Whitehorse – Dr Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for Yukon, announced a federal investment of $50,000 to support community-led efforts to study active transportation in two neighbourhoods along the Alaska Highway in Whitehorse. The Alaska Highway divides Whitehorse and creates a barrier to accessing services, community recreational facilities, schools and impacts the movements of residents of all ages. This investment will support an active transportation feasibility study undertaken by the Cycling Association of Yukon and supported by Takhini residents, the Hillcrest Community Association, and the Whitehorse Urban Cycling Coalition.
This feasibility study will inform future decisions on how to increase pedestrian safety along the Alaska Highway in Whitehorse. It will explore design considerations, associated costs, and the benefits the community will experience from building active transportation underpasses in two strategic locations under the highway that are safe, convenient, and accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Funding announced today contributes to Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy by supporting planning and engagement activities that will help expand networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails and pedestrian bridges. By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.
“Our support for this feasibility study will inform the next steps to build a more connected, accessible and safe community in Whitehorse. I want to commend the persistence and dedication of community leaders in working towards a greener and more inclusive community.” Dr Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for Yukon, on behalf of Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities