VSP Achieves “Vélosympathique” Silver Certification Amid Controversy
Dimitris Ilias, LJI Journalist
On September 18, 2024, the borough of Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension (VSP) proudly announced its attainment of the Vélosympathique silver certification from Vélo Québec. This distinction recognizes the borough’s success in promoting cycling through a range of initiatives, including the development of extensive bike infrastructure and educational programs. VSP’s commitment to fostering a culture of active mobility is a key reason for this achievement, marking a major step forward for the community’s sustainability goals
What Is Vélosympathique?
The Vélosympathique certification is part of a program launched by Vélo Québec to encourage communities to make cycling a viable and safe option for transportation and leisure. The program offers a multi-tiered certification (bronze, silver, gold, and platinum) that evaluates how well municipalities integrate cycling into urban life. Key factors include the quality of cycling infrastructure, safety measures, public engagement, and educational efforts
VSP earned silver certification on its first attempt, thanks to multiple projects aimed at improving cyclist safety and accessibility. The borough implemented bike lanes on major thoroughfares, such as Avenue Querbes and Rue Villeray, expanded safety features near schools and elderly residences, and launched various cycling education programs. These initiatives align with Quebec’s broader environmental goals under the Plan pour une économie verte 2030, which encourages communities to adopt sustainable transportation alternatives
Growing Dissent
While the Vélosympathique certification celebrates VSP’s commitment to creating a cyclist-friendly community, it has also drawn severe criticism from many residents and business owners. Many argue that the increased focus on bike lanes has led to unwanted side effects, such as traffic congestion and a shortage of parking spaces in areas like Parc-Extension. For businesses, this shift has raised concerns about reduced accessibility for customers who rely on cars
Local residents who oppose the bike paths argue that the implementation process lacked sufficient public consultation. They claim that the focus on cycling has come at the expense of other urban mobility needs, with insufficient consideration for those who depend on cars, particularly for essential services and deliveries
Finding a Balance
The borough’s administration, led by Mayor Laurence Lavigne Lalonde, maintains that the development of bike infrastructure is a necessary step toward building a more sustainable, health-conscious city. “More and more citizens want to use bikes for everyday tasks like going to work or school, and they need to feel safe doing so,” said Lalonde, emphasizing the importance of creating an urban space that benefits cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike.
As VSP continues to promote active transportation, the challenge remains in addressing the concerns of its critics while pursuing its vision of a greener, more livable city. The tension between these competing priorities will likely shape future discussions on urban development and transportation in the borough.
While VSP’s certification as a Vélosympathique community is a landmark achievement, the path forward will require careful consideration of both the benefits of cycling and the needs of all residents
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