The new Port Mann bridge cycling connection opens up the city of Surrey to cyclists but does little to improve transportation options for Coquitlam cyclists, who will still find it difficult to access the new bridge path.
That's the conclusion of HUB Cycling, which posted comments and pictures of the route on its Facebook page after the new path opened Wednesday, Canada Day.
"In Coquitlam, issues related to signage, ongoing construction and the lack of sufficient protected or separated bike lanes present a challenge to all but those who are comfortable cycling alongside fast-moving traffic," the group reports.
The group says the crossing itself is a good investment but without improved signage and safe connections, there could be more danger for cyclists and pedestrians.
HUB is calling for the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to consult with stakeholders for new way finding and signage. It also wants to see cycling and pedestrian counts on the bridge to monitor use and improved connections to Coquitlam via United Boulevard from Fawcett to King Edward (westbound) and northbound to Lougheed Highway via United Boulevard and a safer connection to and from Port Coquitlam and Pitt Meadows via the Mary Hill Bypass and the Traboulay PoCo Trail.
The mayor of Coquitlam, who was one of the first to use the new path, agreed that signage and access is poor, although he said the path itself is safe and enjoyable for those who can reach it.
While the city is looking at improved connections, the route is a regional one, Stewart said, and improvements could have been made had the recent transit and transportation referendum been passed.
"The regional structure to connect the bike path has just been neutered," Stewart said.
In the meantime, for those interested in exploring the new multi-use path, it's best to start and end the trip in Surrey, because the two way trip is more suitable for all ages and abilities, according to HUB. Details and a map are available at HUB on Facebook.
In Coquitlam, the three-metre wide barrier-separated path starts at Fawcett Road and United Boulevard.
