Winnipeg youth push for safer winter cycling routes

Children and Adults Call for Safer Winter Cycling

Dozens of children and adults gathered at The Forks on Saturday morning to call for safer cycling infrastructure during the winter months.

The group participated in a Polar Bear Kidical Mass, a family-oriented bike ride. This event helps young cyclists practice winter riding skills while highlighting road safety issues. The ride traveled along the Nestaweya River Trail and was led by children as young as five.

“A bunch of kids get to ride with their adults and have fun,” said cycling advocate Libby Weier.

Organizers say the event shows how protected infrastructure can allow even the youngest riders to cycle safely. “It is such a good opportunity for us to show that safe infrastructure means that even kids as young as 5 can lead a whole big group ride and it can be done safely,” said cycling advocate Anna Weier.

For some families, the event was an introduction to winter cycling. “It’s the first time for my kids winter biking. I used to winter bike. But I haven’t had my bike out of the basement for a couple of years. So it’s good to be out there, enjoying fresh air and the river,” said attendee Daniel Simeone.

Advocates also raised concerns about winter maintenance of bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure. Joe Curnow said snowy and uncleared routes make cycling more difficult and less safe. “We need that to be maintained year-round. Right now it’s really hard. It took us a very long time to get to Forks this morning. Because the snow hadn’t been cleared. The sidewalks and the curb cuts, where you have to cross intersections, are very messy,” Curnow said.

Some young riders say protected bike paths make a noticeable difference. “In a lot of places the cars are just going too fast. Especially when I bike to school. But on the bike paths coming to the Forks, I feel safe,” said Noah Simeone.

Curnow added that drivers need to be more aware of cyclists, especially when sharing the road with families. “And when they are close passing, it just makes it really terrifying. Especially when you are riding with your kids,” he said.

Advocates say expanding car-free spaces and maintaining cycling routes year-round would encourage more people to choose biking. “People need to be able to take the means of transportation that are better for them. And cycling is good for our health and it’s good for the environment,” Anna Weier said.

Event Summary