Sharing the road and being aware of what's around you are important skills to have on the road. To that end, the Port Alberni RCMP, the City of Port Alberni and Canadian Tire are hosting "Sharing the Road" at Spirit Square at Harbour Quay on Saturday, Sept. 27 from 1-3 p.m.
Every day motorists encounter a number of different modes of transportation on local roads, including cyclists, motorized wheelchairs and scooters, and pedestrians, and each year crashes occur between them which causes property damage and injury to those involved.
"The aim of this public event is to support each road user and encourage them to safely travel with other road users," said Inspector Mac Richards of the Port Alberni RCMP, adding that "road safety is a priority for the detachment and we look forward to participating in this event so we can engage members of our community in discussions that promote traveling safely and legally on our local streets."
The free event is one for all ages, and everyone who walks, cycles, or travels on the roadways. For young children who cycle, a bicycle skills course will be set up to help them navigate the roads safely, and encourage them to wear helmets properly and keep up the maintenance on their bikes. Canadian Tire will run the skills course and have a mechanic onsite to inspect the kids’ bikes, while Sgt. Safety Bear and Daren the Lion will be on hand to watch the fun and hand out some goodies. Information booths by the RCMP and ICBC will provide safety information and products that will assist all road users in staying safe.
The City of Port Alberni will be on hand to share information about their active transportation plan, which among other things includes the concept of bike lanes in the community.
"The City has just recently completed an Active Transportation Plan which identifies a number of ways we can improve and enhance cycling in Port Alberni. Through public engagement events like this and investments in our infrastructure over time, we can foster a bicycle, pedestrian and vehicle-friendly city," said Port Alberni Mayor John Douglas.
Representatives from The Comfort Zone will be also on site to provide free maintenance checks for motorized scooter and wheelchair users, and they will have a variety of safety items on display that promote greater visibility for these users.
There will be a number of draws for bike helmets; a gift certificate for use at Canadian Tire to purchase additional safety items; and a raffle to win a bike! The RCMP Community Policing Office will add to the festivities by hosting an open house for the community, where they will offer crime prevention information and cake for all!
The event will run from 1-3 p.m. in the Spirit Square in the Harbour Quay on Saturday.