What is a AAA bicycle facility?

    An All Ages and Abilities (AAA) bicycle facility refers to a type of infrastructure designed to accommodate bicyclists of all ages and skill levels, from children to seniors, and from novice riders to experienced cyclists.

    AAA bicycle facilities provide safe, comfortable, and convenient routes for bicyclists by separating them from motor vehicle traffic or by calming traffic on roads. Examples of AAA bicycle facilities include protected bike lanes, off-street bike paths, and shared-use paths that are physically separated from motor vehicle traffic. These facilities are designed to encourage more people to ride bicycles as a mode of transportation, promote healthy and active lifestyles, and reduce dependence on cars.

    Why is the City implementing AAA active transportation improvements along Chilkoot Way?

    The need for all ages and abilities (AAA) active transportation along Chilkoot Way was first identified in the City of Whitehorse Bicycle Network Plan and then in the AAA Cycling Corridors Conceptual Design process.

    More recently, City Council directed Administration to advance development of all ages and abilities active transportation improvements for Chilkoot Way in the 2022 and 2023 capital budgets.

    What is Quick-Build/Rapid Implementation?

    Quick-Build (also called Rapid Implementation) is a method of building walking and cycling infrastructure in a fast and cost-effective way compared to building permanent traditional infrastructure. Rapid implementation allows infrastructure to be built to meet the urgent needs and demands from the community and respond to climate change. It also allows for more flexible infrastructure that can be quickly adjusted in response to public and stakeholder input. Rapid implementation projects often serve as demonstration pieces or pilot projects that help build confidence and support in potential permanent upgrades.

    Rapid implementation projects:

    • Are typically implemented within the curb to curb width.
    • Use adjustable materials that have relatively low costs compared to typical capital projects.
    • Are designed to be implemented within days, weeks, or months (rather than years).
    • Can be easily modified to respond to issues and user feedback.
    • Can include placemaking elements.
    Quick Build Two-Way Bike Lane (Washington Area Bicyclist Association, 2017) bike lanes | Washington Area Bicyclist Association (waba.org)


    Why is the City using quick-build/rapid implementation methods for Chilkoot Way and not developing permanent improvements now?

    We are using quick-build/rapid implementation techniques to deliver active transportation improvements along Chilkoot Way as they are  quicker, and lower cost compared to traditional methods such as capital infrastructure projects.

    Delivering active transportation improvements along Chilkoot Way using rapid implementation allows us to: 

    • Respond quickly to public demand for active transportation infrastructure improvements.
    • Take urgent action on climate change with climate solutions.
    • Meet mode share and GHG emission targets quicker.
    • Improve safety for all road users.
    • Improve public health.
    • Address existing transportation inequities.
    • Build cost effective infrastructure.
    • Be fiscally responsible.
    • Showcase projects in real-time.
    • Test, experiment, and trial active transportation design solutions to build support and confidence in a design solution prior to committing to permanent improvements.

    The differences between various types of implementation methods are summarized below:

    How can I ask a question or make a suggestion regarding the project?

    If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the project, please use the "Ask a Question" or "Make a Suggestion" tool.

    I am a person with a mobility challenge(s). How will this project impact me?

    The Chilkoot Greenway is designed to the latest accessibility standards to provide equitable access for people of all ages and abilities.

    If you have any comments or concerns about accessibility or how your needs can be accommodated, please get in touch with Project staff at engineering@whitehorse.ca

    How will this project impact active transportation users, including people walking, cycling, and rolling?

    This project will include separated cycling facilities, enhanced signal timing and phasing for pedestrian/cyclist safety, and marked pedestrian and cycling crossings among other active transportation improvements. Check out the project description to learn more.

    How will this project impact transit?

    This project will include new transit stop facilities to bring transit users closer to stores and amenities along Chilkoot Way. Check out the project description to learn more.

    How will this project impact (vehicular) traffic?

    There will be no changes to the function of Chilkoot Way for vehicles and all turning movements will stay the same.

    Traffic delay may increase marginally due to queuing at major access points, in-lane transit stops, and the removal of turning lanes to accesses.

    The speed limit along Chilkoot Way will also be decreased to improve traffic safety for all road users. 

    Signal timing will be optimized at both intersections to improve traffic safety and traffic flow. Dedicated southbound left turn phase for vehicles turning from Two Mile Hill Road to Chilkoot way will be added to reduce traffic delays and improve safety.

    How will this project impact local businesses along the corridor?

    This project will bring more people to businesses along Chilkoot Way.

    Project staff are consulting with local businesses along the corridor to ensure their operational needs are not significantly impacted by the project.