ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

Date: March 18, 1999
Author/Local: Ian Adam/7331
RTS No. 622

CC File No. 5551

Council: March 30, 1999

TO:	Vancouver City Council
FROM:	General Manager of Engineering Services, in consultation with the Director of City Plans
SUBJECT:	A New Vision for Urban Transportation

RECOMMENDATION

A. THAT the City of Vancouver endorse the principles embodied in the Transportation Association of Canada document, “A New Vision for Urban Transportation”.

B. THAT this endorsement be forwarded to the Transportation Association of Canada for its information.

COUNCIL POLICY

Council approved the Vancouver Transportation Plan on May 27, 1997.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to support the principles of the Transportation Association of Canada’s (TAC) Vision for Urban Transportation, which is consistent with the City’s Transportation Plan.

DISCUSSION

The Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) is a national association with over 500 members, that includes all levels of government, and is recognized as a leader in research, establishing standards, and opening communications on transportation issues. The City has participated in TAC and a number of its Councils and Committees for many years.

In 1993, TAC produced a document entitled, “A New Vision for Urban Transportation”, which contains 13 principles to guide decision-making. In February, 1999, the TAC Urban Transportation Council forwarded a new paper entitled, “Achieving Livable Cities”, and has asked that municipalities endorse the original Vision principles.

In reviewing these principles, they appear to be closely aligned with Council policy as expressed in the Transportation Plan. For example, the principles give priority to walking, cycling and higher quality transit. They recognize a balanced role for automobiles, and the need for efficient goods movement. They also recognize the roles of land-use policy, protecting the environment, full accessibility, and adequate financing.

The principles have been endorsed by the GVRD and by a number of the municipalities across Canada. Because the principles are consistent with the City Transportation Plan, it is recommended that Council endorse them, and that this endorsement be forwarded to TAC for their information.

* * * * *

(c) 1998 City of Vancouver