Province Announces Choose How You Move Initiatives

NOTE: A social media version of this release will be available at http://novascotia.ca/news/smr/2013-04-22-How-You-Move/ . Hi-res, downloadable photos and audio clips will be added after the event.

Nova Scotians will have more opportunity to walk, bike, share rides and access public transit because of a new provincial strategy.

Community Services Minister Denise Peterson-Rafuse, on behalf of Energy Minister Charlie Parker, released the province's Choose How You Move Sustainable Transportation Strategy today, April 22, which commits $6 million in funding over the next three years to help communities develop sustainable transportation plans.

"I'm excited to talk about sustainable transportation, and to launch this initiative," said Ms. Peterson-Rafuse. "It is focused on providing all Nova Scotians, including seniors, people with physical disabilities and youth, with more active, sustainable and cost-effective transportation options."

The strategy recognizes that sustainable transportation is a complex issue, and that when we work together, we can accomplish so much more."

The Sustainable Transportation Strategy will help governments, businesses, communities and individuals to develop transportation solutions that result in a healthier and better connected province.

Sustainable transportation includes:

• walking, biking and community transit
• community design
• cleaner vehicle technologies and cleaner, renewable fuels
• energy conservation and efficiency, including carsharing, telecommuting and carpooling.

"There are many people of all ages who don't drive or don't have a vehicle. That is what makes sustainable transportation initiatives extremely important, especially in rural areas where in many cases, it's necessary to travel a substantial distance to access essential services," said Sandra Meister, Community Wheels co-ordinator. "We are pleased government is acknowledging the challenges and finding ways to address them."

The province consulted with, and incorporated feedback, from a number of municipalities, environmental organizations and transit-oriented community groups to design and ensure the strategy is responsive to community needs.

Ms. Peterson-Rafuse also announced the second round of the Nova Scotia Moves Grants program is now open for applications. The deadline is June 22, and successful projects will be announced later this summer. The program is already supporting 28 sustainable transportation initiatives, like Community Wheels, throughout the province.

For more information, visit www.novascotia.ca/sustainabletransportation .