Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?
Yes – I did when I was a Councillor 2001-04, and would do so again if elected. Would need increased budget fro cycling, and likely to need so changes to road rules esp. re right of way.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider?
No – I’m strong on this one – I survived a major bike accident with no head injury because of my helmet. I never ride without one. My kids have it as a habit.
Would you give preference to establishing a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining curbside parking for cars?
Yes – and similarly for bus lanes.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles) to enable 'slow' cyclists ( e.g. thee elderly) to take up utility cycling.
I’m all for shared pathways if they are wide enough. But for existing footpaths we’d need to do some work on this one. We would need to stop people backing out of driveways.
Would you actively work to set up a campaign to educate the pubic about and promote the types of bicycles and technologies appropriate to utility cycling?
Again need to think about this one. There are hundreds of people in Chch who have mountain bikes that they use in the weekends, but do not use for commuting. Getting them commuting would be a start – and I wouldn’t want to suggest they invest in another bike just for commuting.
For those who don’t already own a bike providing some alternative designs is a good idea – I like the Danish bikes that are step-through with baskets and luggage trailers.
Would you lobby for the installation of bike racks on ALL public transport vehicles?
Yes – I have and I will. A year ago I brought photos (see attached) back from the USA where I used bike racks on buses easily – I sent them to ECan and others and this stopped them using liability as a barrier for bike racks – I argued that if litigious USA can use bike racks so can we. So we now have 6 in Chch for a trial – with that number not a realistic trial – but at least a first step.
The design of the bus exchange has also been a reason for not putting racks on buses – so we need to make sure the new bus exchange has enough room for buses WITH racks on the front.
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future?
Yes I do and have all my life - I have a mountain bike I use for everything. Have slicks on it for commuting. Its 10km for me into the city so my back appreciates the suspension, even on the roads
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Why? / Why not?
Yes – especially around their neighbourhoods.
To help this I’d like to bring in 40kph zones on all local streets. (or even 30kph). It’s been done in Charlestown in Chch already.
And why – I would like cycling in Chch to become a lifelong transport choice where safety is not used as an excuse.
Chrissie Williams
Back to the Candidates List