The Sunshine Coast has been a tourist destination for the past 100 years and continues to be a huge attraction for residents in B.C. and beyond. One thing that has evolved is how tourists get here. The days of the Union Steamship are long gone, and most people bring a car when visiting the Sunshine Coast.
How tourists access the Sunshine Coast is continuing to change as cycle touring is increasing in popularity. It is important for all residents to collectively support this evolving mode of transportation that contributes to our economy.
A 2009 study from Destination BC showed that 4.8 per cent of all visitors come to B.C. to participate in some sort of cycling activity. Other studies confirm that cycle tourism is on the rise in North America, and that these cycle tourists contribute to the local economy. A 2006 study of cycling in the Sea to Sky region showed that cycle tourism brought in $10.3 million in spending that year.
The most critical aspect for cycle tours is adequate road infrastructure. Transportation Choices Sunshine Coast (TraC) advocates for improved cycling road infrastructure to local governments and the Ministry of Transportation. TraC also is drafting the Coastal Bike Route. This bike route will show danger areas and recommend the best routes to take while cycling on the Sunshine Coast. Learn more at transportationchoices.ca
Road infrastructure is just one part of welcoming cycle tourists to the Sunshine Coast. Shops, restaurants and hotels have a role as well. For businesses to take advantage of this developing industry, they need to offer facilities for cyclists. It starts with bike parking, which is a clear sign that your business is welcoming to cyclists. Another way to welcome cyclists is by offering a water bottle filling station, or just providing a place for cyclists to sit down and recover for a few minutes.
The cycle tourism market is growing, and Sunshine Coast businesses can serve this market with simple additions to their businesses. These small changes will not only benefit tourists, but also local cyclists. A simple bike rack can support the community and build your business.
The cycling community will be out in full force from May 29 to June 2 for Bike to Work Week, and organizers hope to see strong support from the community as they bring many new cyclists to the road.
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