On Friday the NCC announced the creation of a "Park and Cycle" project for commuters in the Ottawa-Gatineau region. The idea is that people would drive part way to work, park their cars, and cycle the remaining distance. Initially, the project will operate with 10 parking lots with a total of 360 spaces. (see the link below for a map with the parking lots).

This sounds like a great idea for people living in Ottawa and Gatineau’s far-flung suburbs. It means that commuters who live in the region’s outer edges will now be able to cycle to work without having the pedal long distances that may be impractical for many individuals. If the idea catches on, it could eventually reduce the number of cars in the downtown core. It would also help commuters avoid heavy traffic and save money that would otherwise be spent on gas and parking fees. On top of all this, it would provide them with a daily dose of physical activity.

The problem with the project is that it only has a total 360 parking spaces, and some of the parking lots are close enough to downtown that it would be necessary to drive through a lot of heavy traffic just to get to them. However, the "Park and Cycle" scheme is currently a pilot project. If it is successful, presumably it will be expanded with additional parking lots and spaces.

Click here for a map with the location of the 10 parking lots.

Click here for the NCC news release about the project.