Media Advisory - Biking and the Economy of Toronto

Should Toronto embrace this Dutch tradition?

TORONTO, May 27 /CNW/ - Making roadways safer for cyclists has become the topic of debate across Canada. The inherent risks of biking are front and centre in the headlines, following a recent tragedy in Quebec and ongoing debate among Toronto City councillors about bike lanes.

Toronto's Dutch Consulate and the CNBPA (www.cnpba.ca, Canadian Netherlands Business Professionals Association) invite you to explore these issues further with international biking-authority Gil Penalosa. Penalosa is the director of the Toronto based non profit group 8-80 Cities. www.8-80cities.org. "We believe safe walking and cycling infrastructure and vibrant public places are key symptoms of more people-oriented and socially equitable city," says Penalosa.

Penalosa recently helped to revolutionize Colombian capital Bogota, which opened 91 kilometres of car-free city roads on Sundays. After his presentation, a round table will be hosted with him and other bike experts in the city of Toronto, to discuss the increasing popularity of bikes in the city and its effect on the economic development of Toronto and the wellbeing of residents.

    
    When:     Monday, May 31, 2010

    Where:    KPMG, Suite 4600, Bay Adelaide Centre, 333 Bay Street, Toronto

    Time:     6:00 p.m. - Registration, beverages and networking
              7:00 p.m. - Presentation
              9:00 p.m. - More beverages and networking

    Cost:     $15 CNBPA or Eurocit members
              $25 non-members

    Sponsors: KPMG and The Consulate General of The Netherlands
    

For further information: Max van Riel, CNBPA communications division, [email protected]