Bill (Biagio) Marra
2475 Buckingham Drive
Phone: (519) 890-1000
Email: info@billmarra.ca
Website: www.billmarra.ca
1) What are your views on cycling in Windsor?
I am very pleased that we have made some progress in our community towards creating a more bike friendly community. I have three children, two of which ride their bikes regularly so even as a parent this is an important issue. The bike lanes have for the most part been well received by the community although there is still a need for public education, particularly for drivers who I have often seen drive into bike lanes. I completely appreciate that cycling means something different to many citizens. For some, it is an important form of exercise, others it is a form recreation and for many, a necessary mode of transportation. The common denominator is that cycling contributes towards the quality of life for our community.
2) Do you own a bike? How often do you ride it?
I own a bike although I use it approximately one dozen times annually.
3) Recent research shows that 65% of Windsorites have ridden a bike in the last year. What do you think can be done to get more Windsorites cycling more often?
I am not well versed on the research associated with cycling. However, I suspect that in order to create greater opportunities for citizens to cycle, the role of council would be focused on ensuring safe cycling corridors and similar strategies that encourage the use of cycling. Beyond safety, we then need to ensure that it is convenient as it relates to cycling routes, bicycle storage and as an adjunct to other modes of public transportation such as Transit.
4) What do you think needs to be done to make Windsor more bicycle friendly?
Given my lack of direct experience with cycling, I believe that my responses in the previous questions touch upon some areas that require attention in order to improve cycling opportunities in a more “friendly” manner. This is really a role for the advocacy committee to undertake and make well researched and evidenced based recommendations to City Council.
5) What are your views on enforcing cycling laws in Windsor?
Enforcement of cycling laws and by-laws should be treated no differently than any other legislation. There should be fair and equitable enforcement of the rules.
6) Are you willing to make a commitment to bike to at least 4 city council meetings per year, to lead by example?
I will absolutely commit to riding my bicycle to at least 4 council meetings per year from Ward 8!
