The bicycle, solution and destination
Vélo Québec Association is recognized by the government as a national recreation organization, through its role in the promotion and development of recreational cycling. But cycling is much more than a hobby: it plays a key role in sustainable mobility, reducing congestion and developing tourism in Quebec. Its benefits are recognized by a wide range of stakeholders, from municipalities to public health professionals to road safety experts. This growing interest in cycling across all regions of Quebec was highlighted at our professional symposium in October 2024, which brought together some 300 professionals from 16 regions of Quebec to discuss best practices.
Behind the scenes
2024 was an exceptional year on the cycling infrastructure development front: the number of municipalities and organisations supported by our consulting service almost doubled during the year. We have been able to provide active transportation and school safety plans, or recommendations on recreational trails to some forty municipalities and organizations, in addition to offering professional training to more than 50 people who will be able to apply the best practices for pedestrian and cyclist development in their communities.
The Route verte and cycling tourism are gaining momentum!
Vélo Québec is also the prime contractor for the Route verte, the largest cycling route in North America. And in this regard, 2024 was also an excellent year, with the announcement by the Government of Quebec of the homologation of an additional 130 km route for the Route verte in Charlevoix. A great gift to give her on the eve of her 30th birthday! The year 2024 also marks the end of our work with tourism stakeholders in Quebec. At the end of this extensive consultation tour, which brought together more than 520 partners, we are proud to share a Roadmap for the Development of Cycling Tourism 2025-2030. The common vision that emerges, and the concrete actions that have been identified, will help develop the full potential of the cycling tourism offer in Quebec!
Cycling is evolving, Vélo Québec is spreading the good news!
Sharing knowledge and new trends is also part of our organization’s mission. That’s why, in 2024, we wanted to introduce Quebec households to cargo bikes. This great mobility tool for families was put forward through a video campaign focused on the testimony of family users, on the web and in social and traditional media, where it aroused great interest.
Cycling Month finally officially recognised
2024 also saw the National Assembly officially proclaim the month of May as Bicycle Month in Quebec. A great recognition for all the municipalities and organizations that have been taking advantage of the beautiful days of May for several years to encourage their population or their clientele to get back in the saddle! This great enthusiasm was supported by our usual Bike Month Challenge and the Bike You Can Bike promotional campaign!featuring several Quebecers who use bicycles despite certain constraints.
The annual report of Vélo Québec Association will be released at the next Annual General Meeting to be held on April 29. It will allow us to better appreciate the work accomplished by our team of enthusiasts over the past year.
To register for the Annual General Meeting: Annual General Meeting | Vélo Québec
To become a member: Individual and family membership | Vélo Québec
Why become a member: By becoming a member of our association, you encourage Vélo Québec in the pursuit of its mission. In particular, you will contribute to the development of the Route verte, the creation of safety campaigns and education programmes as well as advocacy actions with decision-makers, all in the interest of cyclists. You are taking concrete action in favour of cycling!