Central Valley Greenway

In 2001 BEST won the first annual $1 million VanCity Award for our innovative Central Valley Greenway project. The Central Valley Greenway is a proposed 22 km multi-use pathway linking the False Creek Seawall in Vancouver, through Burnaby’s Central Valley, out to the Fraser River in New Westminster.  This award has allowed BEST to work with regional, municipal and other NGO partners to realize this dream of a first class facility for non-motorized transportation connecting east-west through the Lower Mainland. Creating greenways in urban areas is critical to the conservation of the natural environment. By linking parks, natural areas and green space to improve wildlife habitat, increase natural diversity, and restore waterways, greenways are a means to connect the natural environment to everyday life in the city. In particular, they offer a safe, convenient and fun transportation alternative to the motor vehicle.

Transportation, Policy and Planning

Since 1991, BEST has led the call for dramatic improvements to transportation policy and planning in the greater Vancouver region, and across Canada.  Through policy, consultation, research and communications, BEST pushes for better urban planning, cleaner air, and sustainable, equitable and efficient transportation systems.  BEST’s contributions to transportation policy reform are respected by decision-makers, community leaders, local and regional media, and members of the public. Our positions and presentations are well-prepared, practical, credible and forward thinking.

The City of Vancouver Mayor’s Environmental Award (2004)

BEST was thanked for helping ensure a better future for Vancouver in recognition of BEST’s sustainable transportation programs.

Transportation Policy and Planning

Awarded for our work with the Willingdon Corridor Transportation Management Association (TMA).

Education & Youth by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Best Practices (2000)

Since 1999, BEST’s youth program has worked with schools and young people to change attitudes and circumstances so that youth increasingly walk, cycle, take transit, ‘board, ‘blade or carpool. The purpose of our work in this area is to realize benefits to young people such as improved health by way of decrearsed air pollution and increased active living, and enhanced individual safety through safer streets. BEST’s off ramp project was presented with an award as a Best Practices: , in Vienna.  BEST’s materials, expertise and advice continues to be requested world-wide.