July 19: Maple Ridge shows off its green side

Overnight the rain was heavy at times but the day wasn’t too bad. We were surprised at how hilly Abbotsford was despite all the straight lines on the map. Some people hit their peak speed of the whole trip in the ‘flat’ Fraser Valley. Fort Langley was a pretty spot to regather everyone before crossing the Fraser on the Albion Ferry. We were pleased to see anti-idling signs posted in the ferry lineup area although at least three drivers were too blind to see the sign right beside them.

In Maple Ridge we got to participate in the opening of some new bicycle lanes (the lead construction guy even bicycles to work!). We also met a man who retrofitted his bike with an electric motor and it now helps him get more exercise because it has become his primary transport. Later we visited Molly Energy which received a Gold Spoke Award for promoting bicycle commuting and the former lawcourts which have been retrofitted to LEED Silver standard as the new community safety building. In the evening the kids biked around a course to contribute more kilometers and we all finished off with a swim in the local pool.