Calgary city council's most vocal cycle track opponent appointed to bikeways committee

The most vocal opponent of cycling on Calgary's city council has been appointed to the city's Pathways and Bikeways Project Steering Committee. 

Coun. Sean Chu will be filling a seat left vacant by former councillor Brian Pincott. 

Chu has been a vocal opponent against cycle tracks in Calgary for years, and once described the construction of a proposed bike lane as "madness."

'It's all about common sense,' says Chu

But, Chu said his position on the council won't necessarily mean no new cycling facilities for the city in the future.

"It's all about common sense. I didn't say no cycling. I actually think the pathway in some places makes sense. I proposed many different things. I said, share a sidewalk. City administration told me that it cannot happen. A month later they put it right in front of City Hall," Chu said.

The councillor said his election to the committee was contested, and described it as a "tough fight," but he looks forward to being what he describes as a common-sense voice.

"Being elected by my colleagues to be on this steering committee, I think the mandate is that, Sean Chu, you have a critical eye on this. Please, look after this. Make sure it makes sense."

Mayor Naheed Nenshi said it's important for committees to include a broad range of perspectives. 

"I find that it can actually be super helpful for a member of council to get in and ask questions, and perhaps realize they're not that skeptical after all," the mayor said. 

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