A new group is forming in Chilliwack for those interested in a car-free lifestyle, and it kicks off with its first two meetings on February 27 and March 27 from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Chilliwack Public Library (45860 First Ave). Organized by Jane Bicycle (yes, that's really her name), the group aims to explore what it means to navigate the city without a personal vehicle—and it's about much more than just adding bike lanes.
The gatherings will be informal, allowing topics to emerge naturally based on the interests and experiences of those who attend. Think of it as a mix between a community brainstorm and a knowledge-sharing session. Some of the potential discussions include:
Jane envisions a welcoming, flexible format where people can share their own experiences, troubleshoot commuting challenges, and even lead mini-presentations on helpful topics. If nothing else, it’s a great chance to meet like-minded people who are also trying to get around town without a car.
When people hear 'car-free,' the first thing that comes to mind is often bike lanes, but this conversation is about a lot more than just infrastructure. Going car-free means rethinking how we move through our city and what kind of options exist for different lifestyles.
For some, it's about affordability. Owning a car is expensive, with insurance, gas, and maintenance quickly adding up. For others, it's about sustainability, reducing emissions, and making our communities more pedestrian-friendly. And for many, it’s about health—walking, biking, and taking transit naturally builds movement into your day.
This isn’t just for hardcore cyclists or people who have already ditched their vehicles. If you’re even a little curious about how to drive less, this is for you. Maybe you want to take the bus more often but aren’t sure how to navigate the routes. Maybe you’re considering an e-bike for short trips. Or maybe you’re just wondering if a car-free lifestyle is even possible in Chilliwack. This group is the place to ask questions, share ideas, and find solutions that work in a real-world setting.
Chilliwack may not have the same urban density as Vancouver, but interest in alternative transportation is growing. With transit improvements, better bike infrastructure, and changing attitudes toward commuting, more people are exploring ways to reduce their reliance on cars. This group is a chance to be part of that conversation—right from the start.
If you’re interested in attending, just show up at the Chilliwack Public Library on February 27 or March 27. No registration is required. For more details or to reach out with questions, you can email Jane directly. Let’s start the conversation about a more walkable, rideable, and accessible Chilliwack!
