The Government of B.C. is investing millions into active transportation across the province, with 80 projects set to receive a grant.

The province explains the financial injection of $24 million will “help local governments plan and build improved connections to work, school and recreational centres, and create infrastructure in communities to support active modes of transportation.”

The province says improvements for cyclists and pedestrians will include extended sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian crossings, and boulevard upgrades.

“People are choosing to walk, run, and cycle more each year. Our support means communities can think bigger when tackling transportation challenges and providing more options for people to get around,” said Dan Coulter, minister of state for infrastructure and transit, Monday.

In the Lower Mainland, the funding will go towards projects in Chilliwack, Port Coquitlam, Richmond, New Westminster, Vancouver, and Delta.

The grants are part of the provincial Active Transportation Infrastructure Grant program, the province adds. It will provide cost-sharing investments to local and regional governments of as much as $500,000 for infrastructure projects, and as much as $50,000 to develop active transportation network plans.