EVCC Modified Ride Program Rules – June 18, 2020

The Alberta Government has entered Stage 2 and continues to encourage outdoor activities such as cycling as long as distancing and other Covid 19 safety cautions are in place.  Additionally, key cycling organizations such as Alberta Bicycling Association have now implemented more liberal guidelines than before.

As a result, EVCC is relaxing some of the restrictions previously implemented.  We thank all coordinators and riders who have worked with these guidelines since June 1^st.   Members will continue to be required to read and agree with these Updated Rules of the Road each time they sign up for a ride, so please read these carefully.    All riders should recognize that following these rules is no guarantee of not catching Covid19 or any other disease.    

There are two main goals for these rules:

We will continue to monitor the situation over the next few weeks.   Any significant changes will be posted on the website and communicated by e-mail. 

For All Rides

If you are supposed to be in self-isolation or quarantine, or are experiencing potential Covid 19 symptoms such as dry cough, fever, fatigue, or difficulty breathing, DO NOT come for a ride.

If two rides are set up for the same route, they will start at least 30 minutes apart to avoid joining up.

No guests will be allowed at this time – only members can participate.

Coordinators will determine the total number of riders up to the maximum, based on their personal preference and the ride conditions.

Road Rides and Gravel Rides

• 15 or fewer participants per ride, including the coordinator
•  Carpooling is at the discretion of the participants but will not be organized by EVCC.
  
• Maintain at least a 2 metre physical distance from others at all times (as per Alberta Health guidelines) from the time you leave your car until you are back in it again.  Each rider is responsible for deciding how closely they follow another rider based on their assessment of the risk. 
•  All riders should bring a mask, latex or plastic type gloves and hand sanitizer, in case of the need to assist another rider or be assisted.

Urban Rides

• EVCC does not encourage pathway rides on busy sections at this time due to the challenges with maintaining a safe distance while meeting and passing others who may be using the pathway.  
• 15 or fewer participants per ride, including the coordinator
• EVCC also encourages urban rides on city streets at this time, using the same Covid 19 rules as for road rides.   
• Maintain at least a 2 metre physical distance from others at all times (as per Alberta Health guidelines) from the time you leave your car until you are back in it again.  Each rider is responsible for deciding how closely they follow another rider based on their assessment of the risk. 
•  All riders should bring a mask, latex or plastic type gloves and hand sanitizer, in case of the need to assist another rider or be assisted.

Mountain Bike Rides

Mtn bike riders will follow the same rules as road riders, with the following changes or additions:

• When riding in provincial parks, follow all guidelines from Alberta Parks https://albertaparks.ca/covid-19/.   
• 10 or fewer participants including coordinator
• Be careful when meeting or passing another cyclist or pedestrian to allow appropriate distance. 
• Avoid fast or reckless riding where it becomes difficult to follow distancing guidelines. Always ride in control.
• Avoid group bunching at any point and do not stop on the trail where others cannot safely pass you
• Coordinators will avoid posting rides on busy trails and/or at busy times in order to minimize interactions with others.

Thanks to everyone for your assistance in reducing the risk of spreading Covid 19 and helping EVCC to maintain an image as a responsible organization in our communities!  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Maria Saley

President, EVCC