GMF - Q&A with Nicolas Théberge, City of Victoriaville

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^{Mr. Nicholas Théberge}

Nicolas Théberge has been city manager of the City of Victoriaville, Québec, for six years. His municipal expertise, combined with his civil engineering background and business administration studies, have enabled him to undertake a major reform of the municipality’s administration by using an integrated, strategic approach to development. More than ever, the municipal organization is geared toward the needs of citizens.

The city has developed several best practices to encourage its residents to adopt a healthy lifestyle. One such example is the Vélos communautaires program, which encourages residents and tourists to borrow bicycles free of charge. FCM interviewed Mr. Théberge about this innovative municipal initiative.

Can you tell us about your Vélos communautaires program?

The program involves making bicycles available, free-of-charge, for our residents and visitors. These bicycles are given to us by the police or come from residents who want to get rid of bicycles that are in poor condition. The bicycles are given to ParVélo, a not-for-profit organization that helps young people facing difficulties learn a trade that is connected to bike mechanics or painting, and helps them integrate into the community. They refurbish the bikes they are given, and recover parts from others. Next, bikes intended for residents are painted yellow, and a certain number are painted orange for visitors. After that, we make them available at the bike station.

Why did the city decide to implement the Vélos communautaires program?

The program brings together different areas of sustainable development. First, we are giving new life to old equipment, i.e. the bicycles. We are also helping youth integrate into the community through our partnership with ParVélo, and making transportation easier for our residents by providing them with a sustainable and free way to get around. It is also a way to let residents who cannot afford to buy a bicycle to explore the various bike paths that the city has to offer.

How was the program set up?

First of all, we planned the program. Then we signed an agreement with ParVélo, the not-for-profit organization that refurbishes damaged bicycles. The police service also had an important role to play in setting up the program, as it provided us with bicycles that people had handed in. Finally, we developed a communications plan to encourage residents to get involved in the Vélos communautaires program.

What were the costs associated with the program?

Practically none. The program does not have any costs to us because ParVélo is a social reintegration organization funded by government programs. We spend nothing to acquire the bicycles, as they are given to us by the police service. Our staff at the bike station are responsible for the bike loans as part of their daily activities.

What advice would you give to other municipalities looking to start a similar program?

Actions speak louder than words! Don’t hesitate. Get going with the project straight away rather than thinking about statistics or organizing comprehensive studies to justify setting up the project. Often, it is the small projects and the small achievements that are the most cost-effective in the long term.

How is this program unique in Québec and Canada?

The Vélos communautaires program is unique because it was set up within a sustainable development model. The program not only provides a sustainable means of transportation for the whole community, it also promotes the social and professional development of young people in difficulty. It is accessible free-of-charge to all — to people with reduced mobility, low-income families, and visitors. In this way, it promotes a healthy lifestyle and responsible tourism, and at the same time reduces the incidences of bike theft within the city. For more information, visit the City of Victoriaville website (website available in French only).