Lessons from the Dutch by Roy Symons and Andrew Monson

This presentation will explore innovative Dutch street design principles that are either emerging in Canada or have potential. Drawing from the success of continuous sidewalks and protected bike paths implemented in Nanaimo—an initiative led by Roy Symons—this session will delve into what’s next.

Intrigued by what more could be learned from the Netherlands, Roy has undertaken several extended research trips to the country, cycling extensively to understand firsthand what makes it the global leader in cycling infrastructure and mode share. His observations and insights from the first of those trips are captured in his book Fietspad, and he will share many of the lessons learned during this session.

While Nanaimo helped advance continuous sidewalks in British Columbia, it was not the first in Canada to implement them. That distinction may belong to the Town of Canmore, where Dutch-inspired street design has been quietly but meaningfully taking hold. Andrew Monson will present to highlight the ongoing transformation in Canmore, showcasing recent projects that reflect a growing embrace of Dutch design thinking.

Roy Symons P.Eng. is a Sustainable Transportation Specialist for ISL based in Burnaby, BC but supporting ISL projects across Western Canada. He is passionate about Dutch design and its potential in Canada and is actively pursuing many such innovations on his projects today as well as trying to spread this knowledge in the industry through his Lessons from the Dutch.

Andrew Monson, P.Eng. is a transportation engineer with over a decade of experience designing safe, efficient, and comfortable streets and active transportation facilities. Since his move from Calgary to Canmore five years ago, he’s acquired several bikes and a deeper appreciation for the perks of mountain town living. His favorite projects are the ones that see goat trail desire lines replaced with comfortable facilities and have a meaningful impact on his community.