The B.C. government has announced new funding for BikeBC to promote healthy living in communities across the province.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is providing $6 million in funding this year to improve cycling infrastructure like bike lanes, multi-use paths and trails, and cycling and pedestrian bridges.

The funding is part of B.C. on the Move, the Government of B.C.'s 10-year transportation plan.

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone said that applications for this year's BikeBC funding are now open for communities across the province.

"Local governments across the province are incorporating more cycling infrastructure into their community plans, and by doubling our funding in the BikeBC program, we're enabling municipalities of all sizes to encourage and promote active lifestyles and viable transportation options for B.C. families,” said Todd.

BikeBC is the province's cost-sharing program to help communities fund projects for cycling and walking, to promote healthy living, recreation, and tourism.

In the past three years, B.C. on the Move has committed $18 million to the BikeBC Program.

The program provided $6.14 million for 26 projects in 25 communities throughout the province, last year alone.

The province itself has also been pushing cycling.

Since 2001, the B.C. government has committed more than $160 million for cycling infrastructure, creating new bicycle lanes and trails in over 100 communities throughout the province.

Besides the health benefits of cycling, the provincial Climate Leadership team has recommended that government support the increased use of public transit and other mobility options, like cycling and walking, which reduce GHG emissions.

To be considered for funding, local governments must describe how the projects benefit their communities and how they contribute to increased physical activity and healthy living, as part of their active community plans.

The ministry will also be looking at how a project can increase tourism cycling.

The deadline for local governments to apply is April 8, 2016, and the application can be filled out online.

If communities have questions, they can contact the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.