I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 212, which would grant the provincial government the authority to remove bike lanes in Toronto. This legislation represents an unnecessary and costly jurisdictional overreach, threatening the safety and sustainability of transportation in our city.

Bike lanes are essential infrastructure for modern cities. They provide safer commuting options, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and alleviate congestion on roads and public transit. Evidence shows that bike lanes foster economic growth by attracting businesses and encouraging active transportation. Removing these lanes would undermine these benefits, making Toronto less safe and less sustainable.

Contrary to the claim that only 1.2% of Torontonians bike to work, more recent and accurate data tell a different story. Based on the 2021 census, the cycling commute mode share in Toronto was closer to 2%, and in areas with established bike lanes, it reached as high as 10%. A 2019 City-commissioned poll reported that nearly 9.8% of people use a bike to get to work. Furthermore, Toronto’s Bike Share data demonstrates explosive growth, with trips along targeted corridors like Bloor, Yonge, and University increasing by over 120% since 2020. This growth indicates a rising demand for bike lanes, not a justification for their removal.

The financial implications of this legislation are staggering. Allocating millions of taxpayer dollars to remove existing bike lanes—essential infrastructure for thousands of residents—contradicts responsible fiscal management. These funds could instead address pressing urban challenges such as housing affordability, transit improvements, or public health.

Beyond its financial and environmental ramifications, Bill 212 also constitutes a jurisdictional overreach. Decisions about Toronto’s local infrastructure should be made by Toronto City Council, which is best positioned to respond to the needs of its residents. Stripping the city of its autonomy undermines democratic processes and sets a concerning precedent for provincial interference in municipal governance.

Bike lanes save lives, reduce emissions, and contribute to a vibrant, healthy city. I urge you to reconsider Bill 212 and instead support initiatives that expand, rather than dismantle, active transportation networks.

On a personal note, bike lanes have made me feel safer as a woman cycling in Toronto. I have had multiple instances of aggressive drivers threatening me with violence or making lewd suggestions. The bike lanes provide an easy route for me to get away quickly from these aggressive drivers. I would encourage you to use an equity lens when considering this bill. Many of us cannot afford cars and rely on boke lanes to keep us safe in a myriad of ways. Removing them will be detrimental to the safety of so many Torontonians.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.