I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my opposition to any provincial measures that limit cities’ ability to build bike lanes and make evidence-based transportation decisions.

This approach strips cities of local authority and decision-making, even when projects are supported by data and by the very residents who live in these communities. It will worsen traffic congestion, not reduce it — the government’s own experts have consistently found that bike lanes are not a cause of gridlock.

It will also make roads more dangerous. Protected bike lanes are proven to prevent serious injuries and deaths for everyone — not just people biking, but also those walking and driving. Removing or blocking them increases risk on our roads.

Beyond safety, this policy threatens other community uses of road space that people rely on, including transit priority lanes, safe pedestrian crossings, patios, curbside access, and school streets. These are the kinds of local improvements that make neighbourhoods more livable and vibrant.

Finally, it undermines climate goals and public health by locking our cities into car-dependent street designs. At a time when we need to be supporting cleaner, safer, and more affordable transportation options, this proposal moves Ontario in the wrong direction.

I urge the government to respect municipal authority, uphold evidence-based decision-making, and continue supporting infrastructure that keeps our streets safe and sustainable for everyone.