Bill 212, known as the …

Bill 212, known as the "Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act," has raised significant concerns regarding its potential to worsen traffic congestion and incur high costs. Here’s a breakdown of why this legislation could have these negative impacts:

Increased Congestion
1. Removal of Bike Lanes: One of the key components of Bill 212 is the removal of bike lanes on major roads. This decision is expected to lead to more cars on the road, as fewer people will feel safe cycling. Studies indicate that bike lanes help reduce overall vehicle congestion by encouraging cycling and walking, which in turn decreases the number of cars on the road.

2. School Traffic: A substantial portion of morning rush hour congestion is attributed to school drop-offs. By discouraging active transportation options like biking, Bill 212 could exacerbate this issue, leading to even more vehicles on the roads during peak times.

High Costs
1. Financial Implications: The city of Toronto has estimated that dismantling existing bike lanes could cost taxpayers at least **$48 million**. This includes not only the loss of previous investments in bike infrastructure but also the costs associated with redesigning streets and managing construction disruptions.

2. Long-Term Inefficiencies: The removal of bike lanes is unlikely to yield significant long-term benefits for car travel times. In fact, the construction phase alone could worsen traffic conditions for months, leading to increased frustration and delays for drivers.

Environmental and Health Concerns
Beyond congestion and costs, the bill could also hinder efforts to promote healthier, more sustainable transportation options. The removal of bike lanes may lead to higher greenhouse gas emissions, as more people revert to driving instead of cycling or walking. This contradicts broader goals of reducing pollution and improving public health.

In summary, Bill 212 is poised to create a cycle of increased congestion and financial burden while undermining efforts to promote sustainable transportation.