I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong disapproval of the proposal to override municipal decision making regarding the addition or removal of bike lanes. As someone who both drives a car and occasionally bicycles to work, I consider bike lanes a very important infrastructure for rider safety and for driver awareness and security. As a driver I would not want to be in a position of putting a cyclist at risk and as a rider I am always aware of the dangers of riding when there are no bike lanes available. By having clear and separate, well-marked lanes, everyone knows where they should be and how to behave.

In my view, the Ford government is stirring up sentiment about an issue that has a clear path forward. Increased bicycle infrastructure reduces cars on roads and in most cases is quite compatible with driver needs. In those rare cases where it is not the case, municipalities are best positioned to make those decisions in consultation with residents.