As someone who cycles to…

As someone who cycles to work in downtown Toronto year-round I have experienced first hand the increased level of safety, comfort, and ease that has come with the installation of bike lanes across the city over the past five years. More importantly, I know of many young families who commute via bicycle who take their children to day care or to school on their bikes and currently feel very safe to do so. I would hope that these bike lanes be protected for the safety of those who live in the neighbourhoods in Toronto, and to allow them to get around the city in a fast, affordable, and low-carbon manner.

It would be short sighted to remove existing bike lanes and to deny the installation of future bike as ridership is growing significantly every year.

Given the level of red tape and regulation already bogging down all infrastructure projects, I also believe it would be detrimental to mandate another level of approvals and data collection. We need to be moving in the opposite direction where we streamline regulation so things can actually get done in this city.

I would also question what authority the province has over roads which are, as stated in the bill, municipally operated. The people of the city should be given autonomy over the roads and streets that we live on and use, and this should not be compromised for those who are visiting the city who are frustrated with traffic.

Please consider withdrawing this bill.