As a driver and a cyclist,…

As a driver and a cyclist, this legislation gives me pause. Adding separated bike lanes is not only safer for cyclists, but it improves traffic flow by moving cyclists out of the curb lane, allowing cars to travel at speed. There are already enough municipal government oversights to ensure that new bike lanes that reduce the number of lanes on the road are not detrimentally affecting gridlock. Adding ministerial approval is an overreach and sends the message that the ministry and government do not want more bike lanes. Improving cycling infrastructure WILL reduce gridlock, because with more safe bike lanes more people will choose to travel this way. Our roads are full enough with cars. Focus on encouraging people to get out of their cars and into public transit and cycling. Follow London's example and introduce congestion charges to travel into city downtowns, which will at least encourage car pooling. These are actions that reduce gridlock.