I am writing to you as a…

I urge the Environmental Registry of Ontario to take strong action in support of expanding bike lane networks across Ontario by stopping the "Framework for bike lanes that require removal of a traffic lane" of Bill 212 - Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024. This framework will pause and damage the province's efforts to implement a low-cost, highly effective mobility solution that has been particularly effective in Toronto, Ontario's largest urban center. Toronto, Ontario, and Canada are all at a critical juncture, and investing in safe, accessible bike infrastructure is essential for the health, safety, and well-being of our communities, as well as for addressing the city’s pressing environmental and transportation challenges. In this comment, I provide evidence-based arguments against the argument that bike lanes increase congestion, and that their implementation should be reviewed in major arteries.

Bike lanes are not just a matter of convenience; they are vital for many residents who rely on affordable transportation options. Delivery drivers, including those in food and courier services, as well as individuals who simply cannot afford vehicles due to the high cost of living, depend on both public transportation and bike lanes to move around the city. The rising cost of living has made car ownership unattainable for many, further highlighting the need for equitable, accessible alternatives like cycling infrastructure.

We must also recognize that traffic congestion is self-perpetuating. More cars on the road lead to more traffic. It’s a cycle that anyone who takes a moment to reflect on the situation would easily understand. Research on mobility and sustainability has thoroughly demonstrated that the only solution to congestion is providing viable alternatives to driving. Expanding bike lanes offers an opportunity to break this cycle by encouraging more people to use alternative modes of transport, thereby reducing overall congestion and improving the flow of traffic for everyone.

This legislation acts contrary to the evidence and knowledge on sustainable and safe urban mobility (see links to academic research on the topic as supporting links). Bike lanes are a practical, immediate step that can provide tangible benefits for Ontario residents. Avoiding the construction of bicycle lanes on major roads will only reduce the efficiency of the cycling network by increasing the distance needed for cyclists to travel to their destinations. Moreover, this legislation will perpetuate road designs that lead to increased air pollution, GHG emissions, and reduced safety for ALL road users. Complete street redesigns, which have been implemented in several major roads in Toronto, are a proven way to concurrently address environmental pressures, safety, and congestion for all road users. This program should not be hampered by provincial legislation that pauses redesigns and progress in the most valuable corridors of Ontario cities, and Toronto in particular.