I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed bill, ERO 019-9266, which seeks to ban bike lanes. This proposal is misguided for several reasons, which I outline below, focusing on its impact on traffic management, quality of life, the economy, and the environment.

1. Traffic Management and Safety
Bike lanes play a critical role in modern urban planning by improving traffic flow and safety for all road users. Numerous studies have shown that dedicated cycling infrastructure reduces collisions between vehicles and cyclists, leading to fewer injuries and fatalities. Without bike lanes, cyclists are forced into mixed traffic, increasing risks for both cyclists and drivers and contributing to congestion as vehicles must navigate unpredictably around cyclists.

In fact, the implementation of bike lanes has been proven to reduce motor vehicle speeds in areas with high pedestrian activity, making streets safer for everyone. Rather than seeing bike lanes as a disruption, they should be regarded as an essential measure to optimize traffic flow and protect vulnerable road users.

2. Quality of Life and Public Health
Encouraging cycling through protected bike lanes has numerous public health benefits. Access to safe cycling routes promotes physical activity, reduces rates of obesity, and lessens the incidence of chronic diseases like cardiovascular ailments and diabetes.

Moreover, bike lanes contribute to a higher quality of urban life by fostering safer streets for pedestrians and creating a more inviting environment for residents. Cities with robust cycling infrastructure often see increased levels of community interaction, social engagement, and a greater sense of belonging among residents.

3. Economic Benefits
Bike lanes are an investment in local economies. A study conducted on Bloor Street in Toronto found that after the installation of bike lanes, retail sales increased by nearly 4.45% compared to streets without bike lanes, demonstrating a direct economic boost for local businesses. This increase in sales was attributed to the improved accessibility and safety for cyclists, which encouraged more people to visit local shops and spend more time in the area.

In addition to increased retail revenue, the study showed that biking infrastructure did not negatively impact vehicle traffic or parking availability in the long term. Instead, it attracted a broader customer base, transforming the area into a more vibrant and economically thriving community. This evidence directly contradicts the notion that bike lanes harm businesses or lead to economic decline.

4. Environmental Benefits
The environmental advantages of cycling infrastructure are undeniable. Transport is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and climate change. Shifting even a portion of daily commutes to bicycles helps to mitigate these issues by reducing car dependency and the associated emissions.

Bike lanes provide an accessible and affordable way to encourage cycling, which has zero carbon emissions and minimal environmental impact. In contrast, banning bike lanes undermines ongoing efforts to combat climate change, directly contradicting sustainability goals and risking the health of our planet for future generations.

The proposed ban on bike lanes is a step backward for Ontario. It prioritizes short-term and narrow-minded interests over the long-term well-being of residents, the economy, and the environment. This bill disregards the overwhelming evidence that bike lanes are crucial to developing safer, healthier, and more prosperous communities.

Ontario should be striving to build inclusive, sustainable cities with diverse transport options. Banning bike lanes is not a solution to our current traffic or urban challenges but a regression that will hinder progress in safety, environmental responsibility, economic growth, and quality of life.

I strongly urge you to reconsider this bill and, instead, invest in safe and inclusive transportation solutions that benefit all Ontarians.