I strongly oppose Ontario…

I strongly oppose Ontario Bill 212 – Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024, as it could severely limit the development of much-needed bike lanes by creating unnecessary barriers to removing traffic lanes. This approach is counterproductive and ignores the proven benefits of well-designed cycling infrastructure in reducing overall traffic congestion, improving road safety, and fostering more sustainable urban environments.

Evidence from cities around the world highlights the positive impact of bike lanes on traffic efficiency and public safety. For example, a study conducted by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) found that cities with comprehensive cycling networks, such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam, experience lower levels of traffic congestion because more people opt for cycling as a convenient and efficient mode of transport. This shift not only reduces the number of cars on the road but also contributes to smoother traffic flow for those who continue to drive.

Furthermore, in New York City, the installation of protected bike lanes led to a 14% reduction in traffic-related injuries for all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists, according to a report by the New York City Department of Transportation. The same report also highlighted that bike lanes can lead to reduced travel times for vehicles by organizing traffic more effectively, contrary to the belief that they create additional gridlock.

Research from McGill University shows that cities with robust cycling infrastructure, like Montreal, have seen significant public health benefits, including lower air pollution levels and increased physical activity among residents. Encouraging more people to bike, by making streets safer and more accessible for cyclists, is also aligned with Ontario’s climate goals. Transportation is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and shifting a portion of trips to bikes can substantially reduce emissions and contribute to meeting the province’s climate targets.

Ontario should focus on forward-thinking urban planning that promotes multimodal transportation solutions rather than prioritizing single-occupancy vehicles. By limiting bike lane development, Bill 212 risks stalling progress on climate action, public health improvements, and long-term traffic reduction strategies.

Limiting or removing bike lanes would have long-term negative effects on Ontario’s job growth and overall economy.

Loss of Jobs in Infrastructure Development: Investments in cycling infrastructure create jobs in construction, engineering, and urban planning. The construction of bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and other active transportation infrastructure stimulates local economies by providing employment opportunities and generating economic activity. According to the League of American Bicyclists, cycling infrastructure creates 46% more jobs per dollar spent compared to road-only projects. By removing or limiting the expansion of bike lanes, Ontario risks missing out on job creation in this sector.

Negative Impact on Green Jobs and Innovation: As Ontario moves toward a green economy, cycling infrastructure plays a key role in sustainable urban development. The province has the opportunity to be a leader in green transportation solutions by investing in cycling infrastructure, which supports new job opportunities in clean tech, urban mobility, and environmental sectors. A report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) suggests that a shift toward sustainable transportation systems, including cycling infrastructure, can create thousands of green jobs, contributing to long-term economic growth. By restricting bike lane development, Ontario may fall behind other regions that are prioritizing investments in green transportation, limiting its potential to attract businesses and investments focused on sustainability.

Increased Costs of Congestion and Reduced Productivity: Without viable cycling alternatives, more people will rely on cars, exacerbating traffic congestion. According to a C.D. Howe Institute report, traffic congestion already costs the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) an estimated $6 billion per year in lost productivity. Increasing the number of vehicles on the road will only add to these costs, further hampering Ontario’s economic productivity and growth. Encouraging more people to cycle through safe, accessible bike lanes would reduce congestion, improve overall commute times, and increase worker productivity.

Impact on Tourism and Livability:
Cities with bike-friendly infrastructure attract tourism, boosting local economies. According to the European Cyclists' Federation, cycling tourism generates billions of dollars globally every year. Ontario, with its natural beauty and urban attractions, could attract more cycling tourists with enhanced bike infrastructure.

Harmful Effects on Ontario’s Economy and Job Growth
Removing bike lanes would make Ontario’s cities less attractive to both residents and tourists, negatively affecting local businesses and reducing the province’s overall competitiveness as a livable and appealing destination.

In conclusion, the framework proposed in Bill 212 is a step backward. Instead of prioritizing car-centric policies, Ontario should embrace more sustainable and equitable transportation systems that include well-planned bike lanes, which have been shown to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, and support a healthier environment.