I am commenting as a…

I am commenting as a concerned Ontarian living in a rural area who commutes by car to an urban setting and as an avid cyclist. I want to express my strong opposition to any potential legislation that would limit my municipality's ability to effectively plan and implement safe cycling infrastructure, particularly bike lanes by adding more red tape.

Introducing provincial oversight into the approval process for bike lanes would only add unnecessary bureaucracy, exacerbating the delays that already plague many projects in our city. Instead of streamlining these initiatives, we risk creating further obstacles that hinder our ability to develop the safe, accessible cycling infrastructure our community desperately needs.

We are currently facing a climate crisis, and it is crucial for all levels of government to seize every opportunity to promote safe, healthy, and environmentally friendly modes of transportation. Bike lanes not only encourage cycling as a viable alternative to driving, but they also enhance the safety of all road users. Personally, I feel safer biking on roads with designated bike lanes, and I believe drivers also feel more secure knowing there are clear, marked spaces for cyclists. Prioritizing bike lanes, even at the expense of some car lanes, is a step toward fostering a more sustainable and livable community.

I urge you to dismiss this proposal and any future proposals that would undermine my local government's ability to make decisions regarding cycling infrastructure.