Greetings, I am writing to…

Greetings,

I am writing to express my vehement opposition to Home Bill 212, the Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024. This bill, which proposes the removal of bike lanes, is an ill-conceived step backwards and counterproductive to the future of sustainable urban development in Ontario.

Key Points of Opposition:

Undermining Public Safety:

Removing bike lanes will put cyclists directly in harm’s way, forcing them to share congested lanes with cars, trucks, and buses. Protected bike lanes have been shown to significantly reduce the number of cyclist injuries and fatalities by providing a safe space for cyclists away from vehicular traffic. Dismantling these lanes will undoubtedly increase the risk of accidents and deaths on our roads.

Contradicts Climate Goals:

Ontario, like the rest of Canada, has committed to reducing its carbon footprint and encouraging environmentally friendly transportation options. Tearing up bike lanes is a direct assault on these goals. Cycling is one of the most effective ways to reduce car dependency, lower carbon emissions, and promote healthier lifestyles. This bill goes against the spirit of climate action and will only lead to increased car use, congestion, and pollution.

Promotes Short-Term Thinking:

Bike lanes are an investment in the long-term future of our cities. While removing lanes may appear to “reduce gridlock” in the short term, it ignores the proven benefits of encouraging cycling as a viable alternative to driving. Cities around the world that have invested in cycling infrastructure—such as Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and even New York—have seen reductions in traffic congestion and improvements in overall transportation efficiency. Ontario must think ahead, not backwards.

Disregards Economic and Health Benefits:

Bike lanes are not just a “nice-to-have”—they are crucial for economic vitality and public health. Studies show that cities with strong cycling infrastructure see an uptick in local commerce as cyclists tend to spend more locally compared to drivers. Additionally, cycling promotes public health, reducing the strain on our healthcare system due to conditions related to inactivity.

A Regressive, Anti-Urban Move:

This bill will have the greatest impact on urban areas like Hamilton and Toronto, where bike lanes are critical for providing transportation options to a wide range of residents, including lower-income individuals who rely on cycling as an affordable mode of transport. Removing bike lanes would disproportionately harm these communities while benefiting only car users, many of whom have other transit options available.

I strongly urge the government to reconsider the damaging implications of Home Bill 212. Instead of ripping up bike lanes, we should be expanding cycling infrastructure and integrating it better with public transportation. Ontario’s future should be focused on building sustainable, safe, and accessible cities for everyone—not turning back the clock.

Thank you for considering my comments.