As a car owner and driver…

As a car owner and driver for over 30 years, and an avid road cyclist who uses our public infrastructure to ride across the GTA, I am opposed to this Bill 212 as conceived. The issue at stake is not one of "saving time," but of the right to movement in safety, and safe passage, for people who choose to get around on bikes.

As a driver, I do not feel attacked or inconvenienced by protected bike lanes. On roads without dedicated lanes, I *always* move over if I see someone on a bike in a lane of traffic. Why? Because sometimes, I am a driver; at other times, I am that cyclist on the street. I would like everyone to be able to get on a bike and arrive safely, and alive, at their destination.

Cities are constantly growing, and we need more patience, not road rage, on the streets. Cycling is a legitimate mode of transportation, but one that is at a disadvantage when sharing unprotected space with motor vehicles. Please think of the lives of cyclists using our roads, some of which may even be your friends, family, and yes, even political supporters of the Conservative party. This bill is not an example of good governance.