I absolutely object to the…

I absolutely object to the proposal. Most specifically: "Prescribed municipalities would be required to seek provincial approval to allow for the implementation of new bicycle lanes (“bike lanes”) that require the removal of an existing lane of traffic" and "… municipalities to submit information about existing bike lanes on municipal roads where an existing vehicle lane was removed.”

The assumption that bike lanes lead to traffic congestion is political rhetoric and unsupported by facts and data. There are studies that demonstrate the opposite is true. To state the obvious, what causes traffic congestion and gridlock is the volume of cars on the roads. We will not solve it by making other modes of transportation less available.

My own transportation looks like this: I drive, I take the bus, I ride my bike, and I walk. Every trip is a conscious choice and depends on many variables: distance, weather, route, purpose of the trip, etc. When I choose to take the bus, ride or walk; there is one less car on the road contributing to the traffic problem. The more safe and accessible routes I have available to me, the less I am contributing to the traffic problems. Similarly, if I and others don’t feel safe on our bikes, then that translates to more traffic. Better bike infrastructure = less traffic congestion.

I vehemently object to the implications of the statement: “The Government of Ontario recognizes that accidents and lane closures can worsen traffic congestion and impact the quality of life of Ontarians.” As above, I do not accept that creating safe cycling routes worsens traffic congestion. Accidents caused by unsafe infrastructure surely does “impacts the quality of life of Ontarians”, and I do not accept that my government would reduce the safety of one of the most affordable, healthy and environmentally friendly modes of transportation.

The possibility of existing bike lanes being removed has been raised. I can think of no greater irresponsible mis-use of taxpayer dollars. My municipal has the authority to understand community needs and priorities. I will not accept the provincial government getting involved in this way.