This proposal is regressive…

This proposal is regressive to important priorities for Ontarians, like affordability, health, and climate. I will briefly address some concerns I have below, as an expert in this field.

1. As the affordability crisis worsens, many people are unable to afford cars. Biking is an accessible and affordable method of transit. By removing bike lanes, the government is demonstrating that they prioritize the needs of car owners over those who ride bikes, who are largely young populations and new Canadians. These groups are already most at risk as a result of the affordability crisis.
2. Air level pollutants from cars are a major public health concern, so doubling down on car based infrastructure commits Ontario to poor air quality around roads that threatens our most vulnerable like children and the elderly.
3. SImilar to my above comment, Canada is currently experiencing public health crises related to non-communicable diseases. One of the greatest predictors of these diseases is having a sedentary lifestyle. Removal of bike infrastructure and blocking new infrastructure will worsen these health crises by restricting physical activity for those living in urban centres and in car dependant regions.
4. We are experiencing a climate crisis. We need to build livable cities that are climate-ready and low carbon. This is an obvious step backwards for climate mitigation and adaptation.

Removal of existing bike lanes and blocking future infrastructure is completely unacceptable from a health, affordability, and climate perspective. Why are you wasting taxpayer dollars on this?