As a resident of Etobicoke…

As a resident of Etobicoke-Lakeshore, I am writing to express my disappointment with this government's decision to give the province veto power over the installation of bike lanes, while also possibly removing existing bike lanes. I feel this is a significant overreach of jurisdiction and power. These decisions should remain with municipalities, driven by actual data, not the feelings or anecdotal observations of well connected residents.

My family uses the bike lane on Bloor St. on a frequent basis. The bike lanes have provided a safe way for us to get to work, run errands and exercise. They have also allowed us to reduce our dependence on our car, significantly reducing the number of single vehicle trips we take. Additionally, my son used the Bloor St bike lane a great deal last summer to get to his summer job in Swansea. If we were to lose this valuable connection to other parts of the city, it would significantly impact the safety of his ride to work next summer.

I am continually disappointed (but not surprised) by this government's obsession with driving and beer. I would ask that focus be given to the health care file, education funding and announcing an opening date for the Eglinton LRT.