Comment
I write to express opposition to Bill 212 in the strongest possible terms. I live in Toronto and rely on both cycling and public transportation infrastructure daily for all commuting needs. The installation of the bike lanes, particularly those along the Danforth-Bloor corridor, has been integral in my ability to safely commute. Bike lanes provide Ontario residents additional transit options, safer means to arrive at their destination, reduce congestion for everyone, and maximize transit infrastructure. In a 2019 survey published by the City of Toronto, the top cited concern that all individuals, that is, non-cyclists and utilitarian cyclists alike, had with respect to cycling was safety. Dedicated bike lanes provide safe options for vulnerable road users, and represent essential transportation infrastructure, like sidewalks and public transportation. That same survey indicated substantial increases in cycling (44% identified as being utilitarian cyclists and 70% as recreational cyclists), far more than the often cited 2011 statistic that only 1.2% of city residents are cyclists—a statistic that included the entirety of the amalgamated city of Toronto, including vast regions of the city where there is no cycling infrastructure. Moreover, 67% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with the statement “I would like to travel by bike more than I do now”. Increased bike infrastructure is in line with resident wants. Furthermore, while the perception is that bike lanes substantially increase congestion and travel times for drivers, the data does not back this up. A 2022 Pilot Project report by the City of Toronto found that the installation of bike lanes along Yonge St (Bloor St to Davisville Ave) had minimal impact on car travel, only increasing car travel times by a minute at rush hour. That same report identified an increase of between 57% and 180% of daily cycling volumes within the pilot area, a clear indication that when provided with quality biking infrastructure, residents embrace it. Finally, Bill 212 serves to increase red tape and inhibits Ontario cities’ ability to self-govern on matters specific to the city with little to no provincial implication. For these reasons, among others, I am strongly opposed to the passage of Bill 212.
Submitted November 2, 2024 12:48 PM
Comment on
Bill 212 - Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024 - Framework for bike lanes that require removal of a traffic lane.
ERO number
019-9266
Comment ID
110987
Commenting on behalf of
Comment status