Request for Comment on…

Request for Comment on Enhancing Cycling Safety on Yonge Street

For the past 43 years, I have commuted for work or school along Yonge Street, traveling from Eglinton down to College or Queen. During this time, I’ve witnessed Toronto’s transformation into a much denser urban environment. As subway congestion increases, cycling has become an increasingly practical, time-efficient, and health-conscious mode of transport.

Research indicates that every minute spent exercising can extend life expectancy by up to four minutes, a powerful incentive for integrating exercise like cycling into daily routines. Beyond health benefits, cycling has allowed me to avoid heavy vehicle emissions, enjoying cleaner air and improved personal well-being.

However, this form of transport also carries risks. Over the years, I’ve experienced three accidents on Yonge street prior to the lanes: once when a drunk driver reversed into and destroyed my bike, a second time when a driver sideswiped me due to insufficient space, and a third time when a pedestrian unexpectedly stepped out from behind a planter. Fortunately, none of these incidents resulted in hospitalization, but they serve as reminders of the inherent dangers cyclists face on busy streets.

The German adage, "Trust is good, but control is better," aptly applies here. While trust in road-sharing etiquette is essential, effective infrastructure is paramount. To protect both cyclists and drivers—especially those less accustomed to navigating Toronto’s downtown—designing dedicated, well-separated cycling lanes on Yonge Street could drastically reduce risks.

My experiences underscore the need for improved cycling infrastructure that prioritizes safety. By keeping cyclists separated from vehicle traffic, we can foster a safer, more accessible, and healthier commuting environment for all. I urge the Ontario government to consider these changes in future urban planning to enhance safety and promote cycling as a sustainable form of urban transportation.