I am writing as a concerned…

I am writing as a concerned citizen of Burlington, and High School Student, regarding the recently proposed Bill 212. This bill, which mandates provincial approval for bike lanes directly impacts those of us who rely on safe, dedicated cycling routes for essential transportation. As someone who commutes exclusively by bicycle due to my current G2 license status, the lack of accessible, protected cycling infrastructure poses a real safety risk. My bike is my primary mode of transportation, from attending school and visiting the mall to traveling to nearby areas such as Hamilton and Watertown. Existing infrastructure, like the Plains Road bike lane in Burlington, demonstrates the positive changes bike lanes can bring to our community, yet significant gaps and dangers remain. For instance, navigating crossings on major highways, like the 401, can be both challenging and unsafe in addition to many drivers being very dangerous and threatening to drive me off the road. Bill 212 not only threaten to dismantle the progress made but also limit municipalities' ability to prioritize sustainable and safe cycling options for residents. The removal of lanes on Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue in Toronto as stipulated in the bill raises concerns about whether other cities, including Burlington, will see their own bike lanes removed in the name of traffic efficiency. This would push more people towards car usage, which only exacerbates environmental issues, adds to congestion, and compromises the safety of non-drivers. Research consistently shows that increasing car lanes does not reduce congestion; it often has the opposite effect. Bike lanes, on the other hand, encourage environmentally friendly travel, alleviate traffic, and support local economies. Removing these lanes forces many, including myself, into cars for shorter journeys—undermining the environmental and economic benefits of cycling and taking up more road space. I urge you to consider the detrimental effects that Bill 212 would have on citizens like me who depend on safe and accessible cycling routes.