As commentary on ERO 019…

As commentary on ERO 019-9266, Bill 212 Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024,

Climate Action Newmarket Aurora

* Supports municipal authorities in determining bike lane development without added provincial oversight. Municipal representatives are closer to their constituents and better able to respond to the needs/wants of the community regarding both vehicle and bike transit as well as growth and development in neighborhoods. Research from major cities (New York, Paris, Copenhagen, Montreal) shows that bike lanes significantly reduce car commuter times.

* Backs municipalities' efforts to decrease emissions and acknowledges the impact of increased bike ridership, as seen in Toronto, where bike trips rose by 4 million over eight years. More cyclists can alleviate road congestion and reduce vehicle numbers, contributing to lower emissions.

* Highlights that cycling has a much smaller carbon footprint than cars, with the environmental impact of bike manufacturing offset within a year of use, making bike lanes crucial for combating climate change.

* Reminds the government that cycling is an affordable, sustainable lifestyle choice and cyclists are equally entitled as drivers to arrive safely to their destinations.

* Raises concerns about relocating utility infrastructure potentially leading to the expropriation of more agricultural and Greenbelt lands, which are vital for food supply and carbon sinks.

* Calls for thorough environmental assessments for Highway 413 and the Bradford Bypass, ensuring compliance with species at risk legislation.

* Opposes the expropriation of Greenbelt and agricultural lands for highway projects and,

* Argues against transferring regulatory powers for towing zones from the Lieutenant Governor General to the Minister of Transportation, as this reduces accountability for the province.

Therefore, Climate Action Newmarket Aurora opposes Bill 212 as it currently stands.