I oppose this framework for…

I oppose this framework for the following reasons:

1. Local Authority: Bike lanes fall under municipal responsibility. Cities like Toronto carry out thorough consultations, data analysis, and continuous assessments on bike lane implementation. Provincial involvement does not add value and disregards local expertise.
2. Ideology Over Data: Statements from the Premier and Minister suggest this initiative is ideologically driven rather than evidence-based. Research within Ontario and abroad shows that bike lanes have minimal impact on car travel times. The framework’s stated goal of reducing congestion lacks support from actual, well-documented data.
3. Misleading or Outdated Data: Officials reference data that is either outdated or irrelevant. For example, the cited figure that only 1.2% of “Toronto” commuters bike is 13 years old and covers an expansive area, including regions without cycling infrastructure. Recent studies show high urban cycling rates in Toronto, with many residents using bikes for commuting and daily activities. This selective use of data reflects a political stance, not an informed one.
4. Missed Opportunities: This framework diverts attention from actions that would genuinely address congestion, such as expanding public transit and promoting active, environmentally beneficial transportation options. This government should be partnering with municipalities to support bike lanes which would help reduce gridlock.
5. Cost Implications for Municipalities: The framework fails to specify the costs municipalities will incur to comply, raising transparency concerns. This omission implies that the financial burden will fall on local governments without adequate provincial support.

Overall, the proposed framework within Bill 212 would hinder municipalities’ efforts to improve cycling infrastructure and does little to achieve its stated objective of reducing gridlock. I am opposed to its implementation.