This misguided legislation…

This misguided legislation will not only waste public resources removing well-functioning infrastructure and put cyclists' lives in danger, it will only exacerbate the problem it intends to solve - reducing congestion.

Tens of millions of bike trips occur in Toronto every year; if even a portion of those cyclists were to drive instead, even if an extra lane of traffic were introduced, the space requirements for those vehicles will be greater. Bike lanes are simply efficient in moving people because bikes take up so much less space.

Those drafting this act will find themselves in even worse traffic, surrounded by even more cars the city can't accommodate.

Add to that the increased frequency of disruptions caused by emergency response situations where cyclists, robbed of a safe commute, are injured or killed by being struck by vehicles.

Moreover, this act will harm local businesses. Each business association that has commented on the proposed removal of bike lanes has expressed dismay, as evidence shows cyclists are more likely to drop in and spend more.

Raising an additional concern; both the City of Toronto and the Government of Ontario have quantifiable evidence of a reduction in cyclists being struck by vehicles following the installation of bike lanes. Typically, government policy is exempt from legal liability. However, this act is so offside evidence that Ontario is very exposed to a class action lawsuit for willful negligence.

For the sake of business, moving people efficiently, and safety, I implore the government to retract this deeply flawed act.