I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 212. This bill is deeply misguided and will have devastating consequences for Toronto, contributing to the very problems it claims to address. As a concerned citizen and a constituent, I am committed to doing everything within my power to prevent its passage. I urge you to consider the long-term effects this bill will have on our city and province.

Countless studies show that bike lanes alleviate congestion through the phenomenon of induced demand, where more road space for alternative forms of transportation reduces the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road. Cities around the world have used bike lanes and public transit investments to improve traffic flow and provide safer, faster alternatives to driving. Expanding lanes for vehicles while reducing infrastructure for bikes, on the other hand, has been proven to worsen congestion. Toronto already faces significant traffic issues, and adding more car lanes will only exacerbate these problems.

We are living in a time when Canadians are increasingly aware of the environmental and social impact of their choices. More and more people are turning to cycling, public transit, and carpooling as practical and responsible commuting options to reduce carbon emissions and shorten commute times. It is shocking that Bill 212 would attempt to undermine these positive changes, especially given the pressing need to address climate change.

Additionally, my fellow constituents and I are appalled by the bill’s attempt to eliminate the environmental assessment for the proposed Highway 413. This reckless approach bypasses crucial evaluations needed to understand the environmental and societal impacts of new developments. If our government ignores these assessments, it risks irreversible damage to Ontario’s natural landscape and fails in its duty to future generations.

Please reconsider your stance on this disastrous bill. As long as it remains associated with the current government, I will work alongside other citizens to stop it through peaceful democratic means, including protesting and campaigning to protect our community and environment.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to seeing a decision that values the well-being of all Ontarians, present and future.