Thanks for the opportunity…

Thanks for the opportunity to comment on Bill 212.

First, I want to clarify that cyclists in this province are often commuters, in need of travelling quickly and efficiently to their destinations: to travel to work on time, to drop their kids off at school, to pick up groceries for their families, and to participate in the economic and social life of the province. I am deeply concerned that Bill 212 has an implicit assumption that only motor vehicle drivers need to reach their destinations, and that cyclists must be out for recreation. We need to prioritize safe and efficient travel opportunities for those using active transportation options--pedestrians and cyclists.

Second, I want to note that separate and protected bicycle lanes with adequate signage and specific signals make all traffic move more quickly, efficiently, and safely. When vehicles--motorized and self-powered--each have their own clear rules and spaces, and these are divided, too, from pedestrian traffic, everyone benefits.

And third, I want to emphasize that municipalities should have the ability to implement infrastructure and design for active transport without the added burden of applying to the province. Even more pressingly, the city of Toronto should not be required to remove any bike lane infrastructure or regulations; such a move would undermine safe cities, threaten both cyclist and driver safety and well-being, harm families, and contravene commitments at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels to environmental protection and climate action.

I'll end with a personal note: as a professional in Toronto who commutes to work by bicycle, I find myself scared on a daily basis. I travel some routes that do not yet have adequate bicycle lanes, and in those areas, now expect that cars will turn into my lane without looking and that drivers will open doors without checking. My simple commute--a 5km distance--should not require constant vigilance to stay uninjured and safe. In the stretches where there are protected bike lanes (e.g., part of College Street), I have a glimpse of the kind of urban future that we could build, where traffic moves smoothly and safely, a mix of transportation options contributes to a vibrant and lively city, and careful infrastructure and design ensures that all of us can make it home from work each day without harm.

Please protect Ontarians by protecting and expanding bike lanes. They benefit all of us.