I am a driver, a cyclist,…

I am a driver, a cyclist, and patron of public transit.

The removal of bike lanes will not succeed in reducing gridlock in Toronto, it will only serve to incentivize further car travel in a city, increase greenhouse gas emission and pollution, and ultimately worsen traffic over time.

It is unbelievable that the conservative members of parliament would believe driving should be prioritized in a city of over 3 million people. This bill solely reflects a car-centric and individualist ideology that reflects the needs of suburban dwellers when accessing the city through means that are currently most convenient to them. To truly reduce gridlock in the GTA, we need better intercity transit options. In lieu of the time, energy, and money invested in this bill, the province should be investing money in GO transit and other transit agencies across the province.

Complete streets and the biking infrastructure on Bloor, Yonge, and University are reflective of the needs of the residents of the City of Toronto, with the needs of not only current residents but also future residents in mind. What's also astonishing is how the removal of these bike lanes would contradict the city and province's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Most importantly, the removal of bike lanes will put vulnerable road users at a greater risk of injury and death. To be considering this bill following the deadliest year for cyclists in the city shows a blatant disregard for the safety of cyclists. To prioritize the convenience and time of some over the wellbeing and lives of others will be remembered as a terribly selfish abuse of power.

I urge the province to reconsider this bill.