I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed Bill 212, specifically the provision that calls for the removal of established bike lanes on major streets such as Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue. The bill explicitly states it will "provide for the removal of the bike lanes on Bloor St., Yonge St., and University Ave. in the City of Toronto and to return them to a lane of traffic"​
. This approach is fundamentally flawed and poses significant risks to the city's transportation ecosystem, public safety, and environmental goals.

1. Public Safety Risks: Removing these bike lanes will undoubtedly endanger the lives of cyclists, forcing them into shared lanes with motor vehicles. Protected bike lanes significantly reduce the risk of accidents, providing a safe space for cyclists who would otherwise be at higher risk of collisions with cars. Research has shown that cities with robust cycling infrastructure experience fewer traffic fatalities and injuries. The decision to eliminate these safe spaces directly contradicts the goal of making our streets safer for all users, including pedestrians, who also benefit from the reduced risk of cars veering onto sidewalks when bike lanes are present.

2. Worsening Traffic Congestion: The bill's intent to reduce gridlock by increasing vehicle lanes is counterintuitive. Studies in urban planning repeatedly show that expanding road space for cars only encourages more driving, a phenomenon known as induced demand. By removing bike lanes, the government will likely push many current cyclists back into cars, increasing the number of vehicles on the road. This influx will exacerbate congestion rather than alleviate it. On Bloor Street alone, bike lanes currently accommodate thousands of cyclists daily. Eliminating these lanes could result in a significant increase in cars, negating any potential traffic improvements the bill seeks to achieve​

3. Environmental and Public Health Setbacks: Encouraging more car usage by removing bike lanes would directly undermine efforts to combat climate change and reduce emissions. The transportation sector is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in Ontario. Promoting active transportation, such as cycling, is a key strategy in reducing our carbon footprint. Bike lanes not only help lower emissions but also reduce noise pollution and improve air quality, contributing to better public health. By removing this infrastructure, the bill disregards these critical environmental benefits and sets us back in our fight against climate change.

4. Economic Implications and Misuse of Taxpayer Funds: Eliminating bike lanes would waste substantial public investments already made in developing these lanes. Data from the Bloor Street BIA show that since the installation of bike lanes, local businesses have seen increased foot traffic and sales, as cyclists are more likely to stop and shop. The economic benefits of well-placed bike lanes are well-documented, with many studies highlighting their positive impact on local commerce. Removing these lanes would disrupt this economic activity, potentially harming businesses that have come to rely on the increased footfall from cyclists​

5. Overreach in Municipal Affairs: This bill represents an overreach of provincial authority into municipal planning, stripping cities like Toronto of their ability to make transportation decisions tailored to their local needs. Toronto's city planners and community consultations have repeatedly supported the expansion of cycling infrastructure as a vital part of the city's transportation strategy. By overriding these local decisions, the provincial government is disregarding the voices of residents and experts who have carefully studied the benefits of bike lanes.

In conclusion, Bill 212 is a step in the wrong direction. It prioritizes short-term traffic flow over long-term solutions that could lead to a safer, healthier, and more sustainable city. Instead of dismantling existing cycling infrastructure, the government should be investing in expanding it, enhancing public transit options, and implementing policies that reduce car dependency. I strongly urge the government to reconsider this bill and protect the bike lanes that have become an integral part of Toronto's transportation network and urban landscape.