I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 212, the "Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act." This bill, which could require municipalities to seek provincial approval for new bike lanes and potentially remove existing lanes, is deeply concerning for several reasons.

Firstly, bike lanes are crucial for public safety. Studies have consistently shown that protected bike lanes reduce accidents and fatalities for cyclists and pedestrians alike. By making cycling a safer option, we encourage more people to use bikes for short trips, which helps to alleviate traffic congestion rather than increase it. Removing these lanes would likely lead to more accidents and discourage the use of sustainable transportation alternatives.

Secondly, bike lanes have been shown to benefit local businesses. In Ontario, cities like Toronto have seen increased foot traffic and higher sales for businesses located along streets with protected bike lanes. Removing these lanes could negatively impact the local economy by reducing accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians who frequent these areas.

Lastly, this bill undermines the authority of municipalities to make decisions based on the unique needs of their communities. Municipal governments are in the best position to understand local traffic patterns and to implement solutions that balance the needs of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Imposing a top-down approach from the provincial level is not only inefficient but disregards the progress many communities have made towards creating safer, more inclusive streets.

I urge you to vote against Bill 212 and to support initiatives that prioritize the safety and well-being of all road users. Ontario should be moving forward with sustainable transportation solutions, not rolling back the progress we’ve made.

Thank you for your time and consideration.