To Whom It May Concern: I am…

To Whom It May Concern:

I am a lifelong resident of Ontario and I strongly oppose the substance and intent of Bill 212. I will be brief in my comments regarding the substance of the bill; others more eloquent than I have commented at length on that.

There is ample research on the health benefits of increased cycling, and the importance of protected bicycle lanes on saving lives. Two of the best studies include:

De Hartog et al. 2010 and Milner et al. 2024.

On the reverse side, a recent meta-study on the harms of automobility paints just how harmful encouraging more car use is for people in so many ways, per Wegman and Schepers, 2024. I have included links to all three studies with my submission.

Instead I will focus my comments on the regulations:

Do not make the application process for installing bike lanes too onerous. We do not want to waste taxpayer dollars at multiple levels of government where previously this was unnecessary. If the MTO fails to respond to a Municipality's request, or attempts any untimely delay, let the default be considered approval of the cycling infrastructure. Regardless of the policy goals of this Bill, it should not unduly add red tape.

Secondly, let the municipalities use external (including international sources) when proposing infrastructure. For something simple like bicycle lanes there does not always need to be extensive new research. Use what's out there already.

Third, the local transportation network including the road network and sidewalks, affect the local environment: decisions should be locally made. In the regulations, I would strongly recommend wording for deference to local experts, including municipal planners, local BIAs, neighbourhood associations, residents, business owners, and local elected officials.

Thank you for your consideration.