As a resident and tax payer…

As a resident and tax payer of Toronto, I strongly oppose the removal of bike lanes in Toronto. Evidence consistently shows that bike lanes benefit safety, the environment, local businesses, and urban efficiency.

Improved Safety: Bike lanes significantly reduce collisions. For example, the installation of bike lanes on Bloor Street led to a 71% reduction in conflicts between cars and cyclists, making roads safer for everyone, including drivers and pedestrians. Research consistently shows that investments in cycling infrastructure improve public safety and reduce injuries. A review of transportation studies highlights that protected bike lanes and other cycling-specific infrastructure significantly lower the rates of crashes and injuries compared to roads without such measures. By designing roadways to prioritize safety for cyclists, municipalities can substantially mitigate traffic-related risks and create environments where active transportation is safer and more accessible

Boosting Local Economy: Studies on Bloor Street demonstrated that bike lanes increased foot and bicycle traffic, with customers arriving by these means spending more and visiting more frequently than those who drove. Merchants reported stable or improved customer counts and economic activity after bike lanes were introduced.

Environmental and Health Benefits: Encouraging cycling reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes healthier lifestyles, alleviating public health costs and combating climate change.
Reduced Congestion: By enabling more people to opt for bicycles, bike lanes alleviate car traffic and improve commute times. This helps cities function more efficiently while reducing noise and air pollution.

Removing bike lanes undermines the city's goals for sustainable, safe, and accessible transportation. Instead of reverting to outdated urban planning that prioritizes cars, we should expand cycling infrastructure to create a greener, healthier, and more vibrant Toronto. Please reconsider this proposal.