I am deeply concerned about…

I am deeply concerned about Ontario's new proposal that would mandate provincial approval for new bicycle lanes if they require the removal of existing vehicle lanes and, more troublingly, the potential removal of existing bike lanes on major Toronto roads like Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue.

Bike lanes are not just a progressive urban transportation feature but a critical component of public safety and a more efficient urban flow. When implemented effectively, bike lanes increase the number of people moving through our city in an environmentally sustainable and space-efficient way. Cyclists take up significantly less road space than cars, and protected bike lanes encourage more people to bike, reducing vehicle congestion over time rather than exacerbating it.

Toronto has witnessed far too many preventable deaths and injuries because drivers fail to respect or notice bikers. Reducing the availability of secure bike lanes would only endanger more lives. Instead of scaling back on bike infrastructure, we should expand it to create a more balanced, safe, and people-oriented transportation network.

The proposed framework prioritizes short-term vehicular convenience over the long-term benefits of a comprehensive, multimodal transportation system. It risks reversing hard-won progress in making Toronto more livable and environmentally conscious. Rather than returning to car-centric policies, we should be investing in solutions that promote equity and safety for all road users, especially the most vulnerable.

I urge decision-makers to consider the value of secure bike lanes for public safety, environmental benefits, and a healthier, more vibrant city. Preserving and enhancing bike lanes is not just a matter of convenience but a crucial aspect of urban life that saves lives and promotes sustainable urban mobility.