I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 212. As a recent transplant to Toronto from Los Angeles, California, I chose to settle here because of its vibrant, walkable, and bike-friendly downtown core. Bill 212 threatens to undermine these defining features, reducing the quality of life for Torontonians and all Ontarians alike.

Here are my primary concerns with Bill 212:

-Unnecessary Bureaucracy and Costs:
By introducing a provincial review process for existing bike lanes, Bill 212 would create unnecessary red tape, adding inefficiency and wasting public funds. This approach greatly contradicts the principles of fiscal responsibility and streamlined governance - principles that this provincial government purports to operate under.

-Ineffective Traffic Management:
Extensive research shows that removing bike lanes and adding car lanes does not reduce congestion. Induced demand means that increased road capacity leads to more traffic, not less. The most effective way to alleviate congestion is by investing in alternatives to driving, such as cycling infrastructure.

-Compromised Safety for All Road Users:
Removing bike lanes will not eliminate cyclists from major streets; it will force them into shared traffic lanes. This creates dangerous conditions for cyclists and drivers alike. Dedicated bike lanes keep all road users safer by reducing conflicts and ensuring predictable traffic flows.

-Essential Urban Infrastructure:
For many residents, including myself, bike lanes are as vital as sidewalks and public transit. In a dense city like Toronto, cycling is an efficient and sustainable mode of transportation, making bike lanes indispensable.

-Impact on Delivery Riders and the Local Economy:
Bike lanes are crucial for delivery riders who support Toronto's economy by providing quick service to restaurants and customers. Removing these lanes endangers their safety and disrupts their ability to work efficiently. Delivery riders deserve safety and consideration in the same way that regular commuters do.

Toronto’s bike-friendly infrastructure is a cornerstone of its identity, contributing to its livability and sustainability. I urge you to reject Bill 212 and prioritize investments that enhance, rather than erode, Toronto’s active transportation network.

Thank you for your consideration.