This Act is in direct…

This Act is in direct contrast to proven best practices in the field of urban studies. I have been a volunteer cycling advocate for twenty years and keep up to date on all relevant research. The only way to reduce gridlock is to reduce the number of people driving. Creating safe interconnected networks of bike infrastructure leads to "modal shift" - more people can choose cycling over car use for everyday travel purposes such as errands and commuting. Cycling needs to be prioritized as a safe, convenient and enjoyable way to get around communities of all sizes - cities, towns and hamlets. Our community of Haliburton Village is working on an Active Village Pathways Network to encourage this change in behaviour. If a family can get by with one car instead of two, the money they save can be put toward to housing and food - so important in the current affordability crisis. If children grow up being able to safely ride a bike to school, friends and activities - they establish healthy lifestyles, have better mental outlook, are more engaged in their community. There will be savings in healthcare. Municipalities and provincial cycling advocacy organizations serve the people best when they follow evidence-based decision making. This provincial Act is insults the integrity of expertise that has gone into cycle network planning. Reconsider today! Thank you.