I strongly oppose Bill 212,…

I strongly oppose Bill 212, the "Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024," as it undermines local autonomy, disregards evidence-based urban planning, and threatens the progress made in fostering safer, more sustainable, and equitable cities. Municipalities like Toronto have invested years in creating bike lane networks that reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, and encourage active transportation, which is critical in addressing climate change and enhancing public health. Removing established bike lanes on key corridors like Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue will not only reverse these gains but also endanger cyclists and pedestrians, exacerbate gridlock by encouraging more car use, and increase greenhouse gas emissions. Centralizing decision-making on bike lanes at the provincial level dismisses the expertise and priorities of local governments that are more attuned to the needs of their communities. This bill fails to recognize that bike lanes are essential infrastructure for a sustainable future, not just "optional" road features. Public consultations and stakeholder input have repeatedly demonstrated strong support for bike lanes, and their removal contradicts both local and global commitments to combat the climate crisis. I urge the government to reject Bill 212 in its entirety and instead invest in infrastructure that prioritizes sustainable, multi-modal transportation solutions that truly reduce gridlock and support healthier, more vibrant communities.