I would like to register…

I would like to register strong concerns regarding the bike lane-related provisions in Bill 212.  I am a resident of Toronto and travel frequently by bicycle on Bloor, Yonge and University (especially Bloor from Royal York to Jarvis). My car use is minimal. I cycle year-round in Toronto — as do many friends and family, here and in Montreal and Ottawa.  

I have attended three “ghost bike” rides so far this year. I have spoken directly to loved ones of cyclists killed on Toronto roads. I have heard first hand the sorrow and pain caused by these senseless and preventable tragedies. 

Toronto’s population and the volume of housing (particularly on Bloor West) is growing rapidly. The number of people needing to move along these important corridors will be far greater in years to come. Nonetheless, the vast majority of cars that I see (again, on Bloor, Yonge and University) have only a single occupant.  I am very concerned that too many people are using cars instead the TTC or bicycles — and that too few people share their car rides when they must use a car. 

Unless there are safe, convenient lanes for cyclists, the volume of those riding will not increase to the level needed to meet Toronto’s rapid growth.  Countless other cities, including those with harsh winters, have proven that safe, convenient bike lanes are necessary to relieve the gridlock caused by excess car use. 

I expect the Provincial Government to provide appropriate leadership — leadership that takes into account both science and a vision for the future.  The City of Toronto has made a strong investment into the Complete Streets Initiative — with appropriate expertise, research and vision.  

Please do the right thing and support the Municipality in this important work, including by withdrawing or substantially amending Bill 212. Existing bike lanes must be preserved and the overall bike lane network expanded and improved.