This proposed legislation…

This proposed legislation risks reinforcing a car-centric approach to urban planning that prioritizes vehicles over pedestrians and cyclists. Limiting bike lane installation and removing environmental assessment processes for major highway projects does nothing to reduce gridlock. In fact, it actively ignores the growing demand for more sustainable, safe, and diverse transportation options.

Each municipality should have the ability to design and implement transportation infrastructure that suits its communities’ unique needs. Different neighbourhoods face different challenges, and the solutions must be tailored accordingly.

Perhaps the most compelling reason for rethinking transportation policy is safety. Ontario, like many other regions, has seen tragic incidents involving vulnerable road users — particularly cyclists. Just this year, six cyclists were killed on Toronto’s streets. Bill 212 disregards the safety of these individuals, which is not only unacceptable, but dangerous.

Limiting bike lanes undermines efforts to make our roads safer for all users. By encouraging more cycling and creating designated lanes, we protect cyclists, reduce traffic congestion, and make the streets safer for everyone — drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

One of the biggest concerns with the proposed legislation is that it would limit municipalities’ ability to make decisions based on their communities’ specific needs. Cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton face different transportation challenges than small, rural municipalities like Ramara and Severn, and it’s essential that the local governments have the flexibility to address these issues on their own terms.

Instead of restricting municipalities’ ability to install bike lanes, we should empower them to make decisions that reflect the realities of their communities. Each city should be able to create a transportation strategy that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and accessibility for everyone — not just motorists.

As we look to the future, we hope that the Ontario government will adopt a progressive transportation strategy that prioritizes safety, environmental considerations, sustainability, and municipal autonomy. After all, the future of Ontario’s transportation system must be one that works for everyone — whether they are driving, cycling, walking, or taking transit.