To whom it may concern: I am…

To whom it may concern:

I am a resident of Toronto and an avid cyclist, who cycles almost every day within the city, all year round. I use my bike as my primary means of transportation for errands, work, and leisure. I have deliberately chosen not to own a car, as I prefer to use my bike for reasons of efficiency, value, environmental impact, as well as maintaining my health and fitness. Central to the success of cycling within Toronto is the network of bike lanes that have slowly come to fruition in the city over many years.

I am writing to express my absolute opposition to the provincial mandate calling for the removal of bike lanes from Toronto's roads. As a regular cyclist in the city, and a proponent of sustainable transportation and safe urban spaces, I believe that the removal of these bike lanes would be a devastating step backward for the city and its residents.

Bike lanes are a vital part of our urban infrastructure, serving not only as a key mode of transportation but also as an essential aspect of Toronto's broader strategy to address climate change, reduce traffic congestion, and promote public health. By removing these lanes, the provincial mandate will not only harm the environment but also limit the mobility options available to residents, particularly those who rely on cycling as a low-cost, eco-friendly mode of transportation.

The removal of bike lanes would disproportionately affect those who are most vulnerable in our city—commuters, students, and low-income individuals—who rely on biking as an affordable and efficient means of travel. In addition, removing bike lanes would lead to an increase in congestion, as more people would be forced to rely on cars for their daily commute. This will not only worsen traffic flow but also increase air pollution and carbon emissions, directly contradicting our city's environmental goals.

Furthermore, bike lanes enhance the safety of all road users. Studies consistently show that cities with well-designed cycling infrastructure experience fewer accidents, with both cyclists and motorists benefiting from clearly designated lanes. Removing bike lanes will only increase the risk of collisions, particularly in an already congested urban environment like Toronto.

Toronto's population is growing, and with it, the need for diverse transportation options. Removing bike lanes undermines the city's commitment to being a forward-thinking, inclusive, and sustainable urban center. Rather than dismantling the progress made in cycling infrastructure, we should be investing in further expansion and improvement of these networks to encourage safer and more efficient commuting options.

I strongly urge you to reconsider this mandate and to support efforts that promote safer, healthier, and more sustainable transportation options for all Torontonians. Our future lies in investing in transportation systems that reduce congestion, improve air quality, and encourage active lifestyles—bike lanes are an integral part of that vision.

I am also concerned about the environmental implications of "Bill 212", particularly in relation to resource extraction, land development, and environmental regulations. Ontario is home to diverse ecosystems that must be protected for future generations. Weakening environmental protections would be a step backward in the province’s commitment to sustainability.

The Ontario Greenbelt is an incredibly important ecological, environmental, and social resource for several reasons:

1. Environmental Protection
Preservation of Biodiversity: The Greenbelt spans over 2 million acres and includes a wide range of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and agricultural lands. This diversity helps to maintain local biodiversity by providing habitats for native plants and animals. Many species in the Greenbelt are rare or endangered.
2. Climate Change Mitigation: The Greenbelt acts as a natural carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide and helping to mitigate climate change. The trees, soil, and wetlands trap greenhouse gases, which is critical as cities like Toronto continue to grow and industrial emissions rise.
Water Quality and Management: The Greenbelt is also key to maintaining clean water. It surrounds the headwaters of many rivers and streams that supply drinking water to millions of Ontarians. Wetlands and forests within the Greenbelt help filter water and reduce flooding by absorbing excess rainwater and preventing soil erosion.
3. Agricultural Land Protection
Sustaining Local Agriculture: The Greenbelt is home to some of Ontario's most fertile farmland. It helps to preserve agricultural land from urban sprawl, ensuring that local food production remains sustainable. The Greenbelt includes vital agricultural areas like the Niagara Escarpment and the Holland Marsh, which are essential for producing a wide variety of crops and supporting Ontario's agricultural economy.
Food Security: By protecting farmlands, the Greenbelt plays a role in maintaining a secure, local food supply. It helps reduce the environmental footprint associated with food imports and transportation.
4. Urban Sprawl Prevention
Controlled Development: The Greenbelt serves as a barrier to prevent uncontrolled urban sprawl, which can lead to the destruction of natural areas and farmland. Its boundaries help ensure that cities grow in a more sustainable, compact way, encouraging higher-density development and reducing the pressure to build on sensitive land.
Urban Quality of Life: By preserving green space, the Greenbelt provides areas for recreation, relaxation, and escape from urban life. Access to natural spaces in urban areas is shown to improve mental and physical well-being, and the Greenbelt offers these spaces to residents of Ontario’s urban centers.
5. Cultural and Recreational Value
Outdoor Recreation: The Greenbelt is a popular spot for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, birdwatching, and nature walks. These recreational opportunities contribute to the physical and mental health of the population and provide a place for people to connect with nature.
Cultural Heritage: Many Indigenous communities have cultural ties to the land within the Greenbelt, and it also contains significant historical sites that reflect Ontario's colonial and indigenous past.
6. Economic Benefits
Tourism: The Greenbelt boosts tourism by attracting visitors interested in outdoor activities, environmental education, and local produce. This contributes to the local economy, especially in rural and farming communities.
Sustainable Land Use: The Greenbelt fosters a balance between urban development and environmental stewardship. By ensuring that some land remains untouched or used for agriculture, it provides long-term economic benefits, including sustainable food production and environmental tourism.
7. Public Health and Well-being
Clean Air and Recreation Spaces: Access to green spaces in urban areas is linked to better health outcomes, including lower rates of heart disease, obesity, and mental health disorders. The Greenbelt offers urban residents opportunities to escape the stress of city life and enjoy the benefits of nature, contributing to improved well-being.

I urge you to reconsider the provisions of Bill 212 and engage in meaningful dialogue with the public, experts, and communities who will be directly affected by these changes. It is vital that any policy changes prioritize the well-being of Ontarians, safeguard our environment, and ensure equitable access to resources and services.

Thank you for your attention.