Many provincial highways…

Many provincial highways lack bike lanes or adequate shoulders for cyclists to safely travel. Further, twinning initiatives (more so in Northern Rural highways (69, 11, 17), are either A: unsafe for cyclists, B: cycling is not permitted, C: there is no alternative paved corridor (suitable for road bikes), D: lack signage for cyclists alerting them of alternative corridors.

Cycling is not just a passion for those in southern Ontario, and policy direction should outline equal opportunity direction for northern cyclists. Notably, many cyclists travel across Canada or the Province as part of the Trans-Canada Highway. Ways to segregate cyclists from heavy thru-traffic is recommended. It is possible more individuals would attempt a trans-national/provincial journey if safety and signage was addressed. There is an opportunity for marketing and tourism within a dedicated trans-national/provincial bike route.

MTO should further seek to engage municipalities and urban centres with regards to funding and construction of dedicated bike lanes and paths.
Maps of bike lanes, routes, transit stations and secure bike storage areas are recommended to be placed at strategic intervals and locations (I.e. transit hubs, stops, public offices).

Bike racks should be installed at all government-owned, publicly accessible facilities for both employees and the public to utilize. Facilities at capacity should be able to seamlessly request additional bike racks etc.
Suggested private facilities eligible for bicycle parking facilities include local attractions, downtown ‘hotspots’, farmers markets, central hubs to mass employment areas , green spaces.

[Original Comment ID: 197077]