This is a terrible,…

This is a terrible, misguided proposal. Municipalities are in the best position to determine the appropriate allocation of space on roadways. In some cases, reducing the number of lanes on a roadway (e.g. moving from four lanes to three, but with a dedicated turning lane) can actually improve traffic flow.

In some cases, redesign of a street is necessary to address safety issues that arise from high traffic speeds and volumes. In Toronto alone in 2023, six cyclists and 12 pedestrians have been killed. It is unconscionable and unacceptable that required changes to road infrastructure or improve resident safety could be overruled by the province.

Decisions about municipal roadways should be made at the local level by municipal politicians, acting on the professional advice of transportation staff.