Dear Minister, As a…

Dear Minister,

As a physician who has served the people of Ontario for over 3 years, I feel compelled to address the recently proposed policy requiring municipalities to seek provincial approval before implementing new bicycle lanes that necessitate the removal of an existing lane of traffic.

In my professional capacity, I have witnessed a distressing surge in traumatic injuries and fatalities resulting from collisions between motor vehicles and cyclists. During my tenure here, the number of cyclists admitted to emergency rooms with life-altering injuries—or worse, who have lost their lives—has increased at an alarming rate. These are not mere statistics; they are individuals whose lives have been irrevocably changed, families torn apart by preventable tragedies.

This trend is symptomatic of a broader cultural issue: an antagonistic relationship between motorists and cyclists. Cyclists are inherently more vulnerable road users, lacking the protective barriers afforded to those in vehicles. By enacting policies that hinder the development of safe cycling infrastructure, we exacerbate this vulnerability and perpetuate a cycle of hostility and misunderstanding on our roads.

The proposed policy poses several significant concerns:

1. Compromised Safety for Cyclists: Limiting the creation of dedicated bike lanes forces cyclists into regular traffic lanes, increasing the likelihood of accidents. This not only endangers their lives but also places additional strain on emergency medical services and healthcare facilities.
2. Worsening Traffic Congestion: Contrary to the intention of reducing gridlock, integrating cyclists into vehicular lanes may actually impede traffic flow more than dedicated bike lanes would. Cyclists traveling at lower speeds can cause delays, leading to frustration among drivers and potential road rage incidents.
3. Damaging Community Relations: Policies that neglect the needs of cyclists can foster resentment and deepen the divide between motorists and cyclists. This antagonism detracts from the sense of community and mutual respect that is essential for harmonious coexistence on our roads.
4. Negative Environmental Impact: Discouraging cycling by making it less safe undermines efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
5. Economic Costs: The long-term healthcare costs associated with treating injured cyclists, as well as the economic impact of lost productivity, far outweigh the short-term benefits of maintaining additional lanes for motor vehicles.

I urge the Government of Ontario to reconsider this policy in favor of a more balanced approach that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all road users. Possible alternatives include:

- Investing in Comprehensive Cycling Infrastructure: Develop protected bike lanes that do not compromise existing traffic lanes but instead create a safe, efficient network for cyclists.
- Implementing Road Sharing Education Programs: Educate both drivers and cyclists on road safety and the importance of mutual respect, reducing the cultural antagonism that currently exists.
- Promoting Multi-Modal Transportation Solutions: Encourage the use of public transportation and cycling as viable alternatives to reduce traffic congestion and environmental impact.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Base infrastructure decisions on comprehensive data analysis, considering not just immediate traffic flow but also long-term societal benefits and costs.

In conclusion, while the goal of reducing gridlock and improving transportation efficiency is commendable, it should not come at the expense of cyclist safety and community well-being. The proposed policy risks exacerbating existing problems and creating new ones, ultimately detracting from the quality of life for all Ontarians.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.