To the Ontario Provincial…

To the Ontario Provincial Government,

I am writing in regarding Bill 212 - Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024. As a citizen of Toronto for over a decade and an individual who uses a variety of transportation methods including walking, cycling, public transit, and carpooling, I advocate for safer & more sustainable transportation options for all. I support the expansion of cycling infrastructure as part of a comprehensive solution to reduce gridlock and congestion. I understand the concern about traffic flow, and I’ve reviewed your top priorities such as short-term wins, economic growth, job creation, and cost-saving measures. I appreciate having this platform to share how expanding cycling infrastructure will not only improve congestion now and in the long term, but also support your other top priorities.

_MORE BIKES = LESS CARS_

Although the idea of improving traffic flow by removing bike lanes may seem like a great solution on the surface, it can only increase congestion in the long term. Removing bike lanes is a great idea for someone who cannot consider the long-term impacts. On the contrary, a capable team like yours can undoubtedly build strategic cycling infrastructures that can reduce gridlock and congestion in a way where Ontarians will reap benefits in the short term and in the long term.

Well designed cycling infrastructure ends up encouraging more folks to use cycling as a means of transportation. As you understand, traffic congestion is a result of more vehicles on the road than there is space for. Those who do not care for the long-term impacts of our wonderful province would quickly opt to increase vehicular lanes as the obvious answer, but a thoughtful & strategic leader understands that reducing the number of vehicles on the road is the solution that wins for everyone now and in the long term.

The establishment of cycling infrastructure brings significant advantages to our most vulnerable road users, especially those who are less confident about sharing roads with vehicle users, particularly children. The safety of our future generation is paramount. Moreover, promoting cycling as a safer and better mode of transportation for children increases the likelihood that they will continue to use cycling in the future, leading to reduced congestion for generations. The positive ripple effects cannot be understated. This is the kind of forward-thinking that I anticipate from our provincial and municipal leaders.

_ENVIRONMENTAL WINS_

Promoting cycling over vehicle use significantly reduces emissions and makes Ontario an environmentally-conscious province. We’ve had warmer-than-usual days this October, which is a constant reminder of the environmental damage that drivers are contributing to. Not only does providing more cycling infrastructure promote environmental benefits, it encourages future generations to lean into cycling as the obvious mode of transportation, and you’ll leave a legacy of Ontarians who are contributing to a healthier, greener world.

_SHORT-TERM BENEFITS_

While I mention long-term benefits, I know you are responsible for implementing positive changes in the short term as well, especially since the current situation is getting out of hand. Fortunately, there are many immediate benefits to investing in bike lane infrastructure! This investment creates immediate jobs, like those in construction and urban planning just to name a few. These are well-paying jobs that will have a positive impact on the local economy. Moreover, the maintenance and future expansion of these lanes will create steady employment in Ontario, supporting industries tied to roadworks and infrastructure. The decision to support cycling infrastructure aligns with your goal of economic growth and creating jobs.

Further, bike lanes play a crucial role in boosting economic growth. Research shows that cyclists are more inclined to stop at local shops than those in cars. The convenience of biking encourages spontaneous visits, leading to increased spending in local businesses. Additionally, cyclists incur lower vehicle-related costs, allowing them to invest more in their communities. This vibrant economic activity strengthens local economies and supports the government’s objectives of creating jobs and enhancing economic vitality.

Since you are passionate and committed to lowering the cost of living for Ontarians, another huge benefit of biking is that it is a low-cost option that can help families reduce their transportation expenses—whether it’s through lower gas, insurance, or parking costs. By making it safer and more accessible for Ontarians to bike, your government can help families save money, which they can then reinvest into local economies.

Promoting cycling can alleviate pressures on Ontario’s healthcare system. With healthcare being one of your top priorities, here’s another win-win situation. Increased cycling contributes to better public health outcomes, reducing the prevalence of diseases like heart disease and obesity. This shift ultimately translates into long-term cost savings for public services, allowing the government to allocate resources more effectively.

_BIKE & TRANSIT INFRASTRUCTURE_

Some have argued that it does not make sense to have bike lanes on all roads. In response, I encourage your team to consider how to strategically build cycling infrastructure to make the most of taxpayer dollars. For example, protected bike lanes built to be part of a broader, integrated transit plan would be much more successful. Combining cycling infrastructure with existing and new public transit options like the TTC, GO Transit and the Ontario Line can create a cohesive, multimodal transportation network that benefits both cyclists and drivers, ultimately easing congestion. Specifically, cycling infrastructure built around major transit lines like the TTC Yellow Line (Yonge St), Green Line (Bloor St), and Union Station is critical.

_CITY DECISIONS_

Municipal governments have the most intimate knowledge of what their cities & citizens need. The needs of each municipality within Ontario will differ as well, depending on the makeup of its residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. I highly encourage trusting the mayors to make the right decisions for their cities so you can spend your time and energy on urgent matters that require your specific attention and expertise.

Investing in cycling infrastructure is a win-win solution: it reduces gridlock, boosts the local economy, creates jobs, and saves families money - all while making our streets safer. Your leadership on this matter will set a powerful example for the rest of Canada.

Sincerely,
Teresa