Keeping bike lanes in…

Keeping bike lanes in Toronto is essential for several reasons. Protected bike lanes offer an affordable and accessible form of transportation, especially for those who cannot afford a car or rely on public transit. This inclusivity allows more people to participate in the city’s transportation network without the high costs of owning a vehicle. Also, not only do bike lanes protect cyclists, but they also create a buffer between motor vehicles and pedestrians. This separation improves the overall flow of traffic and reduces the likelihood of accidents involving cars, cyclists, and walkers.

Long-term traffic reduction requires a shift toward sustainable forms of transportation. Simply increasing space for cars doesn’t change people’s travel behavior. Bike lanes, on the other hand, incentivize cycling as a practical, safe, and efficient alternative, leading to a more balanced and less congested transportation system. When cities invest in expanding roads or parking for cars, it tends to encourage more driving. People who previously avoided driving due to traffic or lack of parking may now choose to drive, leading to congestion returning to the same or even worse levels. This has been observed in many cities around the world, where road expansions fail to reduce long-term traffic.