I’m deeply disappointed with…

I’m deeply disappointed with the recent proposal to rip out major bike lanes in Toronto. This decision is not only misguided but a complete waste of taxpayer money and a step backwards in fostering a healthier, safer, and more vibrant city.

The claim that bike lanes cause traffic congestion is demonstrably false. Bike lanes actually REDUCE congestion by giving people alternatives to driving, taking would-be drivers and passengers out of the road and putting them into a bike lane. The math is simple; fewer cars on the road means less gridlock. Studies have repeatedly shown that bike lanes help ease traffic, not exacerbate it.

Bike lanes are also good for the local, small businesses that you claim repeatedly to support. Bike lanes mean more pedestrian-friendly roads, and when people walk or bike, they are more likely to shop locally. This isn’t just speculation; there is data from cities around the world including our own, showing how businesses along bike-friendly streets experience more foot traffic and higher sales. By removing these lanes, the Provincial Government is not just inconveniencing cyclists, it will hurt our local economy.

Economics aside, bike lanes save lives. Cities with robust cycling infrastructure consistently report fewer injuries and fatalities among both cyclists and drivers. These lanes provide a safe, dedicated space for bikers, reducing the risk of dangerous interactions with vehicles.

It’s disturbing to think that after investing taxpayer money in creating a more forward-thinking, livable city, the plan is now to throw all of that away. This is a waste of public resources and sets a terrible precedent. We should be building on this progress, not tearing it down.