I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed provincial plan to restrict the development of bike lanes in Ontario’s municipalities. This approach is not only shortsighted but also undermines effective urban planning and the urgent need for sustainable transportation options.

Research consistently shows that bike lanes play a key role in reducing gridlock, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and improving overall traffic flow. In a time when many people are facing rising living costs, bike lanes provide affordable transportation for those who rely on them. Limiting bike lane infrastructure ignores the needs of these residents and worsens existing disparities in transportation access.

Traffic congestion only compounds itself—more cars lead to more gridlock. Expanding bike lanes provides a practical solution by promoting alternative transit options and relieving congestion, which is vital for community health, safety, and climate change efforts. A failure to invest in safe, accessible cycling infrastructure reflects a lack of foresight and leadership in tackling urban challenges.

Concerns that bike lanes hinder emergency response lack evidence. The City of Toronto has confirmed that emergency services are able to navigate current cycling infrastructure, countering claims that bike lanes cause delays. By restricting bike lanes, we put vulnerable road users at greater risk and disrupt Toronto’s approved plan to add 100 kilometers of bike lanes over the next three years.

Our government should prioritize evidence-based decisions over political distractions that ignore real issues. This proposed legislation not only threatens Toronto’s progress but also undermines broader efforts to make our cities more accessible and affordable across Ontario.

Furthermore, this matter falls within municipal jurisdiction, and provincial intervention here represents a severe overreach.

As citizens, we demand you to reconsider this proposal and support a vision of cities that prioritize sustainable transportation, resident well-being, and environmental responsibility, within the purview of provincial decision making.