As a car commuter, I share…

As a car commuter, I share the common frustration with increasing traffic congestion. I understand the annoyance that can come from sharing the road with cyclists, especially when it feels like they're slowing us down or creating unsafe situations. However, I believe that the proposed bill might actually make our driving experience more challenging rather than improving it, and this is backed by all the research I can find on the topic.

Here's why:

1. Keeping Cyclists Out of Car Lanes: Getting rid of bike lanes doesn't get rid of cyclists, it just puts them in our way. Dedicated bike lanes provide a separate space for cyclists, which means they are less likely to ride in the main traffic lanes we use. This separation can reduce unexpected slowdowns caused by encountering cyclists on the road, allowing for a smoother driving experience.

2. Reducing Traffic Congestion: By offering safe routes for cyclists, some people may choose to bike instead of drive for short trips. This can lead to fewer cars on the road, which means less traffic for those of us who need to drive longer distances. Fewer vehicles can translate into shorter commute times and less stop-and-go traffic.

3. Boosting Local Businesses: Roads designed for calmer traffic not only improve safety but also make commercial areas more accessible and attractive to pedestrians and cyclists. Cycling and driving at slower speeds can encourage people to explore local businesses they might otherwise pass by. This can lead to increased sales and a stronger local economy, which benefits everyone in the community.

4. Improving Road Safety: With designated bike lanes and calmer traffic speeds, drivers can be more confident that cyclists are not suddenly entering their lanes, reducing the risk of accidents. Slower speeds give drivers more time to react to unexpected situations, making the roads safer for everyone.

5. Enhancing Community Appeal: A community with bustling local businesses and safe, attractive streets increases property values and makes our neighborhood a more desirable place to live. This is beneficial for homeowners and can lead to better public services funded by a stronger tax base.

6. Local Control Over Roads: The bill would require municipalities to seek provincial approval for changes that affect local roads. This could lead to delays and added bureaucracy, potentially slowing down other road improvements that could benefit drivers and the local economy.

In summary, while it might seem that reducing bike lanes and maintaining higher road speeds would make driving easier, the opposite could be true. Properly designed bike lanes and appropriately managed road speeds can keep cyclists out of our way, reduce overall traffic congestion, and make our drives safer and more efficient. Plus, supporting local businesses through increased cyclist traffic and more inviting roads benefits the entire community. I urge you to consider these points and rethink the proposed legislation for the benefit of all road users and our local economy, especially for those of us who rely on our vehicles every day.