It is an inappropriate…

It is an inappropriate overreach of power for the Ontario government to override municipalities regarding local infrastructure issues such as bike lanes. Municipal governments are voted in by city residents, and should be able to make decisions that reflect the health, safety, and transportation needs of those residents. The provincial government must refrain from interfering in such municipal matters.

Bike lanes are a health and safety concern in the city of Toronto. Bike lanes make the city safer, period. I commute on weekdays on the Bloor St. bike lane and am continuously impressed by how well-used it is. Removing the bike lane would force many commuters (including parents biking their children to school) to either compromise their safety by continuing to bike without the safety of dedicated lanes, or change their method of transportation. I have no doubt that many would instead opt to drive or use taxis or Ubers. This would for course further contribute to the gridlock the province is claiming they will solve. (It is also worth mentioning that it is safer for everyone, including pedestrian and drivers, when bikes have proper dedicated lanes.)

Not only do the bike lanes on Bloor greatly decrease gridlock, they also help relieve the issue of overcrowding on the TTC during rush hour.

This Bill is not based on evidence, and goes against the wellbeing of all of Toronto's residents. The province must refrain from imposing suburban and rural interests onto urban environments.

Government of Ontario, stay in your lane!

MJ