I am firmly against this…

I am firmly against this proposal to remove bike lanes on Bloor, Yonge, and University in favor of more motor vehicle lanes. This plan is counterproductive, sacrificing sustainable urban infrastructure and worsening Toronto’s traffic and environmental issues.

Bike lanes are essential for reducing congestion, improving air quality, and promoting healthier, alternative transportation options. Removing them ignores their role in mitigating gridlock by encouraging cycling as a viable mode of transport. Increasing vehicle lanes may offer a short-term solution but will likely lead to more cars, more emissions, and worsened air quality, detracting from the quality of life in Toronto.

The decision to exempt this initiative from the Environmental Assessment Act is a blatant disregard for the environmental impact of increased motor vehicle traffic and the loss of green transit options. Such an exemption raises serious concerns about transparency and the government’s commitment to sustainability, making it crucial that any review of bike lane removal includes a full environmental impact assessment.

This proposal moves Ontario backward, prioritizing cars over comprehensive urban health and environmental sustainability. I object to this plan and urge the government to maintain and expand bike lanes to support a balanced, forward-thinking approach to urban infrastructure.