The cycling infrastructure…

The cycling infrastructure developed throughout Toronto has been a beacon of progress in a very tough time. Removing them would not only be a waste of money, but it compromises a healthier, safer city for all residents. Studies show that adding more lanes for cars INCREASES gridlock by convincing more people to drive. We need to get more people out of their cars and onto transit or in bike lanes, which can move far more people more efficiently. Bikes are also zero carbon transport, not hard on infrastructure, and support the local economy, and promote active lifestyle and lower stress (all of which are good for people and the province's health care costs). Bike lanes also provide the lowest cost transportation option in a time when rates of poverty and food insecurity are rising.

Further, having clearly marked areas for cyclists makes the road safer for ALL users, including pedestrians and drivers. The roads of Toronto are already dotted with too many ghost bike memorials, and the premier's plan to remove safe, reliable cycling infrastructure will cost more people their lives. I am happy to lose a couple minutes of convenience if it saves lives.

As an occasional driver, I will say it can be inefficient to drive across the city: it SHOULD be. While cars are sometimes necessary, when faced with a climate crisis we need more people out of their cars, and if we can achieve that, everyone stands to benefit.

The province should stop interfering with a municipal decision that affects lives here in Toronto.