Re: Proposed Removal of Bike…

Re: Proposed Removal of Bike Lanes on Major Toronto Arterial Roads

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to remove bike lanes from Yonge Street, Bloor Street, and University Avenue in favor of additional car lanes. As a Toronto resident who regularly uses multiple forms of transportation – including driving, cycling, and public transit – I believe this proposal would be a significant step backward for our city's transportation infrastructure and quality of life.

The bike lanes on these major arteries have become vital corridors for safe, sustainable urban transportation. Speaking from personal experience, these protected lanes have allowed me to cycle safely with my children, introducing them to an environmentally friendly and healthy mode of transportation that will shape their relationship with our city for years to come. The security provided by dedicated bike lanes has made it possible for families like mine to choose cycling for both recreation and practical transportation.

While I understand the frustration of traffic congestion – as someone who also commutes by car – removing bike lanes is a short-sighted solution that fails to address the root causes of our transportation challenges. Studies consistently show that adding car lanes provides only temporary relief from congestion due to induced demand, while removing bike infrastructure discourages sustainable transportation alternatives and increases safety risks for cyclists.

Instead of dismantling our progress toward a more sustainable city, I urge you to consider:

1. Expanding and improving our subway system to provide more efficient mass transit options
2. Optimizing bus routes to better serve our communities, and considering replacement of some streetcar routes with more efficient bus alternatives
3. Maintaining and enhancing our bike lane network to encourage active transportation
4. Implementing smart traffic management systems to improve flow on existing car lanes
5. Using traffic police to guide vehicles at the busiest intersections at the busiest times of day

The current bike lanes represent more than just painted lines on pavement – they represent our city's commitment to sustainable urban development, public health, and environmental responsibility. Their removal would send a troubling message about Toronto's priorities and vision for the future.

As our city grows, we need to embrace solutions that move more people more efficiently while reducing our environmental impact. Removing bike lanes to add car capacity is the opposite of what a forward-thinking city should do. We must instead focus on creating a transportation network that serves all citizens, whether they choose to walk, cycle, drive, or use public transit.

The success of these bike lanes has been demonstrated by their regular use by cyclists of all ages and abilities. They have become an integral part of many Torontonians' daily routines, providing safe passage for commuters, families, and recreational cyclists alike. Their removal would force many cyclists back into unsafe conditions or onto sidewalks, creating new problems while solving none.

I strongly urge you to reject this proposal and instead focus on comprehensive solutions that enhance, rather than reduce, transportation choices for all Toronto residents. Let's continue building a city that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and diverse transportation options for everyone.