As a resident and daily…

As a resident and daily commuter in Ontario, I am writing on behalf of my family and myself to express strong opposition to Bill 212, which seeks to remove vital sections of bike lanes from key streets like Bloor, Yonge, and University. Our family relies on these bike lanes as an essential part of our commute, using them not only for their efficiency but also for the safety they provide us and others. These lanes allow us, as cyclists, to navigate our city's roads securely, reducing the risk of incidents with motor vehicles and supporting a more sustainable, healthy means of transport.

Bike lanes are not just a benefit to cyclists; they serve the broader public by ensuring a safer, more organized flow of traffic for all road users. As drivers ourselves, we appreciate bike lanes for the protection they afford to vulnerable road users, creating a buffer that reduces potential conflicts and improves overall traffic efficiency. Without these dedicated lanes, we risk losing the protection they provide, creating a hostile and hazardous environment for anyone who chooses to commute by bike.

Additionally, bike lanes support essential infrastructure that aligns with Ontario's environmental goals, encouraging fewer cars on the road, lower emissions, and promoting active lifestyles. Reducing or removing these lanes directly contradicts efforts to foster sustainable urban planning and takes a step backward in making Toronto, and other Ontario cities, cities that accommodates diverse and environmentally conscious modes of transport.

I urge the government to reconsider this proposal and instead view bike lanes as part of our essential infrastructure. Maintaining and expanding them, rather than restricting them, will create a more resilient and forward-thinking Ontario that truly meets the needs of all residents.

Thank you for considering these concerns.