I strongly urge you to…

I strongly urge you to reconsider this proposal. Removing bike lanes and restricting new ones would be a step backward for Toronto's transportation infrastructure and safety.

As a daily bicycle commuter who also relies on the TTC, I can attest to the vital role protected bike lanes play in our city. These lanes not only improve safety for cyclists but also contribute to better traffic flow overall. Protected bike lanes have been shown to increase road capacity and reduce congestion in many cities that have implemented them extensively.

Moreover, prioritizing cycling infrastructure aligns with Toronto's climate goals. The city's TransformTO Climate Action Strategy aims to have 75% of trips under 5km made by walking or cycling by 2050. Removing bike lanes would directly contradict this objective and potentially increase our carbon footprint.

It's also worth noting that removing bike lanes may not achieve the desired effect of reducing congestion. According to the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, cyclists are entitled to use a full lane when it's unsafe to ride to the right. Without dedicated bike lanes, more cyclists will likely exercise this right, potentially leading to slower traffic flow and increased frustration among all road users.

Furthermore, the safety implications cannot be overstated. Protected bike lanes significantly reduce the risk of accidents between cyclists and motor vehicles. By removing these lanes, we risk increasing accidents and potentially deterring people from choosing this eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Instead of removing bike lanes, I urge you to consider expanding our cycling network. Cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam have demonstrated that comprehensive cycling infrastructure can significantly reduce traffic congestion while improving public health and environmental outcomes.

Let's make Toronto a leader in sustainable urban transportation. Please invest in our cycling infrastructure rather than dismantling it. Our city's future mobility, safety, and environmental health depend on forward-thinking policies that embrace all modes of transportation.