I am writing to express…

I am writing to express serious concerns about the proposed framework regarding municipal bike lane approvals and specific removals in Toronto. This proposal appears to disregard extensive research and data on urban transportation safety, economic benefits, and climate goals.

Key concerns:

1. Contradicts Evidence on Safety
- Multiple studies show protected bike lanes reduce injuries and fatalities for ALL road users
- Toronto's own data from Bloor Street shows a 73% reduction in conflicts between all road users after bike lane installation
- Research from New York City found protected bike lanes reduced injury crashes by 40% for all road users

2. Ignores Economic Benefits
- Business studies on Bloor Street showed customer spending increased after bike lane installation
- Merchants on streets with bike lanes report higher retail sales compared to comparable streets
- Protected bike lanes increase property values and attract new businesses

3. Undermines Municipal Authority
- Cities need flexibility to manage their transportation networks based on local needs
- This framework overrides evidence-based local decision-making
- Municipal governments are best positioned to understand their communities' transportation needs

4. Conflicts with Climate and Transportation Goals
- Both provincial and municipal climate action plans call for increased active transportation
- Removing bike lanes will increase car dependency and emissions
- This contradicts Ontario's own stated goals for sustainable transportation

5. Disregards Public Health Benefits
- Active transportation infrastructure promotes physical activity and better health outcomes
- The Canadian Medical Association endorses protected bike lanes as a public health measure
- Removing bike lanes will have negative impacts on community health and wellness

The existing bike lanes on Bloor, Yonge, and University Avenue have proven successful through:
- Increased cycling volumes
- Reduced collision rates
- Improved business activity
- Enhanced street vitality
- Better access to local businesses and institutions

Rather than removing successful infrastructure, we should be building upon these achievements. I strongly urge the province to:
1. Withdraw this proposed framework
2. Engage with municipalities and transportation experts to develop evidence-based policies
3. Support municipalities in expanding, not removing, safe cycling infrastructure
4. Align provincial policy with climate, health, and safety goals

This proposal appears to prioritize single-occupancy vehicles over proven safety measures and sustainable transportation options. I respectfully request that the province reconsider this approach and instead work with municipalities to enhance, rather than restrict, their ability to build safe, sustainable transportation networks.