I have been a long-time…

I have long been a Conservative voter and admire Mr. Ford's premiership.

I also appreciate his concerns about traffic gridlocks and his attempts to solve them.

As a car driver and cyclist, I believe I have an objective assessment of Toronto's driving challenges and bike lanes' benefits.

Start with the bike lane benefits. As a physician, I am fully aware of the growing obesity rates and regular exercise benefits. Not only am I concerned about my own health, but I also wish to be a role model to my patients. I cycle to work whenever the weather permits.

Aside from its health benefits, cycling is an enjoyable activity. Yet, during rush hours in Toronto, cycling is mostly nerve-racking. I am constantly concerned about speedy and irresponsible drivers taking advantage of cyclists to gain an extra minute at the expense of my safety.

From this perspective, bike lanes are vital in a city like Toronto. I would not cycle to work (and drive instead, adding one more car to the traffic jams) if it were not for the wonderful Bloor Street and University Avenue bike lanes that allow me to do so.

As a Conservative-minded physician, I urge Mr. Ford and his government to reconsider the plans to remove the main bike lanes in Toronto. This is a great mistake that will not guarantee the PC more votes, but discourage conservative voters like my like-minded friends and colleagues from supporting the party at the next election.

There is much that the PC government can do to strengthen voters' support (healthcare investments being the most important cause). Removing bike lanes is not a wise or strategically good choice.

I count on Mr. Ford's government to change Bill 212 to delete its bike lanes' proposed changes.

Thank you for the opportunity to contribute.