I'm writing to express my…

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 212. This bill is not only a massive step backward for our city but a direct threat to the safety and well-being of cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike.

Toronto has come a long way in creating infrastructure that supports cyclists and makes our streets safer for everyone. Removing these bike lanes is not only misguided but blatantly disregards the lives of those who rely on them. Every time a family member, friend, or coworker gets on their bike to commute to work, I worry. I wonder every time if this will be the last time I see them again, and the tragic reality is that too many cyclists have already lost their lives or faced serious injury on these streets. What is being proposed with Bill 212 makes it clear that safety is being sacrificed for the illusion of reducing driver traffic, a premise that isn’t even supported by solid data.

Besides the overwhelming evidence that bike lanes work, what about the climate implications. Choosing to cycle reduces car traffic and harmful emissions to our environment. Our government needs to get serious about this. It is one of the most eco-friendly ways to commute, and supporting bike infrastructure is essential in reducing harmful emissions in cities like Toronto. Every person who chooses to bike instead of drive helps cut down on greenhouse gases, air pollutants, and the traffic congestion that contributes to these emissions. Fewer cars on the road mean less carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful chemicals polluting our air, making the city a healthier place to live.

The idea that this will improve traffic flow is short-sighted. Bike lanes ease congestion by giving people a safe, reliable alternative to driving. Cities worldwide have shown that bike lanes improve traffic efficiency, reduce emissions, and build a more connected community. Taking them away will only lead to more congestion, pollution, and deaths on our roads. It’s a decision that will undermine the progress Toronto has made as a city.

And let’s not overlook the financial waste here. Instead of investing in infrastructure that benefits everyone, the province is offering to spend taxpayer money on tearing down lanes that are actively helping people. This seems more about creating lucrative contracts for a select few than genuinely addressing traffic issues.

Ultimately, Bill 212 isn’t just about bike lanes; it’s about who we want to be as a city. Toronto deserves to be a place where everyone feels safe, whether they're cycling, driving, or walking. Everyone deserves the right to safe, accessible transit. By pushing this bill through, the government is telling us they don’t care about our safety or the city’s future.

I urge the Legislature to reconsider this reckless decision and prioritize the safety and sustainability of our communities.