Bill 212 will not reduce…

Bill 212 will not reduce gridlock or save time for the people of Ontario. Due to the concept of induced demand, building more lanes of traffic will make traffic worse in the long run. This is a concept that has been proven and understood for decades. This bill is not based in scientific research or the interest of the public, and as a scientist I am appalled. Bill 212 also goes against the stated principles of the Ontario PC Party. In the PC Party Constitution, it is stated that "we accept our responsibilities... for the conservation and renewal of our environment for the present and future generations". This bill promotes a car-centric transportation system which does not help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The only thing that reduces car traffic is providing viable alternatives to driving. Some examples are fast and convenient public transit options, mixed-use zoning to create walkable neighbourhoods, and save bike infrastructure. Calling Bill 212 the Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act is at best misinformed and at worse actively deceitful. I expect my government to do better.

As a resident of Ontario, I don't like to drive. I would prefer to take public transportation, walk, and cycle. I longboard, and when I have safe bike lanes that are separated from car traffic, I am more likely to skate instead of walk or drive. When I am driving, I feel much safer when cyclists are separated from car traffic so I don't have to worry about hitting them. Separated bike lanes make our cities safer for everyone. I also believe that municipalities should be able to build bike lanes that remove lanes of traffic. I don't think that the Provincial Government should control municipal transit and walkability projects.

Please don't pass this bill. It will make Toronto streets more dangerous for cyclists and for me.