I am writing with a concern…

I am writing with a concern regarding Bill 212 and the removal of the bike lanes on Bloor St, University Ave and Yonge St. As someone who is an avid biker in this city, I am aware of the usefulness of these bike lanes as they promote accessibility and ease of transport for many people in far reaches of the city.

Bike lanes are significant for equity of transit in this increasingly expensive city, where owning or renting a car and taking transit is unattainable for many folks. These folks are equally as deserving of a safe and accessible transit route as drivers in the city. As both a biker and pedestrian in the city, I have become acutely aware of the dangerous driving occurring around me, including drivers going through red lights, stop signs, or taking right turns without checking for anyone coming. Bike lanes encourage everyone on the road and sidewalks to be aware of what is happening around them, so, not only would it ensure the safety of cyclists, but also of everyone else who is using the road and sidewalk. Along the lines with environmental initiatives, bike lanes are an easy way to contribute to the reduction of emissions, as well as encouraging citizens to engage with a healthy lifestyle. Finally, the last few years of bike lane implementation on Bloor St and University Ave have been somewhat disruptive, but it has been rewarding to see the outcome and how well-used the bike lanes are. Spending the time to tear out the bike lanes that have JUST been implemented will be incredibly disruptive, expensive, and create far more traffic than the Bill is proposing it will fix.

I would be sincerely disappointed to see this Bill pass. I think that our city has come a really long way to promote enjoyment and safety with regard to bike transit. During the COVID-19 pandemic, city bikes were utilized to a significantly high degree as an alternative method of transit, and it has propelled a much more developed culture of cycling in the city. Cycling is an incredible way to build community and bike lanes would further encourage folks to get out of their cars and onto the streets of our exciting city, including supporting local businesses and seeing different areas that one wouldn't normally see if they are driving by in a car. Bike lanes save lives, and too many people have been killed while cycling in this year and in the past number of years. This simply must be taken into consideration when decisions are being made about implementing this bill or not.