The Ontario government’s…

The Ontario government’s proposed legislation to remove and restrict bike lanes in Toronto raises important concerns about governance, resource allocation, and the future of urban mobility.

Municipal Authority on City Infrastructure: Decisions about bike lanes and urban transportation should remain within the jurisdiction of municipalities, not the provincial government. Municipal governments are closer to their communities and better equipped to understand the needs of their residents. A government committed to “small government” principles should respect local decision-making authority, allowing cities like Toronto to design and implement infrastructure that reflects the unique needs of their populations.
High Costs of Repeated Infrastructure Changes: The constant addition and removal of bike lanes incur unnecessary financial costs. Funds spent on repeatedly reconfiguring roadways could be more effectively allocated towards maintaining and enhancing long-term infrastructure projects. Ensuring a stable and thoughtful approach to transportation planning is essential to minimize wasteful spending on temporary or reversible measures.
Prioritizing Long-Delayed Projects: There are critical transportation projects, like the Eglinton Line, that have seen delays spanning over two decades. Resources should be directed towards completing these essential infrastructure projects rather than dismantling established bike lanes. Completing projects that have been stalled for years will provide tangible benefits for residents across the region, making better use of public funds and addressing existing transportation gaps.
Efficiency of Bike Lanes in Urban Centers: In major cities like Toronto, bike lanes provide a fast, efficient, and sustainable means of moving people, often quicker than cars in high-traffic areas. I, and many others, prefer bike lanes over driving for precisely these reasons. Cities should be designed to prioritize the people who live in them, with a focus on affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly transportation options. The majority of urban residents do not rely on cars due to high ownership and parking costs. Designing cities around car traffic not only excludes these residents but also promotes an outdated model of urban planning that ignores modern sustainability goals.
Creating Inclusive Urban Spaces: Cities should prioritize the needs and preferences of their residents. Cars are costly, parking is limited, and the environmental impact of vehicle traffic is significant. By focusing on efficient public transportation and sustainable alternatives like cycling, we can create a more inclusive and forward-thinking city infrastructure. Planning for cars alone ignores the economic realities for many urban dwellers and excludes those who rely on active and public transportation.
In summary, I urge the Ontario government to reconsider this legislation and allow Toronto to make its own decisions regarding bike lanes. Focusing on completing overdue projects and respecting municipal authority would provide far greater benefits to Ontarians than reversing progress on sustainable transportation infrastructure.

Thank you for considering these points in your legislative process.