I’m writing to request a…

I’m writing to request a reconsideration of Bill 212, specifically regarding provincial oversight and restrictions on the installation of cycling infrastructure like bike lanes. There are five key benefits that bike lanes bring: (1) improved safety for all road users (including reductions in dooring, sideswipe, and rear-end collisions), (2) better economic outcomes for local businesses and governments, (3) lower greenhouse gas emissions, (4) a narrowing of access gaps for equity-seeking populations, and (5) enhanced physical and mental health. I’ll focus on the health, equity, and safety impacts of protected bike lanes.

First, physical activity is crucial for reducing chronic health conditions and improving mental wellbeing. Active transportation, such as walking or cycling, is an effective way to meet the 24-hour movement guidelines, boosting health, fitness, and overall wellness. Bike lanes not only encourage more cycling but also increase the total distance traveled by cyclists. Research shows that replacing car trips with cycling can extend life expectancy by up to nine years. Additionally, physical inactivity costs the healthcare system an estimated $6.8 billion annually due to its link with chronic diseases.

Second, prioritizing private vehicle use disproportionately affects equity-deserving populations, including racialized people, those living on low incomes, persons with disabilities, women, and Indigenous peoples. Lower-income neighborhoods often lack safe and healthy design. When active transportation infrastructure like sidewalks, bike lanes, and transit options are integrated into these areas, social and health inequities decrease. This gives people access to affordable, safe travel options to reach work, groceries, recreational facilities, and healthcare. This isn’t just a local finding—global research shows that high-quality, multi-modal infrastructure increases active transportation, yielding social and health benefits. More affordable travel options also mean people can spend more on essentials like food and rent or extras like supporting local businesses.

Finally, the installation of bike lanes significantly improves safety for all road users. The Canadian Paediatric Society has noted that well-connected cycling infrastructure creates a ‘halo effect,’ reducing collisions involving motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists within a 500-meter radius. Protected bike lanes, in particular, are the safest option compared to painted lines or other alternatives.

Investing in high-quality active transportation infrastructure leads to more walking and cycling, benefiting both physical and mental health while reducing chronic disease rates. These benefits must be distributed equitably, so all community members can take advantage of active transportation.