Stop removing bike lanes in…

Stop removing bike lanes in Toronto and beef up public transit.

It’s horrible to drive in the city but that’s the fault of an increase of cars post-pandemic. So reduce the number of cars.

I was a long-time resident of Toronto and when I lived there I rued the weekend when an influx of cars from the suburbs would arrive and make my weekend errands hell. Hopping on my bike was a huge relief. I could avoid car traffic and still get around the city to do what I wanted. Did I take my life in my hands? Yes, because until recently, my presence on the road was not protected. I enjoyed the city and my commute and my errands much more once my bike and I were segregated from car traffic. Residents of the city (and vistors who hop on bikes to get around) need safe, car-free lanes.

Post-pandemic there is little incentive for suburban visitors to leave their cars at home. Make the Go cheap on weekends. Make it easy to get around the city by increasing the available public transit (Post-pandemic I’ve waited 45 mins for a Dundas streetcar).

I’m now a resident of Hamilton, and I’m happy to leave my car at home and come in to the city via GO. I’d come in more than just for work if there was a good reason to (e.g. an event, a weekend special Price for the GO, extra train trips to make coming in and getting out easier).

Finally, roads like Queen West or Dundas West where there are no bike lanes (pre- and post- pandemic ) were and still are slow moving. People park their cars so you only get one lane for traffic anyway.

Stop pandering to drivers (it’s not the 1960s) and start doing what’s best for a modern Toronto.