I live in Downtown Toronto…

I live in Downtown Toronto and, although I own a car, I choose to use it as little as possible in the city. This choice ensures that I do not contribute to the traffic gridlock that is a constant feature of Torlonto living and, of course, also reduces the impact on the environment.

To get around the city, I walk, take the TTC, and bike where it is safe to do so. Over the past few years, the increase in the number of safe bike lanes in the city means that I have been able to bike further afield - especially onto Bloor Street West and Midtown Yonge Street - streets that were previously unsafe for cyclists. Now I am able to regularly shop and dine at restaurants in these areas and so contribute to small businesses who are still recovering from the effects of the pandemic. Should these bike lanes be removed, I will no longer be able to visit these areas with the same regularity.

I would urge you to consider the needs of all Torontontians in the city - not just those who choose to drive their cars - and continue to treat safety for cyclists and pedestrians as being of paramount importance.

Please do not remove the existing bike lanes and allow the local elected representatives (Toronto City Council) to make decisions on when and where future bike lanes and complete streets are installed.

Thank you.