This bill is so problematic…

This bill is so problematic and short sighted.

First, the province should not over-rule the city's careful process of planning and decision making. Toronto's mobility infrastructure and policy should primarily be decided by the people who live here and rely on these roads every day.

Second, removing bike lanes or preventing future lanes is not an evidence-based reaction to excessive congestion in the city. There is a strong research base that tells us about "induced demand." i.e., Adding another lane for cars will ease traffic congestion for a very short period before they "induce" (encourage) more car use, resulting in a return to high congestion. Ultimately, we cannot ease Toronto's congestion by encouraging more driving. The population is increasing. Without shifting people to TTC and cycling, the number of cars on Toronto's roads will only increase.

Say you take away the bike lanes tomorrow and add another lane for cars; in two years, when traffic is again congested on Bloor, what next? We cannot widen the road any further. Instead, we have to encourage alternative transportation for everyone who doesn't need to drive. This will keep traffic moving for those who have to drive.

Third, when people cycle rather than drive, not only does it remove cars from clogging the roads but it also has health benefits for the cyclists (saving provincial health insurance expenditure), it reduces fuel consumption and pollution levels in the city, it reduces wear and tear on the roads, and it reduces consumption of the fuel, metals, plastics and materials that go into creating more cars.

Fourth, we need bike lanes on many major roads to ensure cycling is a viable transportation option. Pushing cyclists onto minor roads will mean fewer people cycle because routes will take longer and involve more hills. Cyclists want to be on the efficient routs and on the streets with the shops, banks, libraries, etc.

Fifth, without bike lanes, cyclists will die. Some will stop cycling and some will use side streets but many will continue to use the main roads, where they will be far more vulnerable to being hit by cars.

Sixth, making cycling more dangerous and less viable is an equity issue. Cycling is far cheaper than owning and driving a car so prioritizing the safety and comfort of car owners is prioritizing the wealthy over the poor. Youth are not legally allowed to drive yet also have the right to move freely and comfortably around the city. The thousands of delivery people who zip around on eBikes to keep our city functioning are primarily young newcomers to Canada trying to make a life; they deserve safety and comfort.

Seventh, Bill 212 also includes an egregious effort to exempt Hwy 413 from environmental assessment and proper approvals for land use.

More cars and more roads is not in alignment with Toronto's strategic plans (e.g., Vision Zero) and Canada's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.