I'm writing to share my…

I'm writing to share my massive concerns about the idea of reducing bike lanes in Toronto. I really believe that taking a step back on bike infrastructure would be a huge mistake for our city, the environment, and the economy.

Even without taking environmental benefits into account, cycling brings a wide range of health and economic benefits that must be considered before deciding to remove bike lanes.

Cycling is great for public health. It’s an easy way to get active, prevent chronic diseases, and reduce healthcare costs. The Ontario Public Health Association has said that increasing cycling could prevent thousands of premature deaths. Cutting bike lanes would be a step in the wrong direction, especially when we need to be prioritizing healthier lifestyles.

Studies have shown that shops and restaurants near bike lanes see more customers and higher sales. Plus, cycling tourism is growing, which means more people visiting and spending money in Ontario.

Not only that, but removing the lanes will be very costly to taxpayers. A just-released City report tallies the initial total cost to taxpayers of removing these bike lanes at $75 million in direct and sunk costs, and notes increased ridership of up to 600% in some of the lanes planned for removal, with minimal impact on car travel times. So, this move isn't even going to achieve the desired effect you want it to achieve!

We need more infrastructure that encourages walking, biking, and transit use if we want to make the city more sustainable, healthy, and vibrant for ALL (and not just the wealthiest and most affluent of us!)