Bill 212, which mandates the…

Bill 212, which mandates the removal of bike lanes on major Toronto streets, is a misguided approach to addressing traffic congestion. This policy not only misallocates taxpayer funds but also fails to enhance traffic efficiency.

The City of Toronto estimates that removing bike lanes on Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue will cost at least $48 million, in addition to the $27 million originally spent on their installation. This substantial expenditure diverts resources from more effective congestion mitigation strategies.

Research indicates that bike lanes can alleviate traffic congestion. A 2024 CBC News article highlights global studies demonstrating that bike lanes can ease congestion, reduce emissions, and benefit businesses. Moreover, the concept of “induced demand” suggests that increasing road capacity often leads to more traffic, not less. Conversely, reducing road capacity can decrease traffic volumes, as drivers adjust their behavior by seeking alternative routes or modes of transportation. 

In summary, removing bike lanes is unlikely to reduce traffic congestion and represents an inefficient use of public funds. A more effective strategy would involve investing in comprehensive transportation planning that promotes diverse and sustainable modes of travel.