I am highly concerned by the…

I am highly concerned by the framework for bike lanes that require removal of a traffic lane. This is outside the jurisdiction of the provincial government, and takes away power unnecessarily from the municipalities.

Second of all, I truly believe that "if you build it, they will come." Toronto is only becoming more densely populated, and biking is the quickest way to get around and separated bike lanes are the safest way to do this. In my neighbourhood of Mimico, several years ago we had a cyclist named John Offutt who died after being crushed by a cement truck. While there were bike lanes on Royal York, they were not separated, and having this separation could have prevented his unnecessary death.

Third: cars take up a lot more room, and as long as they are burning gas, contribute to poor air quality. Globally, air quality is worsening, and air pollution is a leading cause of death. Particulate matter is particularly harmful and linked to heart and respiratory problems.

And tied to that - fourth: with our health crisis, biking offers another opportunity for people to get active.

Lastly, I am also a driver, and I often drive on Bloor between Islington and Royal York, which is one of the contentious zones for traffic that have spurred the passionate debate on bike lanes. I have not experienced any traffic while I've driven on these streets.

In conclusion: please keep the bike lanes so we can be ready for the future, and for our health and safety, and to respect the jurisdiction of local government.