As a resident of Toronto who…

As a resident of Toronto who lives near Midtown Yonge, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed amendment to Bill 212, which mandates the removal of bike lanes on Yonge Street. I strongly urge you to preserve the Midtown Yonge Complete Street as it currently exists.

As someone who regularly uses the Yonge Street bike lanes to commute to work, I can attest to their importance for ensuring my safety on the road. Without these bike lanes, I would be forced to share the road with high volumes of vehicle traffic, significantly increasing the risk of being involved in an accident.

The Midtown Yonge Complete Street has never been solely about bike lanes. It represents a comprehensive effort to create safer, calmer, and more accessible streets for everyone, regardless of their mode of transportation. The Complete Street promotes walkability, supports local businesses by increasing foot traffic, and enhances the vibrancy of the area with parkettes and streetside cafes.

Removing these bike lanes would not only endanger cyclists but also result in increased vehicle congestion and harmful emissions. It would erode the progress made toward creating a safer and more inclusive community space.

In February 2023, Toronto City Council made a clear and democratic decision to make the Midtown Yonge Complete Street permanent. This decision followed extensive public consultation and reflects the needs and desires of the community. To see this effort undone without proper consultation would undermine local democracy and disregard the voices of those who call this area home.

I ask you to stand with residents like myself who depend on the bike lanes for safe and sustainable transportation. Please reject the amendment to Bill 212 and preserve the Midtown Yonge Complete Street in its entirety.

Thank you for considering my perspective on this matter.