As a Canadian and home owner…

Hi,

As a Canadian and home owner in Toronto, I have serious concerns about Exempting Building 413 from the Environmental Assessment Act and the removal and strict limiting and regulation of bike lanes. Prioritizing personal cars is not scalable, sustainable, or good for the public health, and is not the right path forward for a city of this size, and

Exempting Building 413 from the Environmental Assessment Act poses significant risks. It can lead to adverse environmental effects, including habitat destruction, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Public health risks may go unchecked, affecting nearby communities. The exemption reduces public participation and transparency in decision-making processes, limiting community input and scrutiny. It can undermine the rights and interests of Indigenous communities, as their concerns and traditional lands may not be adequately considered. Additionally, cumulative environmental impacts may not be accounted for, leading to long-term degradation of the environment. Potential negative impacts on local economies, such as tourism and agriculture, may not be properly evaluated and mitigated. Overall, exemptions compromise environmental protection, public health, and community involvement, leading to potentially irreversible damage.

Removing bike lanes is a bad idea for several reasons. Bike lanes provide a safe space for cyclists, reducing the risk of accidents and conflicts with motor vehicles. They encourage cycling as an alternative mode of transportation, helping to reduce traffic congestion. Promoting cycling over driving decreases air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a healthier environment. Cycling promotes physical activity, improving public health and reducing healthcare costs. Bike lanes can boost local economies by increasing foot traffic to businesses and reducing transportation costs for residents. They make cities more accessible to a diverse range of people, including those who cannot afford a car. Integrating bike lanes into urban planning supports sustainable and resilient city development. Overall, bike lanes are essential for creating safer, healthier, and more sustainable urban environments.

We should be using data and consideration of future generations to create good policy, not anecdotes. Sustainable, scalable, and safe modes of transportation should be prioritized, like walking, public transit, and biking - not personal vehicles.

Thank you.