As a cyclist and parent of…

As a cyclist and parent of two children in Toronto, I’ve seen firsthand how vital our municipal bike lanes are for the safety and well-being of cyclists, pedestrians, and even drivers. These lanes provide a protected space that helps reduce accidents, encourages more people to bike, and contributes to cleaner air by reducing car dependence. The Ontario government's interference in these lanes could undo years of progress we’ve made in creating a safer, more sustainable city.

Toronto’s bike lanes are designed based on local needs and expertise, taking into account the unique layout and congestion of our streets. Provincial interference risks imposing one-size-fits-all solutions that may not be suited for the diverse neighborhoods and cycling conditions here. Moreover, the city has a clear mandate to prioritize sustainable transportation options, and removing or reducing bike lanes would undermine that goal.

There’s also the issue of induced demand—an economic principle that suggests building more vehicle lanes to alleviate traffic actually leads to more cars on the road, worsening congestion over time. Studies from cities like Vancouver and New York show that expanding roads can temporarily reduce traffic, but it encourages more people to drive, eventually leading to even worse gridlock. Instead of building more lanes for cars, we should be investing in infrastructure that encourages alternatives like cycling, which can help reduce traffic congestion and improve quality of life for everyone.

Cycling is a key part of the solution to Toronto’s traffic congestion and environmental issues. The city's efforts to expand bike lanes have made cycling more accessible and less intimidating, especially for newcomers or those who are less experienced. We need the Ontario government to support Toronto's bike infrastructure decisions, not interfere with them. After all, no one understands Toronto's cycling needs better than the people who live and bike here.