I am extremely concerned…

I am extremely concerned about the amendment to Bill 212 that allows the Province to unilaterally remove cycling projects such as Bloor, Yonge and University. I am a 67 year old grandmother who uses those lanes almost every day to get to where I need to go - whether it is shopping, going to appointments, classes or visiting my son and his family, who live not far from Bloor. Take these lanes away and I will be back in my car - adding to congestion.

These projects all underwent rigorous consultations, pilot periods and extensive design modifications based on community feedback. There is no evidence that they are causing gridlock and the increased travel time is a modest tradeoff when compared to the benefits for those not in a car. There is evidence that more and more people are cycling and walking here and that businesses are not suffering as was predicted. In addition, the cost of removal plus the sunk costs of installation is an unreasonable waste of my tax dollars as a resident of Toronto and of Ontario. More importantly, removal of these important safety improvements for people walking and cycling will put more lives at risk.

Please reject this amendment.