I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 212, the Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act. I am deeply concerned about the potential implications this bill poses for urban mobility, transportation equity, and environmental sustainability in Ontario.

Bill 212 proposes unprecedented provincial control over municipal transportation infrastructure, specifically in mandating provincial approval for the installation of bike lanes that repurpose existing motor vehicle lanes. This approach undermines the ability of municipalities to design transportation solutions tailored to their unique needs. Furthermore, it fails to recognize the well-documented benefits that bike lanes bring to urban environments, including traffic congestion relief, emission reduction, economic development, and enhanced public health.

Additionally, Bill 212’s prioritization of Highway 413 construction is concerning. The government’s own modeling shows that this highway will bring very limited benefits to the transportation network and fails to meaningfully address congestion. Decades of research consistently demonstrate that expanding highway capacity ultimately induces more driving demand, leading to further congestion and pollution in the long term. Rather than investing in a project with limited effectiveness, Ontario should prioritize maximizing the use of existing infrastructure through travel demand management and congestion pricing, which are proven methods to reduce highway congestion. Complementing these approaches with investments in extensive transit and cycling alternatives will deliver more sustainable, resilient, and efficient outcomes for our transportation system.

Most importantly, Bill 212 contradicts the principles of Vision Zero, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries. Ontario has already experienced too many tragic losses of pedestrians and cyclists. By restricting the ability of municipalities to implement dedicated bike lanes and other safety measures, this legislation would almost certainly increase the risk of fatalities for vulnerable road users. Every death that could have been prevented by safer infrastructure will be a direct consequence of these policies, and the responsibility for these lives lost will rest with the provincial government. We must prioritize the safety of all road users by empowering local governments to implement proven strategies that protect the most vulnerable.

Ontario’s cities are actively working towards transportation equity, offering mobility choices that accommodate people of all ages and abilities. Many residents cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. Providing safe, accessible bike lanes is essential to ensuring their mobility. Removing these facilities would disproportionately impact those who depend on cycling infrastructure, undermining their right to safe and accessible transportation.

I urge you to reconsider this legislation and to collaborate with municipalities, transportation experts, and community advocates to develop a plan that genuinely addresses Ontario’s congestion issues by promoting an integrated, equitable, and sustainable transportation system that protects all road users.

Thank you for your attention to these concerns.