I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my concerns regarding Bill 212, which appears to prioritize the construction of Highway 413 while reducing support for active transportation infrastructure such as bike lanes. While I understand the intent of alleviating traffic on Highway 401, expanding highways is a short-term solution that often leads to induced demand and ultimately increasing congestion rather than reducing it.

Investing in sustainable alternatives like public transit and cycling infrastructure has been consistently proven to be more effective in reducing traffic congestion and lowering emissions. By discouraging bike lanes, we risk further entrenching car dependency, neglecting the health, environmental, and community benefits that active transportation brings.

Additionally, the proposed Highway 413 raises significant environmental concerns. Building this toll road through Ontario Crown Lands would lead to the destruction of vital natural habitats, threaten biodiversity, and compromise green spaces that are essential to our province’s ecological health. Once these lands are developed, their loss is irreversible.

I urge the government to reconsider the approach outlined in Bill 212. Instead of expanding highways, let us prioritize investments in robust public transit systems and active transportation infrastructure. These solutions align better with long-term sustainability goals and the needs of Ontario’s growing population.