I would like to express my…

I would like to express my concern regarding Bill 212, which proposes the removal of bike lanes along Bloor, University, and Yonge streets in Toronto to accommodate increased vehicular traffic flow. I believe this proposal does not effectively address the underlying issues of congestion and may exacerbate existing challenges relating to road safety and emissions. My concerns are as follows:

1. Congestion is not solved by adding lanes: Simply adding extra lanes has not been proven to resolve congestion, as evidenced by persistent traffic issues on streets like Dupont. When more lanes are added, parked cars and bicycles often push traffic into the middle lane, causing vehicles to weave in and out, which not only disrupts the flow of traffic but also increases risks for both drivers and cyclists. This is not a sustainable or safe solution.

2. Reducing congestion requires reducing car dependence: Congestion relief can only be achieved by reducing reliance on cars. This requires investment in safe, effective alternatives, such as expanding affordable public transportation and active travel infrastructure, including bike lanes. Removing bike lanes and limiting future infrastructure development is a step backward in fostering a more sustainable and efficient transportation system. Cities like Montreal, Paris, and London have shown that comprehensive infrastructure investment, coupled with strategies like congestion charging, has proven effective in reducing traffic congestion.

3. Safety for cyclists and the environment: As a resident of Toronto who hopes to raise a family here, I want my children to be able to safely navigate the city by bike or foot, free from the dangers, noise, and pollution caused by an over-reliance on cars. Safe cycling infrastructure is crucial to both protect cyclists - who already face significant risks, including fatalities - and encourage cycling as a viable, sustainable alternative to driving. A shift toward active transportation also brings the added benefits of reduced emissions and improved public health.

4. Pushing cyclists onto secondary roads is unsafe: Redirecting cyclists to narrower, secondary roads such as Huron presents additional risks, as there is often insufficient space for both cars and cyclists. This not only makes cycling less safe but also forces cyclists to travel further to reach their destinations. The current cycling infrastructure is already fragmented, and removing bike lanes exacerbates this disconnection, pushing cyclists into high-traffic areas where safety is compromised. Instead, we should be working to expand and connect bike lanes.

5. Local decision-making should be respected: I am also concerned about the Ontario government's intervention in undermining the authority of municipalities. Decisions regarding transportation infrastructure and safety should be made by the City of Toronto, as they are best positioned to understand the needs and concerns of local residents.

In conclusion, I urge the government to reconsider the removal of bike lanes and prioritize solutions that reduce congestion in a sustainable and safe manner.