I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 212 and the Highway 413 Act, 2024. After careful consideration, it is clear that this legislation fails to address its stated goal of reducing gridlock while introducing significant risks to Ontario’s environment, economy, and public health.

Highway 413, which is exempt from environmental assessments under this bill, will destroy crucial Greenbelt lands, including wetlands and farmland. These areas are vital for flood prevention, carbon storage, and biodiversity. Environmental Defence has reported that Highway 413 will pave over 400 acres of this protected land, irreparably harming our ecosystem. Exempting a project of this scale from proper oversight undermines the integrity of Ontario’s environmental protections.

Furthermore, the removal of bike lanes contradicts well-established principles of sustainable urban planning. Bike lanes improve traffic flow, promote safer streets, and reduce emissions by encouraging active transportation. They also provide economic benefits, as demonstrated by increased retail sales along bike-friendly corridors in Toronto. Removing this infrastructure will lead to more congestion and undermine local economies.

The financial cost of Highway 413, projected at over $8 billion, is another cause for concern. This money could be better spent on public transit, healthcare, and affordable housing—areas that provide far greater economic and social returns. In short, Bill 212 prioritizes costly, outdated solutions over modern, sustainable alternatives.

I urge you to reconsider this legislation. Ontario’s future depends on bold, forward-thinking investments that prioritize environmental stewardship, public health, and fiscal responsibility.