The premier’s decision has…

The premier’s decision has unfortunately not been data-driven and will:

1) Reduce affordability - travel costs are frequently the most impactful after shelter costs. Car ownership is the most expensive form of movement, negatively impacts those in low-income groups disproportionately and the supporting car-based infrastructure is a high drain on tax payer dollars. Offering multiple modes of transit provides transportation equity and better bang for your buck.

2) Reduce road safety - all road users (pedestrians, cyclists, car users and public transit) are safer when roads are fairly divided and segmented for different road users. Cyclists do not drift into roadways meant for cars or pedestrians and vice versa leading to accidents.

3) Increase congestion/ traffic - studies show that the only effective means of reducing traffic is to provide alternate modes of travel. The more individuals are forced into car use due to non-existent or unsafe cycling conditions, the more existing car users will see the increased traffic on their routes.

4) Reduce health and well-being - transportation is the highest source of emissions in Canada. Poor air quality impacts mental health and cognitive functioning. Climate change is driving a slew of issues ranging from health to infrastructure. Offering alternate transit modes such as cycling is imperative.