I agree that bike lanes can…

I agree that bike lanes can be provided where feasible. I vehemently disagree with the implementation in Toronto. Whoever determined and agreed to remove a traffic lane to implement bicycle lanes has ignored facts of existence.

I believe Toronto was – and is - built around traffic - automobile, truck, delivery van, police, ambulance, firetruck, or any other public, private, or corporate mode. Each is necessary for people, goods and services to be provided to Toronto citizens and businesses.

Along Bloor (South Kingsway through Royal York and Islington) removing a traffic lane has resulted in gridlock morning, afternoon, and evening. There is a TTC Subway underneath.

My observations: insufficient bicycle traffic to offset the resulting traffic impediment. This implementation has prevented Wheel-Trans vehicles from providing service. These lanes have also removed access to on-street parking, deliveries, and clients, affecting local businesses and services -- how many have evaporated because access has become more difficult?

How much fuel is being wasted and additional exhaust being created by these bicycle lanes? Making a left turn has become difficult, and traffic on residential side streets is out of control as frustrated drivers attempt to get around the gridlock delays; impatience and frustration have increased dramatically since the bicycle lanes removed a lane of traffic.

We are serviced by neighbourhood police, ambulance, and fire stations – but flashing lights, sirens, and klaxons cannot move traffic that has become immobile. Or are we waiting for a tragedy to occur before we take corrective measures? When the inevitable happens, will the people who approved and implemented these bike lanes take responsibility for property damage and life-threatening incidents?

Thank you for the opportunity to voice my concerns.