**1. Ensuring Safety for…

**1. Ensuring Safety for Cyclists**
Protected bike lanes are essential for safeguarding cyclists by creating a barrier between them and motor vehicles, reducing the risk of collisions. My experience cycling in Toronto for six months, particularly while doing delivery jobs, has shown how bike lanes prevent vehicles like cars, buses, and motorcycles from dangerously encroaching on cyclists. Without these barriers, cyclists are forced into close proximity with vehicles, especially during traffic congestion or bad weather. Protected bike lanes also mitigate risks when roads are slippery due to rain or snow, providing a safer, designated space for cyclists to ride without the fear of being splashed or hit if they slip.

**2. Encouraging Sustainable Transportation**
Bike lanes make cycling a viable and efficient commuting option for residents. They offer a faster, more reliable alternative to driving, especially in congested areas. From personal experience, riding on protected bike lanes significantly increased my efficiency compared to navigating regular roads or painted bike lanes, which often left me splitting through heavy traffic. Expanding bike lane networks will encourage more people to cycle, reducing the number of cars on the road and easing overall traffic congestion.

**3. Enhancing Urban Livability and Accessibility**
By supporting bike lanes, cities can offer a safer and more equitable transportation option for those who cannot afford cars or prefer not to drive. They reduce emissions and urban noise while improving access to businesses and services. In Toronto, where heavy rains often flood unprotected bike paths with water, debris, and leaves, protected bike lanes offer a vital safeguard for cyclists. They ensure smoother commutes and encourage active transportation, fostering a healthier, more livable city.

**4. Better Allocation of Resources**
Instead of spending millions to remove existing bike lanes, these funds could be redirected to expand protected bike lanes in high-traffic areas, improving safety and reducing accidents. Investing in bike lanes aligns with Toronto’s growth and sustainability goals, enhancing its appeal as a global, forward-thinking city.