Ontario Plans to Remove Toronto Bike Lanes

The Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, is moving forward with plans to remove bike lanes from Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue in Toronto, citing increased traffic congestion as a primary reason. This initiative is part of a broader regulation that requires municipalities to seek provincial approval for any new bike lanes that would involve removing vehicle traffic lanes. Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria emphasized that the province loses $11 billion annually due to congestion and argued that bike lanes should be situated on secondary roads instead. Critics, including Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and various cycling advocates, have condemned the move, asserting it undermines urban cycling infrastructure and could lead to increased road safety issues. The proposed regulation is open for public comment until November 20, 2024, as the government considers further bike lane removals throughout the city. The Association of Municipalities of Ontario has also criticized the legislation, labeling it a significant overreach of provincial authority.