The Ontario government is expected to announce plans to remove bike lanes on Queen’s Park Crescent and Avenue Road, south of Davenport Road, during the budget announcement on Thursday. This move is part of a broader effort by the Ford government to reassess bike lanes across the province.
Premier’s Stance
In a press conference earlier this week, Premier Doug Ford was asked if he was targeting other bike lanes for removal. His response was clear:
"Not right now."
However, sources close to the matter have confirmed that more bike lanes are indeed in the crosshairs. Ford has stated that he is not opposed to bike lanes in general but wants them built on side roads rather than main arterial roads. He emphasized:
"I’m not against bike lanes. I just want to get these things moving … Build all the bike lanes you want, just not on main arterial roads."
Controversy Among Cycling Advocates
This stance has sparked controversy among cycling advocates who claim that removing certain routes would increase their safety risk, potentially violating their constitutional rights under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. An injunction has been issued, forcing the province to hold off from removing three Toronto bicycle paths – Yonge Street, Bloor Street, and University Avenue – until an Ontario judge makes a decision regarding this challenge.
Bill 212
The three affected bicycle paths were originally included in Bill 212, which requires municipalities across Ontario – including Toronto – to seek provincial approval before installing new bicycle paths if doing so results in a reduction of vehicle travel lane capacity. The bill was passed into law last fall as part of controversial legislation aimed at increasing housing supply through zoning changes that allow developers to build taller buildings closer together without needing permission from local councils.
Impact on Low-Income Residents
Cycling advocates argue that removing these routes would disproportionately affect low-income residents who rely heavily on cycling for transportation due to a lack of access or affordability with cars or transit options such as buses or trains, which often require transfers. They point out that many people cycle because they cannot afford cars or do not have access to one; therefore, any reduction could be seen as discriminatory towards those individuals who are already vulnerable members of society.
Government Response
A spokesperson for Transportation Minister Caroline Mulroney did not confirm whether any other cities will see similar changes when asked about potential targets beyond Toronto during an interview with Global News Radio 640 AM.
"We’re working closely with municipalities across Ontario," she said when pressed further about what specific areas might be impacted next. "Any decisions related specifically around infrastructure projects will be made after we’ve had discussions with our municipal partners."
It remains unclear how many cities may face similar challenges ahead following the announcement regarding plans affecting two major downtown streets where thousands commute daily via public transit systems like GO Trains and Buses.
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