Ontario Premier Doug Ford is currently under fire for his controversial legislation concerning the removal of bike lanes, which critics argue jeopardizes the safety of cyclists throughout the province. The proposed bill, which includes amendments to prevent injured cyclists or their families from suing the government, is at the heart of the rising tensions between Ford’s administration and cycling advocates across Ontario.
Six cyclists have tragically lost their lives on Toronto's roads this year alone. When asked about these incidents during recent discussions, Ford expressed sympathy, stating, "My heart goes out to the families, and I'm so sorry, just like I'm sorry when people get in car accidents and motorcycle accidents and so on and so forth. That's terrible. We want to keep everyone safe." Yet, Ford emphasized the need to alleviate traffic congestion, pointing out how fire trucks often struggle to navigate congested streets. "That's what I want to save lives for, I want to save everyone's lives," he remarked.
Last month, the Ontario government disclosed plans to restrict new bike lanes on major arterial roads and evaluate the removal of several existing lanes. Among the affected streets are Yonge Street, University Avenue, and Bloor Street—key thoroughfares within the city. This move has alarmed many cycling activists who argue it threatens the very infrastructure necessary for the protection of cyclists. David Shellnut, one prominent cycling advocate, described the decision as detrimental to road safety, asserting, "If you remove the only barriers we have between motor vehicles, then the conflict points grow exponentially, and so will injuries and collisions."
Further complicate matters, the recent amendments to Bill 212 would effectively shield the government from lawsuits related to bike lane removals, making it impossible for injured cyclists or their bereaved families to seek legal recourse. NDP legislators voiced their concerns, citing the 11-page amendment as one more example of Ford's government disregarding the rights and safety of cyclists. Critics fear these changes not only undermine public safety but also erode local democracy.
Ford has downplayed the anticipated costs associated with the removal of bike lanes, countering the City of Toronto's estimates. A city report projected the expense of dismantling the bike lanes could reach at least $48 million. Ford claims, "I get it. I know the game they're playing, they're inflaming the cost. It's not going to cost as much." He insisted the removal would occur swiftly and at significantly lower costs than predicted.
The relationship between Mayor Olivia Chow and Premier Ford has become particularly noteworthy amid this heated debate. Although they often share differing views on policy, Ford characterized their discussions on the bike lanes as productive, saying he enjoys collaborating with Chow. “I have a phenomenal relationship with Mayor Chow. She's such a really good person, nice person,” Ford commented, hinting at their potential collaboration to remove the contentious Bloor West bike lanes.
Reflecting on the impact of these changes, Chow has stressed the value of bike lanes, noting their role in enhancing cyclist safety. She recalled the heartbreaking incident of a young woman who died cycling without the protection of dedicated bike lanes, stating, “Maybe her husband won't be grieving, and there are so many examples like this. We know six cyclists already passed away this year — which is higher than other years.”
Despite the backlash, Ford's administration appears resolute. The bill is expected to clear through the legislative process, likely passing next week, thereby transforming Ontario's biking infrastructure and potentially compromising cyclist safety. Observers are left anxious about what this means for cyclists and the overall state of road safety. Cycling advocates continue mobilizing efforts to oppose these changes, arguing for more supportive, safe, and inclusive cycling policies.
