Toronto cyclists fight back: Charter challenge launched over Ford’s bike lane cuts – NOW Toronto

Toronto cyclists have launched a Charter challenge against the provincial government’s controversial legislation to remove bike lanes from the city’s busiest roads. 

Cycle Toronto, a member-supported charity, argues that the upcoming removal of bike lanes on Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue will put lives at risk.

“It is not about tackling congestion, working with municipalities for data-driven solutions, or giving people more transportation options. It is unprecedented jurisdictional overreach undermining local democracy that will cost taxpayers millions of dollars and jeopardize the safety of cyclists, ” Michael Longfield of Cycle Toronto said in a statement on Wednesday. 

Last month, Premier Doug Ford’s government passed Bill 212, which gives the province power to override municipal decisions regarding bike lane installations. The law also requires provincial approval for new bike lanes and is part of a broader effort to ease traffic congestion. 

However, Cycle Toronto challenges the government’s claim that removing bike lanes will alleviate traffic, pointing to research showing that protected bike lanes are both safer for cyclists and have minimal impact on vehicle traffic.

The group adds the law infringes on the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, violating the rights of cyclists and pedestrians. Additionally, the group claims the law protects the government from lawsuits where a person is hurt or killed after the removal of bike lanes. 

The law is also expected to cost taxpayers an estimated $48 million to remove the existing bike lanes, which were originally installed at a cost of $27 million. 

CYCLE TORONTO MEMBER INJURED FROM DOORING

Coincidentally, Longfield was injured in a ‘dooring’ accident on Monday—when a car door was opened in his path while he was riding in a painted bike lane. 

Longfield, who could not attend a press conference on Wednesday due to the injury, underwent surgery and is currently recovering in hospital. He emphasized the incident underscores the critical need for protected bike lanes, particularly on arterial roads like Bloor, Yonge, and University, which the provincial government now seeks to dismantle.

“It’s an all too common collision that speaks to the importance of protected bike lanes on arterial roads like Bloor, Yonge, and University the province has targeted for removal,” Longfield told Now Toronto on Thursday.

As Cycle Toronto’s injunction moves forward, the group and many supporters are calling for a reconsideration of the bill, urging the province to prioritize cyclist safety and local municipalities.