It’s time to build world-class bikeways in Toronto
Re Toronto to close more streets for pedestrians, cyclists, May 22
When Toronto closed the eastbound lanes of Lake Shore Boulevard and parts of Bayview Avenue during the Victoria Day long weekend, I was pleased to see so many people biking, running and rollerblading while finally being able to practise physical distancing.
This part of ActiveTO should have been done weeks ago with the crowding on the Martin Goodman Trail and other recreational paths.
Another 50 kilometres of quiet streets have since been installed, which have seen mixed reviews at best.
However, Torontonians are still waiting to find out the details on plans to accelerate the bike plan. Since the plan was approved in June 2016, 21 kilometres have been installed, including just two kilometres last year.
In order to catch up on the bike plan and address the reality of COVID-19, more than 100 community organizations have signed an open letter calling on Mayor John Tory and city council to build 100 kilometres of bikeways, including on Bloor, Danforth, Yonge and other busy TTC surface routes. A petition has since been signed by almost 5,000 people and counting.
It’s time Toronto catches up to other world-class cities in providing safe spaces for people who bike across the city. Robert Zaichkowski, Toronto