Cycling advocates react to proposed bike lane restrictions requiring removal of traffic lanes [Video]

The provincial government is considering new rules to restrict a municipality’s ability to install new bike lanes if it means traffic lanes would be removed.

The proposal is expected be part of a gridlock reduction bill being tabled this fall.

Ontario’s Transportation Minister was asked about it on Friday morning.

“We examine a multitude of proposals when it comes to congestion management,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria. “Every [legislative] session that we get a chance we are looking at ways to make life easier for people and we are looking at ways to reduce gridlock in this province.”

Reaction in Waterloo Region

CTV News asked cycling advocates for their reaction and they expressed disappointment and skepticism over the proposal, saying the current setup is better for both for cyclists and drivers.

“Having the separate infrastructure makes things safer for everyone,” said Janice Jim, vice-president of the advocacy group Cycle WR. “These cycling lanes are very well thought out. They’re planned years …