While the provincial government wants to hit the brakes on new bike lanes, a Newmarket cycling club warns the move could make streets more dangerous for cyclists.
Robert Spencer, a member of the Newmarket Eagles, regularly uses bike lanes on Leslie Street, which are a buffer between cyclists and motorists.
“Cyclists don’t have a safe option if they remove bike lanes,” said Spencer. “They would have to ride in mixed traffic at their peril.”
The Ford government is planning new anti-congestion legislation that could restrict municipalities from installing new bike lanes if they remove lanes for vehicles. The move is part of a broader strategy to reduce gridlock and traffic problems, particularly on major roadways.
Even with bike lanes, busy streets can pose safety issues for cyclists, Spencer said.
“I try to avoid rush hour for my safety,” said Spencer.
Spencer is a recreational cyclist and also uses his bike for light grocery shopping. He said he sometimes has to go on sidewalks if the roads are too busy and if there are no bike lanes. He would rather the province help municipalities add more bike lanes than prevent them.
“Cyclists would try to ride on the roads without pavement markings,” said Spencer. “They would be more exposed to collisions with motor vehicles. Motor vehicles would squeeze cyclists.”
The Town of Newmarket has 16 completed bike lane projects. Data from the town shows cyclists are using bike lanes. About 2,020 cyclists used bike lanes in June, 2,381 in July, and 2,022 in August.
The town suspended its active transportation implementation plan, which drew concerns from residents about the future of bike lanes. The municipality said it would provide an update this year, but legislation from the province this fall could hinder attempts to add more bike lanes.
York Regional Police has reported six cyclist fatalities in the region since 2019. This year, they launched a one-metre safety campaign to alert drivers and cyclists about safe road practices.
Police said there have been 754 incidents in which cyclists were injured in collisions with motor vehicles.
Dave Hammon, also an Eagles member, said cyclists must be mindful to be safe on the road, whether in a bike lane or not.
“You have to be defensive,” said Hammon. “Even though somebody may be doing something wrong, you will not win when you are on a bicycle.”
Spencer, who has had several close calls with vehicles on roads without pavement markings, underscores the importance of safety measures such as using a taillight and a helmet. He urges all cyclists to be cautious and prioritize their safety on the road.
