As we approach amalgamation, the future of cycling infrastructure has seldom been more uncertain. One thing that is certain is that a majority of Metro residents want more bike lanes according to a recent Transition Team survey.
The chalk-paint lane is supported by a coalition of cyclists and environmental groups, stores and publications including The Bank, Advocacy for Respect for Cyclists (ARC), Bikes on Wheels, Grassroots, Feet on the Street, Transmission Magazine, The Media Collective, and HideouseWhiteNoise.
Throughout the day, cyclists worldwide will be promoting cycling as part of the solution to climate change just days before the international summit in Kyoto, by participating in Critical Mass rides and flying blue flags and ribbons.
"Cycling produces no greenhouse gases. If governments around the world are serious about reducing greenhouse gas emissions, then they should be promoting cycling," said Gabrielle Kuiper, co-coordinator of the Global Greenhouse Critical Mass. "That means more cycle paths, more bike stands, bike access on public transport, more traffic calming and less road building," added Kuiper.
"We have to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20%," said Lesley Wood, a member of ARC. "The new city of Toronto cannot pretend that Climate Change will go away. Our city needs bicycles as a part of a clean, quiet, safe and cheap transportation system," added Wood.