Toronto isn’t the only Ontario city that may see bike lanes removed — Guelph, could as well, thanks to its Mayor Cam Guthrie. Guthrie announced plans to pause future bike lanes and remove existing ones.
In a recent social media post, Guthrie said he’s “investigating the newly created Scottsdale bike lanes to see if there is the possibility of them being removed. And re-evaluating the impacts on Silvercreek too.” He explained this move was driven by constituent feedback.
The race to remove
Premier Doug Ford and the Progressive Conservative government recently passed legislation requiring municipalities to get provincial approval before installing bike lanes that reduce vehicle traffic lanes. With Bill 212 now enacted, the province also has the power to remove bike lanes on Toronto’s Bloor, Yonge, and University avenues — a decision strongly opposed by cycling advocates.
Pyrrhic or prophetic victory? Cycling advocates delay bike lane removal in Toronto
Advocacy group Cycle Toronto recently filed a court challenge against Bill 212. It argued the law violates cyclists’ Charter rights to life and security. This legal action delayed the removal of those critical bike lanes until March.
In an interview with GuelphToday, Guthrie said his motion is largely because the cycling master plan was completed just before he became mayor in 2013 and is set to be updated in 2025.
More feedback needed
“I think the active transportation world has really changed quite a bit in 12 years. Especially in terms of the types of infrastructure we can implement to support cycling,” he said.
Guthrie said the work could take up to 18 months. He believes any impacts on lanes or parking should pause for public engagement.
“While the update is happening, let’s pause for a moment. If there isn’t anything that affects the removal of a vehicle lane or on-street parking, that’s fine. I actually think we could do better,” he said. “If we’re going to build infrastructure, I’d rather have something better suited to active transportation.”
Timing is everything?
He admitted the timing — right before winter — likely frustrated many residents. He believes collecting data in spring and summer will give a clearer picture of the lanes’ effectiveness. He suggested multi-use paths, like those on Woodlawn Road, are ideal. However, space constraints and existing infrastructure in older areas complicate options.
Guthrie supports active transportation and…
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