Concerned Guelph, Ont. residents are taking to the streets on Monday to call for the return of winter maintenance on the city’s bike lanes.
They are arguing the decision affects far more than year-round cyclists.
Local riders and supporters are invited to meet at the Quebec Street Mall at 5:30 p.m., gathering near the heart statue. A protest ride will roll out at 6 p.m.
Bigger than bikes
Organizers say the lack of winter clearing has all kinds of problems in the city. Snow buildup in bike lanes has been linked to blocked storm drains, disrupted garbage collection, reduced access to transit stops. There’s also been the loss of on-street parking in several neighbourhoods.
All out in Guelph tonight! Dress warm & tell Mayor Guthrie & some of his councillors that closing bike lanes is more a Doug Ford vibe, but even he was unsuccessful at that. pic.twitter.com/dWVArI84g4
— The Biking Lawyer (Dave Shellnutt) (@TheBikingLawyer) December 15, 2025
Guelph’s bicycle mayor, Andrea Bidgood, has framed the issue as a citywide concern. In a social media post, she noted the decision “isn’t just about people who bike in the winter,” adding that a single policy change can affect how the entire city functions.
The ride will travel from downtown to the city’s newer cycling infrastructure. The hope is that participants can underscore the importance of keeping active transportation routes usable year-round.
Organizers are also encouraging residents to contact city council and ask that bike lanes be included in regular winter maintenance going forward.
The decision was passed at a special council meeting on Nov. 26. It means all painted bike lanes, curb-protected lanes and boulevard cycle tracks will be closed each winter via bylaw, with no snow or ice clearing until spring. Signs will be posted to alert the public.
Cycing advocates and legal experts warned it could increase safety risks. “Forcing cyclists out of bike lanes and into motor vehicle traffic in winter conditions will increase conflict. And the likelihood of serious injury,” said David Shellnutt, a.k.a. The Biking Lawyer, in a letter to Mayor Cam Guthrie and council.
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