Toronto’s new mayor biked to work on first day and local cyclists loved it

Toronto’s new mayor, Olivia Chow, joined a large group of cyclists on her way to City Hall for her first day of work. Chow recently won the by-election on June 26, following previous mayor John Tory’s resignation. Tory stepped down following news that he had an extra-marital affair, made even worse by the fact that it was during a time when he urged Torontonians to stay at home because of COVID-19.

What an amazing way to kickoff a new era at City Hall! Cycled into City Hall with @CycleToronto, Mayor-Elect @oliviachow and a huge entourage of cyclists this morning! It’s going to be a great day! #topoli #bikeTO pic.twitter.com/THR1xKHIio

— Norm Di Pasquale (@normsworld) July 12, 2023

Toronto cycling advocate Robin Richardson’s optimism echoed many of the cyclists who rode with Chow to work.
“I feel hopeful in a way I haven’t in a long time,” Robin Richardson said.

Thanks for joining me on my morning commute, @CycleToronto! pic.twitter.com/RFWkhlpQV0

— Olivia Chow (@oliviachow) July 12, 2023

After several of the mayoral candidates called for removal of essential cycling infrastructure, the election of Chow was a welcome relief for riders in the capital of Ontario.

Advocacy group CycleToronto organized the 20-minute ride.

What a morning! Congratulations to Mayor Olivia Chow on her inaugural day in office. It was a pleasure to ride with her down to City Hall.

Thanks to all who came to showcase the diverse group of people who ride bikes across Toronto. pic.twitter.com/bnVB89NY9H

— Cycle Toronto (@CycleToronto) July 12, 2023

Chow uses her bike to commute all-year round, and does not own a car.

“I feel so blessed to be able to come to work on my first day of being the mayor of this great city of ours with hundreds of cyclists,” she said. “I was also picturing, if all of us were in a car, there’d be serious traffic problems.”