Bill 212 Charter Challenge

On Wednesday, Cycle Toronto – along with fellow applicants Eva Stanger-Ross and Narada Kiondo – had their day in court to pursue a Charter challenge against the Ford government’s plans to remove bike lanes. The challenge targets Section 195.6 of the Highway Traffic Act (originally in Bill 212), which requires the removal of bike lanes on Bloor, Yonge, and University. The applicants are represented by Andrew Lewis of Paliaire Roland and Bronwyn Roe of the non-profit Ecojustice, while Greenpeace, For Our Kids Toronto, and the Canadian Public Health Association appeared as intervenors. Both the main and overflow courtrooms were full for the occasion while Justice Paul Schabas presided over the session which focused on Section 7.

Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice.

Cycle Toronto's "Rally for Justice" held the day before the April 16 Charter challenge

Your December 2024 #BikeTO Roundup

It’s hard to believe, but another year is almost over, and it’s been quite the rollercoaster with the Bill 212 fiasco and all. With two more weeks to go, a lot has popped up which warrants a roundup post of its own. This includes a couple of updates regarding Bill 212, the East Don Trail, the Ellesmere Complete Street project, and some upcoming group rides. Let’s dive in to see what December 2024 has to offer!

A banner ridiculing Doug Ford's war on bike lanes found over the Gardiner (via Martin Reis)

It’s Time to Fill the Mid-Humber Gap

On Wednesday, November 15, the City of Toronto and Queen’s Park were scheduled to face off in Divisional Court over yet another instance of interference by the Ford government in Toronto’s affairs; the case of the Mid-Humber Gap. This much-needed improvement to the Humber River trail from St. Phillips Road to Cardell Avenue was approved by Toronto City Council in July 2022. It would allow for a continuous ride from the waterfront to Steeles Avenue in western Toronto, as well as build out the larger Loop Trail along with the Finch Hydro Corridor, Don River, and Martin Goodman Trails.

Rendering of the Mid-Humber Gap (via City of Toronto)