The recent decision by the Court of Appeal for Ontario has granted Premier Doug Ford’s government the authority to remove 19 kilometers of protected bike lanes in Toronto. This ruling overturns a previous judgment from July 2025. Initially enacted in 2024, the legislation allowing the removal of bike lanes on Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue faced legal opposition from Cycle Toronto and other advocacy groups.
In the previous ruling, Ontario Superior Court Justice Paul Schabas deemed the removal unconstitutional, citing increased risks to public safety and the right to life and security. However, the Appeal Court judges contended that there is no constitutional mandate to dictate road usage regulations, supporting the government’s stance that eliminating bike lanes would alleviate traffic congestion.
According to the appellate decision, concerns raised in the earlier ruling about potential injuries and fatalities were dismissed as exaggerated, asserting that such risks would only materialize if cyclists opted to ride on roads lacking designated lanes. Ontario’s transportation minister, Prabmeet Sarkaria, praised the verdict, emphasizing the importance of upholding the legislative process.
Following the court’s decision, Premier Ford expressed satisfaction, while critics accused him of prioritizing control over Toronto’s urban planning. Cycle Toronto’s executive director, Michael Longfield, criticized the ruling for disregarding evidence-based policymaking and safety considerations related to traffic congestion.
Despite internal documents revealing the government’s awareness of potential negative outcomes, the Appeal Court maintained that expert advice is not binding on legislative decisions. The city of Toronto aims to collaborate with the province to balance road safety for all users, emphasizing the need for inclusive urban planning.
Toronto mayoral candidate Brad Bradford supported the court’s ruling, advocating for local governance in street planning. He urged cooperation between the city and the provincial government to address transportation challenges effectively. Mayor Olivia Chow expressed disappointment with the court’s decision, emphasizing the city’s autonomy in shaping its future direction.