By Marco Campana (Knowledge Mobilization and Social Action Coordinator, Access Alliance)
On February 27, 2025 Access Alliance Health Promoter and Bike Hub Coordinator Marvin Macaraig deputed to Toronto City Council on planned increases to cycling infrastructure in the City.
While the plan includes a number of useful cycling infrastructure and additions, one in particular impacts the communities we serve in East Toronto/Scarborough, on Ellesmere Road between Orton Park Road and Kingston Road. According to the City planned City roadwork provides “an opportunity to improve safety, accessibility, and operations for all people using the street.
The project proposes cycle tracks, multi-use trails, safety and accessibility improvements, and other design elements. This project does not involve motor vehicle lane removals.”
As Marvin has previously written, bike lanes are part of a healthy, safe, and equitable Toronto. Fostering a community where people can learn from each other and build strong supportive social networks includes more people riding in safer conditions.
We’re excited how this plan considers the needs of all road users while emphasizing the safety of vulnerable road users. (i.e., people cycling/walking, young children, the elderly, or those who require accessibility devices or use strollers etc.)
We’re happy to report that the motion was amended and adopted by the committee. It now goes to Council for a vote with a recommendation for adoption from committee. We expect it to pass and look forward to even more connected and safe cycle paths for cyclists and pedestrians.
You can watch Marvin’s deputation here and read his remarks below: