Toronto Cyclists Confront Snow-Blocked Lanes After Record Storm
In Toronto, cyclists are facing significant challenges following a record snowfall that blanketed the city. Concerns over safety have been raised by various cyclists, including delivery workers who have been forced to ride alongside traffic due to snow-blocked bike lanes.
Impact of Snow-Blocked Lanes on Cyclists
Karan Singh, an Uber delivery worker, expressed his frustration about the unrideable bike lanes. He noted that cycling in the street is a “very scary” experience, as aggressive drivers often honk or pass unsafely. For delivery workers like Singh, staying home is not an option due to the financial pressure of missed workdays.
Advocacy and Safety Concerns
David Shellnutt, a lawyer and biking advocate, echoes these concerns. He reported that prominent bike lanes, such as those on Bloor Street and University Avenue, remain choked with snow a week after the snowfall. As a founding member of the Toronto Bike Brigade, Shellnutt highlighted that many volunteers have stepped back from food deliveries because of safety fears.
- Snow-covered bike lanes leave cyclists vulnerable on city streets.
- Shellnutt refers to the experience of riding in traffic as “swimming with the sharks.”
- He warns of potential spikes in bike-vehicle collisions due to blocked lanes.
Calls for Action
Michael Longfield of Cycle Toronto urged city authorities to clarify their snow removal plans for bike lanes. He acknowledged public patience following the major snowfall, but emphasized the need for timely communication regarding the clearance efforts. “It’s been a week, and there’s uncertainty over when these bikeways will be usable,” he stated.
City’s Response to Snow Removal
The City of Toronto acknowledged the extensive snow removal efforts required. According to city officials, approximately 260 maintenance calls regarding bike lanes were received in the last week alone, a figure that represents only 1.6 percent of all winter maintenance inquiries.
| Key Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Length of Bikeways | 956 kilometres |
| Maintenance Calls | Approximately 260 for bike lanes in one week |
| Percentage of Winter Maintenance Calls | 1.6% |
The city continues to work on clearing the bike lanes but has not provided a clear timeline due to the sheer volume of snow and the scale of the city. Officials noted that under heavy snowfall, clearing efforts can be complicated by the accumulation of snow from passing traffic and plowing operations.
As Toronto cyclists await the clearance of snow-blocked lanes, the call for improved communication and safety measures remains critical. Cyclists are eager to see action that ensures the safety of all who navigate the city’s roads.
