A few days ago, I was out for a walk at sunset along 132 Avenue. A lot of other people were out there, as well. I've noticed that often around sunset there are families and groups of friends out, enjoying and gathering in the 3rd space that the avenue has become. More than once, I've seen a group of mothers gathered with their lawn chairs, while their kids bike, scoot and play at the playground along the avenue. It's not unusual for this group to be close to 50 people. It's absolutely wholesome and is a result of the design of 132 Avenue being people and not car-centered.
This scene has the potential to be replicated all along 132 Avenue, as the construction is completed, later this fall and then with the final stage next year. Spaces for strangers to become aunties, where moms find companions and kids are out in the evening on bikes and at the park, just like the good old days.
Unfortunately, the provincial government is planning legislation for this fall that will put all of this in jeopardy. Even worse, they were waiting for Ontario's court case to determine whether Premier Ford has the right to rip out bike lanes and last week Ford won. Just because they have the legal right doesn't mean they have the political will.
Those of us putting forward a human-centred vision for transportation; for physical, emotional, social, fiscal and environmental health, will be working hard to make sure the government knows they do not have the will of the people to halt or take out spaces for humans. Please join us door-knocking tomorrow, August 18th at 5:00 pm, at other actions outlined by the YEG Bike Coalition below or on a ride this week.
