Bike Lanes

Bike Lanes

Written by Carter Ross

Ever since their introduction in 2017, Victoria’s protected bike lanes have been grounds for controversy and debate.

 The bike lanes are often criticized for removing options for parking, a problem that is already very present in downtown Victoria, as well as making right turns impossible in several locations. The project also reportedly cost upwards of 6 million dollars, a price tag that is frequently brought up in conversations bashing the project. Those who are for the bike lanes think differently, however, claiming that the lanes will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, helping to combat climate change and that the effects on motorists are either inconsequential in relation to the problems it hopes to solve, and will in response drive more citizens to take up cycling.

I, for one, understand both sides of the argument and find myself sitting in the middle of the two groups. I understand the gravity of climate change and believe that anything and everything should be done to attempt to combat it. I think that attempting to make cycling more accessible in downtown Victoria is a great idea and would not only help to combat climate change but also to help improve personal health for many citizens.

This idea, however, is quite complicated and will be difficult to implement perfectly. For this idea to work, and to actually make a difference to the point that the price tag becomes worth it, people need to actually take the initiative to spend the extra time and energy to get out and cycle to work each day. This is something that is extremely unlikely as people are, for the most part, naturally lazy and would rather commute faster, warmer, and with less effort than would require of them if they were to cycle. I also disagree with the way that these bike lanes have been implemented. In creating these two way protected bike lanes that are both on the same side of the road, the lanes are removing options for parking, which is a commodity in Victoria, and removing right turns, making the city all the more confusing to try and navigate for those who are less acquainted. This is not to say that I want the bike lanes removed or production to be stopped. In fact I support the introduction of new opportunities for cyclists, however, I think that the current plan is flawed and some restructuring would benefit both cyclists and motorists alike.