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- calendar_today October 26, 2026
Cycle Toronto Launches a Free ‘Bike Bus’ Initiative
On Election Day, cyclists navigating Bloor Street West between Islington and Royal York will have access to a safer option for reaching polling stations. Cycle Toronto, a member-supported charity, has introduced a free group ride known as the “Bike Bus,” responding to recent changes impacting bike infrastructure in the area.
Background: Protected Bike Lanes Removed
The initiative comes after the Ford government recently eliminated 1.2 kilometres of protected bike lanes along a busy corridor of Bloor Street West. This removal has raised concerns about road safety for cyclists, especially those traveling alone, as the affected stretch now lacks dedicated infrastructure meant to protect them from traffic.
How the Bike Bus Operates
Cycle Toronto’s Bike Bus will run every 15 minutes, offering scheduled group rides between 8 a.m. and noon, and again from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Cyclists will travel together as a group, collectively “taking the lane” in full compliance with Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act. This approach is designed to ensure heightened safety through strength in numbers as riders make their way to various polling stations.
Purpose: Supporting Election Day Cycling and Road Safety
The purpose of the Bike Bus goes beyond providing an alternative commute. By guiding cyclists safely through the newly unprotected corridor, Cycle Toronto aims to maintain safe access to polling stations. Executive director Michael Longfield described the removal of the Bloor Street West bike lanes as “the first step targeting the removal of 19 km of bike lanes that won’t solve traffic congestion and will cost Ontario taxpayers nearly $50 million.”
Anticipated Impact on Traffic and Public Message
Cyclists participating in the Bike Bus will take the travel lane as a group, and minor delays for drivers are expected as a result. Longfield addressed this directly, stating, “We apologise in advance to drivers who can expect delays of up to 48 seconds along this 1.2 km corridor as cyclists safely take the lane together.” The Bike Bus emphasizes lawful group cycling and road sharing, highlighting the importance of protected bike lanes in urban planning and safety.
Further Information for Cyclists
The full schedule for the Bike Bus is available from Cycle Toronto for any interested participants. The group invites cyclists of all backgrounds to join the ride and use this collaborative option to access polling stations on Election Day while highlighting the ongoing conversation about bike infrastructure, group cycling, and road safety in the city.
Source: nowtoronto.com.
