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- calendar_today October 13, 2026
Etobicoke Residents Speak Out Ahead of Toronto Election
As Toronto’s municipal election on October 26 approaches, Etobicoke residents are raising critical issues for candidates to consider. Among their top concerns are traffic congestion, the impact of bike lanes, housing affordability, and opportunities for economic growth. With less than two weeks until the vote, these issues are shaping the conversation in the city’s west end.
Traffic Congestion and Bike Lanes Emerge as Major Issues
For some residents, the state of Toronto traffic—especially in Etobicoke—remains a central worry. Gary M., a local resident and cyclist, expressed frustration with congestion on city roads. He believes that underused bike lanes are contributing to the problem, particularly during the winter months.
“I understand people need to get around, and a bike is a great way to do it. I’m a cyclist myself, but Toronto is a new city. We’re not an old European city, so these things are sitting vacant during winter time, especially out here,” Gary said. He highlighted that lanes on major corridors like Bloor Street often appear empty, even in summer.
Concerns for Local Businesses and Emergency Vehicles
Jeff K., another Etobicoke resident, shared similar complaints about bike lanes in the Kingsway area. He argues that the new lanes have made it more difficult for traffic to flow and for emergency vehicles to pass through, affecting local businesses and safety.
“It’s all the businesses. The traffic’s terrible. Safety vehicles can’t get through. So it, yeah, it’s got to be fixed. It’s got to be fixed fast,” Jeff said. He feels that the perspectives of people who live and work in the area have been ignored in favor of environmental priorities.
Both Gary and Jeff call for the city to reconsider bike lane routes, suggesting they be relocated to secondary streets and reverting main arteries to their previous configurations.
Housing Affordability Remains a Pressing Problem
Other residents see affordable housing as a more urgent issue. Helen B. highlighted the growing number of individuals without access to stable housing in Toronto. “I would say there are too many people in this city who don’t have a place to live,” she observed.
She also mentioned the difficulty faced by those trying to purchase homes, noting the mismatch between rising prices and wage growth. “I see more and more people without housing, and I know that it’s almost impossible for people to buy housing unless you are in that upper category of wealth. So that’s unfortunate in all cities,” Helen said. She believes housing affordability demands a stronger focus alongside Toronto’s ongoing infrastructure needs.
Calls for Greater Economic Opportunity
George O., another resident, acknowledged the issue of housing affordability but pointed to a broader concern with economic opportunity. “The city, they’re not doing the best job about it. Honestly, affordability is a smaller issue than opportunity, and I feel like opportunity is the biggest issue right now,” George said, advocating for more action to help residents find paths to prosperity.
Election Approaches as Candidates Make Final Appeals
With the municipal election upcoming on October 26, candidates are making their final appeals to voters. Residents across Etobicoke hope that the next mayor and council will address their concerns on traffic congestion, the placement and usage of bike lanes, housing affordability, and economic prospects. The outcome may shape the direction of city infrastructure and urban planning for years to come as Toronto faces continued growth and evolving needs.
Source: nowtoronto.com.
