Etobicoke bike lane removal begins amid cycling protests

Construction began on October 13, 2026, to remove a section of bike lanes on Bloor Street West in Etobicoke, Toronto, following a provincial government mandate. The removal process has met with significant opposition from cycling advocates and local officials.

Advocacy groups, including Advocacy for Respect for Cyclists, organized demonstrations to disrupt the removal process. On the first day of construction, cyclists occupied the lanes between Islington and Royal York. While protesters and police were present, a compromise was reached that allowed construction vehicles to depart the immediate area.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow criticized the decision, describing the provincial government’s actions as “outrageous” and an overstep of its mandate. Additionally, Cycle Toronto questioned the $48 million cost associated with the redesign of the 19-kilometre stretch. Although a lower court previously ruled the plan posed unconstitutional risks to cyclist safety, the Ontario Court of Appeal upheld the province’s authority to redesign public roadways.