Category: Transportation

The Peril of Placing Bike Paths Between Parked Cars and Sidewalks

Post author By Pierre
Post date October 4, 2023

Bike Lane Peril: Are Separated Paths a Danger for Cyclists and Pedestrians

The Quest for Safe Cycling

In recent times, the implementation of separated bicycle lanes, often nestled between parked cars and sidewalks, has been on the rise in various cities worldwide. The same is true of Montreal which has started implimenting such bike lanes across the city. One of the latest places that has seen such a path implemented is in the Park-Extension area and more specifically Querbes Avenue.

Proponents argue that these lanes promote cyclist safety and encourage a more active lifestyle. The mayor of the Borough insists that these new paths will improve security. Laurence Lavigne Lalonde, insisted that the cities studies showed that these changes were required and she would not want to wait until a kid gets hurt before taking action. Although the residents have been requesting access to said studies, it turns out that no such studies were done. However, a study conducted by the Community and Regional Planning Program in Denver, Colorado, raises significant concerns about the safety of such separated bicycle lanes.

What the Studies Have Found

The study conducted on the relationship between separated bicycle lanes and bicycle crashes in Denver, Colorado, delivered striking results. The research employed a Poisson Rate Regression analysis method, combining crash data with the current bicycle facilities in the city. The findings were statistically significant and revealed a startling trend – separated bicycle lanes were associated with more bicycle crashes than shared roads. These findings are mirrored in an IIHS study which found that street-level protected bike lanes like the one on Querbes Ave have a high risk of injury to cyclists.

Separation Doesn’t Equal Safety

Contrary to popular belief, the study’s data challenged the assumption that separating cyclists from vehicular traffic makes cycling safer. In fact, it suggested that such separation may increase the risk of accidents for cyclists. Of all the types of separated bicycle lanes examined, the cycle track appeared to be the riskiest, with the highest incidence of bicycle crashes. These data points have been corroborated by seasoned transportation professionals.

The Urgent Need for Reevaluation

These findings cast doubt on the wisdom of implementing separated bicycle lanes as a blanket solution for cyclist safety. While these lanes may provide a sense of security for cyclists, the actual accident data suggests otherwise. It is crucial for city planners and policymakers to reconsider their approach to bike lane design and prioritize the safety of cyclists. Laurence Lavigne Lalonde the Borough mayor needs to reconsider her stance on this issue.

Future Research Directions

The study also highlighted the need for further investigation. Future studies should aim to create and compare more accurate crash rates, incorporating bicycle and traffic volume data. Additionally, assessing crash rates before and after the installation of separated bicycle lanes on specific streets is essential for a comprehensive understanding of their impact on safety. The lack of accurate data before and after any changes is implemented is unacceptable.

City Officials need to Take a step Back

The implementation of separated bicycle lanes, with the intention of enhancing cyclist safety, has raised significant concerns based on the findings of the study conducted in Denver, Colorado. While the idea of physically separating cyclists from vehicular traffic may seem appealing, it is essential to base such decisions on empirical data and thorough analysis. The study’s results suggest that separated bicycle lanes may not be the panacea for cyclist safety, urging city planners and legislators to reevaluate their strategies and prioritize the protection of cyclists on the road.

Negligent Actions of the Mayor

One cannot ignore the glaring negligence exhibited by the mayor in enforcing these changes despite the heartfelt pleas of concerned citizens. The citizens, driven by their genuine desire to ensure the safety of their children, elderly, cyclists, handicapped members of the community, as well as saving the parking spots for the residents of the Borough have repeatedly voiced their concerns.

It is disheartening to witness the mayor’s disregard for the safety and well-being of her constituents, particularly when empirical evidence questions the effectiveness of the separated bicycle lanes. Ignoring the pleas of the community, who are the most affected by these changes, raises significant questions about the mayor’s commitment to their welfare and the responsible execution of her duties. It is essential for public officials to listen to the concerns of their constituents and prioritize their safety above all else when implementing urban infrastructure changes.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/dianafurchtgott-roth/2022/09/08/bike-lanes-dont-make-cycling-safe/amp/

Blog Community Activism Local Community Montreal Blog Transportation Urban Planning

Vanishing No Parking Signs in Parc-Extension: A Closer Look at Community Concerns

Post author By Pierre
Post date September 21, 2023

The "No parking" signs at Parc-Extension, temporarily removed during recent events, sparking community controversy.

Unveiling the Mystery: Vanishing No Parking Signs Stir Controversy in Parc-Extension

A Closer Look at the Disappearing No Parking Signs and Their Impact on the Community

Introduction:

Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighborhood remains at the center of an impassioned debate regarding proposed changes that involve the elimination of parking spots and the expansion of bike lanes. This ongoing dispute recently escalated during a Villeray-Saint-Michel-Parc-Extension borough council meeting, prompting the need for police intervention. The core of the issue revolves around the ambitious plan to redesign two bike lanes on Querbes and Ball avenues, which would result in the removal of 250 parking spaces. In this article, we will explore the latest developments that have left the community bewildered.

Vanishing No Parking Signs:

In the continuing saga of Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighborhood and its battle over proposed bike lanes and parking spaces, a recent turn of events has left residents perplexed and frustrated. The sudden appearance and disappearance of no parking signs along certain streets have raised numerous questions. This development has amplified existing concerns about transparency, fairness, and the treatment of marginalized communities that hold differing views from their elected officials.

Residents of Parc-Extension were taken aback when they realized that the stretch of streets from Querbes and Liege to Jean-Talon and Querbes was devoid of no parking signs on a Tuesday night. This unexpected occurrence left many puzzled, especially considering the intense debate surrounding changes to the neighborhood’s bike lanes and parking infrastructure. Initially, the community believed that the mayor had reconsidered and would finally listen to their concerns, seeking an alternative solution that better accommodates all parties involved.

However, on Wednesday, the no-parking signs reappeared, only to be taken down again Wednesday night. Residents parked their cars and went to sleep, only to wake up to find their cars ticketed or towed.

No parking sign – Park-Extension

Emergence of Evidence:

As news of the missing no parking signs spread, concerned residents provided evidence that painted a troubling picture. It became evident that city workers, accompanied by a police escort, had returned in the early hours of the morning to reinstall the no parking signs. This raised a critical question: How can individuals be penalized for parking in good faith when the signs designating the parking restrictions were temporarily absent?

Community Concerns:

The controversy surrounding the removal and subsequent reinstallation of the no parking signs has incited outrage among Parc-Extension residents. Many individuals within the neighborhood’s marginalized communities feel that their voices and concerns are being disregarded by elected officials determined to push through their agenda, regardless of opposition.

The removal of the signs, even if temporary, raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the decision-making process. It also calls into question whether residents who hold different views from their elected representatives are being treated unfairly or discriminatorily.

Transparency and Civic Engagement:

The events surrounding the missing no parking signs underscore the importance of transparency and civic engagement in local decision-making. Residents are increasingly advocating for a more inclusive process that considers the diverse needs and concerns of the community.

The city towed cars 4 hours after placing no parking signs

As the debate over bike lanes and parking spaces continues, it is essential to ensure that all voices are heard, respected, and treated fairly. The removal and subsequent reinstallation of parking restrictions without adequate communication or warning raise concerns about the treatment of marginalized communities in the decision-making process.

Are city officials attempting to penalize residents for standing up for themselves, or are residents fed up with the authoritarian actions of elected officials and resorting to acts of dissent by removing the signs? Regardless, the responsibility lies with the mayor’s office for mistreating this marginalized community within the district. At the very least, all tickets need to be revoked, and citizens need to be compensated for any inconvenience they have endured.

A solution that respects the rights of all community members:

The mystery of the vanishing no parking signs in Parc-Extension serves as a reminder of the need for open, transparent, and fair governance. As residents grapple with the evolving situation, it is crucial for elected officials to address these concerns and work toward a solution that respects the rights and perspectives of all community members.

The story of the missing signs is far from over, and it underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing the interests and views of a diverse community. In the spirit of democracy, it is essential to ensure that no one feels marginalized or discriminated against for expressing their opinions, and that all voices are given equal consideration in shaping the future of Parc-Extension.

Police issued tickets 4 hours after placing signs prohibiting parking

A Call for Mayor Lalonde to Reflect on Her Actions:

Many residents of Parc-Extension are now calling upon Mayor Laurence Lavigne Lalonde to pause, take a moment to look at herself in the mirror, and reflect on her actions throughout this contentious issue. It is essential for elected officials to represent and work for the benefit of all constituents, not just a select few.

If Mayor Lalonde had taken the necessary steps to find a solution that accommodated a larger number of her constituents, particularly those from visible minority groups, much of the strife and division that has plagued the community could have been averted. Instead, her insistence on pushing through the changes without adequate consideration for the concerns and needs of a significant portion of the community is seen by many as reprehensible.

Mayor Lalonde has an opportunity to reevaluate her stance and take steps towards fostering unity, inclusivity, and equitable representation for all residents of Parc-Extension. The hope is that she will choose a path that respects the diversity of voices within the community and seeks a fair resolution to the ongoing debate.

Tags Civic Engagement, Community Concerns, Marginalized Communities, No Parking Signs, Transparency, Urban Governance

Blog Community Engagement Montreal Blog Transportation Transportation Urban Planning

The Battle Over Bike Lanes: A Closer Look at Park-Extension’s Duelling Protests

Post author By Pierre
Post date September 19, 2023

Bike Lane Battle in Park-Extension: A Clash of Perspectives and Overlooked Concerns

Duelling Protests Expose Deep Divides in Montreal’s Parc-Extension Neighborhood

Introduction:

Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighbourhood has become the battleground for a passionate debate that pits those in favour of eliminating parking spots and increasing the number of bike paths against residents concerned about losing parking spaces and securing the existing bike paths. This ongoing feud reached a boiling point at a recent Villeray-Saint-Michel-Parc-Extension borough council meeting, where tensions ran so high that police intervention became necessary. The heart of the matter? The borough’s ambitious plan to revamp two bike lanes on Querbes and Ball avenues, a move that would entail the removal of 250 parking spaces. In this article, we’ll delve into the perspectives of both sides of the argument, shedding light on the complex issue at hand.

The Concerns of Opponents:

Nalin Patel, a long-time Parc-Extension resident, voices the concerns of those opposing the bike lane plan. With a household of six adults relying on two cars, Patel insists that eliminating 250 parking spaces would be a disaster for residents who already find parking challenging. The sentiment among opponents is that the neighbourhood is overcrowded, and parking is already scarce.

Many of the people who are fighting for the parking spots to be minimally affected insist that there should be more emphasis on protecting the existing bike lanes and possibly adding additional speed bumps on Querbes to further reduce the speed of cars travelling the road. They appear frustrated that their voices are being ignored, and elected officials are implementing their plans without proper debate and consultation.

The Perspective of The Abolition of Parking Spots:

As has been reported elsewhere, on the other side of this debate are the people who are advocating the reduction in the number of parking spots and for additional dedicated cycling lanes to be created for protection of the cyclists. Xavier Kronstrom Richard, a resident of Bloomfield Avenue, has been cycling in the area for years and supports the borough’s move to create safer cycling infrastructure. He notes that the community has been calling for protected bike lanes for over a decade, emphasizing that the current car-centric neighbourhood is hazardous for pedestrians and cyclists alike. Kronstrom Richard highlights the added risks for families with children, citing concerns about dangerous U-turns.

Xavier Kronstrom Richard believes that the borough’s plan will not only safeguard those who don’t own cars but also contribute positively to the fight against climate change. Didier Delfolie Noulin, a 15-year resident of Park Ex, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for alternatives to car usage.

Mayor’s Perspective and the Missing Data:

Laurence Lavigne Lalonde, the borough mayor for Villeray-Saint-Michel-Parc-Extension, stands behind the plan, pointing out that 50 percent of Park Ex’s population doesn’t use a car, and bike lanes occupy just two percent of the borough’s roadways. She argues that creating more equitable transportation options is essential for the neighbourhood’s many families and pedestrians. While acknowledging that some residents will face adjustments, Lavigne Lalonde believes that the greater good should prevail.

The Concerns of the Blind Community:

Among the residents raising concerns is Petros Nikolantonakis, a blind resident of Parc-Extension and a staunch advocate for the visually impaired in Montreal. He points out that accessibility for the blind and visually impaired in the neighbourhood is already a challenge, and the proposed changes raise additional concerns.

Nikolantonakis highlights that the removal of parking spaces could affect accessibility for those who rely on transportation services tailored to the needs of the blind, such as the variety of services that are offered for people with limitations. For many in the blind community and others with physical limitations, walking longer distances to reach essential services or transportation hubs is not a viable option, and the proposed changes have not adequately addressed these concerns.

A Divided Community:

One notable aspect of this debate is the composition of the opposing groups. The pro-bike path changes group, comprising about twenty individuals, appears to be predominantly of Anglo-Saxon or French-Canadian descent. In contrast, the group supporting the existing bike paths is at least five times larger and consists predominantly of members from visible minority groups that reflect the diverse makeup of Park-Extension’s actual residents.

This demographic divide raises important questions about representation and decision-making. Some residents wonder whether elected officials are relying on an assumption that it may be easier to dismiss or disregard the concerns of marginalized groups. The size and diversity of the group supporting the existing bike paths suggest that this issue is not merely a matter of preference but also one of social equity and inclusivity.

Uncovering Overlooked Concerns:

Given the events that unfolded during this protest and the perceived lack of attention to safety concerns raised by some residents, we have decided to delve further into this debate. It’s essential to investigate whether elected officials and traditional media groups might have overlooked other pressing issues in Parc-Extension. Are there other concerns simmering beneath the surface, waiting to be addressed? We will explore these questions to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing this vibrant neighbourhood.

In recent times, city streets have witnessed dramatic transformations as officials and city planners rush to implement changes without giving due consideration to public input. These changes often leave residents and commuters scratching their heads, wondering if anyone bothered to think it through. A glaring example of this phenomenon can be found in the streets of Cote des Neiges, where a recent street alteration has left citizens infuriated and asking crucial questions.

Final Thoughts:

The clash between those in favour of protected bike lanes and residents worried about losing parking spaces in Park-Extension is emblematic of the broader debate surrounding urban planning and transportation. As the neighbourhood navigates this contentious issue, it remains to be seen how a balance can be struck between the needs of cyclists, the concerns of car-dependent residents, the pressing issues of safety and accessibility, and the needs of the visually impaired residents and service providers who cater to them.

The hope is that transparency, inclusivity, and careful consideration of all perspectives will become hallmarks of the decision-making process, ensuring that the voices of all residents, including the most vulnerable, are heard and taken into account. The removal of the no parking signs Tuesday night gives us hope that the mayor’s office has reconsidered her attempt to force through the city’s plans as is.

Blog Community Engagement Local Governance Montreal Blog News Politics Transportation Transportation Urban Planning

The Battle Over Parking Spaces vs. Bike Lanes: Park Ex Residents Demand a Voice

Post author By Pierre
Post date September 17, 2023

Petros Nikolantonakis - advocates for Montrealers living with a visual impairment

Navigating the Controversy: Park Ex Residents Fight for a Say in Urban Change

In a recent borough council meeting in Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighborhood, tensions reached a boiling point as residents gathered to voice their concerns about the removal of 250 parking spaces to make way for revamped bike lanes on Querbes Avenue. This contentious debate has been simmering since an information session in June, and it reflects deeper issues of representation and community change in this densely populated neighborhood.

A Flashpoint in a Diverse Community

Parc-Extension, often referred to as Park Ex, is a diverse and rapidly changing community. The decision to remove parking spaces and prioritize bike lanes has become a flashpoint in this neighborhood, where residents often feel unheard by officials. The heated meeting saw attendees expressing their frustrations, and some even had to be escorted out.

Zubeda Khan, a longtime resident and mother of four, was among those who raised concerns about how this change would affect her family’s two vehicles. She felt that her lifestyle, which involves numerous appointments and errands for her family of six, was being disregarded. This sentiment was shared by many residents who rely on cars for their daily lives.

A Neighborhood Divided

While some residents argue that the focus on bike lanes is neglecting the needs of families and elderly residents, others believe it’s a step in the right direction for a greener and safer community. Borough Mayor Laurence Lavigne Lalonde defended the decision, stating that half of Park Ex’s population does not use cars, and bike lanes occupy only two percent of the roadways. However, environmental advocates argue that parking takes up nearly 30 percent of the neighborhood’s space. The revamped bike lanes are expected to improve safety for cyclists by creating physical barriers between bikes and cars, but the trade-off is the loss of parking spaces that many residents rely on.

Many residents of Parc-Extension are deeply upset about what they perceive as outsiders, including elected officials, imposing their ideas on the community without seeking their input through a vote. In this close-knit neighborhood, where residents often share a strong sense of belonging and a desire for self-determination, the feeling of being unheard in decisions that directly affect their daily lives has intensified frustrations. They argue that decisions of such magnitude, like the removal of parking spaces and the introduction of bike lanes, should involve meaningful community engagement and consultation. This sentiment underscores the broader issue of representation and the desire for residents to have a say in shaping the future of their beloved Park Ex.

The Human Impact

The debate isn’t just about statistics; it’s about the real-life impact on residents like Matilda Ramacieri, a disabled woman whose reserved parking space will be moved due to the bike lane changes. Her son, Marco Paredes-Ramacieri, expressed concerns about her safety during the winter months. These concerns highlight the very real consequences that some residents will face as a result of these changes.

Moreover, an anonymous first responder reported that the time it takes to reach someone in need and transport them to the hospital has been increasing over the years due to these changes. Tragically, the responder mentioned losing patients because of delays caused by navigating the new infrastructure.

Additional Concerns: Accessibility and Safety

Certain residents in the area, including a blind man named Petros Nikolantonakis and a seasoned taxi driver with over 2 million kilometers under his belt, have raised pressing concerns about the safety and accessibility of the revamped streets.

Petros, a blind resident that lives in neighborhood, and advocates for Montrealers living with a visual impairment, highlighted the danger faced by visually impaired individuals when exiting vehicles and having to navigate through bike lanes to reach the sidewalk. Petros went on to say that the residents of Park-Extension were invited to an informal information meeting and the decision was simply imposed on the burough residents without public consultation.

Petros safety concern was echoed by the experienced taxi driver who pointed out the challenges of assisting elderly passengers who struggle to walk even a short distance through a bike lane before reaching the sidewalk. The taxi driver emphasized that taking these passengers to a safer location was often impractical due to the layout of the streets and the long walk back to their destination.

Exploring Potential Avenues for Park Ex Residents

Drawing Lessons from Terrebonne Street in NDG

Residents of Park Ex facing the heated debate over parking spaces versus bike lanes might find valuable lessons in the experiences of other Montreal boroughs, particularly Côte-des-Neiges-Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG). In NDG, a contentious bike path on Terrebonne Street stirred significant controversy, leading to its removal after widespread complaints, including a 2,000-signature petition. It’s a testament to the power of community engagement and the responsiveness of elected officials to citizens’ concerns.

In the Terrebonne Street case, borough councillors Lionel Perez and Marvin Rotrand took action after listening to citizens’ complaints and prepared a motion for council presentation, resulting in the removal of the bike path. This highlights that residents have the ability to voice their concerns and influence decisions. Park Ex residents may consider engaging their elected officials in a similar manner to address their concerns and seek a compromise that aligns with the needs of their community.

Seeking Solutions Amidst Unheard Concerns

The additional concerns that have come to light during this contentious problem that has the residents upset has laid bare the potential safety hazards and accessibility issues that some residents, especially those with disabilities or limited mobility, may encounter as a result of the changes. As the debate rages on in Park Ex, it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached that addresses these pressing concerns while balancing the community’s evolving needs.

As the debate continues to unfold in Park Ex, with residents expressing their frustration and concerns, it becomes increasingly evident that a significant portion of the community feels marginalized and unheard in decisions that directly impact their lives. Moreover, it appears that politicians have zero concern about this problem, which underscores the urgency for meaningful community engagement and dialogue to bridge the gap between the proposed changes and the needs and voices of the residents who call Park Ex their home.

Tags Bike Lanes, Civic Engagement, Community Voice, Montreal, Park Ex, Parking Spaces