A new bike-friendly version of Terrebonne Street in the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce borough is set to be implemented, featuring one-way traffic and protected bike lanes. However, some residents are strongly against the changes and are preparing to protest the construction. The opposition stems from a previous failed attempt to introduce a similar bike path in 2020, which caused controversy and was ultimately removed. Despite this, the borough has invested over $200,000 in studying how to implement the new project effectively.
The new bike-friendly infrastructure will result in a reduction of street parking by over 60%, with residents only able to park on one side of the street. The area is home to schools, a church, and a seniors home, and some residents believe that the project does not adequately take their needs into consideration. They argue that the study on which the project is based is flawed. NDG resident Tom Glowacky highlights the older population of the neighborhood and suggests that social engineering should not push people to use bikes.
Encouraging active transportation is a key objective for the borough, as outlined in its first long-term transportation plan unveiled recently. Currently, only 1% of the borough’s commuters use bikes, in contrast to 10% in other areas like the plateau. Proponents of active transportation in the area support both the new plan and the bike path, emphasizing the need to move away from solo car driving. They believe that the new infrastructure will make the street safer for all users, including vehicles.
Jason Savard, spokesperson for the Association of Pedestrians and Cyclists of NDG, notes that although there are vocal opponents to the new bike lanes, there is also widespread support for the initiative. He believes that by narrowing the street and slowing down traffic, bike paths can create a safer environment for everyone. However, residents against the project express concerns about potential dangers, such as cars backing up from driveways and children crossing the street into the bike path. Long-time resident Marie Yvonne Kiely worries about the safety of children navigating the new layout.
The borough mayor’s office was contacted for a statement on the matter but did not respond by the deadline. Opponents of the new bike path are organizing a rally at William Hurst Park on May 25 to further voice their concerns. Despite the controversy surrounding the project, the borough remains committed to promoting active transportation and creating safer streets for all users. The debate over the Terrebonne Street bike lanes highlights the ongoing tension between different modes of transportation and the need to balance the interests of all residents in the community.
