Toronto bike lane removal raises cost and design questions

Toronto and Ontario are moving ahead with plans to remove or reconfigure bike lanes on several busy streets, including Bloor Street, Yonge Street and University Avenue. The project follows a court ruling that allowed the province to proceed with changes to about 19 kilometres of protected lanes. The article says the work is expected to be complex and could require more than simply taking out paint or barriers. Experts noted that some sections may need road reconstruction, while intersections could also require changes to signals, signage, hydrants and drainage infrastructure. A major open question is cost. Toronto previously estimated full removal could cost $48 million, while the province has not said who will pay. City officials said about $27 million had already been spent installing some of the lanes, and the province has asked for design options that could keep or adjust parts of the network.