Who is Impacted?
The decision by VIA Rail to disallow bicycles on their trains has a direct and damaging impact on a wide array of individuals. This isn't just an issue for cycling enthusiasts; it's a blow to commuters, tourists, and anyone who relies on multi-modal transportation to navigate the province. The ban hinders people from all walks of life: from the worker who relies on a bicycle-train commute to make ends meet, to the eco-conscious traveler trying to reduce their carbon footprint, to the physically challenged individuals for whom walking long distances is not an option. This decision has made train travel less accessible, less convenient, and less environmentally friendly for everyone involved.

What is at Stake?
What's at stake is nothing less than the future of sustainable and accessible transportation in Ontario. If this decision by VIA Rail is allowed to stand, we're not only losing an essential aspect of last-mile connectivity, but we're also contributing to increased road traffic, elevated carbon emissions, and greater barriers to public health and local tourism. If things stay the same, we're not just saying no to bikes; we're saying yes to a less integrated, less sustainable, and less inclusive public transportation network. Conversely, a reversal of this policy has the power to signal Ontario's genuine commitment to fostering a more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive transit system.

Why is Now the Time to Act?
The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated. Every day this policy remains in effect is another day we let down the people and the planet. As the climate crisis accelerates, now is the time to champion, not abandon, eco-friendly transportation options. As urban areas become increasingly congested, now is the time to alleviate, not exacerbate, traffic issues. And as the global and local economies try to recover post-pandemic, now is the time to boost, not stifle, the tourism and local business that cyclists bring to communities. Immediate action is imperative to reverse this short-sighted policy. Let's seize this moment to create a robust, multi-modal transportation system that truly serves the people of Ontario and the world we all share.