Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner spoke with cyclists from across the province at the Ontario Bike Summit in Windsor this week.
The discussion centred on the best way to advocate for cycling infrastructure at the provincial level. Particularly in the wake of Bill 212, legislation that mandates municipalities must seek approval when installing new bike lanes that require the removal of an existing lane of traffic.
Schreiner told the crowd at Caesars Windsor the importance of organizing and engaging with allies to the biking community.
"The premier, to his credit, responds to the public and so I think, the need to organize, organize, and mobilize the public is the key to shifting that conversation," said Schreiner.
He noted that cyclist allies consist of small businesses that benefit from cycling infrastructure nearby, tourist entities that attract cyclists, and even developers who advocate for lower parking minimums.
"We have so many opportunities for cycling tourism in Ontario," said Schreiner. "Connect that with the local food movement, agri-tourism, there's huge opportunities and I think that message will play well with the Conservative caucus in particular."
The Ontario Bike Summit, Canada’s largest cycling and active transportation conference is being held in Windsor this week until Friday.