The Canadian Constitution Foundation is intervening in the Ontario government’s appeal of a court ruling that prevented the removal of several downtown Toronto bike lanes, arguing the decision improperly expands Section 7 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms into a positive right to bike lanes.
The appeal follows a July 30, 2025 decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, which found that provisions of the Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act violated the Charter right to life, liberty, and security of the person. The legislation, passed in November 2024, required provincial approval for certain bike lanes and mandated the removal of lanes on Bloor Street, University Avenue, and Yonge Street in Toronto.
The CCF argued at a January 2026 hearing that the ruling transforms Section 7 into a source of positive rights and invites courts to intrude into routine transportation policy, undermining the proper role of elected governments.
Toronto’s Right to Bike Lanes (Cycle Toronto v Ontario)
CCF Launch: January 5, 2026
Jurisdiction: Ontario Court of Appeal
Status: Ongoing
Next Key Date: Awaiting decision
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