Bloor Corridor Visioning Study

(Photo titled: "bike lane?" by mdintoronto)

In terms of bike lanes, sharrows, lights or any bike infrastructure at all other than post and rings, the Bloor Corridor Visioning Study is a bit of a let down. But there will be a public meeting November 10 where some good souls could push for something more substantial (if the City is accepting public input at this meeting). The background information is online (hat tip to TaketheTooker), examining the planning issues in the segment between Avenue Road and Christie/Grace Streets.

The City Planning Division is coordinating a Visioning Study for the Bloor Corridor. The purpose of the study is to develop a shared vision for Bloor Street West for the next ten years, through consultation with area stakeholders including residents, businesses and landowners. The study will examine such matters as land use, built form, community services and facilities, transportation, heritage and urban design in developing a vision for the future evolution of the Corridor, as well as recommendations to achieve that vision.

On November 10, 10am, the City will propose an amendment to the Official Plan with area specific policies for the Bloor Corridor, in consultation with the local community. It will take place at City Hall, Committee Room 1, 2nd floor.

The City of Toronto is proposing an amendment to the Official Plan to introduce area-specific policies for properties on Bloor Street West, between Avenue Road and Bathurst Street. The draft amendment is intended to implement a vision for the area as determined through the Bloor Corridor Visioning Study Phase 1 process, in consultation with the local community and area representatives. The City is also proposing draft Urban Design Guidelines to provide further direction for potential future development in the area.

The Draft Official Plan Amendment makes no specific mention of bike lanes, though it does put in some vague recommendations to address "active transportation":

Active Transportation
The design of rights-of-way in the Bloor Corridor will recognize and enhance the primacy of pedestrian safety and movement, and will reinforce and support transit use and cycling. Opportunities to provide widened sidewalks, consolidated bicycle parking areas and enhanced pedestrian access to subway stations within the Bloor Corridor will be pursued. Cycling infrastructure will be considered in the Bloor Corridor in the context of a City-wide study as directed by Council.

It may mean there wasn't enough political will or capital to push for something more concrete so instead the ball has been put back in Council's court to get anything like bike lanes.