Transportation
Cyclists Frustrated by Delays in Bloor Bike Lane Extension
Construction delays and communication issues have left cyclists uncertain about the completion of the Bloor Street bike lane expansion.
By Feather Sand Chronicles Editorial Team | April 07, 2025 at 10:46
Cyclists across Toronto are voicing frustration over repeated delays in the long-promised extension of the Bloor Street bike lane, a project initially slated for completion last summer. Construction setbacks, contract disputes, and poor communication have left many wondering when the protected lanes will finally reach their destination in Scarborough.
The project, which aims to expand the existing Bloor bike corridor from Runnymede Road to Pharmacy Avenue, has faced multiple obstacles, including delayed procurement of materials and unanticipated utility issues beneath road surfaces. The result is a patchwork of half-finished lanes and inconsistent signage along major thoroughfares.
City staff acknowledge the delays but emphasize the complexity of urban infrastructure projects. 'We understand the public’s concerns, and we’re working hard to ensure the work is done correctly and safely,' said Sarah Linton, a transportation planner with the City of Toronto. 'Unfortunately, underground utility conflicts have extended timelines at several points.'
Cyclists argue that the delays are more than an inconvenience—they’re a safety issue. 'Without clear infrastructure, drivers get confused, and we end up dodging traffic,' said Harish Chauhan, who bikes from the Junction to East York daily. 'It feels like we’re being deprioritized again.'
The city had originally pitched the extension as a way to close a key gap in the east-west cycling network. The new lanes were supposed to offer a continuous, protected route for commuters and recreational riders alike. Instead, they’ve become a symbol of stalled progress.
A recent report from Cycle Toronto, a local advocacy group, sharply criticized the city’s handling of the project. The report cites insufficient stakeholder communication and a lack of accountability for contractors who miss deadlines. The group is calling for public transparency measures moving forward.
In response to mounting criticism, the city has launched a public dashboard showing weekly updates and adjusted timelines. A new completion date has been set for late October, with additional crews brought in to accelerate construction during the warmer months.
Local councillors say they are receiving daily inquiries from constituents. 'People are right to be upset,' said Councillor Gord Perks. 'This is about more than just cyclists. It’s about trust in the city’s ability to deliver on promises and build infrastructure that matches our environmental goals.'
Business owners along Bloor have also weighed in. Some say the delays have disrupted deliveries and foot traffic, while others welcome the eventual bike lanes. 'It’s a pain now, but once it’s done, it’ll bring more people to the strip,' said Lena Mendes, who owns a bookstore near Dufferin.
Public consultations are ongoing regarding the next phase of the bike network plan, which could link Bloor lanes with Danforth and extend into new parts of the east end. Officials say lessons from the current delays will inform how future corridors are managed.
Advocates stress that consistent, protected bike lanes are critical not only for safety but for reducing traffic congestion and emissions. 'We’re trying to change how people move through this city, but we can’t do that with inconsistent infrastructure,' said Cycle Toronto’s executive director, Ali Rizvi.
As spring cycling season ramps up, many riders are simply hoping to see real progress on the ground. 'It’s a great idea stuck in limbo,' said Chauhan. 'If we want to be a bike-friendly city, we need to act like it—not just plan for it.'