Since taking office in 2017, Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante has expanded the city’s cycling network by 35 percent, adding 280 kilometers of bike paths. Montreal now boasts a total of 1,082 kilometers of bike lanes. Despite this growth, some residents feel there may be an excess of bike lanes, and certain mayoral candidates are capitalizing on this sentiment in their campaigns.
As the 2025 election approaches, with a heightened focus on climate change, the debate between bikes and cars is seen as a false dilemma. Consequently, the candidates’ positions on bike paths are relatively similar. Before delving into the cycling-related promises of the five mayoral contenders, it’s essential to understand the impact of bike paths on street parking and local businesses.
Studies show that bike paths do encroach on parking space in Montreal, but this sacrifice is deemed necessary for developing a healthier, more sustainable urban environment. Only a small fraction of Montreal’s road space, 2.3 percent, is dedicated to bike infrastructure, with the majority, 97.68 percent, reserved for cars. Despite concerns about the impact on parking, experts argue that reallocating space for bike lanes is crucial for creating more efficient and environmentally friendly cities.
Data indicates that key neighborhoods like Plateau-Mont-Royal and Rosemont—La-Petite-Patrie lack sufficient bike infrastructure to accommodate the high demand for safe cycling routes. Furthermore, removing bike lanes would have minimal impact on alleviating traffic congestion, according to cycling trends analyzed by experts.
In terms of economic impact, research suggests that improved bike infrastructure generally benefits retail and food services, although it may negatively affect businesses reliant on car traffic. Montreal business owners, especially those affected by bike lane construction, face challenges in adapting to evolving transportation priorities.
As the municipal election nears, mayoral candidates are outlining their plans for the city’s cycling network. From expanding bike-sharing services to enhancing public safety through innovative bike infrastructure, each candidate offers a unique vision for Montreal’s future. While some candidates propose reassessing existing bike paths, others advocate for freezing the construction of new bike lanes on commercial streets to prioritize safety and traffic flow.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding bike paths in Montreal reflects broader discussions on urban planning, sustainability, and the evolving needs of a modern city. As residents weigh the pros and cons of expanding cycling infrastructure, the outcome of the election will shape the future of transportation in Montreal.