Segregated Laurier bike lanes hit 1 year anniversary

It's been one year since segregated bicycle lanes opened along Laurier Avenue, and opinions about the lanes remain divided.

About 365,000 trips have been logged so far, according to figures released by the city. On busy days, nearly 3,000 people use the lanes.

Ulas Ergul said his restaurant, Orient House Shawarma & Grill on Laurier between Elgin and Metcalfe streets, has been losing about $500 per month since the lanes were introduced.

He said the lack of parking along the avenue is to blame.

Pilot project to last another year

Some cyclists, meanwhile, have complained about drivers, pulling into the lanes and pedestrians walking into them without looking.

Others have said they feel much safer with them.

Mayor Jim Watson said some people are uncomfortable with change.

"I think we have to look at the broader good, and the fact of the matter is 365,000 trips have been taken on those segregated bike lanes, it's a pilot project, it's something new, and people generally are not always comfortable with something new," Watson said.

The bicycle lane pilot project on Laurier will last another year.

The city said a detailed report including cyclist counts, business activity and public feedback will then be sent to the planning committee.