Call to Action: Support Guelph’s Vision Zero Action Plan
We need your help. The Vision Zero Action Plan—a critical step toward making Guelph’s streets safer for everyone—is up for discussion at the Committee of the Whole on March 4. Your voice can make a difference.
Committee of the Whole Meeting: Monday, March 4 at 9:30 AM
Deadline to register to delegate (in person, video call, or phone) or submit written comments: Friday Feb 28th at 10 AM
We know what’s at stake. The tragic death of Susan Bard, a dedicated community member and GCAT volunteer, is a heartbreaking reminder that road safety cannot wait.
In the months surrounding Susan’s passing, Guelph has seen a devastating number of vulnerable road user collisions. Just this past fall, four pedestrians were struck in under a week. In December, a mother and daughter were hit in a crosswalk on their way to school and many many more incidents. Cyclists continue to face near misses and crashes, including my own hit-and-run, which happened just days after Susan’s memorial. Each of these incidents is a devistating reminder that our streets are not as safe as they should be.
These are not isolated cases—they reflect a broader issue that demands urgent action. We cannot afford to wait for more lives to be lost or for more people to be seriously injured before meaningful change happens.
Recent News coverage on Susan’s case
GCAT volunteers have been working behind the scenes on this case, beyond organizing Susan’s ghost bike ride and speaking to the media. We’ve been taking advice from Dave Shellnutt, The Biking Lawyer, on where and how to push for justice as well as understanding charges and the court system. When a 60-day sentence was originally requested, we wrote to the Crown to challenge it on his advice.
Susan’s memory is part of our advocacy: in delegations to City Council, letters to our MPP, and calls for stronger protections for vulnerable road users.
We also want to extend our gratitude to Dave for his support, not only in Susan’s case but also in helping me navigate my own hit-and-run. His guidance has been invaluable, and we truly appreciate his dedication to standing up for vulnerable road users.
Susan’s memory has been part of our advocacy: in delegations to City Council, letters to our MPP, and in our calls for stronger protections for vulnerable road users.
Vision Zero
Vision Zero isn’t anti-car—it’s pro-safety. It’s about making sure everyone—whether driving, walking, or biking—can get home safely. City staff have worked hard on this action plan, and it needs public support to move forward.
What Reports Say
Underreporting of Collisions:
- Official data shows 106 reported bike collisions (2018-2022), but hospital records suggest 30% more go unreported.
- Collision data doesn’t yet track micromobility devices (e-scooters, etc.).
Why Do People Bike on Sidewalks?
- Only 50% of Guelph residents feel safe biking in the city. For seniors (65+), this drops to 30%.
- Protected bike lanes reduce collisions or collison severity—yet many major routes still lack them.
Where Collisions Happen:
- 63% of pedestrian collisions occur on arterial roads.
- Most fatal and serious collisions happen on wide, high-speed roads.
Drivers Are Missing Vulnerable Road Users:
- A 2023 study found 50% of drivers don’t check for pedestrians or cyclists when turning right.
Some People Face Greater Risks:
- Older adults (75+) have the highest risk of fatal injuries in pedestrian and cycling crashes.
- Marginalized communities face twice as many collisions but receive half as many traffic studies.
What Needs to Change
30 km/h Speed Limits: Cities that adopt a City 30 model see a 37% drop in road deaths.
No Right Turn on Red: Most of the world bans right turns on red, and Ontario cities like Mississauga are considering it as part of Vision Zero.
Better Infrastructure & Enforcement: More tools like speed cameras while we take the time to install traffic calming, and protected bike lanes and intersections.
How You Can Help
We need your support! Submitting a comment or delegating to City Council helps show that safer streets are a priority for Guelph.
Committee of the Whole Meeting: Monday, March 4 at 9:30 AM
Deadline to register to delegate (in person, video call, or phone) or submit written comments: Friday Feb 28th at 10 AM
Safer streets don’t just happen—they require action. Let’s push for real change. Help us ensure Susan’s story leads to action.
Thank you for your continual efforts!
-Andrea Bidgood
Vice chair
