Here's what I don't get.
The politics of Tory's position.
For one moment, let's pretend politics isn't all about public policy and what's best for society, based on the evidence!
Having done that, you would think a decision might then be based on political expedience.
But here, we have a win on offer for Mr. Tory, which is that the local councillor, and local residents appear to support the bolder, cheaper proposal. (lane reduction on Yonge)
There are votes to be gained in North York, and in areas like downtown where pro-cycling, pro-pedestrian, eco-friendly policies attract support.
Of course, there are opponents.
But wait, where do those opponents live? The vast majority of that car traffic on Yonge is NOT to nearby condos or addresses, but to points in York Region.
An area w/an odd dearth of Toronto voters.
I see way more upside than down for the Mayor if he supported this initiative.
Even if he faced an opponent for Mayor on his right-flank, he has at least 2 defences, aside from good public policy for supporting the idea.
The first is deference to the local residents and councillor (goes well w/populism and small-c Conservative thinking); its also the cheaper option, which should appeal to fiscal conservatives too.
Add to that, that is recommended by staff, good public policy etc.
Sometimes, Mr. Tory's brain trust leaves me scratching my head.