Co-founder, Walk Toronto
Recipient of TCAT’s 2015 Active Transportation Champion Award
Michael is one of the co-founders of Walk Toronto that launched in 2013. Ever since Walk Toronto’s foundation, Michael has been a member of its Steering Committee and has been tireless in supporting the group and its work.
Michael is one of those rare people who is equally passionate about both walking and cycling.
Michael has been an active member of Cycle Toronto since 2010, has been instrumental in guiding the work of the Ward 22 Advocacy Committee, and attends and supports many ward meetings and events beyond his own ward.
In 2015 Michael made the following key contributions:
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He overcame early resistance and successfully lobbied City Council to install a critical piece of missing sidewalk on Midland Avenue in Scarborough that connects to the Waterfront Trail.
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After construction was halted on the creation of an approved, multi-use trail linking Chorely Park over the Don River Valley, Michael played a key role to build consensus and unify opposing views, resulting in the approval of a new and improved plan that meets Walk Toronto’s accessibility goals. Construction will start in 2016.
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He launched Yonge Loves Bikes campaign.
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After several years effort by cycling and pedestrian advocates, the City finally agreed to create an accessible ramp at the Riverdale Parks. Michael’s detailed Lower Don Trail Accessibility report to City Council was instrumental in identifying the need for the ramp.
Michael is remarkable not only for his dedicated action but also for his inclusiveness – he is sensitive to the many barriers that may prevent individuals from engaging in advocacy and fully participating in civic life, and he works to bring down those barriers.