I found this link to an earlier story, they explain a bit more:

Ottawa eyes 'advisory' bike lanes for Byron Avenue - Ottawa - CBC News

I guess MN has tried it with success. I agree it may be worth a try.

My friend in Ottawa says there are designated bike routes not far away and that he doesn't think much of it as a proposal. Also he alluded people won't know what to do with them when they are in their cars.