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CS 39-11
-achy Report To 76 Council I KERIN Report Number: CS '39-11 Date: October 17, 2011 From: Everett Buntsma Director, Community Services Subject: City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan File: A-1440 Recommendation: 1. That Report CS 39=11 of the Director, Community Services regarding the City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan be received; and 2. That Council endorse staff comments and recommendations to include the noted roads as Regional Cycling Spines and revise the funding formula as provided in the report and that Report CS 39-11 be forwarded to the Regional Municipality of Durham for their consideration. Executive Summary: In October 2008, the current Regional Cycling Plan was approved by Regional Council. The Region of Durham is currently undertaking a review of the Regional Cycling Plan (2008), and its associated funding arrangements with the area municipalities and- have requested input from the area municipalities. The updated Regional Cycling Plan is intended to be considered as part of the Region's 2012 Business Planning and Budget Review process. Currently, the Regional Cycling Plan consists of six (6) major cycling spines within the limits of the City of Pickering, of which Taunton Road, Bayly Street, Brock Road, Kingston Road (Highway 2), and Lakeridge Road are included in their entirety, and Whites Road is included from Bayly Street to Taunton Road. The Regional Cycling Plan also identified a methodology to determine appropriate financial and administrative responsibilities for the implementation of on-road and off-road cycling facilities along Regional Roads. The recommendations presented in this report are staff comments based on the review of the current Regional Cycling Plan. The recommended modifications would result in a modified Regional Cycling Plan that would include additional existing and future Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 Page 2 77 Regional Roads as Regional Cycling Spines, such as Altona Road, Finch Avenue, Westney Road, Liverpool Road, and future roads in Seaton such as the Whitevale Road By-pass, Rossland (Third Concession) Road extension, and Whites Road extension. Staff also recommend that.the funding and administration costs be revised such that the Region continue to be responsible for the cost of providing a platform for the construction of off-road cycling facilities and that the cost of construction for multi-use bikeway paths be equally shared between the Region and the City, instead of solely by the City. The Region should be responsible for the full cost for on-road cycling facilities (dedicated bike lanes and paved shoulder bikeways) on Regional Roads. There are many upper tier municipalities (e.g. Niagara, Waterloo, Peel, York) within Southern Ontario that support the lower tier municipalities in implementing their cycling programs. Considering the approach of those upper tier municipalities, the funding formula recommended in this report is considered fair, equitable and serves the combined interests of the Region and the City. Financial Implications: This report recommends that the Region of Durham be financially responsible for the construction and ongoing maintenance, operation and repair costs related to all on-road cycling facilities (bike lanes and paved shoulders) as well as off-road cycling facilities where the bike lane is separate from the sidewalk. The City and the Region would be jointly responsible for the construction and ongoing maintenance, operation and repair costs related to shared off-road facilities such as multi-use paths on boulevards, on.a 50/50 cost-shared basis. It is estimated that the cost to install a 3.Om wide asphalt multi-use path as part of a road reconstruction project is approximately $150,000 per km length. Actual costs will be determined on a project by project basis as detailed design is prepared. Sustainability Implications: The Regional Cycling Plan is a policy document that provides an increased opportunity for future sustainable planning in the Region of Durham. The goals of the plan promote energy efficient and environmentally conscious alternative modes of transportation which support economic, environmental and social, corporate sustainability objectives. The Regional Cycling Plan should also focus on educational bicycle safety programs. Additionally, a more comprehensive effort by the Region will be required to influence the public that cycling is not only a feasible mode of transportation but a safe and more sustainable alternative to the automobile for short distance trips. Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 g Page 3 Background: In January 2007, the Region's consultant (Marshall Macklin Monaghan, now MMM Group) completed the Regional Cycling Plan study and submitted the report to the Region of Durham. The City was in support of the consultant's recommended plan as it was consistent with the corporate sustainability objectives and would assist in creating an efficient, affordable and accessible transportation environment. However, following their review, Regional staff expressed concern with the consultant's recommended plan due to significant financial responsibilities and risk management issues. In September 2007, the Region circulated the report to the area municipalities requesting comments by March 15, 2008. The City was generally satisfied with the Region's approach, and provided comments to the Region through Report OES 07-08 approved by Executive Committee on May 12, 2008 and by Council on May 20, 2008. In June 2008, Regional staff submitted a status' update (Report No. 2008-J-19) on the Regional Cycling Plan summarizing comments received from the area municipalities and outlining next steps. Based on the comments received from the area municipalities, the Region concluded that a region wide simplified cycling network should be developed that is scaled back considerably from the original cycling network proposed by the consultant's study report, and that a recommended cycling network and corresponding business case analysis be presented to the Joint Committee in the fall of 2008. In October 2008, Regional Council (via Report No.2008-J-35) approved the current Regional Cycling Plan and related policies (Working Consolidation, See Attachment #1). The plan identified major Regional Cycling Spines where cycling paths should be implemented to connect with key attractions, including Regional Centres designated in the Regional Official Plan, and key intermodal facilities such as GO stations. The current Regional Cycling Network includes the following east-west and north-south Regional Roads within the boundaries -of the City of Pickering: ➢ Taunton Road in its entirety ➢ Bayly Street in its entirety ➢ Brock Road in its entirety ➢ Whites Road from Bayly Street to Taunton Road ➢ Lakeridge Road in its entirety ➢ Highway 2 (Kingston Road) in its entirety Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 79 Page 4 The current plan also indicates that the type of cycling facility implemented along Highway 2 (Kingston Road) will be reviewed through the Region's Highway 2 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Study. The plan also identified a methodology to determine Regional and Local funding responsibilities for the Regional Cycling Network: ➢ For Regional Roads with an urban cross-section that forms part of a Regional Cycling Spine, the Region will provide at its cost, a platform for the construction of a multi-use boulevard path on one side of the road, the cost of providing a platform will include land acquisition, utility relocation, grading and customized bridge structures. The cost of granular, asphalt, signage, marking, the provision of other amenities and path maintenance (i.e. short term regular maintenance, ownership and long. term replacement) will be borne by the area municipality in which the multi-use boulevard path is located. ➢ For Regional Roads with a rural cross-section that forms part of a Regional Cycling Spine, the Region will provide an on-road (shoulder) platform (land acquisition, utility relocation, grading and customized bridge structures) for a paved shoulder bikeway on both sides of the road. The cost of granular, asphalt, signage, markings, and the provision of other amenities be cost shared 50/50 between the Region.and respective Area Municipality in which the shoulder resides. The maintenance of the paved shoulder will be the responsibility of the Region and any cost associated with maintenance will be borne by the Region. ➢ Alternatives to multi-use boulevard paths in Regional road rights-of-way may be considered where such paths are deemed inappropriate or unfeasible by the Region. The cost, financial responsibilities and ownership of such facilities will be determined on an individual case-by-case basis and approved by Regional Council. The Joint Finance & Administration, Planning •and . Works Committees considered a report on May 26, 2011 regarding requests for additions to the Regional Cycling Plan from the Town of Whitby and the City of Oshawa to expand the current Regional Cycling Plan (Report No. 2011-J-31, See Attachment #2). The main motion, as amended and carried by Regional Council (See Attachment #3), requested the eight area municipalities to provide updates and suggestions for modifications to the Regional Cycling Network by September, 2011 for input into an updated Regional Cycling Plan to be considered by Regional Council as part of the 2012 business planning and budget review, and to consider contacting cycling clubs Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 80 Page 5 and individuals of record to solicit their input on improvements and modifications to the Regional Cycling Network. General Comments on Current Regional Cycling Plan (October, 2008) The City is in support of the current cycling routes identified in the plan, within the limits of the City of Pickering. However, staff recommend that the Region should strengthen connectivity between the area municipalities in the forthcoming update of the Regional Cycling Network. The City is of the opinion that the Region must be solely responsible for implementing and funding the Regional Cycling Spines on Regional Roads within the City of Pickering, with the exception of multi-use pathways in boulevards which will be cost- shared. Staff's recommendations on funding arrangements are presented further on in this report. Detailed Comments on Regional Cycling Network (Routes) Through 'Sustainable Placemaking' initiatives, the City promotes active transportation, especially walking and cycling. The City is planning to update its Trails and Bikeway Master Plan (1995) in the near future. The City is also in the 'planning stages of developing a green, 'bicycle and transit friendly' community in the 'Seaton Urban Area' within the Central Pickering Development Plan. Considering public demand, future development, review of the cycling network opportunities, funding limitations, and construction cost, staff recommend that the routes shown in Table 1 below also be included in the Regional Cycling Plan. The cycling routes included in this table will serve the combined interest of the Region and the City in terms of providing a comprehensive cycling network that complements the local cycling initiatives. The cycling routes included in this table are in addition to the cycling routes included in the simplified Regional Cycling Plan. Table 1 Recommended Additional Cycling Routes for the Regional Cycling Plan See Attachment #4 Name Road Section Type of Facility Length km Altona Road Kingston Road to Finch Avenue Multi-Use Path 3.1 Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 a Page 6 Altona Road Finch Avenue to Taunton Road Paved Shoulders 2.8 Finch Avenue Altona Road to Brock Road Paved Shoulders 5.8 Westney Road Fifth Concession Road to Highway 7 Paved Shoulders Y 2.0 Liverpool Road Bayly Street to Finch Avenue On-Road Bike 2.0 Lanes Future Regional Roads Whitevale Road By- Brock Road to Markham-Pickering On-Road Bike Not ass Townline Lanes Available Rossland Road Brock Road to Highway 7 On-Road Bike Not Lanes Available Off-Road Bike Not Whites Road Taunton Road to Highway 7 Lane or Multi-Use Available Path • Recommendation: that Altona Road be included in the Regional Cycling Network in the form of a 3.Om wide multi-use bikeway path on the east side of the road, from Kingston Road to Finch Avenue, and a 1.5m to 2.Om wide paved shoulder bikeway on both sides of the road from Finch Avenue to Taunton Road. Altona Road is a Type B Arterial road. The Consultant's report (January, 2007) on the Regional Cycling Plan included Altona Road as a Major Regional Cycling Spine. However, the simplified Regional Cycling Network approved by the. Regional Council excluded this road from the Regional Cycling Plan. The Consultant's report proposed a 1.5m wide bike lane from the edge of the gutter between Kingston Road (Highway 2) and Finch Avenue and a 1.5m to 2.0 m wide paved shoulder bikeway for the section between Finch Avenue and Taunton Road. In accordance with the City's current Trails and Bikeway Master Plan (1995) the City of Pickering is implementing off-road cycling facilities through the reconstruction of Altona Road. As a part of these projects the City has implemented a multi-use bikeway path on the east side of the Altona Road between Kingston Road and Strouds Lane. • Recommendation: that the segment of Finch Avenue from Altona Road to Brock Road be included in the Regional Cycling Network in the form of a 1.5m to 2.Om wide paved shoulder bikeway on both sides of the road. Similarly, Finch Avenue should also be reinstated in the Regional Cycling Network as a Cycling Spine. Finch Avenue is a Type B Arterial road with both urban and rural cross-sections. Finch Avenue provides enhanced safety for cyclists (due to low traffic volume and speed) and better connectivity in order to provide a comprehensive regional cycling network. Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 82 Page 7 • Recommendation: that the segment of Westney Road from Fifth Concession Road to Highway 7 be included in the Regional Cycling Network in the form of a 1.5m to 2.Om wide paved shoulder bikeway on both sides of the road. Westney Road is Type B Arterial road with a rural cross-section within the limits of the City of Pickering which provides north-south connection with the Town of Ajax . The Town of Ajax has already indicated that they have plans to implement various bicycle facilities along Westney Road which is a major north-south commuter spine. In order to enhance regional north-south cycling connectivity the Town of Ajax has recommended to include Westney Road from Bayly Street to Highway 7/407 as a Regional Cycling Spine. The City supports this recommendation of the Town of Ajax. Recommendation: that the segment of Liverpool Road from Finch Avenue to Bayly Street be included in the Regional Cycling Network in the form of a 1.5m wide, on-road bike lanes on both sides of the road. The City has identified Liverpool Road from Pine Ridge Secondary School to the Waterfront as an important cycling spine. This is a key spine that connects Pickering's Growth Centre, the GO station, the pedestrian bridge over Highway 401, the waterfront trail as well as a number of key activity centres. Liverpool Road segments from Finch Avenue to Pine Ridge Secondary School and from Bayly Street to the Waterfront are classified as local road and collector road respectively. Liverpool Road between Bayly Street and Finch Avenue is a Regional Type B Arterial road which provides a north-south connection to both utilitarian and recreational cyclists. • Recommendation: that the Region of Durham, in consultation with the Town of Whitby, make the necessary arrangements to implement cycling facilities on Lakeridge Road, in the form of a 1.5m to 2.0m wide paved shoulder bikeway on both sides of the road at the Region's cost. Lakeridge Road is a major north-south Type A Arterial road with rural cross- section within. the limits of the City of Pickering. Lakeridge Road is also a boundary road between the City of Pickering, Town of Ajax, and Town of Whitby. This road is included in the current Regional Cycling Plan as a Cycling Spine. In 2009, the City of Pickering and the Town of Ajax committed their share of the costs to implement cycling facilities (paved shoulder bikeways) on Lakeridge Road from Taunton Road to Highway 7. However, the Town of Whitby was Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 20118 3 Page 8 unwilling to commit their share of the costs associated with the cycling facilities as Lakeridge Road was not identified in their cycling plan. • Recommendation: that the existing off-road bike lane facility on Bayly Street from West Shore Boulevard to Liverpool Road be brought up to current standards and connected with the remaining segments of Bayly Street by providing new cycling facilities on these segments. Given that Bayly Street from Whites Road to the east City limit is a major east- west Type A Arterial road with an urban cross-section and is a part of the Regional Cycling Spine, construction of a multi-use bikeway path on this route should be given high priority as it provides connectivity to the GO Station, Employment area, Downtown Pickering and the Waterfront trail. Currently a segment of this route from West Shore Boulevard to Liverpool Road is provided with an off-road bike lane separated from sidewalk on the south side of the road adjacent to the curb, however this installation is not up to current standards. Future Regional Roads • Recommendation: that the future Regional Roads in the Seaton urban area be included in the Regional Cycling Network as Cycling Spines. The Central Pickering Development Plan (CPDP) has identified Whites Road/Sideline 26 extension, Third Concession Road (Rossland Road)/Sideline 22 extension, and Whitevale By-pass as major north-south and east-west commuter and transit routes in the Seaton Urban Community. These roads are classified as Type A and Type B Arterial roads and will eventually become a part of the Regional Road Network. The Central Pickering Development Plan strongly encourages the use of alternative modes of transportation and requires that the Seaton Urban Community shall be provided with interconnected network of pedestrian facilities, bicycle paths and multi-use trails. • Recommendation: that the Regional Cycling Plan be further revised to permit on-road bike lanes on Type B and lower class Arterial Roads, and off-road cycling facilities on Type A Arterial Roads. Based on the Seaton `Conformity Amendment' to the Official Plan, the City is advocating off-road cycling facilities along Type A Arterial Roads and on-road cycling facilities for Type B and C Arterial Roads as well as for collector and local roads. For Type A Arterial roads, off-road cycling facilities are recommended which may or may not be part of a multi-use path within the road right-of-way. Typically, off-road cycling lanes are not exclusively located within a multi-use i Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 84 Page 9 boulevard path. Similarly, the cycling facilities on Type B Arterial Roads and lower class roads are proposed to be on-road, and not part of a multi-use boulevard path. Within the current Regional Cycling Plan, the Region will only consider multi-use boulevard paths as an acceptable cycling facility along Regional Road rights-of-way. Comments on the Implementation Strategy • Recommendation: that the Region include the proposed timing for the implementation of cycling routes and provide the funding necessary to adhere to the strategy in the larger interest of the Region as a whole. The current version of the Regional Cycling Plan does not indicate a staging/phasing strategy for the implementation of the suggested cycling routes within the Region. • Recommendation: that based on the York Region model, the Region of Durham budget a set amount in its annual capital budgets for cycling infrastructure along Regional Roads. City staff support the Town of Ajax recommendation that the Region commit a set annual amount in its capital budget for cycling infrastructure. Under the 'Municipal Partnership Program', York Region commits $500,000 annually for cycling infrastructure. • Recommendation: that the Region give due consideration to cycling facilities as part of any Regional Environmental Assessment (EA) for the reconstruction or widening of Regional Roads. The current ongoing Regional Class Environmental Assessment process for Highway 2 Quick-Win Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project has identified on-road buffered cycling lanes as a recommended alternative for Highway 2(Kingston Road) within the Town of Ajax and the City of Pickering. This recommendation is based on the safe practices for providing cycling facilities on urban arterial roads in various jurisdictions throughout North America. The Region's policy on implementing multi-use bikeway paths along Regional Roads with an urban cross-section is inconsistent with these safe practices for providing cycling facilities on urban arterial roads. The Region's approach should be much more flexible in accommodating cycling facilities on Regional Roads. Along the Regional roads with high speeds and volumes, it is indeed safer to separate vehicles and cyclists. Similarly, in the business and/or commercial i Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 Page 10 8 areas it is much safer to separate pedestrians and cyclists where the pedestrian volume is expected to be high, to reduce potential pedestrian/cyclist conflicts. Comments on the Funding Strategy Section 55 (1) of the Ontario Municipal Act states that "an upper-tier municipality is not responsible for the construction and maintenance of sidewalks on its highways, and the lower-tier municipality in which the highways are located is responsible for the construction and maintenance of the sidewalks and has jurisdiction over that part of the highway, unless the municipalities agree otherwise." The legislation is silent on the requirement for lower tier municipalities to construct, maintain or provide funding for cycling facilities on upper tier municipal roads. Based on the current Regional Cycling Plan, the Region has a defined methodology to determine financial responsibilities for implementing cycling facilities along the Regional Cycling Spines. However this strategy fails when the Area Municipalities are unable or unwilling to commit to the cost sharing formula. The City proposes the following methodology to determine the appropriate financial responsibilities for the Regional Cycling Network: Recommendations: • that the current funding strategy be revised, with the. Region taking full financial responsibility for the funding and implementation of paved shoulder bikeway facilities on the Regional Roads; • that in urban areas where the dedicated bike lanes are proposed within the travelled roadway width, the Region be 100% responsible for construction and maintenance cost; • that where the off-road facility (multi-use bikeway paths) is undertaken -as part of a regional road reconstruction/widening project, all costs associated with design, land acquisition, utility relocation, grading, and customized bridge structure shall continue to be borne 100% by the Region of Durham; and considering that the pedestrian component is the City's responsibility, all costs associated with granular, asphalt, signage, marking, and the provision of other amenities, are to be shared 50/50 between the Region and the Area Municipality. Regular routine maintenance costs for the path should be the responsibility of the Area Municipality. However, major repairs and replacement cost should be shared 50/50 between the Region and the Area Municipality; 1 Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling Plan October 17, 2011 86 Page 11 • that where the off-road bike lanes (separate from the sidewalks) are provided, the Region should be 100% responsible for the cost of providing such facilities along the Regional Roads including maintenance cost; and • that where off-road cycling facilities are proposed to be undertaken as an individual project on Regional Road rights-of way, all cost associated with the project (design, utility relocation, grading, property acquisition, construction etc.) should be borne 100% by the Region of Durham. Attachments: 1. Regional Cycling Plan (October, 2008) - Working Consolidation 2. Regional Staff Report to Joint Committee (20011-J-31) 3. Excerpts from the Regional Council Direction/Minutes -June 8, 2011 4. Schematic Map of Existing and Proposed Cycling Routes . I Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By: Dhaval Pandya, M.Eng., P.Eng. Evere Buntsma Coordinator, Transportation Engineering Director, Community Services ZlRq 2, Grant McGregor, MCI P Neil Carro , MCP, RPP Principal Planner, Policy Director, Pla ping & Development 1 Report CS 39-11 City of Pickering Comments on the Regional Cycling'Plan October 17, 2011 Page 12 87 chard W. Fi6lborn, P.Eng. Division Head, Engineering Services DP/dp Copy: Chief Administrative Officer Recommended for the consideration of Pickering Cit oun it O 12-, 2-0 /1 Tony Prevedel, P.Eng. Chief Administrative Officer i iOREPORT C I/ . ; _ AYiACHM E NT#_._. 1 'Lo f `,Wo r k` n g ._r • Qwtobe~r 2®©'8 consolidation. S -/l I ATTACHMENT# - TOREPORT# ~y 2_0f_ 89 REGIONAL CYCLING PLAN (Working Consolidation) On October 8, 2008, Regional Council endorsed the Regional Cycling Plan network and related policies. The following documents constitute the Regional Cycling Plan: • Commissioners' Report 2008-J-35 • Joint Committee Minutes - September 30, 2008 • Regional Council Direction - October 8,2008 This working consolidation has been prepared for ease of reference. Any interpretation of the policies and directions contained herein should be done so in consultation with Regional staff. Regional Cycling Plan Goal 1.1 To build upon existing local cycling initiatives by connecting and expanding existing cycling facilities in the Region to establish an integrated and readily accessible region-wide network serving both urban and rural areas. Regional Cycling Network 1.2 The Plan seeks to achieve "a region-wide, visible and connected network of cycling routes and facilities that are actively used by all types of cyclists". Map 1 illustrates a simplified network of cycling spines. 1.3 The network is comprised of Regional Cycling Spines connecting key attractions, including Regional Centres designated in the Regional Official Plan, and key intermodal facilities such as GO Stations. These Regional Cycling Spines include: • Taunton Road from the York/Toronto Boundary to Simcoe Street (Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa); • Bayly/Victoria/Bloor Streets from Whites Road to the Oshawa GO Station (Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa); • Brock Road from Montgomery Road to Old Brock Road (south) and from Old Brock Road (north) to Highway 47 (Pickering, Uxbridge); • Highway 47 from Brock Road to Elgin Park Drive (Uxbridge); • Reach Street from Main Street to Simcoe Street (Uxbridge, Scugog); • Simcoe Street from Gibb Street to Reach Street (Oshawa, Scugog); • Thornton Road from Taunton Road to Gibb Street (Oshawa); ATTACHMENT# TO REPORT#_L2NI 90 of Regional Cycling Plan (Working Consolidation) Page No. 2 • Gibb Street from Thornton to Simcoe Street to connect to the future Oshawa GO station (Oshawa); • Whites Road from Bayly Street to Taunton Road; • Lake Ridge Road from Bayly/Victoria Streets to Reach Street; and • Highway 2 from Toronto Boundary to the Village of Newcastle. In addition, the Plan provides for the review of the role of Highway 2 for cycling, through the Region's Highway 2 Bus Rapid Transit Study. Consideration to examining the extension of cycling facilities along Taunton Road east of Simcoe Street, Simcoe Street north of Reach Street and Lake Ridge Road north of Reach Street shall be undertaken through future reviews of the Regional Cycling Plan. Recommended Approach for Regional Cycling Plan 1.4 The implementation of the Regional Cycling Plan will be reviewed and considered by Regional staff on an annual basis through the Region's Capital Works and Financing programs. A report to Joint Committee of Finance and Administration, Planning and Works will be provided in the fall of each year, with a copy to be circulated to the local area municipalities for comments and input. This report will also provide preliminary cost estimates for the road related capital needs, financing, phasing, and other Regional Cycling Plan programs (communication, education and promotion). These estimates will then be included in the various departmental business plans for consideration during the pending budget phase of the Regional business plan. 1.5 The Regional Cycling Plan may be modified as needed over time by Regional staff with regard to the following parameters: • The Regional Cycling Plan be reviewed every five years in conjunction with the Region's Transportation Master Plan. User and public attitude surveys will be conducted at least every five years to assess progress and outcomes of the cycling plan implementation. Cycling data will be collected through the Region's current traffic data collection program; • Between formal review. periods, when opportunities arise, individual network route changes, additions or deletions may be considered; ATTACHMENT# TO REPORT# 3~ -11 -of-~-- 91' Regional Cycling Plan (Working Consolidation) Page No. 3 • The Regional Cycling Spines identified in this Plan be protected and developed for both utilitarian and recreational trip purposes; • Staff will make ongoing revisions or changes in facility types as new detailed information become available, through capital project planning and local development, provided the continuity and functionality of a cycling route is maintained; • The design of cycling facilities shall follow recognized and approved standards and guidelines to maximize cycling safety, security, accessibility, convenience and enjoyment. Cycling facility design will consider compatibility with other travel modes and pedestrian facilities and allow accommodation for as wide a range of user ages and abilities as possible; and • Operational measures for the Regional transportation system which support safe and convenient cycling shall be included. 1.6 The following methodology will be used to determine the appropriate responsibilities for the Regional Cycling Network: • For Regional Roads with an urban cross'section that form part of a Regional Cycling Spine, the Region will provide at its expense, a platform for the construction of a multi-use boulevard path on one side of the road. The cost of providing a platform will include land acquisition, utility relocation, grading and customized bridge structures. The cost of granular, asphalt, signage, markings, the provision of other amenities, and path maintenance (i.e. short term regular maintenance, ownership and long term replacement) will be borne by the area municipality in which the multi-use boulevard path is located. • For Regional Roads with a rural cross section that form part of a Regional Cycling Spine, the Region will provide an on road (shoulder) platform (land acquisition, utility relocation, grading and customized bridge structures) for a paved shoulder bikeway on both sides of the road. The cost of granular, asphalt, signage, markings, and the provision of other amenities be cost shared 50/50 between the Region and respective Area Municipality in which the shoulder resides. The maintenance of the paved shoulder will ATTACHMENT# ~ TO REPORT# of 92 Regional Cycling Plan (Working Consolidation) Page No. 4 be the responsibility of the Region and any costs associated with maintenance will be borne by the Region. • Alternatives to multi-use boulevard paths in Regional road rights-of-way (i.e. cycling lanes, signage) may be considered where such paths are deemed inappropriate or unfeasible by the Region. The cost, financial responsibility and ownership for such facilities will be determined on an individual case-by-case basis.and approved by Regional Council. Related Outreach, Education and Promotion Policies 1.7 Encouraging bicycle travel is a key element of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) efforts aimed at promoting alternative modes of travel to the single occupant vehicle. As part of the Region's TDM and Smart Commute Durham effort, the following initiatives will be pursued to encourage bicycle travel in Durham: • developing and implementing a comprehensive communication strategy for the creation and distribution of cycling information and resources through the use of a wide variety of media; • developing educational and promotional materials regarding the benefits of cycling and incorporating or referencing this information in Regional publications, reports and events; • maintaining a comprehensive Regional Cycling and Trail Network Map; • encouraging public and private sector land and building owners to provide trip-end facilities, such as secure parking, showers and lockers, at major employment, educational, and commercial centres; and • encouraging the private sector, interest groups, agencies, governments and inter-city carriers to promote bicycle tourism in the Region and develop Durham as a key destination for cyclists. ATTACHMENT# ' TOREPORT#L~/'~~ . 2 of _L- 93 Regional Cycling Plan (Working Consolidation) Page No. 5 Risk Management and Mitigation Strategies 1.8 Regional staff undertook a risk management and insurance analysis of the proposed Regional Cycling Network. The following is a preliminary checklist of risk management considerations and strategies that will be undertaken to reduce risk: • There should be a safe distance between the bike path and the roadway. Although it can be built on the shoulder of the roadway, a separate path built parallel to the roadway and separated by distance is preferred, especially if it is intended to be a two way path. • The path should be paved with a surface that is conducive to bicycling. The area of the road surface must be reasonable for a "person-powered" apparatus. Surfaces that are reasonable for vehicle tires are not necessarily conducive to bicycles. • The path must be clearly marked throughout. Bicyclist signs should be posted all along the path and not only at the beginning and end of the path. • Signs on the bicycle path should warn cyclists of road crossings and to proceed with caution through the intersection. • All road signs must conform to standards. It is recommended to have at least two signs at each crossing - one well in advance of the crossing warning of the upcoming crossing and one at the crossing itself for both the pathway and the roadway. • Cyclists should be encouraged to dismount their bicycles at all crossings. • Whenever possible, bicycle crossings should be routed to the nearest controlled crossing and merge with the pedestrian sidewalk and painted crosswalks to permit only one controlled crossing of the road intersections so that they do not interfere with the turning movement of vehicles. • If the path must cross a busy street, a controlled crossing device could be considered to warn motorists. If this is not possible, the crossing should ATTACHMENT# j TOREPORT#_ 94 of Regional Cycling Plan (Working Consolidation) Page No. 6 take place at a controlled intersection with either traffic lights or a four-way stop.' • Crossings should be marked with clearly visible painted markings, unless crossings occur at a controlled intersection or mid block where a control device should be considered. • Signage must also be appropriate for biking. A steep grade for a bike is different than a steep grade for a car. • Any road that narrows at a bridge (such as a one lane crossing) should not be considered for such a trail due to space constraints. • Mileage markers or other identifiable markers should be posted along the road to aid emergency vehicles (911 calls) as to the location of a problem. • If there are residences, farms, small businesses with driveways, laneways along the path, these residences must be notified that a bike path is being constructed so they have to exercise greater due diligence when backing out of driveways, laneways, etc. • It is prudent to notify the police, fire, ambulance services that cyclists will be encouraged to use these routes. • Area Municipal policies and procedures must incorporate the maintenance and inspection of the bicycle pathway and signage. This pathway will require a greater due diligence. Written inspection and maintenance logs should be maintained. • Road maintenance is critical. Some potholes, cracks in the road may not be a hazard to a vehicle but may cause serious injury to a bicyclist. 1.9 A safe distance should be provided between the bike path and the roadway to reduce risk. A separate path built parallel to the roadway and separated by distance is preferred to paved shoulders, especially if it is intended to be a two way path. The proposed Regional Cycling Network includes off-road multi use paths parallel to the road, which will reduce risk compared to on-road paths. ATTACHMENT#--J- TO REPORT#-L5L3H - Of 95 Regional Cycling Plan (Working Consolidation) Page No. 7 1.10 Paths should be paved with a surface that is conducive to bicycling with clearly marked lines and signage warning cyclists of the path ahead, any road crossings, intersections, traffic lights, bridge crossings, rights of way, lane ways, grading, warning drivers to be alert to bicyclists crossing their paths, etc. 1.11 Paths must be maintained on a regular basis as some potholes, cracks, snow, etc may not be a hazard to a vehicle but may cause serious injury to a bicyclist. NAStrategic PB\Transportation\Regional Cycling Plan\RCP Consolidation - internal use\RCP - working consolidation 052011.doc (7 c f" r z Z z CL J c „ C a a ` Z U i7 y O co m C y m ` ` V rn o d Q ¢ ga o m 10 c N c y c v € W J o u c c o Q m y ? a > CL Z w o o w a M w 'C C 7 V O ) o t~..0 W z a 0 r Q1 C m~ 0 0 0 0 ~ U 77 8 a O o _ c 's B Q_ L d Y - ...iii...... ATTACHMENT# Z TOREPORT# Of I Co 97 The Regional Municipality of Durham To: The Planning, Works and Finance and Administration Committees From: A.L. Georgieff, Commissioner of Planning and Economic Development C. Curtis, Commissioner of Works R.J. Clapp, Commissioner of Finance. Report No.: 2011-J-31 Date: May 26, 2011 SUBJECT: Area Municipal requests to expand the Regional Cycling Plan, File: D21-32 Standing Committee Correspondence 2010-77 dated July 9, 2010, from Debi A. Wilcox, Town Clerk, Town of Whitby Correspondence dated February 10, 2011, from Mr. Tom Goodeve, Manager of Policy, Development Services, City of Oshawa Standing Committee Correspondence 2011-71 dated May 7, 2011, from Mr. Joe Arruda, Oshawa Resident RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Joint Planning, Works and Finance and Administration Committee recommends to Regional Council that the eight area municipalities be requested to provide updates and suggestions for modifications to the Regional Cycling Network by September 2011 for input into an updated Regional Cycling Plan to be considered by Regional Council as part of the 2012 Business Planning and Budget review. REPORT: 1. PURPOSE 1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide an update on requests for additions to the Regional Cycling Plan from the Town of Whitby (Attachment 1) and the City of Oshawa (Attachment 2), and to recommend next steps. 1 nn!! i AT-CACHME:NT#fi___ ~ O REPORT# W ?~"f g 3 Zof Report No.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 2 1.2 In addition, in February 2011, Joint Committee requested that a report be brought forward to provide a better understanding of the current approved cost sharing formula contained in the Regional Cycling Plan and the potential cost implications for the area municipalities and the impact on future budgets. 2. CURRENT REGIONAL CYCLING PLAN 2.1 In December 2003, Regional Council approved the Durham Transportation Master Plan which recommended the development of a Regional Cycling Plan that: • "Focuses activity on the Local Municipal road and path systems; • Connects the Local Municipal bicycle systems together; • Integrates with other modes of transportation, especially walking and transit; • Considers the need for bicycle facilities within Regional road corridors; • Identifies facilities that may be required on the Provincial Highway network to achieve network continuity, which may be subject to municipal funding; and Defines an implementation strategy, identifying public education and marketing initiatives, costs, financing sources and responsibilities." 2.2 In December 2004, the Region retained a consultant to undertake the Regional Cycling Plan Study. Over the course of the following two years the consultant completed the Regional Cycling Plan study assignment in accordance with the terms of reference. However, given the significant expenditures required and the unaddressed risk management issues, a Business Case analysis, including further financial and risk analysis was required. 2.3 As such, Joint Committee resolved in June 2007 that the study "be forwarded to each of the Area Municipalities and that the area municipalities be asked to comment on the plan and plan implementation including priorities and financing options." 2.4 In June 2008, Joint Committee received Report 2008-J-19 which provided an overview of the area municipal comments on the Consultant's 2 ATTACHMENT# _~LTO REPORT# 99 Report No.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 3 recommended Regional Cycling Plan Study. The report identified the following key themes that emerged from the area municipal comments: the primary role of the Region should be to plan, design and coordinate connections between the area municipalities; • the Regional Cycling Plan should be reasonable and fiscally responsible; given other priorities, the Region should develop a strategic plan and a more simplified (and lower cost) network that is based on fewer east- west and north-south connections; • the recommended construction of paved shoulders and signed only routes in rural roadways is costly and overly ambitious, and as such, should be scaled down; • the Region should meet with the area municipalities to establish a common approach to proceeding with cycling facilities, an associated funding formula, and a means for financing; and it is critical that the area municipalities and the Region begin to integrate the Regional Cycling Plan into capital budgets and Official Plans. 2.5 The comments from area municipalities indicated a strong desire for the Region to focus on inter-municipal connections that complement the local cycling networks. Accordingly, it was concluded that a simplified network should be developed that is scaled back considerably from the network developed by the consultant, and that a recommended cycling network and corresponding business case analysis be presented to Joint Committee in the fall of 2008. 2.6 In October 2008, Regional Council approved the Regional Cycling Plan and related policies. The plan, which identifies key Regional road spines where cycling paths should be implemented, builds upon and integrates with the existing local area municipal cycling initiatives by connecting with the local area municipal existing cycling facilities to provide a region wide network. The Regional Cycling Plan establishes an integrated and readily accessible region-wide network serving both urban and rural areas. 3 CIO ATTACHMENT# +~O REPORT# CS 3/_q Of ReportNo.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 4 2.7 The network, as shown in Attachment 3, was approved with the following Regional Cycling spines: • Taunton Road from York/Toronto Boundary to Simcoe Street (Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa); • BaylyNictoria/Bloor Streets from Whites Road to the Oshawa GO Station (Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa); Brock Road from Montgomery Road to Old Brock Road South and from Old Brock Road North to Regional Highway 47, (Pickering, Uxbridge); • Regional Highway 47 from Brock Road to Elgin Park Drive (Uxbridge); • Reach Street from Main Street to Simcoe Street (Uxbridge, Scugog); • Simcoe Street from Gibb Street to Reach Street (Oshawa, Scugog); Thornton Road from Taunton Road to Gibb Street (Oshawa); • Gibb Street from Thornton to Simcoe Street in order to connect to the future Oshawa GO Station (Oshawa); • Whites Road from Bayly Street to Taunton Road; • lake Ridge Road from BaylyNictoria Streets to Reach Street; and Regional Highway 2 from Toronto/Durham Boundary to the Village of Newcastle. i 2.8 The corresponding funding arrangement provides that the Region will fund a platform for the construction of a multi-use boulevard path in urban cross sections. The cost of providing a platform will include land acquisition, utility relocation, grading, and customized bridge structures. The cost of granular, asphalt, signage, marking, the provision of other amenities, and path maintenance (i.e. short term regular maintenance, ownership, and long term replacement) is the responsibility of the area municipality in which the multi-use boulevard path is located. 2.9 For Regional roads in a rural cross section, forming part of the Regional Cycling Network, the Region will provide and fund an on-road shoulder platform (land acquisition, utility relocation, grading and customized bridge structures) for a paved shoulder bikeway. The cost of granular, asphalt, signage, markings and the provision of other amenities are to be subject to a 50/50 cost share arrangement between the Region and the respective Area Municipality. The maintenance of the paved shoulder, and the costs associated with such maintenance, is the responsibility of the Region. 4 ATTACH MENT# OREPORT# L1 ofi 01 ReportNo.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 5 3. REGIONAL CYCLING PLAN IMPLEMENTATION 3.1 The implementation of the Regional Cycling Plan is reviewed and considered on an annual basis through the Region's business planning. Staff updates have been provided in each of 2009, 2010, and 2011, during the annual business planning reviews. By the end of the 2011 construction season, 20 km of the 200 km network have been implemented as illustrated in the table below. Table 1 - Regional Cycling Spine Implementation Proposed Total Built Regional Cycling RR No. Facility Tiniefrarne Length Trail/Path Spine 2013 - 2017, Finch to Taunton included in Central Pickering Multi-use Development Plan Boulevard (CPDP) Regional Whites Road 38 Trail Services EA 6.8 Mufti-use Boulevard 2012- beyond forecast, Trail, Finch to Dellbrook and Paved CP Rail to Brougham Brock Road 1 Shoulder included in CPDP EA 22.1 1.0 Multi-use Boulevard Trail, Paved Regional Highway 47 Hwy. 47 Shoulder Beyond forecast 6.0 4.6 2013 - beyond forecast, individual segments Multi-use included in current Baylyl Victoria/Bloor Boulevard design and construction street 22 Trail assignments 19.5 1.6 5 ATTACHMENT#__'Z F REPORT#_-CON/ 102 ~ of ~ Report No.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 6 Multi-use Boulevard Trail, Paved Regional H 2 H 2 Shoulder TBD - H 2 BRT EA 47.4 2.5 Multi-use 2013 - beyond forecast, Boulevard Townline to Brock Road Taunton Road 4 Trail included in CPDP EA 25.4 5.0 Multi-use Boulevard Trail, 2013 - beyond forecast, Paved EA proposed for Bayly Lake Ridge Road 23 Shoulder to H 2 in 2011 29.2 Multi-use Boulevard Thornton Road 52 Trail 2012 and beyond 5.2 Multi-use Beyond forecast, EA Boulevard complete for Stevenson Gibb Street 59 Trail to Simcoe 3.0 Multi-use Boulevard Trail, Paved 2011 - Beyond Simcoe Street 2 Shoulder Forecast 23.8 4.6 Multi-use Boulevard 2011 -Beyond Forecast, Trail, 2011 Resurfacing Paved /Rehabilitation east of Reach Street 8 Shoulder H 7/12 13.3 1.3 TOTAL 201.7 20.6 3.2 Since the approval of the Cycling Plan, there have been two segments which have not been implemented as scheduled. In 2009, the City of Pickering and the Town of Ajax committed to funding their share of the costs of providing cycling facilities (paved shoulders) on Lake Ridge Road from Taunton Road to Highway 7. However, the Town of Whitby was not able to commit to the cost sharing arrangement. As a result, this project was tendered and constructed without provision for paved shoulders on either side of Lake Ridge Road. Similarly in 2010, the Municipality of Clarington was not able to commit to a cost sharing arrangement for paved shoulders on Regional Highway 2 from Haines Street to Highway 351115. 4. AREA MUNICIPAL REQUESTS TO DATE. 4.1 Recently three requests to amend the Regional Cycling Plan to include additional cycling facilities have been received. In June 2010, the Town of R ATTACHMENT# of 1 0 3 ReportNo.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 7 Whitby requested that the Region amend the Regional Cycling Spine Network to include all facilities identified on Regional Roads in the Town of Whitby Cycling and Leisure Trails Plan. In March 2011, the City of Oshawa requested that the Region amend the Regional Cycling Plan to include linkages to the two new future GO Stations at Thornton Road south of Gibb Street, and in central Oshawa between Simcoe Street and Ritson Road. A further request was made by the City of Oshawa in April 2011, to include a multi-use boulevard trail adjacent to Harmony Road from Beatrice Street to Highway 407. 4.2 These preliminary requests received from the Town of Whitby and the City of Oshawa, to identify additional roads, under Regional jurisdiction, as regional cycling spines are detailed below (Table 2 Area Municipal Requests). These network changes would represent a 13.5% increase in the length of the network. Area Municipal Requests Proposed Length Request RR No. Regional Road Segment Facility Type (krn) Whitby 46 Brock St Victoria to S side of Bride sharrows 0.7 43 Cochrane St Dundas to Rossland bike lane 2.1 25 Consumers Dr Brock to Oshawa boundary bike lane 3.8 45 Hen St Dundas to Victoria bike lane 2.1 36 Hopkins St Consumers to Crawforth bike lane 2.0 58 Mannin Rd Brock to Oshawa boundary multi use trail 3.9 Cochrane to Oshawa 28 Rossland Rd boundary multi use trail 4.5 26 Thickson Rd Nichol to Wentworth multi use trail 2.8 26 Thickson Rd S of Conlin to Taunton bike lane 1.1 3 Winchester Rd Cachet to Gerrard bike lane 0.3 Whitby boundary to Oshawa 25 Consumers Dr Thornton multi use trail 0.5 Simcoe Street to Central 59 Olive Av Park multi use trail 1.4. Gibb to future GO Station entrance (future 52 Thornton Rd Consumers multi use trail 0.8 33 Harmon Rd Beatrice Street to H 407 multi use trail 6.0 TOTAL 32.0 7 1 0 4 ATTACHMENT# Z rO REPORT# a-S 3y'~~ Cf _J~ Report No.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 8 5. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS 5.1 Based on 2008 cost estimates, the cost for the Regional Council approved Regional Cycling Plan was $26.7 million. Of this amount, the Region is responsible for $20.3 million, while the various area municipalities are responsible for the remaining $6.5 million, as outlined by the tables below. Table 3 2008 Estimated Cost for Regional Council Approved Cycling Plan • 2008 Regional Capital Cost Estimate for Approved Regional Cycling Network ($000's) Regional Capital Cost Estimate 2008-2012 2013-2017 2018-2022 2023-2027 2027-2032 Beyond 2033 Total Platform Base for Will Use Trails' $2380 $2,256 $3,254 $2,080 $1,190 $0 $11,160 Land and Utflitiee $300 $150 $150 $150 $124 $0 $874 Shoulders in Rural Area' $285 $785 $329 $369 $999 $0 $2,767 Structures4 $282 $2,859 $1,515 $0 $419 $374 $5,448 Regional Cost Estimate $3,247 $6,050 $5,248 $2,699 $2,732 $374 $20,249 Regional Financing Estimate Development Charges $1,673 $2,645 $2,262 $67 $287 $46 $6,980 PropertyTaxes5 $1,574 $3,405 $2,986 $2,532 $2,445 $328 $13,269 Total Financing $3,247 $6,050 $5,248 $2,599 $2,732 $374 $20,249 Notes 'The capital cost of providing a three metre wide platform on urban cross sections is estimated at $131 per metre. Represents approximately 10% of total platform costs 'The estimated capital cost of providing a two metre paved shoulder in the rural areas is $86 per metre. Also, represents Regional share of costs based on 50150 cost sharing of paved shoulders with respective Area Municipality 'rhe estimated cost Of structures is $1600 per multi span metre and $2400 per single span matra 2. Road Program Estimated Capital Cost to Area Municipalities (Based on 50150 Cost Sharing) for Paved Shoulder ($000'9) Area Municipality 2008-2012 2013-2017 2018-2022 2023-2027 2027-2032 Beyond 2033 Total Oshawa $30 $46 $50 $161 $287 Pickering $184 $289 $453 Uxbridge $17 $469 $41 $189 $198 $914 Seugog $54 $270 $238 $180 $371 $1,113 Total $285 $785 $329 $369 $999 $0 $2,767 Estimated Capital Cost by Area Municipality For Pavement Structures for Urban Multi Use Trails ($000'x)' Area Municipality 2008-2012 2013-2017 2018-2022 2023-2027 2027-2032 Beyond 2033 Total Ajax $95 $59 $442 $20 $616 Pickering $255 $554 $275 $56 $1,140 Oshawa $185 $127 $139 $409 $9 $869 Whitby $246 $234 $239 $107 $826 Uxbridge $80 $80 Scugog _ $17 $34 $148 $199 Total $781 $757 $1,090 $702 $400 $3,730 Notes ' Capital cost estimates do not include any construction cost contingencies Does not include any rural paved shoulder costs 'Source: 2008-J-35 (does not include additional Regional Cycling Spine linkages added per Council direction) R ATTACHMENT#-__.z f O lil_PORT# CS 3q-1 105 ---L of ReportNo.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 9 6. CONCLUSIONS AND NEXT STEPS 6.1 The primary goal of the Regional Cycling Plan is to build on local cycling initiatives by connecting and expanding cycling facilities in the Region to establish an integrated and readily accessible region-wide network serving both urban and rural areas. 6.2 Since the approval of the Regional Cycling Plan, the Town of Ajax and the Town of Whitby have completed new cycling and pedestrian master plans. The City of Oshawa is also in the midst of completing a new plan. The requested changes to the Regional Cycling Plan reflect the results of these planning exercises and represent significant changes to the Region's cycling network. 6.3 Furthermore, recently completed or ongoing studies related to the Seaton Community, the extension of GO rail services to Bowmanville, and the extension of Highway 407 to Highway 35/115, present challenges and opportunities for cycling in Durham. 6.4 Accordingly, it is apparent that a more comprehensive review of the cycling plan is appropriate. As a first step, all of the area municipalities should be given an opportunity,to provide updates and suggestions for modifications to the designated cycling network. 6.5 It is essential that comments from the area municipalities be received by the end of September. Once the comments are received, an evaluation of the cost impacts from the area municipal requests,to the Regional Cycling Spine will be completed, and recommendations will be presented as part of the 2012 business planning process in the fall of 2011. 7. RECOMMENDATION 7.1 It is recommended that the eight area municipalities be requested to provide updates and suggestions for modifications to the Regional Cycling Network by September 2011 for input into an updated Regional Cycling 9 21 3 gTTAGMM!"n~T#, a(;~r',EPORT# CS i 106 p! ReportNo.: 2011-J-31 Page No. 10 Plan to be considered by Regional Council as part of the 2012 Business Planning and Budget review. A.L. Georgieff, M.C.I.P., R.P.P. Clifford s,1P.Eng., MB& Commissioner of Planning and Comm 49r of Works Economic Development R.J. Clapp, C.A. Commissioner of Finance RECOMMENDED FOR PRESENTATION TO COMMITTEE G.H. b . M.S. . Chief Administrative Offioer Attachments: 1. SC 2010-77 dated July 9, 2010, from Debi A. Wilcox, Town Clerk, Town of Whitby. 2. Correspondence dated February 10,,2011, from Mr. Tom Goodeve, Manager of Policy, Development Services, City of Oshawa 3. Regional Cycling Network 10' ATTACHMENT# TOREPORT#~ 107 =OfJUL-L;J tV Mru V:;?!3 SG~2414~77 THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF WHITBY 77 In the Regional Municipality of Durham AttacllrTlellt HONE. MUNICIPAL BUILDING TELEPH 905-668-5803 ONE 575 Rossland Road East Whitby, Ontario TORONTO 1 Canada MN 2MB FAX 905-686-7005 } www.whitbyca -Nrr July 9, 2010 I copy [To: Pat Madill Regional Clerk 5 Regional Municipality of Durham 605 Rossland Road East Take Whitby, ON L1 N 6A3 e cti r~n RE: CMS/Public Works Report, Item PW 34-10 Town of Whitby Cycling and Leisure Trails Plan Final Report At a meeting held on June 28, 2010, the Council of the Town of Whitby adopted the following recommendation: 1. That Council adopt in principle the recommendations contained in the Town of Whitby Cycling and Leisure Trails Plan Final Report; and, 2. That Staff be directed to consider and report on the recommendations contained in the, Town of Whitby Cycling and Leisure Trails Plan Final Report within all J future capital projects and development applications; and, 3. That Staff be directed to bring forward an implementation plan, including a funding strategy regarding the Town of Whitby Cycling and Leisure Trails Plan for Council's consideration; and, 4. That Council request Durham Regional Council to amend the Regional Cycling Spine Network to include all facilities identified on Regional Roads in the Town of Whitby Cycling and Leisure Trails Plan Final Report; and, I }That a copy of the Town of Whitby Cycling and Leisure Trails Plan Final Report ~be forwarded to the Region of Durham, the neighbouring municipalities of the Town of Ajax, City of Pickering, City of Oshawa and the Township of Scugog, Township of Brock, Township of Uxbridge, Municipality of Clarington, Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority and the Ministry of Transportation; and, 6. That staff be requested to report back to Council on the future Lynde Creek Trail including a review of previous Council resolutions, established policies and status of acquisitions. 11 i ATTACHMENT#-MREPORT# ~S 108 f July 9, 2010 Page 2. CMS/Public Works Report, Item PW 34-10 If you have any questions with respect to the above, please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned at 905-430-4302. Debi A. Wilcox, CMO, CMM III Town Clerk /md enc. 12 i ATTACHMENT# 2--"- TO REPORT#cs .oot~ 109 Oshawa @ Development Services Department Planning Services ®t! R k : E Attachment 2 February 10, 2011 ~ .1910 _F-1 XW1 File B-7300-0005 P.M. Madill - l Regional Clerk FE88 117122011 Clerk's Department Regional Headquarters Main Floor AT rE-NTfO+',i -LO 605 Rossland Road East P.O. Box 623 FILE# Whitby, ON L1 N 6A3 _ Re: Request to the Region of Durham to Amend the Regional Cycling Plan to Incorporate Additional Routes on Regional Roads City of Oshawa Please be advised that City Council at a meeting held on January 31, 2011 dealt with the Transit Project Assessment Process (TPAP) Environmental Assessment (EA) and Preliminary Design . Study (the Study) prepared by GO Transit for the Oshawa to Bowmanville GO Train Service Expansion and Maintenance Facility project and adopted the following resolution: 1. That Oshawa City Council urge the Province of Ontario and Metrolinx to expedite the Oshawa to Bowmanville GO Train Service Expansion and Maintenance Facility in the Regional -Municipality of Durham, including the completion of the ongoing Transit Project Assessment Process, detailed design, and construction, with all necessary funding earmarked at an early stage in GO Transit's Ten Year Capital Plan. 2. That the comments contained in Report DS-11-40 dated January 12, 2011, including Attachment No. 7, be endorsed as the City's comments with respect to GO Transit's Transit Project Assessment Process Environmental Assessment and Preliminary Design Study for the Oshawa to Bowmanville GO Train Service Expansion. 3. That staff be authorized to forward Report DS-110 dated January 12, 2011 and any related resolution by the Development Services Committee to GO Transit for its consideration and to provide a subsequent follow-up once Council has considered this matter. 4. That staff be authorized to provide comments on the forthcoming Environmental Project Report and any associated technical studies directly to GO Transit and the Ministry of the Environment for the remainder of the Transit Project Assessment Process and subsequently include any comments in the correspondence section of the Development Services Committee agenda. 5. That CP Rail be requested to assess the impacts of operations along the CP Belleville Subdivision corridor in proximity to established residential areas, to ensure that impacts The Corporation of the City of Oshawa, 50 Centre Street South, Oshawa, Ontario L1 H 327 Phone 905.436.3853 1.800.667.4292 Fax 905.436.5699 www.oshawa.ca 13 ATTACHMENT# 'L TO REPORT# W 1 'I 0 ~_of/ arising from CP Rail operations are appropriately mitigated in conjunction with impacts resulting from the proposed GO Train service expansion through Oshawa. j 6. That the Region of Durham be requested to amend the approved. Regional Cycling Plan to incorporate additional Regional cycling routes on, Regional roads, namely, an extension of the approved Thornton Road route southerly from Gibb Street to the proposed new Thornton's Comers GO Station, a new route along Consumers Drive between Thickson Road and Thornton Road South and an extension of the approved Gibb Street route easterly from Simcoe Street South to Central Park Boulevard along the proposed Gibb Street/Olive Avenue connection, to serve the proposed new central Oshawa GO Station. 7. That City of Oshawa staff liaise with Metrolinx and the Region of Durham regarding the preparation of a Mobility Hub Master Plan focused on the central Oshawa station, in accordance with the previsions of the Regional Transportation Plan - "The Big Move" - and bring forward a proposal for this work at the appropriate time. 8. That staff be directed to consult with the Development Services Committee on a public process intended to keep residents aware of any future plan changes by GO Transit. 9. That copies of this resolution and report be forwarded to the Honourable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of the Province of Ontario, the Honourable Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Transportation, Durham MPPs, and area municipalities in Durham." For your information, enclosed is a copy of the report of the Commissioner of Development Services DS-11-40. In accordance with Recommendation No. 6 above, the City requests that the Region of Durham amend the approved Regional Cycling Plan to incorporate additional Regional cycling routes on Regional roads, namely: • an extension of the approved Thornton Road route southerly from Gibb Street to the proposed new Thornton's Comers GO Station, • a new route along Consumers Drive between Thickson Road and Thornton Road South, to serve the proposed new Thornton's Comers GO Station; and, • an extension of the approved Gibb Street route easterly from Simcoe Street South to Central Park Boulevard along the proposed Gibb Street/Olive Avenue connection, to serve the proposed new central Oshawa GO Station. With the development of a new proposed GO Station (Thornton's Comers) at the northwest corner of Thornton Road South and the future Consumers Drive extension, it is appropriate that a cycling route connecting this gateway hub to Trent University's Thornton campus and other parts of west Oshawa be provided. The. Regional Cycling Plan identifies Thornton Road between Taunton Road and Gibb Street as a major cycling spine. Extending this spine along Thornton Road South south of Gibb Street to the new station is essential to facilitate cycling as an alternative mode-of travel to this key transportation hub. For the same reason, it is appropriate that the Regional Cycling Plan also be amended to include a cycling spine along the Consumers Drive alignment between Thickson Road and Thornton Road South, to facilitate cycling access to the station from the west, including Durham College's Whitby campus. 14 ATTACHMENT# TO REPORT# CS 37 With respect to the proposed new central Oshawa GO Station, the cycling spine shown along Gibb Street between Thornton Road South and Simcoe Street South needs to be extended eastwards to properly serve the new station. Specifically, with the planned construction of the Gibb Street-Olive Avenue connection east of Simcoe Street South, the cycling spine should be extended eastward along the proposed connection to connect to the Michael Starr Trail. The Michael Starr Trail is a primary walking and cycling route that directly links the downtown Oshawa Urban Growth Centre to the proposed new central Oshawa GO Station. In recognition of the. vital role of this facility as a component of Oshawa's active transportation network, it is appropriate to accommodate an extension of the cycling route from Simcoe Street South to the Michael Starr Trail. Staff is of the understanding that this is contemplated under the Gibb Street- Olive Avenue Environmental Assessment study, to facilitate access to the. proposed new central Oshawa GO Station from the west. It is equally appropriate to facilitate walking and cycling access to the proposed central Oshawa GO Station from the east. Accordingly, the cycling spine along the Gibb Street-Olive Avenue connection should also extend east of the Michael Starr Trail, to Central Park Boulevard. Central Park Boulevard is a key north-south route proposed in the City's draft Walking and Cycling Master Plan. Connecting Central Park Boulevard to an extended Gibb Street-Olive Avenue cycling spine will provide cyclists in east central Oshawa with a direct, highly accessible route to GO Transit's future Oshawa Station. As a "living document", the Regional Cycling Plan may be modified as needed over time by Regional staff. The Plan itself acknowledges that individual network route changes, additions or deletions may be considered when opportunities arise. Given the significant opportunities associated with the proposed eastward expansion of GO Train service from Oshawa to Bowmanville along the CP mainline, implementing the changes requested by the City will ensure that the proposed new station locations in Oshawa are more appropriately served by cycling infrastructure. If you require further information or clarification, please contact me at the address shown or by telephone at (905) 436-5636, extension 2307. Tom Goodeve, M.Sc.PI., MCIP RPP Manager of Policy Development Services Department TG/c Attachment C. Paul Ralph, Director, Planning Services Dewan .Karim, Transportation Planner/Engineer, Planning Services Sandra McEveney, Transportation Planning & Research, Region of Durham Jeff Brooks, Transportation Planning & Research, Region of Durham Jams H. Garland, Project Manger, Transportation Design, Region. of Durham Glyn Reedman, Project Coordinator, Transportation Design, Region of Durham 15 z Attachment 3 Q d _ J ~ CL Z A .L CL U) c LL c o oo b Z:E V H v • m CO W m m ZOC V ,3 d A S Z do< J o ayi ~ a a a ¢ a V ~ S = A A gw Q o c x o a a> dG Z .0 o w it > > rc O C O J O r C F4 ~~r / m 1.' y ~ 0 k A U) € 3 r O~ O 1 Y~-J I TO AT?'ACP~th'iEt~IT#.._.,_3 REPORT# CS 3y_ of z- 113 Minutes - Regional Council -33- June 8, 2011 3. DARLINGTON NEW NUCLEAR PROJECT UPDATE AND REQUEST FOR FUNDING FOR PROVISION OF CONSULTING SERVICES TO COMPLETE A REGIONAL ECONOMIC IMPACT ASSESSMENT (2011-J-29) RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL THAT Regional Council authorize Regional staff to undertake a Regional Economic Impact Assessment as a means to evaluate the impacts of the proposed Darlington New Nuclear Project on the full range of Regional services and related infrastructure with the consulting services of Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. at an upset limit not to exceed $75,000 to be financed at the discretion of the Commissioner.of Finance. 4. AREA MUNICIPAL REQUESTS TO EXPAND THE REGIONAL CYCLING PLAN, FILE: D21-32 (2011-J-31) RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL a) THAT the eight area municipalities be requested to provide updates and suggestions for modifications to the Regional Cycling Network by September 2011 for input into an updated Regional Cycling Plan to be considered by Regional Council as part of the 2012 Business Planning and Budget review; b) AND FURTHER THAT the eight area municipalities be requested to consider contacting cycling clubs and individuals of record to solicit their input on improvements and modifications to the Regional Cycling Network. Respectfully submitted, D. Mitchell, Chair Finance & Administration Committee A. England, Vice-Chair Health & Social Services Committee G. O'Connor, Chair Planning Committee C. Mercier, Vice-Chair Works Committee 310 AETACHMENTI,„.__3 ►OREPORT# CS 3~-Il 114 2-GI -Z Minutes - Regional Council -34- June 8, 2011 MOVED by Councillor Mitchell, SECONDED by Councillor Mercier, (139) "THAT the recommendations contained in Items 2 to 4 inclusive of the Fifth Report of the Joint Committees be adopted." CARRIED MOVED by Councillor Mitchell, SECONDED by Councillor Mercier, (140) "THAT the recommendations contained in Item 1 of the Fifth Report of the Joint Committees be adopted." CARRIED AS AMENDED LATER IN THE MEETING (See Following Motions) MOVED by Councillor Parish, SECONDED by Councillor Jordan, (141) "THAT the foregoing motion (140) of Councillors Mitchell and Mercier to adopt the recommendations contained in Item 1 of the Fifth Report of the Joint Committees be amended by deleting' part a) ii) and substituting therefor with the following: `ii) continue funding of the source water protection program including: 1. additional research and modelling by the Lake Ontario Collaborative to support emergency management related to spills; and 2. the research, implementation and enforcement of the source protection plans;'." CARRIED The main motion (140) of Councillors Mitchell and Mercier to adopt the recommendations contained in Item 1 of the Fifth Report of the Joint Committees was then put to a vote and CARRIED AS AMENDED. OTHER BUSINESS 1. APPOINTMENT TO THE DURHAM REGION NON-PROFIT HOUSING CORPORATION RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL 311 ~ C C.)REPQRT# L5 I-// m ;a Y Y V O ra Highway 7 ■ ;o ■y .v t Qif vat y ss ; L ■ C unton RoSd R c m ti Legend ay re Existing Cycling Route ` Recommended Cycling Route ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Recommended Cycling Route (Proposed Road) LAKE ONTARIO COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT Schematic Map of Existing Caq 00 ENGINEERING SERVICES DIVISION I I 5CAU, aUT DATE, and Proposed Cycling Routes NTS October, 2011