HomeMy WebLinkAboutApril 24, 2013Attendees: T. Arvisais
M. Brenner
K. Falconer
T. Logan
P. McCafferty (arrived at 8:15 pm)
J. O'Connell, Regional Councillor
D. Sharma
D. Tierney
S. Wilkinson
P. Noronha- Waldriff, Staff Representative
D. Marlowe, Staff Representative
D. Shields, City Clerk
R. Michaud, Recording Secretary
Guests : Joe Caffarelli, Region of Durham
Victor Doyle, Region of Durham
Scott Booker, City of Pickering
Absent: A. Heywood - Delpeache
I. Fogo
S. Little
Minutes /Meeting Summary
Accessibility Advisory Committee
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
7 pm
Main Committee Room
Item/
Details & Discussion &`Conclusion
Action Items /Status
Ref #
(su-'mmary ;of discussion)`
(include deadline as
appropriate)
1.
Welcome
Debbie Shields welcome everyone to the meeting.
2.
Review and Adoption of the Agenda
All
Moved by K. Falconer
Seconded by T. Arvisais
That the agenda is approved.
Carried
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3.
Presentations '
Pedestrian Signals, Region of Durham
Joe Cafarelli and
Joe Cafarelli, Traffic Engineering Supervisor, and Victor Doyle,
Victor Doyle
Traffic Inspector provided a brief overview of the Region's
policy with regards to the pedestrian crossing times at
signalized intersections in the City of Pickering.
He mentioned that the methodology used to determine timing
and operation of the pedestrian signals is based on a formula
found in a manual published by the province of Ontario which
has been approved by Durham Regional Council and has been
in use since 1991.
Crossing distance and walking speed is incorporated into the
formula on a site specific basis in order to generate a minimum
pedestrian crossing time.
J. Cafarelli noted that there seems to be a perception that the
crossing times are not sufficient, and this may be due to a
misunderstanding of the pedestrian crossing time. For
example, the pedestrian crossing time is comprised of the
duration of the "Walk" (walk man) plus the "Pedestrian
Clearance; flashing upraised red hand /solid upraised hand"
respectively.
He noted that the pedestrian clearance time is the duration of
the 'flashing hand', plus the vehicle amber light.
He further noted that a recent study has been completed on the
pedestrian crossing times and they are awaiting the report in
the next few months. The preliminary results of the study are
very interesting. The Region of Durham is very proactive in
reviewing all studies and reports.
The audit included the on -site crossing with persons with
different levels of disabilities and mobility.
S. Wilkinson enquired if the study provides the length of time for
both disabled and regular people to cross the road. Joe
advised that the results released to date indicate that there is
sufficient crossing time.
He noted that when the "Flashing Don't Walk" signal is
displayed part- way.into the crossing, pedestrians have a
perception that there is an inadequate amount of crossing time,
when in fact, the intent of the message is to complete the
crossing as quickly as possible or to not start the crossing if not
already done so.
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It is great to receive feedback from residents and advised that
they have conducted several site studies with visually impaired
which have been very valuable.
J. Cafarelli suggested that if there are any sites of concern they
would be glad to visit these and see how they can improve the
crossing.
In some areas, the delay to use the crosswalk is due to the
conditions of the sidewalks. They are working with City staff to
improve any areas where it may be difficult to access the
signals.
T. Logan stated that some crosswalks, for example at Highway
2 and Dixie, do not allow sufficient time to safely cross which is
an issue for people with disabilities and seniors.
J. Cafarelli stated that some municipalities extend the flashing
hand signal to allow for additional crossing time. Studies show
that most people walk faster than the average pedestrian speed
of 1.25 min per second. By increasing the crossing time at all
intersections, then we would be extending crossing times
greatly where it may not be required.
Councillor O'Connell indicated that the Region of Durham
should consider setting the crossing time at the lowest speed to
be inclusive of all pedestrians, and providing adequate time for
everyone to safely cross the intersection. She also requested
that the policy be reviewed to increase the crossing times at
wider intersections and those intersections located near seniors
residences. The current crossing times seem inadequate and
may be putting most pedestrians at risk.
J. Cafarelli advised that he will forward this recommendation to
his manager for review.
Councillor O'Connell noted that the study may be an
opportunity for the Region to review the current crossing times
and adjust the walking speed. She requested that the report be
submitted to the Region Works Committee for their review and
would like to be kept apprised of when it will be available.
M. Brenner commented that the report should also be shared
with the Region's Accessibility Advisory Committee and al[the
other committees in the Region.
J. Cafarelli indicated that he will bring these recommendations
forward to his manager and share the report with the Regional
AAC.
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M. Brenner also stated that there should have been public
consultation as part of this study. It seems that the report is
being circulated after only conducting the study and no input
from any of the Accessibility Advisory Committees. This
should be considered as part of their due diligence.
J. Cafarelli thanked M. Brenner for his comments and advised
that he will bring them forward to his Manager.
T. Arvisais questioned why the pedestrian signal crossings are
not all the same across the province.
J. Cafarelli stated that the Region of Durham uses a different
methodology based on prevailing conditions, but also agrees
that the signals and crossing times should be consistent across
GTA and Ontario.
D. Sharma enquired how often the Region performs the
recalibration of signals as there seems to be so many concerns
with the time and noted that with the aging population, walking
speed will decrease.
J. Cafarelli indicated that they conduct regular checks on
signals on an annual basis and that the walking speeds have
been in effect for 30 years, but constantly being reviewed and
the policy is updated as needed.
He further noted that they are currently evaluating a new
system for pedestrian detection technology, at a pilot location in
Bowmanville.
S. Wilkinson expressed further concerns that the crossing time
is not long enough as most of the time, she is in the middle of
the crossing and the flashing hand comes up. She would
appreciate a review of some of the crossings she uses most
often.
J. Cafarelli advised that she should continue crossing as most
crossings allow for sufficient time to get across and noted that
he is available to meet with residents to review any crossings
identified as a concern.
P. Noronha- Waldriff suggested that the Region consider a
promotion campaign to better inform pedestrians about the
crossing signal.
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J. Cafarelli advised that they will be updating the website and
are currently revising their brochures and agreed to send
copies to Prem for the committee members.
K. Falconer enquired if the Region maintains any statistics on
pedestrian accidents at crossings, whether they are due to slips
and falls while trying to cross the intersection faster.
J. Cafarelli advised that they do not have any statistics on
accidents but he indicated that Durham is significantly better
than other municipalities in continually reviewing their best
practices and ensuring safe crossing access.
It was noted that updates on changes to crossings have been
sent out to the committee members recently.
K. Falconer stated that he agrees that the study should also be
circulated to the all accessibility advisory committees as well as
seek public consultation for input and feedback.
D. Tierney enquired who determines where a crossing signal
device is installed when there is no intersection. For example,
the crossing at Valley Farm Road location. - Councillor
O'Connell advised that sometimes these are initiated by
Council after review and requests from area residents.
It was noted that the sidewalk at this location is not properly
adjusted for a cross walk. Scott Booker advised that they will
be reviewing it.
K. Falconer enquired on the cost of pedestrian detection
technology and J. Cafarelli indicated that it is approximately
$9,000 / crossing for a total of $36,000 for a 4 way crossing.
D. Shields thanked Joe and Victor for attending the meeting
and providing an update on pedestrian crossing signals. The
committee members will discuss next steps with regards to
requesting on site crossing reviews with Joe and Victor as well
as obtaining a copy of the study when it is released.
Curb Cut Presentation
Scott Booker appeared before the Committee to do a
presentation on Sidewalks and Curb Cuts. Scott is the Senior
Coordinator, Design & Asset Management with the newly
formed Engineering & Public Works Department.
He mentioned that the City is provincially mandated to conduct
sidewalk inspection on an annual basis.
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Scott Booker
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There are currently approximately 287 kms of sidewalks in
Pickering. The Operations section has one crew (4 man team)
responsible for sidewalk maintenance. The City tracks all
sidewalk related concerns through the Customer Care Centre.
Once a call is received, Customer Care will assign it to
Operations for review and to be prioritized. Based on the work
required the request for repair is sent to Capital Works &
Infrastructure, Operations or Development.
Council approves sidewalk improvements and repair as part of
its annual budget process. These funds are then managed by
staff based on priority. Capital Works & Infrastructure looks
after larger Capital Projects, which usually require installing new
sidewalks into existing area (or widening existing sidewalks).
Operations receive the bulk of the residents' calls from the
Customer Care Centre. Maintenance activities include:
grinding of sidewalk joints (due to trip hazards), cheapest and
most economical solution; re- pouring of sidewalk sections
(when grinding is not enough), sidewalk intersection work which
is becoming more specialized to accommodate accessibility
concerns. They also perform winter control on designated
sidewalk areas.
S. Booker noted that sidewalk deficiencies occur with cracked
sidewalks, sunken sidewalks, gapping sidewalks, tree roots,
curb ramp issues and sub standard width.
The focus has been on the sidewalks in the downtown core.
Improvements were completed last year around the Civic
Complex and the Library.
D. Sharma enquired if the City hires consultants to expedite the
work. S. Booker advised that consultants are used but they
can be very expensive.
Councilor O'Connell mentioned that many of the sidewalk
improvements are resident driven due to complaints received at
Customer Care Centre or directly to the Councillors. Staff then
determines if the repairs can be completed within the annual
maintenance budget or whether it requires Council
endorsement.
D. Sharma suggested that the City incorporate tree design
within the sidewalks. S. Booker indicated that this can be -done
in some areas, such as the Nautical Village but it is very
expensive.
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Councillor O'Connell advised that any new development
includes a multi -use approach of pedestrian, cycling and road.
S. Booker stated that the City is working towards completing its
goals to meet the final accessibility standard under the
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. The
legislation applies to future design of new or redeveloped
spaces and will be in effect as of January 1, 2016.
Further discussion on the design of the lines in the sidewalk
and who does them as they seem to create a challenge for
some scooter and wheelchair pedestrians. It was noted that
the design is approved by the City and the work is completed
by independent contractors. .
K. Falconer mentioned that the curb cuts at the Pickering Town
Centre need to be addressed. S. Booker advised that because
it is private property and currently under construction, the City is
not able to enforce any property standards until renovations are
completed. It was however noted that by -law enforcement
officers have been in contact with the mall administration and
they are aware of the deficiencies.
4. `
Review:;and Ado tion of Minutes
Moved by M. Brenner
Seconded by K. Falconer
That the minutes of the March 27, 2013 meeting be approved as
amended.
Carried
5.
Correspondence
Update on Captioning for Council Meetings
A copy of the letter from Rogers TV was circulated for
discussion. Rogers TV will be working closely with municipal
and regional councils in Durham to ensure captioning
requirements are met when the new requirements come into
effect in 2014.
D. Shields advised that the matter will be reviewed at that time
and further action to be determined if required.
Region of Durham — Regional AAC Chairs Meeting
Notice received that the next Regional AAC meeting will be
held on Tuesday, June 4, 2013 from 2 to 4 pm in Room 1 -A.
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The Clerk's office sent an email a few weeks ago requesting
availability to attend the meeting. However, no one could
commit as it is a daytime meeting.
M. Brenner mentioned that he could attend if no one else could.
Prem to confirm
K. Falconer also noted he could attend. It was the consensus
Maurice Brenner's
of the committee that M. Brenner would attend the meeting this
attendance.
time and report back at the June meeting.
Region of Durham — Accessibility Award
Nomination form circulated to committee members for their
information. The nomination deadline is July 23rd
6.0
Business Arising from the Minutes
All
M. Brenner provided an update on the Total Wellness Forum
scheduled for Saturday, September 21St. The schedule for the
day has been completed and they are now looking for
volunteers to help with the information booth and for the event
from both committees.
D. Sharma and T. Arvisais volunteered for the morning
sessions.
7.0
2013 Accessibility Awareness Event— June 1st
All
T. Arvisais circulated the draft agenda for the event and noted
that Tom Brown is no longer available as MC. The committee
is looking for an alternate. Any suggestions would be
appreciated.
P. Noronha- Waldriff expressed her thanks to the sub group for
their assistance in preparing this event. Volunteers are also
needed to help on the day of the event.
D. Sharma and T. Arvisais volunteered for the morning and
D. Tierney and T. Logan for the afternoon.
The City is currently working on promotion design and logo for
the event.
K. Falconer advised that he is awaiting confirmation from Tracy
McCharles's office.
8.0
Other Business
Seniors Tax Credit — Healthy Home
Sue Wilkinson
S. Wilkinson is requesting support from the committee and the
Members of Council to lower the age for the government grants
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available from 65+ to 60+ as there are many seniors who could
stay in their home if they had assistance to retrofit their houses.
It was noted that this is a provincial matter, therefore the
Council of the City of Pickering would have to pass a motion to
send a letter to the province to endorse the recommendation.
M. Brenner suggested that the committee invite someone from
the province for a presentation to committee members to better
understand the grants available for seniors.
P. Noronha - Waldriff to look into possible guests and send out I P. Noronha- Waldriff to
an invitation for the meeting in June. follow -up.
Pedestrian Crossing Study
As discussed earlier, the committee is requesting that this item Prem to draft letter to
be brought up for discussion at the Regional AAC meeting in the Region.
June.
The committee further recommended that Council pass a
motion to reduce the average walking speed from 1.25 m /sec to
include the lowest walking speed to incorporate all disabled
pedestrians at all locations.
The committee members are also requesting a copy of the
study as soon as it is released and that the report be circulated
for consultation to all Accessibility Advisory committees within
Durham.
T. Arvisais enquired why the Region of Durham no longer offers
the low -flow toilet rebate program. Councillor O'Connell
advised that this was a Regional Council decision and that the
program has not been available for several years now.
Councillor O'Connell mentioned that the regional development
charges bylaw was approved today at Council and that the
bylaw takes into account all costs associated with AODA
standards.
K. Falconer commended S. Wilkinson for her presentation to
Council on the Parking by -law and the article which appeared in
the News Advertiser. The by -law is scheduled to come forward
at Council before the summer recess.
It was noted that the City will be holding a Day of Mourning
ceremony on Friday, April 26th @ 11:30 am in recognition of the
International Day of Mourning on Sunday, April 28tH
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Moved by K. Falconer
Seconded by M. Brenner
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
Meeting Adjourned: 9:40 pm
Copy: City Clerk
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