Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutDecember 4, 2017c;./yo/ DICKERING Planning & Development Committee Agenda Monday, December 4, 2017 Council Chambers 7:00 pm Chair: Councillor McLean Anything highlighted denotes an attachment or link. By clicking the links on the agenda page, you can jump directly to that section of the agenda. To manoeuver back to the agenda page use the Ctrl + Home keys simultaneously, or use the "bookmark" icon to the left of your screen to navigate from one report to the next. For information related to accessibility requirements please contact: Linda Roberts 905.420.4660 extension 2928 Iroberts©pickering.ca Cts 001 PICKERING Planning & Development Committee Agenda Monday, December 4, 2017 Council Chambers - 7:00 pm Chair: Councillor McLean (I) Part 'A' Information Reports Pages Subject: Information Report No. 11-17 Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 08/17 Averton (Brock) Limited Blocks 1,2,3 and 4, Plan 40M-2568 (Brock Road and Rex Heath Drive) 1-14 (II) Part `B' Planning & Development Reports 1. Director, City Development, Report PLN 18-17 Metrolinx's Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan City of Pickering's Response Staff Delegation Jeff Brooks, Manager, Policy & Geomatics Recommendation 15-24 1. That the comments on Metrolinx's Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan, contained in the Letter from the City's Manager, Policy & Geomatics to the Chief Planning Officer Planning and Policy, dated November 16, 2017, and provided as Appendix I to Report PLN 18-17 of the Director, City Development & CBO, be endorsed; and 2. That a copy of Report PLN 18-17 be forwarded to Metrolinx, the Ministry of Transportation, Transport Canada, VIA Rail Canada, and the Region of Durham. For information related to accessibility requirements please contact: Linda Roberts 905A20.4660 extension 2928 Iroberts a(�,pickering.ca C4 od PICKERING Planning & Development Committee Agenda Monday, December 4, 2017 Council Chambers - 7:00 pm Chair: Councillor McLean (III) Other Business (IV) Adjournment of PICKERING Information Report to Planning & Development Committee Report Number: 11-17 Date: December 4, 2017 From: Catherine Rose, MCIP, RPP Chief Planner Subject: Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 08/17 Averton (Brock) Limited Blocks 1, 2, 3 and 4, Plan 40M-2568 (Brock Road and Rex Heath Drive) 1. Purpose of this Report The purpose of this report is to provide preliminary information regarding a Zoning By-law Amendment application, submitted by Averton (Brock) Limited, to facilitate a high density residential condominium development. This report contains general information on the applicable Official Plan and other related policies, and identifies matters raised to date. This report is intended to assist members of the public and other interested stakeholders to understand the proposal. The Planning & Development Committee will hear public delegations on the application, ask questions of clarification, and identify any planning issues. This report is for information and no decision on this application is being made at this time. Staff will bring forward a recommendation report for consideration by the Planning & Development Committee upon completion of a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal. 2. Property Location and Description The subject lands are located east of Brock Road, west of William Jackson Drive, and on the north and south sides of Rex Heath Drive within the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood (see Location Map, Attachment #1). The subject lands, which comprise four blocks having a combined area of approximately 5.3 hectares, with frontages along Brock Road, William Jackson Drive and Rex Heath Drive (see Aerial Photo Map, Attachment #2). Surrounding land uses include: North: A mixed of single, semi-detached and townhouse units, and a vacant parcel of land having an area of approximately 0.3 of a hectare with frontage along Brock Road and Carousel Drive. East: Across William Jackson Drive are vacant lands owned by Infrastructure Ontario, which are zoned for a future elementary school. The Durham Catholic Distract School Board has advised that the school site is no longer required. Infrastructure Ontario is currently in the process of selling these lands. Other uses on the east of William Jackson Drive include a mix of single, semi-detached and townhouse units, Creekside Neighbourhood Park and the Pickering Golf Club. Information Report No. 11-17 Page 2 South: Vacant lands for which the City has received a Site Plan application, submitted by 1320991 Ontario Ltd. (Lebovic Enterprises Ltd.), to permit a residential condominium development consisting of 27 stacked units along Brock Road and 20 townhouse units. Further south is a hydro corridor. West: Across Brock Road, vacant City owned lands located at the northwest and southwest corners of Brock Road and Zents Drive, which are designated as "Mixed Corridors" within the City's Official Plan. The lands at the northwest corner of Brock Road and Zents Drive are planned for a future Fire Hall. 3. Original Approvals In 2014, Council approved applications for Zoning By-law Amendment and Draft Plan of Subdivision, submitted by Averton, for the subject lands. The approvals included the development of four blocks for residential uses to be developed in four separate phases. The overall approval included: two 8 storey mixed use apartment buildings with grade related commercial uses, and 4 storey stacked back-to-back townhouse blocks with integrated underground parking garages along the Brock Road frontage, and a mix of back-to-back townhouses and stacked townhouses on the remaining lands. In 2016, Averton received Site Plan Approval for Phase 1 (Block 1), which is currently under construction, to permit a total of 184 units consisting of stacked back-to-back townhouses and back-to-back townhouses. In October 2017, the City issued Site Plan Approval for Phase 2 (Block 2), which includes a total of 102 units consisting of stacked units and back-to-back townhouses. 4. Current Proposal The applicant has submitted a Zoning By-law Amendment application requesting certain changes to the originally approved zoning by-law. Specifically, the applicant proposes to utilize the Bonus Zoning provisions of the City's Official Plan to increase the maximum permitted density beyond what is allowed by the Official Plan and increase the maximum height of the buildings beyond what is permitted by the current Zoning By-law, in exchange for the provisions of a community benefit under Section 37 of the Planning Act. The applicant has requested the following specific amendments: • increase the maximum residential density of the development beyond what is permitted by the City's Official Plan, from 140 units per net hectare to 148 units per net hectare, in exchange for the provisions of a community benefit under Section 37 of the Planning Act; • increase the maximum height for apartment buildings beyond what is permitted by the current Zoning By-law, from 26.0 metres (8 storeys) to 67.0 metres (21 storeys), in exchange for the provision of a community benefit under Section 37 of the Planning Act; • reduce the minimum gross leasable floor area for all non-residential uses in an apartment building as permitted by the current Zoning By-law, from 1,000 square metres to 400 square metres; and • reduce the minimum building step -back provisions required for the portion of the apartment building facing Brock Road as permitted by the current Zoning By-law from 3.0 metres between the 3rd and 8th storey to 1.0 metre between the 3rd and 21st storey. Information Report No. 11-17 Page 3 These amendments are to facilitate a residential condominium development proposing two apartment buildings having maximum building heights of 16 and 21 storeys containing a total of 351 apartment units, with approximately 800 square metres of grade related commercial space (see Submitted Conceptual Site Plan and Submitted Conceptual Rendering, Attachments #3 and #4). In addition, the applicant proposes 150 back-to-back .stacked townhouse units. A total of 501 units are proposed within Phases 3 and 4. The table below compares the type of units and the unit counts for the previously approved development and for the current proposal. Phases Original Approval Current Proposal Unit Type Units Unit Type Units 1 (site plan approved) back-to-back townhouses 66 No change stacked back-to-back townhouses 118 2 (site plan approved) back-to-back townhouses 48 No change stacked 54 3 stacked back-to-back townhouses 60 stacked back-to-back townhouses 44 apartment units 104 apartments 157 4 stacked back-to-back townhouses 110 stacked back-to-back townhouses 106 apartments 134 apartments 194 Total Number of Units 694 units 787 units The current proposal will result in an increase in the total number of residential units by 93 units over the original proposal, all consisting of apartment units. For residential uses within Phases 3 and 4 (stacked back-to-back townhouses and apartments), the current zoning by-law requires that parking be provided at a minimum rate of 1.0 parking space per dwelling unit, plus an additional 0.2 of a parking space per. dwelling unit for visitors. Based on these rates, the applicant is required to provide a minimum of 501 parking spaces for residents and 100 parking spaces for visitors. The applicant is proposing a total of 627 spaces for residents (an additional 126 parking spaces over the by-law requirements) and 101 parking spaces for visitors all located within an underground parking structure. The applicant has advised that it has not been determined at this time whether the additional parking spaces will be sold to residents if they wish to purchase an additional space, or whether they will be offered to purchasers based on the number of bedrooms. 3 Information Report No. 11-17 Page 4 For non-residential uses, the current zoning by-law requires parking to be provided at a minimum rate of 4.0 parking spaces per 100 square metres of gross leasable floor area. Based on this rate, 32 parking spaces are required to support the commercial uses. A total of 24 surface parking spaces are provided. The additional 8 required parking spaces will be located within the underground parking structure. Phases 3 and 4 will be subject to site plan approval. 5. Policy Framework 5.1 Durham Regional Official Plan The subject lands are designated as "Living Areas" with a "Regional Corridor" overlay in the Durham Regional Official Plan. Lands within this designation are predominately intended for housing purposes. In addition, limited office development and limited retailing of goods and services, in appropriate locations, as components of mixed use developments, are permitted.• In the consideration of development proposals, regard shall be had to achieving a compact urban form, including intensive residential, office, retail and service, and mixed uses along arterial roads, in conjunction with present and potential transit facilities. Regional Corridors shall be planned and developed in accordance with the underlying land use designation, as higher density mixed-use areas, supporting higher order transit services and pedestrian oriented design. Regional Corridors are intended to support an overall, long-term density target of at least 60 residential units per gross hectare and a floor -space index of 2.5, with a wide variety of building forms, generally mid -rise in height, with some higher buildings, as detailed in municipal official plans. The application will be assessed against the policies and provisions of the Regional Official Plan during the further processing of the applications. 5.2 Pickering Official Plan The subject lands are located within the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood and are designated "Mixed Use Areas — Mixed Corridors". Mixed Use Areas are recognized as lands that have or are intended to have the widest variety of uses and highest levels of activity in the City. The Mixed Corridors designation is intended primarily for residential, retail, community, cultural and recreational uses at a scale serving the community. Minimum and maximum residential densities are established for Mixed Corridors. The permitted density range for lands within this designation is over 30 units and up to and including 140 units per net hectare. The following table outlines the maximum permissible and proposed density for the development. Units per Net Hectare Resulting total number of units for Averton Lands Maximum permitted density by the City's Official Plan 140 units/ha 742 units Proposed Maximum Density 148 units/ha 787 units Difference between maximum permitted density and proposed density additional 8 units/ha additional 45 units Information Report No. 11-17 Page 5 As noted in Section 4 of this report, the applicant originally proposed a total of 694 units. Under the current official plan policies, it is permissible for Averton to have a maximum of 742 residential units within the four phases. To facilitate the new proposal, the applicant is requesting an increase in the maximum permitted density by 8 units per net hectare, which results in an additional 45 units beyond the maximum permitted density within the City's Official Plan. Notwithstanding the unit increase requested, the Official Plan contains policy that residential densities may be restricted below the maximum density to address concerns related to such matters as design, compatibility and scale of development, and in response to provisions specified in the Neighbourhood Plan. The applicant's proposal will be reviewed in detail for conformity with the policies of the City's Official Plan. 5.3 Bonus Zoning Policies Section 37 of the Planning Act authorizes municipalities with appropriate Official Plan provisions to pass zoning by-laws for increases in height or density beyond what is permitted by the zoning by-law, in return for the provision by the applicant of community benefits. The City's Official Plan contains such policy provisions which permit City'Council to pass by-laws that grant an increase in height of a building or an increase in density not exceeding 25 percent of the density permitted by the Official Pian providing: • the density or height bonus is given only in return for the provision of specific services, facilities or matters as specified in the by-law, such as but not limited to: additional open space or community facilities, assisted or special needs housing, the preservation of heritage buildings or structures, or the preservation of natural heritage features and functions • when considering an increase in density or height, and allowing the provision of benefits off-site, the positive impacts of the exchange should benefit the social/cultural, environmental and economic health of surrounding areas experiencing the increased height and/or density • the effects of the density or height bonus have been reviewed and determined by Council to be in conformity with the general intent of the Official Plan, by considering matters such as: • the suitability of the site for the proposed increase in density and/or height in terms of parking, landscaping, and other site-specific requirements • the compatibility of any increase in density and/or height with the character of the surrounding neighbourhood; and • as a condition of granting a density or height bonus, the City requires the benefiting landowner(s) to enter into one or more agreements, registered against the title of the lands, dealing with the provision and timing of specific facilities, services or matters to be provided in return for the bonus 5 Information Report No. 11-17 Page 6 Averton is proposing to use the Bonus Zoning provisions of the City's Official Plan to permit an additional 45 units beyond the maximum permitted density by the Official Plan and increase the maximum height of the buildings beyond what is permitted by the current Zoning By-law. The City is currently assessing the appropriateness of the applicant's request to use the density bonus provisions of the Official Plan to increase the permit density and building height. 5.4 Duffin Heights Neighbourhood Policies Official Plan policies for the Mixed Use Areas — Mixed Corridors designation in this neighbourhood require higher intensity multi -unit housing forms on lands adjacent to Brock Road and restrict grade related residential development to lands adjacent to collector or local roads. The subject lands are located at the intersection of Brock Road and Rex Heath Drive, which has been identified as a Focal Point within the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood. Development within Focal Points is to contribute to the prominence of the intersection by requiring: • the inclusion of appropriate provisions in the implementing zoning by-law to address such matters as the location and extent of build -to -zones, mix of permitted uses, and required building articulation, and • the use of other site development features such as building design, building material, architectural features or structures, landscaping, public art and public realm enhancements such as squares or landscaped seating areas to help achieve focal point prominence 5.5 Duffin Heights Neighbourhood Development Guidelines The intent of the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood Development Guidelines is to further the objectives of the Official Plan and to achieve the following design objectives for the neighbourhood: • to create a streetscape which is attractive, safe and encourages social interaction within the neighbourhood • to establish a central focus to the neighbourhood which is safe, lively and attractive • to provide a diversity of uses to support neighbourhood and City functions The subject lands are delineated as Brock Road Streetscape on the Tertiary Plan, which encourages higher density, mid -rise and mixed use buildings with a high level of architectural quality. The Tertiary Plan also identifies the intersection of Brock Road and Rex Heath Drive as a focal point that will require special design considerations through the use of appropriate building heights, massing, architectural features and landscaping in order to establish a prominent image at these intersections. Guidelines for Brock Road Streetscape require that Targe walls visible from Brock Road to be articulated through various treatments such as offsets in massing. Blank fagades will not be permitted facing Brock Road or any street. Information Report No. 11-17 Page 7 The application will be assessed against the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood policies and Neighbourhood Guidelines and provisions of the Pickering Official Plan during the further processing of the application. 5.6 ZoningBy-law 3037 Blocks 1 and 2 are currently zoned MU -MD -1 and Blocks.3 and 4 are zoned MU -28 within Zoning By-law 3037, as amended by By-law 7444/15. The MU -MD -1 zone category permits stacked townhouse, back-to-back townhouse and back-to-back stacked townhouse. The lands zoned MU -28 permits all of the uses in MU -MD -1 as well as apartments and a range of commercial uses. The applicant is requesting to amend the site specific zoning by-law to establish a maximum density beyond what is permitted by the City's Official Plan, increase the maximum building height for an apartment building, reduce the minimum gross leasable floor area for non-residential uses within an apartment building, and reduce the minimum building step -back required above the 3rd storey. 6. Comments Received 6.1 Public comments from public open house meeting and written submissions On October 16, 2017, a Public Open House meeting was hosted by the City Development Department to inform area residents about the development proposal. Approximately 15 households (approximately 25 to 30 people) attended the Open House meeting. The following is a list of key concerns that were verbally expressed by area residents at the meeting and written submissions received from approximately 15 residents: • opposed to the applicant proposing the use of the Bonus Zoning provisions of the City's Official Plan which would allow additional units beyond the maximum permitted density by the Official Plan and opposed to the increase in the maximum height of the buildings beyond what is permitted by the Zoning By-law • questioned what the community benefit will be if the City supports the Bonus Zoning request • questioned why the applicant would not design the building to meet the current City policies • concerned that the proposed tower heights of 16 and 21 storeys are out of character with the surrounding community • concerned that the proposed tower heights will permit residents to overlook into backyards and have shadow impacts • concerned that the proposal will increase traffic congestion in the area and concerned for the safety of children • concerned that there is not a sufficient number of resident and visitor parking proposed to support the development and there will be overflow parking on neighbouring streets • concerned that the proposed development does not provide a sufficient amount of land dedicated to park space • concerned about the overall lack of available parkland and community facilities for area residents on the east side of Brock Road • commented that the City's notification radius is too small and should be increased to notify a larger number of residents 7 Information Report No. 11-17 Page 8 6.2 City Department Comments Engineering Services The Engineering Services Department have reviewed the rezoning application and have no comments or concerns. 6.3 Agency Comments As of the writing of this report, no comments or concerns have been received. 7. Planning & Design Section Comments The following is a summary of key concerns/issues or matters of importance raised to date. These matters, and other identified through the circulation and detailed review of the proposal, are required to be addressed by the applicant prior to a final recommendation report to Planning & Development Committee: • ensure conformity with the City's Official Plan and Duffin Heights Neighbourhood policies • assess the suitability and appropriateness of the site for the proposed increase in building height and density • assess any potential shadow impacts from the proposed 16 and 21 storey buildings on the surrounding community • determine the specific community benefit that the applicant proposes for the additional increase in building height and density, and its suitability for the community. • ensure the proposal addresses the goals and objectives of the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood Development Guidelines with respect to building siting and setbacks, building heights and massing, architectural features and materials, landscaping, outdoor open space, and pedestrian connectivity within and external to the site • review the applicant's request to decrease the building step -back from 3.0 metres to 1.0 metre on buildings proposed to be 16 and 21 storeys in height • review whether additional parkland is needed on the east side of Brock Road to support the additional population anticipated in the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood • assess whether additional parkland dedication should be collected on a per unit basis for Phases 3 and 4 • review the applicant's request to reduce the minimum gross leasable floor area for commercial uses to ensure that sufficient opportunity is available in the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood to provide commercial uses to service the area residents, and ensure the mixed use requirements within the Brock Road corridor is in conformity with the direction of the Region of Durham's and the City's Official Plan • assess whether the additional residential units will have any traffic impacts on Brock Road and surrounding road network • ensure sufficient parking is provided for residents, visitors and commercial uses to support the mixed use development • further issues may be identified following receipt and review of comments from the circulated departments, agencies and public 8 Information Report No. 11-17 Page 9 The City Development Department will conclude its position on the applications after it has received and assessed comments from the circulated department, agencies and public. 8. Information Received Copies of the plans and studies listed below are available for viewing on the City's website at pickering.ca/devapp or in person at the offices of the City of Pickering, City Development Department: • Planning Rationale Report, prepared by The Biglieri Group Ltd., dated July, 2017 • Addendum Letter #2 to the Environmental Noise Assessment, prepared by Valcoustics, dated June 19, 2017 • Stormwater Management Letter, prepared by Sabourin Kimble & Associates, dated May 29, 2017 • Geotechnical Investigation Report, prepared by Alston Associates, dated June 5, 2017 • Soil and Groundwater Condition Letter, prepared by Alton Associates, dated May 30, 2017 • Traffic Study Addendum, prepared by BA Group, dated June 20, 2017 9. Procedural Information 9.1 General • written comments regarding this proposal should be directed to the City Development Department • oral comments may be made at the Public Information Meeting • all comments received will be noted and used as input to a Planning Report prepared by the City Development Department for a subsequent meeting of Council or a Committee of Council • any member of the public who wishes to reserve the option to appeal Council's decision must provide comments to the City before Council adopts any by-law for this proposal • any member of the public who wishes to be notified of Council's decision regarding this proposal must request such in writing to the City Clerk 10. Owner/Applicant Information The owner of this property is Averton (Brock) Limited and represented by The Biglieri Group. 9 Information Report No. 11-17 Page 10 Attachments 1. Location Map 2. Aerial Photo Map 3. Submitted Conceptual Site Plan 4. Submitted Conceptual Rendering Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By: Cristina Celebre, MCIP, RPP Principal Planner, Development Review ,2 Nilesh Surti, MCIP, RPP Manager, Development Review 1 & Urban Design CC:Id Date of Report: November 17, 2017 10 Catherine Rose, MCIP, RPP Chief Planner Attach l ent Block 3 (Phase 3) SUBJECT LANDS '*- ZENTS DRIVE Block 4 (Phase 4 BROCK ROA 111111111 EE TALLY STREET 0 U MEMO NUMMI 1111101111 11111111111 Block 2 (Phase 2) REX,HEATH DRIVE 4......9y, ENWICH GLEN rz .0„,.....„,..,..., Block 1 (Phase 1)c? Z 0 1- cn 0 m_ NANTUCKET -CHASE. alt co CALICO AM JACKSON DRIVE MEWS 11 LIATRIS DRIVE w' z z z w Al 044 Location Map File: A 08/17 PICKERING City Development Department Applicant:Averton (Brock) Limited Property Description: Block 1,2,3 and 4, Plan 40M-2568 Date: Nov. 15, 2017 fhe Corpora hon at the G at RA ring Plaouced (In part)under license from:0 Queens Pnnler, Organo Minstry of Natural Resources. All rights reserved.;® Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, Department of Natural Resources. AD rights reserved.; b Teanel Enterprises Inc. and its eupoliers all rights reserved.: oi Muniopal Property Assessment Colporalion and its suppliers aingus reserved.; — SCALE. 1.3,500 n' TPN-RU HIS IS NOT A PLAN OF SURVEY. 17 X i Dusty • give; r.1JPS!L' . �1IIJIIIIlfi �j - %b tlIIII IIIII I lift!!? �. ,�1 II inm w glum EI!II[ iP=. �. �Il�IIlIt�A1 f rinividnenikylCv4le�� ! ! g mown �L � dl!�Il{lf6 �' e�IECIElitfllpts '� EIlIl911llrll[IIk��Io +�91F IRlI@£I!II �� E[�II�EIIIIII[[rlfl .` ;En cdref P1CKERING City Development Department Aerial Photo Map File: A 08117 Applicant:Averton (Brock) Limited Property Description: Block 1,2,3 and 4, Plan 40M2568 Date: Nov. 17, 2017 iSTo. Corporauvn el Ins Lay of Piase q—Promettm on peri sumer fico se Item Lieern Ammer. Grim Nnsay of namael Refmueef. ]lirighlf resarvem.;* er Maleity the Cueen In Right of Canaria. oepanmee er NAM Reseseei AS inks rcfeneA� Terme! Eneeryrlses Ina. elle As emppteta el 1i FAs reeeivee,;G Mwemar Prtyeny Asseasrreni CnryarafannM As a.pti.era NA rstteerved.. SCALE: 1:10,000 THIS r5 NarA PLAN of SURVEY. 12 24 81218148:11 '.. 0404 ilk 02,64 481,118 IBET CKE4 ": B1 1 T 2 BACK IC1Ylh'^ Brock Road my .00. mmmmm .>m...®.,1.®..... ®............0..® a®.lfps.. I 24 SIACKEI) 0,61 TD 0294 16810 26 SI A0ME4 M MOMM00110118 172 <1 4< STOREY 8E8IC4NT1AL TOWER Dill11::11.1.11 <1-41 (11.li,l ei I�r BLOC K-4 IS STppEY ' 328$14811'!1107 I OWEN' -BLOCK-3 qp . @ @ 4 Id 0 @ ®ld a.■®s"iaa600 u®.moo SY...®a'®v.ti.` 0. bi 0.10.00.800,10 William Jackson Drive PICKERING City Development Department Submitted Conceptual Site Plan File No: A 08/17 Applicant: Averton (Brock) Limited Property Description: Blocks 1,2,3 and 4, Plan 40M-2568 FULL SCALE COPIES OF THIS PLAN ARE AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING AT THE CITY OF PICKERING CITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT. DATE:Nov 15, 2017 3 0 Illi ,ae, io• 00 00 ,._ •.,1 r „,-„---..magors.A.--..._ Air 111111110. 1,.. ,.... ivy* rii, awn I .. F.,- ig mi. I 1 - _. L ii„, ��.r„/ NI .1 ~ c ?iYmI4ii9jgu. Mimi ( g III II WA I eUi Iii i i N 'r _ l Ir - - — _,7 � � . r _ _ �_ 1% _ _,_ 1!I1Iil � _ _ _ �_ Iril rm. m 1 1 _ ;ice, 'il ..ems Y t i U -' utile .-- .)� �� ` ILL 1 rail _.-,_ .§,ii — 1 _ 1 . nig 1 ul1his � �� ~^^' �"'Iit ii i�P'. : , ►_Li y fes, \\._ Y ”' ',N,-1 I r 4 `�4.. ���� I Ir ir!Ir- +I �?�� ,j : it � r i it k' 'ice,-i.."`,���� . , .'�,�. '� �: t1 .� Ir ?. V fampro$6 41'1-yw 0-, '^ � Illar it r iC� err Submitted Conceptual Rendering File No: AQs117 PICKERING Applicant: Averton (Brock) Limited City Development Property Description: Blocks 1,2,3 and 4, Plan 40M-2568 Department FULL SCALE COPIES OF THIS PLAN ARE AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING AT THE CITY OF PICKERING CITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT. DATE: Nov15, 2Di 7 3 0 DICKERING Report to Planning & Development Committee Report Number: PLN 18-17 Date: December 4, 2017 From: Kyle Bentley Director, City Development & CBO Subject: Metrolinx's Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan City of Pickering's Response File: T-2500-004 Recommendation: 1. That the comments on Metrolinx's Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan, contained in the Letter from the City's Manager, Policy & Geomatics to the Chief Planning Officer Planning and Policy, dated November 16, 2017, and provided as Appendix I to Report PLN 18-17 of the Director, City Development & CBO, be endorsed; and 2. That a copy of Report PLN 18-17 be forwarded to Metrolinx, the Ministry of Transportation, Transport Canada, VIA Rail Canada, and the Region of Durham. Executive Summary: In 2006, Metrolinx brought forward its first Regional Transportation Plan, entitled "The Big Move". In accordance with the Metrolinx Act, 2006, Metrolinx has undertaken a review of its Regional Transportation Plan, and released the "Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area" for comment (see www.metrolinx.com/thepian/). Notice was posted on the Province's online Environmental Registry and comments were solicited from agencies, stakeholders and the public by November 17, 2017. To meet this deadline, staff prepared and submitted comments directly to Metrolinx. This report seeks Council endorsement of the comments submitted to Metrolinx on this matter. Financial Implications: No direct costs to the City are referenced within the Draft Plan. Once the Plan is adopted, one of Metrolinx's next steps is to prepare an Investment Strategy for this Plan, and to complete,individual business case analyses for specific projects. Staff will prepare a report to Council on the Investment Strategy, and the business case analyses that impact the City, once they have been released. Discussion: 1. Metrolinx is undertaking a review of its Regional Transportation Plan In 2006, Metrolinx brought forward its first Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), entitled "The Big Move". The Big Move guides the work being done to transform the transportation network in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (the GTHA). It provides a vision and set of goals for the GTHA transportation .system, and was developed with diverse partners and stakeholders from across the region. The Big Move articulates how the transportation system will provide travellers with convenient and reliable connections and support a high quality of life, a prosperous and competitive economy, and a protected environment in the GTHA. 15 Report PLN 18-17 December 4, 2017 Subject: Metrolinx's Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan Page 2 In accordance with the Metrolinx Act, 2006, Metrolinx has undertaken a review of The Big Move. The review is necessary to ensure that the RTP continues to reflect the transportation priorities of the region, and can do so within a twenty-five year timeframe to 2041. On October 4, 2017, Metrolinx released the "Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area" and posted notice on the Province's online Environmental Registry. The notice solicits comments on the Draft Plan which are due no later than November 17, 2017. The Draft Plan builds on the success of The Big Move, recommending strategies and priority actions that will help achieve the original vision for a reliable and high quality regional transportation system, supporting a high quality of life, a prosperous and competitive economy, and a protected environment. The Plan is organized around the following five strategies: Strategy #1: Complete the Delivery of Current Regional Transit Projects A major focus of the Draft Plan is the development of GO Regional Express Rail to transform the existing GO rail system from a commuter -focused service into a regional express system with frequent all -day and two-way service. The completion of 15 other transit projects that are "In Delivery" (under construction or in the engineering design stage) and 13 projects that are "In Development" (in the planning and design stage) will extend the reach of convenient transit via subway, Bus Rapid Transit, Light Rail Transit and GO Transit. In Pickering, this includes the Durham — Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit project along Kingston Road. Strategy #2: Connect More of the Region with Frequent Rapid Transit The Draft Plan designates a Frequent Rapid Transit Network that will connect more people in the region with the places they want to go and provide an attractive alternative to driving. Priority Bus Corridors and Regional Express Buses will provide fast and frequent transit services to the parts of the region that are remote from rail, Light Rail Transit, Bus Rapid Transit and subway service. Meeting travellers' needs to 2041 will require further expansions to GO Regional Express Rail, other surface transit systems and subways. In Pickering, this includes frequent regional express bus service on Highway 401 and Highway 407,.and priority bus service on Bayly Street, Taunton Road, Whites Road and Brock Road. Strategy #3: Optimize the Transportation System The third strategy focuses on optimizing the transportation system in the GTHA. This includes: integrating fares and service across the region so travellers can move seamlessly from one transit system to another without paying double fares; enhancing transit services that are provided for the "first and last mile" of every trip; and, integrating mobility services which will allow travellers to access a fully coordinated and enhanced suite of travel options from different providers. The transportation system will provide universal, barrier -free access. In addition, an enhanced HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) system will support faster, more reliable bus service and help make carpooling more attractive. Roads and highways will be managed to support transit use. HOV lanes on Highway 401 through Pickering are to be further studied. 16 Report PLN 18-17 December 4, 2017 Subject: Metrolinx's Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan Page 3 Strategy #4: Integrate Land Use and Transportation To achieve the vision for the region, land use decision-making must align with transportation planning and investment. The Draft Plan contains actions to better integrate land use and transportation planning, especially around transit stations and mobility hubs. Regional collaboration supported by appropriate regulatory measures will encourage the planning of communities and road networks to support transit, cycling and walking. Parking management will encourage car sharing and prepare the, region for the arrival of autonomous vehicles. A Regional Cycling Network will make it easier for cyclists to commute to work. The cycling network in Pickering includes the Waterfront Trail, the Trans -Canada Trail, the Greenbelt Route, Highway 7 from the York -Durham Townline to Brock Road, Taunton Road, Whites Road south of Taunton Road, and Kingston Road. Strategy #5: Prepare for an Uncertain Future The fifth strategy focuses on establishing a provincial framework that will provide guidance for the evaluation and regulation of new transportation technologies, such as automated vehicles and shuttles. Regional coordination will produce a transportation system that is resilient to flooding and other impacts of climate change. Joint actions, including a transition to low -carbon transit vehicles, will reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions. Transit providers will partner with the private sector to drive innovation in mobility. 2. Council is requested to endorse Staff Comments The Draft Plan builds on The Big Move and Metrolinx's efforts to develop a more sustainable transportation for the future, while supporting the Province's vision for increased growth and intensification, as expressed through the new Provincial Growth Plan. While the Draft Plan provides a solid foundation for moving forward, Metrolinx recognizes there is still room for further refinement and improvement of the plan, and is seeking the input of municipalities and other stakeholders. During recent discussions at Metrolinx's Municipal Technical Committee, a large number of municipalities (including City staff) expressed concern that the November 17, 2017 deadline was not practical for receiving municipal Council comments. As a compromise, Metrolinx suggested that, for those municipal Councils that could not make the November 17th deadline, municipal staff submit comments by the deadline and have their comments endorsed by their Councils as soon as possible. Accordingly, staff are seeking endorsement of the comments submitted to Metrolinx on November 16, 2017 (Appendix I). Staff's comments focus on: • the recognition of a potential future airport in Pickering, in accordance with Council's recent position • the inclusion of high speed rail in the CP Havelock rail corridor, and the development of a joint VIA -GO rail station in Pickering's City Centre, in accordance with Council's recent position 17 Report PLN 18-17 December 4, 2017 Subject: Metrolinx's Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan Page 4 ® the inclusion of appropriate transit and transportation infrastructure to support growth and development within Seaton prior to 2041, in accordance with the Central Pickering Development Plan and the Pickering Official Plan; and ® the provision of additional connections for pedestrians, cyclists, transit and other road users, travelling across the 401 within the City of Pickering, including the connection of Squires Beach Road and Notion Road, and a Church Street interchange Appendix: Appendix I Letter to Leslie Woo, Chief Planning Officer Planning and Policy, Metrolinx dated November 16, 2017 Prepared By: Jeff Brooks, MCIP, RPP Manager, Policy & Geomatics JB:CR:Id Approved/Endorsed By: Catherine Rose, MCIP, RPP Chief Planner Kyle Bentley, P.Eng. Director, City Development & CBO Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Tony Prevedel, P.Eng. Chief Administrative Officer 18 Appendix No. I to Report No. PLN 18-17 Letter to Chief Planning Officer Planning and Policy Metrolix, dated November 16, 2017 19 c4od P I C KE R1 N G City Development Department Sent by email November 16, 2017 Leslie Woo Chief Planning Officer Planning and Policy Metrolinx 97 Front Street West Toronto, ON M5J 1E6 Subject: Metrolinx's draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan City of Pickering Comments File: T-2500-004 In response to Ontario Environmental Registry posting 013-1550, regarding Metrolinx's draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan, City of Pickering Staff offer the following comments: 1. Pickering International Airport On June 11, 2013, the Government of Canada announced a responsible and balanced approach for developing the federally -owned Pickering Lands. This approach sets aside land for a potential future airport and the creation of Rouge National Urban Park. To update the current airport site designation and to replace the current Pickering Airport Site Zoning Regulations, Transport Canada is following a regulatory process to: ® Declare a smaller portion of the Pickering Lands an airport site, as defined in the Aeronautics Act, subsection 5.4(1); and • Propose Pickering Airport Site Zoning Regulations, under the Aeronautics Act, subsection 5.4(2). These regulations aim to protect a new, smaller Pickering Airport site for future aviation needs, by ensuring land use and development adjacent to and in the vicinity of the airport site does not interfere with safe aircraft operations. The current Regional Transportation Plan (the "Big Move") acknowledged and illustrated a future airport in Pickering. The development of a future airport is also recognized in both the Durham Regional Official Plan and the City of Pickering Official Plan. However, there is no acknowledgement of the proposed future airport in Metrolinx's draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan. It should be noted that on October 10, 2017, City Council adopted the following resolution: "That the Federal Government be advised that the City of Pickering supports the development of an airport in Pickering, subject to the results identified in the Aviation Sector Analysis — Pickering Airport Study and the appropriate Environmental Assessments." 20 Pickering Civic Complex 1 One The Esplanade 1 Pickering, Ontario L1V 6K7 T. 905.420.4617 1 F. 905.420.7648 1 Toll Free 1.866.683.2760 1 citydev@pickering.ca 1 pickering.ca City of Pickering Comments November 16, 2017 Page 2 of 5 The development of the proposed airport will play an important role in terms of both passenger and goods movement. This should be reflected within the Regional Transportation Plan accordingly. As such, it is recommended that the draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) be modified to acknowledge the development of a potential future airport, and that the RTP address the necessary surface transportation networks (roads, goods movement and transit) that would be required to support the development of this facility. 2. VIA Rail Service Improvements VIA rail provides rail services to business class passengers within and beyond the GTHA. However these services, as well as associated connections with GO, are not formally acknowledged within the draft RTP. The City has had discussions with VIA about improvements to their system that would benefit residents of the City and broader region. On June 12, 2017, City Council received report PLN 10-17 and adopted the following resolution: "That Council request VIA Rail and Metrolinx to move forward with identifying, planning and implementing a joint Pickering GO and VIA Rail station within the Pickering City Centre; and that Council support the efforts of VIA Rail in investigating the introduction of high frequency rail service in the CN Havelock rail corridor." As part of its bid for Amazon's second headquarters, on October, 10, 2017, Council reaffirmed its support for high speed rail services, by adopting the following resolution: "That Council request VIA Rail Canada and Metrolinx to move forward with identifying, planning and implementing high frequency rail service on the CP Havelock rail corridor, which in turn will help attract key investment to the Pickering Innovation Corridor and the Federal Pickering Lands site; and that the appropriate Environmental Assessment (EA) process for high frequency rail service on the CP Havelock rail corridor commence no later than September 30, 2018." It is recommended that the draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) be modified to acknowledge and illustrate a potential future high speed rail corridor within CP Havelock Rail Corridor, and a joint VIA -GO rail station in the Pickering City Centre. 3. Transportation Services to support growth in the Seaton community In 2004, the Province of Ontario released the Central Pickering Development Plan under the Ontario Planning and Development Act, 2004. The plan establishes a comprehensive new vision for • Central Pickering: that of a sustainable urban community in Seaton integrated with a thriving agricultural community in the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve and an extensive Natural .Heritage System. The Central Pickering Development Plan regards a transportation network as including streets, roads and transit lines, pedestrian trails and bicycle paths. The plan seeks to establish a more effective balance among these various modes — one that reduces travel times and encourages walking. To realize this objective, it is the policy of this plan that the introduction of transit services be facilitated as development occurs. 21 City of Pickering Comments November 16, 2017 Page 3of5 The first phase of Seaton is currently being constructed, and it is anticipated that 1800 units per year will be constructed over the next 15 years. By 2031, the Seaton Community will be largely built -out. To ensure consistency with the Central Pickering Development Plan prepared by the Province, the Region's Transportation Master Plan, and the policies and designations of the City's Official Plan, it is recommended that the following transportation infrastructure and transit services be included in the RTP, within the 2041.timeframe: • Extend priority bus service on Whites Road north to Highway 7. • Extend rapid transit services along Highway 7. from the Town of Markham to Brock Road and Highway 7. This will provide transit services within the Pickering Innovation Corridor. • Extend GO rail services along the CP Belleville line to Seaton. • Include a Mobility Hub in the vicinity of Brock Road, Taunton Road, and the CP Belleville rail line. A Gateway Hub was illustrated in the 2008 RTP. • Extend the secondary bicycle route on Whites Road from Taunton Road to Highway 7. • Change the designation of the Highway 407 Transitway, from Kennedy Road to Brock Road, from "Frequent Regional Express Bus" to "Transitway". A separate transitway, parallel to Highway 407, has been planned for this location, as opposed to frequent bus service operating in mixed traffic conditions. The notice of completion of the Environmental Project Report for the "Highway 407, Kennedy Road to Brock Road, Transitway Transit Project" has been issued by the Ministry of Transportation. 4. New connections across Highway 401 Highway 401 presents a significant obstacle for those travelling north and south of the highway. Presently, there are limited routes (i.e., 3 highway interchanges — Whites Road, Liverpool Road and Brock Road, 1 flyover — Rougemount Drive, and 1 Pedestrian bridge) that pedestrians, cyclists, transit and other road users can take. To improve connections and travel options for pedestrians, cyclists, transit and other road users, it is recommended that Metrolinx, the Ministry of Transportation, and the Region of Durham collectively work with the City to explore and implement opportunities for additional Highway 401 crossings, including: • An additional pedestrian bridge at Valley Farm Road/Sandy Beach Road and the Highway 401 to facilitate pedestrian connections between the north and south halves of Pickering's urban growth centre. • A new Highway 401 interchange at Church Street and Highway 401, which would serve the new tourist destination (Durham Live) south west of the interchange. • New Highway 401 flyovers associated with: the extension of Notion Road to Squires Beach Road; and, a new arterial road crossing in the vicinity of the Ontario Hydro corridor on the western edge of the City's urban growth centre. 22 City of Pickering Comments November 16, 2017 Page 4 of 5 5. Other Matters In addition, to the comments above, City staff offer the following comments for consideration: Other Transit Network improvements ® The Bayly Street priority bus route designation from Liverpool Road to Brock Street should be changed to LRT/BRT designation. The Region's TMP review shows that this segment is to have rapid transit in exclusive lanes by 2031. There is a large confluence of transit routes at this location as they enter the Pickering GO station. Exclusive lanes and a bus only access to the Pickering GO station will ensure the rapid delivery of transit services. • To facilitate priority bus service in the Taunton. Road/Steeles Avenue corridor, Steeles Avenue will need to be improved east of Regional Road 30. It is recommended that Metrolinx take a lead role in bringing together the various parties (Le., City of Toronto, York Region and Region of Durham) to advance this project in a timely fashion. Other Cycling Network improvements ® Although Sideline 12 is being used as a cycling route within the Proposed Regional Cycling Network, it is a gravel road and does not meet the standards of Ontario Traffic Manual Book 18. Instead City staff propose that Westney Road from 7th Concession to 9th Concession be identified as a proposed route. Westney Road is proposed to be hard surfaced in our 5 year plan. ® It should be noted that all of the On and Off Road routes identified in the Proposed Regional Cycling Network will need to be constructed or brought up to the standards identified in the Ontario Traffic Manual Book 18 standards. Addressing the Movement of Hazardous Goods ® Although Metrolinx highlights the need to promote integrated planning for rail corridors, there is no mention of rationalizing the movement of hazardous goods through populated areas. As part of this initiative, Metrolinx should engage the freight industry and other stakeholders to examine goods movement alternatives and measures to reduce the risk of a future incident occurring. Monitoring and Plan Performance • The draft RTP sets a number of lofty targets, but does not always provide a clear indication of what measures will be put in place to achieve these targets (e.g. achieving Vision Zero, achieving an increase of 60% of school trips by walking or cycling). The key performance indicators listed within the Plan need to be correlated with associated programs and deliverables. This should be undertaken in concert with preparation of a "regional transportation big data strategy", as outlined in the Plan. 23 City of Pickering Comments November 16, 2017 Page 5 of 5 Financing and Implementing the Plan It is our understanding that following the adoption of this Plan, Metrolinx will endeavor to prepare a more detailed Investment Strategy, as well as business case analyses for future projects. The strategy and associated business case analyses must take into account local and regional facility and operational improvements needed to support the Plan's implementation (e.g. eliminating level rail crossings to facilitate new GO rail services, providing local cycling connections and new bus laybys to facilitate access to GO stations, acquiring new rolling stock to support a 24 hour regional transit network, etc.), as well as the funding mechanisms and partnerships needed to achieve the Plan's goals. Please note that these comments will be presented to the City's Planning & Development Committee on December 4th for endorsement by City Council on December 11th Yours truly Jeff Brooks, MCIP, RPP, AMCT Manager, Policy & Geomatics JB:jc J:\Documents\Transportation\T-2500\T-2500-004\2017 Draft RTP\Comments on draft 2041 RTP.docx Copy: Jacques Fauteux, Director of Government and Community Relations, VIA Rail Canada Perry Papadatos, Regional Manager, Pickering Site Operations, Transport Canada Katerina Minaeva, Senior Policy Analyst, Ministry of Transportation Susan Siopis, Commissioner of Works, Region of Durham Brian Bridgeman, Commissioner of Planning & Economic Development, Region, of Durham Director, Engineering Services Director, City Development & CBO Chief Planner 24