City of London, Ontario, Canada - Pedestrian Pathway Connection … · 2013-11-22 · Summer 2013 EA Phase1 Fall 2013 Agency/Stakeholder Consultation 2013 ... any liability whatsoever,

Pedestrian Pathway Connection Across CNR Lands in Kiwanis

ParkParkMunicipal Class

E i t l A tEnvironmental AssessmentPublic Information Centre #1

November 13, 2013

Welcome

Welcome to the first Public Information Centre (PIC) for the

Pedestrian Pathway Connection Across CNR Lands in Kiwanis Park

Class Environmental Assessment (EA).

The purpose of this PIC is to present:

• a description of the Class EA process;

• a summary of the existing conditions;

• a summary of the problems and opportunities;

• a description of the alternative solutions considered (i.e. do nothing, improve the existing pedestrian/bicycle crossing construct a new pedestrian/bicycle crossing);pedestrian/bicycle crossing, construct a new pedestrian/bicycle crossing);

• the evaluation criteria and methodology; and

• a summary of the future activities to be completed as part of the EA Study.y p p y


Welcome

Your comments are important to us. Following your review of the information, please complete one of the comment forms and

place it in the box provided or send it back to the address on the form prior to November 29, 2013. The comment form can also

be found on the City website. If you have any questions our representatives will be pleased to assist you.

Project Team

AECOM Canada Ltd.

Corri Marr - Project Manager Tony Fediw – Project Engineer

City of London

Jeff Bruin – Project ManagerAndrew MacPherson – Parks Planning y j g

Jill Deman – EcologistNancy Martin – Project Coordinator

Please direct additional inquiries to:

Corri Marr Project Manager

gManagerLinda McDougall - Ecologist

Please direct additional inquiries to:

Jeff Bruin Project ManagerCorri Marr - Project Manager Phone: 519.963.5872Fax: 519.673.5975Email: [email protected]

Jeff Bruin - Project ManagerPhone: 519.661.2500 ext. 5067Fax: 519.963.1483Email: [email protected]

Additional information can be found on the City’s website at:

www.london.ca/residents/Environment/EAs/Pages/Kiwanis‐Park.aspx


Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Process

The Class EA process is a five phase planning process which:

identifies reasonable solutions to the

Schedule AProjects Typical Municipal

Infrastructure Projects

Pre‐approved – Proceed to Construction

Problem;

considers advantages and disadvantages including net environmental effects; Phase 1 Identify & Describe the

Typical Municipal Infrastructure Projects

Pre‐approved – Notify Public Prior to Implementation

Schedule A+Projects

environmental effects;

requires public consultation; and

provides clear documentation that d ib th d i i ki

Schedule BProjects

Problem or Opportunity

Phase 2

Prepare Environmental Inventory,

Identify/Evaluate Alternative Solutions, Effects & Mitigation

Problem/Opportunity

describes the decision making process.

This study will :

Follow the Schedule ‘B’ Class EA i

Schedule CProjects

Alternative Solutions

Alternative Design Phase 3

Evaluate Alternative Design Concept

and Establish the Preferred Solution –

Prepare and File Project File

requirements.

Complete Phases 1 & 2.

Document the decision making process Prepare and File Environmental Study

( )

Concepts for Preferred Solution

Environmental Study Report

Phase 4

Design Concept, Identify Environmental Effects – Mitigation & Preferred Concept

in a Screening Report to be filed for a 30 calendar day review period.

Report (ESR) Documenting Phases 1‐3 for Public Review

Report

Project Constructed / Restore Disturbed

Areas

Implementation

Phase 5All Projects

This project is proceeding as a Schedule B


Project Schedule

Notice of Project Commencement

issued September 17, Project Team Meetings

Receive and Address

Notice of PIC issuedOctober 28 2013

PI C #1November 13,

Summer 2013

Class EAPhase 1

Fall 2013

Agency/StakeholderConsultationp ,

2013

Distribution of :•Letter•Newspaper Notice

g

• Project Team meets regularly throughout the

•Review existing conditions

•Identify the Problem f

CommentsOctober 28, 2013 ,

2013

•Present evaluation criteria & methodology

•Alternative solutions


f

•UTRCA•MNR•MOE

•Newspaper Notice•City of London website

study•Includes City personnel and consultants

•Confirm the need and justification

•Identify solutions

•Evaluation Criteria

Winter 2013

•City of London website

•CNR•AANDC/MAA

Draft Recommendations

to the City

Notice of Project Completion

City of London Pathway Connection Across CNR Lands In Kiwanis Park Municipal Class Environmental Assessment

30 Day Review Period

Winter 2013

City Council Endorsement

Notice of PICTBD PIC #2

TBD 2014

Class EAPhase 2

Document Class EA process,

•File Class EA documentation for mandatory


•Present evaluation of alternatives and recommended alternative

Distribution of :•Letter•Newspaper Notice•City of London website

•Evaluate alternative solutions

•Identify impacts•Identify mitigation

alternatives and recommendations

30 day review period.

Indicates where we are in the process.

•City of London website

measures


Study Area


Label

_̂ _̂

POTENTIAL PEDESTRIAN PATHWAY CONNECTION ACROSS CNR LANDS IN

KIWANIS PARK

Scale: As Shown

Date: November 2013

This drawing has been prepared for the use of AECOM'sclient and may not be used, reproduced or relied uponby third parties, except as agreed by AECOM and its client,as required by law or for use by governmental reviewing agencies. AECOM accepts no responsibility, and deniesany liability whatsoever, to any party that modifies this drawing without AECOM's express written consent.

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Silverwoods Park

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Glass Ave Park

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Nelson Park

Admiral Park

Argyle Arena

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Study Area

Existing Secondary Recreational Bike Route

Existing Multi-Use Pathway

Parks

Context Map

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Metres

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Background

• Kiwanis Park is a long linear park that extends south from Dundas Street to Hamilton Road and links to the Thames River.

• Multiple projects have been completed as part of the pathway system from 2010 – 2013 including improvements to the multi‐use pathway within Kiwanis Park.

• These improvements included the construction of an asphalt path extending the full length of the park, linking neighborhoods surrounding Pottersburg Creek to the Thames Valley Parkway (TVP) lti th t(TVP) multi‐use pathway system.

• The connection located between Trafalgar Street and Tweedsmuir Avenue has not been completed due to the presence of the CNR liline.

• It is a priority of City Council to link the Kiwanis corridor with the TVP multi‐use pathway system.


Project Justificationh l l d f d h d h f ll• The 2005 Bicycle Master Plan identified a pathway extending the full length of Kiwanis Park linking to the TVP and a crossing of the CNR lands.

• The Parks & Recreation Master Plan (2009) recommended the need to address gaps within the pathway system.

• The Thames Valley Corridor Plan (2011) also identified completing gaps in the pathway system as a priority for the City.

• Trespassing across CNR lands in this area is an ongoing safety issue. CNR is required to implement access control measures on their property by order of Transport Canada.

• The pathway within Kiwanis Park is expected to generate intensities of use similar to other secondary paths in the City once fully constructed (ie. Stoney Creek– approximately 12,000 users/monthly).


Existing Conditions – Social Environment

• Pathways within proximity to residential areas encourage and facilitate opportunities for exercise.

• Increased health benefits associated with increased physical activity.

• Residential properties that are adjacent to or in proximity to recreational amenities and pathways are• Residential properties that are adjacent to or in proximity to recreational amenities and pathways are desirable to home buyers.

• Pathways offer a low cost physical activity facility.

• Kiwanis Park is a beautiful park where both active and passive activities can be enjoyed• Kiwanis Park is a beautiful park where both active and passive activities can be enjoyed.

• Areas of negative social behaviour (vandalism, vagrancy) can be improved with the implementation of pathway development.


Existing Conditions – Land Use

• Schedule A of the City of London Official Plan identifies land use designations adjacent

• Schedule B1 identifies the natural heritage features of the area. This includes areas of

• Schedule B2 indentifies natural resources and hazards for the area and identifies the study

to the study area as low & medium density residential, light & general industrial and open space.

unevaluated vegetation patches and significant corridors along the Pottersburg Creek.

area as being within the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority regulation limit and within the regulatory floodline.

Study Area


Existing Conditions – Natural Environment

• Seven Ecological Community Series exist within the study area including Cultural Meadow, Meadow Marsh, Tallgrass Prairie Cultural Thicket Cultural Woodland

• Big Bluestem is found predominantly along the south side of the CNR tracks.

S h f h C k l b C k

Vegetation

Tallgrass Prairie, Cultural Thicket, Cultural Woodland, Deciduous Forest, and Swamp Forest.

• The most significant vegetation community found is a tallgrass prairie remnant of big bluestem with butterfly

• South of the CNR tracks along Pottersburg Creek, a deciduous forest comprised of Manitoba maple/willow/poplar occurs within the floodplain. At higher elevation, sugar maple/oak forest communities itallgrass prairie remnant of big bluestem with butterfly

weed. Big Bluestem is a rare species typical of prairie habitats.

• There is an abundance of wild parsnip and great

exist.

• Wetland communities are north of Pottersburg Creek and consist of meadow marsh with grasses and a

i f h b i h d j• There is an abundance of wild parsnip and great ragweed along Pottersburg Creek floodplain area.

variety of herbaceous species, such as spotted joe‐pyeweed, swamp thicket and deciduous swamp.

Butterfly Weed Great Lobelia Poplar Trees Prairie Grass





• Pottersburg Creek has been historically realigned and is currently comprised mainly of flat, gentle runs within

Aquatic

the study area.

• In‐stream cover is provided by abundant cobbles throughout the channel but there is little diversity in

Pottersburg Creek north of the CNR corridor.

cover types with a marked lack of woody debris, and aquatic vegetation. However the meadow, shrubs and scattered trees provide a moderate amount of shading.

• Gabions are located along the bank to reduce erosion along the creek .

• The greatest aquatic habitat diversity within the creek Pottersburg Creek north of the CNR corridor.

exists upstream and downstream of the CNR crossing.

• AECOM is currently updating the Pottersburg Creek Subwatershed Study.

Gabions along the creek south of the existing culvert.



• A total of 25 species of birds were identified within the study area. • Key species that were documented include:

Birds & Insects

E t W d P ( tl d i t d i f i l• Eastern Wood‐Pewee (currently designated as a species of special concern by COSEWIC);

• Species that were observed that are identified in the Partners in Flight Conservation Plan include: Baltimore Oriole, Eastern Wood‐Pewee, N th Fli k d R b t d G b k d

Eastern Wood Pewee

• A variety of insects were observed and include Eastern Forked Tail (damselfly),

Northern Flicker and Rose‐breasted Grosbeak; and• Species that were observed that are identified as Area Sensitive Species include: White‐breasted Nuthatch.

y ( y),Green Darner (dragonfly), Ebony Jewelwing (dragonfly), Morning Cloak (butterfly) and Cabbage White (butterfly).

Wildlife and ReptilesPaper Wasp

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• The following mammals were observed directly or through incidental observations: White‐tailed Deer, Raccoon, Squirrel, Skunk, Ground Hog, Coyote, Cottontail, Virginia Opossum, Chipmunk and Muskrat.

• Reptile surveys have not been completed however it is anticipated the following species would be located in the study area: Garter Snake, American Toad, Leopard Toad and Chorus Frog. Green Darner


Issues Summary


Alternative Solutions Screening/Evaluation Process

The following illustrates the process that has been followed for this project to determine a ‘short list’ of crossing locations and types and pathway alignment.

Step 1

Consider whether the Alternative Planning Solutions meet the project bj i

Step 2

Elaborate on the alternatives from Step 1 to determine possible C i T /L ti O ti

Step 3

Crossing Type/Locations Options carried forward are then evaluated i d t il d t f i t lobjectives:

• provide a safe and appropriate crossing of the CNR corridor• support recreational activities in

Crossing Type/Location Options. These Crossing Type/Location Options are pre‐screened based on a review of criteria that includes:

using a detailed set of environmental criteria for the following environmental components:

• social/cultural environment;the area;• provide increased commuter opportunities; and • makes the area more attractive to residents

• technical feasibility;• distance to existing pathway terminus; and• potential to reduce trespassing and provide a safe pedestrian link.

• natural environment;• technical environment; and• economic environment.

Status (Next Steps): To beresidents.

Status: Completed

provide a safe pedestrian link.

Crossing Type/Location Options that meet the criteria are then carried forward for detailed evaluation.

Status (Next Steps): To be completed following comments received from Agencies, Aboriginal Communities, Stakeholders and the Public. Results will presented at the next PIC

Status: Completed (subject to comments received)

the next PIC.


Alternative Planning Solutions – Step 1

CONSTRUCT A NEW CROSSINGThis option would consider various rail crossing locations, structures (tunnel/bridge) and pathway

IMPROVE EXISTING CROSSING AT HALE STREET & TRAFALGAR STREETThe existing infrastructure at Hale

DO NOTHINGUnder this alternative, no measures would be taken to connect the north and south sections of the pathway

alignments..

This alternative addresses the identified issues (connection between the north and south portion of Kiwanis

/

gStreet and Trafalgar Street would be used as the crossing location of the CNR line.

This alternative could become viable

within Kiwanis Park. The pathway would remain in its present condition.

This alternative does not provide a direct and exclusive link across the

Park, improves pedestrian/cyclist connectivity, improves safety and reduces trespassing on CNR lands) (Options B‐H).

by linking the pathway on the north side by way of Stevenson Avenue or through the hydro corridor. The south alignment may not link with the existing terminus but would proceed

CNR corridor for pedestrians and cyclists and it does not address the current issue of trespassing across CNR lands.

Preferred Alternativeto the Thames River via an alternative alignment (Option A).

Preferred Alternative

.

Note: At grade crossings are not acceptable to CNR therefore they have not been considered as part of this project.


Note: At grade crossings are not acceptable to CNR therefore they have not been considered as part of this project.

Location of CNR Crossing & Possible Pathway Linkages


Option A: Hale & Trafalgar Intersection

On Street Crossing:

• The existing sidewalk would be used to convey pedestrians across the east side of the existing roundabout.

Carried Forward for Further Evaluation

• Alternatively, the pathway could be cantilevered to the existing roundabout structure.• An on‐street bike route would be implemented to convey cyclist across the roundabout.

Pathway:

• Proposed pathway could connect on the north side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park by way of the existing sidewalk on T f l St t th h li k t St ATrafalgar Street or through a link to Stevenson Avenue.• Proposed pathway could connect on the south side of the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park by way of the Fairmont Trail.• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 2200m.• Alternatively, the south alignment of the pathway may not link with the existing terminus. A new pathway could proceed to the Thames River via an alternative alignment.


Option B: East of Hale/Trafalgar Intersection

Bridge:

• Overall structure length of ±70m (property line to property line).• Two span structure consisting of concrete deck on concrete or

Not Carried Forward for Further Evaluation

steel girders.• Structure provides a 7.01m vertical clearance over the tracks.• Horizontal clearance crossing 2 CNR main lines and one spur line (21m), an access road (4m) and spur line (11m) required.• Combination of stairs and ramp provided at each end to p paccommodate barrier free access. Various options are available for ramp layout / configuration. • North approach would be within the CNR corridor.• South approach would be along the Fairmont Trail corridor south of the CNR tracksof the CNR tracks.

Tunnel:

• Overall structure length of ±70m (property line to property line).


Overall structure length of ±70m (property line to property line).• Buried structure to provide internal clearance 6.0m wide x 4.5mhigh.• Structural options include concrete box or circular steel plate.• Ramps provided at each end to accommodate barrier free access Various options are available for ramp layout /

Pathway:

• Proposed pathway could connect on the north side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park by way of access on CNR lands or along the hydro corridor to McLarenwood Terrance.access. Various options are available for ramp layout /

configuration.• North approach would be within the CNR corridor.• South approach would be along the Fairmont Trail corridor.

the hydro corridor to McLarenwood Terrance.• Proposed pathway could also connect via a link along Stevenson Avenue.• Proposed pathway could connect on the south side of the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park by way of the Fairmont Trail.A i t l th f th d th 1900


• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 1900m.

Option C: Hydro Corridor

Bridge:

• Overall structure length of ±90m (property line to property line).• Two span structure consisting of concrete deck on concrete or


steel girders.• Structure provides a 7.01m vertical clearance over the tracks.• Horizontal clearance crossing 2 CNR main lines (15m) and 2 spur lines (22m) required.• Combination of stairs and ramp provided at each end to p paccommodate barrier free access. Various options are available for ramp layout / configuration. • North approach would be within the CNR corridor.• South approach would be within the hydro corridor or Fairmont Trail corridor south of the CNR tracksTrail corridor south of the CNR tracks.

Tunnel:

O ll t t l th f ±100 ( t li t t li )


• Overall structure length of ±100m (property line to property line).• Buried structure to provide internal clearance 6.0m wide x 4.5mhigh.• Structural options include concrete box or circular steel plate.• Ramps provided at each end to accommodate barrier free

Pathway:

• Proposed pathway could connect on the north side to the existing h i Ki i P k b f CNR l d laccess. Various options are available for ramp layout /

configuration.• North approach would be within the CNR corridor.• South approach would be within the hydro corridor or Fairmont Trail corridor.

pathway in Kiwanis Park by way of access on CNR lands or along the hydro corridor to McLarenwood Terrace.• Proposed pathway could connect on the south side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park by way of the Fairmont Trail.• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 1500m.


Trail corridor.

Option D: West Limit of Kiwanis Park

Bridge:

• Overall structure length of ±118m (property line to property line).• Three span structure consisting of concrete deck on concrete or


steel girders.• Structure provides a 7.01m vertical clearance over the tracks.• Horizontal clearance crossing 2 CNR main lines (15m) required.• Constructed with concrete or steel girders.• Combination of stairs and ramp provided at each end toCombination of stairs and ramp provided at each end to accommodate barrier free access. Various options are available for ramp layout / configuration. • North approach would be within Kiwanis Park.• South approach would be within the Fairmont Trail corridor south of the CNR tracksof the CNR tracks.

Tunnel:




Pathway:

• Proposed pathway could connect on the north side to the existing h i Ki i P kaccess. Various options are available for ramp layout /

configuration.• North approach would be within Kiwanis Park.• South approach would be within the Fairmont Trail corridor.

pathway in Kiwanis Park.• Proposed pathway could connect on the south side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park by way of the Fairmont Trail corridor.• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 800m.


Option E: Mid Park

Bridge:

• Overall structure length of ±118m (property line to property line).• Three span structure consisting of concrete deck on concrete or


Three span structure consisting of concrete deck on concrete or steel girders.• Structure provides a 7.01m vertical clearance over the tracks.• Horizontal clearance crossing 2 CNR main lines (15m) required.• Constructed with concrete or steel girders.• Combination of stairs and ramp pro ided at each end to• Combination of stairs and ramp provided at each end to accommodate barrier free access. Various options are available for ramp layout / configuration. • North approach would be within Kiwanis Park.• South approach would be within the Fairmont Trail corridor south of the CNR tracks.

Tunnel:




Pathway:

• Proposed pathway could connect on the north side to the existing h i Ki i P kaccess. Various options are available for ramp layout /

configuration.• North approach would be within Kiwanis Park.• South approach would be within the Fairmont Trail corridor.

pathway in Kiwanis Park.• Proposed pathway could connect on the south side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park by way of the Fairmont Trail corridor.• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 500m.


Option F: West of Existing Culvert

Tunnel:

• Overall structure length of ±45m (property line to property line).B i d id i l l 6 0 id 4 5


• Buried structure to provide internal clearance 6.0m wide x 4.5mhigh.• Structural options include concrete box or circular steel plate.• Ramps provided at each end to accommodate barrier free access. Various options are available for ramp layout / configuration.• North approach would be within Kiwanis Park.• South approach would be within CNR lands.

Pathway:

• Proposed pathway could connect on the north side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park.• Proposed pathway could connect on the south side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park across CNR lands.• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 450m.


Option G: Existing Culvert

Tunnel:

• Requires use of existing culvert.A ddi i l l ld b d i hi h


• An additional concrete culvert would be constructed within the existing culvert to accommodate new pathway section.• New culvert would require adequate clearance above the creek surface to accommodate sewer conveyance and potential flooding.• Potential culvert length 40.0 m.

Pathway:

• Pathway could connect on the north side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park.• Pathway could connect on the south side to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park across CNR lands.• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 500m• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 500m.


Option H: East of Existing Culvert

Tunnel:

• Overall structure length of ±45m (property line to property line).• Buried structure to provide internal clearance 6 0m wide x 4 5m


Buried structure to provide internal clearance 6.0m wide x 4.5mhigh.• Structural options include concrete box or circular steel plate.• Ramps provided at each end to accommodate barrier free access. Various options are available for ramp layout /

fi ticonfiguration.• North approach would be within private property.• South approach would be within CNR lands.

Pathway:

• Potential crossings of Pottersburg Creek may be considered to connect to existing pathways.• Pathway could connect on the north to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park. Alternatively, several possible alignment opportunities exist to connect the pathway with city streets.• Pathway could connect on the south to the existing pathway in Kiwanis Park across CNR lands.Kiwanis Park across CNR lands.• Approximate length of the proposed pathway: 600m ‐ 1100m


Alternatives To Be Carried Forward For Further Evaluation – Step 2The following alternatives have been considered and will be carried forward for further evaluation for the following reasons:

Option Reasons for Carrying Forward

Option A: Hale and Trafalgar Intersection

• The north/south approach and pathway alignments would be located within existing infrastructure.• This alternative does not address the project need however t could become viable if other alternatives are considered technically unfeasible or cost prohibitive.

The following alternatives have been considered and will be carried forward for further evaluation for the following reasons:


Intersection

Option D: West of Kiwanis ParkBridge

• The north approach and pathway alignment would be located within the existing Kiwanis Park.• Due to the crossing location, this alignment has a higher probability of addressing the trespassing issues across CNR lands and improve the safety of the users.• The length of this crossing could be reduced if land acquisition/easement can be negotiated with CNR.• Potential to enhance the existing natural features.• Potential to provide an aesthetic park experience to users.

Option E: Mid Park Bridge

• The north approach and pathway alignment would be located within the existing Kiwanis Park.• The pathway location is shorter than other options and is a direct alignment with existing pathway terminus points.• Due to location, this crossing and alignment have a higher probability of addressing the trespassing issues across CNR lands and improve the safety of the users.• The length of this crossing can be reduced if land acquisition/easement could be negotiated with CNR.• Potential to enhance the existing natural features.• Potential to provide an aesthetic park experience to users.Potential to provide an aesthetic park experience to users.• Although the north pathway alignment would be located within a low lying area, a wooden boardwalk could be constructed along a portion of the pathway.

Option F: West of Existing CulvertTunnel

• The north approach and pathway alignment would be located within the existing Kiwanis Park.• Pathway alignment is shorter than other options and is a direct alignment with existing pathway terminus points.• Shorter crossing required.• Due to the crossing location, this alignment has a higher probability of addressing the trespassing issues across CNR lands and improve the safety of the users.Th l th f thi i b d d if l d i iti / t b ti t d ith CNR• The length of this crossing can be reduced if land acquisition/easement can be negotiated with CNR.

• Potential to enhance the existing natural features.• Potential to provide an aesthetic park experience to users.• North and south pathway alignments located within low lying areas. Wooden boardwalks may be required for sections of the pathway.• Possible crossings of Pottersburg Creek required to connect to existing pathway.

Option H: • The north approach and pathway alignment would be located immediately adjacent to and within Kiwanis Park.pEast of Existing CulvertTunnel

• A possible pathway alignment is shorter than other options and is a direct alignment with existing pathway terminus points.• Short crossing length required.• Due to location, this crossing and alignment have a higher probability of addressing the trespassing issues across CNR lands.• Although the north pathway alignment would be located within a low lying area, a wooden boardwalk could be constructed along a portion of the pathway.• Potential to construct two crossings of Pottersburg Creek to connect to existing pathway and improve pathway circulation.• Potential to enhance the existing natural features.


Alternative Not Carried Forward For Further Evaluation – Step 2Th f ll i l i h b id d b ill b i d f d f f h l i f h f ll i

Option Reasons for Not Carrying Forward

The following alternatives have been considered but will not be carried forward for further evaluation for the following reasons:


Option B: East of Hale/TrafalgarBridge & Tunnel

• This option requires a long diversion from the existing pathway.• Medium crossing length required.• Due to the location of the crossing (further to the east of the existing pathway) this crossing and alignment have a lower probability of addressing the trespassing issues across CNR lands . • Land acquisition/easement would be required from CNR and hydro utility company to accommodate approach and possible pathway alignment on north side.

Option C: Hydro CorridorBridge & Tunnel

• This option requires a long diversion from the existing pathway therefore this crossing and alignment have a lower probability of addressing the trespassing issues across CNR lands . •Land acquisition/easement would be required from CNR and hydro utility company to accommodate approach and a portion of the pathway alignment.•Due to existing ground elevations construction of a tunnel would be more difficult and expensive.• Adequate hydro line clearance is required for bridge construction, therefore construction maybe more difficult.

Option D: West Limit of Kiwanis ParkTunnel

•Although this crossing is centrally located, it would required a long tunnel , therefore perception of public safety is reduced (one way in‐one way out). •Due to existing ground elevations construction of the tunnel would be more difficult and expensive.

Option E •Although the location of this crossing is centrally located it would required a long tunnel therefore perception of public safety is reduced (one way in oneOption E: Mid ParkTunnel

•Although the location of this crossing is centrally located, it would required a long tunnel , therefore perception of public safety is reduced (one way in‐one way out). •Due to existing ground elevations construction of the tunnel would be more difficult and expensive.

Option G: Existing Culvert

•As part of the Pottersburg Creek Subwatershed study no improvements are required to the existing culvert.•In order to provide serviceability to pedestrian users , a platform would be required within the existing culvert. This would result in some loss of conveyanceExisting Culvert In order to provide serviceability to pedestrian users , a platform would be required within the existing culvert. This would result in some loss of conveyance and possibly hydraulic capacity.• Ecological impacts and regulatory impacts associated with in‐water works.


Evaluation Criteria/Methodology – Step 3

The following criteria will be used to evaluate the alternatives carried forward as part of the pre‐screening process. The evaluation process is based on a qualitative assessment to consider the suitability of each solution and identify significant advantages and disadvantages.

Social/Cultural Criteria• Public Health & Safety

• Cultural Heritage Resources• Aesthetics

Technical Criteria• Design

• Construction• Operation & MaintenanceAesthetics

•Functionality• Property Impacts• Aboriginal Issues

p• Approval & Regulatory Requirements

Recommended Preferred Solution

Natural Environment Criteria Economic & Financial Criteria• Terrestrial Wildlife & Vegetation

• Aquatic Life & Vegetation• Initial capital Costs

• Operating & Maintenance Costs


Comments

Comments received from members of the public /Stakeholders/Aboriginal Communities prior to PIC#1 include the following:

• A concern was raised regarding safety issues and the increased risk of potential break‐ins, resulting from an access being provided behind existing residents.

• Members of the public expressed support for Option C & Option H.p p pp p p• Members of the public expressed support for a tunnel below the tracks.• A member of the public recommended an overpass at Hale/Trafalgar if tunneling is not feasible.• Members of the public support implementation of a crossing to connect the north and south pathways across the CNR lands. • A concern was raised regarding dirt bikes currently being driven behind residential properties along the existing pathway.• Requests were made to include natural features and heritage sites into the design.• A member of the public noted that the CNR embankment was constructed over a wooden trestle that may be encountered if tunneling is considered as a result the site may possess design challenges.

• Members of the public requested that impacts to adjacent residential properties be factored into the evaluation process.• If Options A or B are considered a member of the public suggested lights at Trafalgar/Stevenson Ave. be implemented.• A member of the public asked about the requirements for easements or land acquisition on private property if required.• A member of the public requested the City consider a connection path on both sides Pottersburg Creek.• A member of the public requested that improved drainage be implemented to address flooding of the existing path and to avoid flooding of the new path.

• Support for a path and crossing further to the west of the study area was expressed since it may provide improved security.• Support for a barrier free pathway connection was expressed.

Comments from Agencies prior to PIC#1 include the following:

• Upper Thames River Conservation Authority regulates interference with wetlands and alterations to shorelines and watercourses. The preferred alternative should have regard for approval requirements.Th Cit h ld id t ti l i t t i ti t ti•The City should consider potential impacts to existing vegetation.

• Compliance with Upper Thames River Conservation Authority Environmental Planning Policies is required.•The study should have regard for creek channel morphology.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO FILL OUT AND SUBMIT A COMMENT SHEET TO THE CITY OR AECOM PRIOR TO NOVEMBER 29, 2013.


PLEASE REMEMBER TO FILL OUT AND SUBMIT A COMMENT SHEET TO THE CITY OR AECOM PRIOR TO NOVEMBER 29, 2013.

Next Steps

• Consider input from public and agency consultation to confirm or refine the alternative solutions.

• Evaluate alternative solutions carried forward for further evaluation.Fall 2013

• PIC #2 to present Recommended Alternative to the public.• Prepare Screening Report• Present recommendations to Civic Works Committee & Council (opportunity for public participation at Civic Works Committee).

•Issue a Notice of Completion and File the Screening Report for the mandatory 30 day review period.

• Address comments raised during the 30 day review period.Winter 2013/

• Anyone with outstanding concerns, which cannot be addressed, may, within 30 calendar days of the Notice of Completion, request the Minister of Environment to issue an order to comply with Part II of the EA Act. This is known as a ‘Part II Order’, bumping up the status of the project.

Spring 2014

• If no Part II Order requests are received, then the City may proceed with detailed design & implementation.

Summer/Fall • Detailed Design2015

g• Tender

2016 • Construction


Documents

City of London, Ontario, Canada - Pedestrian Pathway Connection … · 2013-11-22 · Summer 2013 EA Phase1 Fall 2013 Agency/Stakeholder Consultation 2013 ... any liability whatsoever,