REVITALIZING THE NORTH END NEIGHBOURHOOD A Community ...€¦ · The revitalization of the North End Neighbourhood is an initiative of the Brandon and Area Planning District, in partnership

REVITALIZING THE NORTH END NEIGHBOURHOOD

A Community Revitalization Strategy

Prepared by:

Hilderman Thomas Frank CramLandscape Architecture • Planning

Winnipeg • Brandon

August 3 2000

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction

Introduction............................................................................................................. 2The Planning Process............................................................................................... 2

2.0 The North End Neighbourhood

Location................................................................................................................... 3History..................................................................................................................... 3Community Character............................................................................................. 6People...................................................................................................................... 6Housing.................................................................................................................... 6Land Use and Zoning.............................................................................................. 9Municipal Services................................................................................................... 9Community Facilities............................................................................................. 12

3.0 A Strategy to Revitalize the North End Neighbourhood

Medium Range Revitalization Strategy................................................................. 14Long Range Revitalization Strategy ...................................................................... 19

4.0 Implementation of Strategy

First Steps.............................................................................................................. 19Costs of Implementation....................................................................................... 21

List of Maps and Tables.................................................................................... 22

Appendix A: Survey Results

Appendix B: Community Profile

Revitalizing the North End Neighbourhood Page 2

Revitalizing the North End Neighbourhood

1.0 Introduction

The revitalization of the North End Neighbourhood is an initiative of the Brandonand Area Planning District, in partnership with the City of Brandon. The study wascompleted by Hilderman Thomas Frank Cram Landscape Architecture • Planning,of Winnipeg and Brandon, MB.

As part of the preparation of a new zoning by-law for the City of Brandon, thePlanning District and City identified this neighbourhood as one in which the presentpattern of industrial zoning and land use required a re-examination. At the outset,the Planning District and City articulated a preliminary vision of thisneighbourhood as a place for mixed residential development, in the spirit of thecurrent Development Plan, which encourages the infilling of existing areas of thecity. This early vision included single and multiple family dwellings, as well ascommercial development, within a unique context of greenspace. The neighbourhoodwould be desirable for younger families, as well as those whose lifestyle would beenhanced by the unique setting and proximity to both the Riverbank anddowntown.

As the project unfolded, it became clear that an integral component of this studyshould be the consideration of the existing neighbourhood, and initiatives that couldbe undertaken to revitalize this area. This revitalization is seen by the residents asimportant in maintaining and enhancing the quality of life for their own good, andfor providing an incentive for further development, appropriate to the existingcontext.

The Planning Process

Phase I: Background Research included the gathering of information of relevance tothis revitalization study. Information was gathered on previous studies, existingconditions in the neighbourhood, the local housing market, and engineering concerns.The findings of this phase are summarized in Section 2: The North EndNeighbourhood.

As part of this initial phase, a public meeting was held with residents of theneighbourhood to identify key issues, ideas and concerns of those living and doingbusiness in the neighbourhood. At this meeting, a survey was conducted (resultslocated in Appendix A), which subsequently became the basis for the developmentof a community profile (Appendix B).

Phase II: Development of Alternative Concepts involved the identification ofopportunities for and constraints to revitalization of the North End neighbourhood.From this, preliminary concepts were generated, and shared with the residents. Twoconcepts were presented, which illustrated two different timeframes: one in whichthe existing industry would remain and need to be appropriately addressed, andanother, looking to the future, in which industry would eventually be relocated,offering new potentials for the development of housing and recreational and leisureamenities.


Phase III: Prepare Final Concept Plans for Review involved the carefulconsideration of all comments gathered from the review of the preliminaryconceptual plans, in order to create strategies for revitalization which coverimmediate, medium and long range time frames. Upon completion of the study,these strategies will be presented to City Council, with residents, representatives ofbusiness and industry, and the public at large invited to attend.

Phase IV: Implementation of the revitalization strategy involves working withindividuals and groups in the development of initiatives, in coordination with Citydepartments, community organizations and various government agencies. Theinitiatives described in Tables 1 and 2 are intended to be flexible, and should besubject to review and change as conditions change within the neighbourhood andlarger city.

2.0 The North End Neighbourhood

Location

The north end neighbourhood is centrally located in Brandon, directly north ofdowntown. The neighbourhood (map 1) is bounded by the Canadian Pacificmainline to the south, the Assiniboine River to the north and east, and 18th street tothe west. The neighbourhood is within easy walking distance of both downtownand the riverbank, and all of the amenities that make up the Assiniboine RiverCorridor.

History

The area that is now the North End was one of the first areas of settlement inBrandon. As early as the 1800’s, settlers occupied this area, living in tents.Subsequent settlement would largely be in the form of immigrants from EasternEurope, employed by the nearby CPR. Industry would arrive shortly thereafter; in1881, the Fisher Company Flour Mill would open near the site of the present weir.

The Assiniboine River has played an important role in the early history of the NorthEnd Neighbourhood. Because of its low lying location within the floodplain of theriver (map 2), the area was subject to several severe floods until the construction ofa dike in 1954. Since that time, the dike has protected the neighbourhood fromfloods, including the 1976 flood, the worst in more than 50 years (1). In spite of theprotection afforded by the dike, flooding is still perceived as being a concern withinthe neighbourhood.

8th

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Ukranian OrthodoxChurch of the

Holy Ghost

MAP 1:EXISTING

NEIGHBOURHOOD

To North Hill,T.C.H.

To 26th street, Recreation

Centre

To Downtown

TRANSIT ROUTES

Riverbank trail

PedestrianBridge

TRANSIT STOPS-NO BENCH / SHELTER

TRANSIT STOPS- WITHBENCH AND/OR SHELTER

RIVERBANK MULTI-USE TRAIL- PAVED

BotanicalGarden

North EndCommunity

Centre

Ducks Unlimited/Riverbank Discovery Centre

Westbran Park

DinsdalePark

WestbranStadium

Ukranian ReadingAssociation Hall

St. Joseph'sChurch

St. Mary'sChurch

Sokol Hall& Club

SnowmobileStaging

Area

MULTI- FAMILY HOUSING

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

COMMUNITY FACILITIES

OPEN SPACES-DEVELOPED & UNDEVELOPED

North EndPlayground

Ukranian National Home

McKenzieSeeds

CO-OPFeeds

Burns(vacant)

HeartlandLivestock

MorningstarMetals

SINGLE AND TWO FAMILY HOMES

L E G E N D

Eleanor KiddPark

LANDS IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION

Ambush Indoor

Paintball

PersnicketyRay's Autobody

Parking

ParkingParking

SokolManor

Parking

McMunn & YatesBuilding Centre

North AmericanLumber

Former Shellstation

Old DutchFoods

Sobey'sCash & Carry

Aunt Sarah'sRestaurant

ActionPower

Brandon RadiatorService

Joe's Car Wash& Auto Service

Giant Car& Truck Wash

Redwood Inn

ChampagneAuto Sales

StripMall

MemoriesChapel

RodewayInn

NorthsideMazda

PrecisionToyota

Trails West MotorInn/Restaurant,North 40 Saloon,Fayz4 Hair Salon

MacDougall DentalLab, Laundromat

WestmanPowerwash

Lift Station

StarPrinting

Wally'sTaxi

Strip Mall

OTHER TRAIL-UNPAVED

CITY CYCLING/WALKING PATH- PAVED

DIKE

Loading Dock

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REVITALIZATION STRATEGYFOR THE NORTH END

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360.0357.5 EXTENT OF FLOOD FRINGE

(BELOW +/- 360.5)

DEVELOPMENT CONTROLS INCLUDEFLOODPROOFING OF STRUCTURES,FLOOR LEVELS 0.6 M ABOVE DIKE LEVEL

LOCATION OF DYKE(+/- 360.0 M ABOVE SEA L:EVEL)

MAJOR TOPOGRAPHICINTERVALS(ELEVATIONS IN METRESABOVE SEA LEVEL)

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EXTENT OF FLOODWAY(BELOW +/- 360.0 M)

DEVELOPMENT LIMITED TOAGRICULTURE, OPEN SPACE,PARKS AND REC USES

AREAS SUBJECT TO PONDING

MAP 2:TOPOGRAPHIC

CHARACTER

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Partly in an attempt to address localized flooding in the neighbourhood, the SnyeCreek was filled with waste and refuse. From this buried waste comes methane gas,and as a result, a large area of the neighbourhood is subject to controls placed uponnew development by the City (map 3).

In 1994, the Assiniboine River Corridor Master Plan was prepared, which outlined along term strategy to regenerate the River and preserve its ecosystem (2). As part ofthis plan, initiatives were proposed for areas and neighbourhoods adjacent to theriver, including the North End neighbourhood. Within the Master Plan, the NorthEnd neighbourhood was identified as an area of potential revitalization; specificprojects included the upgrading of Parker Boulevard and 8th street as parkways, thetransformation of the Burns Plant into a multi-use recreational and cultural centre,as well as the many Riverbank trails that can be found along the Assiniboine today.

Community Character

The neighbourhood is made up of five distinct areas: an existing residentialneighbourhood characterized by low density, small one and two storey houses;highway oriented commercial along 18th street; industry along Parker Boulevard;areas along the Assiniboine River consisting of pathways, developed parks andundeveloped open spaces, and large undeveloped spaces which separate theresidential areas from the commercial and industrial areas. Many of theseundeveloped spaces are city-owned land (map 4).

In the existing residential area, homes sit on long narrow lots, many with largegardens. The streets have a strong pedestrian character: houses, many with frontporches, are set close to the street; many yards have tidy picket fences; and streetshave sidewalks and mature street trees.

Many residents have commented that their neighbourhood has a small town feel; itis quiet, safe, a good place to raise a family, with friendly neighbours. These andother feelings, ideas and concerns of residents were compiled through a survey, theresults of which are presented in Appendix A.

People

A large number of the people who make up the north end neighbourhood are ofeastern European descent. The population is generally getting older; however, atrend is emerging which is seeing younger families with school age children movinginto the neighbourhood. Many of these younger families are sons and daughtersreturning to the neighbourhood in which they grew up.

Housing

The North End neighbourhood is characterized by older one and two storey homes.There have in recent years been multiple family homes being built in infill situations.

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ZONE 3

Detection of methane: developmentto meet zone 2 requirements;No detection of methane: probes and ongoing monitoring required.

MAP 3:METHANE GAS

PROTECTION AREAS

ZONE 1:SYNE CREEK- LANDFILL

No development of buildings orpaved parking lots

ZONE 2

Development subject to engineeringreport. Test probes , wells and ongoingmonitoring required. Special design criteria for buildings

ZONE 4

Developmment at the discretion of the developer

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The average sale price for homes in the neighbourhood in 1999 was $51,636.00,compared to the city average of $88,630.00 (3). Homes in the neighbourhood alsotypically sell faster- 45 days compared to 60 in the rest of the city. There are a largenumber of homes in the neighbourhood that are rental properties, and residents areconcerned that these properties are not well maintained.

Presently in Brandon, most new housing takes the form of single family homes andfourplexes (4). This latter housing type is the preferred choice of developers wishingto construct affordable housing. High land costs have been seen as a deterrent tothose wishing to construct affordable single-family detached dwellings.

Land Use and Zoning

The current land use and zoning within the north end neighbourhood is illustrated inmaps 1 and 5, respectively. In the existing residential area, land is largely zonedtwo family residential (R2), with some light industrial (M1) and general commercial(C2). The area along 18th street is presently zoned Highway commercial (C3), andcontains low density commercial, which caters to the travelling public and largercity and regional markets. The industry along Parker Boulevard falls into the lightindustrial (M1) zone, as well as does land south of Parker Boulevard, presumablyto accommodate future industrial development. Other pockets of land in this openarea are zoned Floodplain, as are lands adjacent to the Assiniboine River.

Residents have indicated that for the most part the existing industries in the areahave been good neighbours. One notable exception is the Canadian Pacific Railway;residents have clearly stated concerns over the traffic generated within theneighbourhood, the only means of access to both the company’s shops east of 1stStreet, and a loading dock on Assiniboine Avenue. With regards to new industrialdevelopment, many residents are supportive of light or ‘clean’ industry, but areconcerned over the potential establishment of new medium and heavy industry inthe neighbourhood.

Municipal Services

Within the North End neighbourhood, some streets are still gravel, and of the pavedstreets, many are in need of repair. Similarly, not all streets have sidewalks, andwhere they do exist, they too often need repair.

With some localized exceptions, the north end neighbourhood is presently wellserved with water, sewer and gas services (map 6). These services also extend toareas which are presently undeveloped. Much of the area was upgraded in the1970’s through the Neighbourhood Improvement Program (NIP), and periodicupgrading is undertaken by the City. Recent evaluation by the Department ofEngineering and Operations indicates that the services have the capacity for furtherdevelopment of low density residential development, but only through specificevaluation can a more precise determination be made regarding higher densitydevelopment (5).

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R1

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Holy Ghost

MAP 6:EXISTING UNDERGROUND

SERVICES

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WATERMAINS

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CATCH BASINS

NATURAL GAS


Planned infrastructure upgrades in the North End neighbourhood include theconstruction of a new water feeder line along Assiniboine Avenue to the 5th Streetriver crossing, as well as the upgrading of the Hilton Avenue Lift Station (5).

While the dike has protected the neighbourhood from flooding, seepage through thedike does exist, contributing to some localized ponding. A recent studyrecommended the installation of a seepage cut-off at certain locations to preventseepage through the dike. However, long range plans for the dike only includerelocation of the dike at critical locations to ease the threat of bank erosion andinstability. One of these locations is at the foot of 14th Street (5).Present Department of Engineering and Operations regulations require all newdevelopment within the floodway fringe, which includes the North Endneighbourhood, to be sited 2 feet above the 100 year flood level (5).

The neighbourhood presently has transit service to downtown and North Hill, withconnections to the rest of city. The route follows Stickney avenue, the main east-west street through the neighbourhood, and residents have stated that they weregenerally satisfied with transit service.

Community Facilities

Parks and Recreation Facilities: There are a number of developed recreationfacilities within the neighbourhood, and many more are close by, with accessprovided by riverbank trails and the recently built pedestrian bridge. There are alsoa number of city owned, undeveloped spaces in the neighbourhood that arepresently used for some activity, and are important contributors to the open spacecharacter of the neighbourhood. There is also a former school yard that could beconsidered for limited recreational activities.

North End Community Centre: The building has a hall, kitchen andwashroom facilities; the grounds feature an outdoor hockey rink and abaseball diamond. Some concern has been raised by residents regarding thepoor management of the outdoor rink.

North End Tot Lot: The tot lot features a wading pool, swings, playstructures and a shelter. The wading pool is slated to be upgraded to aspray park in 1- 2 years by the Department of Community Parks andRecreation.

Riverbank Trails: Multi-use trails presently provide access across theAssiniboine River, via the pedestrian bridge, to the Riverbank DiscoveryCentre and Sportsplex. The trails west of Eleanor Kidd Park provide accessto Queen Elizabeth, Canada Games and Curran Park.

Eleanor Kidd Park: This park features both a maintained park area and abotanical garden (under construction). The park area features open spacesfor passive recreation, as well as a picnic shelter. The botanical garden willhave washrooms, and feature horticultural displays, a meeting plaza and aperformance stage.


Cultural Facilities: Facilities include the Ukrainian National Home, Sokol Hall andClub, and the Ukrainian Reading Hall. These facilities host a variety of functionsyear round.

Education Facilities: There are presently no schools in the neighbourhood.Presently, children are bussed to Kirkcaldy Heights School, and in the future,children will be bussed to a number of different schools.

Other Services: There are no child care services in the neighbourhood. Sokol Manorprovides facilities and programs for the seniors in the residence. Public and privatetransportation provides access for seniors, as well as disabled persons, to amenitieselsewhere in the city.

3.0 A Strategy to Revitalize the North End Neighbourhood

In order to recognize both the concerns of existing residents as well as the potentialfor further development within the North End neighbourhood, a strategy wasdeveloped with two distinct timeframes of implementation: a medium rangetimeframe, and a long-range timeframe.

Tables 1 and 2, below, highlight issues, goals, actions, and suggested initiatives.

Issues are those opportunities, concerns and realities that were identifiedthrough the interview of informants and research in the preparation of thecommunity profile.

Goals are the desired end results, addressing the issues through actions andsuggested initiatives.

Actions are the steps required to address the issues and meet the goals.

Suggested Initiative(s) are specific projects that can be undertaken toaddress the issues and meet the goals.

Actions and suggested initiatives can be carried out by a number of differentorganizations/interests: the City of Brandon (City), the Brandon and Area andPlanning District (BAPD), Riverbank Inc., private developers, as well as aCommunity Revitalization Committee (CRC). This Community RevitalizationCommittee is perhaps the most important and pressing initiative suggested as partof this strategy. Forming a committee in the immediate future builds upon theinterest generated by this study, and is an important first step to instigate furtheractions and initiatives.

This committee would be made up of citizens, selected from the neighbourhood andrepresenting different groups: i.e., seniors, representatives of churches/halls,representatives of business/industry, and typical young families. Theserepresentatives would maintain an understanding of the goals, follow through withall aspects of work to be completed over a long timeframe, and be able to adjustprojects as required.


The committee would be overseen by a Coordinator (can be a City employee orother paid individual), who would assist the Committee through initiating andmanaging projects and initiatives, and through providing administrative support.

Medium Range Revitalization Strategy

A number of initiatives can be undertaken immediately or within an identifiabletimeframe. Table 1 lists these initiatives, and Map 7 illustrates how these initiativesmay be realized within the neighbourhood.

Table 1: Medium Range Strategy to Revitalize the North End Neighbourhood

Community Character

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Neighbourhood suffersFrom negative perception

Raise profile, improveperceptionof neighbourhood

CRC to identify specificperceptions; considerpossible means to improveperception

1. Signage andstreetscaping program:banners, murals,lighting2. Infill tree plantingwhere required

Residents concerned aboutthe value of furtherinvestment in their homes

Maximize investment inhomes by owners

CRC to identify barriers toneighbourhood stability;CRC to work with City andagencies to determine longterm investment inneighbourhood

Seek out and apply forgrants and other funding forhome improvement

Run-down and poorlymaintained homes and yards(weeds, derelict vehicles)-often rental properties

High standard of residentialhome/yard maintenance

CRC to clean-up homes andproperties, work withproperty owners; CRC, Cityand BAPD to better useexisting property standardsby-law, derelict vehicle by-law

Ongoing neighbourhoodclean-up program;one-day neighbourhoodclean-up event withcommunity barbeque

Noise, dust, generated bytrucks, industry, rail

Mitigation of noise and dust CRC and City to identifyappropriate locations,design of buffers tomitigate noise, dust

Construction of landscapedbuffers

Community and Recreation Facilities

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Extension of walkwaynetwork through theneighbourhood

Extended walkways,improved access

CRC to work with Riverbankand Department ofCommunity Parks andRecreation to ensureappropriate planning ofwalkways within therespective jurisdictions.

Trail construction andupgrading

Upgrading of weir area Improved weir site; greateraccessibility

CRC and Riverbank toidentify improvementsneeded to enhanceenvironmental quality,accessibility

Weir area redesign andconstruction

CRC - Community Revitalization Committee; BAPD - Brandon and Area Planning District


Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Further riverbankdevelopment

Further development whichis sensitive to theneighbourhood

CRC and Riverbank toidentify projects appropriateto the neighbourhood

Riverbank park and openspaces

Management of communityrecreation facilities

Good management sofacilities are readilyaccessible and usable

CRC and Department ofCommunity Parks andRecreation to identifydeficiencies

Community Parks andRecreation and communitygroup work together tomaintain facilities(Partner-a-park)

More community recreationfacilities needed

Full range of recreationfacilities available toresidents

CRC and Department ofCommunity Parks andRecreation to identifyneeded facilities

1. Upgraderecreational amenitiesto the North EndCommunity Centre2. Relocate Tot Lot,add spray park3. Partner-a-park

Maintenance of parks andundeveloped spaces

High standard ofmaintenance, appropriate tothe use of the park/openspace

CRC and Department ofCommunity Parks andRecreation to identify bestuse of parks/open spaces,and appropriatemaintenance regime(s)

Partner-a-park

Bicycle use in neighbourhood Greater bicycle use CRC and cyclists to identifybest routes, other actionsto encourage use

1. Create and sign bicycleroutes in the neighbourhood2. Bicycle use programming(i.e., bicycle route map)

Potential of Burns Plant site Redeveloped site, inkeeping with Riverbankgoals and sensitive to theneighbourhood

CRC, City and Riverbank toguide development on thissite

1. Demolish BurnsPlant2. EnvironmentalImpact Assessment forclean-up of site3. Feasibility studyfor redevelopment ofBurns Plant Site4. Develop parking onsite for Riverbank uses

Community Services

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Accessibility of school inneighbourhood

School in neighbourhood, orclose by

City to work withdevelopers to planresidential developmentthat supports a school;CRC and School Division toensure bussing to nearbyschools only

New bussing policy byBrandon School Division

Lack of seniors amenitiesand services

Greater amenities andservices for seniors

CRC and senior’s groups toidentify needed amenities,services; assesseffectiveness of seniorstransportation

Seniors’ housingdevelopments



Municipal Services and Infrastructure

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Streets and sidewalks inneed of repair

Good streets andsidewalks, replaced intimely fashion

CRC and Department ofEngineering and Operationsto identify areas in need ofimprovement

Street, curb and sidewalkrepair

8th Street bridge a barrier todowntown access

Increase pedestrian use ofbridge

City to identify deficiencies,possible remedies (i.e.,installation of banners,lighting, pedestrianhandrail)

Bridge improvements

Traffic generated by accessto CPR yards

Traffic appropriate forresidential neighbourhood

CRC, City and CPR toidentify limits to trucktraffic (speed, route)

1. New procedures byCPR2. Relocate loadingdock to moreappropriate location

Bus service Continuing high use andsatisfaction with busservice

CRC and City Transit toidentify deficiencies inservice and accessibility;BAPD to work withdevelopers to ensure thatnew development supportstransit use

Upgrades to bus stopwaiting areas

Ability of dike to protectneighbourhood from flooding

Dike protectsneighbourhood

City to undertake upgradesto dike

Dike upgrades

Poor drainage and localizedflooding behind dike

Fill in Snye Creek, creatingproblems with methane gas

Eliminate problems createdby localized flooding

City to identify areas offlooding, alternative meansto handle stormwater flow

1. Open up, removefill from Snye Creekbed to handle seasonalrunoff2. Develop integratedopen space network ofstormwater retentionponds as an amenitywithin greenspaceareas.

Safety and Security

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Vandalism and crime persistin neighbourhood

Increased sense ofsecurity, lowering of crimein neighbourhood

CRC, Brandon PoliceService, to examine waysto increase security anddeter crime

1. NeighbourhoodWatch Program2. Community policing



Future Residential Development

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Future residentialdevelopment

Affordable residential ,appropriate to existingcontext

CRC, City, and developersto create new housingappropriate to existingcontext; City to initiatediscussions withdevelopers; sell land at lowcost, develop otherinitiatives as an incentiveto developers

1. Infill existingresidential areas withappropriate housing2. Provide affordablehousing options3. Develop new singleand two-family housingwhere appropriate4. Develop moderatedensity multi-familyhousing whereappropriate

Lack of seniors housingneighbourhood

More seniors housing inneighbourhood

CRC, senior’s groups anddevelopers to identify bestlocations, type of housing

Seniors housingdevelopments

Future Commercial Development

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Lack of neighbourhoodoriented commercial

Greater neighbourhoodcommercial development

CRC, BAPD, City anddevelopers to identify bestlocations, types ofdevelopment

Develop commercial as partof mixed-use (withresidential) at appropriatelocations

Poor access to downtownareas for shopping

Explore alternative accesspoints

1. Improvements topedestrian bridge

Existing commercial area Increased economic vitalityof existing commercial area

City, BAPD and existingbusiness owners to identifyareas of deficiency,possible improvements

2. New commercialdevelopment- infill andnew.3. Streetscaping andstrorefront program toraise image of area

Future Industrial Development

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)Possible development of newlight industry

Industrial development thatis sensitive to the existingneighbourhood

CRC, City, BAPD andindustry to identify siteplanning controls,opportunities for theintegration of communityamenities

Develop communityamenities as part of newindustry (i.e., possibleMcKenzie Seedsexpansion)


Stickney Avenue

A s s i

n i

b o i

n e

R i

v e r

LIFT STATION

LIFT STATION

f o r m e r

S n y eC

r e e k

f o r m e r S n y e C r e e k

CO-OP feeds

Giant Car& Truck Wash

RIVERBANK MULTI-USE TRAIL-PAVED

EXISTING MULTI- FAMILYHOUSING

EXISTING INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

OPEN SPACES- DEVELOPEDAND UNDEVELOPED

LANDS TO REMAIN INAGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION

PROPOSED SERVICE ACCESSROUTE FOR CPR VEHICLES

EXISTING COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

EXISTING COMMUNITY FACILITIES

EXISTING SINGLE AND TWOFAMILY HOMES

Lands in agriculturalproduction

PROPOSED INFILL HOUSING

PROPOSED MULTI- FAMILYHOUSING

PROPOSED MULTI- FAMILYHOUSING WITH GROUND FLOOR COMMERCIAL

PROPOSED LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

EXISTING DIKE

0 50 100 250 500 feet


NEIGHBOURHOOD

L E G E N D

EXISTING

PROPOSED

CITY CYCLING/WALKING PATH-PAVED

EXISTING

PROPOSED

BOTANICALGARDEN

DUCKS UNLIMITED/RIVERBANK DISCOVERY CENTRE

WESTBRAN PARK

DINSDALEPARK

WESTBRANSTADIUM

UKRANIAN READING

ASSOC. HALLST. JOSEPH'S

CHURCH

ST. MARY'SCHURCH

SOKOL HALL& CLUB

UKRANIAN NATIONAL HOME

ELEANORKIDDPARK

Ambush Indoor

PaintballPersnickety

Ray's Autobody

Parking

ParkingParking

SOKOLMANOR

Former Shellstation

Old DutchFoods

Sobey'sCash & Carry


ActionPower

BrandonRadiatorService


HeartlandLivestock

Redwood Inn

ChampagneAuto Sales

MemoriesChapel

RodewayInn

NorthsideMazda

PrecisionToyota

Trails West Motor

Inn

Macdougall DentalLab &

Laundromat

STARPRINTING

WALLY'STAXI

Strip mall

Stripmall

Persnickety


Park

TRAIL TO DISCOVERY CENTRE,

SPORTSPLEX

SnowmobileStaging

Area

LIFT STATION

18th

Str

eet

17th

Str

eet

15th

Str

eet

14th

Str

eet

13th

Str

eet

12th

Str

eet

11th

Str

eet

Assiniboine Avenue

10th

Str

eet

9th

Str

eet

8th

Str

eet

7th

Str

eet

6th

Str

eet

5th

Stre

et

Maple Avenue

Byng Avenue

Parker Boulevard

McGregor Avenue


Weir8t

h St

reet

John Avenue

16th

Str

eet



Centre

To Downtown

PROPOSED BIKE LANE

Riverbank trail

Pedestrian Bridge

UKRANIAN ORTHODOXCHURCH OF THE

HOLY GHOST

MorningstarMetals

NORTH ENDCOMMUNITY

CENTRE

Cyc

le/w

alki

ng

pat

h

New landscapedbuffer along

CPR tracks tomititgate noise, dust

Make improvements (banners, lighting, handrails)to 8th street bridge to make

more pedestrian-friendly

Expanded recreationalfacilities for

community use

Baseball

Soccer

Mixed-useresidential & commercial

development

Develop seniors-oriented

amenities on vacant lotNew landscaped

buffer along CPRtracks to mitigate

noise, dust

New highway-orientedcommercial development

New moderatedensity housing

Relocate CPR loading dockto decrease truck traffic in

neighbourhood

Bike lane connectionto Rec Centre,

West End

Infillsingle and two-family housing

Designate new serviceaccess route for CPR traffic

New parking forusers of Riverbank amenities Realignment of

Riverbank trail



New landscapedbuffers along Parker Blvd. to soften views, mitigate

odors, noise and dust

Redevelop Burns Plant siteinto family recreational amenity/

public marketNew moderatedensity housing

McKenzieseeds test plots& demonstration

gardens

Design low areasto retain

stormwaterNew moderatedensity housing

Extend riverbank trailalong top of dike

Development of newriverbank park areas

Improvements to weir to improve accessibility

for fishing

New moderatedensity housing

Relocated Tot Lot, withimproved access to trails

and other recreationalfacilities

Develop 14th andJohn Avenue/Dyke Road

into parkway

Existing 80' Public Reserve

McKenzieseeds expansion

MAP 7: MEDIUM RANGEREVITALIZATION

STRATEGY


Long Range Revitalization Strategy

The fulfilment of long term initiatives satisfies the most fundamental goals of thisrevitalization strategy; namely, the relocation of the existing industry along ParkerBoulevard. Table 2 lists these initiatives, and Map 8 illustrates how these initiativesmay be realized within the neighbourhood. These initiatives build upon previousactions and initiatives, and particularly in the area north of Parker Boulevard, mustcarefully consider the larger connections to Riverbank amenities and programs.

Table 2: Long Range Strategy to Revitalize the North End Neighbourhood

Future Industrial Relocation

Issue Goal Action Suggested Initiative(s)

Relocation of existingindustry

Relocate industry andredevelop sites

City and industry tonegotiate relocation;CRC, City and Riverbankto determine bestpossible redevelopmentof industrial sites

Revisit Riverbank MasterPlan to identify possibleuses for industrial sites,develop appropriately


4.0 Implementation of Strategy

First Steps

While many of the initiatives to revitalize the existing residential areas of the NorthEnd neighbourhood can be best undertaken by a Community RevitalizationCommittee (CRC), new development elsewhere in the North End requires key stepsto be taken immediately by the Planning District and City.

These key steps are:

1. City Council adopts revitalization strategy as a General Planning Studyfor the neighbourhood.

2. City Council amends Development Plan and Zoning By-law to reflectrevitalization strategy.

3. City files a revised application for subdivision for the neighbourhood.4. City and Planning District hold discussions with developers regarding

development within the neighbourhood.5. City and Planning District hold discussions with any individuals owning

vacant land regarding possible purchase by the City.6. City issues a call for proposals to redevelop some or all of the vacant

lands within the neighbourhood.

Stickney Avenue

A s s i

n i

b o i

n e

R i

v e r

LIFT STATION

LIFT STATION

f o r m e r

S n y eC

r e e k

f o r m e r S n y e C r e e k

RIVERBANK MULTI-USE TRAIL-PAVED

EXISTING MULTI- FAMILYHOUSING

EXISTING INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

OPEN SPACES- DEVELOPEDAND UNDEVELOPED

LANDS TO REMAIN INAGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION

PROPOSED SERVICE ACCESSROUTE FOR CPR VEHICLES

EXISTING COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

EXISTING COMMUNITY FACILITIES

EXISTING SINGLE AND TWOFAMILY HOMES

Lands in agriculturalproduction

PROPOSED INFILL HOUSING

PROPOSED MULTI- FAMILYHOUSING

PROPOSED MULTI- FAMILYHOUSING WITH GROUND FLOOR COMMERCIAL

PROPOSED LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

EXISTING DIKE

0 50 100 250 500 feet


NEIGHBOURHOOD

L E G E N D

EXISTING

PROPOSED

CITY CYCLING/WALKING PATH-PAVED

EXISTING

PROPOSED

BOTANICALGARDEN

DUCKS UNLIMITED/RIVERBANK DISCOVERY CENTRE

WESTBRAN PARK

DINSDALEPARK

WESTBRANSTADIUM

UKRANIAN READING

ASSOC. HALLST. JOSEPH'S

CHURCH

ST. MARY'SCHURCH

SOKOL HALL& CLUB

UKRANIAN NATIONAL HOME

ELEANORKIDDPARK

Ambush Indoor

PaintballPersnickety

Ray's Autobody

Parking

ParkingParking

SOKOLMANOR

Former Shellstation

Old DutchFoods

Sobey'sCash & Carry


ActionPower

BrandonRadiatorService


HeartlandLivestock

Redwood Inn

ChampagneAuto Sales

MemoriesChapel

RodewayInn

NorthsideMazda

PrecisionToyota

Trails West Motor

Inn

Macdougall DentalLab &

Laundromat

STARPRINTING

WALLY'STAXI

Strip mall

Stripmall

Persnickety


Park

TRAIL TO DISCOVERY CENTRE,

SPORTSPLEX

SnowmobileStaging

Area

LIFT STATION

18th

Str

eet

17th

Str

eet

15th

Str

eet

14th

Str

eet

13th

Str

eet

12th

Str

eet

11th

Str

eet

Assiniboine Avenue

10th

Str

eet

9th

Str

eet

8th

Str

eet

7th

Str

eet

6th

Str

eet

5th

Stre

et

Maple Avenue

Byng Avenue

Parker Boulevard

McGregor Avenue


Weir8t

h St

reet

John Avenue

16th

Str

eet



Centre

To Downtown

PROPOSED BIKE LANE

Riverbank trail

Pedestrian Bridge

UKRANIAN ORTHODOXCHURCH OF THE

HOLY GHOST

MorningstarMetals

NORTH ENDCOMMUNITY

CENTRE

Cyc

le/w

alki

ng

pat

h

Develop senior'soriented recreation/

leisure amenity

Relocation of MckenzieSeeds plant

Develop new open spaceamenities, withpicnic facilities

Relocation of existing industry

f o r m e rS n y e

C r e e k

Expand moderate density housing

Relocation of existing industry

MAP 8: LONG RANGEREVITALIZATION

STRATEGY


Costs of Implementation

With these key steps taken, development can be expected to occur when sufficientdemand exists and the development is economically viable. At the outset of thisstudy, the City articulated its wish that the area be home to some affordablehousing choices. Only if land and development costs are reasonable can it beexpected that affordable housing be created in the neighbourhood.

While much of the land in the neighbourhood is serviced, some upgrading ofinfrastructure is required. Based on recent feasibility grade estimates undertaken bythe Department of Engineering and Operations, the approximate costs to upgradeinfrastructure within the study area (to a typical ‘urban and rural cross section’),including streets (28’ width), curbing, sidewalk (one side), landscaping, streetlighting, drainage ditches, sewer and water, to be approximately $5,000,000.00 (5).

Off-site costs (including arterial roads, bicycle paths, land drainage systems,sanitation, regional park system, cemetery, etc) are estimated at $12,600.00 pergross acre (these costs are the same for development throughout the city) (5).Additional costs specific to this area will be incurred through any excavation of theSnye Creek bed and the construction of stormwater retention ponds to addressdrainage issues inside the dike.

Other costs will have to be incurred to provide adequate protection to newconstruction from flooding. Methods of protection include elevation (of the entirestructure, or the main floor level), as well as dry and wet floodproofing. The methodof protection, and associated costs, will need to be determined in consultation withthe Department of Engineering and Operations.

To offset these development costs, the City may choose to sell developable land itowns in the neighbourhood at a reduced price. Presently, land zoned for singlefamily residential development in the neighbourhood is purchased by the City at$10,000.00 - $12,000.00 per acre. Passing on this cost to developers will make thisland very attractive, especially when compared to costs of $20,000.00 and up forraw unserviced land elsewhere in the city (6).

References

1. Reducing Flood Damage in Brandon. Manitoba Department of NaturalResources, Winnipeg, 1982.

2. The City of Brandon Assiniboine River Corridor Master Plan. Lombard NorthGroup, Winnipeg. Date Unknown.

3. Brandon Real Estate Board

4. Brandon and Area Planning District

5. City of Brandon Department of Engineering and Operations

6. City of Brandon Administrative Services


List of Maps and Tables

Maps

1. Existing Neighbourhood2. Topographic Character3. Methane Gas Protection Areas4. City Owned Land5. Existing Zoning6. Existing Underground Services7. Medium Range Revitalization Strategy8. Long Range Revitalization Strategy

Tables

1. Medium Range Strategy to Revitalize the North End Neighbourhood2. Long Range Strategy to Revitalize the North End Neighbourhood

Appendix A: Results of Survey

Appendix A Page A-1

Assiniview Neighbourhood Information Meeting Feb 22 2000

S U R V E Y R E S U L T S

Number of responses = 19

1. Are you a resident of the Assiniview Gardens Neighbourhood?

• Yes (16)• No (3)

If so, how long have you lived here?• 12 years• 20 years• 1 year• 74 years• 2 years• 3 years• 2 years 4 months• 5 years (3)• Previously lived in North End 8 years• 54 years• 50 years• 51 years• 25 1/2 years• 22 yrs• 47 years• No response (2)

2. Do you have a business in or work within the neighbourhood?

• Yes (6)• No (11)• No response (2)

3. Do you have school age children?

• Yes (7)• No (11)• No response

Appendix A Page A-2

If so, where do they attend school?• New Era School• Vincent Massey• Kirkcaldy Heights (2)• Private school (Regina SK)• Crocus Plains• Next year• No• No response (11)

4. Do you rent or own your residence?

• Own commercial property• Own (rented out)• Own (16)• No response

5. How would you describe this neighbourhood?

• “In transition” “Catching up to rest of city”• Neighbourhood is quiet and friendly• Nice• - Quiet, except for the traffic on 18th St. bridge

- Good city department services; i.e., garbage removal, street cleanup, mail - etc.- Too many young children cutting through the yard throwing stones, etc.

• A residential neighbourhood that has been neglected by the City• Quiet, except for trains, scenic, close to downtown• Fairly quiet, nice people, feel safe to walk even at night. See great potential - are

concerned about any future delapidation• A very quiet peaceful neighbourhood most of the, except for the trains which

you seem to get used to• Good• Mixed• A good place to live• On the usual quiet and safe• Quiet, friendly, low crime rate• Quiet and unassuming• Very nice; quiet; good family area• Peaceful; very pleasant for kids; quiet; we have a senior’s care facility and my

seniors love to walk in the area in the summer• This is a nice quiet neighbourhood• Friendly, quiet - plenty of green spaces close to river and bike paths• No response

Appendix A Page A-3

6. What do you like least about this neighbourhood?

• Accessibility• The reputation and opinion that people have about it• The ugliness of the industry down Parker Blvd., derelict vehicles, rundown

homes, threat of floods• Junk in people’s yards. Boarded up, vacant homes or homes in sad disrepair.

Eyesore of Burns Factory. Problems with vandalism and theft - concern in anyarea I’m sure

• Derelict vehicles; industrial business; poor condition of some homes and vacantlots

• The graffiti, old derelict buildings, not enough for families to do, or places toshop

• No future• We have no sewer• The run down homes If you develop to the north of me I think there would be

break ins I do not have City Sewer, I have septic tank & field• Nothing (2)• Vandalism• Old, uncared for homes• We don’t like the rental property in the neighbourhood because they don’t take

care of their property• I don’t like so many Brandon Housing units per capita and hope this number

will not be increased for a good long time; I don’t like the derelict vehiclesituation in our area and the condition of some yards and buildings

• No response (4)

7. What do you like best about this neighbourhood?

• Close to downtown• Close to many positive types of activities• It has that small town quality about it, people know each other• It was always a friendly place in live in• That it is quiet, we can walk to downtown, to the river, the closeness of bike

trails, walkways and the bridge• Close to river for walks or an evening of fishing - central to all amenities; low

taxes; variety of wildlife that passes through - even the pesky ones!• I like the peace and quiet, friendly neighbours I am real close to work• Good street cleaning service• Old time residents (land owners)• It’s quiet with no problems• It’s quiet• It is a very nice and safe place to live• Private + quiet• Green space, riverwalk areas

Appendix A Page A-4

• It’s very open; lots of grass and not a lot of neighbours; easy to get to the walkingpath; everyone knows each other; everyone that owns property here takes care ofit

• I like the quietness, the walking paths, closeness to downtown.• No response (3)

8. Do you use the Downtown for shopping, entertainment and services?

• Yes (5)• Yes - banking, Gallery - shopping• Go to some shops downtown• Occasionally stop in at the Gallery• We are cut off by the tracks and access to down town is never easy• Somewhat - mostly banking, restaurants and jewellery shops• Entertainment, YMCA, shops• No not usually, however I have on occasion shopped downtown, I only use it for

work and banking mostly• We don’t use right downtown, we go over the 8th Street bridge all the time to go

to Superstore• Not any more• No• At one time we did but now there’s nothing to go for• Not too often• No - go to 18th St.

How often?• Sporadically• 2 - 3 times a month• Once a month (2)• Twice a week• Weekly• 1 - 2 per week• At least 2 - 3 times per week• 5 times a week• Almost every day• As often as possible• Once a week (to 18th street)• No response (6)

Appendix A Page A-5

9. Do you walk, drive or take the bus Downtown?

• No (2)• Walk, sometimes I drive if I have other things to do• Usually walk or drive (6)• Walk (3)• Yes• Bus• Drive (5)

10. Where do you do most of your shopping?

• 18th Street & Victoria Ave, 9th Street to 36th Street• 18th & Richmond• 50/50 between downtown and the Shopper’s Mall• Downtown• Gallery, Safeway (10th & Victoria), Shopper’s Mall, Canadian Tire• Wal-Mart, Superstore (2)• At the malls because of parking• Superstore, Wal-Mart, shopped at Best Value, Red Apple• East end IGA, Canadian Tire, Wal-Mart, Mohawk & Pet Store 18th Street North

near Aunt Sarah’s restaurant• Stan’s IGA, Shoppers Mall, Zellers• Superstore or west end IGA• Shoppers mall (the true core of Brandon), West End IGA (mini-core), Superstore• IGA, Zellers• All over• Shoppers mall• Superstore• IGA• No response

11. Do you use the recreation and cultural facilities within the neighbourhood?

• Yes (7)• Not as yet except for riverwalk and fishing by dam• You can get to Curran Park from the dam without crossing a single road (honest)• We would like to use the skating rink, but they don’t make ice there - how come?

We use the walking path almost every day in summer, and at least 1 time a weekin winter. It’s great

• Just the walkway along the river, and the footbridge, also river for some fishing• No (5)• No response (3)

Appendix A Page A-6

12. Are you a senior?

• Yes (4)• No (14)• No response

Do you feel there are adequate facilities and programs for seniors within theneighbourhood?• No; inadequate shopping for seniors or others, no corner stores left, limited

access to downtown, especially for pedestrians• Some, but because we are cut off by tracks and river the Centre should be used

more• I don’t know much about these facilities• Don’t know about programs but Rotary senior complex would be a welcome

addition on this side of the river - could be a cornerstone for future development• I don’t know• I run a senior care facility in this neighbourhood; it would be nice to have a park

closer to 12th Street North for the seniors - there are many in this area• Yes• No - we could have another senior complex in our area• No• No response (10)

13. Do you use the riverbank trails?

• We like to walk or bike on the trails• Yes at various times they are very accessible from this area• Occasionally• Sometimes• A lot before they were built - now the stress to the environment is so high - I

leave nature well enough alone.• All the time; we think that it’s great• The odd time• Yes (9)• No (3)

How often?• Weekly during the summer• Often• Twice a week in the summer, never in winter• Monthly• In summer, 2 or 3 times a week• Once a week - North Hill to downtown• 1 or 2 times a week (2)• 5 or 6 times a year right now, hope to use it more in the future

Appendix A Page A-7

• In spring & fall• Seasonal• No response (8)

14. Do you like to walk or cycle within the neighbourhood?

• Walk (3)• Yes - kids use area community centre; park areas very quiet and enjoyable• Yes - but not at night• Yes (10)• We walk & cycle in the neighbourhood; we enjoy that you feel safe and everyone

knows everyone and watches out for your neighbours• No, but I should• No• No response

15. How do you feel about industrial development within this area?

• There are areas that are not suitable for residential use.• Depending on industry, it could work out alright• Not good idea• Don’t need any pollution. Nice to stay away from it. It’s on the east side of the

city and prefer to be far away from it• No (2)• I don’t like it very much• Absolutely not! Would detract from riverwalk and possible future development

of outdoor recreational possibilities. Noise, traffic, noxious emissions a concern.Not safe for kiddies!!

• Ok if it is small and on Parker Boulevard• The Burns plant is an eye sore; the stock yard is okay; it feels like we live on a

farm; the trucks don’t bother us• I feel this should be residential with parks and family outing places; for example,

a water park in Kamloops, B.C., brings a lot of people out everyday, childrenenjoy it, adults love it

• Not bad• Depends on what kind (2)• None required• Have all Industrial move to the east end• Prefer none (2)• Positive

Appendix A Page A-8

16. Have you ever had flooding problems?

• Yes in past times the grade elevations have been raised in some areas causingponding where it never existed before

• No (6)• Yes; every year we have water in our basement• Yes - last year we had water in the basement for a couple of months. Usually,

from the past owners - it wasn’t as bad (due to weather)• Yes (2)• No, not yet• No - but could be a problem• Yes - all the time due to age of house with water level high in ground. Our

basement needs replacing• Only from the spring that runs under the house• Not on our street• Just due to incompetent run sewers• In 1954, seepage 1999• No response

Do you consider this a problem?• Yes (4)• My basement is not finished I have a sump pump, so I will make do. But it is a

negative factor should I try to re - sell my property• We have taken steps to make it not so much of a problem - indoor/outdoor

carpet• No, not yet• In terms of river flooding - definite concern - detracts from new houses or

renovating being built & repaired, etc.• It very well is and the dyke should be much higher• For me it is• Dike should be improved as city had to top up dike the last time the river rose - it

almost went over• Come on?!!!!• No (3)• Unknown. No worse than the Kirkcaldy Heights• No response (4)

17. Do you feel that bus services within the Assiniview Gardens Neighbourhood areadequate?

• Not enough knowledge to form opinion.• We don’t use buses, but they go down the road only 1 block from us• Yes (9)

Appendix A Page A-9

• Very good; the bus goes down Stickney and all homes are within 3 blocks ofservice. A small area from 5th St. N to bridge only has one stop; all these peoplehave to catch bus at the bridge.

• It is okay for what I need. I don’t rely on bus service but will take the bus once ina while

• For now• No response (5)

18. Do you consider truck traffic within the neighbourhood a problem? If so,where?

• No (7)• No; we don’t hear them; they are 1 block away from us; if they were closer to us

maybe then we would• I don’t have a problem with it• Truck traffic is a problem on Stickney Avenue which is totally residential and

should not be used by and trucks. Signs on 18th, 8th Street and Pacific Avenuewould do a lot to correct this problem

• Too many trucks on Stickney Avenue, as there are no businesses on this avenue.Truck routes poorly posted

• 18th Street truck traffic does get noisy at times but you get used to it• Very much so in the 7th & 9th Street area near the CPR bridge• Never really noticed or gave it much thought• Not too bad• Some years flax trucks run from the CP RAIL yards every 20 min. around the

clock.• Along Stickey Avenue• Yes, there should be a designated truck route posted• Yes; truck traffic on Stickney and Assiniboine travel at 50 to 60 kms. Trucks

should be forced to 30 km in this area

19. When you consider change and growth of the Assiniview GardensNeighbourhood, how do you feel about the following?

More single and two family housing?• Yes (9)• The housing should be in the $80 000 range; new housing welcome• I would like to see single family housing in a moderate price range to bring good

young hard working couples to our area. I also think seniors are good for aneighbourhood

• There are already too many (Brandon Housing) type homes in this area• Could be okay• Some - not low income or rental because we have found that they don’t take care

of the property

Appendix A Page A-10

• In some cases they take away rather than give to the neighbourhood• Would be most welcomed• Yes I am for it and get rid of these old buildings & houses that are not being used• No more low rental• No

More residential development?• Yes (10)• I’d like to see more residential development if it increases the value of our area,

but if we get more Brandon Housing it will turn out to be the ghetto.• Not low rental housing• Yes, that’s okay - not low income or rental because we have found that they don’t

take care of the property• Yes - within limits• Wouldn’t bother us• No• Restricted (2)

More commercial development? What kind?• In areas• Commercial development might help• Residential• Senior’s complex, athletic complex• Small grocery store maybe• Commercial development is fine, if it’s positive, family oriented• Convenience store or specialty shops depending on location - develop river bank

on a smaller scale to Winnipeg. “The Forks” with bike, ski trails to connect withnorth riverbank, etc.

• Yes we could use a small mall, grocery store, ice cream stand, etc.• Yes - home based businesses, restaurant, enclosed rink or pool• Yes - grocery store• Yes, commercial along 18th Street gets jobs for the area• No (5)• No response (3)

More industrial development?• Light industrial only• Depends on the industry• Industry along Parker - industry and commercial on frontage would not hurt the

core of the North End• Not a good idea if we want to keep it a quiet, scenic, future residential or

commercial area• No (9)• No we probably have enough• No response (5)


More recreational facilities?• As the city can afford• For many growing up• Yes, swimming pool• Yes, pool, skating rink• Big time - the YMCA and baseball parks, etc.• Yes (9)• For whom?• No• No response (3)

Re-opening schools within the neighbourhood?• Yes with the number of school busses (sic) on the road why could the north end

not be a destination.• Yes, we have a 4 1/2 year old that is going to be bussed away from here• It is a thought! If more children come into the area• Yes (3)• Grades 1 to 6• Yes, good idea as long as there are enough children to keep it open• If enough children reside, of course• Yes• This would not hurt, but bussing allows two working parents not to need

daycare for school ate kids (get on bus at 8:30, return at 4:30)• We should be equal to other neighbourhoods• If needed (2)• No (2)• Not necessarily• No response (3)

20. Do you have any other comments or thoughts about your neighbourhood?

• (1) I wonder why no commercial or industrial owners are not on the committee;(2) I think that a transitional zoning arrangement should be developed tofacilitate the continued usage of exiting industrial commercial property; (3) In thepast Brandon And Area Planning has not listened to people connected to thearea. Why are we to believe that this has changed

• I really like the neighbourhood• Too many; get the dam safe and cleaned up so many more can enjoy the summer

fishing, swimming and picnicking• We so far like our neighbourhood we are concerned about the schooling the

resale value and the possibility things will not change• We sincerely hope that a more clear vision will soon be available. We would

really like to upgrade our home but will not if this area becomes industrial or isleft to decline further. Suggestions: (1) Incentives to renovate (e.g. siding,windows); (2) Suggestions re: the multiple problems with water in basements,


crumbling walls, heaving; (3) Approach Habitat for Humanity to renovate homesfor new families in need; and so on

• Parking area on this side of the river for footbridge, the north end has had a badreputation in the past, lets change that and make it a beautiful place for us andfuture families to live.

• Yes I would like to get sewer• Prefer it to be developed into a seniors area• Need more senior housing; quiet at times; get rid of slumlords; people too

transient!!• Proper development would help this area grow. Housing, commercial and

industry are welcome. Just put each thing in its proper are. We do not needindustry in the housing areas

• We like that it is private and not congested with lots of homes. We do think thatmore recreational facilities would go along great for the walking path. We alsohave a bed & breakfast here and the people who come here like the activityaround our house. They don’t have to drive anywhere to see the river, walking,hiking, flower gardens, bird park, skiing. So a pool and skating facility would gogreat down here. Also senior apartments along the river would be good - greatplace for them, nice view and a place to walk even in wheelchairs or walkers,great for people to come and visit them - if there were parks and recreationalfacilities

• I believe this area can be improved a lot by getting places like Heartland out ofhere and others along that strip. Environmentally I don’t feel Heartland shouldbe so close to our river anyway. The person who pressure washes semi trailersand flushes manure water wastes on the ground should be elsewhere

• This area could be greatly improved! If the dike is not improved to keep areafrom flooding it will be hard to attract residential housing. Industry must bemoved out as it is not compatible with a residential concept. This area has a poorreputation throughout the city of Brandon. This must be changed to attract a newand improved concept for this area (a great place to live, etc.). Once this area isseen as a place to be, existing residents may also be willing to improve theirresidences. In other cities living by the river is the place to live

• No response (6)

Appendix B: Community Profile

Appendix B Page B-1

COMMUNITY PROFILE

The Community Profile describes the character of the neighbourhood and issuesidentified by the residents as relevant to the community.

The Community Profile has been divided into the following categories:

COMMUNITY PERCEPTIONS

HOUSING

CULTURE & RECREATION

SHOPPING

SENIORS

INDUSTRY

TRANSPORTATION

GENERAL

Appendix B Page B-2

COMMUNITY PERCEPTIONS

PROFILE

• Described as a peaceful, friendly,quiet and safe neighbourhood,with a small town feel, lots of openspace, great for families

• Residents were concerned aboutthe perception of theneighbourhood, accessibility,vandalism, run-down and poorlymaintained houses and yards andderelict vehicles

• Residents feel that the city andplanning district have, in the past,not been responsive to their needs

DIRECTION

ÿ Maintain and enhance thecharacter of existingneighbourhood,

ÿ Use as a model for newdevelopment

ÿ Protect and enhance open spacesfor community use

ÿ Encourage development ofamenities needed/desired byfamilies

ÿ Start neighbourhood clean-upprogram

ÿ Start neighbourhood watchprogram

ÿ Revitalization program to raiseprofile of neighbourhood(landscaping, signage,streetscaping)

ÿ Ensure enforcement of by-laws

ÿ Develop a clear vision for theneighbourhood in consultationwith the residents, building anopen, trusting relationship withresidents

ÿ Follow through with actions

Appendix B Page B-3

HOUSING

PROFILE

• Most residents own the homes theylive in, seen as positive

• Many residents have had problemswith water and flooding

• Single family and two-familyhousing largely seen as desirable;some concern over additionalrental properties

• Multiple family housing, includinghousing for seniors, was largelyseen as desirable; again, someconcern over additional rentalproperties

DIRECTION

ÿ Reinforce the strength of theneighbourhood by encouragingadditional development ofaffordable housing

ÿ Pursue government and otherprograms that encourage lowincome families to purchase homes

ÿ Make necessary repairs to dike,upgrade sewers as appropriate andimprove drainage south of ParkerBoulevard

ÿ Encourage the development ofsingle and two-family housing inappropriate areas

ÿ Ensure good management of rentalproperties (by-law enforcement,ombudsman, rentalsman)

ÿ Encourage the development of wellplanned and well designedmultiple family housing inappropriate areas

ÿ Encourage good management ofrental properties (by-lawenforcement, ombudsman,rentalsman)

Appendix B Page B-4

CULTURE & RECREATION

PROFILE

• Leisure activities include walking,cycling, fishing

• Cultural facilities (i.e., Sokol Club,Ukrainian National Home,Reading Association Hall) are wellused

• Lack of outdoor recreationfacilities; others not maintained(skating rink)

• Proximity to riverbank trails andnearby amenities an asset

• Recognition of the need foramenities to support and enhancethe riverbank (i.e., programmedevents, canoe rentals, RV park)

DIRECTION

ÿ Maintain, upgrade and extendtrails and sidewalks

ÿ Identify, create and sign bicycleroutes

ÿ Clean up and improve weir site forfishing

ÿ Maintain and enhance thesefacilities

ÿ Protect from encroachment by newdevelopment

ÿ Encourage the development offacilities and amenities that meetthe present and future needs of theneighbourhood

ÿ Ensure ongoing operation andmaintenance of facilities

ÿ Enhance connections to riverbank,extend and upgrade trails asappropriate

ÿ Encourage the development offacilities and amenities that bothsupport riverbank and are sensitiveto the existing neighbourhood

Appendix B Page B-5

SHOPPING

PROFILE

• Proximity to downtown an asset;many people travel by car to shopthere- CPR tracks and 8th StreetBridge seen as a barrier

• No significant shopping (includingneighbourhood retail) within thearea, most residents do theirshopping elsewhere

• Unique commercial, sensitive tothe neighbourhood, would be anappropriate use for the Burns Plant

DIRECTION

ÿ Make 8th Street bridge morepedestrian friendly

ÿ Pursue other means of access

ÿ Encourage development thatsupports daily shopping

ÿ Feasibility study should beundertaken to determine mostappropriate use/development ofsite

Appendix B Page B-6

SENIORS

PROFILE

• Existing senior’s home (SokolManor) in the neighbourhood, withno vacancies and demand for moreunits

• Concern that senior’s amenities aremissing or poor

DIRECTION

ÿ Encourage the development ofmore senior’s housing to meetneeds of seniors at all levels ofcare/help required

ÿ Encourage the development ofbetter facilities

ÿ Ensure continued and improvedaccess to amenities elsewhere inthe city

Appendix B Page B-7

INDUSTRY

PROFILE

• Existing industrial development aconcern of residents

• Light industry, sensitive to theneighbourhood, may be anappropriate use in the area

DIRECTION

ÿ Mitigate impact of industry to theneighbourhood through setbacksand buffers

ÿ Restrict further industrialdevelopment

ÿ Explore relocation of industryaway from riverbank andneighbourhood

ÿ Explore this issue through sensitiveplanning of neighbourhood

ÿ Build partnerships with industry toincorporate public/visitoramenities

Appendix B Page B-8

TRANSPORTATION

PROFILE

• Bus service in the neighbour-hoodis perceived as good

• Truck traffic a problem within theneighbourhood

DIRECTION

ÿ Maintain and encourage ridershipthrough improvements to busstops/waiting areas; addadditional stops

ÿ Encourage residential developmentthat is efficient to serve by transit

ÿ Limit truck traffic to appropriatestreets, develop better signage, anddesign and construct truck routesto reduce impacts onneighbourhood

Appendix B Page B-9

GENERAL

PROFILE

• Most residents have lived in theneighbourhood a long time andhave roots in the community; seenas a positive

• Many residents work or ownbusinesses in the neighbourhood

• Not enough school age children tosupport an elementary school

DIRECTION

ÿ Address resident concerns toimprove the neighbourhood

ÿ Encourage home improvement

ÿ Encourage development thatattracts people who wish to setdown roots in the neighbour hood

ÿ Protect existing businesses fromencroachment by newdevelopment

ÿ Clarify boundaries betweencommercial and residential

ÿ Encourage the development of newemployment opportunities in theneighbourhood

ÿ Encourage additional residentialdevelopment to increase numbersof school age children

Documents

REVITALIZING THE NORTH END NEIGHBOURHOOD A Community ...€¦ · The revitalization of the North End Neighbourhood is an initiative of the Brandon and Area Planning District, in partnership