84-88 Columbia Street West Waterloo, Ontario Transportation Impact Study. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited

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1 84-88 Columbia Street West Waterloo, Ontario Transportation Impact Study Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited June 217

2 Project Summary Project Number June 217 Client Masri O Inc. Architects 69 Kumpf Drive, Suite 11 Waterloo ON N2V 1K8 Client Contact Reema Masri, BSc. Arch. Eng., OAA, MRAIC Columbia Street W, Waterloo Ontario Transportation Impact Study List of Revisions Version Date Description 1 January 216 Draft for Comment 2 June 217 Revised Site Plan Signatures and Seals Consultant Project Team James Mallett, P.Eng., PTOE Peter Kelly, E.I.T. Signature Engineer s Seal Disclaimer Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited 22 King Street South, Suite 3 Waterloo ON N2J 1N8 p: This document has been prepared for the titled project or named part thereof and should not be relied upon or used for any other project without an independent check being carried out as to its suitability and prior written authorization of Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited being obtained. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited accepts no responsibility or liability for the consequence of this document being used for a purpose other than the purposes for which it was commissioned. Any person using or relying on the document for such other purpose agrees, and will by such use or reliance be taken to confirm their agreement to indemnify Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited for all loss or damage resulting there from. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited accepts no responsibility or liability for this document to any party other than the person by whom it was commissioned. To the extent that this report is based on information supplied by other parties, Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by the client, whether through contract or tort, stemming from any conclusions based on data supplied by parties other than Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited and used by Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited in preparing this report. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited

3 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Executive Summary Content Masri O Inc. Architects retained Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited (Paradigm) to conduct this Transportation Impact Study for a planned residential development located in the City of Waterloo. This Transportation Impact Study (TIS) includes an analysis of existing traffic conditions, a description of the proposed development, traffic forecasts for a horizon of five years from full build-out (222, assuming one year for construction), and recommendations to improve future traffic conditions. Development Concept The subject site is located on the north side of Columbia Street West (#84-88) between Albert Street and Hazel Street in Waterloo, Ontario. The proposed development consists of one, three-storey building. The development will provide 38 bedrooms in 28 stacked townhouse units. Access will be provided via an all-moves driveway onto Columbia Street. Vehicle parking is provided via 28 parking stalls. Conclusions Based on the investigations carried out, it is concluded that: currently under 216 existing conditions the following problem movements are noted: at the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street, the northbound through-right movement operates at LOS E (v/c =.85) during the PM peak hour. the development is forecast to generate 14 and 17 new trips during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively; under 222 background traffic conditions, the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street intersections is forecast to operate with the following problem movements: the eastbound through-right movement is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c = 1.1) during the PM peak hour; the westbound left movement is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c =.97) during the PM peak hour; and the northbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c =.91) during the AM peak hour and LOS F (v/c = 1.16) during the PM peak hour. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page i

4 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 under 222 total traffic conditions the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street is forecast to operate with the following problem movements: the eastbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c = 1.1) during the PM peak hour; the westbound left-turn movement is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c =.85) during the PM peak hour; the northbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c =.91) during the AM peak hour and LOS F (v/c = 1.17) during the PM peak hour; and the southbound left-turn movement is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c =.94) during the PM peak hour. traffic control signals are not forecast to be warranted at any of the intersections within the study area; and left-turn lanes are not forecast to be warranted at any of the intersections within the study area. Recommendations Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that the development be approved for construction with no conditions related to off site. In addition, regardless of whether the development application is approved, it is recommended that the Region of Waterloo monitor traffic conditions and consider optimizing signal timing plans for the intersections of Columbia Street and Albert Street, and Columbia Street and Hazel Street for future horizons. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page ii

5 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Contents 1 Introduction Overview Study Purpose and Scope Existing Conditions Road Network Transit Service Traffic Volumes Traffic Operations Development Concept Development Description Development Trip Generation Development Trip Distribution and Assignment Evaluation of Future Traffic Conditions Background Traffic Growth Background Traffic Other Developments Background Traffic Operations Total Traffic Operations Remedial Measures Signal Warrants Left-turn Lanes Sight Distance Traffic Operations Improvements Conclusions and Recommendations Conclusions Recommendations Appendices Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D 216 Existing Traffic Operations Reports 222 Background Traffic Operations Reports 222 Total Traffic Operations Reports 222 Total Traffic with Remedial Measures Operations Reports Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page iii

6 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Figures Figure 1.1: Study Area and Subject Development Location... 2 Figure 2.1: Traffic Control and Lane Configuration... 4 Figure 2.2: Existing Transit Routes... 5 Figure 2.3: 216 Existing Peak Hour Traffic Volumes... 8 Figure 3.1: Proposed Development Site Plan Figure 3.2: Site Generated Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Figure 4.1a: 222 Background (General Growth) Peak Hour Traffic Volumes... 2 Figure 4.1b: 222 Background Traffic (Other Developments) Peak Hour Volumes... 3 Figure 4.1c: 222 Background Peak Hour Traffic Volumes... 4 Figure 4.2: 222 Total Peak Hour Traffic Volumes... 8 Figure 5.1: Columbia Street and Development Driveway (Total Traffic) Eastbound Left Turn Lane Warrant Analysis Tables Table 2.1: Base Year Peak Hour Traffic Operations... 1 Table 3.1: Estimated Development Trip Generation Table 3.2: Estimated Trip Distribution Table 4.1: 222 Background Traffic Operations... 6 Table 4.2: 222 Total Traffic Operations... 9 Table 5.1: 222 Total Traffic Operations with Remedial Measures.. 12 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page iv

7 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Introduction 1.1 Overview Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited (Paradigm) has been retained by Masri O Inc. Architects to conduct this Transportation Impact Study for a planned residential development located in the City of Waterloo. Figure 1.1 details the location of the subject development. 1.2 Study Purpose and Scope The purpose of this report is to identify and address the anticipated traffic impact of the proposed development by determining the forecast impact of forecast traffic generated by the site development on the adjacent street network. This study has been prepared in accordance with the requirements detailed by the Regional Municipality of Waterloo (RMOW) in its Transportation Impact Study Guidelines 1, and it is noted that the City of Waterloo also follows these guidelines. Paradigm contacted the City of Waterloo in accordance with the requirements of the City to hold a pre-study conference meeting to confirm the study scope. City staff indicated that correspondence by would be sufficient. The agreed-upon study scope includes: determining and assessing current traffic and conditions near the site; forecasting five-year (222) background conditions without development; forecasting the additional traffic that will be generated by the proposed development; analysing the 222 planning horizon with and without the development to determine the impact that this traffic may have on the adjacent street system at the intersections of: Columbia Street and Albert Street; Columbia Street and Hazel Street; and Columbia Street and Development Driveway. recommending any necessary remedial measures required to mitigate the site generated traffic impacts in a satisfactory manner. 1 Transportation Impact Study Guidelines, Regional Municipality of Waterloo, July 214. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 1

8 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Study Area Figure 1.1: Study Area and Subject Development Location Subject Site Study Area and Development Location Figure 1.1 Source: Region of Waterloo, GIS Viewer Columbia Street, Waterloo Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 2

9 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Existing Conditions This section documents current traffic conditions, operational deficiencies, and constraints experienced by the public travelling at the intersections within the study area. The operational deficiencies and constraints identified at this stage will be fundamental to the process of defining the required remedial measures. 2.1 Road Network Figure 1.1 illustrated the subject site location and the study area roadways. The study area is primarily comprised of student residential development, with educational institutions and commercial developments to the south and west. Albert Street and Hazel Street are two-lane 5 km/h road facilities. Columbia Street is a four-lane road facility with posted speed limits of 5 km/h. Currently there are sidewalks present on both sides of all roads within the study area. Columbia Street provides on-road, dedicated cycling facilities. Figure 2.1 displays the traffic control and lane configuration of intersections within the study area. The intersections of Columbia Street and Albert Street and Columbia Street and Hazel Street both currently operate under traffic signal control. Region of Waterloo provided signal timing plans were used within the Synchro 9 model. 2.2 Transit Service Grand River Transit (GRT) currently operates 9 bus routes within 6 metres of the subject site. Figure 2.2 displays subject site location relative to these routes. The transit routes include: 2 ixpress services the King Street corridor throughout Kitchener and Waterloo via King Street and on to Cambridge, with major stops at Conestoga Mall, the Charles Street Terminal, Fairview Park Mall and the Ainslie Street Terminal. From Monday to Friday, the route operates on 1 to 15-minute headways during peak hours, and 3- minute headways off-peak, service runs from 5:3 AM to 11:39 PM. On Saturdays, the route operates on 15-minute headways during peak hours, and 3-minute headways off-peak, service runs from 7:25 AM to 11:4 PM and on Sundays/Holidays the route operates on 3-minute headways from 8: AM to 9:27 PM. 21 ixpress services the Columbia Street corridor throughout Waterloo, with major stops at Conestoga Mall, the University of Waterloo and Highland Hills Mall. From Monday to Friday, the route operates on 1 to 15-minute headways during peak hours, and 3- minute headways off-peak, service runs from 5:3 AM to 11:39 PM. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 3

10 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Figure 2.1: 2 Traffic Control and Lane Configuration 3 Traffic Control and Lane Configuration Figure 2.1 Source: Google Maps Columbia Street, Waterloo Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 4

11 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Figure 2.2: Existing Transit Routes Source: Grand River Transit Existing Transit Routes Figure Columbia Street, Waterloo Development Location Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 5

12 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 On Saturdays, the route operates on 15-minute headways during peak hours, and 3-minute headways off-peak, service runs from 7:25 AM to 11:4 PM and on Sundays/Holidays the route operates on 3-minute headways from 8: AM to 9:27 PM. 22 ixpress services the University Avenue corridor throughout Waterloo, with major stops at Conestoga Mall, the University of Waterloo and The Boardwalk. From Monday to Friday, the route operates on 15-minute headways during peak hours, and 3-minute headways off-peak, service runs from 5:55 AM to 12:32 AM. On Saturdays, the route operates on 3-minute headways and service runs from 6:55 AM to 12:28 AM and on Sundays/Holidays the route operates on 3-minute headways from 7:5 AM to 12:23 AM. Route #7 Main Line services the King Street corridor throughout Kitchener and Waterloo via King Street, with major stops at Conestoga Mall, the Charles Street Terminal and Fairview Park Mall. This route primarily operates on 15-minute headways throughout the business day and runs from 5:2 AM to 12:55 AM on weekdays, operates on 15-minute headways on Saturdays and runs from 5:3 AM to 2:14 PM, and operates on 15-minute headways on Sundays and runs from 8:11 AM to 7:22 PM, Route #8 University/Fairview services Waterloo via Weber Street and Westmount Road and services Kitchener via Courtland Boulevard and Franklin Boulevard with major stops at the Charles Street Terminal and Fairview Park Mall. From Monday to Friday, the route operates on 3-minute headways and service runs from 5:4 AM to 12:42 AM. On Saturdays, the route operates on 3-minute headways from 5:5 AM to 12:42 AM and on Sundays/Holidays the route operates on 45-minute headways from 7:35 AM to 12:4 AM. Route #9: Lakeshore services Waterloo via Weber Street and Northfield Drive with major stops at the Conestoga Mall, UW at Davis Centre and King Street at University Avenue. This route operates on a 3-minute headway with 15-minute headway from 6:4AM to 9:4AM and 3:15PM to 5:45PM (during Fall and Winter) and runs from 5:25AM to 12:36AM on weekdays, from 6:1AM to 12:36AM on Saturday, and from 8:15AM to 12:4AM on Sunday. Route #12 Conestoga Mall/Fairview Mall services west Kitchener/Waterloo and north Waterloo with stops along Westmount Road, Fairway Road, and University Avenue with major stops at Charles Street Terminal, Forest Glen Plaza, and University of Waterloo. From Monday to Friday, the route operates on 15-minute headways during peak hours, and 3-minute headways off-peak, service runs from 5:15 AM to 1:26 AM. On Saturdays, the route operates on 3-minute headways from 6:45 AM to 1:26 AM and on Sundays/Holidays the route operates on 3-minute headways from 8: AM to 1:25 PM. Route #29 Keats Way services central Waterloo with major stops at; The Boardwalk, Fischer-Hallman Road and Keats Way, University Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 6

13 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 of Waterloo, Laurier University and King Street and University Avenue. From Monday to Friday, the route operates on 15-minute headways during peak hours, and 3-minute headways off-peak, service runs from 5:56 AM to 12:1 AM. On Saturdays, the route operates on 3-minute headways from 6:45 AM to 12:5 AM and on Sundays/Holidays the route operates on 3-minute headways from 8:21 AM to 1:4 PM. Route #31 Lexington services eastern Waterloo with major stops at; Conestoga Mall, University Avenue and Lexington Road, Columbia Street and King Street, and the University of Waterloo. From Monday to Friday, the route operates on 3-minute headways and service runs from 6:15 AM to 6:44 PM. The route does not operate on Saturday, Sunday and Holidays. 2.3 Traffic Volumes The City of Waterloo and Regional Municipality of Waterloo provided turning movement counts where available and dated within a reasonable timeframe. Paradigm collected turning movement count data for all remaining intersections within the study area. Figure 2.3 displays the existing (216) peak hour traffic volumes. The total two-way peak hour traffic volumes on Columbia Street near the site range from approximately 1,6 vehicles in the AM peak hour to 2,125 vehicles during the PM peak hour, both of which are well below the maximum accepted capacity for a four-lane major arterial street (3,6). 2.4 Traffic Operations Intersection level of service (LOS) is a recognized method of quantifying the average delay experienced by drivers at intersections. It is based on the delay experienced by individual vehicles executing the various movements. The delay is related to the number of vehicles desiring to make a movement, compared to the estimated capacity for that movement. The capacity is based on several criteria related to the opposing traffic flows and intersection geometry. The highest possible rating is LOS A, under which the average total delay is equal or less than 1. seconds per vehicle. When the average delay exceeds 8 seconds for signalized intersections, 5 seconds for unsignalized intersections or when the volume to capacity ratio is greater than 1., the movement is classed as LOS F and remedial measures are usually implemented, if they are feasible. LOS E is usually used as a guideline for the determination of road improvement needs on through lanes, while LOS F may be acceptable for left-turn movements at peak times, depending on delays. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 7

14 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Figure 2.3: AM Peak Hour 216 Existing Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Development Driveway Columbia Street Albert Street 479 Hazel Street PM Peak Hour 496 Development Driveway Columbia Street Albert Street Hazel Street Columbia Street, Waterloo, TIS Existing Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Figure 2.3 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 8

15 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 The operations of intersections in the study area were evaluated with the existing turning movement volumes using Synchro 9. The intersection analysis considered two separate measures of performance: the volume to capacity ratio for each intersection; and the LOS for each turning movement (LOS is based on the average control delay per vehicle). Table 2.1 summarizes the existing intersection operations and contains the existing AM and PM peak hour levels of service (LOS), volume to capacity ratios (V/C) and 95th percentile queues experienced within the study area. Appendix A contains the detailed Synchro 9 reports. All intersections and individual movements within the study operate at acceptable levels of service, volume to capacity ratios and queue lengths, except at the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street where the northbound through-right movement operates at LOS E (v/c =.85) during the PM peak hour. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 9

16 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 TABLE 2.1: BASE YEAR PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC OPERATIONS Analysis Period Intersection Control Type MOE LEFT Direction / Movement / Approach Eastbound Westbound Northbound Southbound THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH OVERALL AM Peak Hour PM Peak Hour 1 - Columbia Street and Albert Street 2 - Columbia Street and Hazel Street 1 - Columbia Street and Albert Street 2 - Columbia Street and Hazel Street Signal Signal Signal Signal LOS B C C C B B B B C C C C C C C C C Delay V/C Queue LOS A A A A B B B B C C C C C C C C B Delay V/C Queue LOS C C C C D B B B C E E D C C C C C Delay V/C Queue LOS A A A A A B B C C C C C C C C C B Delay V/C Queue Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 1

17 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Development Concept 3.1 Development Description The subject site is located at the north side of Columbia Street West (#84-88) between Albert Street and Hazel Street in Waterloo, Ontario. The proposed development consists of one, three-storey building. The development will provide a total of 38 bedrooms in 28 stacked townhouse units. Access will be provided via an all-moves driveway onto Columbia Street. Vehicle parking is provided via 28 parking stalls. Figure 3.1 shows the development concept. 3.2 Development Trip Generation The Institute of Transportation Engineer s Trip Generation 2 provide trip generation rates and equations to estimate the forecast trips produced by the development based on the Land Use Code (LUC): LUC 22 (Apartment): Rental dwelling units that are located within the same building with at least three other dwelling units, for example quadraplexes and all types of apartment buildings. The studies included in this land use did not identify whether the apartments were low-rise, mid-rise, or high-rise. The site plan identifies the development as stacked townhouses. In Paradigm s experience within the Northdale area, these units are more likely to act as apartment units, based upon the area demographics, and tendency for the units to be rented. Further, the associated trip generation for LUC 22 (Apartment) is higher than the trip generation associated with LUC 23 (Residential Condominium/Townhouse), and therefore represents a more conservative approach. Table 3.1 indicated that the estimated number of net new trips generated by the proposed development are: 14 AM peak hour trips (3 in and 11 out); and 17 PM peak hour trip (11 in and 6 out). A transit reduction of 1% of the development trip generation reflects the higher rate of Grand River Transit use documented to occur in the area. The numerous bus routes servicing the area combined with the knowledge that students of both the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University receive a transit pass included within their tuition, further increases the likelihood of utilizing transit, it is anticipated that the actual transit mode share be higher than 1%. Therefore, this value represents a conservative approach, furthermore. 2 Trip Generation Eighth Edition, Institute of Transportation Engineers, Washington D.C., 28 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 11

18 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Figure 3.1: Proposed Development Site Plan Columbia Street, Waterloo Proposed Site Plan Figure 3.1 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 12

19 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Additionally, student car ownership 3 has been found to be lower than that of Regional average. For that reason, it can be expected that the apartment trip generation be lower than represented within Table 3.1. However, the ITE rates were maintained as a conservative approach. TABLE 3.1: ESTIMATED DEVELOPMENT TRIP GENERATION Land Use Code Units AM Peak Hour PM Peak Hour Rate In Out Total Rate In Out Total 22 Apartment 28 x dwelling unit Transit Reduction 1% % -1-1 Net New Trips Development Trip Distribution and Assignment Given that the immediate area is largely developed by similar developments, the trip distribution was based on the likely origin/destination of trips generated by the development and the existing distribution on the surrounding streets. Table 3.2 displays the breakdown of trip distribution used in this study. TABLE 3.2: ESTIMATED TRIP DISTRIBUTION The assumed trip distribution follows: Origin/Destination Percentage East via Columbia Street 35% West via Columbia Street 35% North via Albert Street 1% South via Albert Street 1% North via Hazel Street 5% South via Hazel Street 5% Total 1% Columbia Street (East) 35% of the site traffic was assumed to be oriented to/from the east along University Avenue as this route provides access to northern Waterloo, specifically Conestoga Mall and access to Highway 85; Columbia Street (West) 35% of the site traffic was assumed to be oriented to/from the west along Columbia Street as this route provides access to the University of Waterloo, and the David Johnson Research and Technology Park; Albert Street (North) 1% of the site traffic was assumed to be oriented to/from the north along Albert Street which provides access to north Waterloo; Albert Street (South) 1% of the site traffic was assumed to be oriented to/from the south along Albert Street which provides access 3 Student Accommodation Survey Results Report, City of Waterloo, 212 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 13

20 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 to Uptown Waterloo, the University of Waterloo, and Wilfrid Laurier University; Hazel Street (North) 5% of the site traffic was assumed to be oriented to/from the north along Hazel Street which provides access to residential neighbourhoods; and Hazel Street (South) 5% of the site traffic was assumed to be oriented to/from the south along Hazel Street which provides access to residential neighbourhoods. Figure 3.2 illustrates the site generated traffic volumes for the AM and PM peak hours, respectively. It is noted that direct application of the percentages contained in Table 3.3 has the potential to result in assigned volumes that may be higher than the information presented in Table 3.1 owing to rounding. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 14

21 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Figure 3.2: AM Peak Hour Site Generated Peak Hour Traffic Volumes 1 12 Development Driveway Columbia Street Albert Street 1 Hazel Street PM Peak Hour Development Driveway Columbia Street Albert Street 1 Hazel Street Columbia Street, Waterloo, TIS Site Generated Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Figure 3.2 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 15

22 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Evaluation of Future Traffic Conditions The assessment of future traffic conditions contained in this section includes estimates of future background and total traffic and analysis for the 222 horizon. The future traffic volumes near the development will likely consist of increased non-site traffic volumes (background traffic), traffic generated by other developments, and the traffic forecast to be generated by the proposed development Background Traffic Growth Background Traffic The non-site traffic increase is the generalized traffic growth in the City of Waterloo. The generalized growth is anticipated to follow the average increase in population within the area. The City of Waterloo confirmed a growth rate of 2% per annum to forecast the background traffic. Figure 4.1a displays the 222 background traffic Other Developments Due to the large development within the Northdale neighbourhood, Paradigm considered the traffic volumes from known development applications. Figure 4.1b displays the traffic volumes associated with other developments in the area, and includes traffic from the following proposed developments: 62 Balsam Street; Balsam Block; Batavia Place; Lester Street; 28 Lester Street; 251 Hemlock Street; 23 Albert Street; 222 Albert Street; Albert Street; 246 Albert Street; 253 Albert Street; Ivy Towns 2; Ivy Towns 3; Sunview Street; 255 Sunview Street; 258 Sunview Street; 269 Sunview Street; 85 Columbia Street; 99 Columbia Street. Adding the traffic volumes from the generalized growth and the other developments, represents the complete background traffic conditions. Figure 4.1c displays the complete background traffic volumes. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 16

23 Figure 4.1a: Volumes Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 AM Peak Hour 222 Background (General Growth) Peak Hour Traffic Columbia Street Development Driveway Albert Street Hazel Street PM Peak Hour Columbia Street Development Driveway Albert Street Hazel Street Columbia Street, Waterloo, TIS Background (General Growth) Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Figure 4.1a Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 2

24 Figure 4.1b: Volumes Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 AM Peak Hour 222 Background Traffic (Other Developments) Peak Hour Development Driveway Columbia Street Albert Street Hazel Street PM Peak Hour Columbia Street Development Driveway Albert Street Hazel Street Columbia Street, Waterloo, TIS Background (Other Developments) Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Figure 4.1b Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 3

25 Figure 4.1c: Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 AM Peak Hour 222 Background Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Columbia Street Development Driveway Albert Street Hazel Street PM Peak Hour Columbia Street Development Driveway Albert Street Hazel Street Columbia Street, Waterloo, TIS Background Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Figure 4.1c Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 4

26 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Background Traffic Operations Based on the forecast 222 background traffic volumes, LOS analyses have been conducted using Synchro 9 to determine the AM and PM peak hour conditions for the intersections within the study area. Paradigm optimized signal timing plans where appropriate. Table 4.1 summarizes the 222 background traffic operations. All intersections and individual movements within the study operate at acceptable levels of service, volume to capacity ratios and queue lengths, except at the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street where: the eastbound through-right movement is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c = 1.1) during the PM peak hour; the westbound left movement is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c =.97) during the PM peak hour; and the northbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c =.91) during the AM peak hour and LOS F (v/c = 1.16) during the PM peak hour. Appendix B provides the detailed Synchro 9 outputs for the 222 background traffic operations. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 5

27 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 TABLE 4.1: 222 BACKGROUND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS Analysis Period Intersection Control Type MOE LEFT Direction / Movement / Approach Eastbound Westbound Northbound Southbound THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH OVERALL AM Peak Hour PM Peak Hour 1 - Columbia Street and Albert Street 2 - Columbia Street and Hazel Street 1 - Columbia Street and Albert Street 2 - Columbia Street and Hazel Street Signal Signal Signal Signal LOS B C C C C B B B C E E D C C C C C Delay V/C Queue LOS A A A A B B B B C C C C C C C C B Delay V/C Queue LOS C E E E E B B C C F F F D C C C D Delay V/C Queue LOS A A A A B B B B C C C C C C C C B Delay V/C Queue Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 6

28 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Total Traffic Operations Figure 4.2 displays the total trips expected in 222, which is the addition of the development traffic to the background traffic. Based on the forecast 222 total traffic volumes, LOS analyses have been conducted using Synchro 9 to determine the AM and PM peak hour conditions for the intersections within the study area. Table 4.1 summarizes the 222 total traffic operations. All intersections and individual movements within the study operate at acceptable levels of service, volume to capacity ratios and queue lengths, except at the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street where: the eastbound through-right movement is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c = 1.1) during the PM peak hour; the westbound left movement is forecast to operate rates at LOS E (v/c =.85) during the PM peak hour; the northbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c =.91) during the AM peak hour and LOS F (v/c = 1.17) during the PM peak hour; and the southbound left movement is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c =.94) during the PM peak hour. Appendix C provides the detailed Synchro 9 outputs for the 222 total traffic operations. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 7

29 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Figure 4.2: AM Peak Hour 222 Total Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Columbia Street Development Driveway Albert Street Hazel Street PM Peak Hour Columbia Street Development Driveway Albert Street Hazel Street Columbia Street, Waterloo, TIS Total Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Figure 4.2 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 8

30 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 TABLE 4.2: 222 TOTAL TRAFFIC OPERATIONS Analysis Period Intersection Control Type MOE LEFT Direction / Movement / Approach Eastbound Westbound Northbound Southbound THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH OVERALL AM Peak Hour PM Peak Hour 1 - Columbia Street and Albert Street 2 - Columbia Street and Hazel Street 3 - Columbia Street and Development Driveway 1 - Columbia Street and Albert Street 2 - Columbia Street and Hazel Street 3 - Columbia Street and Development Driveway Signal Signal TWSC Signal Signal TWSC LOS B C C C C B B B C E E D C C C C C Delay V/C Queue LOS A A A A B B B B C C C C C C C C B Delay V/C Queue LOS A A A A A A B B B Delay V/C Queue 1 1 LOS C E E E E B B C C F F F D C C C D Delay V/C Queue LOS A A A A B B B B C C C C C C C C B Delay V/C Queue LOS A A A A A A A A A Delay V/C Queue Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 9

31 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Remedial Measures 5.1 Signal Warrants Currently the main intersections within the study area operate under signalized control. The development driveway volumes are very low, as such Paradigm did not conduct signal warrant analysis within the study area. 5.2 Left-turn Lanes The need for turning lanes at study area intersections follows the Ministry of Transportation procedures detailed in the Geometric Design Manual 4. The Columbia Street and Albert Street, and Columbia Street and Hazel Street intersections have designated left-turn lanes present on each leg. At the intersection of Columbia Street and Development Driveway under total traffic conditions an eastbound left-turn lane was not warranted during the AM and PM peak hours. Figure 5.1 displays the left-turn lane nomographs for this intersection. 5.3 Sight Distance The development access is proposed to connect Columbia Street, approximately midway between Albert Street and Hazel Street. From the approximate location of the development driveway, sight distances will extend beyond the signalized intersections at Albert Street and Hazel Street. Paradigm anticipates that there will be minimal risk for sight distance related conflicts at the driveway location. 4 Geometric Design Manual for Ontario Highways, Ministry of Transportation of Ontario, Queen s Printer for Ontario, 1986 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 1

32 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Figure 5.1: Columbia Street and Development Driveway (Total Traffic) Eastbound Left Turn Lane Warrant Analysis PM Peak Hour AM Peak Hour Columbia Street, Waterloo Columbia Street and Development Driveway (Total Traffic) Left Turn Lane Warrant Analysis Figure 5.1 Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 11

33 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Traffic Operations Improvements Section 4, forecast several critical turning movements (LOS values of E or F). Comparing the background traffic operations to the total traffic operations reveals that the background traffic is the leading cause for reduced operations. Accordingly, the development should not be responsible for any off-site transportation network improvements. Table 4.1 summarizes the re-optimization of the Columbia Street and Albert Street signal timing and phasing under 222 total traffic operations and revealed that: the westbound left movement is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c = 1.1) during the PM peak hour; the northbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c = 1.5) during the PM peak hour; the southbound left movement is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c = 1.1) during the PM peak hour; and the improvements result in a reduction in the forecast overall delay of 2 and 8 seconds per vehicle on average, during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively. Appendix D contains the details Synchro 9 operations reports for 222 total traffic conditions with remedial measures. TABLE 5.1: 222 TOTAL TRAFFIC OPERATIONS WITH REMEDIAL MEASURES Analysis Period Intersection Control Type MOE LEFT Direction / Movement / Approach Eastbound Westbound Northbound Southbound THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH LEFT THROUGH RIGHT APPROACH OVERALL AM Peak Hour PM Peak Hour 1 - Columbia Street and Albert Street 1 - Columbia Street and Albert Street Signal Signal LOS B C C C C C C C C D D D C C C C C Delay V/C Queue LOS B C C C F B B C C F F E F C C E D Delay V/C Queue Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 12

34 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Conclusions and Recommendations 6.1 Conclusions Based on the investigations carried out, it is concluded that: currently under 216 existing conditions the following problem movements are noted: at the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street, the northbound through-right movement operates at LOS E (v/c =.85) during the PM peak hour. the development is forecast to generate 14 and 17 new trips during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively; under 222 background traffic conditions, the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street intersections is forecast to operate with the following problem movements: the eastbound through-right movement is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c = 1.1) during the PM peak hour; the westbound left movement is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c =.97) during the PM peak hour; and the northbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c =.91) during the AM peak hour and LOS F (v/c = 1.16) during the PM peak hour. under 222 total traffic conditions the intersection of Columbia Street and Albert Street is forecast to operate with the following problem movements: the eastbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c = 1.1) during the PM peak hour; the westbound left-turn movement is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c =.85) during the PM peak hour; the northbound through-right is forecast to operate at LOS E (v/c =.91) during the AM peak hour and LOS F (v/c = 1.17) during the PM peak hour; and the southbound left-turn movement is forecast to operate at LOS F (v/c =.94) during the PM peak hour. traffic control signals are not forecast to be warranted at any of the intersections within the study area; and left-turn lanes are not forecast to be warranted at any of the intersections within the study area. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 13

35 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June Recommendations Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that the development be approved for construction with no conditions related to off site. In addition, regardless of whether the development application is approved, it is recommended that the Region of Waterloo monitor traffic conditions and consider optimizing signal timing plans for the intersections of Columbia Street and Albert Street, and Columbia Street and Hazel Street for future horizons. Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Page 14

36 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Appendix A 216 Existing Traffic Operations Reports Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Appendices

37 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Appendix B 222 Background Traffic Operations Reports Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Appendices

38 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Appendix C 222 Total Traffic Operations Reports Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Appendices

39 84-88 Columbia Street West Transportation Impact Study June 217 Appendix D 222 Total Traffic with Remedial Measures Operations Reports Paradigm Transportation Solutions Limited Appendices