COLUMBIA STREET WEST FROM ERBSVILLE ROAD TO FISCHER-HALLMAN ROAD SCHEDULE 'C' MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT APPENDICES

Transcription

1 I B I G R O UP F I N A L D R A F T City of Waterloo COLUMBIA STREET WEST FROM ERBSVILLE ROAD TO FISCHER-HALLMAN ROAD SCHEDULE 'C' MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT APPENDICES APPENDIX A PUBLIC CONSULTATION May 2013

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3 NOTICE OF STUDY COMMENCEMENT Schedule C Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study and Design Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road The City of Waterloo has retained IBI Group to undertake a Schedule C Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for improvements to Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road. City and Regional traffic growth forecasts show the need and justification for operational and capacity improvements to Columbia Street West. Improvements are being developed to serve the existing and forecasted movement of motor vehicles, public transit, cyclists and pedestrians along this route. Clair Creek and associated wetlands and riparian habitats provide natural environment features within the study area. The Process The study is being conducted in accordance with the planning and design process for Schedule C projects as outlined in the Municipal Engineers Association "Municipal Class Environmental Assessment" document (June 2000, as amended 2007), as approved under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. The Class EA process includes public and agency consultation, evaluation of alternatives, assessment of potential impacts associated with the proposed improvements and development of measures to mitigate identified impacts. The first Public Information Centre for this study is planned for early November of this year, with notices to be mailed to all property owners near the study area and on the project mailing list, and posted in the Waterloo Chronicle. Upon study completion, an Environmental Study Report (ESR) will be prepared and made available for public review for a period of 30 calendar days. The public will be notified of the date, time and location of the filing of the ESR through newspaper notices and letters mailed to those in the project s mailing list. Comments Comments and information regarding this project are being collected to assist the Project Team in meeting the requirements of the Environmental Assessment Act. We are interested in hearing any comments or concerns that you may have about this study. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record. Members of the public, agencies and other interested persons are encouraged to participate actively in the study by attending consultation sessions or by contacting staff directly with information, comments or questions. Information on this project will be available on the City of Waterloo s website at For further information, to provide comment, or to be added to the project mailing list, please contact either: Mr. Chris Hodgson, P.Eng Capital Projects & Services City of Waterloo 265 Lexington Court Waterloo, ON N2J 4A8 Phone: ext. 304 Fax: christopher.hodgson@waterloo.ca Mr. Don Drackley, MCIP, RPP Senior Associate IBI Group 379 Queen Street South Kitchener, ON N2G 1W6 Phone: ext 1302 Fax: ddrackley@ibigroup.com Notice first posted June 30, 2010

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5 City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT SUMMARY REPORT NOVEMBER 30, 2010

6 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT DOCUMENT CONTROL Client: Project Name: Report Title: City of Waterloo of Waterloo Columbia Street West From Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Schedule "C" Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study & Design Public Information Centre # 1 summary report columbia street west environmental assessment IBI Reference: Version: Digital Master: Originator: Reviewer: Andreas Houlios, Environmental Planner, IBI Group Don Drackley, MCIP, RPP, MITE, IBI Group Authorization: Circulation List: History: NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 1.

7 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. INTRODUCTION NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE INFORMATION PRESENTED COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM EXTERNAL AGENCIES ENCLOSED APPENDICES Appendix A: Notice of Public Information Centre Appendix B: Newspaper Articles Appendix C: Project Mailing List Appendix D: Attendance Register Appendix E: Display Panels Appendix F: Comment Sheets Appendix G: Project Team Responses NOVEMBER 30, 2010

8 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. INTRODUCTION The City of Waterloo is undertaking a Schedule C Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for improvements to Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road in accordance with the requirements of a Schedule C undertaking in the Municipal Class EA document (June 2000 as amended in 2007). City and Regional traffic growth forecasts show the need for operational and capacity improvements to Columbia Street West to serve the existing and forecasted movement of motor vehicles, public transit, cyclists and pedestrians along this route. Clair Creek and associated wetlands and riparian habitats provide natural environment features within the study area. As part of the Municipal Class EA Process, a Public Information Centre (PIC) was held to provide an opportunity for external agencies, members of the public, and stakeholders to review detailed background information surrounding the need for improvements to this section of Columbia Street West. 2. NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE The Notice of PIC (Appendix A) was published on specific dates in the following newspaper: Wednesday November 3 and 10, 2010 Waterloo Chronicle The Notice of PIC was also posted on the City of Waterloo website ( on November 3, The website was also used to post information which was displayed at the PIC including comment sheets. The newspaper advertisements and internet posting provided the public with information regarding the study plus details surrounding the PIC. The Notice as it appeared in the above mentioned newspaper is available under Appendix B. The Notice was sent via Canada Posts unaddressed mailing system to those addresses in the N2T, N2V, and N2L postal codes. The Notice was also sent to specific contacts identified on our project mailing list developed at the outset of the study which includes the following groups (full list available in Appendix C): First Nation / Aboriginal Communities External Agencies Members of the Public Stakeholders 3. PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE The Public Information Centre (PIC) was a drop-in format where members of the project team were available to answer questions and address concerns. The session was held as follows: Date: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 Time: Drop in format (anytime) from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Location: Old School House, Kitchener/Waterloo Bilingual School NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 2

9 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 600 Erb Street East, Waterloo, Ontario Approximately 55 individuals attended the PIC (49 singed in). The attendance register is available under Appendix D. Members of the project team were available to facilitate the understanding of the Municipal Class EA process and background information presented. The project team present at the PIC consisted of the following individuals: Chris Hodgson, Project Manager, City of Waterloo Christine Koehler, Manager of Traffic Operations, City of Waterloo Steve van De Keere, Head, Transportation Expansion Program, Region of Waterloo Philip Hewitson, Director of Transportation, City of Waterloo Don Drackley, Senior Associate, Transportation, IBI Group Andy Kroess, Water Resources Engineer, IBI Group Andreas Houlios, Environmental Planner, IBI Group Dave Stephenson, Senior Wetlands Biologist, Natural Resource Solutions Inc. The materials presented at the PIC including comment forms were made available on-line on the City of Waterloo website. The last day to receive public comment on the information presented was on November 30, INFORMATION PRESENTED Display panels were organized in a manner which effectively presented information on the Columbia Street West EA. The panels were arranged in semi-circular format flowing clockwise in logical order. Comment forms were made available and members of the public were encouraged to submit completed forms to the project team (Appendix F). Comments were incorporated into the project record where concerns were addressed by the project team. The exhibits listed in Table 4-1 were on display at the PIC and can be viewed in full under Appendix E. Table 4-1: Display Boards i. Welcome Board ii. Municipal Class EA Process iii. Schedule C Class EA flowchart iv. Study Area & Background v. Clair Lake and North Clair Creek Class EA vi. Study Purpose vii. Study Objectives viii. Site Investigation and Activities ix. Existing Conditions: Traffic x. Existing Conditions: Traffic Continued xi. Existing Conditions: Natural Heritage xii. Existing Conditions: Natural Heritage Continued xiii. Existing Conditions: Natural Heritage Continued xiv. Context Sensitive Design xv. Project Consultation xvi. Next Steps NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 3

10 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Twenty four (24) comment forms were submitted during and after the PIC. Table 5-1 summarizes all comments received up to the November 30, 2010 deadline. As mentioned earlier, comment forms were also made available on the City of Waterloo s website where no additional comments were received after the November 30, 2010 deadline. Those who participated were added to the project mailing list to receive future correspondence in relation to the study. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 4

11 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Table 5-1: Public Response Number # 1 Comment Form Details Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments: A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road If houses are being built on the west end of Columbia Street West there needs to be four (4) lanes available. # 2 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments: A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Yes, traffic is solid especially in the AM and PM hours. B) The background information / data being collected Excellent receptive to impact. Consider Bennington / Chancery signal lights. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Good. E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? Seems to be. General Comments In the AM, the traffic on Erbsville from Laurelwood Drive to Erb Street is bumper to bumper. Two (2) lanes are required. Light on Erbsville at Willowood or Columbia Forest is set to allow two (2) cars out onto Erbville, wait another 60 seconds (approximately) with no traffic flow while 3 km s of traffic on Erbsville waits. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 5

12 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details # 3 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement and posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments: A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Current volume of traffic is too heavy and dangerous. B) The background information / data being collected Difficult to understand the entire exercise when presented with a very professional presentation where the amount of space required (Columbia Street Right-of-Way) was not answered during PIC #1 # 4 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments: A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Access to and from 461/463/465 Columbia Street West is already severely impaired by traffic density and speeds. When four-laned, there is concern exiting will become dangerous. B) The background information / data being collected Very Good C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Very Good D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Very Good, so far NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 6

13 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details # 5 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments: A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road AM and PM rush hour traffic on Columbia is extremely heavy. There is no break in the traffic to enable the driver to make a left hand turn from Chancery Lane to Columbia Street. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options. Would like to have a traffic light at Chancery / Columbia / Bennington intersection. This will provide a break in the traffic and provide a safe crossing for pedestrians. # 6 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments: A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road General Comments Entrance to 461 condo village is too dark, another street light is required. Also, it s almost impossible to pull out as there are no gaps in traffic especially during rush hours. Please remove the traffic calming barrier at Gatestone. It s very dangerous especially to cyclists. Present road surface needs immediate attention. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 7

14 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details # 7 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a newspaper posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments: A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Much needed. Recent centre pedestrian mid stop is a hazard, also a rounded right turn for Gatestone Boulevard is foolish and a waste of money. What is required is a repeat of 2 lane traffic on Westmount to Fischer-Hallman with a small centre boulevard. Consistency is required for all drivers. B) The background information / data being collected Very good. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Very revealing. Note: This is a main east/west corridor. D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Seems adequate. E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? If it is viewed with common sense and no roundabouts. We don t want another Ira Needles-Trussler Road fiasco. Change this as the costs are ridiculous. # 8 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a newspaper posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road. Current traffic flows increasing, difficult to gain access to Columbia Street from village in Clair Creek community. B) The background information / data being collected NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 8

15 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details Good C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Good D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Very Good E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? Looks fine, thank you # 9 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a newspaper posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Keep as a single lane but regulate traffic at Chancery/Bennington. If a signal cannot be incorporated than put in a roundabout or junction with pedestrian island. B) The background information / data being collected All good but lagging behind development (residential and retail). C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Mostly good except for the poor southbound and northbound left turns at Chancery/Bennington is misleading. The except category is the majority. D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Good E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? Appears sufficient there is only so much consultation one can do. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 9

16 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details General Comments Please allow for a safer pedestrian traffic across Columbia. Drivers have choices but children need to be encouraged to walk/cycle between Beechwood and Chancery/Laurelwood. # 10 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Bennington Gate/Columbia/Chancery intersection is not aligned, pedestrians need to cross. This is not mentioned in assessments and is a very dangerous intersection which needs improving. Accidents are a problem. B) The background information / data being collected Information on children crossing Columbia is needed, people crossing to bus station, etc. need to consider pedestrians as well as cars. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options What are the traffic control options to control speed? How would widening reduce speed? Would like to see bike lanes. D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Creek crossing of Columbia reach 2 and reach 3 has been allowed to deteriorate over the years, also a wild life corridor should be rehabilitated. Noise from widening could be a particular problem for yards closest to the road. Are there noise control options? E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? Major issues (Pedestrians, creek rehabilitation and intersections with road, noise, and realigned intersection at Bennington Gate/Chancery). # 11 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC via word of mouth and through a newspaper posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 10

17 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details Traffic volumes are high (getting higher); better pedestrian options and biking options between Cavendish & Erbsville. This is a must, it s a double death trap for people walking, running or biking along that stretch of road; even more so in the winter. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Would question the studies that as lights or roundabouts are required. Chancery/Bennington and Gatestone should be considered. # 12 Waterloo resident with residential property and safety interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a newspaper posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Please remove the bull-nose on Columbia near the firehall. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Will the speed limit be changed (lowered or raised)? E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? I have not seen a lot about this project. Please indicate your plans in the K-W Record; the Waterloo Chronicle would be a good start to lead the residents of Waterloo to all of the plans. # 13 Waterloo resident who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a newspaper posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Yes, especially sidewalks on the steep hill. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 11

18 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details General Comments Problem is that there are no sidewalks on Columbia between Cavendish and Erbsville. Also, on Erbsville at Columbia it is dangerous to try to cross the road to a sidewalk from Highland to Columbia to the other side with the amount of traffic. If you are a senior or someone with small children, you are really in danger. As you are aware, car speed on this part of the road is a concern. Will this be addressed? # 14 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement and posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road General Comments Need to provide safe access and exit from Columbia Street West. Install safety islands to replace current painted no travel zones. Provide a right turn lane into Columbia Street West for traffic approaching from the West. # 15 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road. Yes, Columbia needs to be improved. Create 4 lanes, traffic in the morning is very heavy and dangerous when turning into Columbia. Remove the gully at the west tributary of Clair creek; it is dangerous when icy or snowy. Install traffic signal at Bennington Gate. Roundabout may not be enough because of the safety of pedestrians. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options I have greater concern about safety at Columbia and Bennington. In the morning there is traffic from both Bennington and Chancery turning onto Columbia plus pedestrian and bicycle (school children) traffic crossing at that point. People may be crossing to go to the bus stop and the cyclists NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 12

19 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details may be going to Sir John A. Macdonald school. E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? The consultation is very good and helpful to learn about the program. # 16 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Gaps need to be created in the traffic during rush hour periods to allow opportunity for vehicles from side streets to enter Columbia Street. B) The background information / data being collected Traffic volumes predicted at 16, 000/day in 2010 and 17, 500 in 2031 seem unrealistic given the 2 new subdivisions set to open in comparison to existing traffic volumes and transit habits. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options This presentation did not present any traffic control options at all. E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? I do not believe that the forecasted traffic volumes are realistic. They are understated. # 17 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road The road must be widened to 4 lanes since traffic is getting far too busy with 2 lanes only. Getting rid of the curb at Gatestone would be welcomed and the island is in the totally wrong location. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 13

20 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details B) The background information / data being collected No comment except to say that it only confirms what people who travel the road already know. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options The island should have been near the entrance of the development and the corner of Fischer-Hallman and Columbia. When it would be useful for the seniors in that development. D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Don t harm flora and fauna if that can be preserved. E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? Why so slow? It needs to be done so get on it. # 18 Waterloo resident who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a newspaper posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Traffic on Columbia must be improved from existing conditions because it is next to impossible to make left turns from side streets during rush hours, e.g. Chancery Lane. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options No roundabouts please. Traffic lights at Chancery Lane / Columbia intersection would provide a break in traffic to allow for left turns from side streets. Also, advancing green light is needed at Columbia and going southbound onto Erbsville. Now it takes 3 lights before you can make a left turn on Columbia and Erbsville. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 14

21 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details # 19 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement and posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Improvements are limited to peak hour use access to Columbia is limited and often results in long delays during peak hours. Use alternate access to Columbia via Gatestone/Fischer-Hallman. Particularly during peak hours B) The background information / data being collected Information missing to understand long term trends active transit modes/transit. Is there a need for a cycling route consider off-road cycling. Integration of transit stops, pedestrian crossing requirements particularly as it relates to student movement. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Focus seems to be on signalized intersections. Roundabouts are a viable option for consideration. Turning lanes had a significant impact on west bound traffic needs to be better integrated. D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Transport of stormwater, are there opportunities to integrate a comprehensive trail network linked to existing trails. Provide alternate access points to Chancery floodplain. Incorporate opportunity for wildlife to cross roadway through valley corridor. E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? Consultation seems appropriate for project. Is the firehall a possible alternate venue for an open house? NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 15

22 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details # 20 Waterloo resident who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a newspaper posting in the Waterloo Chronicle. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Large volume, long back-ups at peak times means Erbsville required attention. Widening with turn lanes. B) The background information / data being collected Thoroughly researched. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Existing information sufficient, more options need to be presented. D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Environment needs preserving. E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? Yes General Comments Need to proceed in a timely fashion - accelerated # 21 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road. The dip near Erbsville becomes dangerous in heavy rain or ice. Columbia, especially the Western section, (Chancery-Erbsvile) is dangerous for bicycles. Columbia has the potential for carrying a lot of bicycle traffic. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 16

23 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details B) The background information / data being collected Good C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options OK D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Good E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? OK # 22 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road. There is a huge amount of traffic at certain times of the day, and turning left onto Columbia can be very difficult (and scary). Need to control traffic via lights traffic circles, middle turning lane (like on Weber between University and Columba), speed bumps, increased public transit ect. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Traffic control options were discussed with representatives, but not displayed. Information on existing traffic conditions seemed incomplete. At what time of day, which part of year etc. was data (e.g. on speed) collected? D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions What alternative solutions? This was not made clear E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? General Comments Seems good so far NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 17

24 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details Current traffic island is a good idea, as pedestrians are never given the right of way in this province. May actually need a few more (it is a long stretch of road from Fischer-Hallman to Erbsville especially closer to Sobey s. The number of accidents in the past 5 years seems low given the speed of cars, number of pedestrians crossing (there are nice walks on both sides and this should be encouraged, bicycles, cars trying to get onto Columbia. The right turn only lane on Columbia east of Fischer-Hallman needs to be right or straight, with control to ensure cars can turn right into the plaza only (so they don t butt into other traffic), or continue as right turn only with no possibility of pushy drivers going straight. I prefer the first suggestion. # 23 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Lighting needs to be improved. Traffic flow at peak times needs to be slowed to allow entry from side streets and driveways. C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options Very good D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions Great E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? General Comments Yes, but consideration must be given to entry from 461/463/465 Columbia Street West. There are 81 Homes in this subdivision. Entry from 461/463/465 is very difficult at times as there are no breaks in traffic. Poor lighting makes it hard to find the driveway at night. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 18

25 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details # 24 Waterloo resident with residential property interests who feels that Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road needs to be improved. Individual heard about the PIC through a mailed-out advertisement, newspaper posting in the Waterloo chronicle, and through Councillor Karen Scian s blog. Provided the following comments A) The need to improve road conditions on Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road The section of road in question has deteriorated and has had some patch-work repairs done over the past several years. The net result is that the road is rough in some places and can be particularly dangerous to bicyclists (such as myself) that ride along the road. The morning and afternoon volume of traffic appears to be greater than what the road can currently handle without causing a long backlog of traffic both eastbound (mornings) and westbound (evenings). Sometimes I have seen the backlog as far back in the evening as Hagey (entrance to the University campus). The backlog is often past Westmount in the evening. As such the road appears to need improvements to be able to handle larger volumes of traffic at peak times. The dip in Columbia just east of Erbsville has become treacherous at times in the winter resulting in vehicles unable to climb out of the dip due to slippery road conditions. The dip also results in small cars to briefly disappear in the valley and not seen from vehicles turning left out of Cavendish. B) The background information / data being collected The information being collected appears sufficient C) The information presented on existing transportation conditions and traffic control options The information presented during the information session on November 16 th was well laid out and easy to understand. Thank you. D) Environmental considerations in the development of alternative solutions During my discussions with the representatives at the information night, it would seem that environmental is being considered. I did not see or hear of what alternative solutions were being considered for the portion of the road improvements around the dip in the road east of Erbsville Road, although from the discussion it appeared clear that those that were involved did understand the issues in that area. E) Is the level of consultation planned on this project enough? If not what additional methods of consultation would you like? General Comments Yes. I look forward to the next information night My particular concerns for the road improvement are as follows: The growth of the west side of Waterloo - west of Erbsville - has resulted in an increase in pedestrian (and bicyclist) traffic along this road. There is definitely a need for the extension of the sidewalk(s) along Columbia Street between Cavendish and Erbsville. Walking or biking along this portion of the NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 19

26 I B I G R O UP S U M M A R Y R E P O R T City of Waterloo PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SUMMARY REPORT COLUMBIA STREET WEST ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Number Comment Form Details road is particularly dangerous since there is currently no option but to walk along the shoulders of the road. For the same reasons as above, there is a need for bike lanes along this portion of Columbia. My daughters - ages 17, 20, and 22 - and my wife are all unwilling to ride along the road for fear of their safety. Two of my daughters attend University of Waterloo and regularly ride their bikes to the school and currently choose to ride on the sidewalks. At many times during the day, in particular during the "rush" times, it is difficult to make left turns out of Cavendish and Chancery (and the other side streets) to go east on Columbia. Sometimes I have (and I have seen many others) given up trying to turn left and turn right instead and go around the block (right on Erbsville, right on Laurelwood, and over to Fisher-Hallman). It would be helpful to have some remedy to help drivers turn left. For example, a lane in the middle - a receiving lane - so that left turns could be made out of the side streets when there is an appropriate gap and then proceed to enter/merge with the traffic when able. I.e. we would not have to wait for a gap to occur in both directions simultaneously. Noise: An increase in traffic will bring a increase in road noise. Raising the dip will also increase the distance that the road noise will travel along the valley/marshland and hence could have an adverse affect on the wildlife in the area? It will also increase the noise heard in my backyard :-( I'm not sure if anything can be done, but consideration of reducing road noise would be appreciated. Light: I do not feel there is a need for any additional lighting along this portion of the road. There is already too much light pollution in the city. If street lights are installed, please use lights that direct and restrict the light downward. 6. COMMENTS FROM EXTERNAL AGENCIES No comments were received from external agencies regarding the PIC, materials used, and the information presented. NOVEMBER 30, 2010 Page 20

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29 NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE COLUMBIA STREET WEST FROM ERBSVILLE ROAD TO FISCHER-HALLMAN ROAD SCHEDULE C MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT STUDY & DESIGN The City of Waterloo has retained IBI Group to undertake a Schedule C Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for improvements to Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road. City and Regional traffic growth forecasts show the need for operational and capacity improvements to Columbia Street West to serve the existing and forecasted movement of motor vehicles, public transit, cyclists and pedestrians along this route. Clair Creek and associated wetlands and riparian habitats provide natural environment features within the study area. The project limits are shown on the following map. The first of three planned Public Information Centres will be held as follows. DATE: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 TIME: Drop In Anytime Between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM PLACE: Old School House, Kitchener/Waterloo Bilingual School, 600 Erb Street, Waterloo The public is encouraged to attend to learn more about the EA purpose and process and City of Waterloo and Region of Waterloo transportation plans, and to discuss existing traffic conditions along the section of Columbia Street West being studied, existing natural environment conditions in and around the project limits, the roadway design approach to be used and opportunities for further public consultation. Also watch for roadside signs of this Public Information Centre. Individuals and groups already on the project mailing list are being mailed this Public Information Centre notice. If you require additional information about the study or this upcoming session, please contact either: Mr. Chris Hodgson, P.Eng Capital Projects & Services City of Waterloo 265 Lexington Court Waterloo, ON N2J 4A8 Phone: ext. 304, Fax: christopher.hodgson@waterloo.ca Notice first posted November 3, 2010 Mr. Don Drackley, MCIP, RPP, MITE Senior Associate IBI Group 379 Queen Street South, Kitchener, ON N2G 1W6 Phone: (519) Fax: (519) ddrackley@ibigroup.com

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37 IBI Group Project Mailing List Columbia Street EA from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road FIRST NATIONS / ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Environmental Unit Re: Environmental Assessment Coordination Indian and Northern Affairs Canada 25 St. Clair Ave. East, 8th Floor Toronto, ON M4T 1M2 Ms. Linda MacWilliams Regional Manager Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Lands and ART Lands and Trust Services 25 St. Clair Ave. East, 8th Floor Toronto, ON M4T 1M Linda.MacWilliams@inac-ainc.gc.ca Mr. Sean Darcy Research Manager Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Assessment and Historical Research Directorate 10 Wellington Street, Room 1310 Gatineau, QU, K1A 0H sean.darcy@ainc-inac.gc.ca Mr. Don Boswell Senior Claims Analyst Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Ontario Research Team 10 Wellington Street, Room 1310 Gatineau, QU, K1A 0H boswelld@inac.gc.ca Mr. Josee Beauregard Litigation Team Leader Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Litigation Management and Resolution Branch 10 Wellington Street, 25 Eddie 1430 Gatineau, QU K1A 0H josee.beauregard@ainc-inac.gc.ca Mr. Jeffrey Betker Senior Policy Analyst Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Office of the Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-status Indians 66 Slater Street, Room 1218 Ottawa, ON K1A 0H jeffrey.betker@inac.gc.ca Mr. David Pickles Team Lead Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs 160 Bloor Street East, 9th Floor Toronto, ON M7A 2E davidpickles@ontario.ca Ms. Heather Levecque Manager Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs, Consultation Unit William Montour Chief Six Nations of the Grand River 160 Bloor Street East, 9th Floor Toronto, ON M7A 2E Chiefswood Road P.O. Box 5000 Oshweken, ON N0A 1M Heather.Levecque@ontario.ca Mr. Paul General Mr. Tom Deer Six Nations of the Grand River, Six Nations Eco- Centre Confederacy Council Secretary Haudenosaunee Resource Centre 1695 Chiefswood Road P.O. Box 5000 Oshweken, ON N0A 1M Sixth Line RR2 Oshweken, ON N0A 1M0 Mr. Leroy Hill Secretary Haudenosaunee Resource Centre P.O. Box 812 Oshweken, ON N0A 1M0 Ms. Margaret Sault Director, Lands and membership Mississauga's of the New Credit First Nation 2789 Mississauga Road, RR #6 Hagersville, ON N0A 1H0 Métis Nation of Ontario 500 Old Patrick Street Unit 3 Ottawa, ON K1N 9G November 10, 2010

38 IBI Group Project Mailing List Columbia Street EA from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road FEDERAL AGENCIES Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Mr. Dave Bell Senior Program Officer Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency, Ontario Regional Office 55 St. Clair Avenue East, Room 907 Toronto, ON M4T 1M Mr. Dale McKeague Director, Lands and membership Canadian Transportation Agency, Industry Determinations Analysis Directorate 15 Eddy Street Gatineau QC K1A 0N Mr. Rob Dobos Manager Environment Canada, Environmental Assessment and Federal Programs 867 Lakeshore Road Burlington, ON L7R 4A Ms. Cindy Mitton-Wilkie Senior Biologist Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Southern Ontario District Office 3027 Harvester Road, Suite 304. P.O. Box Burlington, ON L7R 4K Mr. Marty Risen A/Regional Manager, Environment and Engineering Transport Canada, Ontario Region 4900 Younge Street, North York, ON M2N 6A Mr. Barry Putt Regional Manager, Navigable Waters Protection Program Transport Canada, Ontario Region 100 Front Street S., 1st Floor Sarnia, ON N7T 2M4 PROVINCIAL AGENCIES Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Manager EA and Approvals Branch, West Central Region Floor 12A, 2 St. Clair Avenue West Toronto, ON M4V 1L Ms. Dolly Goyette District Manager Ministry of the Environment, West-Central Region 4th Floor, 1 Stone Road West Toronto, ON N1G 4Y Ms. Angela Amodeo EA Evaluator Ministry of the Environment, West-Central Region 12th Floor, 119 King Street West Hamilton, ON L8P 4Y angela.amodeo@ene.gov.on.ca Mr. Bill Bardswick Director Ministry of the Environment, West-Central Region 12th Floor, 119 King Street West Hamilton, ON L8P 4Y Mr. Barry Duff APEP Supervisor Ministry of the Environment, West-Central Region 12th Floor, 119 King Street West Hamilton, ON L8P 4Y7 Ms. Jennifer Moulton EA & Planning Coordinator Ministry of the Environment, West-Central Region 12th Floor, 119 King Street West Hamilton, ON L8P 4Y7 Ms. Barbara Slattery Environmental Resource Planner/EA Ministry of the Environment, West-Central Region, Air, Pesticides and Environmental Planning 12th Floor, 119 King Street West Hamilton, ON L8P 4Y7 barb.slattery@ontario.ca November 10, 2010

39 IBI Group Project Mailing List Columbia Street EA from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Mr. Michael Harrison Environmental Planner Ministry of the Environment, EA and Approvals Branch Floor 12A, 2 St. Clair Avenue West Toronto, ON M4V 1L5 Ms. Melanie Smith Project Officer Ministry of the Environment, EA Project Coordination Section, West Central Region Floor 12A, 2 St. Clair Avenue West Toronto, ON M4V 1L5 Ms. Meredith Beresford Director Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing, Provincial Planning Services Branch 14th Floor, 777 Bay Street Toronto, ON M3G 2E5 Mr. George Booth Lands & Waters Technical Specialist Ministry of Natural Resources, Guelph District Office 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y Mr. David Cooper Manager Environmental and Land Use Policy Branch, Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2 Mr. Ken Cornelisse Water Resources Coordinator Ministry of Natural Resources, Guelph District Office 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2 Ms. Heather Marleau District Planner Ministry of Natural Resources, Guelph District Office 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2 Mr. Al Murray Area Biologist Ministry of Natural Resources, Guelph District Office 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2 Ms. Craig Selby District Manager Ministry of Natural Resources, Guelph District Office 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2 Mr. Mike Stone District Planner Ministry of Natural Resources, Guelph District Office 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2 Mr. Art Timmerman Fish & Wildlife Biologist Ministry of Natural Resources, Guelph District Office 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2 Mr. Alan Sawyer Environmental Assessment Facilitator Ontario Realty Corporation 1 Stone Road West Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2 November 10, 2010

40 IBI Group Project Mailing List Columbia Street EA from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road REGION OF WATERLOO Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Ms. Lucille Bish Region of Waterloo, Heritage Planning Advisory Committee 8th Floor, 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J Mr. John Cicuttin Manager, Transportation Planning Region of Waterloo, Planning, Housing and Community Services 8th Floor, 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J Mr. Eric Gillespie Director Region of Waterloo, Transit Services 250 Strasburg Road Kitchener, ON N2E 3M x7270 Mr. Chris Gosselin Region of Waterloo, Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee 8th Floor, 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J Mr. John Hammer Director Region of Waterloo, Transportation Division 7th Floor, 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J Mr. Eric Hodgins Manager Region of Waterloo, Water Resources Protection 7th Floor, 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J Ms. Nancy Kodousek Director Region of Waterloo, Water Services 7th Floor, 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J Mr. John Prno Director Region of Waterloo, Emergency Medical Services Division 120 Maple Grove Road Cambridge ON, N3H 3R x8710 Mr. Graham Vincent Director Region of Waterloo, Transportation Planning 8th Floor, 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J Mr. Kevin Dolishny Senior Project Engineer Region of Waterloo 7th Floor, 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J x3862 CITY OF WATERLOO Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Ms. Brenda Halloran Mayor City of Waterloo Ms. Karen Scian City Councillor City of Waterloo Mr. Scott Witmer City Councillor City of Waterloo Mr. Jeff Henry City Councillor City of Waterloo P.O. Box 337, 100 Regina Street S. Waterloo ON N2J 4A8 3rd Floor, Waterloo City Centre 100 Regina Street Waterloo, ON N2J 4A8 3rd Floor, Waterloo City Centre 100 Regina Street Waterloo, ON N2J 4A8 3rd Floor, Waterloo City Centre 100 Regina Street Waterloo, ON N2J 4A SEND Mr. Sean Strickland Regional Councillor Region of Waterloo 150 Frederick Street Kitchener, ON N2G 4J x Mr. Ron Ormson Director, Engineering & Construction City of Waterloo 2nd Floor, Waterloo City Centre 100 Regina Street South Waterloo, ON N2J 4A Mr. Tim Anderson Chief Administration Officer City of Waterloo 3rd Floor, Waterloo City Centre 100 Regina Street Waterloo, ON N2J 4A Mr. Mark Dykstra Director, Environment & Park Services City of Waterloo Service Centre 265 Lexington Court Waterloo ON N2J 4A November 10, 2010

41 IBI Group Project Mailing List Columbia Street EA from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Mr. Bill Garibaldi Acting General Manager City of Waterloo Services Centre 265 Lexington Court Waterloo ON N2J 4A Mr. Phil Hewitson Director, Transportation City of Waterloo Service Centre 265 Lexington Court Waterloo ON N2J 4A Ms. Christine Koehler Project Manager, Traffic City of Waterloo Service Centre 265 Lexington Court Waterloo ON N2J 4A Mr. Sunda Siva Team Leader City of Waterloo Service Centre 265 Lexington Court Waterloo ON N2J 4A CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Ms. Nancy Davy Manager of Planning Grand River Conservation Authority P.O. Box 729, 400 Clyde Road Cambridge, ON N1R 5W Ms. Lisa Beth Bulford Resource Planner Grand River Conservation Authority P.O. Box 729, 400 Clyde Road Cambridge, ON N1R 5W x2292 Ms. Lorrie Minshall Source Protection Program Director Grand River Conservation Authority P.O. Box 729, 400 Clyde Road Cambridge, ON N1R 5W Mr. Joe Farwell Assistant CAO, Resource Management Grand River Conservation Authority P.O. Box 729, 400 Clyde Road Cambridge, ON N1R 5W EMERGENCY SERVICES Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Region of Waterloo Mr. Scott Diefenbaker Staff Sergeant, Traffic Services Supervisor Waterloo Regional Police Service P.O. Box 3070, 200 Maple Grove Rd. Cambridge, ON N3H 5M x Mr. Matthew Torigian Chief Waterloo Regional Police Service P.O. Box 3070, 200 Maple Grove Rd. Cambridge, ON N3H 5M x Mr. Fred Gregory Sergeant Waterloo Regional Police Service Mr. Brian Larkin Inspector Waterloo Regional Police Service City of Waterloo P.O. Box 3070, 200 Maple Grove Rd. Cambridge, ON N3H 5M1 P.O. Box 3070, 200 Maple Grove Rd. Cambridge, ON N3H 5M Mr. Larry Brassard Acting General Manager, Fire Chief Protective Services 470 Columbia Street West Waterloo, ON x Ms. Rosemary Shantz Waterloo Fire Department 470 Columbia Street West Waterloo, ON November 10, 2010

42 IBI Group Project Mailing List Columbia Street EA from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road SCHOOLS Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Ms. Leanore Csordas Cooperative Transportation Services, Waterloo Region District School Board 51 Ardelt Ave Kitchener, ON N2C 2R x Ms. Debby Gravenor Cooperative Transportation Services, Waterloo Region District School Board 51 Ardelt Ave Kitchener, ON N2C 2R Mr. Dave Bennett Senior Manager of Facility Services Waterloo Catholic District School Board Unit A, 35 Weber Street West Kitchener, ON N2H 3Z Mr. Fred Bittner Operations Supervisor Waterloo Catholic District School Board Unit A, 35 Weber Street West Kitchener, ON N2H 3Z x Ms. Wendy Braum Principal Laurelwood Public School 460 Brentcliffe Drive Waterloo, ON N2T 2R8 Ms. Olga Kalyniak Program Coordinator KW Community String School 633 Columbia Blvd Forest Waterloo ON, N2T 2V3 Mr. Chris Smith Manager of Transportation Waterloo Region District School Board, Planning Department P.O. Box 68, 51 Ardelt Avenue Kitchener, ON N2C 2R x STAKEHOLDERS Interest Groups Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Mr. Graham Buck President K-W Field Naturalists 317 Highland Road East Kitchener, ON N2M 3W Ms. Narina Nagra Volunteer Coordinator University of Waterloo, Waterloo public Interest Research Group 200 University Ave West Waterloo, ON N2L 3G Mr. Doug Letson Walter Bean Grand River Community Trails Corporation, Marsland Centre 20 Erb Street West, 11th Floor Waterloo ON N2L 1T Ms. Karen Moyer Project Manager Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee 265 Lexington Court Waterloo ON N2J 4A Karen Ms. Pamela Albrecht Inclusion Coordinator Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC) 200 King St. W. P.O. Box th Floor Kitchener, ON N2G 4G Ms. Denise McGoldrick Project Manager Waterloo Citizens Environmental Advisory Committee (WCEAC) 265 Lexington Court Waterloo ON N2J 4A November 10, 2010

43 IBI Group Project Mailing List Columbia Street EA from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Mr. Tim Osland Waterloo Community Council 529 Havendale Cres. Waterloo, ON N2T 2T3 Mr. Wayne Weiberg President Waterloo Horticultural Society 272 Lourdes Street Waterloo, ON N2L 1P3 Ms. Marietta Gassewitz Co-Administrator The Student and Community 204 Mayfield Ave Waterloo, ON N2J 3S5 Mr. Rolly Barrett Columbia Street West Waterloo, ON N2T 2P5 Utilities Mr., David Pitchforth Project Supervisor Allstream, OSP Network Implementation 50 Worcester Road Etobicoke, ON M9W 5X Mr. Michael Kuntz Construction Coordinator Atria Networks Inc. P.O. Box 64, 301 Victoria Street S. Kitchener, ON N2G 3W x Mr. John Stephens Atria Networks Inc. P.O. Box 64, 301 Victoria Street South Kitchener, ON N2G 3W9 Mr. Vince Commisso Bell Canada, Access Network Provisioning, Waterloo-Cambridge Area 575 Riverbend Drive, 2nd Floor Kitchener, ON N2K 3S Mr. Kirk Roberts Bell Canada, Access Network Provisioning, Kitchener Area 575 Riverbend Drive, 2nd Floor Kitchener, ON N2K 3S Mr. Daniel Steffler Bell Canada, Access Network Provisioning, Kitchener Area 575 Riverbend Drive, 2nd Floor Kitchener, ON N2K 3S Ms. Sue Thompson Access Network Provisioning 575 Riverbend Drive, 2nd Floor Kitchener, ON N2K 3S3 Mr. Ken Elliott Group Telecom Suite 700, 20 Bay Street Toronto ON, M5J 2N8 Mr. Greg Wall Senior Real Estate Coordinator Hydro One Network 15th Floor, 483 Bay Street Toronto ON, N5G 2P5 Ms. Clara Clairman Ontario Power Generation Inc., Environmental Services & Approvals 700 University Ave. H6F27 Toronto, ON M5G 1X6 Mr. Richard Bolliger Rogers Cablesystems Inc., Outside Plant Engineering P.O. Box 488, 85 Grand Crest Kitchener, ON N2G 4A x Mr. Greg Brown Rogers Cablesystems Inc., Outside Plant Engineering P.O. Box 488, 85 Grand Crest Kitchener, ON N2G 4A x November 10, 2010

44 IBI Group Project Mailing List Columbia Street EA from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road Ms. Nina Gillingham Rogers Cablesystems Inc. P.O. Box 488, 85 Grand Crest Kitchener, ON N2G 4A x Mr. Walter Horn System Planner P.O. Box 488, 85 Grand Crest Kitchener, ON N2G 4A8 Mr. Cliff Kennel Rogers Cablesystems Inc., Outside Plant Engineering P.O. Box 488, 85 Grand Crest Kitchener, ON N2G 4A8 Mr. Robert Quick Telus 82 Locust Street Kitchener, ON N2H 1W9 Mr. Ken Sleeper Utilities Service Manager Union Gas Ltd. 10 Surrey Street East Guelph, ON N1H 3P Mr. Rick Bigelow Utilities Service Manager Union Gas Ltd. P.O. Box 340, 603 Kumpf Drive Waterloo, ON N2V 1K Ms. Gwen Keep Acting Mapping Team Leader Union Gas Ltd. P.O. Box 340, 603 Kumpf Drive Waterloo, ON N2V 1K3 Mr. Kevin Schimus Union Gas Ltd. P.O. Box 340, 603 Kumpf Drive Waterloo, ON N2V 1K Mr. Walter Seminiuk Tech Manager Union Gas Ltd., Waterloo-Bratford Area P.O. Box 340, 603 Kumpf Drive Waterloo, ON N2V 1K Mr. Max Guerrero Engineering Technician Waterloo-North Hydro Inc. P.O. Box 640, 300 Northfield Drive Mr. Herb Haller VP of Engineering and Stations Waterloo-North Hydro Inc. P.O. Box 640, 300 Northfield Drive Mr. Richard Thomson Engineering Technician Waterloo-North Hydro Inc. P.O. Box 640, 300 Northfield Drive Mr. Gerard Roche Waterloo-North Hydro Inc. P.O. Box 640, 300 Northfield Drive x226 GENERAL PUBLIC Contact Name Contact Title Company Name Mailing Address Phone Number Fax Number Address Notes Mr. Don Drackley 32 Drew Ave. Cambridge, ON N1S 3R5 Mr. Venkat Kondam 620 Winterberry Ave. Waterloo, ON N2V 2W4 Mr. Bruce Chapman Columbia St. W Waterloo, ON N2T 2P5 jasper0803@primus.ca Mr. and Ms John and Carol Heibein 369 Ash Tree Place Waterloo, ON N2T 1R j.c.heibein@gmail.com Mr. James Parker 578 Clair Creek Blvd. Waterloo, ON N2T 2C2 jhparker@rogers.com November 10, 2010

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53 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Public Information Centre Kitchener-Waterloo Bilingual School, 600 Erb Street November 16, :00 8:00 pm WELCOME Please Sign In and Complete a Comment Sheet Project Team members are available to discuss the project with you. Please feel free to ask questions. Visit us at:

54 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Process The Purpose of the Environmental Assessment Act the betterment of the people of the whole or any part of Ontario by providing for the protection, conservation and wise management in Ontario of the environment What is the Environmental Assessment Process and why is it used? An approved planning and design process under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act for municipal projects such as road widenings. It provides: A mechanism for proponents to fulfill their responsibilities to the public for the provision of municipal services in an efficient, timely, economic and environmentally responsible manner; A consistent, streamlined and easily understood process for planning and implementing infrastructure projects; The flexibility to tailor the planning process to a specific project taking into account the environmental setting, local public interests and unique project requirements; and A decision making process used to promote good environmental planning by assessing the potential benefits of certain activities on the environment before development or building takes place.

55 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Schedule C Municipal Class EA Process Project Schedule Public Consultation Class EA Initiated Notice of Study Commencement June 21, 2010 Project introduction, background and EA process, objectives, existing conditions Municipal Class EA Process PHASE 1: Problem or Opportunity Public Information Centre #1 November 16, 2010 WE ARE HERE PHASE 2: Alternative Concept Solutions Public Information Centre #2 Winter/Spring 2011 PHASE 3: Alternative Design Concepts for the Preferred Solution Public Information Centre #3 Summer, 2011 PHASE 4: Environmental Study Report (ESR) Notice of Study Completion 30 Day Review Period PHASE 5: Implementation

56 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Study Area & Background Columbia Street West from Erbsville Road to Fischer-Hallman Road is classified as a 2-lane City of Waterloo Arterial Road. Fischer-Hallman Road and Erbsville Road are Regional roads under the jurisdiction of the Region of Waterloo. Columbia Street West crosses two stream corridors; Clair Creek north branch and a tributary of Clair Creek. Lands adjacent to the western creek crossing are designated as Provincially Significant Wetland. Columbia Street West provides major connections to access Uptown Waterloo, City of Kitchener and Highway 85 (Conestoga Expressway). It also links the growing west side of Waterloo with key existing and future developments including: The Waterloo Public Library and YMCA recreational facility; Research and Technology Park expansion (University of Waterloo); Plaza at Columbia Street West/Fischer- Hallman Road; and Improvements to Fischer Hallman Road and Erbsville Road as identified in the Regional Transportation Master Plan. Being an arterial class road and the only direct east-west corridor in the city, it is expected that this road will experience increased traffic growth. According to the City s Transportation Master Plan, a primary focus of transportation corridors is road safety for alternative forms of transportation (transit, cycling, walking).

57 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment In 2005, the Clair Lake Park and North Clair Creek Class EA Study was completed. It assessed existing conditions related to the stream reaches in the vicinity of Columbia Street (Reaches 1, 2 and 3 shown below) and recommended water quality and flood control improvements to the creek valley system. The Study was undertaken to assess the flood control reaches, the capacity, potential configuration of Clair Lake and address the nitrification and sedimentation of the creek and lake system. Recommendations specific to the two Columbia St. Crossings: Reach 1: Restore the Valley Floor Clair Lake and North Clair Creek Class EA This will provide greater environmental benefits through enhanced vegetation and directly address the problem of existing erosion, which will also improve public safety. Reaches 2 and 3: Selective Restoration It was established that minimal disruption to existing vegetation and the preservation of mature trees is very important. This will also minimize any disruption in the area.

58 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Study Purpose The City of Waterloo is planned to grow in population to around 150,000 people over the next two decades. The westside of the city will see much of this growth. The purpose of this study is to review opportunities to improve and enhance Columbia Street in terms of both the roadway and the natural environments. Improvements to the corridor are identified in the City s 10 year capital program which aligns strategically with the recommendations of both the Regional and City Transportation Master Plans as shown on this map. Construction is currently planned for 2014 / Recommended Roadway/Transit Improvements in the City of Waterloo, Region of Waterloo Transportation Master Plan Funding for this project is primarily derived through Development Charges and not municipal taxes.

59 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Study Objectives Create an improved roadway for all modes of transportation based on the Complete Streets approach as advocated through the City s Transportation Master Plan; Upgrade and improve City water and storm infrastructure; Enhance the two creek crossings - Clair Creek north branch and Clair Creek tributary; Improve the riparian corridor of Clair Creek immediately beside the creek crossings to enhance terrestrial habitat and wildlife movement; Improve instream water quality through instream and shoreline rehabilitation within the creek adjacent to Columbia Street West; Improve instream aquatic habitat to promote fish habitat; and Identify and protect wetland function and restore where feasible.

60 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Site Investigation and Activities Transportation Detailed Topographical Survey; Detailed Geotechnical Investigation; 8 hour traffic, pedestrian, and cycling counts at 2 signalized intersections and 4 unsignalized intersections; Assess policies and warrants for adding traffic signals, stop signs and roundabouts; Review of 5 year Collision history; Traffic speed survey and review; Existing traffic Level of Service (LOS) analysis; Noise Assessment Study in accordance with Region guidelines; and Conduct all utility investigation associated with the corridor. Environmental Delineate study area including floodplain, Clair Creek and tributary to Clair Creek and vegetation; Identify existing erosion and flooding locations; Assessment of erosion potential including contributing factors; Dimensions of creek, crossings, weirs or other hydro technical structures; Assess creek morphology; Assess ecological habitat; Identify existing and potential corridor linkages Identify locations of baseflow contributions and hydroperiods within wetlands; Species At Risk inventory; and Assessment of groundwater flow system. Completed Tasks

61 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Existing Conditions: Traffic Daily Traffic Volume 2009: 13, : 16, : 17, th Percentile Speed: 2010 Westbound: 71 kph 2010 Eastbound : 76 kph Posted Speed: 60 kph 85 th Percentile is the speed that 85% of vehicles travel at or below, and 15% travel above. On Columbia St. W it is at least 10 kph over the limit # of reported collisions provided by Region of Waterloo Police Services

62 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Traffic Level of Service / Critical Movements: Existing Conditions: Traffic Good in AM period. Poor westbound left turn in PM period. Good except for poor southbound left turns. Good except for poor southbound and northbound left turns. Good except for poor southbound left turns in AM and Poor southbound right turns in PM period. Good in AM period. Poor westbound thru movement in PM period. How do we decide where to install traffic signals? By using the Traffic Signal Warrant methodology presented in Ontario Traffic Manual Book 12 as required by the Region of Waterloo. Signal warrants are based on: 1. Vehicular Volumes 2. Delays to Cross Traffic 3. Collision Experience 4. Pedestrian Volumes Plus professional experience and judgment Conclusion: Based on existing conditions, traffic at Cavendish Dr., Chancery Lane /Bennington Gate and Gatestone Blvd. does not warrant traffic signal control.

63 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Existing Conditions: Natural Heritage Breeding Bird Survey 35 species observed Ecological Land Classification Sunfish Lake Laurel Creek Provincially Significant Wetland Complex 17 Vegetation Communities, dominated by swamp Vascular Flora Survey 121 plants identified Locally significant species: Black walnut, soft willow-herb Wildlife Survey Incidental observations Locally significant species: American goldfinch, American kestrel, Baltimore oriole, belted kingfisher, blackcapped chickadee, black-crowned night-heron, Cooper's hawk, eastern kingbird, gray catbird, ovenbird, red breasted nuthatch, ruby-throated hummingbird, spotted sandpiper, swamp sparrow, and turkey vulture. Provincially vulnerable species: black-crowned night-heron

64 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Existing Conditions: Natural Heritage Fish Habitat Mapping and Species Composition Electrofishing in Clair Creek showed the following species are present: creek chub, common shiner, fathead minnow, pumpkinseed, rosy red minnow, western blacknose dace, and white sucker. No fish in western tributary Warm water creek Western Blacknose Dace

65 Columbia Street West Class Environmental Assessment Road mortality surveys Only one mortality (green frog) in 10 surveys Snake hibernacula surveys No hibernacula found Snake cover board surveys Existing Conditions: Natural Heritage Herpetofaunal Surveys Completed in 2010 by Dougan & Associates Ecological Consultants Evening amphibian call surveys Low diversity and abundance of herpetofauna in habitats adjacent to Columbia Street. Many anurans calling from Feature 7. No snakes observed. Population of snakes adjacent to Columbia Street is low or non-existent. Salamander vernal pool breeding habitat surveys No vernal pools observed Background Review Significant species: eastern ribbonsnake, Jefferson X blue-spotted salamander, milksnake, snapping turtle. Relevant background documents have been reviewed and the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Species at Risk data is forthcoming.