HomeMy WebLinkAboutINS-12-010 - Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF)REPORT TO:
Finance and Corporate Services Committee
DATE OF MEETING:
January 9, 2012
SUBMITTED BY:
Pauline Houston, Deputy CAO, Infrastructure Services
Jeff Willmer, Deputy CAO, Community Services
PREPARED BY:
Dan Ritz, Supervisor of Design and Development
Jim Witmer, Director of Operations
WARD(S) INVOLVED:
All
DATE OF REPORT:
December 22, 2011
REPORT NO.:
INS-12-010
SUBJECT: LEAF FUNDS FOR PARK & TRAIL PROJECTS
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) grant program be discontinued
effective immediately; and,
That remaining uncommitted funding from the Local Environmental Action Fund
(LEAF) be utilized to fund portions of 2012 - 2015 park & trail capital projects as
follows:
$1,100,000 for Emerald Ash Borer Impact on Street Trees
$550,000 for Huron Natural Conservation & Development
$360,000 for Victoria Park Strategic Plan Phase 2
$600,000 for McLennan Park Development
$100,000 for Walter Bean Trail Completion
$750,000 for Community Trails; and further,
That staff be directed to review funding options for 2015 and beyond as part of the
2013 budget process.
BACKGROUND:
On November 17, 2011 during special Finance & Corporate Services Committee meeting
related to the 2012-2021 Capital Budget, staff was directed to report back on the feasibility of
supporting park and trail deficits identified in Issue Paper C11 – Park & Urban Forestry Strategic
Plans, utilizing Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) and to provide options.
REPORT:
The goal of Kitchener's LEAF program is to reduce or repair our city's impact on the
environment; and to enhance our ability to live sustainably into the future.
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LEAF Objectives
Projects or programs funded by LEAF must meet the following criteria:
1. Contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases produced by the city's own operations
and/or the community at large.
2. Increase public awareness of the environmental impact of the actions of municipal
governments, communities, businesses, families and/or individuals, and promote
changed behaviour at this local level.
3. Provide a long-term, sustainable benefit to Kitchener.
LEAF funded projects and programs must also accomplish one or more of the following criteria:
4. Contribute to enhanced local air quality.
5. Result in reduced energy use, increased energy efficiency, increased use of alternative
energy sources.
6. Increase city-ownership of significant natural lands where other techniques for
acquisition have not succeeded.
7. Provide capital enhancements to city-owned and city-managed natural lands over and
above what would occur as part of normal city procedures.
8. Facilitate capital improvements that will make existing communities more complete and
residents of those communities less dependant on the automobile.
The LEAF grant program has been run for the past three years. While there have been a
reasonable number of applications the number of successful applications has been somewhat
limited. More concerning is that, despite promotional efforts to raise awareness of the LEAF
grant opportunity, the proposals have not been nearly as transformational as was hoped when
the program was established.
In addition, the use of the City’s grant to leverage funding from other sources has not been as
successful as intended. On this basis the significant commitment of staff and community
resources required to run the grant program can no longer be justified and we recommend
discontinuing the program.
During 2012 budget discussions on November 17, 2011, staff introduced a number of unfunded
park & trail projects within issue paper C11. Through direction by Council, staff has identified
two options to address these funding deficits as follows:
A. LEAF Supported Option for Park & Trail Capital Projects
(Short tem (2012-2015) relief utilizing uncommitted LEAF funding)
B. Sustainable TAX Supported Option for Park & Trail Capital Projects
(Long term (2012-2021) funding through capital investment)
A. LEAF Supported Option for Park & Trail Capital Projects
Staff is recommending that unfunded projects related to park & street trees and community trails
be considered for unallocated LEAF balance. These projects have a direct impact on our local
environment and quality of life, in keeping with the LEAF objectives. Trees for example,
contribute to local air quality and trails reduce our dependency on the automobile, reducing
energy and creating more complete communities.
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LEAF balance is projected to be approximately $2.5M beginning in 2012, growing to over $3.5M
by 2016 as result of paybacks from the CMF Solar Roof project and interest income. Table 1
below proposes funding to support a variety of tree and trail projects throughout 2012-2015.
Table 1 – LEAF Supported Projects (2012-2015)
TOTAL
Emerald Ash Huron McLennanWalter Bean Community
Victoria Park Annual LEAF
BorerNatural Area ParkTrailTrails
Allocation
LEAF CRITERIA
(refer to LEAF objectives noted above)
1,2,3,4,5,7 1,2,3,4,5,7,8 1,2,3,4,7,8 1,2,3,4,7,8 1,2,3,5,7,8 1,2,3,5,7,8
LEAF SUPPORTED CONTRIBUTION
2012 350,000
100,000 250,000
2013 950,000
250,000 150,000 300,000 250,000
2014 1,660,000
350,000 400,000 360,000 300,000 250,000
2015 500,000
500,000
Total $3,460,000
1,100,000 550,000 360,000 600,000 100,000 750,000
B. Sustainable TAX Supported Option for Park & Trail Capital Projects
A second option to support park & trail capital projects would be from capital out of current (C/C)
throughout the entire ten-year capital forecast. Increases to the annual tax base and the
approximate overall tax base percentage increase are shown in Table 2 below. A Sustainable
tax supported option would provide long term funding for all park & trail capital projects over the
10-year capital forecast. LEAF funding would not be utilized in the sustainable tax supported
option and the current program could continue in its present form.
Table 2 – Sustainable TAX Supported Projects (2012-2021)
Huron Annual Tax
EmeraldVictoriaMcLennanWalter Bean Community
Natural(C/C)Base %
Ash Borer ParkParkTrailTrails
Area Allocation Change
SUSTAINABLE TAX SUPPORTED CONTRIBUTION
2012 350,000 0.35%
100,000 250,000
2013 950,000 0.60%
250,000 150,000 300,000 250,000
2014 1,660,000 0.71%
350,000 400,000 360,000 300,000 250,000
2015 1,810,000 0.15%
500,000 400,000 360,000 300,000 250,000
2016 2,010,000 0.20%
700,000 400,000 360,000 300,000 250,000
2017 2,210,000 0.20%
1,000,000 400,000 360,000 200,000 250,000
2018 2,110,000 - 0.10%
900,000 400,000 360,000 200,000 250,000
2019 1,910,000 - 0.20%
700,000 400,000 360,000 200,000 250,000
2020 1,560,000 - 0.35%
400,000 400,000 360,000 150,000 250,000
2021 960,000 - 0.60%
200,000 360,000 150,000 250,000
2022 0 - 0.96%
Total 5,000,000 2,950,000 2,880,000 2,100,000 100,000 2,500,000 $15,530,000
Note: Tax Base % Change assumes a $1.0M increase = 1.00% increase to the overall tax base.
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The attached appendices for each project have been prepared to provide further project detail
and to identify current funding shortfalls beyond the initial 2-3 year LEAF support. In each case,
the LEAF funding allocated over 2012-2015 is in keeping with LEAF objectives, i.e.) earmarked
for trail and tree planting projects.
List of Attached Appendix
Appendix A – Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) Projection
Appendix B – Emerald Ash Borer Impact on Street Trees
Appendix C – Huron Natural Area Conservation & Development
Appendix D – Victoria Park Strategic Plan Phase 2
Appendix E – McLennan Park Development
Appendix F – Walter Bean Trail Completion
Appendix G – Community Trail Development
ALIGNMENT WITH CITY OF KITCHENER STRATEGIC PLAN:
LEAF and the proposed LEAF supported projects support and fall into line with the
Community Vision, “Together, we will build an innovative, caring and vibrant Kitchener
with safe and thriving neighbourhoods” and the Corporate Mission, “Proudly providing
valued services to our community” through building and maintaining an exceptional park
& trail system.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
A total of $3,460,000 from the LEAF account is proposed for park & trail accounts as outlined in
Table 1 – LEAF Supported Projects (2012-2015).
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
The public remains informed and involved through the 2012 budget process.
ACKNOWLEDGED BY:
Carla Ladd, Chief Administrative Officer
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APPENDIX A – LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION FUND (LEAF) PROJECTION
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APPENDIX B – EMERALD ASH BORER IMPACT ON STREET TREES
BACKGROUND:
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) an introduced and quarantined tree pest, regulated by the Canadian
Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is causing catastrophic tree loss throughout eastern North
America. Since its discovery in 2002, Windsor has already felt the full impact of EAB, while
London, Hamilton, Toronto, the GTA, and Ottawa are currently dealing with this pest.
Figure 1 - Adult Emerald Ash Borer
With the positive identification of EAB in Kitchener by the CFIA in August 2010, Kitchener joins
the growing list of municipalities facing this challenge.
Once EAB is detected within an area the lifecycle of the infestation is rapid, with 100% tree
mortality typically occurring within ten years.
RATIONALE / ANALYSIS:
With the recent completion of the street treeinventory the financial impact of EAB on the City’s
street trees can be determined. For the 4,500 ash trees along residential streets 100% mortality
will occur if no action is taken.
The total cost to remove, stump and replant these trees will be approximately $5 million over the
10 year period.
Results from the separate active park treeinventory will conclude in 2012 for some 1,200 active
park trees (this will not include our natural land and woodlots). Related financial impacts of EAB
on park trees will be brought forward in the 2013 budget process.
The loss of these ash trees will also result in a loss of $3 million in free environmental services
(air quality, carbon sequestration, storm water).
It is anticipated that the mortality of Ash trees will increase significantly over the next 5-6 years,
peaking in 2017 & 2018, and then gradually reducing as the City suffers the loss of its remaining
Ash trees. This data remains preliminary and is based on mortality rates experienced in other
municipalities. Further monitoring and investigation will take place in 2012.
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Figure 2 – Emerald Ash Borer Tree Mortality Forecast
EMERALD ASH BORER TREE MORTALITY
1000
900
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
2012201320142015201620172018201920202021
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) supports community tree planting through its
operating principles by accomplishing many LEAF goals (local air quality, reduced energy use,
etc.). Table 1 below provides an annual cost estimate for the financial impact of EAB to street
trees and the recommended allocation from the LEAF fund. Unallocated funding to be
considered in a future budget process.
Table 1 – Emerald Ash Borer Financial Impact on Street Trees (2012-2021)
Funding Source 2012 2013 2014201520162017201820192020 2021 Subtotal
EXISTING 175 0 0000000 0 175
LEAF0 250 35050000000 0 $1,100
UNALLOCATED 0 0 007001,000900700400 200 $3,900
TOTAL FINANCIAL IMPACT $5,175
Note: Amounts show in 000’s
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Funding source for Emerald Ash Borer Impact on Street Trees as follows:
(2012) $175,000 – Existing Funding (included during 2011 budget process)
(2013 – 2015) $1,100,000 – LEAF funding (proposed in 2012 budget process)
(2016 – 2021) $3,900,000 – Unallocated (to be considered in a future budget process)
RECOMMENDATION:
That the 10-year Capital forecast as outlined in Table 1 –Emerald Ash Borer Impact on Street
Trees (2012-2021) above, be included for consideration in the 2012 Capital Budget Process.
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APPENDIX C – HURON NATURAL AREA CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT
BACKGROUND:
In 1981 the lands known as the Huron Natural Area (HNA) were zoned for an industrial park.
Through the vision of community leaders the idea of protecting this unique area grew and today
264 hectares have been protected.
The Vision for HNA is as stated in the HNA Master Plan (2001):
• to maintain or improve the ecological integrity and stewardship of the park, and
• to facilitate the understanding of the Waterloo Region’s indigenous ecosystems
In 2006, the City along with SuperBuild funding invested $1.5 million dollars into HNA. This work
included; the development of a main access point/parking, a washroom/picnic shelter with a
green roof, a bus drop off zone and construction of the Huron trail, Forest trail and Meadow trail.
In 2010, the city completed the Strasburg Creek boardwalk crossing with a donation of
$175,000 from TD Canada Trust. The funding went towards the development of the Strasburg
Creek trail and boardwalk and a protected archaeological site containing an aboriginal village
with longhouses, along with interpretative signage for the site.
Today HNA is Kitchener’s premier and largest natural area. The park is used daily by the public
with the parking lot often filled. Kitchener’s Natural Areas Program (KNAP), Earth Day
Celebrations annually attract more than 750 community members. More than 1890 residents
and students participated in 41 educational hikes provided by the city through KNAP in 2011
and this is expected to grow annually.
HNA also is a partnership project with the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and
the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) through a Joint Venturers agreement.
Annually 5,600 children participate in spring and fall outdoor education programming at HNA.
Partnerships and working relationships continue to evolve and develop at HNA and included the
following in 2011: Evergreen Foundation, University of Waterloo, REEP (Stormwater
Management), and Huron Heights High School (Environmental Club).
RATIONALE / ANALYSIS:
The Parks Strategic Plan Action Item 1.3.3 recommended the development of site-specific
natural area management plans for priority areas including HNA. The HNA conservation and
development strategy implements outstanding work and long term (ten-year) upgrades identified
in the HNA Masterplan (2001).
Works include the development/upkeep of the front entrance area,trails, woodlot, meadow &
wetland conservation/restoration and archaeological conservation. The long-term objective of an
education / environmental centre at the HNA site will be addressed at a later time independently
of this conservation and development strategy.
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) supports community trail, tree planting & natural
area public awarenessthrough its operating principles by accomplishing many LEAF goals (air
quality, reduced energy use, improvements to natural lands & more complete communities).
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Park Improvements and their corresponding year are as follows, LEAF supported projects are
BOLD
identified in in right margin:
A. Front Entrance Area
1.LEAF (2013 portion)
Demonstration gardens & landscaping (2013, 2015, 2017)
2.
Additional classroom portable through donation (2016)
3.
Green Roof maintenance (2017)
4.
Parking Lot expansion -permeable pavement (2016)
B. Trails & Boardwalks
5.LEAF
Plantation Trail –Section A, B & C (2013, 2014)
6.
Forest Trail –Trail & boardwalk extension (2015)
7.
Forest Trail –Connection to Plantation & Fischer Hallman (2018)
8.
Woodland Trail –Section A (2016, 2017)
9.
Woodland Trail –Trail expansion to Strasburg (2019, 2020)
10.
Strasburg Creek Trail –Extension to Woodland Trail (2020)
11.
Strasburg Creek trail –Battler’s Pond crossing/boardwalk (2019)
12.
Huron Trail –Trail & boardwalk lookout (2017)
C. Conservation & Restoration
13.LEAF
South edge conservation, including archaeological (2014)
14.LEAF (2014 portion)
Plantation Area A & B restoration (2014, 2017)
15.LEAF
Soft Maple Swamp restoration (2014)
16.LEAF
Meadow restoration (2013)
Figure 1 – Huron Natural Area Conservation & Development Key Plan (2012-2021)
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Table 1 below provides an annual cost estimate for each of the three (3) key areas for the
ongoing improvement and upkeep of Huron Natural Area.
Table 1 – Huron Natural Area Conservation & Development (2012-2021)
Front Entrance Community Conservation Total Annual
AreaTrails& Restoration Budget
EXISTING FUNDING IN 2012 - 2021 CAPITAL FORECAST
20120 50,000050,000
20140 50,000050,000
TOTAL EXISTING FUNDING$100,000
FUNDING SOURCE: LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION FUND (LEAF)
2012
0 000
2013
30,000 80,00040,000150,000
2014
0 140,000260,000400,000
TOTAL LEAF FUNDING$550,000
FUNDING SOURCE: UNALLOCATED
(consideration in future budget process)
2015
30,000 350,00020,000400,000
2016
185,000 215,0000400,000
2017
100,000 220,00080,000400,000
2018
0 400,0000400,000
2019
0 375,00025,000400,000
2020
0 400,0000400,000
2021
0 000
TOTAL UNALLOCATED FUNDING$2,400,000
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Funding source for the Huron Natural Area conservation & development as follows:
(2012 + 2014) $100,000 – Existing capital funding
(2013-2014) $550,000 – LEAF funding
(2015-2021) $2,400,000 – Unallocated (to be considered in future budget process)
RECOMMENDATION:
That the 10-year Capital forecast as outlined in Table 1 –Huron Natural Area Conservation &
Development (2012-2021) above, be included for consideration in the 2012 Capital Budget
Process.
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APPENDIX D – VICTORIA PARK STRATEGIC PLAN PHASE 2
BACKGROUND:
In 2002 the City of Kitchener initiated a comprehensive public process to develop a guide for the
immediate and long term future of Victoria Park which reflected the requirements of the citizens
of Kitchener and develop a practical strategy for its realization. The first series of public
meetings resulted in a Foundations Plan which summarized the primary goals for Victoria Park.
This included broad categories such as:
-Lake and Water Quality -Walkways and Bridges
-Public Safety -Traffic and Parking
-Landscape Features and Buildings -Special Events
TheVictoria Park Strategic Plan was then developed through additional public meetings and
Foundations Plan goals were translated into specific capital projects which could be
implemented over a ten year period.
Council subsequently approved a ten year capital forecast for the period 2004 to 2013 utilizing
the Economic Downtown Investment Fund (EDIF) which has provided $270,000 annually.
The remaining balance of the Victoria Park Strategic Plan account and the 2012 & 2013 EDIF
investment have been allocated for the park lake edge treatment within the current Victoria Park
Lake Improvements works (T11-080).
RATIONALE / ANALYSIS:
The Parks Strategic Plan Action Item 4.1.2 recommended the completion of VictoriaPark
Strategic Plan (2004-2013) and identify funding beyond 2013 when EDIF funding expires for
ongoing park improvements and upkeep over the ten-year capital forecast.
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) supports community trail and tree planting
through its operating principles by accomplishing many LEAF goals (local air quality, reduced
energy use, improvements to natural lands & more complete/connected communities).
Park improvements and their corresponding year are as follows, LEAF supported projects are
BOLD
identified in in right margin:
A. Pavilion Exterior
1.
Pavilion terrace and rock garden (2019)
B. Trails & Bridges
2.LEAF
Henry Strum Greenway Trail railway crossing (2014)
3.LEAF
Trail/walkway connection to Schneider Ave. (2014)
4.LEAF (2014 portion)
Surfacing of trails/walkways (2014, 2017-2020)
C. Lighting, Signage & Furnishings
5.
Park furniture (2016)
6.
Orientation map & directional signage (2018)
7.
Lighting Improvements (2015, 2016, 2017, 2019)
8.
Trail Lighting –additional (2015)
D. Park Landscape
9.
Commons CPTED landform grading (2016)
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10.
Drainage corrections (2016)
11.
Commons turf irrigation (2021)
12.LEAF (2014 portion)
Annual park tree & shrub planting (2014-2021)
13.LEAF
Lake perimeter tree/shrub plantings (2014)
14.
Site landscape improvements (2021)
15.
Park improvement –No man’s land (2017-2019)
E. Playground and Park Structures
16.
Playstructure reconstruction/replacement (2015-2016)
17.
Picnic shelter (2020)
Table 1 below provides an annualcost estimate for each of the five (5) key areas for the
ongoing improvement and upkeep of Victoria Park.
Table 1 – Victoria Park 2014-2021 Strategic Plan Phase 2
Pavilion Trails & Lighting,ParkPlayground Annual
ExteriorBridges Signage & Landscape & Park General
Furnishings StructuresProvision
FUNDING SOURCE: LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION FUND (LEAF)
2014
0 260,0000100,0000 360,000
TOTAL LEAF FUNDING$360,000
FUNDING SOURCE: UNALLOCATED
(consideration in future budget process)
2015
0 75,000025,000260,000 360,000
2016
0 080,000150,000130,000 360,000
2017
0 130,00025,000205,0000 360,000
2018
0 135,00045,000180,0000 360,000
2019
100,000 140,00020,000100,0000 360,000
2020
0 120,000020,000220,000 360,000
2021
0 030,000330,0000 360,000
TOTAL UNALLOCATED FUNDING $2,520,000
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Funding source for the 2014-2021 Victoria Park Strategic Plan Phase 2 as follows:
(2014) $360,000 – LEAF funding
(2015 – 2021) $2,520,000 – Unallocated (to be considered in a future budget process)
RECOMMENDATION:
That the 10-year Capital forecast as outlined in Table 1 – Victoria Park 2014-2021 Strategic
Plan Phase 2 above, be included for consideration in the 2012 Capital Budget Process.
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APPENDIX E – McLENNAN PARK DEVELOPMENT
BACKGROUND:
McLennan Park is located near the corner of Strasburg Road and Ottawa Street. The park
includes 97 acres on a former landfill site and is currently owned by the Region of Waterloo and
leased to the City of Kitchener as a city-wide park. The major facilities of the park were
completed and opened up to the public in July 2011.
The McLennan Park infrastructure consists of the following facilities: park roadway & parking,
picnic shelter, skateboard park, bike park, dog park, washroom building, toboggan hill,
basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, accessible playstructure, splash pad, community trails
and picnic area.
RATIONALE / ANALYSIS:
The Parks Strategic Plan Action Item 4.1.4 recommended the completion of McLennan Park
Master Plan development and to identify ongoing park improvements and upkeep over the ten-
year capital forecast. With the completion of the 2011 works, staff has developed a detailed
implementation strategy with four (4) key areas for the management and long term
enhancement of the park to deal with the ongoing and increased park usage.
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) supports community trail and tree planting
through its operating principles by accomplishing many LEAF goals (local air quality, reduced
energy use, improvements to natural lands & more complete communities).
Park improvements and their corresponding year are as follows, LEAF supported projects are
BOLD
identified in in right margin:
A. Roadway & Parking Lots
1.
Final coat of asphalt on all park roadways & parking lots (2015)
2.
50 car parking lot nearest to Blackhorne Drive entrance (2016)
B. Park Trails
3.LEAF
Trail along the west side of the park (2014)
4.LEAF
Trail connections to Barwood & Blackhorne (2013)
5.
Asphalting of the existing hill trails (2018)
6.
Asphalt trail along the Ottawa Street side (2019)
7.LEAF (2014 portion)
Woodlot trail development (2014, 2021)
C. Park Features & Facilities
8.
Winter Skating Rink water & electrical (2016)
9.
Hill Lookout Feature (2016)
10.
Benches & Picnic Tables (2016, 2017, 2019, 2021)
11.
Bike Park upgrades (2016)
12.
Additional Molok Garbage Containers (2016)
13.
Dog Park Lighting (2018)
D. Park Landscape
14.LEAF (2013 portion)
Park Tree Plantings (2013, 2017, 2020)
15.
Regeneration Plantings (2019, 2021)
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Figure 1 – McLennan Park Development Key Plan (2012-2021)
Table 1 below provides an annual cost estimate for each of the four (4) key areas for the
ongoing improvement and upkeep of McLennan Park.
Table 1 – McLennan Park Development (2012-2021)
Roads &Community Park Features ParkTotal Annual
ParkingTrails& Facilities TreesBudget
FUNDING SOURCE: LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION FUND (LEAF)
20120 000 0
2013
0 100,0000200,000 300,000
2014
0 300,00000 300,000
TOTAL LEAF FUNDING $600,000
FUNDING SOURCE: UNALLOCATED
(consideration in future budget process)
2015300,000 000 300,000
2016100,000 0200,0000 300,000
20170 050,000150,000 200,000
20180 125,00075,0000 200,000
20190 100,00040,00060,000 200,000
20200 00150,000 150,000
20210 25,00060,00065,000 150,000
TOTAL UNALLOCATED FUNDING $1,500,000
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Funding source for the McLennan Park Development as follows:
(2013 – 2014) $600,000 – LEAF funding
(2015 – 2021) $1,500,000 – Unallocated (to be considered in a future budget process)
RECOMMENDATION:
That the 10-year Capital forecast as outlined in Table 1 – McLennan Park Development (2012-
2021) above, be included for consideration in the 2012 Capital Budget Process.
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APPENDIX F – WALTER BEAN TRAIL COMPLETION
BACKGROUND:
Since it was first proposed by citizen groups in the 1980’s the purpose of the Walter Bean
Grand River Community Trail (WBT) initiative continues to be the creation of a continuous trail
along the banks of the Grand River through Waterloo Region.
Development of the Walter Bean Trail began in May 1999 with Council endorsement of the
Walter Bean Grand River Trail Master Plan (1998).
Over 2.4 million dollars has been donated by the WBT Foundation, now administered by the
Grand River Conservation Foundation (GRCF) for the construction of trails within City of
Kitchener (City) and an additional 1.2 million dollars (1.5 million dollars with interest) for the
installation of the pedestrian bridge over the Grand River.
The City is accountable for the funding of all planning components including contract
administration, engineering/consultant fees and permit applications while the GRCF funds the
trail construction allocation. This City is also responsible for all long term trail maintenance,
repair and future improvements of the trail.
The WBT when completed will total over 30 kilometres in length within the City of Kitchener.
RATIONALE / ANALYSIS:
The Parks Strategic Plan (2010) Action Item 2.3.6 recommended that the city “Complete the
implementation of the long range plan for the Walter Bean Trail”.
The Kitchener Municipal Plan (2000) states that the City shall strive to maximize the public
access along the Grand River in order that its recreational potential is realized.
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) supports community trail through its operating
principles by accomplishing many LEAF goals (local air quality, reduced energy use,
improvements to natural lands & more complete communities).
Staff has developed an implementation strategy with three (3) key timelines/constraints for the
completion of the Walter Bean Trail as follows:
A. Recently completed or in-progress trail sections (2010-2012)
B. Completion of Walter Bean Grand River Trail (2012-2014)
C. Replacement of street routes (future)
A. Recently Completed or In-Progress Trail Sections (2010-2012)
Trail sections recently completed or in-progress with completion scheduled by 2012 year end.
Funding for all trail sections has been previously allocated.
1. Idlewood Creek Trail
Trail completion from Zeller Drive to Sims Estate Drive (developer-build section). Gap
outstanding, see section 8 – Idlewood Creek (Upper Mercer Street) trail below.
2. Sims Estate Trail
Developer-build trail section from the historic Sims Estate driveway, across the old
driveway bridge, through the condominium and out to the existing trail at Manitoulin
Crescent.
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3. Lancaster Gallery Trail
150 meters of trail between Riverbend Drive and Lancaster Street West in the vicinity
of Lancaster Gallery.
4. Grand River Boulevard Trail
Reconstruction of 300 meters of trail in conjunction with the Grand River Slope
Stabilization project.
5. Clarica Lookout
Development of the Clarica Lookout on Joseph Schoerg Crescent in conjunction with
the recently completed Betzner Barn foundation restoration.
6. Grand River Pedestrian Bridge
Pedestrian bridge crossing over the Grand River between Doon Valley Golf course
and the floodplain lands near Pioneer Tower.
B. Completion of Walter Bean Grand River Trail (2012-2014)
Trail sections proposed in 2012-2014 and to be funded in order to complete the WBT.
7. Pioneer Tower to Hwy 401 Trail
Completion of 2950 meters of trail from Kuntz Park, to the Grand River pedestrian
bridge, to the Doon Valley Golf Course access node and to the 401 pedestrian bridge.
8. Idlewood Creek Trail (Upper Mercer Street)
300 meters of trail from the Upper Mercer Street to Fairway Road, linking Janine St.
9. Tinatawa Court Trail
200 meters of trail behind Tinatawa Court out to Grand River Blvd.
10. Carisbrook Drive Trail
Trail linking Carisbrook Drive natural area to the Bridge Street round-about.
Table 1 below provides the cost estimate and GRCF/CITY allocation for the completion of the
Walter Bean Grand River Community Trail for section 7-10. Staff recommends utilizing LEAF to
support the city costs of the trail development.
Table 1 – Walter Bean Grand River Community Trail Completion Cost Estimate
Key Map GRCFCITY-LEAF Total
Trail Section
Number PortionPortionBudget
7
Pioneer Tower to Hwy 401 Trail 274,00045,000 319,000
8Idlewood Creek Trail 180,00037,000 217,000
9Tinatawa Court Trail 75,00010,000 85,000
10Carisbrook Drive Trail 50,0008,000 55,000
TOTAL$579,000$100,000 $676,000
Note: GRCF Portion is estimated and subject to actual installation costs invoiced on completion.
C. Replacement of Street Routes (future)
Completed trail sections currently designed as Street Routes due to private land ownershipor
site constraints. The future river-side routes are not currently planned or estimated due to the
uncertainties. Interim sidewalk walk-around routes are in place to complete the WBT.
11. Forwell Quarry Trail
1,300 meters of trail from Kolb Park at Centennial Road to Otterbein Road, just north
of Ottawa St. N. Presently this is under private ownership and a temporary route
follows Centennial Drive and Forwell Road.
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12. Freeport Floodplain Trail
1750 meters of trail from King Street East at Freeport to Grand River Blvd. at Chandos
Dr. Presently these floodplain lands are under private ownership and a temporary
route follows Grand River Blvd., River Road & King Street.
13. Chandos Drive Stairs
Construction of stairs down a steep slope to provide a trail connection from Tinatawa
Court trail to Chandos Drive leading to the Freeport floodplain trail. Presently an
accessible route follows Grand River Blvd. & Chandos Drive.
Figure 1 – Walter Bean Grand River Community Trail Key Plan
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Funding source for the Walter Bean Grand River Community Trail completion as follows:
(2012) $100,000 – LEAF funding
(2012-14) $579,000 – GRCF donation
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Capital forecast as outlined in Table 1 –Walter Bean Grand River Community Trail
Completion above, be included for consideration in the 2012 Capital Budget Process.
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APPENDIX G – COMMUNITY TRAIL DEVELOPMENT
BACKGROUND:
On November 17, 2011 during special Finance & Corporate Services Committee meeting
related to the 2012-2021 Capital Budget, staff was directed to report back on the feasibility of
supporting park and trail deficits identified in Issue Paper C11 –Park & Urban Forestry Strategic
Plans, utilizing Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) and to provide options.
RATIONALE / ANALYSIS:
The Parks Strategic Plan (September 2010) identified Community Trails as one of the 6 major
themes of the Parks Strategic Plan. In addition, the plan also recommended that a Community
Trails Master Plan and Implementation Strategy (Trails Master Plan) be developed (Parks
Strategic Plan Action Item 2.1).
The Parks Strategic Plan also identified an additional investment of $1.0M to the community
trails 10-year capital budget in order to achieve an annual trail investment of $0.5M. In
comparison, average capital trail investment for other municipalities ranges from $1.1M to
$1.7M annually - Hamilton, London, Brampton, Oakville (Draft Trail Master Plan page 13).
The Multi-Use Pathway and Trails Master Plan & Implementation Strategy (Trails Master Plan)
was initiated in June 2010, with an update and draft master plan provide to Community &
Infrastructure Services Committee on August 2010. A final report and master plan is in progress
and anticipated to be brought forward in early 2012 for final endorsement.
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) supports community trail development through its
operating principles by accomplishing many LEAF goals (local air quality, reduced energy use,
more complete communities, capital enhancements to city managed natural lands, etc.).
Additional funding in 2012-2014 through LEAF combined with existing capital funding will
support the following community trail work, this list is preliminary and priorities are subject to
change pending the strategies and recommendations of the Trails Master Plan.
2012 Community Trail Development
Completion of Multi-Use Pathways and Trails Master Plan
Balzer Creek Trail (Homer Watson to Coach Hill Drive)
Doon Trails Phase 1 of 7 (Tilt Trail to Knox Court & Robert Ferrie Drive)
Doon Trails Phase 2 of 7 (Knox Court to Pine Valley Drive)
Trans-Canada Trail (Schneider Creek –Balzer & Block Line)
Community Trail general provision deficit
2013 Community Trail Development(subject to recommendations of Trail Master Plan)
Proposed Type 1 & 2 Pathways -TBD (Trails Master Plan strategy)
Existing Type 1 Pathway upgrades -TBD (Trails Master Plan strategy)
Doon Trails Phase 3 of 7 (Pine Valley Drive to Doon Mills Drive)
Doon Trails Phase 4 of 7 (Doon Mills Drive to Doon South Drive)
(subject to recommendations of Trail Master Plan)
2014 Community Trail Development
Proposed Type 1 & 2 Pathways -TBD (Trails Master Plan strategy)
Existing Type 1 Pathway upgrades -TBD (Trails Master Plan strategy)
Doon Trails Phase 5 of 7 (Parallel Doon South Drive)
Doon Trails Phase 6 of 7 (Buerkle Court to Doon Mills Drive)
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Figure 1 – Community Trail Development
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Table 1 below outlines the existing annual community trail capital budget and the recommended
additional funding from LEAF.
Table 1 – Community Trail Development (2012-2021)
Funding Source 2012 2013 2014201520162017201820192020 2021 Subtotal
Existing Capital
377 378 381384387419499555566 577 4523
(C/C + DC)
LEAF
250 250 250000000 0 750
(proposed)
Note: Amounts show in 000’s
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Funding source for Community Trail Development as follows:
(2012 – 2021) $4,523,000 – Existing Funding (both C/C and DC)
(2012 – 2014) $750,000 – LEAF funding (proposed in 2012 budget process)
RECOMMENDATION:
That the 10-year Capital forecast as outlined in Table 1 – Community Trail Development (2012-
2021) above, be included for consideration in the 2012 Capital Budget Process.
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