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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works - 1998-02-09PWTC\1998-02-09 PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 1998 CITY OF KITCHENER The Public Works and Transportation Committee met this date under the Chairmanship of Councillor John Smola, with all members present. Councillors B. Vrbanovic and Jake Smola were in attendance for part of the meeting. Others Present: Councillor T. Galloway, Ms. S. Kennedy and Messrs. D. Snow, S. Gyorffy, J. Bayley, J. Gazzola, D. Mansell, R. Schirm, T. McCabe, T. Clancy, J. Cicuttin, L. Lynch and L.F. Parkhouse. This meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee commenced at 8:40 a.m. 1. DOPWR 98-4 - TRAFFIC CONTROL/CALMING MEASURES - UPPER DOON HERITAGE CONSERVATION DISTRICT - DOON VILLAGE ROAD The Committee was reminded that a public meeting was held on September 29, 1997, to consider a proposal to temporarily close Doon Village Road. This temporary closure was considered to be a way of addressing the concerns of through traffic and speeding on Doon Village Road within the Upper Doon Heritage District. It was felt that the temporary closure would provide a solution to the existing problems until the Doon Village Road diversion was completed. Several concerns were expressed by area residents and, as a result, City Council agreed that the temporary closure would not proceed but rather staff would convene a meeting with representatives from the various neighbourhoods in the area in an attempt to reach a compromise. As a result, a second public meeting was convened on January 7, 1998 and, as a result of that meeting, the following recommendations are being advanced at this time: · restrict traffic to a one-way eastbound movement on Doon Village Road, from the west limit of the first single lane bridge to Doon South Drive, commencing July 1, 1998; · appropriate advance warning of the one-way designation/restriction be installed on Homer Watson Boulevard and Doon South Drive; staff of the Traffic and Parking Division co-ordinate with the Transportation Division of the School Boards appropriate adjustments to the area school bus routes affected by the one-way restriction, effective with the commencement of the school year in September 1998; · extend the existing 40 km/h speed limit on Doon Village Road, in the Heritage District, from its present starting/termination point at Doonbrook Place to Bechtel Drive; · introduce traffic calming centre line portable planters to be strategically placed on Doon Village Road from April 1st to November 1st, annually; these traffic control/calming measures be considered temporary, to remain in place until the Doon Village Road diversion is constructed and open to traffic, at which time these measures will be reviewed to determine if any or all to be retained or removed; · entrance signs for the Heritage District be designed and installed with the co-operation and funding of Heritage Kitchener; · funding in the amount of $10,000.00 be provided for the manufacture, supply and installation of the traffic control/calming measures; · these measures to be monitored on a regular basis to determine the effectiveness and level of compliance; and, · the Waterloo Regional Police Services be requested to provide the necessary enforcement of these measures. The Committee was advised that the report, as presented at this time, has been circulated to 17 area residents with 10 letters of support being received. 7 residents are opposed to the recommendations with their opposition basically being based on existing traffic conditions on Homer PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 1998 -9- CITY OF KITCHENER Watson Boulevard, DOPWR 98-4 - TRAFFIC CONTROL/CALMING MEASURES - UPPER DOON HERITAGE CONSERVATION DISTRICT - DOON VILLAGE ROAD (CONT'D) Mr. C. Patrick, 10 Quail Hollow, appeared before the Committee and advised that basically he supports the recommendations as contained in the staff report. He noted, however, that many mothers of the area are concerned that up to 10 school buses per day will still have to use Homer Watson Boulevard. This means that these buses will be brought into potential conflict with transport trucks. It was noted, however, that, if school buses were allowed to use Doon Village Road, conflicts with large trucks would be totally eliminated. It was noted that Doon Village Road presently provides a transportation link between new and existing communities. In this regard, Mr. Patrick reminded the Committee that City Council has already received a petition which was signed by over 300 area residents requesting that no action be taken in regard to Doon Village Road until such time as proper alternative routing has been put in place. Mr. Patrick acknowledged that this alternative routing may not be in place until 2001 or 2002 but suggested that, in his opinion, creating a one-way system on part of Doon Village Road is not the answer. Councillor B. Vrbanovic entered the meeting at this time. Mr. Patrick suggested to the Committee that people of the area may use Doon Village Road to avoid being held up by a school crossing guard at the intersection of Bechtel Drive and Pioneer Drive, and the traffic congestion which exists with people trying to make a right hand turn from Pioneer Drive onto Homer Watson Boulevard. Mr. Patrick suggested to the Committee that a stop sign at the intersection of Oregon Drive and Doon Village Road may be helpful. When questioned by Councillor G. Lorentz, Mr. D. Snow advised that these proposals have been reviewed with both School Boards. The Separate School Board has indicated that they will reverse their existing routing which means they will not use Homer Watson Boulevard but they will still have to cross it. The Public School Board presently uses Homer Watson Boulevard and will continue to do so. They have indicated, however, that they will attempt to change their routes so that the use of Homer Watson Boulevard can be minimized. In regard to the comments made by Mr. Patrick, Mr. Snow advised that the development of a right hand turn lane on Pioneer Drive at Homer Watson Boulevard will be investigated. Mr. R. Schirm advised the Committee that discussions will be held with the existing crossing guard in order to minimize traffic delays. Mr. D. Snow advised that concerns regarding rear-end collisions caused by traffic slowing to make a right hand turn from Homer Watson Boulevard onto Doon South Drive is legitimate. It was noted that the installation of a right turn lane is not possible and, accordingly, advance warning signs will be installed. It is hoped that these warning signs will also help in reducing the instances of vehicles running red lights. Mr. D. Jones, 1150 Doon Village Road, appeared before the Committee and suggested that at the present time Doon Village Road is being used as a Homer Watson Boulevard alternative. In this regard, it was suggested that the volume of traffic using Doon Village Road also creates school busing problems. Mr. Jones suggested that the finalization of a proper diversion is the best plan, however, it is acknowledged that this work will not be completed for quite some time. Mr. Jones indicated his support for the recommendations as contained in the staff report and expressed the hope that the implementation of these recommendations will reduce the amount of traffic on Doon Village Road. The Committee was advised that pedestrians of all ages walk along Doon Village Road and recent surveys have indicated that speeding takes place on a regular basis. Councillor T. Galloway referred to a stop sign which has been located at the intersection of Tilt Drive and Doon Village Road and was advised that the retention or removal of this stop sign will be reviewed after the recommendations being presented have been implemented. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 1998 - 10 - CITY OF KITCHENER 1. DOPWR 98-4 - TRAFFIC CONTROL/CALMING MEASURES - UPPER DOON HERITAGE CONSERVATION DISTRICT - DOON VILLAGE ROAD (CONT'D) Councillor Galloway referred to the recommendations, as contained in the report, and suggested that Item No.6 should be amended so that it is clear that Doon Village Road will be permanently closed in accordance with the Community Plan. In this regard, Mr. D. Snow pointed out that Doon Village Road will be permanently closed at Doonbrook Drive, as per the Community Plan, however, the section of road in the area of the bridges will remain open. Councillor Galloway was of the opinion that the recommendations should include an indication of Council's support for the installation of the advance warning lights on Homer Watson Boulevard at Doon South Drive. In this regard, Mr. D. Snow indicated that it is his understanding that these warnings lights will be installed by the Region by April 1998, at the latest. Councillor Galloway also indicated that speeding on Homer Watson Boulevard is a major concern and, accordingly, he suggested that advance warning signals should also be installed for the intersection of Pioneer Drive and Homer Watson Boulevard. Consideration should also be given to the development of right hand turn lanes on Homer Watson Boulevard at Pioneer Drive. Mayor C. Zehr expressed the hope that the plans for the traffic control/calming measures would be reviewed because, in his opinion, what is being presented at the present time is not all that attractive. Councillor Jake Smola entered the meeting at this time. When questioned by Councillor G. Lorentz, Mr. D. Snow advised that any changes to existing school bus routes will become effective with the new school year in September 1998. In the meantime, City staff will work with both School Boards to come up with acceptable routes which can be circulated to parents well in advance of their implementation. The recommendations as contained in the report were then moved by Councillor J. Haalboom. Mayor C. Zehr introduced an amendment to Item No.6 suggesting that this work would be reviewed so that it is undertaken in a manner which is consistent with the Community Plan. Mayor Zehr also introduced amendments regarding the installation of advance warning signals at the intersections of Homer Watson Boulevard and Doon South Drive, and Homer Watson Boulevard and Pioneer Drive. The final amendment, introduced by Mayor Zehr, would have the effect of requesting Regional Council to consider developing right hand turn lanes on Homer Watson Boulevard at Pioneer Drive, with the City considering the development of a right hand turn lane on Pioneer Drive at Homer Watson Boulevard. Councillor J. Ziegler introduced an amendment which would have the effect of having the City erect a sign which would advise future property purchasers that, at some time in the future, Doon Village Road will be completely closed. The original motion as introduced by Councillor J. Haalboom and subsequently amended by Mayor C. Zehr and Councillor J. Ziegler, was put to a vote and Carried. The motion, as amended, which will be presented to City Council, will read as follows: "That traffic be restricted to a one-way eastbound movement on Doon Village Road, from the west limit of the first single lane bridge to Doon South Drive, commencing July 1, 1998, and further, That appropriate advance warning of the one-way designation/restriction be installed on Homer Watson Boulevard and Doon South Drive, and further, That staff of the Traffic and Parking Division co-ordinate with the Transportation Division of the School Boards appropriate adjustments to the area school bus routes affected by the one-way restriction, effective with the commencement of the school year in September 1998, and further, PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 1998 - 11 - CITY OF KITCHENER 1. DOPWR 98-4 - TRAFFIC CONTROL/CALMING MEASURES - UPPER DOON HERITAGE CONSERVATION DISTRICT - DOON VILLAGE ROAD (CONT'D) That the existing 40 km/h speed limit be extended on Doon Village Road, in the Heritage District, from its present starting/termination point at Doonbrook Place to Bechtel Drive, and further, That traffic calming centre line portable planters be introduced, to be strategically placed on Doon Village Road from April 1st to November 1st, annually, and further, That these traffic control/calming measures be considered temporary, to remain in place until the Doon Village Road diversion is constructed and open to traffic, at which time these measures will be reviewed to determine if any or all are to be retained or removed, in such a manner to be consistent with the Community Plan, and further, That entrance signs for the Heritage District be designed and installed with the co-operation and funding of Heritage Kitchener, and further, That funding in the amount of $10,000.00 be provided for the manufacture, supply and installation of the traffic control/calming measures, and further, That these measures be monitored on a regular basis to determine the effectiveness and level of compliance, and further, That the Waterloo Regional Police Services be requested to provide the necessary enforcement of these measures, and further. That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly, and further, That it be recommended to the Regional Municipality of Waterloo that advance warning lights be installed at the intersections of Doon South Drive and Homer Watson Boulevard and Pioneer Drive and Homer Watson Boulevard, and further, That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo be asked to consider the development of right hand turn lanes on Homer Watson Boulevard at its intersection with Pioneer Drive, and further, That the staff of the Traffic and Parking Division of the Department of Public Works be instructed to review the possibility of developing a right hand turn lane on Pioneer Drive at Homer Watson Boulevard, and further, That an appropriate sign(s) be erected to advise future property purchasers that, at some time in the future, Doon Village Road will be completely closed, with the funds for such a sign to be taken out of the funds provided for the supply and installation of traffic control/ calming measures." Mr. T. Clancy advised the Committee that he has some concern regarding the costs involved in maintaining planters which will be used for traffic calming purposes, however, a report in this regard will be submitted at a later date. BACKYARD DRAINAGE PROBLEM - DUMFRIES/MELROSE AREA Mr. S. Gyorffy advised the Committee that for many years some residents in the area bounded by Krug Street, Dumfries Avenue and Melrose Avenue have expressed concern about the lack of drainage in their rear yards. In the fall of 1997, meetings were held involving the Ward Councillor, City staff and a number of residents. As a result, it is being recommended that several sump pumps be installed where needed with the discharge lines being buried to the point of discharge at the edge of the roadway. It is being suggested that, while the City does PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 1998 -12- CITY OF KITCHENER BACKYARD DRAINAGE PROBLEM - DUMFRIES/MELROSE AREA (CONT'D) not normally become involved in the installation of drainage on private property, in this case, approximately $6,000.00 be provided to alleviate the existing problem. Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison advised that she has met with the residents of the area and they support the recommendations being advanced at this time. Mr. K. Billo appeared before the Committee and expressed the view that two sump pumps should be sufficient to alleviate the existing problems. The residents agree to pick-up 50% of the cost of installation and will look after the electricity costs. Following further discussion and on motion by Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison - it was resolved: "That the City arrange for the installation of sump pumps in designated locations off Dumfries Avenue and Melrose Avenue to resolve ongoing backyard drainage problems, and further, That these pumps be installed only upon application by affected owners and the signing of agreements with the City, satisfactory to the City Solicitor, and further, That the residents pay 50% of the cost of installation at time of application, with a maximum City contribution of $6,000.00 from the 1998 Operating Budget, to be allocated by the City to this area, and further, That no installations proceed until the owners have agreed on details with respect to the number of pumps, their locations, and cost sharing arrangements." DOPWR 98-3 - 1998 REGIONAL ROADS PROGRAM AND 10 YEAR CAPITAL FORECAST The Committee was in receipt of a report recommending that the Region's 1998 Roads Capital Program be endorsed, subject to the work on Cedar Street between King Street and Weber Street being delayed for 1 year so that this work coincides with the City's portion of the project. The report also recommends that the Region's 10 Year Capital Forecast be endorsed, subject to adjustments which may be required to co-ordinate the scheduling and budgeting of City projects which must take place at the same time as the Regional work. Messrs. G. Vincent and R. Gallivan appeared before the Committee representing the Regional Engineering Department, and made a presentation outlining some works which were completed during 1997. The projects scheduled for completion during 1998 were then presented to the Committee. The details of these projects and all other projects within the 10 Year Capital Forecast are contained in the report, which was attached to the Public Works and Transportation Committee agenda. Councillor C. Weylie referred to the proposed widening of Highland Road, between Westmount Road and Fischer-Hallman Road, and pointed out that there is a drainage problem in this area, as well as the need for sidewalks. She requested that the Region consider the inclusion of these works as part of their detailed review. Mr. Vincent agreed to make note of the drainage and sidewalk concerns. Councillor B. Vrbanovic referred to improvements to King Street East, between Fairway Road and River Road, which are scheduled to take place in the year 2000. Councillor Vrbanovic was of the opinion that City Council had requested that this work be advanced and undertaken in 1998. In this regard, Mr. D. Snow confirmed that the Region was asked to bring this work forward, however, it was left for completion in 2000 in the Regional Forecast. In this regard, Mr. G. Vincent pointed out that the Fischer-Hallman Road extension and the work on King Street East were both identified as priorities. Both projects could not be completed within 1 year and, accordingly, the Fischer-Hallman Road extension was included for 1999, with the King Street East project being delayed to 2000. 3. DOPWR 98-3 - 1998 REGIONAL ROADS PROGRAM AND 10 YEAR CAPITAL FORECAST (CONT'D) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 1998 -13- CITY OF KITCHENER When questioned by Councillor B. Vrbanovic, Mr. Vincent advised that the reversing of these projects could be considered, however, he pointed out that numerous property acquisitions must be undertaken before the King Street East project can be completed. Mr. T. McCabe also noted that residential development in the area is dependent upon the extension of Fischer-Hallman Road. Councillor B. Vrbanovic suggested that King Street East will be highly used, particularly if the Ministry of Transportation goes ahead with their work to improve Highway #8 Mr. L. Lynch pointed out, however, that there is a huge financial impact associated with the King Street East project and funding for this work is not available at the present time. When questioned by Councillor J. Haalboom, Mr. Gallivan pointed out that landscaping is not considered during resurfacing projects. Landscaping is only taken into consideration when roads are being completely reconstructed. Councillor J. Ziegler disclosed a pecuniary interest in regard to the King Street East project, between Fairway Road and River Road, in that he owns property within this area. Councillor J. Ziegler referred to the 1997 Infrastructure Works Program and noted that the City of Kitchener did not get its fair share of the monies at that time. It was noted, however, that, as a result of works that could be undertaken in 1997 with Infrastructure dollars, other works would be advanced. Councillor Ziegler suggested, however, that it would now appear that, even with the advancement of certain works, the City of Kitchener is still not getting its fair share in 1998. In this regard, Mr. Vincent pointed out that, as a result of the 1997 Infrastructure Works Program, it was indicated that projects would be advanced in the Regional Forecast. This did not mean that all projects would be moved up to 1998. It was pointed out that the Fischer-Hallman Road extension was moved up to 1999 which was a significant upgrading from where it originally appeared in the Regional Forecast. Several members of the Committee commented on works associated with the Highway #8/K-W Expressway improvements and, in particular, the removal of the Ottawa Street bridge. In this regard, Mr. D. Snow pointed out that within the next two weeks he will be meeting with staff of the Ministry of Transportation and, at that time, he is hoping to convince them to make a presentation to City Council regarding this complete project. Councillor C. Weylie referred to the Regional plan for bicycle paths and questioned who pays the costs involved when a Regional bicycle path is located on a City street. In this regard, Mr. Vincent advised that it is his understanding that the costs were to be negotiated with City staff, however, he advised that he would review this matter and get an answer for Councillor Weylie. In response to a question by Councillor Weylie, Mr. D. Snow advised that negotiations are still taking place with adjacent property owners regarding the installation of traffic signals at the intersection of Lawrence Avenue and Highland Road. It was noted that there are no answers at the present time, however, it is expected that this signalization will be installed during 1998. Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison expressed concern about delaying the reconstruction of Cedar Street, between King Street and Weber Street, for one year. In this regard, Mr. J. Bayley pointed out that this short term deferral of one year can be accommodated since the emergency situation on King Street has been alleviated. Councillor T. Galloway referred to intersection improvements required at Baxter Place and old King Street. In this regard, Mr. G. Vincent acknowledged that major improvements were required and negotiations are taking place with the land developers in the area to see if the costs involved can be front-ended. Following further discussion and on motion by Councillor G. Lorentz - it was resolved: 3. DOPWR 98-3 - 1998 REGIONAL ROADS PROGRAM AND 10 YEAR CAPITAL FORECAST (CONT'D) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 1998 -14- CITY OF KITCHENER "That the City of Kitchener endorse the Regional Municipality of Waterloo's 1998 Roads Capital Program with the following adjustment: 'The reconstruction of Regional Road 65 - Cedar Street, King Street to Weber Street, will have to be delayed for one year (to 1999) to coincide with the City portion of the project, which has been rescheduled as a result of budget constraints.', and further, That the City of Kitchener endorse the programs identified in the Region's 10 Year Capital Forecast, and further, That, with respect to the timing of the projects identified in the 10 Year Capital Forecast, their program be adjusted to align with the affected schedules and budgeting of City projects and the co-ordination of impacts on City services, as per Item #4 contained in the report as presented to the Public Works and Transportation Committee on February 9, 1998." This motion was carried, however, Councillor J. Ziegler declared a pecuniary interest and abstained from voting in regard to all works involving King Street East, between Fairway Road and River Road, in that he owns a property in this area. 4. DOPWR 98-1 - SCHOOL BUS LOADING ZONE - SOUTHRIDGE PUBLIC SCHOOL The Committee considered a report which recommends that the school bus loading zone on Queen's Boulevard at Southridge Public School be extended by 21 metres to the north so that it will accommodate a total of 4 school buses. It was noted that, previously, the 4 buses arrived at staggered times, however, this is no longer the case and the only appropriate solution is to expand the loading zone area. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler - it was resolved: "That the school bus loading zone on Queen's Boulevard at Southridge Public School be extended by 21 metres northward to accommodate a total of 4 school buses, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 5. DOPWR 98-2 - USE OF NEW COLOUR FOR SCHOOL CROSSING SIGNS The Committee considered a report in which staff recommend that fluorescent yellow/green sheeting not be used on school crossing or school area signs in the City of Kitchener. Mr. D. Snow advised that staff are impressed with the impact of the yellow/green signs, however, he suggested that the results of the pilot project are still inconclusive. It was also noted that staff are reluctant to install signs which have not been recognized as being the Provincial standard. As a result, it is possible that if the City were to install new signs using this colour they could be held legally liable. There is also a concern that the yellow/green colour could be used for another form of traffic signage which would bring it into conflict with school crossing signs. The second concern, introduced by staff, is one of cost. The cost per square foot for the new product is $6.50 as opposed to the $1.40 per square foot for the materials used at the present time. Councillor G. Lorentz indicated his support for the use of the new yellow/green signs and is of the opinion that they will be helpful in that they are very obvious to the motoring public and, as a result, they will help protect all children. Councillor Lorentz suggested that, if the same colour sign were used for another purpose, he did not see that this would make a great difference. He also noted that it has been reported that the Cities of Cambridge and Waterloo will be erecting new signs using this colour. 5. DOPWR 98-2 - USE OF NEW COLOUR FOR SCHOOL CROSSING SIGNS (CONT'D) Councillor J. Ziegler noted that a resident had contacted him with the suggestion that speed limits be coloured coded and he has asked for a report in this regard. Councillor Ziegler indicated support PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 1998 -15- CITY OF KITCHENER for the comments made by Councillor Lorentz and suggested that brightly coloured signs will create a safety improvement in and around school areas. Councillor B. Vrbanovic indicated support for the introduction of the new signs and suggested that local members of the Provincial Parliament should be contacted with a request that they encourage the Provincial Government to accept the yellow/green colour as a new colour for school crossing signs. Following further discussion and on motion by Councillor G. Lorentz - it was resolved: "That fluorescent strong yellow/green sheeting be used on school crossing or school area signs on City of Kitchener roadways, and further, That the staff of the Traffic and Parking Division of the Department of Public Works correspond with all local members of Provincial Parliament with the request that the Provincial Government support the use of fluorescent strong yellow/green sheeting as the new recognized Provincial standard for school crossing and/or school area signs." 6. RE-ROUTING OF ROUTE 3 - OTTAWA STREET SOUTH The Committee considered a report which recommends that Route 3 - Ottawa South be re-routed along Laurentian Drive, Block Line Road and Westmount Road in the outbound direction. This change in routing will eliminate the need for buses to make a left hand turn from Dunsmere Drive to Westmount Road, followed immediately by a right hand turn from Westmount Road to Williamsburg Road. Mr. J. Cicuttin advised the Committee that the route changes as proposed will reduce the number of buses on Dunsmere Drive by 4 per hour during the peak operating hours. On motion by Councillor G. Lorentz - it was resolved: "That, effective March 9, 1998, Route 3 - Ottawa South be re-routed to travel along Laurentian Drive, Block Line Road and Westmount Road in the outbound direction only." 7. LEAF COLLECTION PROGRAM It was agreed that consideration of this report would be deferred and considered at the meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee scheduled for March 23, 1998. 8. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 10:40 a.m. L.F. Parkhouse, AMCT Deputy City Clerk