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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works - 1994-08-15PWTC\1994-08-15 PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 15, 1994 CITY OF KITCHENER The Public Works and Transportation Committee met this date under the Chairmanship of Councillor J. Smola with all members present, excepting Councillors G. Lorentz. His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo and Councillor M. Yantzi were in attendance for part of the meeting. Others Present: Councillor B. Stortz and Messrs. W. Beck, J. McBride, J. Cicuttin, D. Suzuki, D. Snow, R. Pritchard, S. Gyorffy, D. Mansell, B. Liddle and L.F. Parkhouse. This meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee commenced at 9:00 a.m. 1. Mr. Carl Zintel - Routing of Buses - Belleview Avenue Mr. Carl Zintel appeared before the Committee to review the contents of his letter which had been attached to the agenda. Mr. Zintel indicated that his main complaint is in regard to the noise created by buses which pass his residence approximately 465 times per week. Mr. Zintel indicated that he is a shift worker and the noise created by buses makes it very difficult for him to sleep during the daytime hours. Mr. Zintel advised the Committee that it is his view that the ridership in the Belleview Avenue area is not sufficient to justify the number of buses which pass through this section of the City on a daily basis. Mr. Zintel advised that he has discussed his problems with Messrs. Beck and Cicuttin, as well as circulating a petition throughout the area. 30 other area residents have signed a petition indicating that they concur with the concerns raised by Mr. Zintel. His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo entered the meeting at this time. When questioned by Councillor C. Weylie, Mr. Zintel advised that the 30 signatures on his petition would represent approximately 20% of the residents in his immediate area. Following further discussion, it was agreed that the concerns of Mr. Zintel would be referred to staff for further consideration with a report to be presented to the Public Works and Transportation Committee at the next meeting which will be held on September 19, 1994. 2.DOPWR 94-41 - Traffic Control - Belmont Lane West The Committee considered a report which recommends that stop controls be installed on Belmont Lane at Rock Avenue. It was noted that this recommendation is being advanced due to a complaint regarding the lack of traffic controls. Councillor C. Weylie suggested that the recommended course of action should be discussed with the Belmont Improvement Area Board of Management. Mr. Snow undertook to pursue this course of action prior to next weeks meeting of City Council. On motion by Councillor C. Weylie - it was resolved: "That stop controls be installed at the following location: Belmont Lane West at Rock Avenue (both westbound and eastbound), and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 3. DOPWR 94-42 - On-Street Parking - Fairview Street The Committee was advised that a request has been received to have parking prohibited on the west side of Fairview Street from Weber Street to a point 23 metres south. It was noted that parking in the area in question creates visibility problems for cars backing out of the driveway on the subject lands. 3. DOPWR 94-42 - On-Street Parking - Fairview Street (Cont'd) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 15, 1994 - 54 - CITY OF KITCHENER On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler - it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited on the west side of Fairview Street from Weber Street to a point 23 metres south of Weber Street, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 4. DOPWR 94-43 - Traffic Control - Indian Road and Montcalm Drive The Committee was advised that when Heritage Drive was closed on a temporary basis there were concerns about anticipated traffic impacts on the surrounding streets. As a result, an all-way stop control was installed at the intersection of Montcalm Drive and Indian Road. The Committee was advised that staff have reviewed the situation in the area and traffic on Indian Road and Montcalm Drive has not materialized to the extent anticipated. It was also noted that many drivers do not comply with the existing all-way stop signage. In addition to non-compliance, the all-way stop controls have made it difficult for the adult crossing guard to safely escort children across the street. There is also a false sense of security for pedestrians. The all-way stop controls have created traffic back-ups on both legs of Montcalm Drive and, in general, have created confusion in the area. As a result, staff are recommending that the existing all-way stop control be removed. When questioned by Councillor C. Weylie, it was noted that only the Regional Police can enforce the compliance with the existing all-way stop control. On motion by Councillor C. Weylie - it was resolved: "That the existing the all-way stop control be removed from the intersection of Indian Road and Montcalm Drive, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 5. DOPWR 94-44 -On-Street Parkinq - Heritaqe Drive The Committee considered a report which recommends various parking prohibitions on Heritage Drive. It was noted that, with the implementation of the traffic calming measures on Heritage Drive, the travelled portion of the road has been reduced in width and nodes have been developed. As a result, amended parking regulations must be approved. When questioned by Councillor T. Galloway, Mr. D. Snow advised that the area residents have been aware of the new parking proposals by way of the Open Houses that were held. Mr. Snow advised the Committee that the work on Heritage Drive is nearing completion and the street will be opened on September 1, 1994. On motion by Councillor T. Galloway - it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited on the north side of Heritage Drive from a point 73 metres east of Oakhurst Crescent (west intersection) to a point 84 metres east of Oakhurst Crescent (east intersection), and further, That parking be prohibited on the north side of Heritage Drive from Ottawa Street to a point 100 metres west thereof, and further, That parking be prohibited on the south side of Heritage Drive from Lorraine Avenue to a point 169 metres east thereof, and further, 5. DOPWR 94-44 - On-Street Parkinq - Heritaqe Drive (Cont'd) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 15, 1994 - 55 - CITY OF KITCHENER That parking be prohibited on the south side of Heritage Drive from a point 83 metres west of Indian Road to a point 128 metres west thereof, and further, That parking be prohibited on the south side of Heritage Drive from a point 37 metres west of Indian Road to a point 24 metres east of Indian Road, and further, That parking be prohibited on the south side of Heritage Drive from a point 52 metres east of Indian Road to Ottawa Street North, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 6. DOPWR 94-45 - School Pedestrian Safety - Modifications for the 1994-95 School Year The Committee considered a report containing an action plan advising members of the Committee of an action plan containing adjustments and reviews which are being undertaken by staff so that necessary changes can be made as they relate to school traffic safety. It was noted that the changes recommended for the 1994-95 school year are as follows: 1.The removal of the Briar Avenue at Moore Avenue crossing guard facility due to the closure of Sacred Heart Separate School. 2.The review and possible removal of the Weber Street West at Wilhelm Street crossing guard facility due to the closure of Sacred Heart Separate School. 3.The relocation of the crossing guard facility on Courtland Avenue between Cedar Street and Peter Street. 4.The formation of an ad hoc student safety patrol review committee. 5.Crossing guard timing adjustments to accommodate the new bell times of the Waterloo County Board of Education. 6.Continuation of the School Traffic Safety Watch Program. 7.Installation of a student safety patrol assisted school crossing on Lorne Avenue at St. Bernadette Separate School. When questioned by the Committee, Mr. Snow pointed out that the entire issue of student safety patrols will be discussed as part of Item #4 listed above. Councillor T. Galloway referred to the possible need for a school crossing guard at the intersection of Rittenhouse Drive and Erinbrook Drive. In this regard, Mr. D. Snow pointed out that this intersection along with many others will be reviewed early in the Fall after the schools have re-opened and traffic patterns have been established. Mr. Snow also advised the Committee that if crossing guards are required over the noon hour they will continue to be provided. Councillor M. Yantzi entered the meeting at this time. On motion by Councillor M. Wagner - it was resolved: "That the 1994-95 Action Plan regarding school pedestrian safety, as presented to the Public Works and Transportation Committee on August 15, 1994, be accepted." 7.DOPWR 94-46 -On-Street Parkinq - Peter Street The Committee was advised that a request has been received from a local resident to have parking eliminated on one side of Peter Street between Church Street and St. George Street. A 7. DOPWR 94-46 - On-Street Parkinq - Peter Street (Cont'd) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 15, 1994 - 56 - CITY OF KITCHENER questionnaire has been circulated and the majority of those responding have indicated their support for a parking prohibition on the west side of the street. When questioned by Councillor M. Yantzi, Mr. D. Snow suggested that the existing parking on Peter Street does not create any more of a hazard than would be created on any other street within the City. It was noted, however, that a request to have a parking prohibition imposed has been received and the majority of the residents responding indicate that they support this course of action. It was further noted that the matter can be reviewed at a later date. On motion by Councillor C. Weylie - it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited on the west side of Peter Street from Church Street to St. George Street, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 8. DOPWR 94-47 - On-Street Parking - Westview Crescent The Committee was advised that requests have been received from local residents, through Councillor G. Lorentz, to have parking eliminated on one side of Westview Crescent between Rolling Meadows Drive and Westheights Drive. It was noted that there is a neighbourhood park in this area which is actively used for T-Ball during the months of May and June. Parking on both sides of the street create visibility problems and the potential for collisions. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler - it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited on the odd numbered side of Westview Crescent from Rolling Meadows Drive to Westheights Drive, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 9. DOPWR 94-48 - Painting of City Hall Parking Columns Councillor J. Ziegler had suggested to staff that a 6 inch green reflective band be painted on each pillar or column in the City Hall parking garage to provide motorists with a better view of these obstacles while they manoeuvre in and out of parking spaces. Councillor J. Ziegler noted that staff are recommending that no action be taken in this regard because there has only been one reported incident. Councillor Ziegler also noted, however, that in their report, staff do acknowledge that existing supplies would allow this job to be undertaken at little or no additional cost to the City. In this regard, it was the view of Councillor Ziegler that, at least, those pillars adjacent to the outside walls of the parking garage should be painted with a 6 inch green band. Councillor M. Wagner indicated that he would support the views presented by Councillor Ziegler because he has seen at least one person damage their vehicle by backing into one of the pillars. Councillor Wagner pointed out that this individual left the parking garage very quickly and it was unlikely that the incident was ever reported. Following further discussion and on motion by Councillor J. Ziegler - it was resolved: "That 6 inch green bands be painted on those columns in the City Hall parking garage which are located adjacent to outside walls, and further, That the use of glass beads in the paint to increase reflectivity be left to the discretion of City staff." 9. DOPWR 94-48 - Painting of City Hall Parking Columns (Cont'd) Councillor M. Wagner expressed the view that steps should be taken to delineate traffic lanes within the parking garage. It was agreed that this matter would be left with Mr. Snow to review. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 15, 1994 - 57 - CITY OF KITCHENER 10. DOPWR 94-51 - Twenty-Four (24) Hour By-law Enforcement A report regarding the enforcement of various parking prohibitions on City streets was presented to the Committee for their consideration. Councillor C. Weylie advised that the following individuals have expressed concern about the lack of parking on City streets on an overnight basis, namely: Mr. John Yost and Mr. Mike Pschakowski. Councillor M. Yantzi also indicated that he was aware of people who would have liked to appear as a delegation regarding this matter but could not be available to attend todays meeting on short notice. Councillor M. Galloway pointed out that, in the past, he has expressed concern about increased enforcement of parking regulations in non-problem areas such as crescents and cul-de-sacs. Councillor Galloway advised that he is still of the view that enforcement should be concentrated in the high density areas because there are usually more problems and, accordingly, more enforcement is required. Councillor M. Wagner advised that the Adaptive Re-Use of Buildings Committee will be making a recommendation to the Committee regarding on-street permit parking. Mr. D. Snow advised the Committee that there are problems with allowing on-street permit parking and a report was prepared in 1990 in this regard. Mr. Snow also pointed out that problems can be created when regulations are not enforced the same in one area as they are in another. Following further discussion it was agreed that consideration of this report would be deferred to the Public Works and Transportation Committee meeting to be held on September 19, 1994. Mr. Snow will make available copies of his 1990 report regarding on-street permit parking as part of the agenda for that meeting. 11 .City Hall Parking Garage - Hours of Operation Councillor B. Stortz appeared before the Committee and pointed out that the City Hall parking garage presently closes at 12:00 midnight, 7 days a week. This course of action discourages people from using the parking garage on weekends because if they should stay later than 12:00 midnight they find that there vehicles have been locked inside the garage. Councillor Stortz pointed out that there are a lot of people in the Downtown area, particularly, on weekends during the early morning hours. In addition to the parking garage being closed, Councillor Stortz questioned the advisibility of having no building security available during this period of time. Councillor Stortz suggested to the members of the Committee that consideration should be given to keeping the City Hall parking garage open until 2:00 a.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Mr. J. McBride advised the Committee that an agreement has been worked out with Mr. T. DiBattista which resulted in security officers remaining on duty up to 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings to accommodate patrons of the Lyric Nightclub. Mr. McBride pointed out, however, that to continue with this agreement on a year round basis would result in additional costs of approximately $20,000.00 and an anticipated additional revenue of approximately $4,000.00. In this regard, Councillor B. Stortz expressed the opinion that if the garage were kept open until 2:00 p.m. the use would increase and so would the revenue. 11 .City Hall Parking Garage - Hours of Operation (Cont'd) Following further discussion and on motion by Councillor M. Wagner - it was resolved: "That the hours of operation for the City Hall parking garage be extended to 2:00 a.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays." PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 15, 1994 - 58 - CITY OF KITCHENER 12. DOPWR 94-52 - 1994 Market Square Garaqe Repairs The Committee received a report outlining problems with the Market Square parking garage. It was noted that a structural monitoring survey was undertaken in 1991 with varying amounts of deterioration being discovered on levels B4, B5 and B6. A further survey was undertaken early this year and it was discovered that the amount of deterioration had increased dramatically. The City's Structural Engineer, Morrison Hershfield Ltd., has recommended against proceeding with any further repairs to the B4 level because based on the extent of the deterioration it would appear that the only real solution to the problem is a total replacement of the slab. A new structural slab with appropriate waterproofing would cost approximately $300,000.00 and take about 15 weeks to complete. The Committee was advised that the B5 and B6 levels would likely require the same course of action with the cost being an additional $900,000.00. The Committee was advised that a further option would be to permanently close the exposed deck which would result in the loss of 119 parking spaces. This option would only create a problem during those periods when the Farmers' Market is open. It was further noted, however, that a decision to close levels B4, B5 and B6 would still leave the situation where the slabs would have to be removed at some time in the future because as they continue to weaken they would not be able to support their own weight. When questioned by Councillor J. Ziegler, Mr. McBride pointed out that a roof to protect the existing parking structure does not overcome the existing deterioration problems and the concrete slabs would still have to be removed because of the level of deterioration. Mr. McBride pointed out that it is unlikely that a similar problem would be encountered with new slabs because of new methods of construction which minimize the amount of salt which can work its way into the structure. The Committee directed staff to continue to investigate possible repair/replacement scenarios with the professional people that have been retained in this regard. Further reports will be made to the Public Works and Transportation Committee and this matter will, no doubt, be reviewed as part of the 1995 budget considerations. Staff were requested to provide members of the Committee with a resum~ of monies that have been spent for repairs to the Market parking garage over the last 10 years. 13. Borden Greenwa¥ Culvert - Additional Fundinq The Committee was advised that the existing culvert at Westmount Road and the Borden Greenway is too small to accommodate the present Regional storm flows and replacement has been recommended. The tenders for this job have been received and it is found that an additional $70,000.00 is required to cover the cost of this work. When questioned by Councillor T. Galloway, Mr. D. Mansell advised that when this job is completed the existing floodlines will be reviewed by the Grand River Conservation Authority and, where appropriate, these will be adjusted. At that time, consideration can be given to removing restrictive covenants which have been placed on the title of lands in this area. Councillor M. Wagner referred to a cost of approximately $7,300.00 to accelerate the pole relocation work in this area. In this regard, Mr. Mansell pointed out that the City would have been 13. Borden Greenwa¥ Culvert -Additional Fundinq (Cont'd) charged approximately $10,000.00 to support a significant hydro pole in this area and, accordingly, the City will actually be saving approximately $2,700.00 by agreeing to having the pole relocation work accelerated. On motion by His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo - it was resolved: "That Council for the City of Kitchener authorize the expenditure of $70,000.00 in additional monies from PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 15, 1994 - 59 - CITY OF KITCHENER the Development Charge (Lot Levy) fund in order to cover the cost of the Borden Greenway Culvert replacement under Westmount Road at the Borden Greenway." 14.1994 Fall Leaf Collection The Committee was advised that staff are recommending improvements to the leaf collection program from those provided in 1993. In 1994, 2 options are being suggested. Bagged leaves will continue to be picked up, however, these pick-ups would be augmented with roadside collections by City sweepers. The appropriate dates will be advertised to the residents of the City. Councillor J. Ziegler questioned why the raking of leaves onto Regional roads would not be permitted. In this regard, Mr. S. Gyorffy suggested that traffic hazards would be created and also the amount of traffic involved would, no doubt, result in the leaves being blown off the street, back onto residential properties. When questioned by the Committee, Mr. Gyorffy agreed that raking leaves onto the roadway is prohibited by by-law, however, it is staff's recommendation that enforcement of this part of the by-law be waived for a period of approximately 6 weeks. The members of the Committee congratulated staff for the presentation of a new program which appears to be superior to the program offered in 1993. On motion by His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo - it was resolved: "That the City provide both loose and bagged leaf collection service at the roadside, and further, That residents be permitted to rake leaves to the roadside for collection by City street sweepers only during designated collection weeks, and further, That raking to the roadside not be permitted on any Regional road, and further, That each household receive two separate Saturday collections of bagged leaves and three separate one-week collection periods for loose leaves at the roadside." 15.Informational Reports The following informational reports were provided to the Committee: (a)Traffic & Parking - Special Events Log (b)Actions Taken - Passenger Alighting Incidents (c)Press Release - Kitchener Transit Passenger Injuries (d)Public Works Department - Projects in Progress 16.Sidewalk Rampinq Councillor M. Wagner requested information regarding the progress of sidewalk ramping which is presently being undertaken at many intersections and when this work will be completed on a City- wide basis. Councillor Wagner indicated that when this work is completed the result will be more people riding bicycles on sidewalks which will become a matter of concern. 16.Sidewalk Rampinq (Cont'd) Staff were directed to respond directly to Councillor Wagner regarding this matter to provide him with information which he can present to the Bicycle Committee. 17. Buses - Cameras Councillor J. Ziegler requested staff to review the possibility of installing cameras on the outside of buses which could be focused on the rear doors. It was the view of Councillor Ziegler that this course of action would provide drivers with a better view of the rear door than is the case with the present mirrors. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 15, 1994 - 60 - CITY OF KITCHENER 1 $. B.F.I. - Garbaqe Contract Councillor T. Galloway requested information from staff regarding the number of tons of garbage per year which is presently being handled in the City of Kitchener and whether or not B.F.I. could take this garbage to a location other than the Regional landfill site. Staff was directed to obtain this information and provide it directly to Councillor Galloway. 19.Adjournment On motion, the meeting adjourned at 10:30 a.m. L.F. Parkhouse, AMCT Deputy City Clerk