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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works - 1992-04-27PWTC\1992-04-27 PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES APRIL 27, 1992 The Public Works and Transportation Committee met this date under the Chairmanship of Alderman J. Smola with the following members present: Alderman C. Weylie, Alderman M. Wagner and Alderman G. Lorentz. His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo, Alderman M. Galloway and Alderman J. Ziegler were in attendance for part of the meeting. Others Present: Alderman C. Zehr and Messrs. J. Webster, J. Cicuttin, J. O'Rourke, B. Liddle, D. Suzuki, S. Gyorffy, D. Collie, W. Beck, D. Snow, J. McBride, E. Kovacs, T. McKay, L. Lynch, R. Schirm and L.F. Parkhouse. This meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee commenced at 9:10 a.m. 1. Fourth Avenue Transit Options This problem originally arose after Fourth Avenue received a tar and chip resurfacing. The number and speed of buses was creating a dust problem in the area. At that time it was agreed that Transit staff would evaluate the situtation to determine whether or not it was possible to change some of the existing routes so that buses would use other streets in the area. Mr. S. Tanfield appeared before the Committee and pointed out that this matter was considered by City Council in September 1991 and all that has been received at this time is a report which basically recommends that no changes be made. Alderman T. Galloway entered the meeting at this time. Mr. Tanfield pointed out that senior citizens in the area have indicated a need for expanded services during the evening hours and on Sundays, however, the report as submitted recommends that this course of action not be taken. Mr. Tanfield also pointed out that the majority of the residents on Fourth Avenue are concerned with the number of buses using this street and it is not only his personal crusade. Alderman J. Ziegler entered the meeting at this time. Mr. Tanfield pointed out to the Committee that there is no question that buses must use Fourth Avenue but he is of the opinion that route changes are required to provide the residents of the Cedarwoods Crescent/Kingsway Drive area with appropriate levels of service. In this regard, it was suggested that route changes are possible which would increase the level of service to other areas while reducing the existing problems on Fourth Avenue. In conclusion, Mr. Tanfield also expressed concern because it would appear that Transit drivers are slowing down in front of his house, revving the bus motors and making various hand gestures. It was suggested that this conduct is totally inappropriate and unnecessary. When questioned by Alderman J. Ziegler, Mr. W. Beck, Director of Transit, indicated that a house to house survey has not been undertaken to determine where the people live that ride on the buses using Fourth Avenue. It was the view of Alderman Ziegler that staff had not appropriately investigated the problem and no public meeting was held to determine whether or not any other options are available. It would appear that a staff report has been prepared rejecting everything but the status quo. His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo entered the meeting at this time. Mr. W. Mazmanian, President - CBRT Local #304, appeared before the Committee in regard to a 40 kph speed limit which was approved for Fourth Avenue. It was the view of Mr. Mazmanian that the lowering of the speed limit was totally inappropriate particularly when the speed limit on all other streets in the area is 50 kph even in the school zones. It was the view of Mr. Mazmanian that the Regional Police were paying too much attention to the speed of buses on Fourth Avenue. When questioned by Alderman C. Weylie, Mr. Mazmanian indicated that he was not personally aware of any drivers slowing down, revving their motors and making inappropriate gestures in front of the Tanfield residence. 1. Fourth Avenue Transit Options (Cont'd) PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES - 27 - APRIL 27, 1992 Alderman J. Ziegler pointed out that at the time the speed limit on Fourth Avenue was reduced it was his understanding that staff was to undertake a complete study to determine whether or not any routes could be changed so that the frequency of buses on Fourth Avenue could be reduced. Once these options were prepared they would then be discussed at a public meeting. Alderman Ziegler pointed out that to the best of his knowledge no public meeting has been held to discuss this matter and, accordingly, any decision should be deferred until such a meeting has been arranged. Mr. W. Beck advised the Committee that staff has investigated the situtation and the possibility of using alternative routes has been considered. From a staff point of view it is suggested that this course of action will only move any existing problems from one street to another and create additional expenses from a road maintenance and transit service point of view. Alderman J. Ziegler introduced a motion which would defer action regarding the Fourth Avenue situation until such time as a public meeting had been held. This motion was put to a vote and was defeated. On motion by His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo - it was resolved: "That the current routing on Fourth Avenue be maintained, and further, That the level of service during evenings and Sundays on Route #7 not be increased." 2.Transit Service Improvements - Stanley Park, Grand River, Idlewood & Herita.qe Park - Forest Heiqhts, Forest Heiqhts West, Forest Hill & St. Mary's The Committee considered a report co-authored by Mr. J. Cicuttin, Manager of Transit Planning, and Mr. W. Beck, Director of Transit. This report outlines major service improvements to routes which are being recommended for certain areas on the east side of the City and some minor service improvements for routes serving the west side of the City. The changes as proposed will improve service in the following areas: -schedule adherence problems on Route #1 (Stanley Park - Queen South) -poor midday ridership and passenger confusion on Route #3 (Heritage Park) -travel demands between the east side of the City and Fairview Mall -operational problems on Route #2 (Forest Hill) -demand for evening service on Route #15 (Forest Heights West). The Committee was advised that the service improvements as proposed were presented at two public meetings and the feedback received was positive. When questioned by Alderman C. Weylie, Mr. Beck pointed out that the possibility of extending Route #8 along Belmont Avenue to Queen's Boulevard is being considered, however, there are some engineering problems. Improvements would be required to the intersection of Belmont Avenue and Queen's Boulevard and it is anticipated that these would be costly. On motion by Alderman M. Wagner- it was resolved: "That the Transit Service Improvements for the Stanley Park, Grand River, Idlewood, St. Mary's, Forest Heights and Forest Hill residential areas, as presented to the Public Works and Transportation Committee on April 27, 1992, be adopted and implemented with the summer schedule on June 15, 1992, and further, That the approved routings operate in accordance with the level of service as contained in Table 1 which is attached hereto and forms part of these minutes." 3. DOTR 92-9 - Duke/Ontario & Market Square Garaqe Restorations The Committee was advised that the consulting engineering firm of Morrison Hershfield Limited has been retained for a number of years to oversee restoration work to the Duke/Ontario Garage and the Market Square Garage. The purpose of the report being considered by the Committee PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES - 28 - APRIL 27, 1992 at this time is to reallocate funding from various projects so that soffit delamination repairs can be made to the upper Market level and other critical areas throughout the Market Square Garage during 1992. The report, as presented, also contained a schedule of restoration work for both parking garages and this is attached hereto and forms part of these minutes. On motion by Alderman T. Galloway - it was resolved: "That funds originally approved for the repair of expansion joints in the Duke/Ontario Garage and repairs of a portion of the delaminated concrete and debonding of the Rub-R-Road in the Market Square Garage in 1992 be allocated for soffit delamination repairs on the Upper Market level as well as critical areas throughout the garage in 1992, and further, That the schedule of restoration work for both the Duke/Ontario and Market Square Garages, as presented to the Public Works and Transportation Committee on April 27, 1992, be adopted for inclusion in future capital budgets." 4. DOTR 92-12 - Traffic Control - Kennedy Avenue The Committee considered a report which recommends that a stop control intersection of Kennedy Avenue and Palmer Avenue. This course recommended as the result of site inspections at this location. be installed at the of action is being On motion by Alderman T. Galloway - it was resolved: "That a stop control be installed at the following location: Kennedy Avenue at Palmer Avenue, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 5. DOTR 92-13 - School Pedestrian Safety - Laurentian Drive at Westmount Road The Committee considered a report which indicates that the safety of the school crossing at the intersection of Laurentian Drive and Westmount Road has deteriorated to the point that the only way to ensure the safe crossing of pedestrians is to install a traffic control signal. It was noted that funds were included in the 1992 budget for such an installation, however, these funds were earmarked to be used at the intersection of River Road and Kinsey Avenue. The staff of the Traffic and Parking Division, however, are of the opinion that the existing problems at Laurentian Drive and Westmount Road should be the top priority. The signalization of the River Road and Kinzie Avenue intersection will be discussed later in these minutes. On motion by Alderman T. Galloway - it was resolved: "That a traffic control signal be installed at the intersection of Westmount Road and Laurentian Drive, and further, That the facility be funded by the City of Kitchener's Capital Budget, and further, That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo be requested to pursue subsidy from the Ministry of Transportation for these signals." 6.DOTR 92-14 - School Pedestrian Safety - Pioneer Drive/Pioneer Park Public School The Committee was advised that a request has been received to have an Adult Crossing Guard facility installed on Pioneer Drive at the stairway north of Doon Village Road. This request has been reviewed by staff and the establishment of an Adult Crossing Guard is being recommended to commence on the first day of the 1992-93 school year. On motion by Alderman T. Galloway - PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES - 29 - APRIL 27, 1992 it was resolved: "That an Adult Crossing Guard facility be established at the school crossing on Pioneer Drive at the stairway north of Doon Village Road commencing on the first day of school in September 1992." 7.DOTR 92-15 -On-Street Parkinq - Franklin Street The Committee considered a report which recommends that parking be prohibited on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the north side of Franklin Street from Bradley Drive to a point 133 metres to the west. The approval of this request would overcome on-street parking problems which are generated by activities at Midland Park. The residents of the area have been contacted and support the recommended parking prohibition. On motion by Alderman T. Galloway - it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., on the north side of Franklin Street from Bradley Drive to a point 133 metres west thereof, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 8.DOTR 92-16 - Proposed Closure of Glasqow Street between University Avenue and West Hill Drive The Committee considered a report which outlines the significant hazard which has existed at the intersection of Glasgow Street and West Hill Drive for many years. This hazard is caused by the geometry of the road and limited visibility. Due to growth in surrounding areas, traffic volumes on Glasgow Street have increased substantially and the potential for vehicular conflict has increased proportionately. The Committee was asked to approve the implementations of a review of this situation which may ultimately lead to the closing of a portion of Glasgow Street. On motion by Alderman T. Galloway - it was resolved: "That the following procedures be implemented regarding the consideration of the possible closure of Glasgow Street between University Avenue and West Hill Drive, namely: -solicit the views and opinions of the property owners directly affected; -solicit the views and opinions of the appropriate agencies and utilities; -advertise the proposed closure through the placement of signs at the points where the closure would impact traffic, i.e. University Avenue and West Hill Drive; and, -after reviewing the responses, if a consensus is reached, upon the direction of Council, the formal procedures for a road closure would be implemented." 9.Intersection Siqnalization - River Road and Kinzie Avenue Alderman C. Zehr referred to the existing school pedestrian safety problem at the intersection of Laurentian Drive and Westmount Road which was considered earlier at this meeting with the recommendation being that 9.Intersection Siqnalization - River Road and Kinzie Avenue (Cont'd) traffic signals be installed. It was noted that a similar problem exists at the intersection of Kinzie Avenue and River Road and at one time the Region was going to install a refuge island which would assist pedestrians crossing River Road. The area residents were concerned that this course of action would not provide adequate safety and signals would be eventually required. As a result, monies were included in the 1992 budget so that signals could be installed at this intersection. It would now appear that staff are recommending that this money be used for the traffic signals at the intersection of Laurentian Drive and Westmount Road. Alderman Zehr acknowledged that there are problems at both intersections and it would appear that Regional staff are prepared to recommend that approximately $15,000.00 which would have been spent PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES - 30 - APRIL 27, 1992 on the refuge island could be used to install traffic signals. This would leave a shortfall of approximately $55,000.00. Alderman Zehr would like to see the intersection of Kinzie Avenue and River Road signalized at this time and it was suggested that the funds required could be taken from the Capital Project Contingency Account. Alderman C. Weylie reminded the Committee that the traffic warrants at the intersection of Hazelglen Drive and Victoria Street South are close to allowing this intersection to be signalized. It was the view of Alderman Weylie that if other intersections are going to be considered for signalization at the City's expense the intersection of Hazelglen Drive and Victoria Street South should also be considered. Alderman J. Ziegler was of the view that the City should take steps to install a refuge island at an appropriate location so that its effectiveness can be studied prior to signalization becoming a necessity. By following this course of action it could be determined whether or not these islands work appropriately and, if they do, it may eliminate the need for signalization at a specific intersection. On motion by Alderman G. Lorentz- it was resolved: "That, subject to City Council receiving information regarding costs and possible sources of funding, that a traffic control signal be installed at the intersection of Kinzie Avenue and River Road." 10.Natural Gas Policy The Committee received reports co-authored by Messrs. E. Kovacs, Director of Utilities and D. Collie, Manager of Customer Relations and Marketing, containing recommendations regarding the following items: -approval of new gas rates effective April 1, 1992 -a one time rebate to natural gas customers -the City of Kitchener entering into direct purchase arrangements regarding the supply of natural gas for City-owned and associated facilities. There was no discussion by the Committee regarding the new gas rates which are to become effective April 1, 1992. In regard to the one time rebate it was noted that this would only be available to natural gas customers who have not entered into a direct purchase arrangement. There was discussion as to the form of the rebate with a credit on the next gas bill, a rebate cheque and a credit to the tax bill being considered. The Committee was advised that it is staff's intention that a rebate cheque will be issued to each gas customer. It was noted that it is not appropriate to place the monies in the Rate Stabilization Fund into General City Revenues because not all property owners are gas users and it is only gas users who should receive the rebate. Several members of the Committee expressed the view that staff must take steps to ensure that those people receiving the rebate know exactly why they are getting it and who it is coming from. It must be made clear to 10.Natural Gas Policy (Cont'd) the gas users that this rebate has nothing to do with them entering into a direct purchase agreement with a private broker. In regard to the City entering into a direct purchase agreement regarding the supply of natural gas for its own or associated facilities it was noted that on a short term basis costs will be reduced, however, there will also be the normal business risks. It was noted that many other municipalities and public bodies are entering into these arrangements and Mr. T. McKay recommended that the City of Kitchener also become involved. On motion by His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo - PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES - 31 - APRIL 27, 1992 it was resolved: "That, effective April 1, 1992, the rates for natural gas, as approved by the Ontario Energy Board and presented to the Public Works and Transportation Committee on April 27, 1992, be adopted, and further, That a one time rebate be approved to disburse the accummulated funds in the Rate Stabilization Fund to all natural gas customers who have not entered into a direct purchase arrangement, and further, That the Utilities Division of the Department of Public Works make the necessary arrangements to secure a direct purchase supply of natural gas for the City of Kitchener's owned or associated facilities and that the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the necessary contracts." 11 .Ministry of the Environment - Recycling Grant The Committee considered a report from Mr. B. Musselman, Supervisor of Operations Administration, advising that the City of Kitchener can now collect 33% of the cost of operating its Blue Box Program. This will result in a grant to the municipality of approximately $240,000.00 per year for the next three years. On motion by Alderman C. Weylie - it was resolved: "That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute an agreement with the Ministry of the Environment (M.O.E.) entitling the City of Kitchener to provincial funding for the Blue Box Recycling Program." 12. Margaret Avenue Project For information purposes, the Committee received a letter from Mr. D. Suzuki, Commissioner of Public Works, in which he advises that Kraushaar Real Estate Inc. is not prepared to install ornamental lighting as part of its Margaret Avenue project and, accordingly, Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro has been instructed to proceed with the transfer of the existing street light fixtures from the old to the new poles. 13.1992 Annual Program for Concrete Sidewalk and Curb Construction and Repair For information purposes, the Committee received a report prepared by Mr. L. Lynch, Manager of Roads and Engineering Services, regarding sidewalk construction and repairs for 1992. 14.1992 Program for Resurfacing of Various City Streets For information purposes, the Committee received a listing of streets which will be resurfaced as part of the 1992 Program. Alderman G. Lorentz referred to the resurfacing of Elmridge Drive between Queen's Boulevard and Silver Aspen Crescent and questioned why the entire street would not be resurfaced at this time. In this regard, Mr. L. Lynch pointed out that it is a question of available funding and the balance of the street will be resurfaced at some time in the future. 15.Monthly Report - Operations and Engineering Divisions - Department of Public Works The members of the Committee received the monthly information report from the Operations and Engineering Divisions of the Department of Public Works. Mr. B. Liddle, Director of Engineering, referred to his report and pointed out that Item #16 should refer to the Royal Orchard Flooding Study rather than the Rolling Meadows Flooding Study. The Committee was advised that the Royal Orchard Flooding Study should be completed by the fall of this year, however, it was noted that the resolution of the existing problems may be expensive. 16.Schneider Trunk Sewer PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES - 32 - APRIL 27, 1992 Alderman M. Wagner pointed out that as the result of recent heavy rains there has been flooding in the Bedford Road area of the City. As a result, he has requested Mr. D. Suzuki, Commissioner of Public Works, to provide him with a report regarding the Schneider Trunk works. 17.1991 Annual Report- Public Works Department The consideration of the 1991 Department of Public Works Annual Report was deferred to a future meeting of the Committee. 18. Adjournment On motion, the meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m. L.F. Parkhouse Deputy City Clerk