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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSD-17-070 - Queen Street Placemaking Plan REPORT TO: Committee of Council DATE OF MEETING: August 21, 2017 SUBMITTED BY: Alain Pinard, Director of Planning PREPARED BY: Brandon Sloan, Manager, Long Range & Policy Planning 519-741-2200 x7648 WARD(S) INVOLVED: All Wards DATE OF REPORT: August 10, 2017 REPORT NO.: CSD-17-070 SUBJECT: Placemaking Plan For Improvements to Queen Street and Associated City- Owned Spaces (Charles to Duke), Parts of Goudies Lane, and Vogelsang Green ______________________________________________________________________ RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Urban Design Manual; and THAT any unfunded Operating and Capital costs in support of the Queen Street Placemaking Plan be referred to the 2018 budget process; and further That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute a new agreement and any future amendments, prepared to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, with the owner of 15 Duke Street to continue to provide the City a license to occupy, maintain, and allow public access to Vogelsang Green and Cenotaph Green. BACKGROUND: In May 2016, Council approved the Planning Around Rapid Transit Stations (PARTS): Central Plan. That plan consolidated the vision for how growth in the areas around 6 of the central LRT stations should be shaped in order to positively contribute to the health and vitality of our community. The PARTS: Central Plan identified opportunities for placemaking and recommended the creation of a plan for Queen Street as a tool for the enhancement of spaces for people. The parks and public realm vision within the PARTS: Central Plan identified enhancements for Vogelsang Green and Goudies Lane. In June of 2017, City Council approved three new strategic priorities under the Shape DTK 2020 plan, including 1) Ignite Downtown as a Platform for the Next Generation of Urban Shops, Restaurants, Businesses & Services; 2) Foster and Support Heartfelt Urban Experiences; and 3) Champion a Caring & Collaborative Community. *** This information is available in accessible formats upon request. *** Please call 519-741-2345 or TTY 1-866-969-9994 for assistance. 1 - 1 REPORT This initiative combines several different potential projects and considerations into one plan. The study area includes the Queen Street right-of-way (essentially building face to building face) from Duke Street to Charles Street, Vogelsang Green, the City-owned space at Queen/Charles Streets across from the LRT station, and Goudies Lane for approximately 50 metres on either side of Queen Street. There are considerations for other small spaces, entrances to Halls Lane and potentially adjacent private land. Figure 1: Study Area The Purpose Prior to preparing the detailed design/tender construction drawings for the road resurfacing of Queen Street, the redevelopment of Vogelsang Green,and to tie in other opportunities such as Goudies Lane; an overall master plan is being created to guide the future capital works along with operating and maintenance implications.A comprehensive Placemaking Plan will identify design and streetscaping opportunities beyond typical standard treatments and will help guide future budgeting (hereafter ). 1 - 2 Placemaking:Turning underutilized spaces into great, memorable places for people. Plan:design drawing that coordinates public and private investment for things like street lighting, seating, landscaping, sidewalks, etc. Figure 2: Rendering of Potential Based on the Queen Street Placemaking Plan The Process During the Fall of 2016, Engineering and Asset Management staff identified that there was an opportunity to consider a plan for possible streetscape enhancements on Queen Street prior to road (and sidewalk) resurfacing works that were newly added to the budget for 2019. Around the same time, Operations - Design & Development staff noted that Vogelsang Green is to be refurbished in the next few years and Planning, Economic Development and Transportation Services staff were working on ideas for temporary placemaking in a portion of Goudies Lane. A collaborative process ensued to tie everything together into one Placemaking Plan. From February July 2017, staff from different divisions and sections of the City, along with Stantec Consulting Ltd., collaborated on the principles, conceptual design options, streetscape elements, maintenance and operational implications, community and stakeholder engagement, asset management approach and the preferred plan. A multi-facetted engagement process generated numerous ideas that led to the conceptual design options, helped vet and prioritize the different placemaking elements and ultimately provided some influence to the preferred plan (see Community Engagement section of this report and attachments). 1 - 3 The Past and Existing Context During the 1980s, a number of projects were undertaken via the Commercial Area Improvement Program (supported by provincial funding at the time). These improvements included reconstruction of sidewalks on Queen Street from Duke to Charles, replacement of street lighting on Queen Street and a new parkette on Queen Street at Goudies Lane. After 30 years, these features have reached their lifecycle and are in need of significant repair, replacement or other decision. Goudies Lane, Vogelsang Green and other surface features are in rough shape and need attention. Figure 3: Queen Street (towards Charles St) Figure 4: Queen Street (towards Duke St) Figure 5: Goudies Lane (towards Ontario St) Figure 6: Goudies Lane (towards Frederick St) Figure 7: Vogelsang Green at Queen St Figure 8: City Land at Queen/Charles St 1 - 4 The Opportunity This location is at an important crossroads in Downtown Kitchener and contains one of the highest concentrations of significant cultural heritage resources in the City. The emphasize the importance of locations such as this for contributing to a vibrant, active streetscape with a focus on pedestrian activity and superb design. The Council approved PARTS: Central Plan highlights Queen Street as one of several key mobility routes between LRT stations and downtown destinations. The LRT route runs on Duke Street and Charles Street immediately on either end of the subject area. Queen Street was added to the sharrow and signed bike route network in a 2014 downtown cycling improvements report and there is further provincial requirements and local direction for It is also a link to important cultural and civic institutions. Queen Street possesses all the right ingredients to be transformed over time into aretail and service destination. Most notably, continuous stretches of small stores that are ideal for entrepreneurial/start up/new retail experiences. A distinct streetscape would enable the City and BIA to work together to attract more retailers into what could one day become a regional niche shopping destination. Combining the Queen Street resurfacing work, Vogelsang Green redevelopment and Laneway enhancements into one design and project can provide efficiencies and a better plan. So far, the temporary placemaking actions in Goudies Lane are quite successful and we should move forward with more permanent solutions. Also, people are telling us that they support making this a great place. If everyone has to go through years of construction, we better get some great public spaces at the end of it! Given the transformations happening in this area (Walper site, food store, tech, American Hotel Site, etc.), the time is now to capitalize onpotentialpartnership opportunities.Public investment in creating great places often leads to further private investment. Essentially, aPlacemaking Plan could both incent and support growth. Figure 9: Potential Opportunity (a place to go and many reasons to linger) 1 - 5 The Reality Space is limited! The Queen Street right of way is narrow (and the laneways as well) andmost buildings are to the property line. There is no room to have a segregated bike lane, really wide sidewalks, a full site furnishing zone (i.e. designated space for seating, planters, etc.), vehicular lanes and utility accommodations.The impact this has on the the preference is to blend those spaces together. Emergency! Queen Street is a designated emergency route and for health and safety reasons must remain open even during special events and festivals. This is also an important vehicular route through the downtown and connecting to destinations on either side (there will beno Benton Street diversion so we will have to keep Queen Street open at least for a little while longer although this place could be more valuable than just a through route). Snow! We need to plow it (and/or remove it). The snow plow vehicles need 3.4m width for the blade so that they do not go into an opposing lane. That provides a given requirement for the road cross-section and determines how much is left for sidewalks. Maintenance! The annual and ongoing operational issues are a practical reality for any capital and placemaking work. Using granite, paver stones, permeable pavers and other decorative materials yield maintenance issues, especially in our climate. Although they look nice at first, they could quickly end up providing tripping or safety hazards (consider mobility and accessibility) and need to often be repaired or replaced. The more expensive and nice the feature, likely the more expensive it will be to maintain and replace it. Therefore, we need to consider the annual maintenance and replacement costs and not just the up- Accessibility! In addition to the above, certain accessibility requirements may pose a challenge for the height of door openings vs. sidewalk,the need for ramps, etc. This requires further attention during detailed design/construction. The Feds! The Federal Government owns the land that includes Vogelsang Green and the lane behind it (theyare supportive of the design but the laneway must remain open and paved). Also, there are a variety of different landowners along Queen Street that are at different stages and evolutions in the investment in their buildings and facades. The Community! Through the recent Shape DTK 2020 consultations, the community clearly articulated a desire for 1) more and better shops and services, 2) unique urban experiences; and, 3) a strong sense of community. These strategic priorities were recently endorsed by Council as part of the Shape DTK 2020 plan. Thus, the challenge of the Placemaking Plan is to develop a compelling vision for Queen Street that reflects these priorities, yet considers the constraints the physical space presents. The Placemaking Plan The preferred plan is a collaboration of a number of different, and often competing, ideas and interests. It is a hybrid of some of the placemaking features and streetscape elements from the early design concepts but includes materials and items that are 1 - 6 more affordable and can be maintained. One of the more unfortunate situations that often happens with an enhanced place, is that in a relatively short period of time, either materials deteriorate, need to be repaired or replaced or utilities/infrastructure repairs and work alters the original design and appearance. The proposed approach and materials place a high reliance on the ability to maintain (and repair if needed) over a period of at least 30 years while still including some identifiable placemaking elements. Some of the highlights or key features of the plan (attached as Appendix B), include: Wider sidewalks with patterned saw cuts and sandblast finish to enable small sidewalk cafes and outdoor retailing More bike racks (downtown bike shape design) with the potential for a shelter at Queen/Charles space and Vogelsang Green Roadway with concrete roll curb and gutter, slightly narrower lane and sharrows Historic, globe LED street lights with string lights in between (parallel to street) Heritage Signage / Marker at Queen / King intersection (information about the history of the surrounding buildings and area) Encouragement of façade lighting of heritage and architecturally significant buildings using the Façade Improvement Loan Program Wayfinding signage, new planters, custom benches, murals by local artists Living / Green Wall at Charles/Queen Intersection treatment at Queen/King Street (decorative design of full intersection and recommendation for pedestrian scramble crossing) and striping designs on pavement near laneways/pedestrian areas reatment and decorative designs for Goudies Lane String Lights in all laneways and laneway programming Moveable, colourful tables and chairs and some potential space for bistro patios Refurbishment of surface material, planter beds, trees and seating in the parkette space in front of Parking Lot 25 at Goudies Lane Artistic refuse/recycling/compost facilities Vogelsang Green: natural amphitheatre design for seating, green lawn for greenery and programmable performance space, overhead string lights from decorative poles, colourful tables and seating for Duke Food Block and other patrons, walkway between Duke Street and existing parking lot, opening up of the Federal building façade, low-impact development stormwater management showcase, interpretive panels, open views and new landscaping with mature trees (note: the drawback is that any redevelopment of this space will necessitate the removal of existing trees and vegetation) Figures 10-12: Sample Design Images of Placemaking Features 1 - 7 Figure 13: Potential Standard Replacement of Vogelsang Green Figure 14: Potential Enhanced Replacement of Vogelsang Green 1 - 8 The Benefits An enhanced Queen Street with urban park space anchors at either end provides a way for people to connect beyond King Street. This is an important corridor in the City. There are and will be more people living, working and visiting Kitchener and this area. Changes in the streetscape can produce changes in neighbourhood desirability, travel patterns and spending. T ng other things, retail rents, office rents, and commercial property values. Over a 6 year period, the percentage increase in assessed value of properties adjacent to the King Street streetscaping was close to double the increase of those that were in other parts of downtown (and not near other EDIF related investments). Although there are many factors to consider, with enhanced streetscaping/placemaking there would be expected changes in rental and occupancy rates, residential population, pedestrian counts, duration of stay, business and employee counts and ultimately consumer spending. In a Brooklyn NYC study of Vanderbilt Avenue, retails sales after streetscape improvements far outpaced comparison sites and the rest of the Borough. Expectations are that additional re-urbanization and façade improvements could occur along the Queen Street corridor adding more construction values and potentially doubling the number of people living and working in the area. an enhanced streetscape for Queen Street can leverage: The heritage context to create a complementary setting to further draw visitors \[Regional\] cultural institutions and art communities to host events and festivals Proximity to transit infrastructure to support a culture of walking and to stimulate and orient foot traffic to destinations and shopping on Queen Street or near by Existing and potential eating and drinking establishment to create a vibrant patio and night life scene An enhanced streetscape for Queen Street can be catalytic for the \[City\] by: \[Creating a distinct identity for Queen Street to attract new shops and services\] Generating and stimulating foot traffic to support new retail and hospitality Attract and stimulate private investments in heritage structures and or complementary new developments Create a significant new profile-raising and image-defining attraction To harness its full potential given its distinct attributes and the opportunities to leverage, the enhanced streetscape must be designed to accommodate higher volumes of foot traffic, events and festivals, and spill out commercial and entertainment activity. Given the finite space within the narrow right-of-way, pedestrians must take priority with respect to allocation of space, traffic-calming for safety, convenience for access, comfort and amenity, etc. 1 - 9 An enhanced streetscape that is a pedestrian priority scheme and that utilizes high quality materials and fixtures can also generate the greatest economic benefits as well as returns on the investment in the streetscape literature review and case studies demonstrate that enhanced streetscapes in comparable dense mixed-use contexts result in significant economic benefits, and the magnitude of those benefits increase the higher the quality of enhancements. Pedestrian priority schemes generate the greatest economic impactsproperty valuescorresponding property taxes Vogelsang Green The Placemaking Plan provides the following benefits: 1.Health Benefits: provides our downtown residents and businesses with ready access to an attractive green space for their enjoyment. Multiple studies have proven the 2.Economic Benefits: redesign of perception of the aesthetics and safety in downtown and likely will attract more people to the park and nearby businesses. The plan would directly support the Duke Street Food Block. Improving the aesthetics of the park will also increase the property value of the nearby properties. Programming the space for performances, festivals, community events, etc. will further increase park users, tourism and benefit local businesses, i.e. increased retail activity. 3.Environmental Benefits: parks and green spaces aide to reduce heat island effect, facilitate storm water absorption, provides refuge and forage opportunities for 4.Inclusiveness/Equity: improved access and increase park users of all ages and abilities by incorporating accessible design principles. 5.Safety: opening up the views through the park and implementing Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design \[CPTED\] princ perception of the downtown in general and Vogelsang Green as a safe and inviting environment thereby increasing users. 6.Heritage: integrating heritage elements/references into the design and incorporating heritage interpretive signage respecting the past and appeals to local heritage groups plus tourism sector. The redesign also provides an opportunity to showcase the architecture and currently hidden façade of 15 Duke St. 7.Aesthetics:replacement of aging and deteriorating amenities and materials to help improve park aesthetics in a potentially visible area of the city 8.Accessibility replace materials to reduce potential of tripping on loose pavers. 9.Flexibility:a variety of uses over all 4 seasons; either programmed or spontaneous. 10. Activity:provides amenities that attract people to the park for social interaction, activities, and complements and supports the surrounding businesses. Overall, the benefits of an enhanced streetscape can be city-wide. Therecommended plan provides an improved public realm for the entire community to utilize and enjoy. 9) 1 - 10 The Possibilities We could do more. The public, stakeholders, our consultants and the project team ourselves are saying and acknowledge that we could (or should?) dream bigger and could create an even more memorable place for people. A place that could reflect and showcase the progression of our community and a place that could be the trending photo of Kitchener. In order to capture that possibility, in addition to the two design concepts that were created for the engagement process (see Appendix C), Stantec Consulting Ltd. prepared an additional vision of the area transformed into a flexible space with a prominent pedestrian realm Appendix E for information purposes. The Placemaking Plan that is put forward as a recommendation from the project team is one that we believe is practical, affordable and can still meet many of the objectives and principles from the stakeholders. The Next Steps The Urban Design Manual and provides the guidance for future municipal-led works in the area along with the basis for streetscape contributions of any adjacent (re)development. The placemaking improvements to Queen Street and associated City-owned spaces, Goudies Lane, and Vogelsang Green would be conducted as one project. Federal government representatives for Vogelsang Green are involved in the consultation on the placemaking design and require the old, outdated agreement and arrangements from the 1980s for this land in terms of its public use and maintenance to be updated. As such, a recommendation is included in this report to authorize signing a new agreement. This initiative includes an evolution of how we approach streetscape/placemaking plans and the financial implications of long-term asset management. There are a number of detailed considerations for the plan and the lifecycle cost estimate that will need to be further refined and defined in order to transition into the next phase of work in 2018 which would be the detailed design for construction tender process. It is expected that the current lifecycle costs are at a Class C+ estimate (a 30% contingency or degree of change is included) and through the next refinement process will get to a Class B estimate. It is recommended that the lifecycle costs be considered in the 2018 and subsequent budget processes. In concert with the above, and in collaboration with the Downtown BIA, look at opportunities to attract new retailers and encourage private sector enhancements of the buildings and spaces, through programs such as the Façade Improvement Grant Program, Patio Program and future business attraction strategy. ALIGNMENT WITH CITY OF KITCHENER STRATEGIC PLAN: Strategic Priority 1 Open Government: Strategy 1.3 Create more opportunities for citizen dialogue on community issues and introduce new ways for people to get involved in decisions that affect them. 1 - 11 Strategic Priority 2 Strong and Resilient Economy: Strategy 2.4 Develop and nurture a high quality of life and a powerful identity for the City of Kitchener to attract investment and a talented creative workforce. Strategy 2.5 Facilitate the ongoing development of Downtown Kitchener as the heart of the city. Strategic Priority 3 Safe and Thriving Neighbourhoods Strategy 3.6 Provide opportunities and support for citizens to lead the way in ealth, happiness and well- Strategic Priority 4 Sustainable Environment and Infrastructure Strategy 4.5 Strengthen the capability and capacity within the organization to so that they are affordable, dependable and sustainable in the long-term. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: Currently, there is approved capital funding for Queen Street resurfacing and Vogelsang Green redevelopment using standard base estimates of $850,000 and nothing in the budget for resurfacing Goudies Lane or improving the Queen/Charles St space. If Council chooses to proceed with the enhancements outlined in this report the additional capital costs for the various features are outlined in the chart below. Less: Standard Base Add: Cost of Available Capital Cost Placemaking Total Project Capital Unfunded DescriptionEstimateFeatures*CostFundingCapital Cost vǒĻĻƓ {ƷƩĻĻƷ tƌğĭĻƒğƉźƓŭ tƌğƓυ ЏЉЉͲЉЉЉυ ЊͲЉЉЉͲЉЉЉЍЉЉͲЉЉЉυ υ ΛВЍЉͲЉЉЉΜυ Џ ЉͲЉЉЉ ƚŭĻƌƭğƓŭ DƩĻĻƓ wĻķĻǝĻƌƚƦƒĻƓƷυ ЋЎЉͲЉЉЉυ ЋЉЎͲЉЉЉυ Ѝ ЎЎͲЉЉЉυ ΛЋЎЉͲЉЉЉΜυ ЋЉЎͲЉЉЉ \[ğƓĻǞğǤ tƌğĭĻƒğƉźƓŭυ БЎͲЉЉЉυ ЊЋЎͲЉЉЉυ Ћ ЊЉͲЉЉЉυ ΛВЉͲЉЉЉΜυ ЊЋЉͲЉЉЉ δtĻƚƦƌĻ CźƩƭƷδ tƌğǩğ vǒĻĻƓΉ/ŷğƩƌĻƭ {ƷЏЎͲЉЉЉυ υ ЊЊЎͲЉЉЉυ Њ БЉͲЉЉЉυ ΛЊЉЎͲЉЉЉΜυ А ЎͲЉЉЉ Total$ 1,000,000$ 1,845,000845,000$ $ (1,385,000)$ 460,000 ہŷĻƭĻ ğƩĻ /ƌğƭƭ /њ ĻƭƷźƒğƷĻƭ Ǟŷźĭŷ źƓĭƌǒķĻƭ ЌЉі ĭƚƓƷźŭĻƓĭǤ This is a joint initiative which, in addition to the typical Engineering responsibility for road work and Operations Design & Development responsibility for parks, would also have several asset owners for the placemaking features including: Transportation Services (bike racks/sharrows) Economic Development (planters, lighting, tables and chairs, programming) Planning (heritage markers, laneway string lights, intersection/crossing treatments, other urban design improvements) 1 - 12 As part of their approved capital budgets, these divisions have identified $535,000 of funding that could be applied to the implementation of this Placemaking Plan. This still leaves a total of about $460,000 unfunded (which includes all four aspects of the plan) and would rely upon either a financial partnership (Downtown BIA, adjacent land owners) or additional city funding approved as part of the 2018 budget process. The Lifecycle replacement costs (over 30 years) would also have to be factored into the budget process or financial partnerships for future years. If the enhanced design is chosen, an additional annual maintenance cost of $5,000 (which includes all four aspects of the plan) would also need to be added to the appropriate operating budgets as part of the 2018 budget process. A related Issue Paper is being prepared as part budget process whereby staff will have a more fully developed funding model. The first preference is for financial partners to step forward otherwise the funding options include reducing the scope of work, only doing one or two aspects of the project or phasing it over 10 or more years into the future. The Place approximately $2.8M Capital cost with about a $3.5M Lifecycle cost (over 30 years). COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: The engagement for this initiative , A specific Stakeholder Engagement Plan was also created for the initiative. INFORM advance of the Committee meeting. Notice of this meeting and the report was sent out to the project distribution email list. An article was in The Record in February to help inform people about the start of the initiative. Additional media is expected in August. A webpage with information about the initiative and draft placemaking strategy was available in support of the Engage Kitchener survey(s). CONSULT/COLLABORATE Throughout the initiative, various options were provided to consult and collaborate with the public and stakeholders, including but not limited to: Use of Shape DTK 2020 Forum input January Downtown BIA Meeting March 22 Engage Kitchener Survey #1 April 7 to 19 o Input as to how (i.e. what destinations) people currently use Queen Street, Goudies Lane, Vogelsang Green and what mode of travel o Provisions of ideas as to what would make Queen Street, Goudies Lane and Vogelsang Green more inviting, functional and comfortable o Responses to Survey #1 are attached as Appendix D. 1 - 13 Social media posts Downtown Action & Advisory Committee Meeting April 27 Individual communication with various landowners along Queen Street Engage Kitchener Survey #2 May 19 to June 4+ o Review of design concepts and placemaking features o Provision of comments on what l to help prioritize the most important placemaking features On site input o Queen Street (at King St intersection) May 19 o Vogelsang Green (at Duke St near the Food Block) May 26 o Goudies Lane (lane event as part of the Thursday Block Party) June 1 o Over 200 people talked to and engaged o Display boards showing design concepts, streetscape element pictures, cross-section drawings and other imagery. Significant amount of comments received alo input on the most important placemaking features Downtown Action and Advisory Committee Meeting June 22 Downtown BIA Meeting July 26 Conversations with various individuals March - July Figure 15 - Queen Street (at King St) Set-up Figure 16 - Goudies Lane Engagement Figure 17 - -Figure 18 - Vogelsang Green PIC 1 - 14 Downtown Action and Advisory Committee (DAAC) This initiative was discussed with DAAC on two occasions during key milestones. Committee members provided valuable input about their experience with the existing conditions within the study area, generated some placemaking ideas, and discussed placemaking elements from the concepts that should be in the preferred design. Overall, the amphitheatre design for Vogelsang Green was a major highlight and the ideas for use and programming are numerous. The group highlighted that there are many benefits to public investment in placemaking and streetscapes. Generating foot traffic in these areas would have spin-off benefits to downtown businesses and may provide greater value to residents, employees, and properties in the area. In our continual battle for talent attraction and retention, placemaking initiatives such as these could make a big difference. Top priorities from DAAC members included focusing on Vogelsang Green and laneway (Goudies/Halls) improvements while also enhancing the historic character and heritage elements of Queen Street as the most important aspects of the initiative. If there is any ability to squeeze in patio seating and establish some nightlife programming this would be added enhancements. Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA) Members of the Downtown BIA were engaged on several occurrences about this initiative. Information and knowledge exchange between the BIA and project team members was important and valuable. The potential benefits of enhancing Queen Street, redesigning and programming Vogelsang Green, and turning underutilized spaces into places for people could be quite impactful to the businesses downtown. The Downtown BIA is considering the potential of partnering with the City on this Placemaking Plan. Summary and Use of Public/Stakeholder Comments People are interested in the future of their community and are engaged. A significant amount of ideas and input were received within a relatively short period of time for this initiative. The results from Engage Kitchener survey #1 were quite informative, forward- thinking and influenced the design options that were created for the formal public engagement (see Appendix D). A number of people pass through the area using different modes of travel with somewhat limited reasons to linger and use the space, while there were some whose destination was along Queen Street (i.e. to work or to have lunch in Vogelsang Green). Prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists, more lighting at night, better sidewalks and seating areas were all cited as things that would make the area more inviting, functional and comfortable and are all items that were included in each design concept (and in the final plan as well). Based on all of the conversations, the on-line survey, and the on-street input the natural amphitheatre with green lawn performance space for Vogelsang Green was very popular. This was also true from the project team and DAACs perspective (and therefore was going to be recommended in the preferred design so it was not even included in some of the surveys but over 100 people wrote / dotted it in any way!). 1 - 15 e all placemaking elements that received positive commentary and are all features that are in the preferred design (with the exception of features/lighting over and across Queen Street as there are several issues with this). Bike shelters (which could have a green roof) were identified as a fairly important feature. Upon further consideration, there are some practical issues with installing these up front so the preferred design includes grouped bike-style racks with the ability to install a shelter at a later date. Additional features such as intersection or crosswalk tactile treatments, murals, planters, LED lighting, site furniture and stormwater LID received some notation and interest. These items are good features to include, can be maintained and for the most part are possible to be accounted for in future budgets so they are included in the preferred design. While it is understandable that the majority of participants are from the central area, there were a number of individuals from other locations. For the most part, those that are interested in using the space and providing input to urban issues were excited to participate. There were some amazing conversations about the past, present and future of Kitchener. Overall, we were encouraged that the City is doing the right thing to make better public places and many wanted us to dream big. CONCLUSION: What sets one city apart from another is the character of its streets. We have an opportunity to undertake a more progressive transformation of Queen Street, its lanes and Vogelsang Green - one that ful If we are serious about city-building, enhancing and making our community attractive and creating places for people, at minimum, we should move forward with the recommended Queen Street Placemaking Plan. A collaboration of staff, consultant and stakeholders have helped prepare a plan for streetscape and park enhancements that is based on lifecycle cost considerations and plots a new course for this type of asset management. While the recommended plan is considered practical and reasonably achievable, it does include some exciting possibilities that, combined with other adjacent private investments, could deliver some valuable public space for our community. REVIEWED BY: The Queen Street Placemaking Plan Project Team ACKNOWLEDGED BY: Michael May, Deputy CAO (Community Services) Appendix A The Project Team Appendix B The Placemaking Master Plan Appendix C The Preliminary Strategy and Design Concepts for Engagement Appendix D Community Engagement Results Appendix E 1 - 16 APPENDIX A Queen Street Placemaking Plan Internal Project Team Steve Allen Engineering - Manager, Engineering Design & Approvals Carol Bacon - Operations Design & Development Landscape Architect Sandro Bassanese Planning - Urban Designer Leon Bensason Planning Coordinator, Cultural Heritage Planning Scott Berry - Operations Manager, Maintenance Operations Cory Bluhm Economic Development Executive Director Dayna Edwards Planning Senior Planner (Urban Design) Nick Gollan Engineering Manager, Stormwater Utility Monika Grau Economic Development Business Development Officer Greg McTaggart Asset Management Manager, Infrastructure Asset Planning Janine Oosterveld Planning Manager, Site Development & Customer Service Eckhard Pastrik Operations Manager, Park Operations Danny Pimentel Transportation Services Active Transportation Planning Project Manager Brandon Sloan (Project Manager) Planning Manager, Long Range & Policy Planning Project Sponsorship Planning Division, Economic Development, Operations Design & Development 1 - 17 1 - 18 APPENDIX B The Placemaking Master Plan 1 - 19 1 - 20 21 - 1 THE WALPER (HERITAGE BUILDING) BIKE SHARROWCONCRETE MOUNTABLE CURB WITH WIDE GUTTER (OPSD 600.030) +/- 3.0 SIDEWALK CONCRETE 0.8 L.I.D. OPPORTUNITY(BIO SWALES, ENHANCED SOD AREAS)FUTURE BIKE SHARE / BIKE SHELTER LOCATIONPORTABLE CHAIRS OPPORTUNITY FOR ELECTRICAL OUTLETS / SOLAR RECHARGE STATIONS IN PARKLOW CURB WALL150 mm HT. 3.1 DUKE ST. 3.1 ASPHALT ROAD 0.8 +/- 3.0 SIDEWALK CONCRETE FEDERAL BUILDING BROKERS INSURANCE ERB AND ERB MURAL OPPORTUNITY DECORATIVE OVERHEAD LANEWAY ENTRY SIGNS GREEN CIBC BRANCH VOGELSANG POTENTIAL PLANTER PROPOSED LIGHT STANDARDS (15.0 m ON CENTRE) OPEN LAWN RAISED PLANTERS WITH SMALL STATURE TREES AND SEATING (TO BE INTEGRATED WITH EXISTING UTILITIES) GOUDIES LANE AMPITHEATRE SEATING GOUDIES LANE DUKE STREET TO PARKING LOT LOW GROW GROUND COVER PROPOSED UNIT PAVINGLIGHT STANDARD 1.5 m WIDE PATHWAY CONNECTING MURAL OPPORTUNITY QUEEN ST. WOONERF OPPORTUNITY STAMPED PATTERNED ASPHALT OVERHEAD WIRE LIGHTING FIXED BETWEEN LIGHT POLES POTENTIAL SITE FOR MAIN HERITAGE MARKERREMOVABLE MURAL PATIO & WOONERF OPPORTUNITY FACADE IMPROVEMENT OPPORTUNITY BIKE SHARROWS TO INDICATE SHARED LANEOPPORTUNITY FOR FACADE IMPROVEMENT OPPORTUNITY / AUGMENTED REALITYFOUR CORNER ENGAGEMENT. SUBJECT TO REGIONAL APPROVAL.POTENTIAL FOR SCRAMBLE INTERSECTION POTENTIAL PLANTER LOCATION BMO KING ST. BUILDING ENTRANCEBIKE SHARROW CIBC THE WALPER DURATHERM STRIPING OVERHEAD WIRE LIGHTING FIXED TO BUILD IN LANE WAYSEXISTING GREEN WALL OVERHEAD WIRE LIGHTING FIXED TO BUILD IN LANE WAYSGREEN WALL OPPORTUNITYEXISTING MURAL T S A E E N A L MURAL OPPORTUNITY S L L A H BIKE RACKDECIDUOUS TREE . T S TS EW E NA L S LL AH N E E U Q (STYLE: BIKE SHAPE) L.I.D. OPPORTUNITYCOLOURED BIKERACK (STYLE: BIKE SHAPE)FUTURE BIKE SHARE / BIKE SHELTER LOCATIONGREEN WALL OPPORTUNITY OVERHEAD LIGHTING AUGMENTED REALITY COLOURED BIKE RACK DECORATIVE SIDEWALK C RAH SEL .TS GREEN WALLMURAL LRT STATION 22 - 1 APPENDIX C The Preliminary Strategy and Design Concepts for Engagement 1 - 23 1 - 24 25 - 1 QUEEN STREET PLACEMAKING STRATEGY 26 - 1 456 N.T.S. . T S . E T . K S T U S G D S N E I CIVIC CENTRE L K R 3 A H C . T S N E E U Q 2 1 2 4 5 3 6 1 EXISTING CONDITIONS KEY MAP 27 - 1 the a large distributor of Economical Mutual Fire from 1916 to 1954 Randall & Roos The Walper Hotel(Since 1820 the site has been used as an inn or hotel)The “Royal Crossroads”The Germania Block Constructed by Jakob Fellman in 1885Built in 1898 for wholesale goods, cigars, and tobaccos Insurance Company American Block Oldest building in downtown ca. 1860 built by the Breithaupt family 24 1356 N.T.S. 6 5 3 2 1 4 QUEEN STREET HERITAGE CONTEXT HISTORY VICTORIA PARK AREA HERITAGE CONSERVATION DISTRICTCIVIC CENTRE HERITAGE CONSERVATION DISTRICT 28 - 1 Dominion Tire Plant Hartman Krug’s Furniture Factory Lang’s Shirt Factory 122 Victoria Street South Industrial DevelopmentIndustrial DevelopmentIndustrial DevelopmentIndustrial Development McBrine Luggage Water Street South and Charles Street such as furniture, clothing, footwear, leather baggage, rubber tires, beverages, and felt. Hartman Krug’s Furniture FactoryHartman Krug’s Furniture Factory Manufacturing became the main base of the economy, with industries producing diverse items Emile Vogelsang’s Factory Queen Street South at Cortland Avenue HERITAGE CONTEXT - - 29 - 1 PLACEMAKING STRATEGY Not to detract from heritage features and should be coordinated with building owners green walls to strengthen continuity and less the sense of visual clutter Applied to all facades along the corridor to strengthen the continuity of the area while creating a distinct and memorable impact Programmable to enable visual artists to contribute, to ally evolve the experience Design Objectives•• Design Objectives•• It Takes a Village to Make a Street Great To bring to fruition a shared vision that reaches its full potential, Queen Street will require the City, landowners, tenants, the public and other stakeholders working collaboratively and in partnership on an ongoing basis. A Nightlife Art Experience features, the use of programmable LED lighting of building facades along the entire corridor may be far more impactful as an experience over conventional static art. This approach would also complement the vibrant cultural function of the corridor and serve to nurture a night life in the downtown. Living & Breathing Street Walls The limitations on space in the right-of-way warrant creative approaches to pedestrian lighting. Visible blank walls can turn into green walls otherwise murals that can indicate one’s arrival to Queen Street, announce upcoming events or tell the rich story of this place. -- - - Modest interventions to visually link to the design treatment of Queen Street Consistent treatment to the building walls that frame the spaces so as to reinforce the sense of an outdoor urban room Temporary structures can be tailored to the space and stored away when not in use or in off seasons Heavily landscaped and splendidly designs to offset the lack of landscaping elsewhere on Queen Street Ensure seating and other opportunities for passive useIntroduce features to strengthen the gateway functions Expand where possible and animate with complemenwalls Design streetscape at ‘stage’ areas to easily transition into pedestrian only areas and that can accommodate Provide infrastructure such as multi-media and lighting to support events and performances Amphitheatre as an informal landscaped area that is inviting for visitors to eat lunch or simply people watch on the steps Design Objectives••• Design Objectives•••• Design Objectives••• The Queen Street Sleeves The rear lanes and alleys that run perpendicular to Queen Street present opportunity for another layer and scale of occasional/seasonal event or gathering spaces either in addition to the street when great space is needed or on their own for small scale purposes that may not warrant disrupting movement along the street. These more intimately scaled spaces are ideally suited to set up an out door gallery or food stand. Green Anchors & Gateways Given constraints to introducing street trees and landscaping, Vogelsang Green at Duke Street and the broad setbacks along Charles St present an opportunity to further strengthen and enhance the passive landscaped qualities of these spaces. They are also strategic sites forgateway treatments to mark entry the north and south entry points for this segment of Queen Street. Centre Stages & Theatre in the Green The segments of Queen Street on either side of King Street and to a modest depth of no greater than the rear lanes could be designated ‘stage’ areas to host events and festivals. Occasional or season closure of these modest segments can occur while still enabling vehicular access necessary to service impacted properties. The grade shifts at Vogelsang Green can be harnessed to create an outdoor ‘green’ amphitheater complementary to the cultural functions of the corridor. - - -- and that is inviting to pedestrians and gives them priority Design integrated elements to easily and seamlessly or along the entire streetLighting, furnishing and other amenities oriented to the needs and comfort of pedestrians Protect, conserve, reinforce, complement and celebrate the existing heritage buildings as well as the charStrengthen the visual and physical links the adjacent HCDsConvey the rich history of the street and its patrons visually unify the corridor functions Strengthen and reinforce the cultural aspects of corridor by directing additional functions Design Objectives••• Design Objectives•••Design Objectives••• Pedestrian-Multi-Flex-Place-Link The narrowness of the street, it historic importance, the current and potential spill-out activities associated with the grade uses, the direct links to the new LRT stations, and potential for frequent street closures to accommodate cultural events and festivals, warrant a street that accommodates the pedestrian as its top priority. functions and demands that may differ season to season, Historic Core Revival & the Missing Link Queen Street at King Street is at the heart of the historic downtown. Prominent landmarks heritage buildings remain intact and Queen Street is anchored to the north and south by Heritage Conservation Districts, potentially establishing the missing link between them and to the downtown.At the Heart of a Cultural Corridor When considered to its full extent through the downtown, an additional block to the north and south could create a cultural corridor linking existing and future cultural and institutional functions along a path from Civic District to the north to Victoria Park at south. 30 - N.T.S. Duke Food Block 1 QUEEN STREET D EKU ERTS W TE TSE Erb & Erb Gateway Plaza Living green walls will provide greenery where space is limitedLighting features and steel accents will provide seasonal interest to walls Coordinated LED lighting of building facades along the corridor to highlight the architectural landmarks while strengthening continuity of the areaHistoric facades are shown off to their best at night as well as during the dayQueen Street will require the City, landowners, tenants, the public and other stakeholders to work together to bring this vision to fruition and to watch and care over it Insurance Brokers Living & Breathing Street Walls•• A Nightlife Art Experience••It Takes a Village to Make a Street Great• E NA L SEI D UO G E N AL SE ID U O G - - BMO Grass amphitheater in Vogelsang park to provide green space, additional seating and informal space to eatPassive green space at Charles Street can feature living walls and gardensBookend parks are designated pedestrian only areas to accommodate events and festivals Natural Amphitheatre could be designated seating area around ‘stage’Goudies Lane & Halls Lane West present opportunity for additional gathering spacesDesigned as ‘shared spaces’ that are inviting to pedestrians while continuing to provide vehicular access for businesses K GNI ERTS AE TE TS Green Anchors & Gateways••Centre Stages & Theatre in the Green••The Queen Street Sleeves•• CIBC - The Walper Hotel T EW TS E E LLAH AL S EN R T S N E E U Q K-W Used New & Protect and celebrate the existing heritage buildings rich story of Queen Street and Kitchener through Interpretive FeatureAcknowledge our industrious past, present and future – from innovations in the garment to high tech industries Kitchener supported a thriving button industry, and was known as the “buttonville”and beyond Potential future sites for cultural related attractions and industries Permeable Paver sidewalks invite pedestrians and signal to drivers and cyclists to slow down speedsFlush or rolling curb combined with moveable bollards and/or planters to seamlessly transform the roadway into a event space, market or patio expansion on special occasions, weekends or seasonally as opportunities arise Plant beds, living green walls and street trees add beauty and appeal to the pedestrian experience C H A R L E S S T R E E T Historic Core Revival & the Missing Link••At the Heart of a Cultural Corridor••••Pedestrian-Multi-Flex-Place-Link•••W E S T CONCEPT 1 PLAN VIEW 31 - N.T.S. QUEEN STREET 1 D EKU ERTS W TE TSE Natural Ampitheatre Overhead Feature Seating Area with Shade Structure E NA L SEI D UO G EN AL S EI DU O G Mural Opportunity Imprinted Buttons on AsphaltPotential Site for HeritageInterpretive Feature GNIK RTS E TEE TSA LRT Tracks 4 Corner Engagement T S A E T S E W E N A L S L L A H E N A L S L L A H Living Wall T E E Opportunity for Historical Mural R T S N E E U Q Overhead Feature LRT Station C H A R LID Opportunity L E S S RT E E T W E S T Art Installation Opportunity CONCEPT 1 PLAN VIEW 32 - 1 Bicycle Shelter DESIGN ELEMENTS Design to hold 10 Bikes University of Guelph Bicycle Shelter• CONCEPT 1 Living wall incorporates decorative perforated aluminum panelsProgrammable uplighters bring the wall to life at night Birmingham ‘Living’ Wall at Two Stonehill (7.0 m High)••• . T S S E L R A H C Shelter Bicycle LIVING & BREATHING STREET WALLSBIKE SHELTERS 33 - 1 DESIGN ELEMENTS CONCEPT 1 MMCite Bistrot Outdoor Table and Stools crosswalks added to the Spirit Trail waterfront pathways DuraTherm The Spirit Trail, North Vancouver, Canada• Shade Structure . QUEEN STREET T S Food Duke Street Block G N I D EKU ERTS W TE TSE K . T S N E E U Q 4 CORNER ENGAGEMENTSITE FURNITURE 34 - 1 DESIGN ELEMENTS CONCEPT 2 -- - Flood lights project a high level of light to an outdoor area for safety, or simply to highlight architecture elementsVarious precision optical systems are available, delivering a suitable pattern for any application Example:Philips LED Flood Light•• QUEEN STREET Duke Food Street Block D EKU ERTS W TE TSE LIGHTING OPTIONSWATER FEATURE 35 - 1 SECTION A - A’ Ampitheatre Seating Area CONCEPT 1 Vogelsang Green QUEEN STREET EKUD EERTS W T Plaza A A’ Water Feature EN AL SE ID UO G K S GNI TEERT E 2.65 Sidewalk Concrete 3.1 Approved by Asphalt Road 3.1 with Barrier Curb City of Kitchener Street Lights to be C H A R L E S S T R E E T W T E E R T S 4.65 N E Sidewalk E Concrete U Q Note: All Dimensions in Meters Key Map N.T.S. 36 - 1 SECTION B - B’ Parking Lot CONCEPT 1 Soil Cell L.I.D. Opportunity QUEEN STREET EKUD EERTS W T Permeable Paver Plaza Connecting to Vogelsang Green 2.65 B B’ Sidewalk Concrete EN AL SE ID UO G 3.1 Approved by Asphalt Road City of Kitchenerwith Barrier Curb 3.1 K Street Lights to be S GNI TEERT E 4.65 Sidewalk Concrete C H A R L E S S T R E E T W Erb and Erb T E E R Insurance Brokers T S N E E U Q Note: All Dimensions in Meters Key Map N.T.S. 37 - 1 SECTION C - C’ CONCEPT 1 CIBC Branch 2.55 Sidewalk Concrete Proposed Sharrows to Indicate Lanes are Shared by Motorists and Cyclists QUEEN STREET EKUD EERTS W T 3.1 Barrier Curb Approved by 3.1 City of Kitchener Street Lights to be Asphalt Road with EN AL S EID UO G 4.15 Sidewalk Concrete s d e K B S GNI TEERT E r e t n a Street Lightl C P C’ The Walper (L.I.D. Opportunity) (Heritage Building) C H A R L E S S T R E E T W T E E R T S N E E U Q Note: All Dimensions in Meters Key Map N.T.S. - 38 - N.T.S. Food Duke Block 1 UD S EK ERT W TE TSE QUEEN STREET Erb & Erb Insurance Brokers Gateway Plaza Living green walls will provide greenery where space is limitedLighting features and steel accents will provide seasonal interest to walls Cantenary lighting increases visual comfort and makes the space feel safer and inviting Decorative projections will case elegant shadows into the shared spacesQueen Street will require the City, landowners, tenants, the public and other stakeholders to work together to bring this vision to fruition and to watch and care over it Living & Breathing Street Walls•• A Nightlife Art Experience••It Takes a Village to Make a Street Great• E N AL S EI DU O G - - - - BMO NIK Tree bosque in Vogelsang Green provides canopy cover and additional seatingPassive green space at Charles Street can feature living walls and gardensBookend parks are designated pedestrian only areas to accommodate events and festivals Rear lanes can be designated ‘stages’Occasional road closure Goudies Lane & Halls Lane West present opportunity for additional gathering spacesDesigned as ‘shared spaces’ that are inviting to pedestrians while continuing to provide vehicular access for businesses G ERTS E TE TSA Green Anchors & Gateways••Centre Stages & Theatre in the Green•••The Queen Street Sleeves•• CIBC - - The Walper Hotel W TSE AH SLL NAL E K-W Used New & C H A Protect and celebrate the existing heritage buildings Tell the rich story of Queen Street and Kitchener through Interpretive Feature Acknowledge our industrious past, present and future – from innovations in the garment to high tech industries Truss pattern, steel materials and mist water feature are a nod to Kitchener’s industrial pastand beyond Potential future sites for cultural related attractions and industries Permeable Paver sidewalks invite pedestrians and signal to drivers and cyclists to slow down speedsRaised planters, living green walls and street trees add beauty and appeal to the pedestrian experience R L E S S T R E E T W T E S T E Historic Core Revival & the Missing Link••At the Heart of a Cultural Corridor••••Pedestrian-Multi-Flex-Place-Link•• E R T S N E E U Q PLAN VIEW CONCEPT 2 39 - N.T.S. 1 QUEEN STREET D S EKU EERT EW T TS 4 Corner Engagement EN A L S EI DU O G E N AL SEI D U OG Laneway Programming Opportunity Potential Site for HeritageInterpretive Feature K GNI ERTS AE TE TS LRT Tracks Art Installation Opportunity T S A E E N A L S L L A H Living Wall T SE W Living Wall E N AL SL L AH T E C H EA R L E S S T R E E T W R E S T T Catenary Lighting Idea S Art Installation Opportunity N E E U Q CONCEPT 2 PLAN VIEW - DAYTIME 40 - N.T.S. 1 QUEEN STREET EKUD RTS W TEE TSE Raised Planters E N AL SEI D U OG EENN AA LL SS EEII DDUU OO GG Laneway Nightlife GNIK RTS TEE TSAE Catenary Street Lighting SEW T H SLLA NAL E T S A E E N A L S L L A H Programmable LED Lighting T E C H A E R L E S S T R E E T W R E S T T S N E E U Q CONCEPT 2 PLAN VIEW - NIGHT-TIME - 41 - 1 DESIGN ELEMENTS CONCEPT 2 Steel structure, roof and side walls made with tempered glass, rear walls made of acrylateDesign to hold 10 bikes MMCite Edge Bicycle Shelter•• Lighting source available on one or both sides Example: LED Bollard•• Two-sided Bicycle Shelter LIGHTING OPTIONSBIKE SHELTERS 42 - 1 SECTION A - A’ Goudies Lane CONCEPT 2 Art Installation Opportunity Tree Bosque & Seating Area QUEEN STREET A’ DUKE ST W Road GOUDIES LANE A Open Lawn and Tree Bosque (Soil Cell L.I.D. Opportunity) NIK TS G E TEER Vogelsang Green Park Signage Dining Area Plaza Seating / - - 3.1 able walk Side Paver C H A R L E Perme S S T R E E T W T E 3.1 E Road R Paver T S N Permeable E E U Q Note: All Dimensions in Meters Key Map N.T.S. 43 - 1 Open Lawn Tree Bosque New York, USA Urban Harvest Tables Bryant Park, New York, USA Lincoln Centre Barclay Capital Grove, VOGELSANG GREEN \[1\] N.T.S. CONCEPT 2 Planter BedsTree Bosque QUEEN STREET DUKE ST W Laneway GOUDIES LANE Open Lawn QUEEN STREET NIK TS G E TEER GATEWAY PLAZA TREET DUKE S C H A R L E S S T R E E T W T E E R T S N E E and Chairs U Patio Tables Q Ampitheatre Park Signage Harvest Tables Key Map N.T.S. 44 - 1 VOGELSANG GREEN \[2\] CONCEPT 2 45 - 1 SECTION B - B’ CONCEPT 2 CIBC Branch Bollards - 2.8 able Paver Perme Sidewalk Proposed Sharrows to Indicate Lanes are Shared by Motorists and Cyclists QUEEN STREET 3.1 EKUD EERTS W T Bollards 3.1 and Wide Gutter Catenary Lighting Idea(Truss Pattern) with Mountable Curb Permeable Paver Road E NA L SEI DU OG 4.3 Sidewalk Permeable Paver NIK RTS G E TEE B B’ Raised Planters The Walper (Heritage Building) Catenary Lighting Idea C H A R L E S S T R E E T W T E E R T S N E E U Q Note: All Dimensions in Meters Key Map N.T.S. 46 - 1 APPENDIX D Community Engagement Results 1 - 47 1 - 48 Queen Street Placemaking Plan - Survey #1 Response Engage Kitchener + Downtown Action & Advisory Committee How do you currently use Queen Street in Downtown Kitchener? Survey Count DAAC Count To work 5 3 To shop 8 1 To visit 8 1 To live 3 0 To cross 7 2 To pass through 13 3 (+1 To park) I don't use Queen Street 2 1 When traveling on Queen Street, what is your mode of transportation? Please select all that apply. Survey Count DAAC Count Walk 13 6 Cycle 11 2 Drive 8 1 Other 1 What would make Queen Street more inviting, functional and comfortable? Think about seating areas, activities and/or events that could take place here. Engage Kitchener Responses: Removing motor-vehicle traffic entirely or low-traffic pedestrian-priority area. The space between buildings is very narrow to comfortably share with thru-fare cars. More lighting at night. It's dimly lit and no one wants to walk by the crazy drunks sitting out front of capers. The print shop and Capers are not businesses that attract high traffic. The opposing side is a bank with unwelcoming brick walls. Adding seating areas or hosting activities/events here would be meaningless because of this. 1 - 49 Seating, better sidewalks. Consistent lighting with the rest of queen, more art, more progressive design for the road. Wider sidewalks! But if we're honest, this is already a pretty slow and poor corridor for driving through the core. It would be better if the design encouraged cars to go slow through the entire stretch. Right now cars can go quite fast coming up to King, and that can be deadly - and it's also useless given that one is likely to hit a red light a short block away anyway. I would like to see a woonerf (shared-space) design between Charles and Duke - it would make it easier for cars, bikes, and pedestrians to share the space, and discourage through traffic. Picnic tables to eat at on Vogelsang, more benches all along, sidewalk space for cafés, urban birdhouses, sidewalk chalk art days, Duke food block weekends, buskers, food truck days Wider, smoother and unobstructed sidewalks, narrower and slower traffic lanes. A feeling that this is a place for pedestrians, with cars being allowed to pass through. Queen between Charles and King has a very high proportion of mid-block pedestrian and cyclist crossings. Narrower lanes, lower speed limits and no on street stopping would make this a safer and more comfortable space. Parking. Without good parking, you will never see me downtown. Do not do anything until you clean out the street people. No one wants to see homeless sitting on benches A less seedy establishment in the American Hotel. The Civilian looks like a scary place. Bike lanes would be nice or sharrows The side walk and street is very narrow. Restricting vehicle stopping. Wider sidewalks with benches and bike racks. The section between Charles and King has more character than the section between King and Duke Street. The type of businesses on the Duke to King section don't attract much foot traffic with a bank on one corner and Capers on the other. Designated bike lanes, general clean-up and colour needed for the streets to help compensate for some buildings that aren't in the best shape. It should feel happier, friendlier, livelier. Smooth and wide sidewalks, current sidewalks are narrow and rough. The narrowest roadway you can get away with, bollards between pedestrians and the roadway, even, broad surface on the sidewalk Downtown Action & Advisory Committee Responses: Recognize the historic nature of the area Clean up the old buildings Make attractive for businesses The sidewalk needs attention needs to be uniform and not piece-meal, should be consistent material/colour, it is too narrow from King-Charles Lighting consider decorative, historic look - 1 - 50 How do you currently use Vogelsang Green? Please select all that apply. Survey Count DAAC Count To visit the park and enjoy the greenspace 4 2 To pass through the park to get to somewhere else 7 1 To eat lunch 7 2 I don't use Vogelsang Green 5 2 What would make Vogelsang Green more inviting, functional and comfortable? Think about seating areas, activities and/or events that could take place here Engage Kitchener Responses: Seamless walking space with the surrounding grass instead of the 4x4's (or 6x6's) that make up the path border. It's nice to have some green space between the buildings, but it doesn't feel welcoming. A few tables to eat at would be nice Better sight lines, better seating use grade design to allow for informal seat (i.e. armour stone) More usable space - shaded seating areas, some open spaces perhaps. Right now it's taken up by landscaping that there's little opportunity to appreciate, and it's often too dark. Perhaps the space should be more open to the adjacent streets, and particularly to the intersection. It's easy to just not know the park is there. Benches, picnic tables, buskers, duke food block food fairs DON'T remove the trees!! They are critical to making this a comfortable space to sit and enjoy. Making this space more accessible for people to stop and enjoy lunch or a snack. Chairs/tables that dry quickly after a rain would be great. A sense of separation from the traffic is important without making it a hidden space. Currently large areas are filled with bushes which seem mostly to be taking up space. Opening up the area a bit more in the inner area while protecting it from the street with denser plants would be nice. I don't go downtown. It looks ok as is keep the trees for the shade. * lower the bushes, so you can open up the area and see through. * add more benches for seating. Easier access from both Queen and Duke Street. Remove the stairs. Open up remove or reduce dense scrubs, but save the trees. More tables and seating for those buying food at Duke Street restaurants or want to eat lunch. Seating that doesn't collect water (mesh chairs?). More foliage that kills the noise from the street. Ever been to Japan? Shrines in the middle of cities that are stone silent like that Downtown Action & Advisory Committee Responses: Open it up too bushy and not well taken care of Love the amphitheatre idea provides an instant stage, allows for use for art events, bluesfest 1 - 51 How do you currently use Goudie's Lane? Please select all that apply. Survey Count DAAC Count To pass through between Queen and Frederick 5 1 To pass through between Queen and Ontario 5 1 To access destinations off the lane 7 1 Not at all 6 2 Other - for the pop up event, to get off of King St What would make Goudie's Lane more inviting, functional and comfortable? Think about seating areas, activities and/or events that could take place here Engage Kitchener Responses: It feels very walled in. Don't know if there's a way to open it up. It is not pedestrian friendly obviously. Lighting, art, some seating, more business opening up onto the lane way I like gritty laneways as they are. Maybe replace the parking with more laneway-facing retail.... Lighting at night, murals, signage for what's back there Clearly marked pedestrian spaces similar to Market Lane would make both parts feel more friendly and welcoming. Currently both parts seem "car only" and don't welcome other users. Lighting on both sides after dark as well as during the day under the parking garage would help to make this space feel safer. Also, finding a way to make the part between Queen and Ontario more inviting, perhaps with mirrors showing there is something more beyond the corner. Currently it is hard to tell that there is a connection, it appears to just end under the garage. Make it a parking lot. A mural on the white wall which I think is the American hotel more lighting. * clean up the building walls, make it more inviting. * add color. * add signs to show what is there to see. Perhaps better lighting. More attractive pavement that makes it seem more of a what way and a back alley. It is possible to restrict cars on the side looking towards Duke/Ontario Parking and to Queen Street sides. Perhaps paint a colourful mural on the walls. As for the Lane looking toward Frederick Street. If it is to stay a parking lot, as some green space or planters. I don't naturally think of Goudie's lane between Queen and Frederick as a public space, it seems like part of the parking areas. The section towards Ontario St could use some bright colours and would be an excellent spot for seating and possibly recreation facilities (maybe a bball hoop?). Lighted sculpture installation in many colours. You need something fun and inviting rather than monotone and corporate. Goudies between Queen and Ontario feels like "the stabbing laneway" because of the blind corners and giant garage. Goudies between queen and Frederick just feels like an extension of the parking lots. Downtown Action & Advisory Committee Responses: Make it pedestrian friendly no longer a car space or lane way but for people 1 - 52 53 - 1 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT and SURVEY #2 SUMMARY PLACEMAKING PLAN QUEEN STREET 54 - 1 2017 May 19 to June 4, King/Queen Intersection Vogelsang Green #2 Goudies Lane PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT DATES STREET PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT May 19, 2017 May 26, 2017 June 1, 2017 Online Survey - 1.2.3.4. ON 55 - 1 Overhead feature for aesthetics and shade Decorative lighting over street LED programmable lighting LID drainage/stormwater collection Murals QUESTIONS ASKED 355 visits ENGAGE KITCHENER RESPONSE 99 responses ONLINE SURVEY ONLINE SURVEY #2 ONLINE SURVEY PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT - QUESTIONS In the comment section below, please let us know what you like and dislike about the listed features found in this concept. In the comment section below, please let us know what you like and dislike about the listed features found in this concept. You've got 3 dots to 'spend' - how would you spend them on the potential improvements below? (note: up to 10 dots at on-site survey) Do you have any general questions, comments or suggestions to share about the Queen Street Placemaking Plan? Bike Shelters Living and Breathing Street Walls Raised planters, greenery, trees Corner/intersection tactile treatments Site furniture 1.2.3.4. 161 56 117 - 148 1 Laneway Nightlife 106 92 107 85 DOTMOCRACY RESULTS (#) - Natural Amphitheatre 84 60 DOTMOCRACY RESULTS (#) - 42 DESIGN ELEMENTS Water Feature 52 55 DESIGN ELEMENTS 48 After speaking with the public during on-street engagement, some additional design elements were added to subsequent engagement sessions (not included in online survey results) 5% 5% 57 Collection 5% - and shade LED Programmable Lighting LID Drainage/Stormwater 1 Overhead features for aesthetics 7% 4% 7% Murals Site Furniture Tactile Treatments Corner/Intersection Decorative 8% Bike Shelters/NO CARS 4% 9% Water Feature Raised Planters, Greenery, Trees 14% 9% 13% Natural Amphitheatre Living and Breathing Street Walls 10% street/lane Decorative lighting over Laneway Nightlife/Programming RESULTS (%) DESIGN ELEMENTS DOTMOCRACY 148 44 117 58 - 1 107 42 75 18 67 30 FOR REFERENCE 62 46 60 33 51 42 Online survey results 13 42 19 41 18 34 street vs. Online Survey 'Dotmocracy' Results -14 34 On-street results On 59 - 1 (*very popular) (*popular) bollards , pedestrian only large trees /improvements performance space and retaining rolling curbs areas combined with trees and (*very popular) for safety/intersection designs wide sidewalks and narrow traffic lanes particularly green roof on shelters increasing activity on streets and using as for bicycles, SUMMARY OF WHAT PEOPLE LIKED amphitheatre Drainage/Stormwater Collection Natural walls used as seats Overhead features and lighting (*combined Natural tree canopy combined with lights Laneway nightlife/programmingpopular) community spaces Bike shelters (preferred design) Greenery/Living Walls/Planters Benches and seating shading features Permeable pavers LED programmable lighting Tactile treatments Historical/Artistic Murals elements/heritage features (connection to old industry) SharrowsLIDPedestrian space Opportunities for event space and too 60 - 1 (*many concerns) (*common concern) preference for tree canopy rather than overhead features, if not made of solid can be problematic for those with mobility or vision impairments design addresses pedestrian experience not cyclists, need to improve safety for too many may restrict sunlight and interfere with trees SUMMARY OF PUBLIC CONCERNS limited space for cars, pedestrians, and cyclists creating safety issues concerned about modern nature of streetlights; LED lighting may be concern for concern that bike shelters/seating areas/park will be subject to vandalism, graffiti, some preference towards smaller private tables concerned about small size (unable to accommodate many people), loss of grass concerned about bland appearance when not in use, not in a good location concern with addressing periodic flooding/snow removal of Queen Street should consult with businesses along Queen Street, many concerns surrounding (*many concerns) perhaps implement loitering rules or patrolling and address negative factors Amphitheatre and trees, awkward for people to travel through, waste of space when not in use Water feature close to road Width of street incorporate buffers or wider sidewalks Cyclist experience cyclists Lighting design people with motion sickness, vertigo, and sensory issues (preference for overhead lighting) Overhead features material will be unusable during rain events Shade structures Harvest tables Rolling curbs Tactile treatments Vandalism/use unsafe conditions Consultation Capers Bar contributing to unsafe downtown conditions 61 (*various - add street 1 shut street down could have projection wall to Utilize local artists to create murals, lyrics, poetry and art on walls and laneways LED programmable lighting periodically available to local artists stream sports/movies/important events Murals, art, and narratives be broader and more inclusive to acknowledge Indigenous communities and traditional lands suggestions) More plaques, pictures, stories sculptures Implement music/orchestra in amphitheatre Implement more effective identifiers to key elements in design Utilize nice brickwork for sidewalks and crossings Implement outdoor markets for markets/events Pop-up restaurants/food trucks, outdoor patios Social media/flyers to let people know about nightlife/events Art/Culture keep trees next to living walls SUMMARY OF SUGGESTIONS, IDEAS, AND COMMENTS Ensure elements maintained properly (*popular)Limit concrete in amphitheatre to maximize green space, trees, landscaping, seating, and shading games with amphitheatre More pollinator friendly plants, edible plants, and flower pots More trees/vegetation and green space (tall trees for children to climb) Implement community garden Extend LID over parking Rather than water feature, implement more seating/shade More benches and seating areas throughout Ensure designs are practical and eco-friendly Greenery/Environment/Amphitheatre/Seating 62 - both architectural 1 (*popular) Create hybrid between concept 1 and 2 overhead features and lighting Keep lighting rustic (i.e. raw bulbs, heritage lighting, vintage gaslights with metal frame/border) lighting instead of metal trusses for overhead lighting (*common comment) Implement upward facing lights to celebrate architecture of heritage buildings Cover lanes to be used year round (i.e. glass canopy) Lights at ankle-level pointed upwards for pedestrian safety Lighted safety/emergency poles Lighting/Overhead (*popular) (*very popular) more security for widen sidewalks/bike consider sightlines into park incorporate multiple smaller implement pedestrian only streets/lanes SUMMARY OF SUGGESTIONS, IDEAS, AND COMMENTS Add more laneway nightlife into the design No cars Incorporate segregated bike lanes/paths bikes (sharrows do not always work) lanes Portable bike racks for events bike racks Increase security/level of safety for safety Have a pedestrian scramble at King/Queen intersection Add live chess/games/free outdoor activities Implement disposable cup dispenser, garbage/recycling/compost containers (industrial look/unique to the area such as thimble, boot, buttons) Implement water refill/drinking water stations for cyclists/pedestrians Public washrooms Bollards at night to close lanes Ensure design is senior friendly/accessible to all/inclusive of people with mobility, hearing and sight disabilities Unique signage for parking lots, laneways, etc. Pedestrian/Cyclist Environment APPENDIX E 1 - 63 1 - 64 65 - 1 1:400M GREEN WALLS SHARED SPACE UrbanPlacesGroup BENCHESPAVED SHARED ROAD1.5M PATHWAY CONNECTING DUKE STREET TO PARKING FLUSH CURB/TRENCH DRAIN OVERHEAD LIGHTINGGATEWAY PUBLIC ART/HERITAGE MARKER LIVING WALL OPPORTUNITY CONCESSION STAND ERB AND ERB FEDERAL BUILDING VOGELSANG GREEN LANDSCAPED STEPS/AMPHITHEATRE SEATING RAMP AND STAIRS GATEWAY PUBLIC ART POTENTIAL FUTURE BUILDING PLANTED PLAZA WITH OVERHEAD LIGHTING FLUSH CURB CONDITION ROAD BEAUTIFICATION LIGHT POLES W/INTEGRATED BICYCLE PARKING BMO 1.5m SEATING 0.5m 1m 3m TACTILE BUFFER/FLUSH CURB/TRENCH DRAIN KING ST. KING ST. TABLETOP RAISED INTERSECTION PAVED TRAVEL LANES LAMP STANDARD 1m3m CIBC PEDESTRIAN CLEARWAY 2m1.5m MIN. EDGEEMBELLISHMENT THE WALPER BUFFER STRIP EXISTING GREEN WALL PLANTED PARKING PLANTED PLAZA WITH OVERHEAD LIGHTING PAVED TRAVEL LANES A’A BUFFER STRIP STANDARD EDGE EMBELLISHMENT PEDESTRIAN CLEARWAY GATEWAY PLAZA WITH PUBLIC ART LRT STATION PLANTED BEDS WITH TREES AND SEATING MASTER PLAN RIGHT-OF-WAY SECTION A-A’ NTS ALTERNATE PLACEMAKING STRATEGYQUEEN STREETALTERNATE PLACEMAKING STRATEGY THE PLACETHE BOULEVARD ON QUEEN 66 - 1 POTENTIAL PATIO SPACESCENTRAL EVENT/PATIOAREA 1:400M VIBRANT NIGHTLIFE POP-UP MARKETS UrbanPlacesGroup BENCHESPAVED SHARED ROAD1.5M PATHWAY CONNECTING DUKE STREET TO PARKING FLUSH CURB/TRENCH DRAIN OVERHEAD LIGHTINGGATEWAY PUBLIC ART/HERITAGE MARKER LIVING WALL OPPORTUNITY CONCESSION STAND ERB AND ERB FEDERAL BUILDING VOGELSANG GREEN LANDSCAPED STEPS/AMPHITHEATRE SEATING RAMP AND STAIRS POTENTIAL FUTURE BUILDING PLANTED PLAZA WITH OVERHEAD LIGHTING C’C ON-STREET PATIOS FESTIVAL SPACE LIGHT POLES W/INTEGRATED BICYCLE PARKING BMO PEDESTRIAN CLEARWAY MIN. EDGEEMBELLISHMENT BUFFER STRIP SEASONAL PATIO KING ST. KING ST. TABLETOP RAISED INTERSECTION PAVED TRAVEL LANES SEASONAL PATIO EXTENSION CIBC B’B STANDARD EDGE EMBELLISHMENT THE WALPER BUFFER STRIP EXISTING GREEN WALL PLANTED PARKING PERMANENT PATIO PEDESTRIAN CLEARWAY PLANTED PLAZA WITH OVERHEAD LIGHTING RIGHT-OF-WAY SECTION C’C NTS PERMANENT AND SEASONAL PATIO LAYOUT PEDESTRIAN CLEARWAY MIN. EDGEEMBELLISHMENT BUFFER STRIP PAVED TRAVEL LANES GATEWAY PLAZA WITH PUBLIC ART LRT STATION UTILIZATION OF SEASONAL STREET CLOSURE PLANTED BEDS WITH TREES AND SEATING STANDARD EDGE EMBELLISHMENT BUFFER STRIP PEDESTRIAN CLEARWAY ACTIVATED STREETSCAPE QUEEN STREET THE PLACE RIGHT-OF-WAY SECTION B’B NTS UTILIZATION OF SEASONAL STREET CLOSURE