2006/04/24
,
FIFTH MEETING
Monday, April 24, 2006
From 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
City Hall, Committee Room #2A & B
1) Approval of the 2006-04-03 Community Services Minutes.
2) REPORTS: STAFF CONTACT:
a) MW-2006-36 Portage Road - Church's Lane to
Mountain Road Completion of Traffic
Calming Environmental Assessment Ed Dujlovic
b) MW-2006-45 Beaver Glen Drive @ Beaverton Boulevard
(East intersection) Intersection Control Review Ed Dujlovic
c) MW-2006-24 Ellen A venue Loading Zone Review Ed Dujlovic
d) MW-2006-47 Union Marsh Drain - Update Ed Dujlovic
e) MW-2006-43 Provincial Funding Ed Dujlovic
3) NEW BUSINESS:
4) ADJOURNMENT:
1I
,
MINUTES OF COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING
Monday, April 3,2006, City Hall, Room 2 at 5:00 p.m.
PRESENT: Chair - Alderman Pietrangelo, Mayor Ted Salci, Alderman Jim Diodati,
Alderman Joyce Morocco, Alderman Carolynn Ioannoni, Alderman Vince
Kerrio, Alderman Wayne Campbell.
REGRETS: Alderman Selina Volpatti,Tony Ravenda, Alderman Janice Wing.
STAFF: John MacDonald, Ed Dujlovic, Karen Kelly, Denyse Morrissey, Pat Burke,
Ken Burden, Dean Iorfida, Karl Dren, Doug Darbyson, Dale Morton,
Marianne Tikky - Steno
PRESS: Rob Lapensee, Niagara This Week, Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review
GUEST: John Kuntze - K Smart Associates, Craig Worden - Leger, Art Federow -
4079 Marshall Road, Wilft Weber, Joe Corradi, Donna & Rick Chamberlen -
1100 Sodom Road, Frank LaPenna - 11660 Sodom Road, Max & Rhonda
Kehl - 11684 Sodom Road, Laurel Waldrick - 12195 King Road, Pam &
Greg Macdonald - 5631 Bossert Road, Gord MacDonald - 10214 Willoughby
Drive, Jovo Maslek - 7724 Preakness, MaraKosanovich - 6763 Argyi1 Cres.,
Mile Monozlovich - 4513 Montrose Road, Tommy Bilotta - 6059 Harold
Street, Barbara & Gertrud Locher - 5127 Marshall Road, Jack & Kathy
Quiquero - 9546 Willoughby Drive, CliffBallinger - 5690 Bossert Road, Ron
& Jean Ballinger- 12001 King Road, LarryTrinole- 9588 Willoughby Drive,
Kevin Bowan - 5812 Bossert Road.
It was ORDERED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Alderman Campbell that
Alderman Pietrangelo chair the Community Services Committee meeting in Alderman Volpatti's
absence.
MINUTES
It was ORDERED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Alderman Kerrio, that the March
20, 2006 minutes be approved.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
REPORTS
a) MW-2006-28 - Municipal Drain Engineering Report Union Marsh Drain
Consultant John John Kuntze ofK Smart Associates gave a brief overview of the report being
presented at the Community Services Committee. The Chair then opened the floor for questions
from the residents attending the meeting.
Mr. Cliff Ballinger of 5690 Bossart Road advised Committee of comments from previous
meetings and handout a sheet indicating the costs allocated from 2005 and revised costs in 2006.
II "
-2-
The major concern was assessment associated with his and his neighbours property which does
not seem justified. The assessments range from $72.00 to $5,800.00. Mr. Ballinger feels just
because they live by the drain doesn't mean they should be penalized.
The Consultant John Kuntze advised that the 2005 assessments were preliminary numbers. The
only assessments being addressed are the 2006. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food has
mandated under new regulations that took affect in September 2005, that you must have a Farm
Tax Class Rate designation on your property to qualify for a grant of up to 1/3 of your assessment
value.
The Consultant further advised Committee that;
Benefit and Outlet Liabilitv
Benefit is their physical presence on the drain. Outlet Liability is a ridged calculation based on
the number of acres of land you have and how long it drains along the drain. Conservation land
the rate is adjusted downward.
User Pay situation, you pay on the amount ofthe drain that you use as outlined in the Drainage
Act. At no time was it explained that the assessments would be equalized or would be spread
uniformly over the watershed.
Art Federow of 4079 Marshall Road had the following comments;
. Does the improvements to the Union Marsh Drain run in conjunction with the Niagara
River Water Shed Rehabilitation Project that the Conservation Authority has initiated.
. Are the Ministry of Fisheries, Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of Transportation,
Regional Municipality of Niagara and the Province of Ontario contributing to the Union
Marsh Drain improvements?
.
The Consultant advised that the improvements to the drain were driven by the local community
to improve the drainage. The only government bodies contributing toward improvements to the
drain are the Ministry of Transportation and the Regional Municipality of Niagara.
Mr. Federow further questioned ifthe Rural tax dollars (general levy) pay for replacement of
sidewalks, curbs, streetlights, re- asp halting of roads in town. Why does the Rural residents then
have to pay to have the drain improved.
The Director of Finance advised that the Rural General Tax Levy does not pay for Street
Lighting, Sidewalks, Capital contributions & Transit.
Mayor Salci requested that staff consider the possibility of assisting in the funding of the
improvements of the Union Marsh Drain by using a portion of the Provincial Funds recently
received and investigate any other authorities that could also contribute to the improvements.
Alderman Campbell questioned staff and the consultant of the purpose of the Drainage Act and
if it is more appropriate for what is truly Rural Ontario as opposed the area in our community
that we refer to as the rural area. Alderman Campbell further questioned if the Drainage Act
was outdated as it may not be appropriate to use in the rural areas of Niagara Falls.
-- -.--
-3-
The Consultant cautioned Committee that if you fund the Union Marsh Drain the City is going
against everything that ever other municipality in Ontario is currently doing. The Union Marsh
Drain is not the only rural drain in Niagara Falls scheduled for improvements.
Frank LaPenna of 11660 Sodom Road advised Committee that every ditch in that rural area runs
into the Union Marsh Drain and is a storm drain for himself and his neighbours.
Mr. & Mrs. MacDonald of 5631 Bossert Road are concerned that the designated wetlands on
their property remain untouched. John Kuntze assured the MacDonald's that the water level
would not fluctuate that greatly.
Mr. Gord MacDonald of 10214 Willoughby Drive questioned if the residents in the area are
subsidizing the Legends of Niagara Golf Course and are they doing it at the expense of the
environment. The trees, shrubs and banks will be levelled to get heavy equipment in to basically
clean a creek even though the name has changed to Union Marsh Drain.
Questioned were raised with regards to a berm at the mouth of the river to the Union Marsh
Drain. The Consultant advised that the berm was not a part of this study and is only mentioned
in the report as it is at the mouth of the Union Marsh Drain. The berm is there to buffer the
surges that occur with the water level of the Niagara River not to block water.
Mr. Bowman questioned the need for the improvement, what was the (\riving force. The Director
of Municipal Works indicated that a report in 1987 identified a number of drains in the
municipality that needed to be improved due to poor drainage. Resident usually request their
ditches be deepened but if the water has no where to drain to the water will just sit there.
Mr. Rick Chamberland of 11107 Sodom Road indicated that the Union Marsh Drain goes
through his backyard making a 90 degree turn then another sharp 90 degree turn within 500 feet.
Mr. Chamberland is concerned that ifthe water flow is increased it will flood his yard.
Mr. Susan 1046 Ort Road advised he agrees that the Union Marsh Drain needs to improved in
order to improve the drainage but to have a few bear the burden of the costs and receive limited
benefit from the improvement seems unfair.
It was ORDERED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Alderman Diodati that staff
prepare a report on alternative funding for work on the Union Marsh Drain.
Motion: Carried
Conflict: Alderman Vince Kerrio - Has property on long the Union Marsh Drain
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
PRESENTATION
a) Leger - Employee Satisfaction Survey
Presented by: Craig Worden
It was ORDERED on the motion of Alderman Campbell and seconded by Alderman Diodati that
the Satisfaction Survey as presented by Craig Worden be received and filed.
II il
-4-
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
REPORTS
a) PD-2006-27 - Site Agreement, SPC-36/2002 6754-6788
Thorold Stone Road Applicant: 1184538 Ontario Limited
Inquiry about Zoning and Site Plan Compliance
It was ORDERED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Alderman Diodati that the
Community Services Committee receive this report for information purposes.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
b) MW-2006-24 - Ellen Avenue Loading Zone Review'
It was ORDERED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Alderman Campbell that
report MW-2006-24 be deferred.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
c) MW-2006-30 - Frederica Street Pedestrian Safety Review
It was ORDERED on the motion of Alderman Campbell and seconded by Alderman Ioannoni
that a solar flashing beacon be installed on Frederica Street to increase awareness to motorists of
potential crossing pedestrians on the roadway ahead.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
d) MW-2006-39 - New Sidewalk Construction East Side Drummond Road
It was ORDERED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Alderman Morocco that staff
be directed to proceed with further investigation and design of a new sidewalk on Drummond
Road starting at Morrison Street and terminating at the existing sidewalk at Perkins Street and
that funding sources be investigated.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
e) MW-2006-42 - Walker Industries Waste Disposal Environmental Assessment
It was ORDERED on the of Mayor Salci and seconded by Alderman Morocco that the Walker
Industries Waste Disposal Environmental Assessment be received for the information purposes.
--
-5-
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
It was ORDERED on the motion of Alderman Diodati and seconded by Alderman Kerrio that the
Community Services Committee be moved to an In-Camera Session.
Motion: Carried
IN-CAMERA
a) It was ORDERED on the motion of Alderman Campbell and seconded by Alderman
Kerrio that staff enter into negotiations for property.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2006-04-03.
ADJOURNMENT
It was ORDERED on the motion of Alderman Kerrio and seconded by Alderman Morocco that
the regular meeting of the Community Services Committee be adjourned at 7:10 p.m.
II il
Community Services Department MW-2006-36
Municipal Works Ed Dujlovic
4310 Queen Street Director
P.O. Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
web site: www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca
~ Tel.: (905) 356-7521
Fax: (905) 356-2354
E-mail: edujlovic@city.niagarafalls.on.ca
April 24, 2006
Alderman Selina Volpatti, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members: RE: MW-2006-36
Portage Road - Churchs Lane to Mountain Road
Completion of Traffic Calming Environmental Assessment
RECOMMENDATIONS:
It is recommended that the design stage for the installation of physical traffic calming devices on
Portage Road as identified in the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment be initiated.
BACKGROUND:
This is further to the resolution passed by Council in May 2005, to hire De1can to carry out a
Municipal Class B Environmental Assessment of Portage Rd for traffic calming.
A Public Information Meeting was held November 29, 2005, to present to the public potential
traffic calming alternatives. Invitations were distributed to homeowners within the study area
boundary, in addition to the placement of advertisements in two local newspapers. At the
meeting, staff and a representative from Delcan discussed traffic issues as well as alternative
solutions. Residents were also requested to complete a survey to assess the presentation material
and obtain their preference and/or comments regarding the preferred alternative.
In general, the traffic calming devices proposed in the preferred alternative were received
favorably amongst the residents attending the meeting. The preferred alternative includes a
combination of physical devices consisting of three (3) median islands, curb extensions at one (1)
intersection and three (3) speed humps.
The Notice of Completion was advertised on February 8 and February 11 in two local
newspapers. This notification provided residents the opportunity to view the completed
document and request a Part II Order from the Ministry of the Environment should they not be in
Working Together to Serve Our Community
Municipal Works' Fire Services' Parks. Recrealion & Culture' Business Development. Building & By-Law Services
II II
April 24, 2006 -2- MW-2006-36
agreement with the proposal. The notice expired on March 20, 2006, without objection, thus
rendering the Environmental Assessment complete.
Comments have however been received from the Region of Niagara notifying of their intention
to carry out an Environmental Assessment for Mountain Road encompassing the area of Portage
Road. The study will be commencing in the near future and will evaluate alternatives that may
include a realignment of Mountain Road and Portage Road. Dependant on the outcome of the
study, one (1) median traffic island calming device may potentially be affected. Therefore, the
construction ofthis device on Portage Road nearest Mountain Road should be re-evaluated upon
the completion ofthe Regions EA. This should however, not affect the design of the traffic
calming devices at this time.
Therefore, based on the above it is recommended that the implementation of the traffic calming
devices as noted in the document titled "Portage Road Traffic Calming Class Environmental
Assessment" proceed to the design stage.
Committee's concurrence with the recommendation outlined in this report would be appreciated.
Prepared by: Respectfully s'L;{
/;{/ &J~ ~ /11'
Karl Dren, C.E.T. ohn MacDonald
Manager of Traffic & Parking Services Chief Administrative Officer
Approved b
C;
Ed Dujlovic, P.Eng.
Director of Municipal Works
M.Carrick
S:\TPS\TPS 1.00 Administration\TPS 1.06 Reports\2006 Community Services\04 April 24\MW.2006-36 Portage Rd EA status report.wpd
---
i
''''-..,
\,"
'!l'r~
. ,F~ '.
, ~ . -
~, ;j$,.'~''''''''.-:'''''' ~."'-'r~"-'-"'~ .~ ,: ;
, ~-"',"'-
" ,.' r~
.."" ,.,,-
:; ~ . ! I: ~..,
, " , ," .. . I ' .
'c",' <I,} c. it !. .\c:l:\j; ~~ /, ' " ,Jet'
, _'ri<"''''' __' .1.' e,' ,....
.,,,.' , ,'''t' ' " ' ,c,.!h "'I " ' .' '
'lC'" ."..1""''' .. ,f '~..
'ou 1', ;. j', ~'" .' -' 1 · . ",' " '" ",,,,,,!,. ,
"" .' .' " ......' .\ ." ."'" ..
\,',_ ",,' \i fi/!"/ . ", , " ' ..>~ . ,"
., ., ., .. ,....... F . · "<
,'i . J<Ji'';JWi..' / ,)' ~
" ,," . .
!i ", ' ,j " .~ I ' ~ fff'-W!---"~
:'1 '" ~j' .,~ ""
"1"," . ,,- ~' " '
. ." - ."
; u' ~ "l.'~:' '''{. ,,,,,,,., ,~, !1,i, ,:
~" . ' .., ' ....' <Il\i<.
~. ... ,.' ... . ," ." ..
,,,,..' ,.. .' ' -,." .. ,., ., ...-
o ',,'," !f?"'C''',%' 'iJ -'I" ' ''\ I" ,,-,', ' .~' i ,;<
,,>,,_,""~'-'.-4'"'--'-"'-./ <~,y~ ..',.'" .. -'j ,(" ,-1\ll, .' ' '
! ,''''' Ji1.lt'~' "liI:"'"'' .. ,.J .' . '1' ' .
, .' ..... .....,..".~ F .' .
, ~ ' . ' j,. .ffI.... .",- .. ." ..
.~'~ ,,'" . ",Pc,'."''''':'".' ",. .. "'",'
. ..... .. . " .,
~. . .. '~:.~ . A" ,,./ ' .. '"'-:"
; C. '.. .....,' " . ,.. a
. .;' ." </'~ '. "
. . .... ~.
, ... ,.' .' ' '
....,. .' . ..
"",,_'C' . ..J' " ;-
". ,.... . ,.", . "
.. . ~l\cf.
. . ,,,,' - .
;) "'!'I1 '
'M; .,: ~. .
c ,,'" '
'I ,I .,,"1';
. Cc '>- . ..,c,~' ';;'.
'. ,.d'''' ..... f"
I . ~"c 'c' I cc ,.....c,.J".~
I " - .,,,,~;"""
" ' ,'" . ... .". ~...,
. .' .. ., ; ".' '. ,~.)'
. . . .". . >
, .,. - " "
. .' .. .
. . . "~""""..'l'.
,0. HF ~
., .,;",,,,"i-
. .. \ '. n, ...AI- .~'i ~
,J " 'II .. ....,/1".. , '
. ...... ,-
. ~ .h* 'f""''''' .
. .. I ' ' .' ,. ".
. " . '.' if . l. .. . h.\ ... li iii' ...
.. ..,. . ,.' . . .-
.~.. '. l:. ,d . ",' .1:' . "",'" ..'~ . ....
, . ~_.' .. . .~",' "....... ...~ -." ' . .
~.~.' .~.."'.1.."......,..'_"',.',-.,-'."',"..' ,.,,'".''......,.._-.''' '"'''"."1''''' "$;~" '~'J",.I;.j!""".".'''~''W''''''I'''' ,,"
61,.,/ "", "'r..'.... ..' . ..... ,,-' ~--~.. ,,",. .. ,\
. ' ~ " .., " __ _._' '. .... r _...... . .>m ..~W '.
. ."t,:, , ,1' ,i $\, II ",1I : 1 '...." ENVIRONMEN ",,~...;;;:g;:;:I'~
.I~J "" II .' TAL ASSE~-::=
. _ ' ~ ~.,. . .,': J PORT AGE ROAD T SSMENT r!
, . I ... \h RAFFIC CALMING . ~L.;.
: lrom(:bU"'~.C1~:'-;"""'.1'OlJo .
. "I' ,.' .' .~ro_ ".0...... ~,
. \
Community Services Department MW-2006-45
Municipal Works Ed Dujlovic
The City of f~ '''' "'OM "'-, Director
. P.O. Box 1023
Niagara Falls Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
Canada ~ web site: www.niagarafalls.ca
.J
.- Tel.: (905) 356-7521
Fax: (905) 356-2354
E-mail: edujlovic@niagarafalls.ca
April 24, 2006
Alderman Selina Volpatti, Chairperson
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: MW-2006-45
Beaver Glen Drive @ Beaverton Boulevard (east and west)
Intersection Control Review
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that:
I) a stop sign be installed at the intersection of Beaver Glen Drive @ Beaverton
Boulevard (east) facing southbound motorists on Beaver Glen Drive; and,
2) a stop sign be installed at the intersection of Beaver Glen Drive @ Brookside
Drive facing southbound motorists on Brookside Drive; and,
3) a stop sign be installed at the intersection ofSrookside Drive @ Windsong Drive
facing northbound motorists on Windsong Drive; and,
4) a stop sign be installed at the intersection of White Dove Parkway@ Windsong
Drive facing eastbound motorists on Windsong Drive; and,
5) a stop sign be installed at the intersection of Brookside Drive @ White Dove
Parkway facing northbound motorists on White Dove Parkway; and,
6) a stop sign be installed at the intersection of Beaverton Boulevard @ White Dove
Parkway facing southbound motorists on White Dove Parkway.
BACKGROUND:
Staff has been requested to conduct a review of the intersections of Beaver Glen Drive @
Beaverton Boulevard (east and west), to determine whether stop signs should be installed at these
locations. The request was made due to concerns of motorists exceeding the legal speed limit of
Beaverton Boulevard.
Working Together to Serve Our Community
Municipal Works' Fire SelVices . Parks, Recreation & Culture' Business Development. Building & By-Law Services
II II
April 24, 2006 -2- MW-2006-45
Both roadways, Beaver Glen Drive and Beaverton Boulevard are local roadways consisting of
two travel lanes, one in each direction. Sidewalks are present on both sides of Beaver Glen Drive
which extends in the east/west direction. East of Brookside Drive the roadway curves right to
extend briefly in the north/south direction. West of Brookside Drive the roadway curves to the
left and extends south where it also intersects Beaverton Boulevard. A sidewalk is also present
on the north side of Be avert on Boulevard which extends in the east/west direction. The width of
both roadways is 8 metres. Currently, parking is permitted on both sides of both roadways in the
study area. Beaverton Boulevard is illuminated during nighttime by light standards located on
both sides of the roadway. The roadways are located in the Beaver Valley Extension 1 & 2
Subdivisions, which are currently under further construction. The construction of the
subdivisions began in 1998 and construction of additional residences continues further to the east
and north of completed areas.
Staff has conducted speed studies on Beaverton Boulevard to determine whether a speeding
problem exists. Following the studies, it was revealed that the 85th percentile speed, the speed at
which the majority of motorists travel at or below is 50 km!h. The average speed of motorists on
the study section of the roadway is 42 km!h. The speed limit of Be avert on Boulevard is 50 km!h,
therefore a speeding problem is not evident as majority of motorists do not exceed the speed
limit. The speeds observed may be attributed to the curve on Beaverton Boulevard located just to
the west of Beaver Glen Drive which forces motorists to reduce speed when negotiating the
curve. A collision analysis was also conducted for the previous three year period to determine
whether a collision problem exists on Beaverton Boulevard or the intersections of Beaver Glen
Drive @BeavertonBoulevard(eastand west). The collision analysis reveals that a total of three
collisions have been reported in the study area in the previous three year period. Two collisions
occurred on Beaverton Boulevard between Beaver Glen Drive (east) and Beaver Valley Way.
The reported collisions include an approaching type and single motor vehicle type. A right angle
collision occurred at the intersection of Beaver Glen Drive @ Beaverton Boulevard (west).
Based on the analysis a collision problem does not exist on the study roadway, nor at the study
intersections.
Observations at the uncontrolled intersection of Be avert on Boulevard @ Beaver Glen Drive
(west) reveal low traffic activity at the "tee" intersection. Also, the southern approach terminates
in a cul-de-sac with a total of eight (8) homes on that section of the roadway. Majority of
motorists utilizing the intersection perform southbound left turns onto Beaverton Boulevard and
westbound right turns onto Beaver Glen Drive, resulting in very few conflicts between vehicles.
Visibility on all approaches is adequate. Based on this traffic controls are not required at this
location.
Observations at the intersection of Be avert on Boulevard @ Beaver Glen Drive (east), also an
uncontrolled "Tee" configuration revealed higher traffic volumes. It was observed that motorists
travelling eastbound on Beaver Glen Drive do not stop when entering Beaverton Boulevard. It is
therefore recommended that a stop control be installed at this location. Further observations of
the subdivisions reveal only the intersections of Beaverdams Road @ Beaver Valley Way and
Beaver Valley Way@ Beaverton Boulevard are controlled by stop signs. All other intersections,
not including the study locations, are currently uncontrolled. Therefore, it is recommended that
stop controls also be installed at the following intersections:
. Beaver Glen Drive @ Brookside Drive facing southbound motorists on Brookside Drive
. Brookside Drive @ Windsong Drive facing northbound motorists on Windsong Drive
. White Dove Parkway @ Windsong Drive facing eastbound motorists on Windsong Drive
--
, April 24, 2006 -3- MW.2006-45
. Beaverton Boulevard @ White Dove Parkway facing southbound motorists on White
Dove Parkway
. Brookside Drive @ White Dove Parkway facing northbound motorists on White Dove
Parkway
These stop signs will properly allocate the right-of-way for traffic proceeding through the
intersections, thereby improving safety for motorists as well as pedestrians.
In addition to the speeding concern, residents have the option of participating in the
Neighbourhood Speed Watch Program. This is a safety awareness program intended to give
motorists a friendly reminder of their speed when travelling through your neighbourhood. By
volunteering to participate in this program, residents have the opportunity to help make their
neighbourhood safer. Often, drivers who speed in residential areas are unaware of the effect their
actions have on the peace and safety of neighbours.
The radar board displays the actual speed of the passing car (whether it is speeding or not) and
helps the specific violator become aware oftheir excessive speed and lets them learn from the
experience, without the consequence of a fine. Staff will review the data collected and the
Niagara Regional Police may further assist in reducing speeds in the neighbourhood through
enforcement. You may contact Bart Skiba at extension 5201 for further information on this
program, or to schedule the use of the radar display board. No requests for participating in this
program have been received from this neighbourhood.
Committee's concurrence with the recommendation outlined in this report would be appreciated.
Prepared by: Respectfu; s:~Jt:JL
~~D- -
Karl Dren, C.E.T. John MacDonald
Manager of Traffic & Parking Services Chief Administrative Officer
Approved by:
CZ
Ed DujloVIC, P.Eng.
Director of Municipal Work
Bart SkibaS:\TPS\TPS 1.00 Administration\TPS ] .06 Reports\2006 Community Services\04 Apri124\MW-2006-45 Beaver Glen Drive @
Beaverton Boulevard-Intersection Control Review.wpd
II iI
..L
t"""'"O ~
o 8 ~
0'1:1
a 0 ~
-. '"
o (I)
::s 0-
'" r/1 ~
- !(ALAR RD.
0
'1:1
r/1 ..
_.
OCI
::s
z~ IJ::
~
9;O~ i
d~ ~ BROOKSIDE DR.
~~ ~
r;;= ~
.~ fg
:A
Z ;g
~
.... R
~ tll
rJQ ~
e; >0
t:t:I 0
:> (I) ~~ !? 0
:E '"
~ ~ C/)
Z -
-. (I) ..... tl
>-< .... ..... tl trl
tv -Q ~fIl C/)
.f;:o. ~ 0 ~
. ::s >-< z
tv (t g ~ '"
-. Cl
0 ~ 0 ~ tl
0 >'!j
0\ (I) .... '" ?'l
o _. >'!j
0. <: .....
o (I) (""l
~@ l(o )ld 3Aoa 31.IH
O~ '"Os:::
::Sl>) :>~
a~ ::tl:z
>-<~ ~.....
~O .....(""l
t:t:I _. ::s :z ..... ~
~ (I) t:t:I ~ '"0
~ 0 :> 7,.."
r/1 c OOt"' 'b
~ Ii" t."'l~ ~
-. < ~
cr' ~
I>) a. .....0
(""l~
~OO
Community Services Department MW-2006-24
Municipal Works Ed Dujlovic
lIie cny of f~ '''' 0,'00 ",,00' Director
Niagara Falls P.O. Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
Canada ~ web site: www.niagarafalls.ca
-<1#.
-- Tel.: (905) 356-7521
Fax: (905) 356-2354
E-mail: edujlovic@niagarafalls.ca
April 24, 2006
Alderman Selina Volpatti, Chairperson
and Members ofthe Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: MW-2006-24-Ellen Avenue
Parking Review
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that:
1) the "Loading Zone" located on the east side of Ellen Avenue just south of Centre Street
be relocated south to the adjacent parking stall, and;
2) the existing parking restriction at all times on the east side of Ellen Avenue between
Centre Street and a point 18 metres south of Centre Street be extended 6m to encompass
the existing loading zone, and;
3) two parking spaces be eliminated on the east side of Ellen Avenue between Magdalen
Street and the area be posted as a "no standing" zone available for transit vehicles
BACKGROUND:
Staff has been requested to review Ellen Avenue between Walnut Street and Ferry Street, and the
intersections of Centre Street @ Ellen A venue and Magdalen Street @ Ellen A venue, both of
which are controlled by all-way stops. The concern at these locations stems from Niagara Transit
vehicles having inadequate manoeuvring space when traversing Ellen Avenue, and as a result
conflicts with other motor vehicles are being experienced.
Currently there is a parking restriction along the entire west side of Ellen Avenue between
Walnut Street and Ferry Street. However, on the east side there is a combination of restricted
parking areas, on-street parking areas and one loading/unloading stall just south of Centre Street.
The width of Ellen Avenue ranges between 8 - 805m.
In the past Ellen A venue was utilized as a route for transit buses during only the summer period.
However, the route via Ellen Avenue has since become permanent and Victoria Avenue is no
Working Together to Serve Our Community
Municipal Works' Fire SelVices . Parks, Recrealion & Culture' Business Development. Building & By-Law Services
II ,I
April 24, 2006 -2- MW-2006-24
longer the primary route in this area. In addition to local transit buses, Ellen A venue is utilized
by tour buses as well as large delivery vehicles servicing the tourist district.
During an on-site visit with a representative of Niagara Transit, a concern pertaining to
manoeuverability oftransit buses was discussed. Identified were occurrences where buses have
collided with mirrors of passing vehicles, as well as experiencing delays. Observations indicated
that buses experienced difficulties at the intersections, namely Ellen Avenue @ Magdalen Street
and Ellen Avenue @ Centre Street.
On the east side of Ellen Avenue immediately south of Magdalen Street there is a transit stop.
However, there are on-street parking stalls located within the bus stop area. This forces buses to
double park to load/unload passengers, and encroach into the opposing lane when these spaces
are occupied. The elimination of2 on-street parking spaces will be required to provide
sufficient space for the transit stop.
Due to the close proximity of a loading/unloading zone on Ellen Avenue just south of Centre
Street, buses travelling in the northbound direction are not provided with enough corner
clearance to properly manoeuver in the northbound lane when the loading zone is occupied. As
a result, transit buses as well as vehicles encroach into the opposite lane hindering vehicular
movement through the intersection. When vehicles make turns from one roadway onto another,
additional space is required for curb clearance. When vehicles encroach onto the oncoming lane
these manoeuvres can no longer be carried out safely.
Staff has met with the owner of establishment 5040 Centre Street (Jacks Cantina) which is a
regular user of the existing loading/unloading zone. During the meeting staff notified the owner
ofthe establishment of the safety issues pertaining to the intersection when transit vehicles
encroach onto the opposite lane. The owner was notified of staffs suggestion to relocate the
loading zone to the parking space immediately to the south. However, as this would require the
removal of one parking stall near the establishment, this was not favourable with the
establishments owner.
A review of collisions on the roadway was conducted and reveals that there is not a collision
problem on the mid-block sections of Ellen Avenue. In the previous three year period a total of
four collisions were reported between Magdalen Street and Centre Street of which one collision
involved a transit bus. A total of four collisions were also reported between Magdalen Street and
Ferry Street. A collision pattern is however evident at the intersection of Ellen Avenue at Centre
Street, where a total of nine collisions were reported in the previous three year period. Of these
collisions, five involved angle collisions, one approaching, one rear end, one involving an
unattended vehicle and one involving a single motor vehicle. One collision involved an intercity
bus which collided with the side of a building when turning onto Centre Street from Ellen
Avenue. Niagara Transit had noted that previous damage sustained to transit vehicle mirrors was
not reported to the police and therefore, collision reports are not available. However, it is
estimated that there have been 3-4 ofthese occurrences since Ellen Avenue became the primary
route.
Based on the above it is recommended that the existing loading zone on Ellen Avenue south of
Centre Street be relocated southerly to the adjacent on-street parking space. This will eliminate
one parking space. It is also recommended that two parking stalls located on the east side of
Ellen Avenue just south of Magdalen Street be removed and replaced with "no standing" for the
bus stop. These revisions on Ellen A venue will address concerns expressed by the Employee
Health & Safety Committee at Niagara Transit without significantly affecting on-street parking
. April 24, 2006 -3- MW-2006-24
available for patrons. The loading zone, albeit moved by 6m will still be available for business
use (as illustrated in attached photo). These modifications will maximize safety and efficiency
along Ellen Avenue at the intersections.
Committee's concurrence with the recommendation outlined in this report would be appreciated.
Prepared by: R~~tfullY~
~ III "
Karl Dren, C.E.T. John MacDonald
Manager of Traffic & Parking Services Chief Administrative Officer
t[
Ed Dujlovic, P.Eng.
Director of Municipal Work
Bart SkibaS:\TPS\TPS 1.00 Administration\TPS 1.06 Reports\2006 Community Services\04 April 24\MW-2006-24 El1en Avenue - Parking
Review.wpd
I. il
h
" ,J
I
~,
- ..
- "--
~ -=::::::.:::::===~::
/
"",- ~
r
- ......
g~' """".-
""""...
~yO"
~, .-
.i3j
0000
~~
0> o:l
~~ ..0
.-
...;If;;il ,.:.::
00
<00 'g
~I.-'
-Z o:l
~~ 11) ~
Z~ ;::l ._
~< c ;>
~~ ~~
~ <OIl
U c .S
~t. - ~~
~ - o:l
~ ""p... \0
0
~ 0
N
Eo-< .
O<c ~ ~: f"')
...... -
~ ...... .;:::
"1 ~ 0..
CO <
..
~t. CO
=tl
CO
...
"V<y..> z
. ~
~t. =~
~~
~~~
~0
~ 05
ZZ
OIl
C C
0 .-
.- -0 11)
CIl C .....
OIl OIl OIl C o:l 5
s c S 11)..... ~ CIl
OIl C . O' ~ 00 _
~ c :.a 0;; -g..p ~ "" 0 CIl 0;;
Z .- o:l;> 0 o:l o:l Z C ;::l U5
,.:.:: OO.....:l<.)p...c oo:l
a .....:l s 0 -0 0 -0._ OIl
~ C -0-._ 11)..... d c
p... 0 -0 11) 11)..... CIl <.)
Co:) .- 11) 11) 11) ~ CIl <.) 0'- 11).-
00"0 CIl ~ ~ 0 .;::: 0.. ~ l:: ~
~'E'E 8,11) o..g g.~ 8 ~ ;::l ~
~CIlCl1088o....~p...~u
&l,~.tN "N ", I! ]
~ ~ I :
-
Community Services Department MW-2006-47
Municipal Works Ed Dujlovic
4310 Queen Street Director
P.O. Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
web site: www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca
.-
Tel.: (905) 356-7521
Fax: (905) 356-2354
E-mail: ed ujlovi@city.niagarafalls.on.ca
April 24, 2006
Aldern1an Selina Volpatti, Chairperson
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: MW-2006-47 - Union Marsh Drain Funding
RECOMMENDATION:
That this report be received and filed.
BACKGROUND:
At the April 3, 2006 Community Services Committee meeting, a motion was passed that staff
investigate alternative funding to offset property owner's costs for improvements to the Union Marsh
Drain. Past practice has been that property owners have been assessed for works carried out by the
City under the Drainage Act. In addition property owners in Niagara Falls have also been assessed
costs as a result of work carried out on drains in neighbouring municipalities that property owners
in Niagara Falls have received and benefitted from. The following chart lists the works that have
been completed recently within the City and neighbouring municipalities under the Drainage Act.
CITY OF NIAGARA FALLS TEE CREEK - 1995
City Road Allowance $] 45, 760.00
Landowners - City $60,290.00
Total - City of Niagara Falls Assessments $206,050.00
NOTL - AIRPORT DRAIN MAINTENANCE - 1997
DRAIN NO.2
City of Niagara Falls Road Allowance $ 2,775.00
City of Niagara Falls Landowners $] 7,055.00
Total - City of Niagara Falls Assessments $19,830.00
Workillg Together to Serve Our Community
Municipal Works' Fire Services' Parks, Recreation & Culture' Business Development. Building & By-Law Services
I. "
April 24, 2006 MW-2006-47
THOROLD- Allanport Drain Maintenance -1999
City of Niagara Falls Allowance $27,693.00
City of Niagara Falls Landowners $19,282.00
Total - City of Niagara Falls Assessments $46,975.00
CITY OF NIAGARA FALLS DRAIN NO.6 - 2002
City Road Allowances $22,900.00
Landowners - City $37,370.00
Total - City of Niagara Falls Assessments $60,270.00
NOTL - AIRPORT DRAIN MAINTENANCE - 2006
DRAIN NO.3
City of Niagara Falls Allowance $ 1,155.00
City of Niagara Falls Landowners $10,150.00
Total - City of Niagara Falls Assessments $11,305.00
Note: Landowners had the option of spreading the payment over ten years to the municipality on
their taxes interest free.
In addition to the work being proposed by the City on the Union Marsh Drain, the City is proceeding
with work on the Boyer's Creek Drain and Hunter's Drain under the Drainage Act. As indicated in
the 2006 Capital Budget the costs for Boyer's Creek is anticipated to be $580,000.00. The
preliminary assessment for the works is as follows.
. City of Niagara Falls Road Allowance $107,000.00
. Assessment other roads (Niagara Region & MTO) $121,100.00
. Assessment to Fort Erie Landowners $ 43,200.00
. Net Assessment to Niagara Falls Landowners $269,100.00
. Hunter's Drain
City Road Allowance $ 50,000.00
City Landowners $106,000.00
It is planned that the work for the two projects will be carried out in 2006.
At the Committee meeting the residents requested that the City pick up the entire costs of the
drainage works as they felt that part of their tax dollars is going to the construction of storm sewers
in the urban area of the City. Funding for storm and drainage works is provided through the General
Tax Rate and the Urban Tax Rate. The General Tax Rate is applied to all properties in the City. In
addition to the General Tax Rate, those properties that receive an urban service the Urban Tax Rate
is also applied. The General Tax Rate provides funding forroad side ditching, and funds the City's
assessment for work carried out under the Drainage Act. The Urban Tax Rate pays the Capital costs
for construction of new or replacement storm sewers and the maintenance of storm sewers.
Accordingly, the rural residents are not paying for the construction or maintenance of storm facilities
in the built up area of the City. For example the Storm Sewer Separation Project on Stanley Avenue
--...-
,April 24, 2006 MW.2006-47
has been funded by taxes through the Urban Tax Rate and the Utility Budget respectively.
City staff did undertake a review of possible alternative funding methods. In addition to the City of
Thorold and the Town of Niagara- on- the-Lake the Town of Fort Erie and the City of Port Co1borne
have also used the Drainage Act and have assessed private landowners for the works carried out. In
addition to the information provided by the consultant working on the Union Marsh Drain, K Smart
Associates Limited, we also contacted Weibe Engineering and Spriet Associates who have worked
on City's Drainage Act projects as well as hundreds of others throughout Ontario. The consultants
have never encountered a project done under the Drainage Act where the municipality paid all of the
assessment from the municipality's budget. One consultant did indicate that in Grimsby, the Town
did pay for a portion of the landowner assessment. This was only for properties in the urban area
and the funding was provided via the storm sewer budget.
Concerns have been raised should the City proceed to offset the assessment against landowners in
the City of Niagara Falls. This may result in an appeal by other road authorities such as the Ministry
of Transportation and the Region of Niagara and in the case of Boyer' s Creek those property owners
in the Town of Fort Erie. There could be difficulties before the Court of Revisions and the Drainage
Tribunal in regards to the division of costs. One possible way to minimize the matter would be to
provide a grant to property owners in the City of Niagara Falls only.
Should Council wish to proceed in this manner it will have an impact on the City's current and future
budgets not only for the major clean out of the drains but future maintenance costs. Not only will
the City have to budget for its own projects initiated under the Drainage Act it will also have to
monitor neighbouring municipalities and the works that they will be undertaking under the Act and
the impact that it will have on landowners in the City and budget funds to cover their assessments.
The assumption of the costs to private landowners for drainage works is a major shift in current
policy and is contrary to the public survey. In the survey carried out by Leger Marketing the public
responded that, "within budgetary contexts, 62% want to maintain/increase services, with plurality
44% preferring to do so via User Fees." This policy shift also has an impact upon Local
Improvement. Currently, in those areas where the City undertakes a road reconstruction and the road
does not have any curbs, the residents are offered the opportunity to install curbs at their costs.
Based on the above information it is staff's recommendation that the current practice for the payment
of landowner assessment of works under the Drainage Act be maintained. As indicated private
property will be provided the option to pay for their assessment via their tax bills over ten years with
no financing charges.
Committee's concurrence with the above recommendation would be appreciated.
Prepared b :
"
Ed Dujlovic
Director of Municipal Works
I. il
Community Services Department MW-2006-43
"'" CIIy of 1~ """,,,, W,,," Ed Oujlovlc
Niagara Falls 4310 Queen Street Director
P.O. Box 1023
Canada f!!J Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
_ web site: www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca
~
Tel.: (905) 356-7521
Fax: (905) 356-2354
E-mail: edujlovi@city.niagarafalls.on.ca
April 24, 2006
Aldernlan Selina Volpatti, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: MW-2006-43 - Provincial Funding - Move Ontario
RECOMMENDATION:
That the funds of$I,674,750.00 from the Province be used for the Road Rehabilitation and Bridge
RepairPrograms..-for-fhe.- ins+a.ll....-K...., of- +he' -foIIOI...fI~ SIcl.e.-.oCLIl::s in Oloolo', tin"mm<r11L
1U><lA. C.{(,,"" No~o...., -10 f/:rlc.in..s 57ra.f- o.nd m:: Lcact "ad (-from lYlorrfrose R.oo.d -h,
BACKGROUND: Wesf oF p..,., Oo.k. J)ri"ej
On Thursday, March 23, 2006 the Province of Ontario announced in its 2006 budget that it is
providing a one time investment of$400 million to help municipalities invest in municipal roads and
bridges through Move Ontario. The City ofNiagara Falls share of this $400million is $1,674,705.00.
The funding is to be provided immediately (received March 30, 2006) so that high priority proj ects
can get underway as soon as possible in the upcoming construction season. Although the budget
indicated that the funding was for roads and bridges the funds have been provided by the Province
unconditionally, that is, the City can use the funds at it's own discretion.
As Committee may recall, a report was presented on January 31, 2005 regarding the condition ofthe
City's road network. The report summarized that from 2005 - 2009 a total of $41.1 million was
required for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of City's roads. As a result Council approved an
additional allotment of$I.5 million in the 2005 Operating Budget for road purposes. This provided
a total of approximately $3.9 million in the road budget to address some of the concerns identified.
The budget for 2006 that was recently approved also provides $3.9 million from the Operating
Budget to address these needs. Based on the above funding levels only half of the identified road
needs will be addressed by 2009.
For 2006, $1,894,000.00 in funding is allocated to asphalt overlay/road rehabilitation. Phase I of
the overlay/rehabilitation contract is out for tender. The roads to be done are as follows;
Working Together to Serve Our Commullity
Municipal Works' Fire Services. Parks, Recreation & Culture' Business Development. Building & By-Law Services
II iI
.-
April 24. 2006 -2- MW-2006-43
Street From To
Belmont Lundy's Lane North Limit
Morrison Stanley Victoria
Ontario Queen Morrison
Wanless Montrose North Limit
Huron Ontario Crysler
Windermere Issac Dorchester
Huggins Windermere Portage
Green Boughs Olden Lalament
Kenndy Court
ONeil Dorchester Portage
Estimated Costs $650,000.00
Funding of $250,000.00 has been allocated to rehabilitate Victoria Avenue from Buttery Street to
River Road following the completion of the underground works as part of the High Rate Treatment
Project.
The remaining funds of $994,000.00 will be allocated to the following streets as specified.
Street From To
Casey Street Harte Circle Harriman Street
Jupiter Boulevard Wilinger Street Pluto Crescent
McMicking Street Wallace Crescent Cullimore Avenue
Cullimore Avenue Willis Street McMicking Street
London Court Crawford Street Limits
Whirlpool Road Church's Lane Niagara Parkway
Portage Road St. Paul Street Thorold Stone Road
St.Paul McMicking Street Dennis Lane
McMicking Street Cullimore Avenue McMicking Street
Balmoral Avenue Drummond Road Maureen Crescent
Second Avenue Bridge Street Hamilton Street
Third Avenue J espon Street McRae Street
Stamford Street Slater Avenue Ottawa Avenue
Ferguson Street Terrace Avenue Glenview Avenue
Buckley Avenue Huron Street Queen Street
Palmer Avenue Cookman Crescent Newman Hill
Bampfield Street Ontario Avenue River Road
Homewood Avenue Hamilton Street Limits
Second Avenue McRae Street Jepson Street
Second Avenue Armoury Street Valley Way
Leonard Avenue Lundy's Lane High Street
Leeming Street Glenholme Avenue Byng Avenue
Culp Street Corwin Avenue Carlton Avenue
April 24, 2006 -3- MW-2006-43
.
Street From To
Franklin Avenue Ash Street Murray Street
Corwin Crescent Erwin Crescent Walter Avenue
Hawkins Street Dell Avenue Pailsey Avenue
Buchner Place Drummond Road Limits
Level Avenue Dixon Street Dunn Street
Cleveland Avenue Dixon Street Dunn Street
Skinner Street Drummond Road Brant Street
Second Avenue Kitchener Street Roberts Street
Spring Street Buchanan Avenue Desson Avenue
Ellen Avenue Magdalen Street Walnut Street
Jubilee Drive McLeod Road Redhaven Crescent
Orchard Avenue Symmes Street Murray Street
Dunn Street Drummond Road Ralph Avenue
Progress Street Kister Road Limits
Drake Avenue Montcalm Crescent Wellington Street
Drake Avenue Rodney Street Welland Street
Dock Street Main Street Welland Street
Strang Drive Niagara Street Lamont Avenue
Bond Street Niagara Street Lamont Avenue
Regan Drive Furlong Avenue Galt Crescent
Regan Drive Galt Crescent Tramore Crescent
Galt Crescent Regan Drive Limits
Kentucky Court Aintree Drive Limits
Greendale Street Montrose Road Belmont Avenue
Rideau Street Kalar Road Eldorado Avenue
Buckingham Drive Kenisgton Court Pitton Road
Post Road Citation Road Ascot Circle
Durliat Road Montrose Road Holloway Bay Road
Ridge Road McKenney Road Limits
Holloway Bay Road Durliat Road Limits
Durliat Road Schihl Road Montrose Road
Not all of the roads will be done as the needs, $2,000,000.00, exceed funding available.
As indicated in the opening paragraph of the report, the funding provided by the Province is
unconditional and can be used by the City for other purposes. Projects suggested that have been
included the landowner assessment portion for the Union Marsh Drain $143,697.00. Should the City
proceed to cover this landowner assessement then funds of $269,100.00 will be needed for the
Boyer's Creek Drain project scheduled for 2006.
II "
April 24, 2006 -4- MW-2006-43
The City has also received requests for the installation of new sidewalks, they are as follows;
Street From To Total
Drummond Road Morrison Street Perkins Street $80,500.00
McLeod Road Oakwood Drive Montrose Road $95,000.00
McLeod Road Montrose Road West of Pin oak $35,000.00
Currently, the City budgets $100,000.00 per year for the installation of new sidewalks. This year's
funding, already approved by Council, has been allocated to the construction of new sidewalks on
the south side of Thorold Stone Road between Portage Road and Stanley Avenue. Based on the
current funding the above requests can be constructed in 2007 and 2008.
In light ofthe road needs it is staff's recommendation that the funds provided by the Province be
used to address identified road and bridge deficiencies.
[-~ espectfully submitted:
. Wlll1-(
Ed Dujlovic, P.Eng. ohn MacDonald
Director of Municipal Works Chief Administrative Officer
S:IREPORTS\2006 ReportsIMW-2006-43 - Provinica] Funding.wpd