HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-18 - Meeting Minutes - Board of Directors - Nov. 30, 2018Toronto and Region
_ Conservation
Authority
Board of Directors Meeting #9/18 was held at TRCA Head Office, on Friday, November 30,
2018. The Chair Maria Augimeri, called the meeting to order at 9:41 a.m.
PRESENT
Maria Augimeri
Paul Ainslie
Jack Ballinger
David Barrow
Vincent Crisanti
Glenn De Baeremaeker
Paula Fletcher
Chris Fonseca
Jack Heath
Jennifer Innis
Maria Kelleher
Matt Mahoney
Glenn Mason
Mike Mattos
Jennifer McKelvie
Linda Pabst
Michael Palleschi
Anthony Perruzza
Gino Rosati
ABSENT
Kevin Ashe
Ronald Chopowick
Jennifer Drake
Michael Ford
Brenda Hogg
Colleen Jordan
Jim Karygiannis
Giorgio Mammoliti
John Sprovieri
Chair
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Vice -Chair
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The Chair recited the Acknowledgement of Indigenous Territory
RES.#A180/18 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
MINUTES
Chris Fonseca
Jack Ballinger
THAT the Minutes of Meeting #8/18, held on October 26, 2018, be approved.
CARRIED
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PRESENTATIONS
6.1 A presentation by Michael Bender, Associate Director, Master Planning and Greenspace
Conservation, TRCA, in regard to item 8.1 — Draft Trail Strategy for the Greater Toronto
Region.
RES.#A181/18 - PRESENTATIONS
Moved by: Jack Heath
Seconded by: Paul Ainslie
THAT above -noted presentation 6.1 be received.
CARRIED
7.1 A letter dated November 28, 2018 from Omar McDadi, Acting Field Unit
Superintendent, Rouge National Urban Park, Parks Canada, in regard to item
8.2 - Goodwood Resource Management Tract Trail Plan Project.
RES.#A182/18 - CORRESPONDENCE
Moved by: Jack Ballinger
Seconded by: Glenn De Baeremaeker
THAT above -noted correspondence 7.1 be received.
CARRIED
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Parks Paras
Canada Canada
November 28, 2018
Board of Directors
Toronto Region Conservation Authority
101 Exchange Ave, Vaughan ON, L4K 5R6
Dear Board of Directors,
Parks Canada is proud to partner with the TRCA in many aspects of establishing
and operating Rouge National Urban Park, including the building of trails that will
help link the park to extensive and growing trail networks throughout the Greater
Toronto Region. I am pleased to submit this letter of support to recognize the
TRCA's exceptional work on the Goodwood Resource Management Tract (RMT)
Trail Plan, which will provide a key connection to Rouge National Urban Park at its
northern boundary.
Since the TRCA's intention to partner with Parks Canada on this planning
endeavour in 2016, the two organizations have collaborated on the development of
this TRCA-led initiative, including a $25,000 financial contribution from Parks
Canada to TRCA towards the completion of this plan, public engagement, and an
engineered study led by Parks Canada to establish a safe crossing over Webb Road.
The Goodwood RMT Trail Plan recognizes the critical junction of the Goodwood
Resource Management Tract in connecting Rouge National Urban Park to large
areas of protected public land in the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Township of
Uxbridge. The trail plan affords the opportunity to connect park trails with the Oak
Ridges Trail, thus opening up a world of opportunities for visitors to explore two
unique and irreplaceable features of the GTA—the park and the moraine.
I am proud to witness the successes of this project as it moves towards enhancing
visitor experience services and the preservation of the landscape's ecological
integrity. Please accept this letter of support for the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan
project.
Canada
pl
:rl
1�1Parks Paras
Canada Canada
Sincerely,
Omar McDadi
Acting Field Unit Superintendent, Rouge National Urban Park
Parks Canada, Government of Canada
omar. mcdadi @ canada. ca
Directeur p.i., Parc urbain national de la Rouge
Pares Canada, Gouvernement du Canada
.-®
anada
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Section I — Items for Board of Directors Action
RES.#A183/18 - DRAFT TRAIL STRATEGY FOR THE GREATER TORONTO REGION
Approval in principle. Approval of an approach to consult on the Draft
Trail Strategy and Workbook for the Greater Toronto Region and to utilize
the Draft Trail Strategy and the Workbook in the review of development
projects and plans.
Moved by: Jack Heath
Seconded by: Paul Ainslie
WHEREAS it is the objective of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to
collaborate with municipal partners, private interests, community groups and the general
public to realize a linked regional open space system with trail networks that connect
communities, parks and greenspace through landscapes and landforms like the river
valleys, the Lake Ontario waterfront, the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Niagara
Escarpment;
AND WHEREAS staff have drafted the Trail Strategy for the Greater Toronto Region
through engagement with these external partners to support this objective;
THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Draft Trail Strategy for the Greater Toronto
Region, dated November 2018, be endorsed in principle for the purposes of engaging
with external partners to obtain input prior to finalizing the Strategy and Workbook and
for informing staff reviews of projects and plans and preliminary budget submissions;
THAT TRCA staff report back to the Board of Directors by Q3 2019 for final approval of
the Strategy;
THAT staff use the Draft Trail Strategy and Workbook in their work with project partners
to develop budget submissions and to prepare an integrated phasing plan with
preliminary priorities and a corresponding financial strategy to kick-start implementation
of the Strategy;
AND FURTHER THAT TRCA's trail partners and the Regional Watershed Alliance be so
advised.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has a long history of nature -based trail
planning, development and delivery. Over the past 60 years, TRCA has worked in collaboration
with its regional trail partners to provide responsible access to nature through scenic
recreational trails and greenways. In 1989, TRCA proposed the concept of a Greater Toronto
Region trail network in greenspace that would connect the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Niagara
Escarpment to the shoreline of Lake Ontario. Inspired by the successful establishment of the
Bruce Trail, this proposed trail network would provide continuous public access from Lake
Ontario through TRCA valley lands to the magnificent landscapes of the TRCA region, including
the Oak Ridges Moraine and Bruce Trail.
Since 1989, TRCA has developed this network in partnership with community groups and all
levels of government. Within our jurisdiction, there are currently over 500 kilometres of regional
trails in greenspace connecting the municipalities of Mono, Peel, York, Durham and Toronto,
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including sections of the Bruce Trail, the Lake -to -Lake Trail, the Oak Ridges Trail, The Great
Trail (Trans Canada Trail) and the Waterfront Trail. In addition, TRCA has planned and
implemented local and neighbourhood trail connections to connect residents to conservation
lands and local trail systems. This comprehensive network has become an important
conservation mechanism to secure greenspace, mitigate climate change, improve human health
and well-being, promote responsible public access and inspire environmental stewardship.
Our region is experiencing unprecedented urban growth. By 2041, our population is projected to
increase by 40 per cent to reach close to 10 million residents (Ontario Ministry of Finance,
2017). Twelve of the Urban Growth Centres in the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe (Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs, 2017), including 25 new communities, are in
TRCA's jurisdiction. Increasing the amount of greenspace in our natural system is a primary
means to accommodate this projected urban growth while maintaining quality user experiences
and ecological functions. We must proactively and sensitively locate our trail infrastructure to
support these new and expanding communities while mitigating the environmental impact
associated with intensification.
Expanding greenspace and providing trails more equitably across our jurisdiction will provide
nature -based amenities, recreation opportunities and active transportation options to
underserved communities while improving our collective health and well-being. The creation of
new trails, trailheads and neighbourhood linkages to our regional system will facilitate access to
incredible destinations, allowing people to experience nature through the seasons. TRCA must
target our efforts and capitalize on development opportunities to realize these possibilities and
service this growth according to our environmental planning policies and objectives. TRCA must
also secure adequate and sustainable investment in this community infrastructure on our lands
and our partner owned lands that accounts for the full lifecycle costs of trails to maintain assets
in a state of good repair so that we can achieve our desired level of service.
In response to these influences, TRCA has prepared the Draft Trail Strategy for TRCA's
Jurisdiction (Trail Strategy) to provide a strategic vision for a complete regional trail network in
greenspace that facilitates sustainable living in this next generation of trails. As development
accelerates, TRCA will employ this Strategy and partner with municipal, provincial and federal
colleagues, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community partners and the development
industry to inform our efforts to acquire, protect and enhance natural assets and to achieve new
and upgraded trails, while connecting people to nature. Through this collaboration, ongoing
public securement of greenspace and the provision of scenic trail greenways will occur. At our
doorstep, we have precious natural landscapes with nature -based recreation trails across the
Oak Ridges Moraine, the Niagara Escarpment, our nine river valleys and the waterfront. By
working together strategically, we can grow and maintain this legacy in support of complete
communities, a thriving economy and a healthy environment.
In undertaking the Draft Trail Strategy, TRCA has followed a seven -stage process:
Stage 1: Scoping Study and Brief
Stage 2: Research and Context Review
Stage 3: Trails Inventory and Existing Conditions Audit
Stage 4: Trails Value and Demand Review
Stage 5: Strategic Objectives and Concept Plan Development
Stage 6: Draft Trail Strategy and Workbook
Stage 7: Communications and Branding Campaign (in progress)
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Throughout these project stages, TRCA business units across all divisions were consulted in
the Strategy development. This engagement also included working sessions with external
groups comprised of: Federal staff (Parks Canada), Provincial staff (Ontario Ministry of Tourism,
Culture and Sport), Regional Municipality staff (Peel, York, Durham and Toronto), Local
Municipality staff (Township of Adjala-Tosorontio, Town of Ajax, Town of Aurora, City of
Brampton, Town of Caledon, King Township, City of Markham, City of Mississauga, Town of
Mono, City of Pickering, Town of Richmond Hill, Township of Uxbridge, City of Vaughan, Town
of Whitch urch-Stouffville), Conservation Authorities (Conservation Ontario, Central Lake Ontario
Conservation Authority, Credit Valley Conservation, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation
Authority), charitable and advocacy organizations (Ontario Trails Council, Nature Conservancy
of Canada) and grassroots associations (Bruce Trail Conservancy, CycleTO, Durham Mountain
Biking Association, Green Durham Association, Humber Valley Heritage Trail Association, Oak
Ridges Trail Association, Trans Canada Trail, Trans Canada Trail Ontario, Waterfront
Regeneration Trust).
Through this engagement, our external partners communicated their strong support for the Draft
Trail Strategy. They confirmed that the Strategy addresses current shared challenges in trails
development, particularly initiatives that provide greater leadership around, investment in,
promotion of and full life -cycle management of the Greater Toronto Region trail network. They
strongly support coming together as a united voice to advocate for trail funding at the Regional,
Provincial and Federal levels.
In September 2018, the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA), which is an advisory board to our
Board of Directors, received the Draft Trail Strategy and presentation for information and input.
Following this presentation, the RWA voiced overall support for the Draft Trail Strategy.
Generally, RWA members wish to advance the objectives of the Strategy through grant and
program opportunities within their various networks, and municipalities. The RWA members
supported the alignment of the proposed trail and destination capital projects with municipal
work plans and budgets. The RWA also advocates that TRCA and partners seek funding from
all levels of government to implement the Strategy. The RWA resolved that the proposed
working groups of Greenspace and Ecosystem Services and Integrated Community/
Watershed Planning and Engagement consider integrating Trail Strategy priorities into their
work plans, including the formation of a Trail Leaders Round Table. Upon approval of this Draft
Trail Strategy, TRCA will follow up with these RWA subcommittees on these action items.
OVERVIEW
The Draft Trail Strategy outlines TRCA's plan to complete, expand, manage and celebrate the
Greater Toronto Region trail network in this next generation of trails. Its purpose is to express
TRCA's policy on regional trails in our greenspace system across our rapidly urbanizing
watersheds. It also serves as a framework to guide the planning, development and
management of these trails in the current landscape of urban intensification. In addition, the
Draft Trail Strategy provides rationale and informs effort to secure greenspace and should be
used to support the Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2016-2020 (GAP) and its future
iterations. As such, it will facilitate the concerted effort of expanding greenways and building the
Greater Toronto Region trail network in partnership with our trail community colleagues. The
Draft Trail Strategy consists of:
• A vision expressing what we want to achieve
• A concept describing our proposal
• Guiding principles to steer our efforts
• Context for our work
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• Strategic objectives to translate our vision into specific plans and projects
• Implementation plans to execute our concept
• An action plan outlining the strategic roadmap to achieve our vision
The vision for the Greater Toronto Region Trail network sees a complete regional trail system
in greenspace that connects our growing communities to nature and to each other, supporting
active living and enhancing our conservation legacy.
The concept for the Greater Toronto Region trail network sees the development of over 570
kilometres (km) of proposed trails through the Oak Ridges Moraine, the valleys of the
Etobicoke, Mimico, Highland, Petticoat and Duffins Creeks, the major valleys of the Don,
Humber and Rouge Rivers, the Lake Ontario Waterfront, through regional infrastructure
corridors, including transit, utility and electric power facility corridors and the introduction of blue
trails, which are paddling routes on our navigable waterways. Combined with the 530 km of
existing trails in our greenspace system, this concept would see the provision of over 1,100
km of regional trails for the Greater Toronto Region.
This concept builds on the existing regional trail system and capitalizes on current growth and
development opportunities to strategically expand greenspace and trails through a variety of
mechanisms. It also proposes investment in 10 conservation destination areas to enhance the
trail network and provide amenities. This concept is intended to be a point of departure for
discussion. It identifies the existing trail system, key missing links within the regional network,
and proposes opportunities for trail connections that would link into both the regional and
municipal trail systems. Many of the opportunities to be investigated extend beyond TRCA-
owned lands and require collaboration with member municipalities, private landowners and
other agencies. The proposed trail alignments are conceptual and represent potential segment
alignments to be refined through collaboration and negotiations.
Five guiding principles form the foundation of the Draft Trail Strategy, underpinning the vision
of the document and informing the rationale and methodology for its implementation: Lead,
Collaborate, Steward, Invest and Celebrate. Eight strategic objectives have been developed in
support of these principles to meet the challenges associated with trail development in the
Greater Toronto Region. These objectives, along with their associated initiatives and actions,
will guide TRCA and partners toward achieving the overarching vision of the Draft Trail Strategy.
The objectives are:
1. Organize effective trail leadership
2. Prioritize trail and destination area capital projects
3. Promote greater trail use and awareness
4. Build a sound knowledge base
5. Balance enjoyment and protection of our heritage
6. Promote meaningful community engagement
7. Support complete communities
8. Secure adequate and sustainable investment
The Draft Trail Strategy also includes an implementation Workbook to outline the steps required
to achieve our vision, concept and objectives and complete the Greater Toronto Region Trail
Network. The Workbook consists of:
• Trail Capital Projects: Candidate List
• Destination Area Projects: Candidate List
• Implementation Plans
Preliminary Order of Magnitude Costs
Action Plan
The Trail Capital Projects: Candidate List and Destination Area Projects: Candidate List outline
prioritized trail and destination area capital projects by region, to inform capital planning efforts
by TRCA and municipal trail partners. Each candidate project has been assigned an
implementation priority based on defined investment criteria. These capital projects are
illustrated in the Implementation Plans required to complete the Greater Toronto Region Trail
Network. The Action Plan organizes the eight strategic objectives and associated initiatives and
actions into a timeframe to be phased across short, medium and long-term time horizons.
The Draft Trail Strategy supports The Living City vision for a new kind of community where
human settlement can flourish forever as part of nature's beauty and diversity. In particular, it
reinforces TRCA's Leadership Strategy 3: Rethink greenspace to maximize its value, identified
in TRCA's Building the Living City®: 10 Year Strategic Plan 2013-2022. The expected outcomes
of the Draft Trail Strategy will be:
• Provision of connected routes and corridors for wildlife, recreation and active transportation
• Provision of natural spaces for play, exploration and recreation
• Provision and protection of green infrastructure and ecosystem services
• Protection of our cultural heritage and promotion of its understanding
• Support for opportunities for local food production
• Creation of opportunities for land-based education
• Enhancement of our physical landscapes, informing existing and future development
• Encouragement of urban regeneration
• Support for the economic potential of eco -tourism
• Improvement of social inclusion, equity and accessibility to greenspaces
• Improvement of opportunities to enjoy and connect with nature
• Reinforcement of our regional identity
See the Draft Trail Strateav and Workbook
RATIONALE
Since the original vision of the Greater Toronto Region trail network proposed in 1989, our
region has developed significantly. Thirty years of intensification warrants an update to the
Greater Toronto Region trail network concept as well as the development of an associated Trail
Strategy to deliver it. TRCA has the ability to bring four key strengths to continue the
development of a regional greenway trail network in the Greater Toronto Region.
Over 18,000 hectares of greenspace are currently secured by TRCA. This land is largely
associated with our large-scale regional natural features, including the valley and stream
corridors, Lake Ontario waterfront, Niagara Escarpment and Oak Ridges Moraine. These
features also serve as corridors where further securement will allow the completion of an
inter -regional trail network.
TRCA jurisdiction transcends local and regional government boundaries to include the
majority of the river valley corridors and a significant portion of the Lake Ontario Waterfront
and the Oak Ridges Moraine within the Greater Toronto Region.
3. Additional trail funding can be facilitated by TRCA and partners through municipal grants,
private donations and revenues.
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4. TRCA has accumulated considerable technical expertise in the field of trail planning, design,
construction, maintenance, assessment, monitoring and programming. As the author of the
1989 concept for the Greater Toronto Region trail network, TRCA is positioned to build on
this trails legacy.
FUNDING SOURCES
Regional trail projects are funded from a variety of sources. At TRCA, these sources include
revenues and occasional donations or government grants (see Table 1: Trail Funding
Sources). Financial resilience will require a greater range of eligible funding sources and
leveraging the revenue -generating potential of trails and related facilities. In addition to these
sources, TRCA will continue to engage with regional trail partners to capitalize on future
development opportunities that maximize budgets, time and resources.
TABLE 1: TRAIL FUNDING SOURCES
Development Charges (DCs) Development fees
Development Plan Approvals and Co-operative funding agreements
Municipal Infrastructure EA Approvals obtained through planning and
development approvals processes
Donations / Sponsorships
Federal Gas Tax Fund (GTF)
Government Grants
Funds received through Toronto and
Region Conservation Foundation (TRCF)
and/or from trail donation boxes,
Donations and sponsorships received
from volunteer trail associations, the
general public, the private sector and
donations directed through municipalities
Local infrastructure priority funding
Municipal, provincial or federal funding
Government Infrastructure Programs Provincial or federal funding programs
Municipal Taxes Municipal operating and/or capital
budgets
Revenues Municipal levies, capital, special projects
Public -Private Partnerships (PPP)
Pay -Per -Use
Co-operative funding arrangements,
Site-specific developer agreements
Trail user fees (parking, membership)
Many of the proposed trail and greenway connections in the Greater Toronto Region Trail
Network require partnerships with municipal partners, NGOs and the development industry.
Leveraging the development process to secure trail project funding and implementation
opportunities provides a mechanism for execution. The inclusion, siting and design of trails
should be considered at the initiation of the development process. With proper planning during
official plan reviews and from project outset, trails can be situated in the most appropriate
location for a particular development area. Municipal departments need to coordinate these
potential routes with TRCA and landowners as plans evolve for new community growth areas.
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Upgrading of existing connections should also be considered with wayfinding, parking and rest
areas, as needed.
As Secondary Plans and Master Environmental Servicing Plans (MESPs) are developed, TRCA
and partner municipalities should be looking at opportunities to implement the Greater Toronto
Region Trail Network plans to ensure that new neighbourhoods are well connected to municipal
parks and our greenspace system. Negotiations through the development process would also
include acquisition of major land holdings to facilitate inter -regional trails and community
connections. Municipalities should work with trail partners to ensure that short-term trail routes
and restoration opportunities are implemented with development funding, including
Development Charges (DCs) and considered in Section 37 Agreements, where such
opportunities are present. Long-term trail connections should be confirmed through the planning
process e.g., consent or subdivision process, by agreements, and through infrastructure
Environmental Assessments (EAs). Transit and transportation infrastructure also provides key
opportunities for implementing active trail linkages to the larger community systems and transit
hub stations. This Draft Trail Strategy will be considered where TRCA is reviewing transit and
transportation projects to ensure safe crossings, wayfinding and other measures are protected
for and designed into such projects.
Ongoing maintenance of trail routes can be challenging for only one agency with limited budget
flexibility. In existing neighbourhoods, or in areas that do not have upcoming development
opportunities, trail partners should leverage existing budgets and new funding opportunities
through federal, provincial and municipal infrastructure funding programs that support active
transportation, climate change adaptation and the creation of green infrastructure. Past
applicable provincial funding programs have included: Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP), the
Ontario Municipal Commuter Cycling Program (OMCC), the Ontario Sport and Recreation
Communities Fund (OSRCF), Ontario Trillium Foundation grants and Greenbelt Foundation
grants. Current applicable municipal funding programs include: York Region Pedestrian and
Cycling Municipal Partnership Program (YRMPP). TRCA and municipal trail partners must also
look to seize opportunities to align upcoming major infrastructure projects with the inclusion of
trail corridors. By capitalizing on complementary regional infrastructure project opportunities to
build trails, we can maximize our infrastructure, leverage funding opportunities and help to
complete the remaining gaps that exist.
Trails require sustained investment to address operating fund shortages required to manage
and maintain existing and proposed trails. In order to maintain their recreational and active
transportation functions, trails require ongoing funding to be maintained in a state of good repair
and to achieve their desired level of service. TRCA and its partners must strive to adopt the
principles of asset management in accounting for the full lifecycle of the natural and cultural
heritage and user monitoring, planning, design, implementation and maintenance of trails. The
Strategy recommends developing a Trail Lifecycle Costing Tool to fully account for these
activities in order to improve trail cost analysis. In addition, the Draft Trail Strategy recommends
TRCA and municipal trail partners create Trail Maintenance Reserve Funds for ongoing trail
operations and maintenance expenditures to improve our ability to adequately manage our
existing and proposed trail assets in a state of good repair.
GOVERNMENT OBJECTIVES AND PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES
The Draft Trail Strategy provides the government with a unique opportunity to meet its federal,
provincial and municipal objectives in a cost-effective manner. The Government of Canada is
making historic new investments in infrastructure to build the cities of the 21st century and
provide communities across the country with the tools they need to innovate and prosper. The
Investing in Canada Plan provides investment to support three key objectives:
• Create long-term economic growth
• Support a low carbon, green economy
• Build inclusive communities
The Strategy supports these objectives through provision of the five main infrastructure priorities
targeted by the Investing in Canada Plan:
Public Transit Infrastructure. The Greater Toronto Region trail network is a key
component of our region's active transportation network. Trails provide transportation
alternatives to cars, helping to reduce traffic congestion and long commutes that make it
harder for people to get to work and for families to spend time together. Trails also address
the current "first mile/last mile" (FMLM) barrier to the success of our regional public transit
system.
Green Infrastructure. The Greater Toronto Region trail network provides green
infrastructure that protects our communities and supports Canada's ongoing transition to a
clean growth economy. Greenways provide the needed forest vegetation that filters the air
and directly improves its quality. The buffering effect of vegetation in our river valleys is
important in controlling the delivery of surface pollutants to streams. The development of
trails through our greenways offers an opportunity for residents to see and smell, first hand,
the benefits of a strong network of natural open spaces in the local community.
Social Infrastructure. Investing in the Greater Toronto Region trail network is an
investment in our social fabric. The Strategy promotes investment in Indigenous
communities, out -of -classroom education, and cultural and recreational infrastructure
through trails. Indigenous peoples, educators, volunteers and grassroots organizations are
key partners in creating and managing our regional trail network. Working in partnership,
meaningful relationships can be created to respect and celebrate various cultural ways and
beliefs, improving the quality of life for present and future generations.
Trade and Transportation Infrastructure. The Greater Toronto Region trail network
supports the development of stronger, more efficient transportation corridors in our region.
Trails integrated into our public transit network provide residents with an active
transportation alternative to move about their daily lives, helping to reduce road congestion,
bottlenecks and capacity issues. Trails help the transportation system withstand the effects
of climate change by acting as a climate change mitigation measure.
5. Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure. The Greater Toronto Region trail
network connects rural communities in the protected northern areas of the Niagara
Escarpment, the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Greenbelt to the growing suburban and urban
communities of the Greater Toronto Region. It also connects rural communities beyond
TRCA jurisdiction by linking into Provincially and Federally significant trails, including the
Bruce Trail, the Lake -to -Lake Trail, the Oak Ridges Trail, The Great Trail (the Trans Canada
Trail) and the Waterfront Trail.
Furthermore, nine mandates of the Government of Ontario are supported by the Draft Trail
Strategy:
1. The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS) has identified walking as one of the
most popular active living pursuits in Ontario. Public trails provide an accessible recreation
alternative for all Ontarians. Eco -touring throughout Southern Ontario is a growing tourist
business that requires a strong network of hiking and cycling trails linking the city to the
country. From the standpoint of cultural heritage, trail development in greenway corridors
encourages the cataloguing and development of archaeology resources. With over 18,000
hectares of valley and waterfront lands, TRCA is custodian to the largest reserve of
archaeological resources in Southern Ontario. The Ontario Sport and Recreation
Communities Fund (OSRCF) is a grant program that supports a vision of getting and
keeping Ontarians active in community sport, recreation and physical activity.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) plays a role in the planning and
management of natural heritage systems, including the provision of sustainable outdoor
recreation opportunities and education on natural heritage. MNRF also partners with the
natural resources and forestry industry to demonstrate sound forest and wildlife
management in Southern Ontario. Greenway trails provide greater access to managed
forests and interpretive trails through Conservation Areas can educate the public on a wide
variety of vegetation and wildlife habitats in their communities. In terms of mineral resource
management, aggregate resource rehabilitation projects can support the development of
regional trails on the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Niagara Escarpment with the cooperation
of such groups as the Ontario Stone, Sand & Gravel Association. This type of partnership
resulted in the successful restoration of a former gravel pit in TRCA's East Duffins
Headwaters Properties (EDH) to provide for enhanced biodiversity, sustainable nature -
based recreation trails and interpretive education.
3. Trails provide opportunities for the Ministry of Education and school boards to animate the
course curriculum in out -of -classroom education across the disciplines. The 10 proposed
Conservation Area destinations, including TRCA facilities such as the Kortright Centre for
Conservation, Conservation Field Centres and Black Creek Pioneer Village, offer incredible
education opportunities through the interpretation on the trails.
The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services helps to build communities
that are resilient, inclusive and sustained by the economic and civic contributions of all
Ontarians. A sense of community is one of the most critical elements in sustaining a
neighbourhood. The development, management and programming of trails are strong
builders of community spirit. The active participation of community service clubs, organized
youth groups and creative recreation programs can help build a sense of pride that is critical
to the quality of life in our communities. Volunteer contributions range from raising funds to
building and maintaining trails. Reduced crime and an increased sense of self-worth are
natural by-products when community -driven projects like trails are encouraged.
5. The quality of our air and water are the direct concern of the Ministry of Environment,
Conservation and Parks. The buffering effect of vegetation in our river valleys is important
in controlling the delivery of surface pollutants to streams. The development of trails through
our greenways offers an opportunity for residents to experience the benefits of a strong
network of natural open spaces in the local community. The Waterfront Regeneration
Trust provides strong support for Greenway Trails in its legislative mandate and its ongoing
work with Provincial agencies, municipalities and shoreline residents. TRCA actively
supports those efforts by sharing staff expertise, funding and a coordinated approach to trail
management issues.
The development of inter -regional trail links throughout the Greater Toronto Region will
greatly enhance the community's ability to experience a healthy walk or cycle in a natural
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setting. The Ministry of Health can significantly enhance its promotion of the wellness
concept by encouraging communities to use greenway trails. The demonstrated health
elements are both physical and mental. A key result of a healthier community will be
reduced health care costs.
One of the many crossover benefits of greenway trails is the promotion of active
transportation and the subsequent reduction in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
The Ministry of Transportation supports the development of pedestrian and cycling
networks as a core part of Ontario's transportation system. Increasing cycling opportunities
in Ontario offers many benefits, including improved well-being, lower rates of chronic
conditions and reduced health care costs as a result of active living, reduced traffic
congestion in urban areas, a cleaner environment and increased tourism opportunities
across the province. The Greater Toronto Region trail network will offer pedestrians and
cyclists an environmentally safe alternative to move about their daily lives. Improved
mapping and signage between existing greenway trails will further enhance the enjoyment
and safety of such trails.
8. The Ministry of Indigenous Affairs works to ensure a better future for First Nations, Inuit
and Metis people. Trails provide opportunities for Indigenous communities to enhance
awareness about their culture and heritage through the exploration of interpretive trails.
9. The Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade supports a strong,
innovative economy that can provide jobs, opportunities and prosperity for all Ontarians.
There is ample evidence that trails not only enable Canadians to live actively in a healthier
environment, but also that trails most often economically benefit both adjacent landowners
and the local business community (Go for Green, The Economic Benefits of Trails). Direct
impacts of the Trail Strategy include equal opportunity employment for construction workers,
designers, technicians, researchers and planners. Indirect economic benefits include the
promotion of private commerce in such fields as increased sales for walking shoes, cross-
country skis, bicycles and their repair, public transit use, sport clothing, gift shops and
restaurants. The Bruce Trail Association has identified an economic spinoff of $44 million
(2018 dollars) from their trail system.
Finally, municipal mandates of the Regions of Durham, Peel and York and the City of
Toronto, as well as those of their lower -tier municipalities, are supported by the Draft Trail
Strategy. Regional and local governments recognize trails as essential green infrastructure
through the inclusion of recreational and active transportation trail policies in Strategic Plans,
Official Plans, Recreation Master Plans and Transportation Master Plans. These policies set out
standards for new communities, managing growth and development and protecting the
environment. All of the municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area make recommendations to
prioritize walking, cycling and transit to meet the needs of residents and develop complete
communities. Several Official Plans also include policies to improve connectivity between
greenspaces and cover the role of trails in active transportation, recreational service delivery,
community engagement and ecological enhancement. In response to population growth and
changing community needs, municipalities are constructing significant regional trail routes. For
example, York Region, the City of Toronto and the Town of Richmond Hill are implementing the
Lake -to -Lake Cycling Route and Walking Trail that will connect Lake Simcoe to Lake Ontario.
The City of Toronto has developed the Toronto Ravine Strategy a document that heightens
public awareness of the outstanding system of river valleys and forests, parks, major trail routes
and natural landscapes connecting to vast urban neighbourhoods. Our Draft Trail Strategy
builds on our collaboration for this Ravine Strategy, and sets the regional trail system forming a
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rich extension of landscape experiences from Toronto, north to the Oak Ridges Moraine and the
countryside beyond. New trail segment construction along the Humber Trail, the Etobicoke
Creek Trail and the East Don Trail are also recent examples of successful trail building
partnership projects between TRCA, the regions and local municipalities.
Based on these overlapping government objectives, implementation of the Draft Trail Strategy
with other municipal objectives should be possible and should strive to coordinate major funding
requests by TRCA and municipal partners with contributions from all levels of government and
include support from public groups and the private sector.
PRELIMINARY COSTING
Basic unit costs per linear metre for the various trail descriptions and types implemented in the
concept for the Greater Toronto Region Trail Network are shown in Table 2: Trail Unit Costs.
The basis for this costing has come from collaborative analysis with our municipal partners.
TABLE 2: TRAIL UNIT COSTS
TRAIL DESCRIPTIO
REGION
DOLLARS
Single -use
Durham
$2.3 $16.1 $21.0 1 $39.4
Construct new hiking trail in valley/ridge areas
Linear Metre
$
130.00
Multi -use
Construct new asphalt waterfront trail
Linear Metre
$ 1,240.00
Construct new asphalt trail in valley/ridge areas
Linear Metre
$
702.40
Construct new asphalt trail in road right-of-ways
Linear Metre
$
555.40
Construct new asphalt trail in utility corridors
Linear Metre
$
372.40
Bike -only
Construct new cycle -track trail along roadways
Linear Metre
$
450.00
Other Costs
Planning
Percentage
10.0%
Design and Engineering
Percentage
10.0%
Permitting
Percentage
10.0%
Contingency
Percentage
25.0%
Natural Heritage and Tree Compensation
Percentage
5.0%
These metrics were used to calculate the preliminary order of magnitude estimates for trail
construction project costs per region shown in Table 3: Trail Project Costs. This table includes
trail construction project costs per region, according to the high, medium or low implementation
priority phase of work categorized in the Draft Trail Strategy. Following partner consultation, the
Trail Capital Project List will be updated to include trail project costs on a per -segment basis to
highlight the cost of specific proposed trails (e.g., Seaton Trail, Humber Trail, etc.). Table 3
further itemizes trail project cost according to land ownership, by TRCA versus Other, per region
and identifies the corresponding expenditures.
TABLE 3: TRAIL PROJECT COSTS
PROJECTTRAIL • •
REGION
HIGH MEDIUM LOW TOTAL
PRIORITY PRIORITY PRIORITY
Durham
$2.3 $16.1 $21.0 1 $39.4
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Durham TRCA lands
$1.3
$0.6
$1.4
$3.3
Durham Other lands
$1.0
$15.5
$19.6
$36.1
Peel
$24.2
$12.9
$33.9
$71.0
Peel TRCA lands
$7.8
$0.0
$0.1
$7.9
Peel Other lands
$16.4
$12.9
$33.8
$63.1
Toronto
$52.2
$46.5
$5.1
$103.8
Toronto TRCA lands
$11.0
$3.0
$0.0
$14.0
Toronto Other lands
$41.2
$43.5
$5.1
$89.8
York
$49.9
$66.0
$54.7
$170.6
York TRCA lands
$18.0
$6.7
$2.6
$27.2
York Other lands
$31.9
$59.3
$52.1
$143.4
TOTAL TRCA lands
$38.1
$10.3
$4.1
$52.5
TOTAL Other lands
$90.5
$131.2
$110.6
$332.4
GRAND TOTAL
1 $128.61
$141.51
$114.7 1
$384.9
Based on preliminary high-level costing of the proposed trail connections, the total cost to
construct the proposed 570km of trails to complete the Greater Toronto Region Trail Network is
$384.9 million. Of this amount, the total cost of these new trail construction projects on
TRCA-owned lands is $52.5 million. The accuracy of this estimate is considered to be +/- 20
to 30% accurate. This cost is expected to increase annually according to projected inflation.
These trail construction project costs include planning, design and engineering, permits and
agreements, construction and contingencies. These trail construction project costs exclude
crossings, lighting, engineering features, site servicing and trail amenities.
TRCA is already undertaking trail and destination capital project work in support of the Draft
concept for the Greater Toronto Region Trail Network within approved capital budgets of
multiple TRCA and municipal partner programs.
IMPLEMENTATION
The Draft Trail Strategy is an evolving plan for trail connections as user needs change in an
expanding region. It will guide strategic planning directions for years to come. As growth area
community plans are finalized, municipalities will need to connect local neighbourhoods, old and
new, to greenspace attractions to meet community needs. These priority linkages will be set in
project discussions with municipal trail planning partners.
Following approval in principle of the Draft Trail Strategy, TRCA staff and external partners will
work together to evaluate, finalize and prioritize the proposed trail and destination capital
projects required to complete the Greater Toronto Region Trail Network. The Draft Trail
Strategy: Workbook has been developed as a reference tool to facilitate this effort. The
Workbook provides a Draft list of proposed trail and destination area capital projects organized
by region and municipality. It also includes implementation plans and an action plan to guide the
execution of the Strategy over a multi-year approach, as well as outlining preliminary order of
magnitude costs for the proposed trails. The Workbook will assist TRCA and municipal partners
in prioritizing trail projects, aligning capital budgets and coordinating funding requests and
commitments. This exercise will lead to the development of a phasing plan with preliminary
priorities for each region within TRCA's watershed and a corresponding financial strategy to
kick-start project implementation.
Upon final approval of the Trail Strategy by the Board of Directors, the following three priorities
will be immediately pursued:
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1. Organize Effective Trails Leadership. Establish an interdivisional Trail Working Group,
comprised of staff from Finance, Restoration and Infrastructure, PMO, Greenspace and
communications business units to guide the implementation of the Strategy and coordinate its
delivery across TRCA business units. The group will also align trail and destination projects with
municipal budgets and advocate for projects and funding. This group will promote knowledge -
sharing, build capacity and focus fundraising efforts in support of the Strategy.
2. Prioritize Trail and Destination Projects. The Trail Working Group will meet with the Trail
Leaders Round Table, that was established via the RWA interest in supporting this initiative, to
utilize the Trail Strategy: Workbook to evaluate, finalize and help to prioritize the proposed trail
and destination capital projects required to complete the Greater Toronto Region Trail Network.
This meeting or meetings will inform staff efforts to finalize the prioritized Trail and Destination
Area capital projects lists and perform high-level cost analysis for confirmed capital projects.
TRCA staff will work with municipal partners to develop a phasing plan with preliminary priorities
and a corresponding financial strategy to kick-start trail project implementation.
3. Promote Greater Trail Use and Awareness. The Trail Working Group and Trail Leaders
Round Table will produce a digital and print map of the Greater Toronto Region Trail Network to
provide clear wayfinding information for improved user orientation, safety and experience. They
will implement a communications plan to promote the network and to generate support to
secure funding to implement the Strategy.
Implementation will also be assisted by the development of a Trail Handbook, which will form an
update to TRCA's Trail Planning and Design Guidelines Manual (1992), conveying sustainable
trail planning, design and best management practices.
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Funds utilized to prepare and finalize the Draft Trail Strategy are located in the Peel
Conservation Land Care and York Conservation Land Care accounts (440-01 and 442-01,
respectively). The recommendations in this report can be implemented within current base
budgets and resources included in the 2018-2019 Conservation Land Care program budgets.
One full-time equivalent (FTE) Senior Coordinator position in the Master Planning and
Greenspace Conservation business unit will be assigned as the primary coordinator for the Trail
Strategy. Tasks associated with supporting the Trail Strategy will also require ongoing senior
management and staff support from the business unit's Associate Director, Manager,
Supervisor, second Senior Coordinator and Administrative Coordinator.
In 2019, TRCA staff in the Planning and Development division will complete the following Trail
Strategy work:
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1. Finalize the Trail Strategy for TRCA Board of Directors approval.
2. Initiate administration of the Trail Strategy upon approval. Administration includes
overseeing all financial, operating, project planning, reporting and advisory components.
3. Advance the Action Plan.
4. Undertake one high-priority regional trail connection project in collaboration with municipal
trail partner(s).
5. Initiate preparation of the Trail Handbook.
The cost to complete this work in 2019 is $357,618.17.
In 2020 and beyond, TRCA staff in the Planning and Development division propose to complete
the following Trail Strategy work on an annual basis:
1. Administer the Trail Strategy, which will include considering all proposed amendments or
staff updates from municipalities.
2. Advance the Action Plan (see Workbook).
3. Undertake one or two prioritized regional trail connection projects per year in collaboration
with trail partner(s).
The total annual cost to complete this Trail Strategy work in 2020 and beyond is $229,280.87.
In 2019, monies required to fund the proposed Trail Strategy work will be made available in the
Peel Conservation Land Care and York Conservation Land Care accounts (440-01 and 442-01,
respectively). This cost will be accounted for in the projected 2019 Conservation Land Care
program budget. In 2020 and beyond, the total annual cost for proposed Trail Strategy work
required to increase the TRCA's trail program budget to meet the directions provided in the Trail
Strategy and its Workbook will be identified as an unmet need on the long list of TRCA's budget
planning process. Dependent upon TRCA project priorities, this unmet need may be advanced
to the short list, subject to support from the Senior Leadership Team. This budget increase is
required as operating funding, in order to support the successful ongoing administration and
execution of the Trail Strategy into the future while continuing to advance the full portfolio of
project work that is undertaken by the Master Planning and Greenspace Conservation business
unit beyond the Trail Strategy initiative.
As well, funding for specific Trail Strategy projects outlined in the Action Plan will be identified
as future unmet needs in TRCA's budget planning process. In conjunction with these requests,
staff will continue to explore the variety of additional funding sources outlined in Table 1: Trail
Funding Sources to contribute to the financial implementation of projects outlined in the Trail
Strategy.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Engage with external partners and the public to obtain final feedback to finalize the Draft
Trail Strategy (December 2018).
• Pursue and obtain funding to administer the Strategy and deliver priority trail and destination
capital projects with trail partners (ongoing).
• Finalize revisions to Draft Trail Strategy, based on the received input (March/April 2019).
• Develop a phasing plan with preliminary priorities and a corresponding financial strategy to
kick-start trail project implementation (April 2019).
• Continue to work with the Regional Watershed Alliance towards the establishment of a Trail
Leaders Roundtable.
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Report back to the Board of Directors with final Trail Strategy for approval (Q3 2019).
Utilize the Draft Trail Strategy in the review of current projects and plans.
Report prepared by: Caitlin Harrigan
Email: caitlin.harriganOtrca.on.ca
For Information contact: Caitlin Harrigan or Mike Bender
Emails: caitlin.harriganotrca.on.ca or mike. benderotrca.on.ca
Date: November 30, 2018
Attachments: 2
Attachment 1 — Draft Trail Strategy
Attachment 2 — Draft Trail Strategy Workbook
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RES.#A184/18 - GOODWOOD RESOURCE MANAGEMENT TRACT TRAIL PLAN
PROJECT
Approval of the Goodwood Resource Management Tract Trail Plan.
Moved by: Jack Ballinger
Seconded by: Glenn De Baeremaeker
WHEREAS The TRCA Board of Directors approved the undertaking of the Goodwood
Resource Management Tract Trail Plan Project;
AND WHEREAS Green Durham Association (GDA) and the Oak Ridges Trail Association
(ORTA) have committed to providing $50,000 towards the implementation of the plan
($40,000 GDA and $10,000 ORTA);
THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the draft Goodwood Resource Management
Tract Trail Plan dated September 2018 be approved;
THAT the Community Liaison Committee be so advised of the approval of the Trail Plan;
THAT the approved Trail Plan be circulated to the Township of Uxbridge, the Region of
Durham, Parks Canada, ORTA, GDA, and the Regional Watershed Alliance for information;
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff proceed to secure the
property agreements and/or acquisitions necessary to implement a safe trail connection
to Webb Road;
THAT TRCA staff conduct a focused engagement with First Nations on design of the
proposed Eagles Rest planned commemorative and viewing area to inform fundraising
efforts, detailed design, and construction.
AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff work with its partners and community leaders to seek
out and secure funds, grants, sponsors and donors that will contribute towards the
implementation of the Trail Plan.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The Goodwood Resource Management Tract (Goodwood RMT) is comprised of 127.5 hectares
(315 acres) of greenspace located in the West Duffins Creek subwatershed. The property is
bordered by Webb Road to the south, Concession 2 to the west, and Concession 3 to the east. It
is located entirely within the Township of Uxbridge in the Regional Municipality of Durham (see
Attachment 1). The property lies within the Oak Ridges Moraine, and is comprised entirely of
natural cover. The trail system on the property includes several kilometres dedicated to hiking,
snow -shoeing and cross-country skiing. The trail system includes a section of the main Oak
Ridges Trail and a side trail of the Oak Ridges Trail, which connects to Rouge National Urban
Park (RNUP) on the south side of Webb Road. The Goodwood RMT has historically been
managed as part of the Duff ins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties
(2003), and these trails were identified in that Management Plan.
The southern boundary of the Goodwood RMT is almost directly across the road from the
northernmost tip of RNUP. These northern RNUP lands were added to the Park in 2017, part of
an approximately 2,100 hectare (5,200 acre) northeastern addition that extends RNUP into
Durham Region and further into the Oak Ridges Moraine. Trans Canada Trail Ontario (TCTO) has
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expressed interest in connecting the Trans Canada Trail from its existing alignment in the East
Duffins Headwaters to RNUP through a new trail spur. A proposal has been made to establish this
new Trans Canada Trail route through co -designating sections of the existing Oak Ridges Trail
network, including the side trail within the Goodwood RMT. With both the Oak Ridges Trail and
the Trans Canada Trail running through the Goodwood RMT property, there is a key opportunity
to provide a trail gateway between these important interregional trail systems and the trail system
within the northern RNUP lands.
Understanding that there has never been a dedicated Trail Plan for the Goodwood RMT and a
new dedicated Trail Plan would address the possibilities of this new context, at Authority Meeting
#10/17, held on January 5, 2018, Resolution #A230/17 was approved as follows:
WHEREAS Green Durham Association in partnership with TRCA, Parks Canada, and the
Oak Ridges Trail Association has received $75, 000 from the Ontario Trillium Foundation
to undertake a public planning process for the Goodwood Resource Management Tract
Trail Plan project;
AND WHEREAS Parks Canada has committed to providing $33,000 towards the trail
planning project with a focus on developing a northern gateway from TRCA lands and the
Oak Ridges Trail to Rouge National Urban Park,
AND WHEREAS Green Durham Association and the Oak Ridges Trail Association have
committed to providing $50,000 towards the implementation of the plan ($40,000 Green
Durham Association, and $10,000 Oak Ridges Trail Association);
THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT staff initiate a public planning process in
partnership with Parks Canada, the Green Durham Association, and the Oak Ridges Trail
Association to undertake the Goodwood Resource Management Tract Trail Plan Project;
AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Authority on the final draft Trail Plan for
approval.
Trail Plan Process
The Goodwood RMT Trail Plan outlines overarching objectives for the trail system, trail
alignments, design standards, signage, amenities, and opportunities for design enhancements at
feature areas throughout the site. The Goodwood RMT Trail Plan was developed through a
collaborative process that engaged TRCA staff, municipal partners, stakeholders and community
members. This public planning process brought together partners with valuable expertise in
regional trail networks; the project was undertaken in partnership with Parks Canada, GDA,
ORTA, Trans Canada Trail (TCT) and the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
The planning process was undertaken in three phases, and the approval of the Goodwood RMT
Trail Plan is a component of the final phase of this process.
Phase 1 — Project Initiation and Study Inventory:
• Inventoried natural environment, land use context
• Inventoried existing trails and associated wayfinding and amenities
• Established a TRCA staff Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), host meeting
• Established a Community Liaison Committee (CLC), host meeting
Initiated on-line engagement (TRCA YourSay engagement website)
Undertook Initial outreach to Indigenous partners
Phase 2: Trail Planning — Alternatives and Preferred
• Developed trail network options
• Generated options for trail amenities and programming
• Generated design feature options to develop a trail gateway; acknowledging the
connection between RNUP, TRCA land, and regional trail connections (the Oak Ridges
Trail and Trans Canada Trail)
• Finalized a Terrestrial Biological Inventory Report for the Goodwood RMT and
surrounding area
• Held meetings with the TAC and CLC
• Hosted a Public Engagement Session
• Consulted with the Township of Uxbridge Accessibility Advisory Committee as part of
AODA Integrated Accessibility Standards (Ontario Regulation 191/11) requirements on
consultation with people with disabilities
• Identified a safe public crossing of Webb Road
• Evaluated trail network options and develop a preferred trail network alternative
• Refined trail amenities, wayfinding and programming opportunities
• Refined gateway design opportunities
Phase 3: Plan Finalization'
• Developed management recommendations and a phased implementation plan
• Developed trail design standards and design concepts for trail signage, amenities, and
feature areas, including gateway features
• Developed and finalized the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan document
• Fulfilled OTF & TCT grant requirements for recognition and reporting (OTF and TCT
grants contributed to funding for developing the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan)
• Obtain TRCA Board of Directors approval of Goodwood RMT Trail Plan
• Obtain Parks Canada, GDA and ORTA support for the plan
Engagement with TRCA staff and the public was critical to the planning process for the
Goodwood RMT Trail Plan. Public engagement was undertaken through a multidimensional
approach. The smaller CLC sought focused input from key external stakeholders, and broader
public engagement techniques enabled more general feedback from the broader community. The
project team also initiated engagement with First Nations, to continue as part of the detailed
design of specific trail plan components. Ajoint Ryerson/University of Toronto Graduate Studies
course employed the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan process as the inspiration for a semester -long
student project, and TRCA staff engaged with the students to share knowledge of the site and
give feedback on student ideas. On-line, traditional media, and face-to-face communication
methods were employed to provide information about the project and seek relevant input.
An open -house format Public Engagement Session was held on March 26, 2018, at the
Goodwood Community Centre (268 Highway 47, Goodwood, ON). It is estimated that approx 80
people attended the session, including the Township of Uxbridge Mayor and several Councillors,
' Certain elements of Plan Finalization are still outstanding at the time of TRCA Board of Directors approval
599
area residents, and local trail and environmental organizations. CLC members were also in
attendance. Materials presented to the public included the Goodwood RMT's regional context,
mapping showing vegetation communities and environmental features present on the property,
three trail network options, and ideas for trail infrastructure, amenities, programming, and
gateway features. There were also informational booths set up by various trail and environmental
organizations, including GDA, ORTA, the Uxbridge Trails Committee, TCTO, the East Duffins
Headwaters Stewardship Committee, and the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust. Key feedback
from the public included the desire for trail loops, though this comment often included the caveat
that any any new trails should not degrade the ecology of the site, and some attendees expressed
that there should not be any new trail linkages because of these environmental concerns.
Attendees expressed the desire to experience the scenic features of the site and the site's
topography. There was also a noted desire for better connections to the GO station, to RNUP, and
to the Goodwood community; to create a north -south gateway. Regarding amenities, attendees
expressed desire for wayfinding sighage, interpretive signage, postmarkers, observation
platforms, guided hikes, safe road crossings, more parking, viewpoints, separation between the
heavy equestrian area and hikers, bike parking, kiosks, trail juncture signage (with trail ratings,
nearby amenities, regional trail maps, etc.), archways, tick awareness programming, trail atlases,
rest/meeting points, garbage/recycling containers, boardwalks, educational programming for
children, horse -friendly access, and programs to prevent dogs -off -leash.
Trail Plan Objectives
Three overarching objectives guide the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan. These objectives are
informed by the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties, Living City
Policies for Planning and Development in the Watersheds of Toronto and Region Conservation
Authority (LCP), Building the Living City (TRCA's 2013-2022 Strategic Plan), The TRCA Trail
Strategy (Draft 2018), internal TRCA and public stakeholder engagement, and the property's
current regional context.
• Protect an Ecological Sanctuary - the first and foremost trail planning objective is to
protect the Goodwood RMT as an ecological sanctuary, minimizing impact to the integrity
of the site's sensitive ecological and landscape features.
• Develop a Regional Trail Gateway — the Goodwood RMT should create a gateway to
celebrate the transition between RNUP and the regional trail networks and greenspace
destinations of the surrounding landscape.
• Create a Natural and Cultural Heritage Destination —The Goodwood RMT should be a
destination in itself, celebrating the scenic natural and cultural features of the site and
providing engaging trail experiences.
Trail Network
The recommended trail network included in the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan (See Attachment 2)
supports the three overarching trail planning objectives described above. To fulfill the "Protect an
Ecological Sanctuary" trail planning objective, trail alignments are oriented away from the interior
of the site, maintaining the large central core area of the site as undisturbed habitat. The trail
alignments follow existing linear disturbances, namely existing formal and informal trails, and so
there are no new major areas of disturbance to sensitive flora, fauna, and vegetation
communities. The trail network fulfills the "Develop a Regional Trail Gateway" trail planning
objective, with links southwards to RNUP, eastwards along the Oak Ridges Trail/future Trans
Canada Trail to recreation destinations such as the East Duffins Headwaters, and trail links
westwards along the Oak Ridges Trail to the Lincolnville, Goodwood, and Stouffville communities.
To fulfill the "Create a Natural and Cultural Heritage Destination" trail planning objective, trail
alignments provide a connected system including a small loop. The trail alignments also cross
• 1
through a wide variety of environments and highlight unique natural and cultural heritage features
of the property.
The recommended Goodwood RMT trail network passes through a rich evolution of landscapes -
from remnant plantation forests to mixed -hardwood forests to open meadows and wetlands. The
trail network passes over a number of watercourses including the West Duffins Creek. Sections of
the trail network will also pass beside active agricultural lands. A number of remnant cultural
heritage features can be seen from the trail, which allude to the site's agricultural history. The
sloping trail system within the Goodwood RMT exemplifies the Oak Ridges Moraine topography
which characterizes the site and surrounding area. The authorized trail network will be
approximately 6.48 km in total length.
Minor variations from the trail alignments shown in Attachment 2 may occur during further
detailed design and trail construction based on site landscape barriers or opportunities for
improvements in slope sustainability. The Goodwood RMT trail network will include trail
re -alignments to help mitigate problematically steep grades in certain areas of the trail system,
minimize maintenance, or to avoid disturbance to the surrounding landscape as the trails are
constructed to the planned design standards. A minor re-route is also recommended at the
location where the trail connects to Webb Road, to better align the existing trail connection to
Webb Road with the location of a safe pedestrian road crossing. Trail closures are recommended
for the existing unauthorized trails not included in the recommended trail network. The trails will
permit hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, along with equestrian use on certain
sections. The highly natural character of the trails will be maintained — the trails will remain as
natural surface. The existing boardwalks and bridge over the West Duffins Creek are reaching the
end of their service life and should be upgraded/replaced. The technical details and level of
infrastructure needed for these bridges and boardwalks will be confirmed by a qualified
civil/structural engineer and based on appropriate geotechnical and geomorphic assessments.
Trail Design Standards
Tables 1 and 2 below represent typical trail design standards for the future Goodwood RMT trail
network as shown in Attachment 2. Implementing these design standards will involve widening
the trail at certain pinch points, additional clearing, and/or minor trail re-routes. Slight variations
from these standards may occur due to on-site landscape barriers or environmental conditions.
Table 1: Goodwood RMT Trail Network Design Standards - Hiking Trail
Trail Design Standards — Hiking Trail
Trail Tread Width
0.5 m
Trail Clearing Width
1 m
Trail Clearing Height
2.5 m
Trail Surfacing
Natural surface
Approximately 3.52 km of the Goodwood RMT Trail Network will be Hiking Trail standard.
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Table 2: Goodwood RMT Trail Network Design Standards - Equestrian Trail
Trail Design Standards — Equestrian Standards
Trail Tread Width
0.5 m minimum
Trail Clearing Width
1.8 m
Trail Clearing Height
3.5 m
Trail Surfacing
Natural surface
Approximately 2.92 km of the Goodwood RMT Trail Network will be Equestrian Trail standard.
This trail is designed to accommodate hiking uses as well.
Trail Feature Areas
The Goodwood RMT trail network will include design enhancements that highlight unique
features of the property, improve visitor experience, and tell a story about the natural and cultural
significance of the site. Many of these design features are clustered in specific areas to create
special places along the trail system. See Attachment 2 for the locations of these feature areas.
The Appendix: Goodwood Resource Management Tract Design Elements within Attachment 3
provides more detail on the conceptual design of these feature areas. The conceptual designs for
these areas will be further refined through detailed design and a structural engineering review of
the design components.
Maple Way (Concession 3 Entrance):
The Concession 3 Entrance is intended to be the main entrance to the Goodwood RMT. It is
therefore an important location to create a gathering space and rest area where visitors can meet
and orient themselves. Signage and wayfinding elements will improve the visibility of the property
— currently this entrance is almost hidden from view. In this area the trail follows an old farm road
allowance so the area is naturally open, and large mature maple trees provide a monumental
scenic presence.
Homestead:
The 'Homestead' area will tell the story of early Uxbridge settlers by revealing the c.1860 stone
building foundation, hidden for years in the wild overgrowth just north of the Oak Ridges Main
Trail. The history of the three 'Yeomen' who cultivated small areas of land for their families, their
farming practices, and the importance of settling close to Duffins Creek, will be shared with
interpretive signage installed in this reclaimed space. Designed as an outdoor room with seating
random flagstone paving, this location will become an educational destination for groups and
people of all ages.
Eagle's Rest:
The history of early Ontario relating to Indigenous First Nations people includes the trading of
commodities, formal agreements, and shared and evolving understandings. This area has been
designed with a wood deck look -out over Duffins Creek, inspired by the silhouette of an eagle
wing. This place is a gesture to honour the Indigenous communities that lived in and continue to
live in the Uxbridge area. The concept developed for this special place was inspired by an
impromptu water ceremony performed by an Indigenous elder at this location, and will be further
refined through future input and engagement with First Nations. The space will allow for people to
gather for ceremony, and will include seating for resting and teachings, as well as interpretive
signage to share the important cultural history of the Township of Uxbridge. In addition to any
input received from First Nations engagement, the conceptual design of this area will be further
refined through relevant engineering studies including a structural review.
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The Green Door (Webb Road Entrance):
This access point is almost directly across from RNUP, allowing the important interregional trails
that pass through the Goodwood RMT to connect to RNUP and vice versa. A gateway structure
and seating area would celebrate this important connection and the collaboration between the
trail partners who made it possible. The design of this structure shall be further refined through the
input of TRCA's trail partners. There is a small open area which provides space for this structure
as well as seating and wayfinding elements. TRCA will continue to coordinate with Parks Canada
to coordinate signage and welcome messaging between the Goodwood RMT and RNUP. Within
this Webb Road entrance area, a minor trail re-route is recommended to better align the existing
trail access from Webb Road with the location of a safe pedestrian road crossing. The location
and design of this crossing was determined through a site selection study and detailed design
completed by Dillon Consulting Ltd. An additional land acquisition and/or agreement is necessary
for this minor trail re-route. The construction of the pedestrian crossing will encourage trail
connectivity between the Goodwood RMT and RNUP by safely and efficiently connecting trail
users to the two trail networks within each of these properties on either side of Webb Road.
Water Pump Garden:
The Water Pump Garden is a rest spot beside a heritage tree, and is an opportunity for an
interpretive focal point. The design includes a circular space formed by a frame of random
flagstone paving and a curved bench (similar to that used in the Homestead), and will remind
visitors of the vital importance of clean water to early settler life.
West Duffins Ridge Lookout:
An old farm road follows a ridge overlooking the West Duffins Creek. Breaks in the trees provide a
view of the Creek, and a small seating and interpretation area takes advantage of this viewpoint.
Moraine Lookout:
A grassy open area at the top of a kame provides excellent internal views of the surrounding
rolling landscape, including lush forest and wetland. A small seating area allows visitors to take in
these views.
Wayfinding
Wayfinding elements are essential for visitor safety and orientation. A suite of wayfinding
elements will be incorporated into the Goodwood RMT trail system, both within the feature areas
and spread out on the site. This suite of wayfinding elements will include a new primary trailhead
kiosk, a new main entry sign, secondary trail maps, and postmarkers. The design of these
elements are detailed within Appendix: Goodwood Resource Management Tract Design
Elements (see Attachment 3). The design of elements not constructed previously by TRCA will
be confirmed through structural engineering review.
Amenities
Trail amenities provide improvements to visitor comfort, accessibility, and engagement with the
site. A suite of trail amenities will be incorporated into the Goodwood RMT trail system, both within
the feature areas and spread out on the site. The suite of trail amenities will include benches and
different forms of interpretive signage, detailed within Appendix: Goodwood Resource
Management Tract Design Elements (see Attachment 3). The design of elements not
constructed previously by TRCA will be confirmed through structural engineering review. Based
on ongoing visitor use monitoring and trail counter data, the need for on-site washrooms and
increased parking will be evaluated in coordination with Parks Canada's RNUP trail and welcome
areas planning.
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Accessibility
TRCA is committed to improving accessibility for persons with disabilities. It is anticipated that the
Goodwood RMT trail network will conform to almost all of the accessibility standards for
recreational trails set out by Regulation 191/11: Integrated Accessibility Standards, under the
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) (2005). Looking beyond these
accessibility standards, TRCA will implement design enhancements to the trail system to improve
accessibility for persons with visual impairments. A rope line feature is proposed along one side of
the trail from Concession 3 to the West Duffins Creek, to guide users along the path. At the
Concession 3 entrance, an interpretive 3D topographical model is proposed so that visitors can
feel the undulating landscape of the site. Further details on these interpretive features is
described within Appendix: Goodwood Resource Management Tract Design Elements (see
Attachment 3). The design of these features, as well as any additional specific accessibility
enhancements, will be refined through further engagement with the Uxbridge Accessibility
Advisory Committee. These enhanced accessibility features will help the Goodwood RMT trail
system fulfill the spirit of the AODA and provide engaging trail experiences to a wider variety of
abilities.
Trail Management
The existing Goodwood RMT trail system is managed and maintained by ORTA, through an
agreement with TRCA. Based on this agreement, ORTA is responsible for the maintenance,
repair, operation, and oversight of the Oak Ridges Trail system. However, ORTA is required to
report any trail safety hazards to TRCA in a timely manner. Also, a trail maintenance agreement
was signed between TRCA and GDA in May 2018 to allow GDA volunteers to undertake trail
maintenance along certain authorized trails on TRCA property until May 2019. The Oak Ridges
Side Trail/proposed Trans Canada Trail within the Goodwood RMT property is included within this
agreement. The Goodwood RMT trail system will continue to be maintained and managed
through partnerships with local organizations, including ORTA and/or GDA. Any maintenance and
management activities by these local organizations shall be authorized through maintenance
agreements with TRCA.
RATIONALE
The Goodwood RMT is located at a critical juncture in the regional trail landscape, and there has
never been a dedicated trail plan for the property. The Goodwood RMT Trail Plan capitalizes on
the opportunities of this new context, and the planning included extensive internal TRCA and
public stakeholder engagement, which has led to full support of the proposed Trail Plan. With
Parks Canada currently undertaking trail planning work within the new RNUP lands directly
across from the Goodwood RMT, and a Trans Canada Trail connection to RNUP proposed
through the Goodwood RMT, trail users and visitors to the area can be expected to increase in the
future. Environmental data collected in 2017 provides new insight into the site's unique high
habitat quality and its sensitivity to disturbance. Therefore, establishing a trail system that protects
the natural heritage of the Goodwood RMT is essential to successfully and sustainably
accommodate the area's anticipated increase in visitor use. Creating trail experiences within the
Goodwood RMT that showcase the site's rich natural and cultural heritage will encourage visitors
to branch out from RNUP and onto the interregional trail linkages which extend into popular TRCA
greenspace destinations connected by these trails, such as the East Duffins Headwaters.
Creating a gateway experience between RNUP and the Goodwood RMT demonstrates the
ongoing partnership between TRCA and Parks Canada, as well as the community organizations
that play a vital role in managing the interregional trails crossing through the Goodwood RMT.
The Goodwood RMT Trail Plan supports Building the Living City, TRCA's 2013-2022 Strategic
Plan, including the Five -Year Update to this Plan. By rethinking greenspace to maximize its
•1A
value, this plan capitalizes on the opportunities presented by the site's important position within
the regional trail landscape. Also, by continuing to support and celebrate the trail partnership
success stories with local community organizations in Durham Region, the Goodwood RMT Trail
Plan fosters sustainable citizenship. Finally, by creating more meaningful trail experiences
through interpretive elements and design features that speak to the natural and cultural heritage
of the area, the Goodwood RMT can help tell the story of the Toronto region.
TRCA Trail Strategy
The TRCA Trail Strategy provides a vision and direction for the planning, development, and
management of a complete regional trail system across TRCA's jurisdiction. With RNUP
classified as a Destination in the Trail Strategy, developing the Goodwood RMT as a gateway to
the Park helps to facilitate this initiative.
The implementation of the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan supports the implementation of the Trail
Strategy, as the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan aligns with a number of Strategic Objectives,
Initiatives, and Actions identified within the Trail Strategy Action Plan:
• "Plan, develop and maintain existing and proposed trails within TRCA-owned and
regulated areas in a manner consistent with TRCA's The Living City Policies" (Action A of
Initiative 5. 1, Ongoing Priority)
• "Continue to pursue existing funding sources and explore future funding sources to
establish and maintain sustained investment in the Greater Toronto Region Trail Network"
(Action C of Initiative 8. 1, Ongoing Priority)
• "Study and continue to implement sustainable trail planning, design, construction and
management best practices" (Action C of Initiative 4. 2, Short -Term Priority)
• "Support event programming, storytelling and educational opportunities to engage all
communities in celebration of our rich Indigenous and settler history" (Action C of Initiative
5.3, Short -Term Priority)
• "Partner with interested municipalities, communities, tourism agencies, private
businesses and trail organizations to promote destinations. (Action A of Initiative TZ
Short -Term Priority)
• "Offer trail monitoring and maintenance programs to volunteers to grow our network of trail
stewards" (Action 8 of Initiative 6. 1, Medium -Term Priority)
FINANCIAL DETAILS
The total cost to implement the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan is estimated at $1,494,000 over 9
years (adjusted for inflation from 2018 $CAD cost estimates). A phased implementation budget
has been developed for the plan and is included within Attachment 3. All cost estimates are
preliminary and will be refined through the results of technical study, structural review of design
components, and evaluation of financial capacity. Please note that $913,000 of this estimate
overlaps with the implementation budget for the Trans Canada Trail Connection — East Duffins
Headwaters to Rouge National Urban Park. As the management and operation of the Goodwood
RMT trail system will be undertaken by local trail volunteer organizations (ORTA, GDA), TRCA
does not anticipate to incur any additional yearly operating costs as a result of the Goodwood
RMT Trail Plan.
Funding to implement this Trail Plan is not currently within the allocation for trails management as
part of TRCA's budget from the Region of Durham. From the total estimated cost of $1,494,000
there is $913,000 that overlaps with the Trans Canada Trail Connection — East Duffins
Headwaters to Rouge National Urban Park cost, leaving a remaining amount of $581,000.
Therefore, the funding to implement the Trail Plan will be included on TRCA's Durham corporate
• 1 ,
long list of unmet needs for the 2020 budget cycle.
Priorities and opportunities for implementation of the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan will also be
influenced by emerging funding partnerships. The Trail Plan identifies a number of potential
funding sources including grants, sponsorships, municipalities, and partnerships with local trail
volunteer organizations. Staff will continue to work with project partners to prioritize and secure
additional funding for the various implementation components.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
The successful implementation of the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan will require the efforts of TRCA
and its partners.
TRCA will take the following actions:
• Circulate the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan with TRCA approval to GDA, Parks Canada,
ORTA, and the Regional Watershed Alliance for information (Fall 2018)
• Circulate the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan with TRCA approval to the Township of Uxbridge
and the Region of Durham for information (Fall 2018)
• Advise the CLC that the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan has received approval from the TRCA
Board (Fall 2018)
• Work with TRCA Property & Risk Management Staff to secure necessary property
agreements and/or acquisitions to ensure a safe trail connection to Webb Road (Winter
2019) using available funds, and or subject to obtaining funds.
• Continue to work with project partners to secure funds necessary to implement the trail
plan as described in the phased implementation budget (see Attachment 3) (ongoing
2019).
• Work with Parks Canada to further the implementation of the Webb Road pedestrian
crossing (ongoing 2019)
• Continue to collaborate with Parks Canada regarding signage, detailed pedestrian
crossing design, and future parking opportunities to ensure alignment with RNUP trail
planning work (ongoing 2019)
Report prepared by: Corinna Thomassen-Darby, ext. 5625
Emails: corinna.thomassen-darby0trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Corinna Thomassen-Darby, ext. 5625 or Mike Bender,
416400-2111
Emails: corinna.thomassen-darbyCcDtrca.on.ca, mike.benderCaD_trca.on.ca
Date: November 30, 2018
Attachments: 3
Attachment 3 - Goodwood Resource Management Tract Trail Plan
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RES.#A185/18 - TRANS CANADA TRAIL CONNECTION — EAST DUFFINS
HEADWATERS TO ROUGE NATIONAL URBAN PARK IN UXBRIDGE
Approval of the Trans Canada Trail Connection — East Duffins Headwaters
(EDH) to Rouge National Urban Park (RNUP) Final Report, which
proposes designation of an existing trail to be part of a new Trans Canada
Trail spur from the existing alignment within the EDH to RNUP.
Moved by: David Barrow
Seconded by: Michael Palleschi
WHEREAS The Goodwood Resource Management Tract (Goodwood RMT) Trail Plan
process has been completed, including confirmation of a recommended trail network
within the Goodwood RMT;
AND WHEREAS Trans Canada Trail (TCT) and Trans Canada Trail Ontario (TCTO) agreed
to contribute $35,000 towards confirming the new Trans Canada Trail route and the design
of a bridge crossing;
THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to
RNUP Final Report be approved;
THAT the approved Final Report be circulated to Lake Simcoe Region Conservation
Authority (LSRCA), who will bring the Final Report to the Regional Municipality of Durham
for endorsement;
THAT the endorsed Final Report be circulated to TCT and TCTO for approval;
THAT the approved Final Report be circulated to the Township of Uxbridge, Parks Canada,
Green Durham Association, the Oak Ridges Trail Association and the TRCA Regional
Watershed Alliance for information;
THAT TRCA staff continue to work with Parks Canada to further the implementation of the
Webb Road Crossing — detailed design and construction to be funded by Parks Canada;
AND FURTHER THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff actively
work with its partners and community leaders to seek out and secure funds, grants,
sponsors and donors that will contribute towards the implementation of this new Trans
Canada Trail spur connection.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
In 2017, approximately 2,100 hectares (5,200 acres) of land were added to RNUP, extending the
Park north into the Township of Uxbridge and further into the Oak Ridges Moraine. These new
lands now place RNUP in proximity to important interregional trail systems which showcase the
beauty of the Oak Ridges Moraine, namely the Oak Ridges Trail system, the Greenbelt Cycling
Route and the Trans Canada Trail. Recognizing this, TCT and TCTO expressed interest in
connecting the Trans Canada Trail from its existing alignment in the East Duff ins Headwaters to
RNUP utilizing a portion of the existing Oak Ridges Trail through a conjoined trail spur.
The Trans Canada Trail is the longest recreational trail in the world, crossing Canada from coast
to coast to coast for over 24,000 kilometres (km). The Trans Canada Trail generally runs
north -south through the Township of Uxbridge, entering the EDH complex of TRCA properties
from the north at approximately Concession 7 and Houston Road (the Walker Woods property). It
• We
is within EDH that the Trans Canada Trail intersects with the Oak Ridges Trail system. The Trans
Canada Trail then continues southwards from EDH through the City of Pickering and the Town of
Ajax to meet Lake Ontario at the mouth of the Duffins Creek, where it joins the Waterfront Trail
and continues west.
The Oak Ridges Trail network runs for over 300 km generally east -west across the length of the
Oak Ridges Moraine, and includes trail connections both to the Trans Canada Trail and to the
northernmost tip of RNUP. Within the Township of Uxbridge, the Oak Ridges Trail system crosses
through some of TRCA's most pristine greenspaces. These conservation lands help protect the
health of the Duffins Creek headwaters and preserve sensitive wildlife habitat in perpetuity. In
addition, the TRCA properties also provide "anchors" of public enjoyment allowing people to
explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Oak Ridges Moraine year-round. The Trans
Canada Trail Connection - EDH to RNUP will connect the existing Trans Canada Trail to RNUP
by conjoining with a 15.32 km section of the existing Oak Ridges Trail, crossing through these
high-quality TRCA greenspaces (see Attachment 1).
Project Process
During the spring of 2018, TCT and TCTO agreed to contribute $35,000 for TRCA to confirm the
route of the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP and undertake studies for the
alignment confirmation and design of a bridge crossing. The contribution agreement between
TCT and TRCA was signed on July 17, 2018.
The proposed Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP route was planned in concert with
the Goodwood Resource Management Tract (Goodwood RMT) Trail Plan's planning process,
and the results of this public planning process provided critical input for the final alignment of the
proposed Trans Canada Trail route. This public planning process determined the future
Goodwood RMT trail network, which includes the final large greenspace section of the proposed
Trans Canada Trail route, prior to confirming the remainder of the alignment along the Oak
Ridges Trail to EDH. This process also included the site selection and preliminary design of a safe
pedestrian crossing of Webb Road, which will directly link the proposed Trans Canada Trail route
with the RNUP trail system. A suite of trail improvements, wayfinding elements, amenities, and
feature areas were developed for the Goodwood RMT, and many of these elements are located
along the proposed Trans Canada Trail route within the Goodwood RMT property. This suite of
wayfinding elements and trail amenities were expanded along the proposed Trans Canada Trail
route into Secord Forest and Wildlife Area. As a result of the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan process,
it was determined that the proposed Trans Canada Trail route would not include a new bridge
crossing. During the internal and external public stakeholder engagement that took place as part
of the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan process and once alternatives had been vetted, the objective to
designate a new Trans Canada Trail connection between the existing Trans Canada Trail and
RNUP along the existing Oak Ridges Trail network was proposed to the public.
Outside of the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan process, multiple site walks were undertaken with
various TRCA technical staff teams to validate the proposed Trans Canada Trail route and
inventory the necessary trail infrastructure, wayfinding, and amenities improvements to create a
safe, engaging, and more accessible trail experience along this route. These site walks took place
on August 23, August 30, August 31, and September 10, 2018 and included each TRCA
greenspace property and the LSRCA-managed, Regional Municipality of Durham -owned
property along the proposed Trans Canada Trail alignment.
Based on the stages of work outlined above, a Final Report was compiled to detail the proposed
Trans Canada Trail route and the inventory of trail infrastructure, wayfinding, and amenity
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improvements to implement the route (see Attachment 2). A phased implementation budget was
also developed as part of this Final Report. Certain elements of the inventory, which support the
implementation of both the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan and the proposed Trans Canada Trail, are
included within the phased implementation budgets of both projects.
Description of the Proposed Route
The proposed Trans Canada Trail Connection - EDH to RNUP will be created through
co -designating a 15.32 km section of the existing Oak Ridges Trail network, leading from the
existing Trans Canada Trail route in the EDH to RNUP (see Attachment 1). The route will consist
of both trail sections in greenspace and trail sections on rural roads.
TRCA Walker Woods Greenway Section
The section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route within Walker Woods will follow along the
existing Oak Ridges Trail and pass through a well-connected network of local trails presenting a
great variety of trail loop alternatives. This large greenspace features mixed deciduous and
coniferous forest on the rolling topography of the Oak Ridges Moraine landscape. Lush forest
frames the trail corridor, with mature oaks and maples creating thick canopy above. Existing
parking lots near the proposed Trans Canada Trail are located at Walker Woods near Concession
7 and Houston Road (approximately 15 vehicle spaces), and at Concession 6 and Albright Road
(approximately 10 vehicle spaces). This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail is 1.69 km
long, and will be designed according to TRCA's trail design guidelines for hiking, cycling,
horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing use.
Concession 6 Roadway Section
This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route runs north -south along the road shoulder
of Concession 6, within a Township of Uxbridge road right-of-way. This two-lane roadway has a
highly rural character and is largely forested on both sides. A safe trail road crossing will be
necessary along this paved roadway section. This section is 0.47 km long, and will be designed to
accommodate hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are
also permitted and will be weather dependent.
TRCA North Walker Woods Greenway Section
The proposed Trans Canada Trail route within North Walker Woods crosses through a similar
landscape to Walker Woods, featuring lush mixed deciduous and coniferous forest with relatively
open understory showcasing the rolling topography of the Oak Ridges Moraine. Dappled sunlight
comes through the trees, illuminating parts of the forest floor below. Cool vernal ponds create
secluded havens for wetland wildlife and allow rare plant species to thrive. The sloping
topography of the Oak Ridges Moraine causes the trail to wind through peaceful green hollows
and along internal ridges. Loops of local trails criss-cross the site, with a small pull -off parking
area (accommodating approximately one to two vehicles) servicing the proposed Trans Canada
Trail route from the Concession 6 trail access. This section of the proposed route follows the Oak
Ridges Trail, is 2.72 km long, and will be designed according to TRCA's hiking and horseback
riding trail design guidelines. Cycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also permitted.
Brock Road Roadway Section
Brock Road is a fast-moving and heavily trafficked two-lane Regional Municipality of Durham
Road. This Regional Road has a large right-of-way, including wide road shoulders and mowed
grassy strips on both sides of the road. Within this section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail
route, the trail runs north -south along a mowed area spatially separated from the road by a grassy
buffer. The road lies within a rural environment surrounded by largely open fields, farms, and
forests. A safe trail road crossing is necessary along this roadway section. This section of the
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proposed Trans Canada Trail will follow the Oak Ridges Trail, is 0.75 km long, and will be
designed for hiking and horseback riding. Cycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also
permitted.
Durham Forest (Norton Tract)
This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route within the Durham Forest (Norton Tract)
passes through an area completely covered by thick forest, mainly mixed pine plantation. This
area was once a demonstration site for plantation management. The trail is characterized by a
generous clearing width, located mainly along an old forestry road. A small pull -off parking area
from Brock Road (accommodating approximately two to three vehicles) serves the proposed
Trans Canada Trail route, and there could be opportunity to expand this parking lot to
approximately six vehicles. A local trail connection from Norton Drive provides an additional
linkage to the proposed Trans Canada Trail route. This section of the proposed Trans Canada
Trail follows the Oak Ridges Trail, is 1.11 km long, and will be designed for hiking and horseback
riding. Cycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also permitted.
TRCA Clubine Tract
Within Clubine Tract the proposed Trans Canada Trail route continues from rows of pine
plantation through thick mixed coniferous/deciduous forest. While existing parking is limited to the
Concession 4 road shoulder, there could be opportunity to construct a small pull -off parking area
(accommodating approximately two to four vehicles) at the trail access from Concession 4. This
section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail follows the Oak Ridges Trail, is 1.12 km long, and will
be designed according to TRCA's hiking and horseback riding trail design guidelines. Cycling,
cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also permitted.
Concession 4 Roadway
This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route runs north -south along the road shoulder
of Concession 4, a Township of Uxbridge right-of-way. This two-lane roadway has a highly rural
character and is largely surrounded by farms, fields, and forests. A safe trail road crossing will be
necessary along this roadway section. This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route will
follow the existing Oak Ridges Trail, is 1.46 km long, and will be designed for hiking and
horseback riding. Cycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also permitted.
TRCA Secord Forest and Wildlife Area
Within Secord Forest and Wildlife Area the proposed Trans Canada Trail route runs through
highly varied environments, including mixed forest, plantation forest, open meadows, and a
number of wetland areas characterized by birch and cedar trees along with other hardwoods and
conifers. Headwater springs and streams spill through the property and pool into vernal ponds,
which are surrounded by lush vegetation and forested cedar marshes. A number of boardwalks
support the trail system, though this infrastructure is aging and should be replaced. Secord Pond,
a large dammed lake, is the central feature of this property and is seen to full advantage from the
trail. An existing parking lot near the centre of the site (accommodating approximately 15
vehicles) could serve the proposed Trans Canada Trail route in this area with the necessary
wayfinding improvements to direct people from the proposed Trans Canada Trail route to the
parking lot. This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail follows the main Oak Ridges Trail, is
2.93 km long, and will be designed according to TRCA's hiking trail design guideline. Cycling,
cross-country skiing, horseback riding and snowshoeing are also permitted.
Concession 3 Roadway
This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route runs north -south along the road shoulder
of Concession 3, a Township of Uxbridge right-of-way. This two-lane roadway has a highly rural
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character and is largely surrounded by farms, fields, and forests. A safe trail road crossing will be
necessary along this roadway section. This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail follows
the Oak Ridges Trail, is 0.13 km long, and will be designed for hiking and horseback riding.
Cycling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are also permitted.
TRCA Goodwood Resource Management Tract
The section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route within the Goodwood RMT will run through
historic conifer plantation, mixed forest and wetland patches. This property will essentially
become the gateway between RNUP and the key interregional trails that cross the Oak Ridges
Moraine, namely the Trans Canada Trail and the Oak Ridges Trail. Recognizing this important
gateway role, feature areas are planned at specific points along the trail system highlighting the
natural and cultural heritage of the site and surrounding landscape through amenities, wayfinding,
and interpretive elements. The majority of these feature areas are either along or close by the
proposed Trans Canada Trail route. A small pull -off parking area (accommodating approximately
one to two vehicles) serves the proposed Trans Canada Trail route from the Concession 3 trail
access. Parking for the Goodwood RMT could also be accommodated with the parking lot at
Secord Forest and Wildlife Area. This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail follows a small
portion of the main and a large section of a side section of the Oak Ridges Trail, is 2.77 km long,
and will be designed according to TRCA's hiking trail design guideline. Cycling, horseback riding,
cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are also permitted.
Webb Road Roadway Section
This section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route will provide the final connection to the
RNUP. This trail section is relatively short, running along the road shoulder of this Township of
Uxbridge two-lane road right-of-way. This roadway is surrounded by rural landscape,
characterized by active agricultural lands and open meadows. A trail crossing engineering study
for Webb Road was completed by Dillon Consulting Limited in partnership with Parks Canada,
providing the location and detailed design for a safe pedestrian road crossing to facilitate a trail
connection to RNUP. Construction of the crossing still needs to be completed. The Goodwood
RMT Trail Plan includes a recommendation for a minor trail re-route to better align the existing
trail access to Webb Road with the location of the safe pedestrian crossing of Webb Road. This
section of the proposed Trans Canada Trail will follow the secondary section of the Oak Ridges
Trail, is 0.17 km long, and will be designed for hiking and horseback riding. Cycling, cross-country
skiing, and snowshoeing are also permitted.
Proposed Trail Route Implementation
A detailed inventory and phased implementation budget for the trail improvements, wayfinding
elements, and amenities to support the establishment of the proposed Trans Canada Trail route
are provided within Appendix 2. The sections below summarize these improvements, wayfinding
elements, and amenities.
Trail Improvements
Along the proposed Trans Canada Trail route there are certain areas where the trail would benefit
from repair, modification, or additional supportive infrastructure. These improvements will
improve trail sustainability, safety, and/or functionality for various users along the proposed route.
These improvements include repair or replacement of the trail surface infrastructure, the
installation of new or replacement culverts, trail width modifications, design and construction of
safe pedestrian road crossings, parking expansions, and both major and minor trail
re -alignments.
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Wayfinding
In order for trail users to be aware that they are on the Trans Canada Trail and to orient
themselves while along this route, a robust regime of wayfinding signage should be installed.
Adequate wayfinding is essential for trail user safety and emergency response, but also improves
visitor experience. The design of elements on TRCA properties not constructed previously by
TRCA will be confirmed through structural engineering review.
Along the proposed Trans Canada Trail route, new and replacement postmarkers are
recommended in three styles based on their location — the standard EDH postmarkers are
proposed within or nearby to the TRCA's EDH properties complex (Walker Woods, North Walker
Woods, and Clubine Tract), LSRCA's Durham Forest style postmarkers are recommended within
the Durham Forest (Norton Tract) and the postmarker style recommended by the Goodwood
RMT Trail Plan is proposed within the Goodwood RMT and Secord Forest and Wildlife Area. New
and replacement primary trailhead kiosks are also recommended in the standard TRCA style,
Durham Forest style, and Goodwood RMT Trail Plan style based on the property differentiation
above. At secondary trail access points, new or replacement secondary trailhead maps are
recommended. Property name signs are recommended at trailheads to increase visibility and
identification of these entrances from the roadway. At the Goodwood RMT and Secord Forest and
Wildlife Area, main entry signs are proposed to announce the main entrance to these
greenspaces, bringing a higher profile and visibility to these properties.
The scheme of wayfinding signage proposed incorporates the 2018 Trans Canada Trail Signage
Guidelines. These signage guidelines outline requirements for standard Trans Canada
Trail-branded signage to be incorporated along the proposed Trans Canada Trail route in a
number of different sizes and locations. Within greenspace sections of the proposed Trans
Canada Trail route, this signage will be mounted on postmarkers. Along the roadway sections,
this signage will be mounted on metal u-bars within the road right-of-ways. Oak Ridges Trail
wayfinding signage already exists along this entire route and where possible and appropriate,
wayfinding signs for both the Trans Canada Trail and the Oak Ridges Trail will be combined.
Amenities and Feature Areas
Trail amenities improve visitor comfort, accessibility, and engagement with the surrounding
environment. A suite of trail amenities will be incorporated along the proposed Trans Canada Trail
route with a particular focus on the Goodwood RMT. The Goodwood RMT Trail Plan recommends
an elevated program of trail design enhancements in specific areas of the site that highlight
unique features of the property, improve visitor experience, and tell a story about the natural and
cultural significance of the site. These amenities and design features were developed as part of
the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan planning process. Many of these feature areas are located on or
near the proposed Trans Canada Trail route, and they have the potential to add value and interest
to the route. Further details on these feature areas can be found in the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan,
or within Section 5.4 of the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP Final Report (see
Attachment 2). More broadly along the proposed Trans Canada Trail route, wood benches are
recommended at scenic locations within greenspace sections of the trail to improve visitor comfort
and accessibility.
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Accessibility
TRCA is committed to improving accessibility for persons with disabilities, and efforts will be made
to improve accessibility along the proposed Trans Canada Trail route. TRCA will undertake
accessibility audits of all the relevant trails to be included on the signs at primary and secondary
trail heads, to ensure that these signs will fulfill the relevant accessibility standards for recreational
trails set out by Regulation 191/11: Integrated Accessibility Standards, under the Accessibility for
Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) (2005). This information will be posted online on the TRCA
website and in other communications materials, along with trail mapping, permitted uses,
etiquette, and amenities locations.
Looking beyond these accessibility standards, the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan recommends
design enhancements to the Goodwood RMT trail system to improve accessibility for persons
with visual impairments. These design enhancements are either along or connected to the
proposed Trans Canada Trail route. A rope line feature is proposed along one side of the trail from
Concession 3 to the West Duffins Creek, to guide users along the path. At the Concession 3
entrance, an interpretive 3D topographical model is proposed so that visitors can feel the
undulating moraine landscape of the site. Further details on these features are described within
Section 5.5 of the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP Final Report (see Attachment
2) and within Section 5.7of the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan. While the proposed Trans Canada
Trail route will be designated on existing trails and therefore many of the AODA standards do not
apply, these enhanced accessibility features will help to fulfill the spirit of the AODA, support
TRCA's commitment to improving accessibility for persons with disabilities, and provide engaging
trail experiences to a wider variety of abilities.
Trail Management
The existing trails intended for co -designation as Trans Canada Trail are currently part of the Oak
Ridges Trail system and are managed and maintained by the Oak Ridges Trail Association
(ORTA). ORTA is a volunteer group with a mandate to build and maintain a public hiking trail on
the Oak Ridges Moraine, in greenspace wherever possible. ORTA conducts regular outreach and
programming to promote and support their trail network through their various local chapters, and
currently have a membership of over 700 volunteers. ORTA have formally expressed their
support for the proposed Trans Canada Trail connection, and their organization will continue to
operate these trails once the route is implemented. The Oak Ridges Trail network crosses
numerous individual properties owned both publicly and privately, and ORTA obtains legal
permission to manage and maintain the trail from individual landowners. TRCA will continue to
support ORTA to secure the necessary formal property agreements to implement the proposed
Trans Canada Trail route and maintain the existing designated trails under management
agreement.
On TRCA properties along the proposed Trans Canada Trail route, the Oak Ridges Trail System
is managed and maintained by ORTA, through an agreement with TRCA. Additionally, a trail
maintenance agreement was signed between TRCA and Green Durham Association (GDA) in
May 2018. GDA is a local volunteer organization based in Uxbridge dedicated to protecting,
preserving, and enhancing greenspace within the Regional Municipality of Durham. The
agreement allows GDA volunteers to undertake trail maintenance activities along certain
authorized trails on TRCA properties in the Regional Municipality of Durham until May 2019.
These trails include the proposed Trans Canada Trail within Walker Woods, North Walker Woods,
Secord Forest and Wildlife Area, and the Goodwood RMT.
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RATIONALE
Designating a section of the Oak Ridges Trail as part of the Trans Canada Trail network will
capitalize on the new opportunity to connect the Trans Canada Trail to the northernmost reach of
RNUP. By designating the trail along existing Oak Ridges Trail infrastructure, this alignment
minimizes new environmental disturbance and keeps costs to a minimum. Local volunteer
organizations such as ORTA and GDA have a long history of successful trail advocacy within the
Regional Municipality of Durham, including securing funding for the continued expansion and
improvement of these trails. TRCA enjoys longstanding partnerships with these local
organizations, as well as with Parks Canada, LSRCA, and TCTO. TRCA can harness this robust
partnership capacity to actively seek funding for the implementation of the proposed Trans
Canada Trail route. The Trans Canada Trail Connection - EDH to RNUP opens up new trail and
visitor experiences within the Township of Uxbridge, along the Trans Canada Trail, and within
RNUP. Providing a direct Trans Canada Trail connection to the northern end of RNUP will
encourage users to experience the recreational, educational, and natural value of the RNUP, as
well as TRCA and other publicly -owned greenspaces which frame the route. This connection will
create mutually supportive recreational linkages between RNUP and another one of Canada's
vital outdoor assets: the longest recreational trail in the world, the Trans Canada Trail.
The Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP supports Building the Living City, TRCA's
2013-2022 Strategic Plan, including the Five -Year Update to this Plan. This trail route allows
TRCA to rethink greenspace to maximize its value (Strategy #3), showcasing the beauty and
recreational opportunities presented by TRCA's greenspaces within the Township of Uxbridge
while concurrently fulfilling an important national trail gap. Also, by adopting a trail management
approach that emphasizes local trail maintenance and stewardship by community organizations
in Durham Region, the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP fosters sustainable
citizenship (Strategy #5). By establishing a route that crosses through a variety of landscapes
and incorporates interpretive elements that speak to the natural and cultural heritage of the area,
this newly co -designated trail can help tell the story of the Toronto region (Strategy #6).
TRCA Trail Strategy
The TRCA Trail Strategy provides a vision and direction for the planning, development, and
management of a complete regional trail system across TRCA's jurisdiction. Within the Greater
Toronto Region Trail Network, The Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP follows the
existing Oak Ridges Trail and a completed part of the Rouge Gateway Trail. This proposed route
connects two Destinations to each other, including the Forested Headwaters and RNUP.
The implementation of the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP supports the
implementation of the Trail Strategy, as this proposed route aligns with a number of Strategic
Objectives, Initiatives, and Actions identified within the Trail Strategy Action Plan:
• "Plan, develop and maintain existing and proposed trails within TRCA-owned and
regulated areas in a manner consistent with TRCA's The Living City Policies" (Action A of
Initiative 5. 1, Ongoing Priority)
• "Continue to pursue existing funding sources and explore future funding sources to
establish and maintain sustained investment in the Greater Toronto Region Trail Network"
(Action C of Initiative 8. 1, Ongoing Priority)
• "Study and continue to implement sustainable trail planning, design, construction and
management best practices" (Action C of Initiative 4.2, Short -Term Priority)
• "Support event programming, storytelling and educational opportunities to engage all
communities in celebration of our rich Indigenous and settler history" (Action C of Initiative
5.3, Short -Term Priority) — these opportunities overlap with the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan
• •�
• `Partner with interested municipalities, communities, tourism agencies, private
businesses and trail organizations to promote destinations. (Action A of Initiative 7.2,
Short -Term Priority)
• "Offer trail monitoring and maintenance programs to volunteers to grow our network of trail
stewards" (Action B of Initiative 6. 1, Medium -Term Priority)
FINANCIAL DETAILS
The Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP Final Report identifies a number of potential
funding sources including grants, sponsorships, municipal partners, and partnerships with local
trail volunteer organizations. Staff will actively work with TCT and TCTO, Parks Canada, LSRCA,
individual landowners, and local trail organizations to pursue funding opportunities and prioritize
implementation work for the proposed Trans Canada Trail route. The total cost to implement the
Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP is estimated at $1,777,000 over 9 years
(adjusted for inflation from 2018 $CAD cost estimates). Implementation costs located on TRCA
lands total $1,623,000 over 9 years (adjusted for inflation from 2018 $CAD cost estimates).
Please note that $913,000 of this estimate overlaps with the implementation budget for the
Goodwood RMT Trail Plan. As the management and operation of the proposed Trans Canada
Trail route will be undertaken by local trail volunteer organizations (ORTA, GDA), TRCA is not
anticipated to incur additional yearly operating costs as a result of the new trail route. A phased
implementation budget has been developed for the plan and is included within Attachment 2. All
cost estimates are preliminary and will be refined through the results of technical study, structural
review of design components, and evaluation of financial capacity. The implementation costs are
beyond the scope of the existing TRCA budgets dedicated to trails in this area. Therefore, new
funding sources are required for the implementation of this project.
Funding to implement this proposed Trans Canada Trail Connection is not currently within the
allocation for trails management within TRCA's budget from the Region of Durham. This includes
both the $913,000 that overlaps with the Goodwood RMT Trail Plan, and the remaining $864,000.
Therefore, the funding to implement the proposed Trans Canada Trail Connection will be included
on TRCA's Durham corporate long list of unmet needs for the 2020 budget cycle. While broadly
the implementation of the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP is identified as an
ongoing priority by the TRCA Trail Strategy, certain elements of the proposed Trans Canada Trail
are associated with the Trail Strategy's short-term priority actions and may be identified as focus
areas to support implementation of the Trail Strategy. These priorities for implementation will also
be influenced by emerging or incidental grants and partnership opportunities.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
The successful implementation of the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP will require
the efforts of TRCA and its partners.
Upon approval of this report, TRCA will take the following actions:
• Circulate the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP Final Report with TRCA
approval to LSRCA, who will bring the Final Report to their Board of Directors and the
Regional Municipality of Durham for endorsement (Fall 2018);
• Circulate the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP Final Report with TRCA,
LSRCA and Regional Municipality of Durham endorsements to TCT and TCTO for
approval (Fall 2018);
• Circulate the Trans Canada Trail Connection — EDH to RNUP Final Report to the
Township of Uxbridge, Parks Canada, ORTA, GDA and the TRCA Regional Watershed
Alliance for information (Fall 2018);
617
• Initiate necessary property agreements and/or acquisitions to ensure a safe trail
connection to Webb Road (Winter 2019);
• Work with Parks Canada to further the implementation of the Webb Road pedestrian
crossing (ongoing 2019);
• Support ORTA in formalizing land permissions for the Oak Ridges Trail with individual
landowners along the proposed Trans Canada Trail route (Township of Uxbridge, LSRCA,
Regional Municipality of Durham) (Winter 2019);
• Continue to work with project partners to actively seek funding necessary to implement the
trail plan as described in the phased implementation budget (see Attachment 2) (ongoing
2019).
Report prepared by: Corinna Thomassen-Darby, ext. 5625
Emails: corinna.thomassen-darby(cDtrca.on.ca
For Information contact: Corinna Thomassen-Darby, ext. 5625, Mike Bender, 416-400-2111
Emails: corinna.thomassen-darby0trca.on.ca, mike.bender(a).trca.on.ca
Date: November 30, 2018
Attachments: 2
Attachment 2 - Trans Canada Trail Connection East Duff ins Headwaters to Rouge National
Urban Park Final Report
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619
RES.#A186/18 - ROUGE RIVER WATERSHED HYDROLOGY STUDY
Approval to adopt the Rouge River Watershed Hydrology Study as
prepared by Toronto Region Conservation Authority Engineering Services
staff and Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions.
Moved by: Jennifer McKelvie
Seconded by: Jennifer Innis
THAT the Rouge River Watershed Hydrology Study (September 2018) prepared by Toronto
and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff and Wood Environment & Infrastructure
Solutions be approved;
THAT staff be directed to disseminate the final watershed results and documentation to
municipal staff and the development industry through an update to TRCA's Stormwater
Criteria;
THAT staff be directed to apply the results from the Rouge River Watershed Hydrology
Study to update floodline mapping for regulatory purposes;
AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to use the results of the Rouge River Watershed
Hydrology Study as a foundation for conducting technical hydrologic assessments of the
watershed as part of future watershed/subwatershed plans and studies.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The hydrologic model for the Rouge River watershed was previously updated in 2001 by Marshall
Macklin Monaghan using the Visual OTTHYMO computer model. Since the 2001 hydrology
update, significant changes have occurred within the watershed, including Official Plan (OP)
updates by municipalities within the watershed showing key new development communities in
Richmond Hill, Markham and Whitch urch-StouffviIle. In addition, new hydrologic information has
been collected that has been incorporated into this model, including additional flow and rainfall
data throughout the Rouge River watershed. As such, the hydrology model has been updated to
reflect the proposed land use changes and improved information.
RATIONALE
As over 17 years have passed since the previous update to the Rouge River watershed hydrology
model, an updated hydrology model is needed to reflect new meteorological information, new
development and land use in the watershed, and updated Official Plans in order to guide
development. The results of the updated Rouge River watershed hydrology model will be used to
update floodline mapping and flood remedial plans. In addition, flood control criteria were
developed as part of the Rouge River Watershed Hydrology Study and will be incorporated into
TRCA and municipal stormwater management criteria for new development. These flood control
criteria are important in achieving TRCA's goal of mitigating and reducing the risk to life and
property caused by flooding.
Finally, this report represents the first step in assisting our municipal partners and stakeholders
through their planning process in response to the 2017 Provincial Plans, including the Growth
Plan, Greenbelt Plan, and Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. The Rouge River Watershed
Hydrology Study and subsequent floodplain mapping updates will provide a foundation for future
watershed plans and studies that support our partner municipalities with their ongoing watershed
planning and Official Plan conformity process, including the Municipal Comprehensive Reviews
(MCR).
620
MODEL DEVELOPMENT
The Rouge River Watershed Hydrology Study Update was awarded to Wood Environment &
Infrastructure Solutions (Wood) to provide consulting services. Based on the needs of the
watershed model and the layout of the Rouge River Watershed, TRCA and Wood selected the
PCSWMM computer model for use in this study. PCSWMM, or Personal Computer Stormwater
Management Model, is a computer model used to calculate the hydrologic characteristics of a
watershed or subwatersheds, including peak flow rates and runoff volume. The PCSWMM model
represents state-of-the-art computer modelling for hydrologic assessments, capable of long-term
continuous simulation for erosion assessment or instantaneous design -storm assessments for
specific event calculation. Further, the foundation of the computer model, EPA SWMM, is fully
compatible with GIS software and is fully supported by the US EPA, allowing for a program that is
rigorously and robustly supported. Finally, the model is also supported by the MNRF for
establishing peak flow rates for Regulatory Floodline Mapping.
Over 840 catchment areas were delineated based on an average catchment size of
approximately 40 ha in an effort to more closely reflect municipal Official Plans, with boundaries
confirmed by TRCA GIS staff. Once the catchment areas were delineated, the existing condition
parameters, including land use and soils information, were provided by TRCA GIS staff, with the
land use data based on 2009 high resolution aerial photographs. A total of 1336 hydraulic
elements have been incorporated into the PCSWMM model to represent the open watercourses,
and 293 hydraulic elements have been incorporated into the model to represent the hydraulic
structures. Finally, stormwater management facilities were incorporated based on catchment
area.
The existing conditions model was then calibrated to match as closely as possible the TRCA
instream flow information for actual storm events. The calibration process assists in producing a
reliable and representative hydrologic model for a watershed. The process includes adjusting
specific parameters within acceptable tolerances in order for the model to match the existing
instream responses as best as possible. Calibration was conducted in order to:
• Match the volume of runoff generated by the land;
• Match the timing of the peak runoff within the system; and
• Match the peak flows within the watercourses.
After the calibration was conducted based on a selection of actual storm events, the calibrated
model was validated by comparing the results against a different set of actual storm events,
confirming that the results were within an acceptable range.
With the model calibrated and validated, peak flow values were generated to represent current
development conditions for the two-year through 100 -year design storms, the 350 -year design
storm, and Regional Storm event, based on Hurricane Hazel. Future land use peak flows were
then generated, with the future land use information gathered from municipal Official Plans.
Land use planning information was also reviewed by TRCA senior planning staff, and was
confirmed to be accurate to the Official Plan information and updates.
Finally, the model was peer reviewed by WSP and RBWater, companies with extensive water
resources engineering history in the fields of hydrology, hydraulics and stormwater management.
Comments provided by the peer reviewer were addressed, and WSP and RBWater signed off on
the updated model.
RESULTS
The Rouge River Watershed Hydrology Study Update ultimately produces peak flow rates for the
2 -year through 100 -year design storms and the Regional Storm event for existing conditions of
621
the watershed and future build -out conditions as outlined in municipal Official Plans. Table 1 in
Attachment 1 summarizes the percent difference in peak flow rates associated with the 100 -year
design storm from the PCSWMM model compared to the 2001 Rouge River Watershed
Hydrology Update at major hydrologic reference points. The majority of the flow node locations
are showing consistently higher values for the 2018 study during Official Plan build out compared
to the 2001 study. This is not unexpected; as urban expansion associated with updated Official
Plans naturally leads to increases in peak flows within the respective subwatersheds. Further, this
suggests that stormwater management controls are required in order to effectively control the
impacts of development on peak flow rates up to and including the 100 -year storm events. As part
of this study, flood control criteria were developed and applied to the model to reduce the impacts
of the development. Table 2 in Attachment 1 demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed
stormwater management criteria for peak flow rates associated with the 100 -year design storm at
specific locations during future conditions. The results show that, on average, the post
development peak flows associated with the 100 -year design storm are controlled to
approximately 11 % below the existing peak flow rates. This result suggests that the established
flood control criteria are effective in reducing flood risk as a result of future development.
The updated Rouge River Watershed Hydrology model also resulted in changes to peak flows
associated with the Regional Storm. As shown in Table 3 in Attachment 1, portions of the Little
Rouge and Upper Rouge subwatersheds are showing decreases in peak flow rates, as
advancements in modeling data collected, such as soils information, instream flow data and
rainfall data, have allowed TRCA to better understand the response of the watershed to rain
events. However, peak flow rates associated with the Regional Storm at the mouth of the Rouge
River (Rouge Marshes @ Kingston Rd) have increased by approximately 15% due to the
development occurring in upstream section of the watershed. In addition, Regional Storm peak
flow rates at flow node locations within subwatersheds where intensive urbanization has occurred
or is proposed to occur, including sections of Eckardt Creek, Upper Rouge and Robinson Creek
are showing an increase of approximately 16.3%, 13.3% and 31.4 %, respectively, compared to
the 2001 study. In many of these areas, updates to the municipal Official Plans result in increased
developable land, and therefore have an impact on peak flow rates. In order to reduce the risk of
flooding impacts during a Regional Storm event, the study team prepared stormwater
management targets for the Regional Storm. As shown in Table 4 in Attachment 1, the proposed
stormwater management targets for the Regional Storm will reduce peak flow rates at most every
location, resulting in an average decrease of approximately 1.2% in the peak flow rates
associated with the Regional Storm. Moving forward, TRCA will use these targets to work with our
Municipal partners and the development industry on developing solutions using a risk based
approach that could include a number of options, including but not limited to:
• Applying the targets developed in storage facilities;
• Further investigating downstream impacts to determine appropriate stormwater
management measures;
• Investigating off-site remedial works to mitigate flood risk, such as crossing infrastructure
improvements; or
• A combination of the above.
It should be noted that the reduction in peak flow rates and associated risk reduction associated
with Regional Storm controls will not be used in assessing the Regulatory floodlines in the Rouge
River Watershed as mandated by the MNRF. Therefore, the values provided in Table 3 of
Attachment 1 will continue to be used for establishing Regulatory floodlines.
The information provided in Tables 1, 2, 3, and 4 also show that several key areas within the
watershed, including proposed new development lands, are showing significant changes in peak
flow rates, and therefore may result in changes to the floodplain. In order to accurately reflect the
622
changes determined as part of this hydrology study, TRCA staff will need to conduct floodplain
mapping updates to large areas of the Rouge River watershed. This will take place base in 2019
utilizing funding from the National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP).
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Financial contributions for the Rouge River Hydrology Study were provided through the York
Region Stormwater Management Fund account 107-15 at a cost of approximately $214,250
which included both staffing and consultant expenditures.
RESOLUTIONS
TRCA staff will adopt the Rouge River Watershed Hydrology Study, using this model for all future
studies and hydrologic analysis, including updating floodline mapping, flood remedial plans,
stormwater management criteria, and watershed studies. In addition, TRCA staff will begin to
disseminate the final modeling results and documentation to municipal staff and the development
industry through an update to TRCA's Stormwater Criteria through the winter of 2018 and into the
spring of 2019. Further, TRCA staff will use the updated peak flow rates calculated as part of the
update for floodline mapping exercises moving forward, and will provide updated floodline
mapping for the entire Rouge River Watershed in 2019 based on the NDMP funding. Further,
TRCA staff will use the flood control criteria to inform our development planning, environmental
assessment review and regulatory responsibilities for development within the Rouge River
Watershed. Finally, the Rouge River Watershed Hydrology Study will provide the hydrologic
foundation for future watershed plans and studies and will be made available to our partner
municipalities to assist with conforming to the 2017 Provincial Plans.
Report prepared by: Dan Hippie, extension 5336, and Sameer Dhalla, extension 5350
Emails: dhippleC&trca.on.ca, sdhalla(&trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Dan Hippie, extension 5336
Emails: dhipple(a)trca.on.ca
Date: November 30, 2018
Attachments: 1
623
Attachment 1
Table 1- Summary of Rouge River Peak Flow Rates at Specific Subwatersheds - 100 -year
Design Storm
Flow Node Location
2001
Future OP
Peak Flows
cros)
2018
Current
Peak Flows
(cros)
2018
Future OP
Peak Flows
(cms)
% Change,
2001 to
2018
Future OPs
Little Rouge River Subwatershed
Little Roue @ Major
85.4
55.8
62.4
-27%
Little Roue @ HWY 7
57.9
53.5
59.0
2%
Little Roue @ Kingston Rd
57.7
70.2
86.5
50%
Upper Rouge River
Subwatershed
Upper Rouge River Sub @ Major
Mackenzie
22.9
77.9
101.1
341%
Berczy Creek Subwatershed
Woodbine Ave
46.6
44.4
50.2
8%
Bruce Creek Subwatershed
fl 16th Ave close to Kennedy Rd
47.0 34.0
34.5
-27%
Beaver Creek Subwatershed
N of 407
38.2
69.3
74.4
95%
Eckardt Creek Subwatershed
Eckardt Creek Sub @ Main Street
Unionville
75.1
100.6
106.2
41%
Eckardt Creek Sub @ Kennedy Rd
162.8
151.6
162.3
0%
Eckardt Creek Sub @ HWY 7
165.4
149.7
160.1
-3%
Rouge River Subwatershed
Rouge River Sub @ N of 407
162.4
152.4
163.9
1%
Rouge River Sub @ Steeles Ave E
160.9
155.1
167.3
4%
Rouge River Sub @ Kingston Rd
151.6
158.9
172.0
13%
Rouge Marshes
Rouge Marshes @ Kingston Rd
209.3
209.0
226.1
8%
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Table 2 — Percent Difference in Future Conditions Uncontrolled and Controlled Peak Flows
at Specific Locations — 100 -year Design Storm
Flow Node Location
2018 Future OP
Uncontrolled
Peak Flows
(cros)
2018 Future OP
Controlled Peak
Flows (cros)
based on Flood
Control Criteria
% Change,
Controlled to
Uncontrolled 2018
Future OP Peak
Flows
Little Rouge River Subwatershed
Little Roue @ Major
62.4
54.8
-12%
Little Roue @ HWY 7
59.0
52.5
-11%
Little Roue @ Kingston Rd
86.5
70.5
-18%
Upper Rouge River
Subwatershed
Upper Rouge River Sub @ Major
Mackenzie
101.1
96.3
5%
Berczy Creek Subwatershed
Woodbine Ave
50.2
36.7
-27%
Bruce Creek Subwatershed
16th Ave close to Kennedy Rd
34.5
34.5
0%
Beaver Creek Subwatershed
@ N of 407
74.4
67.6
-9%
Eckardt Creek Subwatershed
Eckardt Creek Sub @ Main Street
Unionville
106.2
100.2
-6%
Eckardt Creek Sub @ Kennedy Rd
162.3
146.7
-10%
Eckardt Creek Sub @ HWY 7
160.1
143.9
-10%
Rouge River Subwatershed
Rouge River Sub @ N of 407
163.9
146.6
-11%
Rouge River Sub @ Steeles Ave E
167.3
149.1
-11%
Rouge River Sub @ Kingston Rd
172.0
153.3
-11%
Rouge Marshes
Rouge Marshes @ Kingston Rd
226.1
203.2
-10%
625
Table 3 - Summary of Rouge River Peak Flow Rates at Specific Subwatersheds - Regional
Storm
626
2001 Future
2018 Current
2018 Future
% Change,
Flow Node Location
OP Peak
Peak Flows
OP Peak
2001 to
Flows (cros)
(cros)
Flows(cros)
2018
Future OPs
Little Rouge River
Subwatershed
Little Rouge Subwatershed @
388.7
214.8
224.9
-42.1%
Major Mackenzie Dr
Little Roue @ HWY 7
291.3
239.1
247.7
-15.0%
Little Roue @ Kin Ston Rd
262.0
283.7
281.1
7.3%
Upper Rouge River
Subwatershed
Upper Rouge River Sub @
229.3
252.6
259.7
13.3%
Major Mackenzie Dr
Berczy Creek
Subwatershed
Woodbine Ave
176.7
153.3
177.9 0.7%
Bruce Creek Subwatershed
@ 16th Ave close to Kennedy
201.6
145.6
143.8
28.7%
Rd
Beaver Creek
Subwatershed
N of 407
106.0
107.8
108.3
2.2%
Eckardt Creek
Subwatershed
Eckardt Creek Sub @ Main
266.2
309.2
309.5
16.3%
Street Unionville
Eckardt Creek Sub @
643.0
565.8
564.7
-12.2%
Kennedy Rd
Eckardt Creek Sub @ HWY 7
658.4
659.1
566.1
-14.0%
Rouge River Subwatershed
Rouge River Sub @ N of 407
645.2
618.6
623.5
-3.4%
Rouge River Sub @ Steeles
634.9
641.1
654.3
3.1%
Ave E
Rouge River Sub @ Kingston
517.5
670.7
680.1
31.4%
Rd
Rouge Marshes
Rouge Marshes @ Kingston
761.3
871.5
878.4
15.4%
Rd
626
Table 4 - Percent Difference in Future Conditions Uncontrolled and Controlled Peak Flows
at Specific Locations - Regional Storm
627
2018 Future
2018 Future
% Change,
2018 Current
OP
OP
2018 Future
Flow Node Location
Peak Flows
Uncontrolled
Controlled
controlled to
(cros)
Peak Flows
Peak Flows
2018 Future
cros)
(cros)
uncontrolled
Little Rouge River
Subwatershed
Little Rouge Subwatershed @
214.8
224.9
214.81.
-4.5%
Major Mackenzie Dr
Little Roue @ HWY 7
239.1
247.7
239.11
-3.5%
Little Roue @ Kingston Rd
283.7
281.1
283.61
0.9%
Upper Rouge River
Subwatershed
Upper Rouge River Sub @
252.6
259.7
250.91
3.4%
Major Mackenzie Dr
Berczy Creek
Subwatershed
Upper Rouge River Sub @
153.3
177.9
153.21
-13.90/6
16th Ave close to Warden Ave
Bruce Creek Subwatershed
Upper Rouge River Sub @
145.6
143.8
145.6
1.3%
16th Ave close to Kennedy Rd
Beaver Creek
Subwatershed
Upper Rouge River Sub @ N
107.8
108.3
107.8
0.5%
of 407
Eckardt Creek
Subwatershed
Eckardt Creek Sub @ Main
309.2
309.5
308.91
-0.2%
Street Unionville
Eckardt Creek Sub @
565.8
564.7
563.91
-0.1%
Kennedy Rd
Eckardt Creek Sub @ HWY 7
659.1
566.1
636.21
12.4%
Rouge River Subwatershed
Rouge River Sub @ N of 407
618.6
623.5
617.71
-0.9%
Rouge River Sub @ Steeles
641.1
654.3
640.51.
-2.1%
Ave E
Rouge River Sub @ Kingston
670.7
680.1
670.21
-1.5%
Rd
Rouge Marshes
Rouge Marshes @ Kingston
871.5
878.4
870.91
0.9%
Rd
627
RES.#A187/18 - THE MEADOWAY —VISUALIZATION TOOLKIT
Award of Contract #10009458. Award of contract RFP#10009458 for
professional landscape architecture and design services to lead the
development of a visualization toolkit that will guide the overall design
direction and philosophy for The Meadoway.
Moved by: Maria Kelleher
Seconded by: Linda Pabst
WHEREAS following a competitive process, multiple bids have been received and the
evaluation committee consisting of four TRCA staff and two W. Garfield Weston
representatives are unable to meet and recommend a preferred proponent prior to the
November 2018 TRCA Board of Directors Meeting;
AND WHEREAS there is no scheduled December 2018 TRCA Board of Directors Meeting,
and it is deemed desirable by TRCA Staff and project partners, including the W. Garfield
Weston Foundation, to maintain the proposed schedule that includes awarding this work
in early December 2018;
THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Chief Executive Officer be authorized to
award the contract associated with RFP#10009458 for Professional Landscape
Architecture and Design Services, in support of The Meadoway, recognizing that this
delegation of approval to award requires Board of Directors approval as per Toronto and
Region Conservation Authority's (TRCA) Purchasing Policy;
THAT should staff be unable to negotiate a mutually acceptable agreement with the
selected proponent, staff be authorized to enter into contract negotiations with the next
highest ranked proponent;
THAT staff be authorized and directed to take all necessary actions to implement the
foregoing, including the signing of documents;
AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the next available Board of Directors Meeting
with an information item regarding the award of contract for this assignment.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
Led by Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) in partnership with the Toronto and
Region Conservation Foundation (TRCF), City of Toronto, Hydro One, and The W. Garfield
Weston Foundation, The Meadoway Project will transform 16 kilometres of hydro corridor in
Scarborough into one of the largest urban linear greenspaces in Canada.
On April 11, 2018, Mayor John Tory along with the Directors of The W. Garfield Weston
Foundation, and representatives from TRCA and TRCF jointly announced The Meadoway at a
ceremony in Scarborough. As part of this announcement, The W. Garfield Weston Foundation
pledged up to $25 million in support of the project, with a firm commitment of $10 million available
immediately to support Phase 1 of the project. The City of Toronto committed $6.3 million to
realize the shared vision for The Meadoway by supporting the multi -use trail infrastructure, and to
support the City's ongoing operations and maintenance activities in the hydro corridor.
At Authority Meeting #7/18, held on September 28, 2018, an update on The Meadoway and
recommendation to advance implementation of key priorities was approved per Resolution
#A143/18, in part, as follows:
WHEREAS Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and The Living City
Foundation (LCF) have committed to revitalize a 16 linear kilometre, 200 hectare
transmission corridor into The Meadoway, which will provide a vital east -west linkage
between downtown Toronto and Rouge National Urban Park and become one of the
largest linear greenspaces in Canada, with connected multiuse trail, restored meadow
habitat and other enhancements that will be determined in consultation with the
community and our partners;
WHEREAS The W Garfield Weston Foundation has made a $10 million of the $25 million
pledge available immediately to TRCA to implement Phase 1 of the project;
THEREFORE, LET /T BE RESOLVED THAT with appropriate Board Authority approvals
including purchasing approvals, authorized TRCA and LCF officials be directed to take all
necessary actions regarding retaining consulting services, the hiring of contract staff
including project managers, and the signing and execution of any service agreements
within the limit of the confirmed approved funding agreement for Phase 1.
The Meadoway builds on the success of the Gatineau Hydro Corridor Revitalization Project
(GHCR), which has resulted in the creation of 40 hectares of native meadow habitat by TRCA to
date, as well as the construction of —10 km of multi -use trail. Eventually encompassing over 200
hectares and spanning 16 linear kilometres, The Meadoway will incorporate all of the work
completed as part of GHCR and establish a full multi -use trail connection between the East Don
Trail gateway and the Rouge National Urban Park. A Schedule C Municipal Class Environmental
Assessment (Class EA) is currently being undertaken to inform planning and design of potential
trail alignments for sections of multi -use trail that have not been completed or approved. At
Authority Meeting #7/18, TRCA staff received authorization to award Contract #10008912 to
Dillon Consulting Limited for professional planning and engineering consulting in support of the
Class EA and detailed design.
TRCA has also in consultation with the W. Garfield Weston Foundation and the TRCF determined
the need to retain a consultant to provide professional landscape architecture and design services
to help refine and illustrate the overall vision and design philosophy of The Meadoway.
RATIONALE
RFP#10009458 was released via Biddingo on October 23, 2018 with a total of 12 firms submitting
proposals in advance of the submission deadline on November 9, 2018 (Table 1).
629
Table 1. List of Consultants who submitted proposals (In no particular order)
Firms
.... 02. Planning & Design
Public Work
Moriyama and Teshima Planners Ltd.
I9]/_1:1
Perkins and Will
Landlnc
The criteria being used to evaluate the submissions and to select the successful consultant
include the following:
• Understanding of project and scope of work;
• Experience and project portfolio, including quantity and relatedness of past projects,
awards and/or recognition, and overall layout, design, and creativity of portfolio;
• Expertise of staff and appropriate allocation of resources;
• Approach and methodology of work plan, including innovative ideas, identification of
project limitations, and proposed solutions;
• Clear and well thought out schedule that meets or exceeds the project timeline; and
• Detailed cost breakdown, including an itemized cost of additional works anticipated
beyond the approve budget.
Members of the evaluation committee consist of staff from TRCA and The W. Garfield Weston
Foundation. The committee is holding a consensus meeting on November 2911, 2018. Upon
request of the project funder (The W. Garfield Weston Foundation), following this meeting the
preferred consultant will be asked to attend an in-person meeting with the committee during the
week of December 3, 2018 to provide an opportunity to seek clarification of any questions that
evaluation committee may have on the proposal. There is no December 2019 Board of Directors
meeting where this matter could be brought forward for consideration. This 5 -week period of time
is valuable for aligning the work of this proponent with other consultants and TRCA and
stakeholders in the project. As a result, in order to maintain the desired schedule for this project
staff are putting forward this recommended option for Board of Directors consideration.
FINANCIAL DETAILS
The Meadoway project has a total proposed budget of $85 million. Nearly 40% of the budget has
been pledged to date and $10 million is currently available in account 260-01. Primary
deliverables to be covered by the initial $10 million in funding include: the development of the
visualization toolkit; planning and completion of the Class EA and detailed design; meadow
habitat preparation, maintenance, and mowing; a 401 bridge feasibility study; and development
and implementation of community engagement and public relations strategies.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
The development of the Visualization Toolkit is expected to be a collaborative process led by the
selected consultant and involving TRCA, TRCF, The W. Garfield Weston Foundation, City of
Toronto, Hydro One, and the community. The Visualization Toolkit will be informed by the
objectives of The Meadoway project, existing conditions, and the conceptual design of the
630
multi -use trail and restored meadow as it evolves through the EA process. It will also consider a
case analysis of exemplary greenspace revitalization projects, with a focus on linear
greenspaces, iconic gateway and bridge features, community connections, road crossings, and
public realm features. The end result will include graphics that will convey the overall project
vision that can be used in both print and electronic reproduction for marketing and communication
purposes.
Upon selection of the consultant and successful negotiation of the contract associated with
RFP#10009458 staff will report back to the Board of Directors.
Report prepared by: Corey Wells, extension 5233
Emails: cwells(cDtrca.on.ca
For Information contact: Lisa Turnbull, extension 5645
Emai ls: Iturn bull(a-trca.on.ca
Date: November 28, 2018
631
RES.#A188/18 - GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2016-2020
Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River Watershed
21 and 24 Disan Court, City of Toronto (CFN 60349). Acquisition of
property located at 21 and 24 Disan Court, in the City of Toronto, under
the "Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2016-2020," Flood Plain and
Conservation Component, Humber River watershed.
(Executive Res. #8105/18)
Moved by: Jack Ballinger
Seconded by: Maria Kelleher
THAT 0.0164 hectares (0.0405 acres), more or less, of vacant land, said land being Part of
Lot 13, Plan M1538 and restrictive covenants of 0.0047 hectares (0.0116 acres), said land
being Part of Lot 13, Plan M1538, and being the rear portion of a property municipally
known as 21 Disan Court, in the City of Toronto, be purchased from Caterina Ferlisi;
THAT 0.0285 hectares (0.0704 acres), more or less, of vacant land, said land being Part of
Lot 12, Plan M1538, and restrictive convenants of 0.0114 hectares (0.0282 acres), said
land being Part of Lot 12, Plan M1538 and being the rear portion of a property municipally
known as 24 Disan Court, in the City of Toronto, be purchased from Umberto Fortunato
and Antonietta Fortunato;
THAT the purchase price for each of the parcels of land and restrictive convenants be
$2.00 in addition to each vendor's reasonable legal costs, and survey costs if required;
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) receive conveyance of the
lands at free from encumbrance, subject to existing service easements;
THAT the firm Gowling WLG, be instructed to complete the transaction at the earliest
possible date and all reasonable expenses incurred incidental to the closing for land
transfer tax, legal costs, and disbursements are to be paid by TRCA;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the necessary action
to finalize the transaction, including obtaining any necessary approvals and the signing
and execution of documents.
CARRIED
RES.#A189/18 - GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2016-2020
Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Rouge River Watershed
Sedgewick Property Inc. (CFN 60323). Acquisition of property located
west of Leslie Street and south of Bethesda Sideroad, in the Town of
Richmond Hill, Regional Municipality of York, under the "Greenlands
Acquisition Project for 2016-2020," Flood Plain and Conservation
Component, Rouge River watershed.
(Executive Res. #8106/18)
Moved by: Jack Ballinger
Seconded by: Maria Kelleher
632
THAT 2.12 hectares (5.25 acres), more or less, of vacant land, located west of Leslie
Street and south of Bethesda Sideroad, said land being Part of Lot 3, Concession 2
designated as Block 417 and Block 418 on draft Municipal Plan created April 19, 2018 by
Holding Jones Vanderveen Inc. under job 01-1307 — MPLAN2, in the Town of Richmond
Hill, Regional Municipality of York, be purchased from Sedgewick Property Inc.;
THAT the purchase price be $2.00;
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) receive conveyance of the
land free from encumbrance, subject to existing service easements;
THAT the firm Gowling WLG, be instructed to complete the transaction at the earliest
possible date. All reasonable expenses incurred incidental to the closing for land
transfer tax, legal costs, and disbursements are to be paid by TRCA;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the necessary action
to finalize the transaction, including obtaining any necessary approvals and the signing
and execution of documents.
CARRIED
RES.#A190/18 - MEETING SCHEDULE 2019-2020
Approval of schedule of Board of Directors and Committee meetings for
the period beginning January 25, 2019 and ending February 21, 2020.
(Executive Res.#8107/18)
Moved by: Jack Ballinger
Seconded by: Maria Kelleher
THAT Meeting Schedule 2019-2020 as outlined in Attachment 1 be approved;
THAT the Executive Committee be delegated the powers of the Board of Directors during
the month of August, 2019, as defined in Executive Committee Terms of Reference
Section 4.2 of the Board of Directors Administrative By-law;
AND FURTHER THAT the Clerk's Office distribute this schedule at the earliest
opportunity to Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's (TRCA) watershed
municipalities and the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.
CARRIED
MOTION TO REOPEN
RES.#A191/18 - MEETING SCHEDULE 2019-2020
Moved by: Paula Fletcher
Seconded by: Linda Pabst
THAT item 10.1.3, Meeting Schedule 2019-2020, carried as RES.#190/18, be reopened.
CARRIED
633
AMENDMENT
RES.#A192/18
Moved by: Jennifer Innis
Seconded by: Chris Fonseca
THAT the following be inserted after the first paragraph of the main motion:
THAT Meeting Schedule 2019-2020 be amended such that the January 3, 2020 Board of
Directors meeting be changed to January 10, 2020;
THAT Meeting Schedule 2019-2020 be amended such that the January 10, 2020 Executive
Committee meeting be changed to January 17, 2020;
THE AMENDMENT WAS
THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS
CARRIED
CARRIED
THE RESULTANT MOTION READS AS FOLLOWS:
THAT Meeting Schedule 2019-2020, as outlined in Attachment 1, be approved;
THAT Meeting Schedule 2019-2020 be amended such that the January 3, 2020 Board of
Directors meeting be changed to January 10, 2020;
THAT Meeting Schedule 2019-2020 be amended such that the January 10, 2020 Executive
Committee meeting be changed to January 17, 2020;
THAT the Executive Committee be delegated the powers of the Board of Directors during
the month of August, 2019, as defined in Executive Committee Terms of Reference
Section 4.2 of the Board of Directors Administrative By-law;
AND FURTHER THAT the Clerk's Office distribute this schedule at the earliest
opportunity to Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's (TRCA) watershed
municipalities and the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.
634
Attachment 1: Meeting schedule as amended at the November 30, 2018 Board of Directors meeting
TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY 2019-2020 SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Su M Tu W Th F Sa
Su
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W
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ANNUAL-BoD
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#1/19
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#3/19
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Su
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BoD #10119
Su M Tu W
TRCA meeting schedule also available online on TRCA's Board Meetingssvace.
14 15
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ANNUAL BoD 22
#1120
28 29
j
Board of Directors
= Executive Committee
F
1
8
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a
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All meetings will be held at TRCA's Head Office at 101 Exchange Ave.,
Vaughan at 9:30 a.m., unless otherwise noted on the agenda.
❑Holidays Statutory March Break (for information, as scheduled by the Ministry of Education; not a holiday)
635
January
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TRCA meeting schedule also available online on TRCA's Board Meetingssvace.
14 15
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ANNUAL BoD 22
#1120
28 29
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= Executive Committee
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1
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a
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All meetings will be held at TRCA's Head Office at 101 Exchange Ave.,
Vaughan at 9:30 a.m., unless otherwise noted on the agenda.
❑Holidays Statutory March Break (for information, as scheduled by the Ministry of Education; not a holiday)
635
Section III — Items for the Information of the Board
RES.#A193/18 - TRCA RESPONSE TO ONTARIO'S CLIMATE CHANGE PLAN
CONSULTATION
To provide TRCA Board of Directors a summary of staff comments on
Ontario's Climate Change Plan Consultation, as released by the Province
of Ontario and due on November 16, 2018.
Moved by: Glenn De Baeremaeker
Seconded by: Jack Heath
IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT the staff report, highlighting TRCA staff comments on
Ontario's Made -in -Ontario Climate Change Plan, be received.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
On October 24, 2018, the Province of Ontario released a consultation process to obtain
comments in advance of their release of a climate change plan later this fall. The plan proposed
by the Province of Ontario is expected to include several areas of focus, specifically:
1. Creating an understanding of the effects that climate change is having on our households,
businesses, communities and public infrastructure to better prepare and strengthen our
resiliency;
2. Ensuring polluters are held accountable and creating dedicated measures that will
efficiently reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
3. Improving Ontario's business climate by unlocking the power of the private sector to
finance and drive innovative climate solutions. This will include an emissions -reduction
fund to invest in technology-based and other solutions to reduce emissions in Ontario.
4. Finding a balanced solution that puts people first, makes life more affordable for families,
and takes Ontario's role in fighting climate change seriously.
TRCA staff have compiled and provided comments in response to this consultation process prior
to the closing date of November 16, 2018.
SUMMARY OF TRCA COMMENTS
Creating an Understanding of Climate Change Effects on Households, Business,
Communities and Public Infrastructure to Strengthen Resiliency
Climate Information Translation Service is needed - While more climate information is needed
in some areas, we do have a significant amount of historical data and future climate projections
already available through a range of government and academic sources to help inform current
decision-making. However, there is insufficient capacity, guidance and support on how to best
use climate data to make evidence -based decisions in the public and private sectors. In order to
help households, businesses, and communities better prepare for future climate and strengthen
resilience, there is a particular need to build knowledge and capacity of how to use climate data in
the broader public sector (eg. municipalities, CAs, transit agencies, energy utilities Infrastructure
Ontario) in asset management and capital planning for critical infrastructure systems (water,
energy, transportation, etc.), as well as in land use and watershed planning. The TRCA, acting
as host of the Ontario Climate Consortium, is playing such a role with public sector partners
connecting them with leading climate research expertise in universities across the province to
transform climate data into formats that support decision-making, such as vulnerability and risk
assessments. We would be pleased to work with your ministry team to highlight this collaborative
work and to further advance this work as part of this Plan.
• e
Need for Investment in Local Flood Management and Flood Mitigation- TRCA, working with
our municipal partners also plays a critical role in flood plain mapping and management. There is
a strong economic rationale for increased public investment into Conservation Authority flood
management programs, as was articulated in Conservation Ontario's 2013 business case which
identified updated floodplain mapping, investments in under resourced flood management
operations and aging infrastructure as priority areas for funding. TRCA has been able to update
its flood modeling and mapping capabilities using state of the art techniques capable of assessing
the impacts of climate change, thanks to collaborative support from the Federal and Provincial
governments through the National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP). Given the success of the
NDMP program to date, TRCA highly recommends that the Government of Ontario work
collaboratively with the Federal Government to renew it beyond intake 5. Furthermore, as part of
your Plan, additional guidance from the Province through an update to the MNRF Technical
Guide, River and Stream Systems: Flooding Hazard Limit could include further guidance and a
consistent approach to incorporating measures to address the impacts of climate change.
Need for more refined scale of local watershed baseline data via expansion of local
monitoring TRCA supports efforts to develop a better understanding of the impacts of climate
change, particularly as it relates to flooding and drought which are two of the most significant
impacts on ecosystems, households, businesses, communities and public infrastructure in our
jurisdiction. To achieve a better understanding of impacts we suggest that the province as part of
the Plan, support the expansion of local monitoring and baseline data capacity related to both
precipitation and stream gauging stations to build the evidence base to support adaptation
investments.
Resilient Infrastructure Capital Funding and Opportunities for continued Fed/Prov
cooperation — TRCA is undertaking heavy infrastructure resiliency work including the
construction of flood protection landforms, coastal shorelines, and restored river corridors. These
projects often facilitate redevelopments and help make our communities more resilient to the
impacts of climate change. We would like to discuss how to fund many EA approved projects
where detailed design and construction dollars from senior levels of government could ensure
more resilient communities as part of this Plan. In many cases the opportunity for TRCA to lever
private investment and industry partnerships is possible if government funding or land is made
available (e.g., Black Creek Renewal in Vaughan, Brampton Riverwalk, etc.). In addition to the
NDMP projects, the TRCA would like to emphasize the importance of continuing efforts to
leverage the Federal Government's $2 billion Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF)
which is aimed at strengthening the resilience of Canadian communities through investments in
large-scale infrastructure projects, including natural/green infrastructure projects, enabling them
to better manage the risk associated with current and future natural hazards, such as floods,
wildfires and droughts. The TRCA would encourage the Government of Ontario to continue to
work with the Federal Government to ensure the eligibility of Ontario -based applicants for DMAF
funding and to use TRCA as a vehicle to deliver such infrastructure projects for the Province and
municipal partners as part of this Plan.
Source Water protection is a priority- Conservation authorities have been integral partners in
the implementation of the Drinking Water Source Protection Program and the Clean Water Act,
2006, the legislation that enables the protection of sources of drinking water. The quality and
amount of drinking water available to municipal water supplies are threatened by warming
temperatures, drought, stormwater runoff, and more frequent flooding. Relying just on water
treatment facilities to ensure safe drinking water is costly. We recommend that you continue to
support efforts to protect water sources and prevent overuse and contamination as a first step in
partnership with water treatment approaches.
637
Public engagement and awareness building - Public engagement is needed to help
individuals, businesses and other organizations understand how climate change will impact them,
and how they can become more prepared. Engagement tactics will need to take many forms to
reach key audiences, including via social media, and the use of infographics that make
complicated information easier to understand. TRCA is a leader in community engagement in
the GTA, and has made significant advances to incorporate information about projected climate
impacts into its programming. With over 3.5 million people living within our watersheds, we would
welcome opportunities to collaborate with the Province to increase awareness of climate risk, and
mitigation opportunities through proactive investments in engagement via TRCA as part of your
Plan in support of provincial climate change plan measures.
2. Ensuring Polluters are Held Accountable and Creating Measures to Reduce
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Ecosystem -based carbon sequestration - In addition to GHG emissions reductions, the
Government of Ontario could also explore ways to encourage increased carbon sequestration in
Ontario forests, wetlands and other natural systems. Land based carbon sequestration is an
approach that can complement GHG emissions reduction approaches, while also providing land
conservation benefits and increased access to nature for residents of Ontario.
As one of the largest landholders in the GTA (15,000 hectares), the TRCA and other CA's are well
placed to support the province with a comprehensive approach and a program to increase carbon
sequestration in ecosystems, across the province. We would encourage the province to support
efforts to better understand the carbon sequestration potential of Ontario's natural systems,
particularly those in highly urbanized areas where conservation and enhancement can provide a
multitude of co -benefits for public health. We are cautiously supportive of efforts to develop
carbon offset market mechanisms to incentivize ecosystem based carbon sequestration, and
would welcome the opportunity to work with MECP staff on program design considerations to
ensure high quality offsets are generated as part of your Plan.
Enhanced data collection and reporting measures, and engagement to identify reduction
opportunities - Collecting good data on GHG emissions across all sectors is a necessary first
step towards ensuring polluters are held accountable. There are already mechanisms in place to
collect GHG data from large emitters, as well as from broader public sector organizations.
Furthermore, regulations for large buildings (>50,000 sq ft) are coming into effect over the coming
years. We recommend that these steps be maintained as part of your Plan.
Complementing data collection and reporting, there is a need for engagement efforts to help
building and facility managers understand their energy and GHG footprint, as well as
opportunities to make reductions through changes to building operations as well as capital
upgrades. TRCA runs a suite of programs under its Partners in Project Green (PPG), and
Community Transformation Program that do just that across a wide range of sectors, including
industry, hospitals, municipal buildings, and schools. We would welcome the opportunity to
share with the Ministry our track -record of success in this area to demonstrate the potential of
scaling up training and education in the building sector as part of the development and
implementation of your Plan.
3. Improving Ontario's Business Climate by Unlocking Private Sector Finance to
Drive Innovative Climate Solutions
Many proven technologies exist today that can be deployed to reduce GHG emissions, however a
wide range of barriers impede widespread adoption and scaling. Through partnerships and
collaboration of private sector organizations to share knowledge, resources, best practices, and
work on collective impact projects, many of these barriers can be overcome. TRCA is actively
involved in efforts to raise awareness of new technologies and to promote adoption. For
example, TRCA's Partners in Project Green (PPG) program has established close relationships
with IC&I sector organizations and is actively working with them to reduce GHG emissions. In
addition, our Sustainable Technology Evaluation Program is working with businesses to identify
and test the best available technologies for getting us to our climate goals. Through this research
and industry training we are helping our communities select and install the right technologies for
the job. We would welcome the opportunity to expand and highlight this work as part of your
Plan.
From an adaptation investment perspective, better information on the risk/return ratios is needed.
For example, climate scenario analysis and vulnerability assessments can help inform
return -on -investment calculations for adaptation investment decisions in critical infrastructure
sectors. This requires best -in -class climate information, and the expertise to translate that into
cost benefit tools. TRCA is developing this expertise, in collaboration with our Ontario Climate
Consortium partners, and is eager to work with our municipal and provincial partners to
mainstream this practice into asset management and capital planning across the public sector.
Support for this effort via inclusion of similar direction in your Plan would help accelerate better
decision making.
4. Finding a Balanced Solution to put People First, while making Life Affordable and
taking Ontario's Role in Fighting Climate Change Seriously.
Conservation First - Conservation (e.g. energy and water consumption) is the most
cost-effective way to drive emissions reductions across key sectors while also making life more
affordable for families by reducing utility bills. The narratives of conservation and environmental
stewardship go hand-in-hand and, and can also help to drive investment and job creation in local
communities such as contractors delivering home retrofits that reduce energy cost for
households.
The TRCA has a range of programs that support conservation efforts across a range of sectors.
For example, our Partners in Project Green (PPG) program is supporting resource conservation
in the industrial commercial sectors, while our Sustainable Neighbourhoods program (SNAP) is
working in mainly suburban residential neighbourhoods across the GTA to engage communities
in conservation and stewardship efforts. Both of these programs are driving GHG emissions
reductions, along with a range of other environmental priorities, as well as cost savings for
households and businesses. These are proven successful models that could be scaled up
across the province.
For the institutional sector (e.g. hospitals, schools and municipalities), TRCA has been working
with the private sector to identify low capital ways to unlock significant savings in cost, energy and
GHG emissions. Through our community transformation program with the Ontario school sector,
we identified readily achievable savings of $71 million in costs, 262,000MWhH in electricity, 140
million m3 in natural gas and total GHG emissions reduction potential of 213ktonnes. The
Community Transformation Program is another model that could be scaled up across the
province.
Scaling -up EV deployment— Electric vehicles are another pathway to drastically reduce
Ontario's GHG emissions while making life more affordable for families. EVs can rely on
made -in -Ontario electricity to power them, and result in reduced annual fuel costs for the average
consumer. When EVs are charged overnight, consumers are taking advantage of Ontario's
surplus baseload electricity, and helping to create local jobs (win -win-win). TRCA is working with
its municipal partners to develop local and regional strategies to scale -up EV adoption in the GTA.
We are keen to share the results of these municipal strategies with the province, to seek support
and enable scaling -up of successful approaches.
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FINANCIAL DETAILS
Staff is engaged in this policy analysis work as per the normal course of their duties. No additional
funding is proposed.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• TRCA staff to continue to stay engaged with the Province of Ontario as details and potential
future engagements for their new climate change plan are released.
Report prepared by: Glenn Milner, extension 5844
Emails: glenn.milnerC&trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Glenn Milner. extension 5844
Emails: glenn.milner(a)trca.on.ca
Date: November 14, 2018
RES.#A194/18 - 2019 BUDGET UPDATE
Prospective 2019 Municipal
submission process.
(Executive Res.#8108/18)
Moved by: David Barrow
Seconded by: Maria Augimeri
Levies. Update on the 2019 municipal budget
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's (TRCA) 2019 Budget Update report be
received.
CARRIED
Section IV — Ontario Regulation 166/06, As Amended
RES.#A195/18 - SECTION IV — ONTARIO REGULATION 166/06, AS AMENDED
Moved by: Paul Ainslie
Seconded by: Jack Heath
THAT Section IV Item 10.3 — Ontario Regulation 166/06, as amended, contained in
Executive Committee Minutes #9/18, held on November 9, 2018, be received.
CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS
RES.#A196/18 - TORONTO WILDLIFE CENTRE
Moved by: David Barrow
Seconded by: Maria Augimeri
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority staff be directed to communicate to
Canada Lands Company (CLC) the Board's recommendation to continue, on an interim
basis, its lease with the Toronto Wildlife Centre at Downsview Park.
CARRIED
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
RES.#A197/18 -
Moved by: Jack Heath
Seconded by: Glenn De Baeremaeker
THAT the Committee move into closed session to discuss personal matters about an
identifiable individual, including staff of TRCA, and to discuss financial information that
has monetary value or potential monetary value.
CARRIED
RISE AND REPORT
RES.#A198/18 —
Moved by: Paula Fletcher
Seconded by: Jennifer Innis
THAT the Committee rise and report from closed session.
RES.#A199/18 - PERSONNEL MATTERS
Moved by: Paula Fletcher
Seconded by: Jennifer Innis
THAT Chief Executive Officer and HR Associate Director report back on the matter in
December 2018.
CARRIED
RES.#A200/18 - TRCA NEW ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE BUILDING PROJECT
Moved by: Linda Pabst
Seconded by: Jack Heath
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) CEO and CFOO be delegated
the powers of the Board of Directors to take the necessary action to secure construction
and term financing for TRCA's New Administrative Office Building Project in the City of
Toronto.
CARRIED
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TERMINATION
ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 11:51 a.m., on Friday, November 30, 2018.
Maria Augimeri
Chair
/am
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John MacKenzie
Secretary -Treasurer