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Home My WebLink AboutReport Package - Regional Watershed Alliance_Mar03_2021Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Regional Watershed Alliance Meeting was held via video conference on Wednesday March 3, 2021, pursuant to section C.12 of the TRCA's Board of Directors Administrative By -Law. The Chair Jennifer Drake, called the meeting to order at 6:37 p.m. PRESENT Drake, Jennifer Chair Bowers, Thomas Member Dies, Joanne Member Dyce, Dave (in at 7:04 p.m.) Member Hamilton, Jackie Member Innis, Jennifer (out at 8:09 p.m.) Member Keenan, Rosemary Member Kelleher, Maria (in at 6:42 p.m.) Member Laing, David Member Lockridge, Karen Member Malowany, Mick Member Mallet, Lisette (in at 6:42 p.m.) Member Mattos, Mike Member McDowell, Madeleine Member McGlynn, Chris Member Miller, Learie Member Ngan, Amory Member Parsons, Blayre Member Pickles, David (in at 6:42 p.m.) Member Richardson, Cameron Member Wickens, Andy Vice -Chair REGRETS Anvari, Alireza Member Bream, Margaret Member Broadbent, Heather Member Burnett, Neil Member Calvin, Elizabeth Member Dasko, Stephen Member Deawuo, Leticia Member Felix, Rui Member Gomez, Orlando Member Groves, Annette Member Heath, Jack Member lacobelli, Tony Member Nonnekes, Joanne Member O'Connor, Kevin Member Olivieri, Sara Member Presutti, Michael Member Schulte, Deb Member Vrana, Andrew Member Wright, Doug Member The Chair recited the Acknowledgement of Indigenous Territory. RES.#R1/21 - MINUTES OF MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 18, 2020 Moved by: Jennifer Innis Seconded by: Andy Wickens THAT the Minutes of Meeting held on November 18, 2020, be approved. CARRIED CORRESPONDENCE 6.1 An email dated March 2, 2021 from Iain Craig, in regard to item 7.2 — Scarborough Claireville Conservation Area Public Use Activation Plan. RES.#R2/21 - CORRESPONDENCE Moved by: Mike Mattos Seconded by: Cameron Richardson THAT the above -noted correspondence item 6.1 be added to the agenda for the March 3, 2020 Regional Watershed Alliance meeting. CARRIED RES.#R3/21 - CORRESPONDENCE Moved by: David Laing Seconded by: Joanne Dies THAT the above -noted correspondence item 6.1 be received. CARRIED Item 6.1 Daniel Ruberto Subject: RE: The upcoming RWA meeting and Agenda. -----Original Messa a ----- From: IAIN CRAIG Sent: Tuesday, Marc To: Victoria Kramkowski <Victoria.Kramkowski@trca.ca> Subject: The upcoming RWA meeting and Agenda. Hello Victoria. Thank you for sending me a copy of the Agenda. I'm sure you and your colleagues have put a lot of time and effort into preparing it - and especially the Activation Plan for Claireville. The upcoming meeting is simply to review and possibly endorse the Activation Plan. So this may not be the time to start adding specific concerns to the plan. However, I do have several concerns. This Plan, and it's implementation, appears to be a lengthy process. The plan does not identify a "Long Term Vision" for Claireville. The lack of an identified view of the future for Claireville, is hampering any plan to move forward. What is TRCA's long term plan for Claireville? At the present time it appears that doing an "Investigation" is keeping the agitators at bay. I say that with all due respect to the TRCA Staff. Why is TRCA not moving ahead to make Claireville operate in a similar fashion to many of the other well used Conservation Areas (Boyd, Albion Hills, Bruce's Mill ....)? If the long term plan is to keep Claireville open, with the present limited use approach, then let the public know that Is it possible to add a fourth point to the resolution on page 10? That the TRCA determine if the Claireville Conservation Area should open and operate in a similar fashion to other GTA Conservation Areas (Boyd, Albion Hills, Bruce's Mill, Heart Lake...) At the present time the Activation Plan is simply a 'planned' "Investigation". Without a detailed answer to this fourth part of the Resolution, we are proceeding slowly with no vision. I would like to pass this on to the meeting, as a comment. lain. Section I — Items for the Action of the Regional Watershed Alliance RES.#R4/21 - BRAMPTON RIVERWALK URBAN DESIGN MASTER PLAN UPDATE To inform and engage the Regional Watershed Alliance regarding the status and development of the Brampton Riverwalk Area Urban Design Master Plan. Moved by: Lisette Mallet Seconded by: Madeleine McDowell WHEREAS the Brampton Riverwalk Urban Design Master Plan is being developed by the City of Brampton with input of the TRCA and stakeholders including the Regional Watershed Alliance; THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Regional Watershed Alliance receive the City of Brampton staff report and presentation on the Riverwalk Urban Design Master Plan; AND FURTHER THAT City of Brampton staff continue to engage the Regional Watershed Alliance through completion of the Plan and during implementation of the Plan. CARRIED BACKGROUND Riverwalk Overview The Riverwalk is an important initiative in Downtown Brampton - a city building initiative that integrates flood protection and infrastructure with open space/public realm and placemaking, downtown revitalization and re -development, environmental protection and enhancement, climate change mitigation and adaptation. Its ultimate goal is to remove a significant portion of the Downtown from the threat of flood, transforming a liability into a sustainable asset and attraction. The Riverwalk is a complex program integrating a number of projects, was characterized as a game -changer project for the City, has been continuously supported by City Council since its initiation, and has been designated a current Term of Council Priority. Initiated in 2011 as a partnership between the City of Brampton and Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), the Riverwalk initiative, which will be located along the Downtown Brampton portion of Etobicoke Creek, has initially focused on updating the Special Policy Area (SPA) in place since the 1980s. An SPA update was approved by the Province in 2014, and recommended that long-term solutions to reducing flood risk be pursued. A number of feasibility studies were initiated to evaluate potential flood protection and mitigation solutions as well as the related urban design opportunities. The Vision for the area, approved by Council in June 2014, has the moniker "The City Faces the River, the City Discovers the River" and includes a number of key principles including "Green", "protect", "discover', and "diversity" driving resilience, sustainability and healthy development concepts, including environmental remediation and enhancement as well as identifying the Riverwalk area as a demonstration project and "game changer" in the city. For illustrations of the Vision and the initial concepts please check the Riverwalk program web site including the advocacy video, renderings and the Virtual Reality (VR) experience (www. Bram pton.ca/riverwalk). These concepts were further advanced through the City of Brampton 2040 Vision, endorsed by Brampton Council in 2018, which focused on "green" and "eco -design" as overarching concepts and identified the Riverwalk as a priority for revitalizing the Downtown. With the Council adoption of the Eco Park strategy in February 2020 the Riverwalk became a key Eco Space demonstration project. For more information about the Eco Park Strategy see the Grow Green strategy document: (https://www.brampton.ca/EN/residents/GrowGreen/Documents/Brampton Eco Park Strategy FINAL.pdf) A Downtown Brampton Flood Protection Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) was initiated in 2018, led by TRCA in partnership with the City of Brampton, and included multiple points of engagement and consultation with the public. The Environmental Study Report was completed in the Summer of 2020 and the EA was approved on September 31, 2020. In conjunction with the EA, an Urban Design Master Plan (UDMP) study was initiated in 2019 to study the entire Etobicoke Creek valley through Downtown Brampton. A Report to RWA was submitted and presented in March 2020 highlighting the scope and status of the project. The following provides an update on the UDMP and its progress. URBAN DESIGN (OPEN SPACE) MASTER PLAN (UDMP) - CURRENT CONDITION The UDMP, which is being led by the City, commenced in 2019 and is intended to complement the EA flood protection works by creating outward and around it, with the goal to produce an overall master plan for the area's open space with design concepts for the main open spaces/parks, including preliminary programming, and to integrate resilience and sustainability concepts. Objectives The UDMP is an open space master plan and • assists and complements the EA to assess urban design and landscape impacts of engineering solutions, identify opportunities, and propose landscape treatments for flood mitigation solutions and their integration within the broader planning and design concepts • studies the broader valley area, with a focus on: open space and public realm including programming, events, education; integration of sustainable mobility, in particular active transportation; environmental and ecological enhancement, resilience, sustainability and healthy development; improvements in the area's character and identity; its attraction to the city's diverse population and for visitors. • will provide urban design and landscape concepts and guidelines including for the upcoming Flood Protection Detailed Design, preliminary programming, as well as a framework for resilience, sustainability and healthy development to be further detailed and developed. • will also include concepts for parks, trails, and public realm development facilitating advancement for the Riverwalk implementation and its contribution to Downtown revitalization. The study is also looking at best examples and innovative case studies, in order to learn from the most advanced and innovative approaches that are striving to integrate resilient infrastructure, placemaking, sustainable mobility, revitalization and economic development. Study Scope The Open Space Plan is focused on the Etobicoke Creek valley between Vodden Street and Clarence Street (see Attachment 1 for the study area) and has the following major areas of focus: • Creating a landmark Eco Park Space that will be a pilot/demonstration project for resilience and sustainability; • Opportunities for environmental enhancements, parks development, programming (including for environmental education), character and identity, public art, and celebration of local history, including that of Indigenous communities; • Opportunities to make the entire area more resilient, sustainable, healthy, and accessible, as well as an economic development attraction and trigger for revitalization/redevelopment; and • Developing a Resilience, Sustainability, and Healthy Development Framework that looks in more detail at opportunities for: - environmental enhancements (vegetation, ecology, water, air) - resilience (climate change mitigation), sustainable development (e.g. low impact development, storm water management, energy), - opportunities for healthy development (walkability, healthy living, social/mental health) Using this Framework, a comprehensive Resilience, Sustainability and Healthy Development Plan will be developed consequently for the area including key indicators and performance monitoring in conjunction with the broader City initiative to further develop the Sustainability Indicators. Progress Update Based on a thorough analysis of the existing conditions including, a SWOT and Constraints and Opportunities analysis in the Fall of 2019, the project team updated the 2014 Vision for the area and developed Design Principles. These were presented to a number of City Committees (Brampton Environmental Advisory Committee/BEAC, Brampton Heritage Board/BHB), to a Community Liaison Team including representatives from the City's most relevant community groups in September of 2020 and to the public at a virtual Public Information Session (PIS) on October 15', 2020, followed by a survey. This consultation provided valuable input into subsequent work on the development of the programming and design directions. To access the materials presented at the PIS and the survey please see the Riverwalk program web site and the "Have Your Say" engagement page (htti)s://www. brami)ton.ca/EN/Business/planning-development/proiects- studies/riverwal k/Pages/Have-Your-Say.aspx). The team developed preliminary design concepts in consultation with key stakeholders including TRCA and Region of Peel and a Technical Team with focus on a few main areas: programming, transportation, environment, resilience/sustainability, public health; placemaking, character and identity. The design directions and preliminary concepts will be presented to the Technical Advisory Team, the Community Liaison Team and the public at sessions to be organized in March 2021 for comments to be incorporated in the final concepts and report expected in Q2/2021. The design approaches are based on the Vision update and principles presented in the Fall of 2020 and include: • The Eco Park Space concept as a main driver for the design of the area based on environmental and ecological protection and enhancement, focus on resilience (both adaptation and mitigation), sustainable and green development principles (including low impact, green infrastructure development) as well as healthy development (active living for all ages, walkability and accessibility). • Programming for a variety of uses and for a wide variety of users including active sports, healthy living/active transportation, city wide events, entertainment, environmental education, tourism attraction with broad community involvement. • Recognizing the important role of the area in promoting sustainable mobility including the proximity of the Downtown mobility hub, the expanding regional transit/GO service, the high order transit network (upcoming Queen street BRT in particular) and also the most important active transportation network in the City with the Etobicoke Creek Trail as its main spine. • Emphasizing the opportunities for strengthening Downtown character identity, place - making and attractions based on the area's history and heritage, providing cultural development opportunities, creation and installation of public art, wayfinding and signage. • The design concepts development process is also taking into consideration social issues, and will rely strongly on inclusiveness with strong public realm accessible to the City's diverse population, with accessibility for all ages and groups at its core, to be further developed at the Downtown scale. The design approaches are also taking into account the lessons from the current pandemic where access to nature and open space, alternative transportation, and public amenities are central to health and well-being, recognizing how the Riverwalk area is envisioned to play a very important role for Downtown and the City at large in providing these services. RATIONALE TRCA Involvement in the Riverwalk UDMP TRCA led the Downtown Brampton Flood Protection Environmental Assessment on behalf of the City of Brampton, and TRCA continues to play a supporting role in the realization of the Riverwalk UDMP. TRCA staff serve on the Riverwalk UDMP Technical Team, as well as take part in separate discussions with City staff on an as -needed basis in order to support and inform the design approaches that are part of the UDMP. In particular, TRCA staff have provided, and will continue to provide, input and guidance related to programming, outdoor education, low impact development, Indigenous engagement, restoration and ecological function, and trails and active transportation. Given the interdisciplinary nature of the Riverwalk UDMP, Government and Community Relations staff are playing a coordinating role for the involvement various TRCA staff and divisions in this process. TRCA staff will continue to work with City staff to look for additional opportunities to support the development and implementation of the Riverwalk UDMP and the flood protection solution identified in the Downtown Brampton Flood Protection Municipal Class EA. In order to support its partner municipality, TRCA also worked to advocate for funding for implementation of the flood protection solution for Downtown Brampton. In particular, TRCA has frequently communicated with the Federal government on the importance of implementing the Downtown Brampton Flood Protection Municipal Class EA for the purposes of protecting property, enabling development in an appropriate urban setting and setting the stage for the once -in -a -generation urban renewal opportunity that the Riverwalk UDMP provides. TRCA also provided support for the City of Brampton's successful Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) application which resulted in a major announcement for Downtown Brampton Flood Protection in November 2020. Conclusions When completed at the end of Q2/2021 the UDMP will produce urban design concepts and guidelines for five areas (Dugan Park, Central Public School Park, Rosalea Park, the re- constructed Etobicoke Creek bypass channel, and Centennial Park), and these designs will be incorporated into the detailed design for the flood protection works proposed in the EA. The Riverwalk is an important, innovative initiative in Brampton and the surrounding region, which sets a new, integrative approach to resilience, sustainability, flood mitigation and open space design. When complete, the Riverwalk will: • Protect property and mitigate negative impacts from flooding; • Develop a central park system and contribute to Brampton's Eco Park initiative; • Make a more resilient, sustainable, and healthy Downtown and City; • Build community, support diversity and bring people together; • Support diversity and culture and improve social balance; • Trigger infrastructure renewal and greening; • Generate employment, attract people and investment; • Revitalize Downtown Brampton and contribute to the city's sustainable development; and • Stimulate new approaches, innovation, change Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan: Strategy 3 — Rethink greenspace to maximize its value Strategy 4 — Create complete communities that integrate nature and the built environment Strategy 7 — Build partnerships and new business models FINANCIAL DETAILS Currently, TRCA staff is providing input and support to the UDMP through various divisions and through their roles in the project. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE Further details will be presented as the project will be finalized, at which point Brampton staff would like to engage more thoroughly with the Regional Watershed Alliance, likely in summer of 2021. Report prepared by: Alex Taranu, City of Brampton, 416-806-2517, and Victoria Kramkowski, extension 5707 Emails: Alex.Taranu(&Brampton.ca; Victoria.Kramkowski(a-trca.ca For Information contact: Alex Taranu, City of Brampton, 416-806-2517, and Victoria Kramkowski, extension 5707 Emails: Alex.Taranu(a2Brampton.ca; Victoria.Kramkowski &,trca.ca Date: February 24, 2021 Attachments: 1 Attachment 1: Brampton Riverwalk Urban Design Master Plan Status - Study Area Attachment 2: Presentation Attachment 1 Brampton Riverwalk Urban Design Master Plan Status - Study Area la � AIS�>a dx r MMI INAMI:AKO] 0i1.:I:J1y/=:m►iT/! U MV1113 hyd aw Presentation for the Regional Watershed Alliance March 3, 2021 Michael Heralall, Sr. Manager Stavroula Kassaris, Environmental Alex Taranu, Sr. Advisor, Design Environment and Engineering Planner, Environment and Engineering Environment and Engineering Public Works & Engineering Department, City of Brampton The Riverwalk Program: Overview • Key infrastructure and transformative initiative for Downtown Brampton • Integrates flood protection, revitalization, nature and open space, place making, public amenities • Transforms a liability into a sustainable asset and attraction for economic growth and people • Integrates with other strategic initiatives • Catalyst for Downtown revitalization, development www. brampton. ca/riverwalk Concept 3D y The Riverwalk Program: Policy Context and Support • Provincial Urban Growth Centre, Special Policy Area update (2014) • TRCA Living City Strategy • Brampton Grow Green Environmental Master Plan • Parks and Recreation Master Plan • Active Transportation Master Plan • Council approval of the Vision, Feasibility Studies; continuous Council support • Current Term of Council priority • Brampton 2040 Vision, Downtown provisions • Brampton Eco Park Strategy (2020) • Economic Development Master Plan, Tourism Strategies • Arts and Culture Master Plan update, upcoming Heritage Strategy • ROP Active Parks Design Guide, COB Sustainabilitv Guidelines and Indicators BRAMPTON ECO PARK STRATEGY ., 0 ActiveParks Design Guide FIVE-YFAR HPUTF �- 8UILUING The Living City ;W a� o Conservati IG on AUIM1 3 The Riverwa Access Ik: Lessons from th uCPfNSER ff Key current issues arising from pandemic lessons: • Access to nature and open space • Access to sustainable mobility • Access to affordable housing • Access to amenities The "new" economy Post -pandemic City opportunities BRAMPTON e Pandemic RkATWAR (7 u�+MsiAvcc GiPSuiFR � 1 � L111 ��-� f�1�' Y �RPVpaYl SlauNFR Riverwalk Program: Advocacy, Communication, Engagement • Presentations, walks, social media posts • Website is key information and communication platform ✓ Overview of program ✓ Key documents ✓ FAQs ✓ Image gallery (past, present, future) ✓ Visualizations and videos • Stakeholder engagement • Outreach to community • Community Liaison Team • Public Info Session Oct 1St • Upcoming Public Session See https://www.brampton.ca/EN/Business/planning-development/proiects- studies/riverwalWPages/Have-Your-Say.aspx for more information and updates www. bramnton. ca/riverwalk BRAMPTON 5 Riverwalk Program Work Components: Overview noon.xnR�noR L.ewrcioww aw.wN,om s{iiiea 'i`. ��r�roop vE�sous w,eoo�poes MERMuKKL.OKTRVRIox „a.sus M,LLpX o.a.«.moo I Rry6RW1LR OfY6LOYKMT Unlocking Downtown Brampton .M l-oe ,1etu.d b,..1 Downtown Brampton Flood Protection Env. Assessment (DBFP EA) • Commenced in 2018 to seek solutions for Downtown Brampton flood protection • Led by Toronto & Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) in partnership with the City of Brampton • Completed Summer 2020; approved in Sep 2020 Urban Design/Open Space Master Plan (UDMP) • Commenced in 2019 to complement the EA • Led by City of Brampton • Producing an overall master plan for open space; design concepts for the main parks; preliminary programming; integrating sustainability and resilience • Public engagement and consultation Sep -Oct 2020 Economic Development, Real Estate • Return on Investment (R01) Study (2019) • Identified significant economic benefits of unlocking development in Downtown Brampton Advocacy and Funding • $38.8 M from federal Disaster Mitigation Fund • $5.9 M approved by Council for Detailed Design Riverwalk Program: Timelines 2011 Project Initiation ETOBICOKE CREEK JJJJMWFM%1 ij 2014-18 Feasibility studies Phase 1 and 2 2014 Special Policy Area Amendment 2019 Economic Impact Study 2018-2020 Flood Protection Environmental Assessment 2019-21 Urban Design Master Plan 2021.23 Detailed design for Flood Protection 2020 EA Approved, Federal Funding Announcement 2023 Potential start of Construction 7 Urban Design Master Plan: Overview • Complements Environmental Assessment (EA) engineering solutions and proposes landscape treatments for flood mitigation elements • Produces open space and public realm master plan for entire valley • Integrates active transportation and transit • Provides preliminary programming elements for parks • Focuses on making attractive places for all, character and identity improvements • Provides a framework for resilience, sustainability and healthy living for the area • Targeting completion by Q2 2021 Riverwalk UDMP: Work to Date Summary Natural Creek Bed in Centennial Park Naturalized Planting in Centennial Park Meadow in Duggan Park Constraints and Opportunities �1( Analysis � 1 Valley and 5 component areas (Duggan Park, Central Public School Park, Rosalea GO sten n , * Park, revamped channel, Centennial Park) Existing Condition Analysis Review context, current state; open space system/parks, environment, transportation and access, environment, cultural heritage, accessibility "tattor, ca n' Riverwalk UDMP: Work to Date Riverwalk Vision The City Faces the River The City Rediscovers the River The original vision for Riverwalk presented opportunities for downtown revitalization. The Downtown Elobicoke Creek Revitalization Study was approved by Brampton City Council in June 2014. Design Principles and objectives Riverwalk is Brampton's new riverfront, a continuous ribbon of open space that weaves through and intersects the City's urban fabric and provides a focal point for city building, community, ecology, resilience and sustainability. Environment, Resilience, Sustainability, Public Health focus Links & Integration & Connections Intensification Connect major destinations along and adjacent to Riverwalk. Link Riverwalk blke lanes, streets and transit. Integrate Riverealk Into surrounding neighbourloods, public realm Impmvemants. Establish a hierarchy of pathways and trails that am esslble, safe and understandable. Establish leaps and links to for a Al and varied experij Create integral, and boardwalks that are accessible and sale. Redefine and urbanize Riverwalk edges. Create a vibrant riverfroM amenity by buudwg upon the Flood Protection measures. Establish a new destination identity or the Riverwalk & Downtown. Create strong urban ectil between the Riverwalk and Downtown Bmmpon. Programming & Recreation Enhance programs and features to increase re merit nal Opportunities while protecting sensitNe habitats. Provide new pedestrian experiences of open spaces and water's edge. Improve and enhance the overall public realm and functionality. Develop varied movement and ,made. routes_ Encourage nature -based play and expmranon. Encourage physical activity and wellness. r YYY so al 2� r i' - Discovery, Education & Interpretation "The Riverwalk... ...provides a focal point for city building, community, ecology, resilience and sustainability" Showcase the rich cultural heritage associated vnlh Downtown Bramptonthe nFuccke Creek and within Ne Riverwalk study area. Davot clear and consistent waynl and monarch. sII around male, trail entry. points and nodes. • Share the story of the Eobicoke• creeks natural and human history through public art and is other Installations. r Protect, Preserve & —1 Enhance i i Expand and enhance terrestrial 1 1 and aquatic habitat formative 1 nor.. no round. Enhance responsible interaction) 1 with the natural environment.) 1 Protect and preserve the most 1 sensitive natural areas. 1 Protect, enhance and establish 1 new vlaw corridors, vistas 1 1 and visual Concern... from ...ounding streets, bridges and) 1 celghboalumme, and within that Rwar -1k Prrecl-ct- Sustainability& ; Resilience 1 1 •1 Exhibgeuaa best 1 practices andnd climate change 1 1 leadership through Nnovad 1 design, robust amaterialsand1 few, maintenances andd cohesive 1 management frameworks. 1 •1 Celebrate enhance. createaob 1 Integra scoloi 1 dow am habbitat,Improvngaeslllency to 1 1 cllmao change. increasing our 1 1 natural capital and protecting 1 valuable natural resources and 1 ecosystems for the future. 1 Safety i&1 Create a continuous van that provides a clear, sate and Intutllve route through Riverwalk. Provide clear and sate access all levels of mobility and ablllty Implement a hated waynnding and slgnage strategy Create a lighting strategy addresses public safety objectives white schleving the highest standards of habitat protection, reduction of light poll len and energy efnolency. BRAIPTQ N See Riverwalk Engagement Web Page, UDMP Public Session presentation, Oct 151, 2020 https://www.brampton.ca/EN/Business/planning-developmentlproiects-studieslriverwalkIPages/Have-Your-Say.aspx 10 Riverwalk UDMP: Environment, Resilience, Sustainability, Public Health • Framework stage - planning and design directions, integration: ✓ natural heritage enhancement ✓ climate change mitigation and adaptation ✓ Sustainable mobility ✓ sustainability, green energy and infrastructure ✓ low impact development, storm water management ✓ urban agriculture ✓ active living, public health and wellbeing ✓ access to nature ✓ economic sustainability, social equity ✓ environmental education • Collaboration, partnerships: TRCA, Region of Peel, community • Potential pilot/demonstration projects including in the interim • Resilience, Sustainability and Healthy Development Framework to become complete Plan including performance indicators BRAMPTON il The Riverwalk Program: Brampton Eco Park Brampton Eco Park = a network of sustainable urban/green spaces (at the city scale), referred to as Eco Spaces, that better integrate residents with the natural environment Guided by 7 principles: 1) Maximize ecological value 2) Provide opportunities for social services 5) Integrate with surrounding community 6) Support innovation 7) Reflect local identity 3) Make nature visible 4) Design with nature Eco Spaces a) enhance and maintain healthy natural systems and processes b) integrate opportunities for meaningful social and environmental interactions and experiences c) strive to incorporate the seven guiding Eco Park principles www. brampton. ca/ecopark Highly naturalized systems Eco Park as design driver: "to plan, design and improve the Riverwalk area as a premier Eco Space" Balanced social and environmental systems High functioning social systems Riverwalk UDMP: Design Drivers, Directions • Eco Park Space concept ✓ Environmental and ecological enhancement ✓ Green infrastructure ✓ Access to nature • Programming for a variety of uses, for inclusivity ✓ Passive and active recreation options ✓ Events, entertainment, public art ✓ Natural and cultural heritage education • Focus on sustainable/ low/no carbon mobility ✓ Enhancing the active transportation network ✓ Proximity of the Downtown mobility hub, regional transit/GO service, future LRT, Zum ✓ High order transit network (upcoming Queen street BRT) • Strengthening Downtown character and identity ✓ Place -making and attractions based on the area's history/heritage, interpretative program ✓ Cultural events, public art, wayfinding edreix �;, Gibg..n M.,hk,k, Riverwalk UDMP: Design Directions, Approaches, Intent • Multi use, flexible spaces for a variety of uses • Programming and design for all ages and abilities (8-80) • Inviting and inclusive public spaces, public amenities for all • Comfort and safety, accessibility • Variety of spaces, places and amenities from urban to natural • Support for equity, social balance, education • Attraction for downtown, events • Integrated /eco -design, "design with nature" Design for people, with people, design with heart. BRAMPTON 14 Riverwalk UDMP: Focus on Five Areas and Parks • Duggan Park • Central Public School/ Ken Whilans parkway • Rosalea Park • The Channel • Centennial Park �� 15 Riverwalk UDMP: Design Directions — Centennial Park Area 5: Centennial Park North Riverwalk South Gateway Legend ®Riverwalk Signature Landscape pl�i} Cycle Path lJ Walking Trail ® Parking L� Seating Naturalization •` Views ® Playground Fish Ladder Soccer Field Tennis Court t ® Picnic Area New fish passage at*, south end of bypass channel Potential for new connection to Cemetery and to John Street beneath railway on east bank '.-j New gathering spaces along ` Expand naturalization and improve ecologies on east and west side of creels ajes1 S, QtO% Riverwalk Signature a I.. r. \\ New Bike lanes on Centre Street Enhanced grade - separated railway crossing at Centre Street Opportunities to y y connect to hospital and a park east of site. _ Opportunities for LID { beneath sports fields and ty parking lots. h 4 •' Expand naturalization and improve ecologies on east �4 and west side of creek 7,1 . New mid -point pedestrian 16 Riverwalk Area, Downtown Revitalization and Development New mixed use development Downtown Mobility Hub Peel Memorial Health Centre +health cluster Etobicoke Creek flood Innovation Corridor, YMCA site services, Downtown Institutional expansion, employment mitigation and trail Rapid Regional Transit amenities, intensification Core New Innovation Centre Future University Future health based development Queen Street 921111111111111111 P�n 7r* 1 r— Future intensification/TOD Etobicoke Creek flood Future mixed use Etobicoke Creek Queen Street High Order mitigation and Redeveloped development, partnerships valley and parks Riverwalk trail system Transit and Intensification Rosalea Park Existing and future public amenities When completed the Riverwalk will: • Protect from flood and disasters • Revitalize Downtown and surrounding area • Trigger infrastructure renewal • Generate employment, attract people, investment • Build community, support diversity, bring people together • Develop central park system, contribute to Brampton Eco Park • Make a resilient, sustainable, healthy Downtown and City • Support diversity and culture, improve social life • Stimulate new approaches, innovation, change Thank you! IBB R A M P T 0 N RES.#R5/21 - CLAIREVILLE CONSERVATION AREA PUBLIC USE ACTIVATION PLAN In response to feedback received by TRCA to improve the public use and access of Claireville Conservation Area, staff have undertaken a review of current uses and programs, and a needs assessment from the local community, stakeholders, and municipal partners in order to develop the Claireville Conservation Area Public Use Activation Plan. Moved by: Joanne Dies Seconded by: Mike Mattos THAT the Regional Watershed Alliance endorse the actions and recommendations laid out in the Activation Plan and presentation; THAT any additional input received by the Regional Watershed Alliance at its March 3, 2021, meeting be considered by staff prior to finalizing the Claireville Conservation Area Public Use Activation Plan; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff continue to work both internally and externally with municipal partners and stakeholders to implement the recommended actions laid out in the Activation Plan. CARRIED BACKGROUND Claireville Conservation Area ("Claireville") is a unique, valuable, and desirable greenspace located within a highly urbanized setting. The 848 -hectare park is located primarily in the City of Brampton, with a small portion (19 hectares) falling within the City of Toronto. Claireville is also located in close proximity to the City of Mississauga and the City of Vaughan. Claireville operates under a passive operating model, without regular staff, gate admissions, and supporting comfort services. The park, however, offers a multitude of recreational opportunities and attracts both regular and intermittent users. In the past, Claireville was predominantly agricultural land, with limited development nearby. In recent decades, significant industrial, commercial and residential development has occurred around Claireville, increasing the potential for public use of the site, as well as the importance of offering and properly utilizing a large greenspace in an urban area. TRCA staff completed the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan Update ("Management Plan Update') in 2012, which lays out the most recent overarching priorities and direction for the management of Claireville. The Management Plan Update includes an emphasis on ecological restoration of the site and passive use. TRCA then endorsed the Claireville Conservation Area Land Management Implementation Plan ("the Implementation Plan") in 2015 to further direct priority implementation projects. Public interest has driven TRCA to explore how Claireville can be better activated to support the needs and desires of the community and current and potential users of Claireville, as well as to fulfill TRCA's mandate. At Regional Watershed Alliance meeting #3/18, the following resolution was passed in response to a delegation made by Iain Craig: THAT TRCA staff provide an on-site tour and an update on the progress and planning for the Claireville Conservation Area to the Greenspace and Ecosystem Services Working Group of the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA) and other interested Alliance members,- THAT embers, THAT the Greenspace and Ecosystem Services Working Group of the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA) work with staff to investigate opportunities to animate Claireville Conservation Area and create programming and infrastructure that will promote greenspace engagement, ecosystem preservation and education, and outdoor activities to the diverse communities of the local community and GTA and report back in Quarter 2 2019, THAT the RWA and staff should also investigate potential partnerships and involvement of municipal, provincial and federal governments, as well as other means of generating the sustained investment and funding that would be required to implement the proposed priorities. As a result, TRCA staff have developed the draft Claireville Public Use Activation Plan ("Activation Plan") to lay out the groundwork for activating Claireville. RATIONALE The Activation Plan was guided by three goals: • Activate Claireville Conservation Area through improved public perception and use of the site; • Improve the public's connection to, and use of, Claireville through new and existing partnerships and programs; and • Align the activation of Claireville with TRCA's strategic priorities and the existing Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan. The term "activation" can be interpreted in multiple ways. To achieve activation, the recommendations in this plan seek to achieve that: • Visitors feel that Claireville is an open, safe and welcoming site. The care that TRCA and relevant partners have for Claireville is evident, as is their efforts to both make the public comfortable and protect ecological values. • The surrounding community becomes "active owners" of Claireville. This means that the community feels a sense of ownership of, and responsibility for, Claireville and is engaged in its care, management and programming. • Existing and new programming is offered at Claireville. Programming fits the needs and desires of the local community and other visitors. Programming offered at Claireville aligns with TRCA's values and priorities. • Programming, services and infrastructure can be offered by TRCA and/or other partners. Collaborating with partners should result in some, or all, of the following: innovative partnership structures; efficiencies of resources; more appropriate or interesting programming and events; reduced burden on TRCA staff time and resources; and economic, cultural, social or environmental benefits to the community and surrounding neighbourhood. • Appropriate facilities are available that complement the passive use focus of Claireville, while supporting visitors and programming • It is acknowledged that activation involves both short- and long-term goals and actions A subsequent investigation and cataloguing of all of the initiatives and programs historically carried out in Claireville, as well as an inventory of current and ongoing work and programs, was completed. Key stakeholders, including partner municipalities, internal TRCA staff teams, Peel Region Police, and community groups, were interviewed to determine their ongoing needs and/or desires for the conservation area. Results from those interviews informed the development of an online survey. A link to the survey was mailed to all residents in the postal codes surrounding the conservation area. The link was also included on signs that were installed temporarily at key points within Claireville. Environics data from the postal codes surrounding the conservation area was used to identify demographic trends within the local communities, and Google reviews and analytics were recorded as a means to better understand user experience and the popularity of Claireville. The results from this investigatory work are all included in the Activation Plan (Attachment 1). From that investigation, several themes emerged that informed the development of recommendations that could be implemented to achieve the three goals guiding the activation plan. Actions to achieve these goals and objectives are outlined within the Activation Plan (Attachment 1). It should also be noted that the third goal of aligning actions with Management Plan goals and TRCA strategic plan was considered throughout all recommendations. The objectives and recommendations within the Activation Plan are: Objective 1: Reduce user conflict The most common user conflict identified are the result of dogs off -leash. This was an issue that was repeatedly brought up in stakeholder meetings, on the survey, in the Google reviews and by TRCA staff more broadly. • Recommendation 1a: Investigate non-TRCA off -leash dog area in partnership with City of Brampton, in conjunction with increased enforcement at Claireville. Objective 2: Improve visitor's perception of safety Concerns about perceived and potential real dangers due to illegal activity in Claireville was brought up at stakeholder meetings, in the survey, and was mentioned in Google reviews. An Emergency Action Plan will help to identify areas where safety can be improved in Claireville as well as procedures for emergencies. An increased staff presence at Claireville can help deter individuals from carrying out unwanted activities. This staff presence should not be limited to enforcement but could also be in terms of maintenance or programming. The intent is to create a sense that there are more people watching and invested in the area. • Recommendation 2a: Complete an Emergency Action Plan • Recommendation 2b: Investigate partnerships to increase staff and public presence. Objective 3: Improve Claireville's recognition in the local community. Two major issues identified are: (1) a lingering perception that Claireville is not accessible/welcoming to all users and (2) an overall lack of awareness of the extensive programming and recreational opportunities already available in the park. One way of addressing that public perception is to create an identity for Claireville. This would help to create a sense of place for park users and provide an umbrella under which programming could be housed. There was strong support across demographics for the development of a volunteer group to help Claireville. There have been similar groups developed in the past; however, the success of those groups have relied on consistent funding and staff capacity, in most cases linked to grants. Therefore, it is imperative that considerations for funding and staff capacity be assessed prior to the development of any new group. Alternatives to a formal group should also be considered. For example, an annual "Friends of Claireville Days" where stewardship opportunities are provided would give returning volunteers a chance to help Claireville, without the ongoing administration of a formal group. • Recommendation 3a: Create an identity for Claireville Conservation Area through the development of a marketing and communications strategy. • Recommendation 3b: Review and install clear wayfinding signage where needed. • Recommendation 3c: Link existing education and engagement programs to the upcoming marketing and communications strategy • Recommendation 3d: Investigate options for a volunteer group or network to help steward Claireville Objective 4: Improve Public Access at Claireville Public access to the park was identified as an issue with respect to access to washrooms and the lack of indoor facilities. That need for facilities will increase if additional programming and visitors increase. Construction of an indoor facility is not feasible, nor would it be consistent with the management plan, but there is an opportunity to investigate alternative uses of the Field Centre. Trails are one of the most popular amenities offered at Claireville. As part of TRCA's Trail Strategy for the Greater Toronto Region, there is an opportunity to connect existing trails to the larger regional network, which will facilitate active transportation routes that connect communities to Claireville. That work has already commenced with plans to begin construction in Claireville North in Spring 2021. • Recommendation 4a: Investigate washroom options • Recommendation 4b: Investigate opportunities for the Field Centre • Recommendation 4c: Complete inter -regional trail connecting the City of Brampton to the City of Toronto trail network. Objective 5: Investigate new, and supplement existing, programs at Claireville The investigation revealed strong interest in the expansion of existing programming at Claireville, specifically around community gardens, programs for newcomers, and the possibility of hosting festivals (where appropriate). Recommendation 5a: Consider programs for newcomers • Recommendation 5b: Explore opportunities for urban agriculture, including the lease of community gardens • Recommendation 5c: Investigate revenue generating opportunities • Recommendation 5d: Continue to investigate festivals Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan: Strategy 3 — Rethink greenspace to maximize its value Strategy 7 — Build partnerships and new business models Strategy 5 — Foster sustainable citizenship FINANCIAL DETAILS Work to undertake the development of the Activation Plan was covered by account 128-50. Funding for actions identified in the Activation Plan will be identified on an ongoing basis. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE Once review by the Regional Watershed Alliance is complete and any input considered by staff; the plan will be reviewed one last time by municipal partners and stakeholders who were integral in the development of the plan prior to finalization. Recommendations in the plan will be carried out through coordination with relevant TRCA divisions and project teams. Some recommendations will require collaboration and partnerships with external agencies, and staff will continue to seek out those opportunities as they arise. Once finalized, the Activation Plan will also be brought to the TRCA Board of Directors for endorsement. Report prepared by: Victoria Kramkowski, extension 5707; Kate Goodale, extension 5280 Emails: Victoria. Kramkowski((Dtrca.ca; kate.goodaleaotrca.ca For Information contact: Victoria Kramkowski, extension 5707 Emails: Victoria. Kramkowski(aDtrca.ca Date: February 10, 2021 Attachments: 1 Attachment 1: Claireville Conservation Area Public Use Activation Plan Attachment 2: Presentation Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Claireville Conservation Area Public Use Activ,?tif%n Plan February, 2021 CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 1. Project Purpose and Justification.......................................................................................................................1 1.1 Project Goals.....................................................................................................................................................2 1.2 Background.......................................................................................................................................................2 1.3 Business Objectives..........................................................................................................................................3 Section 2. Conservation Area Description..........................................................................................................................3 2.1 Location and Site Features...............................................................................................................................3 2.2 Current and Historic Management Plans and Implementation Plans..............................................................4 2.3 Land Uses..........................................................................................................................................................5 2.4 Surrounding Community Needs and Interests......................................................................::.........................5 2.4.1 Demographics............................................................................................................................................5 2.4.2 Needs and Interests of Surrounding Community......................................................................................6 Section 3. Existing and Historical Programming, Physical Assets and Partnerships...........................................................7 3.1 Physical assets..................................................................................................................................................7 3.1.1 Land and Asset Management....................................................................................................................7 3.1.2 Trails..........................................................................................................................................................8 3.1.3 Recreational Facilities and Infrastructure.................................................................................................8 3.1.4 Restoration............................................................................................................................................. 10 3.1.5 Flood Risk Management......................................................................................................................... 11 3.2 TRCA Outreach, Engagement, and Education Programs............................................................................... 11 3.3 Previous and proposed uses and partnerships............................................................................................. 12 3.4 External programming, events, activities and agreements........................................................................... 15 3.4.1 Tenant Initiatives.................................................................................................................................... 15 3.4.2 External Partnerships............................................................................................................................. 16 Section 4. Investigation of Current Uses, Needs, and Opportunities...............................................................................17 4.1 Research Questions....................................................................................................................................... 17 4.2 Method One: Semi -structured Interviews/Meetings.................................................................................... 17 4.3 Results One: Semi -structured Interviews/Meetings..................................................................................... 18 4.4 Method Two: Survey ............................ ......................... ................................................................................ 20 4.4.1 Delivery Method..................................................................................................................................... 20 4.5 Results Two: Survey....................................................................................................................................... 21 4.6 Method Three: Google Analytics................................................................................................................... 28 Toronto and Region Conservation Authority I i CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 4.6.1 Online Reviews....................................................................................................................................... 28 4.6.2 Analysis................................................................................................................................................... 29 Section5. Recommendations...........................................................................................................................................30 Section6. Conclusion........................................................................................................................................................38 Appendix 1: Survey Instruments and Additional Information on Survey Goals..............................................................39 Appendix2: Charts and Tables.........................................................................................................................................41 Appendix3: Google Reviews............................................................................................................................................50 The information contained in this document is copyright © Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Toronto and Region Conservation Authority I ii CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 4X411119 Eel LINE ]:toalX41111111'11101i11STA ►11�ll14111aWA000I Claireville Conservation Area ("Claireville") is a unique, valuable and desirable greenspace located within a highly urbanized setting. This 848 -hectare park is located primarily in the City of Brampton, with a small portion (19 hectares) falling within the City of Toronto, and with both City of Mississauga and City of Vaughan immediately adjacent. Claireville is currently operating under a passive operating model, without regular staff, gate admissions, and supporting comfort services. Despite that "passive" model, the park offers a multitude of recreational opportunities and attracts both regular and intermittent users. In the past, Claireville was predominantly agricultural land, with limited development nearby. In recent decades however, significant industrial, commercial and residential development has occurred around Claireville, increasing the potential for public use of the site, as well as the importance of offering and properly utilizing a large greenspace in an urban area. Public interest has spurred Toronto and Region Conservation Authority ("TRCA") efforts to explore how Claireville can be activated to better support the needs and desires of the community and current and potential users of Claireville, as well as fulfill TRCA's mandate. As a result, TRCA has developed the Claireville Public Use Activation Plan ("Activation Plan") to lay out the groundwork for activating Claireville. These efforts align with TRCA's Building The Living City - Our 10 -year Strategic Plan through the following: • As TRCA develops and carries out creative and innovative approaches to maximize the value of TRCA lands and greenspace, the desire exists to make more of Claireville a safe and welcoming greenspace accessible to the surrounding population and other visitors (item 3.1); • Claireville's urban location offers the opportunity to introduce community members to TRCA lands, initiatives and values, as well as create opportunities to invest in, and update, existing onsite infrastructure (items 4.2, and 5.1); CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx • New and increased programming and infrastructure at Claireville could open the site to new business models with complementary partners and the community (items 7.1 and 7.3); • These partnerships can ensure efficiencies in project/program delivery, as well as offer innovative programming that fits the needs of visitors and creates value and opportunities for the surrounding community (item 5.3, 6.1, and 6.3) 1.1 Project Goals The intent of the Claireville Activation Plan is to increase and enhance public engagement and business opportunities surrounding Claireville, while building upon the existing Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan Update (2012) and respecting Claireville's current focus on ecological restoration and passive recreation. The Claireville Activation Plan will lay the groundwork to fulfill the following goals: • Activate Claireville Conservation Area through improved public perception and use of the site; • Improve the public's connection to, and use of, Claireville through new and existing partnerships and programs; and • Align the activation of Claireville with TRCA's strategic priorities and the existing Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan The term "activation" can be interpreted in multiple ways. To achieve activation, the recommendations in this plan seek to achieve that: • Visitors feel that Claireville is an open, safe and welcoming site. The care that TRCA and relevant partners have for Claireville is evident, as is their efforts to both make the public comfortable and protect ecological values. • The surrounding community becomes "active owners" of Claireville. This means that the community feels a sense of ownership of, and responsibility for, Claireville and is engaged in its care, management and programming. • Existing and new programming is offered at Claireville. Programming fits the needs and desires of the local community and other visitors. Programming offered at Claireville aligns with TRCA's values and priorities. • Programming, services and infrastructure can be offered by TRCA and/or other partners. Collaborating with partners should result in some, or all, of the following: innovative partnership structures; efficiency of resources; more appropriate or interesting programming and events; reduced burden on TRCA staff time and resources; and economic, cultural, social or environmental benefits to the community and surrounding neighbourhood. • Appropriate facilities are available that complement the passive use focus of Claireville, while supporting visitors and programming • It is acknowledged that activation involves both short- and long-term goals and actions The Claireville Activation Plan will provide a ready foundation from which TRCA, partners and the community can begin implementing short- and long-term goals to activate Claireville and create a safe, open environment for visitors. 1.2 Background TRCA staff completed the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan Update ("Management Plan Update") in 2012, which lays out the most recent overarching priorities and direction for the management of Claireville. The Management Plan Update includes an emphasis on ecological restoration of the site and passive use. TRCA then endorsed the Claireville Conservation Area Land Management Implementation Plan ('the Implementation Plan") in CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 2015 to further direct priority implementation projects. The Activation Plan is intended to align with the direction and priorities laid out in the Management Plan Update and the Implementation Plan. Several efforts have been made to activate Claireville in the past. In 1996 TRCA's Board of Directors, hosted a Claireville Technical Advisory Committee, which examined potential initiatives for Claireville and the development of a management plan for the conservation area. The former Humber Watershed Alliance, a multi -stakeholder advisory group was instrumental in working with TRCA and partners to implement the Humber Watershed Management Plan - Legacy: A Strategy for a Healthy Humber. In 2007, TRCA staff was directed to work with approximately 60 other interested agencies and organizations in the Claireville Leadership Adventure Conservation (CLAC) Partnership to explore programming partnerships. However, these efforts did not result in the desired activation of the site (a more detailed outline of previous activities and programs in Claireville can be found in Section 3 - Existing and Historical Programs, Physical Assets, and Partnerships). In September 2018, a delegation was made to the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA Meeting #3/18) to request that TRCA staff and RWA members explore the activation of Claireville. 1.3 Business Objectives The corporate direction of TRCA is guided by Building The Living City - Our 10 -year Strategic Plan that establishes the framework for our programs. It provides twelve enabling and leadership strategies towards achieving our corporate vision of The Living City. The reactivation of Claireville ties into the strategies and associated commitments including: • Achieving the most appropriate use of TRCA's inventory of lands and facilities while respecting natural and cultural heritage; • Investing in aging infrastructure across TRCA's Conservation Areas; • Restoring and providing more accessible greenspace; • Offering open space opportunities as part of complete communities that benefit community members; • More frequent engagement by community members in nature -based educational and recreational activities; • Strong community leadership in, and ownership of, sustainability initiatives; and • Reflection of the diversity of the Toronto region in TRCA programs. SECTION 2. CONSERVATION AREA DESCRIPTION 2.1 Location and Site Features Claireville Conservation Area is an 848 -hectare (2100 acre) parcel of TRCA-owned land situated in the Humber River Watershed, where Salt Creek converges into the West Humber River. The land was secured in the 1950s. Included in this parcel is the Claireville Reservoir, Indian Line Campground, Wet'n Wild Water Park, a 98 -hectare parcel of land formally known as the "Ebenezer Resource Management Tract" (located north of Regional Road 107 and bounded by McVean Drive and Goreway Drive to the east and west respectively), and the formal conservation area between Steeles Avenue and Peel Regional Road 107 (Queen St). The majority of Claireville is in Peel Region within the City of Brampton, with a small portion (19 Ha) within the City of Toronto. Both the City of Vaughan (York Region) and Mississauga (Region of Peel) are immediately adjacent to the conservation area. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx FIGURE 1: CLAIREVILLE CONSERVATION AREA MAP (MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE 2012) 2.2 Current and Historic Management Plans and Implementation Plans Over the better part of the 20th century until present day, several management plans, project proposals, and strategies have been put into place to guide the management of the site. Previously, Claireville was identified as one of the most important destinations in the Greater Toronto Area for recreation and interpretive activities in the 1964 Claireville Master Plan, the 1980 MTRCA Watershed Plan, the 1989 MTRCA Greenspace Strategy for the Greater Toronto Area, and the 1996 Humber Watershed Strategy. The previous management plan (1997) was updated in 2012. This management plan still recognizes the important recreation opportunities offered by the conservation area and provides guidance for park management under an ecosystem approach that prioritizes ecological enhancement and preservation. The management plan divides the conservation area into nine management zones. The division of these zones prioritizes habitat: 82% of the property is designated in one of three related categories: Nature Reserve, Natural Environment, or Primary Restoration. Recommendations focus on maintaining and improving the natural ecosystem health of the conservation area and continuing low to moderate public use. This focus, however, does not preclude new partnerships and public engagement opportunities but does provide scope for acceptable use. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Vision Statement of Current Claireville Management Plan (updated 2012) Claireville Conservation Area is an oasis for wildlife and people—a healthy, diverse urban forest and one of the largest natural corridors in a major city region. It is a destination where the natural and cultural heritage resources are protected and restored through partnerships and community-based stewardship. Visitors enjoy year-round nature -based recreation and education experiences while respecting the unique environmental features. -2012 Management Plan Update 2.3 Land Uses The Humber River was designated a Canadian Heritage River due to its significant cultural history. While the West Humber River tributary was not formally recognized as part of this designation, there is still significant cultural history to be found in this area. Prior to European settlement, the Humber River was used as a route connecting Lake Ontario to the Lake Simcoe watershed and beyond. This route, known as the Carrying Place Trail, became a key route for trade between Indigenous groups, and later with European settlers. After European settlement, the land was used for agriculture. Since the acquisition of the property in the 1950s, TRCA has been working to restore the forest and meadow habitats that existed pre -contact. In addition to restoration work, various public initiatives are offered at the site (see Section 3). Furthermore, Claireville currently hosts an urban farm, a horseback riding ranch, and a waterpark. Movie shoots frequently take place at the site and the park is utilized by trail users, dog walkers, and other members of the public. Claireville is also home to the historic Wiley bowstring bridge, the historic McVean Barn, and a dam and reservoir, all of which require restoration and improvements. The portion of Claireville north of Highway 407 and Steeles Ave is currently operating as a conservation greenspace and as such, facilities and services are limited. 2.4 Surrounding Community Needs and Interests The following section provides an overview of the demographics of the area surrounding Claireville 2.4.1 Demographics The City of Brampton is one of the fastest growing communities in the GTA; since 2011, Brampton's population has increased by 13.3%.1 It is also home to a relatively young population - the average age is 36.5 years (compared to Ontario's mean age of 41), with ages 0-14 comprising 20% of the population, ages 15-54 comprising 57% of the population and over 55 comprising 22% of the population.' In 2019, Environics data was compiled for the postal codes immediately surrounding the conservation area. Within that area there are 965,098 individuals and 274,374 households. The average household income is $111,884 with ' City of Brampton. 2019. Population & Dwelling. Accessed from: https://geohub.brampton.ca/pages/profile- pop-dwelling ' City of Brampton. 2019. Age & Sex. Accessed from: https://geohub.bra mpton.ca/pages/profile-age-sex CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 74.4% of residents residing in detached houses. Cars are the main mode of transportation, with only 15% of residents citing they use public transit to go to work. The region is also home to a substantial portion of new Canadians, with 54% of the population identifying as immigrants, 5% citing no knowledge of English, and 73% belonging to a visible minority group (of that group, 42% are South Asian). 2.4.2 Needs and Interests of Surrounding Community Table 1 represents the self-reported interest in a variety of activities among residents surrounding Claireville collected through Environics. A large proportion are interested in activities that are directly relevant to Claireville such as jogging and walking. This demographic data suggests that there are increasing needs in the surrounding community for programs and facilities that are diverse in language and culture, and that target growing families. There is an interest in outdoor activities (as suggested by the reporting in leisure and sport activities, Table 1) and as the community continues to grow, the demand for outdoor green space will increase. Claireville represents an opportunity to meet those needs. Further needs and interests of the surrounding community were assessed via a survey (2019), the results of which are discussed in Section 4. TABLE 1: LOCAL COMMUNITY INTERESTS FROM ENVIRONICS DATA (2019) Activity Category Activity Proportion of Interested Population Local Attractions & Destinations Theme Parks 28.2% Indoor Amusement Centres 11.5% Zoo/Aquarium 28.2% Dancing/Night Club 8.5% Professional Sports Basketball 14.6% Hockey 21.4% Baseball 29.0% Soccer 9.7% Concert & Theatre Venues Casinos 13.2% Areas 33.7% Outdoor Stages 9.0% Theatre Other 7.2% Individual Sports Snowboarding 7.5% Billiards/Pool 31.1% Inline Skating 6.4% Racquet Sports 15.8% Team Sports Football 9.6% Soccer 19.3% CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx SECTION 3. EXISTING AND HISTORICAL PROGRAMMING, PHYSICAL ASSETS AND PARTNERSHIPS 3.1 Physical assets There are numerous physical assets in Claireville, from habitat restoration sites to tenant properties, to recreational facilities. The following section provides an overview of all those assets and a summary of TRCA-led management of those assets from 2011 until 2019. 3.1.1 Land and Asset Management Table 2 summarizes the work completed between 2011 and 2019 to manage the conservation area and tenant properties. TABLE 2: LAND AND ASSET MANAGEMENT WORKS Project/Initiative Basketball 19.7% Baseball/Softball 19.3% Activities Ice Skating 33.5% Power Boating/Jet Skiing 10.0% Fishing/Hunting 23.3% Art/Crafts 40.2% Fitness Jogging 33.5% Home Exercise 60.1% Fitness Classes 33.1% Fitness Walking 49.1% SECTION 3. EXISTING AND HISTORICAL PROGRAMMING, PHYSICAL ASSETS AND PARTNERSHIPS 3.1 Physical assets There are numerous physical assets in Claireville, from habitat restoration sites to tenant properties, to recreational facilities. The following section provides an overview of all those assets and a summary of TRCA-led management of those assets from 2011 until 2019. 3.1.1 Land and Asset Management Table 2 summarizes the work completed between 2011 and 2019 to manage the conservation area and tenant properties. TABLE 2: LAND AND ASSET MANAGEMENT WORKS Project/Initiative Projects implemented 2011-2019 Site securement and • Identified and removed encroachments throughout property protection • Installed 1030 metres of fence and 2 gates • Installed entrance gate from Gorewood Drive • Prepared for land inventory and audit report • Blocked vehicle access from Gorewood Drive • Installed a kiosk at Queen Street and Gorewood Drive parking lots • Removed garbage and repaired fencing • Developed parking area at the Regional Road 107 (Queen Street) trail head Land management • Constructed installed 49 post markers for wayfinding through property • Removed 192 hazardous trees along trails to eliminate hazards on existing authorized trail system • Prepared structural assessment report for the Claireville Barn CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 3.1.2 Trails There is a broad network of trails throughout the Claireville property. These trails include an interregional trail that connects Brampton trails into the City of Toronto, and secondary trails throughout the formal conservation area. Work on these trails is summarized in Table 3. TABLE 3: TRAIL WORKS Project/Initiative • Completed initial rehabilitation of the McVean Barn with the Interregional Trail construction of a water diversion channel and securement of the structure Secondary trails • Decommissioned three old wells • Constructed the trail head parking lot at Regional Road 107 access • Reconditioned, compacted, and filled Gorewood and Highway 50 parking lot • Repaired post and paddle fencing at Highway 50 parking lot • Removed structures at Claireville Ranch and portable classroom, and carried out site restoration and re -naturalization • Manure storage facility constructed • Removed almost 9500 kilograms of debris McVean Farm • Continued use of the farm site as an incubator farm. In 2011 a 110 -acre parcel located at Ebenezer and McVean was added to accommodate more farm participants. • Completed barn improvements and securement, including downspout and siding repairs Robinson house • In 2017 the former Robinson House was leased under a commercial lease agreement. 3.1.2 Trails There is a broad network of trails throughout the Claireville property. These trails include an interregional trail that connects Brampton trails into the City of Toronto, and secondary trails throughout the formal conservation area. Work on these trails is summarized in Table 3. TABLE 3: TRAIL WORKS Project/Initiative Projects implemented 2011-2019 Interregional Trail • Ongoing work to link trails between the City of Toronto and City of Brampton Secondary trails • Prepared secondary trail plan • Completed visitor monitoring and survey through online and in-person trail user surveys and an electronic trail counter program • Inventoried 50 kilometres of trails • Built 3.1 kilometres of trails and 360 metres of boardwalk • Installed 2 trail head kiosks and signs • Installed secondary wayfindingsystem attrail junctions. • Upgraded 8.5 kilometres of trail to an amended surface trail (natural parent soil mixed with gravel to make a better trail surface) 3.1.3 Recreational Facilities and Infrastructure There are two public use areas actively managed by TRCA: the formal conservation area, and Indian Line Campground. The management plan prioritizes passive use by the public for the conservation area portion of the site. Table 4 summarizes the work, including infrastructure -related projects, complete to date for these two facilities. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx TABLE 4: RECREATIONAL AREAS MAINTENANCE WORKS Project/Initiative Projects implemented 2011-2019 Claireville Conservation 0 Improved City of Toronto and City of Brampton day camp sites Area (Central Area • Regraded and compacted 1.1 kilometres of road between Hwy 50 • Installed new property sign at Regional Road 107 entrance entrance and Hwy a Completed erosion control work on the roadway adjacent to Humber 7/Queen entrance) River • Installed 1 culvert Undertook ongoing risk management mitigation • Completed property promotion/marketing for filming purposes (Ontario Media Development Corporation OMDC website) • Armour stone placement in and around Highway 50 parking lot to prevent vehicular access. Boulder placement behind Gorewood entrance gate to prevent vehicular access. Hazard tree removal and Ash tree removal. • Information kiosks at the Highway 50 and Gorewood entrances • Water line repairs throughout. Installed new property sign at Highway 50. Indian Line Campground • Carried out Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (OPTED) (est. 1973) Security Audit through Peel Region Police Seeded 120 square metres • Installed 70 directional and campground signs • Retrofitted two buildings to improve accessibility, and installed energy efficient showers, sinks, washrooms and doorways • Installed 1700 square feet of metal roof at pool building • Improved 530 square metres of road • Replaced 20 building mounted and 25 streetlights, using LED and photocells • Installed 8 roof mounted solar panels • Installed 30 metre drainage naturalization project • New entrance gates to the facility. 2020 • New access gates to the work yard. 2020 • 12 new metal doors for the 3 washroom buildings. • The ramp to the camp store was replaced and was made to be accessible. Waterproofing of the pool building foundation. Replaced the existing concrete walkway on north side of the pool building and replaced a portion of the concrete pool deck after the waterproofing. Added a section of concrete walkway to the east side of the pool building. • Replaced the concrete walkway around the campground office. Replaced the pool liner. • Replaced 8 washers and 8 driers in our laundry facility. • Replaced the transformers in the campground. Including the breaker panels in the 3 washroom buildings. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx • Replaced the woodchips in the playground. • Replaced the windows and doors in the campground office. • Installed a heat pump in the camp store. • Replaced the windows in the camp store. • Replaced the hot water tank in the office and Humber washroom. • Installed an outer cladding to the Humber and Poplar washroom buildings. • Replaced the ventilation fan units on the Humber and Poplar washroom buildings. • Installation of 6 security cameras, 1 in the office, 4 in the and around the camp store and 1 at the Dump Station. 3.1.4 Restoration Restoration and management of Claireville's natural habitats, including forests, streams, wetlands, meadows as well as targeted fish and wildlife habitat has been an ongoing priority. Table 5 provides a summary of restoration activities carried out between 2011 and 2019. TABLE 5: RESTORATION WORKS Project/Initiative Projects implemented 2011-2019 Ecological Restoration • Over 100 000 trees and shrubs planted and Management • 45 hectares of forest habitat restored • 9 hectares of wetland habitat created or restored • 2919 metres and 7 hectares of riparian habitat restored • 9 hectares of meadow habitat restored • 1109 metres of stream restoration • 1 aquatic barrier mitigated • 9 hectares of forest management thinning • 125 hectares of forest management inventory • Strategic invasive species management West Claireville buffer • Completed topsoil placement project berm a Phased reforestation of the berm (Hwy 50 Entrance) Community -Based • Multiple community events are held throughout the year with the Restoration Events general public, schools, and corporate groups. These events include native tree and shrub plantings, invasive species management activities, litter clean-ups, and monitoring and maintaining restoration sites. Between 2011 and 2019 over 40 events have been held that engaged over 2100 participants who planted more than 4500 native trees and shrubs. • Earth Day planting events co -hosted with City of Brampton • Hwy 50 Meadow Planting with members of the Regional Watershed Alliance 0 Litter clean up events with the general public and local schools CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 3.1.5 Flood Risk Management Maintenance of the Claireville Dam is an ongoing priority for TRCA. A Dam Safety Review of Claireville Dam was carried out in 2016 and identified the need for several improvements, including designing and rebuilding the spillway to pass extreme events, enlarging the spillway to prevent erosion, repairing the dam wingwall, rebuilding the gate system and undertaking corrosion repair work. TABLE 6: FLOOD INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS Project/Initiative Projects and programs implemented 2011-2019 Dam Safety/Flood Risk Completed Dam Safety Review at Claireville Dam (2016). Management • Following a significant storm on July 13th 2013, the reservoir was drawn down to a lower level to accommodate the increased precipitation. In the fall of 2013, the decision was made to keep the reservoir at the lower level to maximize flood storage at the dam. This decision, made for safety reasons, means that the historic "recreational' water level of the dam can no longer be safely maintained without significant and costly work done to the dam structure. 3.2 TRCA Outreach, Engagement, and Education Programs Claireville has always been an important site for recreation and engagement for both TRCA and the surrounding community. Table 7 provides a list of the current activities and programs that occur in the conservation area. TABLE 7: OUTREACH EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY RESTORATION PROGRAMS Project/Initiative Projects and programs implemented 2011-2019 Seasonal Nature Hikes 0 Multiple events are scheduled throughout the year, from guided walks, to interpretive education programs, and community planting events. • TreeCaching Trail program, a smartphone-based tree identification self -guided walk • Snowshoes and Snow -Clues, a program for the general public to learn how to snowshoe and about animal tracks and adaptations • Hoot and Howl, a program for the general public to learn about owls and coyotes. Activities include interactive games and an evening walk calling for these animals. • Park in the Dark hike, an evening walk learning about nocturnal animals with fun activities. • Farm tours of the McVean Farm for the general public to learn about the McVean Farm and the importance of local food and urban agriculture Youth Opportunities 0 Conservation Youth Corp program assists with trail restoration and phragmites removal • Nikibii Dawadinna Giligwag, the Indigenous youth program, helped invasive species mapping CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 3.3 Previous and proposed uses and partnerships Over the years there have been a multitude of attempted and successful partnerships between TRCA and different groups to undertake programming in Claireville. These different initiatives utilized partnerships between TRCA, the community, and other municipalities/agencies/organizations. Not all proposals that were brought forward (both by TRCA and by external groups) were implemented. Of those that were initiated, partnerships and initiatives linked to existing funding, whether through a granting body, or the securement of capital funds, were the most successful. Claireville Subcommittee West Humber Subcommittee (i.e., Claireville Subcommittee) of the Humber Watershed Alliance (a former TRCA citizen advisory group) was established to focus on assisting TRCA with implementing the watershed plan in the West Humber subwatershed. The Subcommittee was administered by TRCA and was comprised of members from: • Architectural Conservancy of Ontario • Elected officials from the Cities of Brampton, Mississauga, and Toronto • Friends of Claireville • Residents from Brampton, Caledon, Toronto and Vaughan • West Humber Naturalists The Subcommittee reviewed the 1997 Management Plan and made the primary suggestions to remove the "Commercial Management Zone" on Regional Road 107 (Queen Street) and avoid trail impacts on interior forest habitat. The Claireville Subcommittee was dissolved along with the Humber Watershed Alliance in 2015 as TRCA embarked on developing a new citizen governance model as part of TRCA's Community Engagement Strategy (2017). Friends of Claireville The Friends of Claireville (FOC) was a volunteer group formed in 1999, who sought to educate the public about environmental issues and to engage the community in environmental stewardship activities at Claireville Conservation Area. Joint initiatives included community plantings (over 20,000 trees planted to date), clean-ups, • Peel Planet Day, a stewardship and education event for 250 Region of Peel high school student • Drop-in programs for participants at Camp Claireville Educational Events • Crawling Crayfish, a program for the general public to collect the benthic invertebrates, learn what makes a healthy watershed and our connection with them. Citizen Science Initiatives • Frog Watch, a program for the public to learn about how to identify frogs by their unique calls. Observations are submitted to Frog Watch App. • All About Bats, a program for the general public to learn how these creatures navigate at night and listen for some flying above using a bat detector. That data is then shared with TRCA's monitoring team. Farm Events • Farm operators have hosted farm open houses and fundraisers for the farm during the farm season. 3.3 Previous and proposed uses and partnerships Over the years there have been a multitude of attempted and successful partnerships between TRCA and different groups to undertake programming in Claireville. These different initiatives utilized partnerships between TRCA, the community, and other municipalities/agencies/organizations. Not all proposals that were brought forward (both by TRCA and by external groups) were implemented. Of those that were initiated, partnerships and initiatives linked to existing funding, whether through a granting body, or the securement of capital funds, were the most successful. Claireville Subcommittee West Humber Subcommittee (i.e., Claireville Subcommittee) of the Humber Watershed Alliance (a former TRCA citizen advisory group) was established to focus on assisting TRCA with implementing the watershed plan in the West Humber subwatershed. The Subcommittee was administered by TRCA and was comprised of members from: • Architectural Conservancy of Ontario • Elected officials from the Cities of Brampton, Mississauga, and Toronto • Friends of Claireville • Residents from Brampton, Caledon, Toronto and Vaughan • West Humber Naturalists The Subcommittee reviewed the 1997 Management Plan and made the primary suggestions to remove the "Commercial Management Zone" on Regional Road 107 (Queen Street) and avoid trail impacts on interior forest habitat. The Claireville Subcommittee was dissolved along with the Humber Watershed Alliance in 2015 as TRCA embarked on developing a new citizen governance model as part of TRCA's Community Engagement Strategy (2017). Friends of Claireville The Friends of Claireville (FOC) was a volunteer group formed in 1999, who sought to educate the public about environmental issues and to engage the community in environmental stewardship activities at Claireville Conservation Area. Joint initiatives included community plantings (over 20,000 trees planted to date), clean-ups, CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx guided hikes and other community events for families, seniors, youth and new Canadians. The FOC was also an active group on the Humber Watershed Alliance. The Friends of Claireville dissolved following the completion of the Claireville Community Stewardship Project in 2008. Claireville Community Stewardship Project (CCSP) In 2006, TRCA was granted $100,500 in financial support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to support the Claireville Community Stewardship Project (CCSP). The goal of the CCSP was to strengthen the organizational structure and capacity of the Friends of Claireville and to foster awareness, build community and restore the ecological health of the Claireville Conservation Area. The project included hands-on environmental stewardship programs that provided youth, adults, community and business leaders with the knowledge and tools required to help revitalize and care for the watershed's natural resources. As of June 30th, 2008, all workplans associated with the CCSP were completed as outlined in the Ontario Trillium Foundation Proposal and Funding Agreement. Over the three-year project the CCSP • Organized and implemented 6 community planting events, planting over 3,500 native trees and shrubs. • Delivered 14 habitat enhancement projects that included the installation of 75 songbird boxes, 8 Wood Duck nesting boxes, log fish cribs, removed invasive species and the planting of over 400 aquatic plants. • Established tree monitoring plots to monitor tree health on newly and recently planted sites using established and accepted protocols. • Delivered 8 community educational workshops /seminars. • Organized and implemented 3 community shoreline clean -up events, removing over 2,500 lbs of garbage. • Developed and successfully launched the Claireville Stewards in the Field Program • Developed communication and marketing materials for The CCSP and the Friends of Claireville including two displays, project Fact sheets, newsletters, event flyers, and portable signage. • Organized and implemented a Fishing Festival at the Claireville Reservoir. • Installed two Trailhead Kiosks at the Regional Road 107 and Highway 50 entrances • Installed all- access fishing and canoe dock at the Claireville Reservoir Core funding for the CCSP was provided by Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) in the amount of $100,500. The project also received funding from the Region of Peel in the amount of $100,000. Additional funding for this project was provided by: • Shell Environmental Fund ($4,500); • Community Fisheries/Wildlife Involvement Program ($3,000); and • In -kind support from community volunteers ($56,000) In total, the Claireville Community Stewardship Project raised over $264,000 and was completed in 2008 Claireville Leadership Adventure Conservation (CLAC) Partnership In 2005, a proposal was submitted to TRCA's Business Excellence Advisory Board (RES.#C57/05) to create a Claireville Leadership Adventure Conservation (CLAC) Partnership. The idea was proposed by staff from the City of Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department as an opportunity for external groups to develop, operate and generally benefit from each other's strengths and recreation programs at Claireville Conservation Area. The objective was to provide a coordinated approach amongst interested groups to use the site. It was envisioned that the partnership arrangement would facilitate the cooperative sharing of collective natural and recreational resources between the groups. Cost sharing of some common needs, such as toilets, parking and storage CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx could also take place. This partnership would facilitate communication between the user groups to minimize conflicts and maximize opportunities for cross promotion. The values of the groups involved in the CLAC would include respect for other user groups and the environment. It was anticipated that spin-offs from this partnership could include potential community economic development opportunities, outreach to the surrounding new immigrant and low- income communities, and experiential learning opportunities for everyone. After a preliminary meeting with some interested groups and TRCA senior staff, it was decided that a larger meeting was necessary to determine who would be interested in joining a federation of partners to carry this concept forward. An initial meeting was held in August 2004 where 90 individuals from over 60 organizations, representing a wide variety of outdoor recreation organizations including canoeing, fishing, archery, orienteering, camping, municipal parks and recreation, scouts, and others, were invited. Twenty-one individuals, representing external recreation providers, attended this initial meeting. Six meetings were held in total between August 2004 and April 2005. A draft business plan and terms of reference was developed, which included timelines and possible recreational uses at Claireville by the partners. Funding and staff capacity to support the business plan was not secured, and as a result the Claireville Leadership Adventure Partnership was never fully developed. Yeoman Rugby Club The former Peachy residence is one of the historic cultural features of Claireville. For many years it was not used and fell into disrepair. In 1996, the Yeoman Rugby Club renovated the residence and used it as their club house. Rugby fields were constructed on 1.2 Ha of former agricultural fields. The lease and agreement have since ended. Chinguacousy (sometimes spelled "Chiquacousy") Snowmobile Club A 2.8 Ha parcel of land in the north west part of the Ebeneezer Tract was leased to the Chinguacousy Snowmobile Club. The lease ended prior to the development of the management plan update in 2012. Historic Proposals and Documents for the CA There have been numerous management plans, master plans, and land -use proposals for Claireville over the years. The preceding section has outlined some of the most recent documents. Prior to the most recent management plan, the following plans and proposals were developed: • 1964 Claireville Master Plan • 1982 Claireville Master Plan • 1984 Water Park Master Plan • 1985 Golf Course proposal (submitted to TRCA, was not implemented) • 1988 Greenspace Concept Development Plan • 1989 Golf Course proposal (submitted to TRCA, was not implemented) • 1990 Master Planning Study • 1990 Olympic Equestrian Centre Proposal (submitted by Horse Park Corporation, was not implemented) • 1994 Claireville Trail Project • 1996 Ontario Golf Association Course Proposal (submitted to TRCA, was not implemented) • 1997 Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan • 2007 Heritage Trail Proposal (submitted by Architectural Conservancy of Ontario, Brampton Branch) • 2012 Management Plan Update CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 3.4 External programming, events, activities and agreements In addition to the programs offered by TRCA, there are several partner -led initiatives held in Claireville. 3.4.1 Tenant Initiatives Agricultural Properties McVean Farm is Brampton's oldest farm and was once owned by early settler Alexander McVean. The double English Wheat Barn that McVean and his family built there in the 1840s still stands today and is designated a "Category A" heritage resource by the City of Brampton. The McVean Incubator Farm began in 2008 as a pilot urban agriculture project with FarmStart as the operator. The historic McVean Farm site was leased to FarmStart from 2008 to 2016 to train and support new farmers. In 2017, TRCA took over operation of the farm site and administered individual lease agreements with participants of the Incubator Farm. In 2020 TRCA transitioned to a new farm operator who is responsible for operating the McVean Incubator Farm. McVean Incubator Farm participants have access to land, shared infrastructure, water, and training opportunities. This site and incubator model provide an opportunity for new farmers from non -farming backgrounds, new Canadians and second career farmers to establish their farm enterprises. The site has capacity for up to 20 farm participants, depending on the scale of their operation, background and expertise. These participants are operating small-scale farm enterprises that provide local food to markets throughout the GTA. TRCA is also in the process of developing an agreement with City of Brampton to provide land at McVean Farm for community gardens, with the intention that the City of Brampton will begin operations of the community gardens in 2021. Claireville Ranch This small facility, operated by a private company, opened to the public in 1984. It offers private instruction and public horseback riding through an extensive network of trails. The barn that existed on site before TRCA acquired the property is included in the lease. As well, TRCA constructed a saddle house for use by the Ranch. The Ranch is leased on an annual basis. Residential Properties Two residential properties continue to be leased to tenants. Wet'n' Wild (previously Wild Water Kingdom) Wild Water Kingdom was built on 45 Ha of land adjacent to the former Claireville beach area, to the north of Indian Line Campground. The facility, constructed by a private company, opened in 1989 under the name "Sunshine Beach", later adopting the name "Wild Water Kingdom" in the early 1990s. Construction of the water park initially cost approximately $5 million. At the centre of the water park is a large wave pool, a lazy river ride and over seven water slides. There is also a children's water play area, waterfalls, ponds, hot tubs, showers, arcades, sports fields, miniature golf, refreshments and gift shops, and a large picnic area. Wild Water Kingdom closed in 2014 and re -opened under new management with the name "Wet'n' Wild" in 2017. Etobicoke Field Centre CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx The original Education Centre used by the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) was located at the corner of Steeles Avenue and Gorewood Drive but was demolished when Highway 407 was built. In 1992 the new facility was built by TRCA using revenue generated through the sale of the Highway 407 land. The Field Centre is now located near the Highway 50 entrance to Claireville. Historically, a low maintenance group camping area located to the north east of the Education Centre was used by the Field Centre, but that site is no longer operational. Until the 2019/2020 school year, the Field Centre ran programming for TDSB students throughout the school year, servicing a variety of ages. In the past, they also ran a summer Eco Leadership Camp for students in grades 3, 4 and 5, which incorporated ecological literacy into active outdoor learning to promote leadership and stewardship through Global Competencies, and included a variety of hands-on activities in the natural environment. The Field Centre was vacated by the TDSB for the 2019/2020 school year due to budget considerations. TRCA is currently exploring alternative uses for this site and will issue an Expression of Interest in 2021 in an effort to facilitate future partnership opportunities. 3.4.2 External Partnerships Day Camps The City of Toronto operates a summer day camp at Claireville. This camp includes activities for children aged 6 to 16, with a range of programming including crafts, hiking, archery, French immersion, babysitting certification, sports, drama, and horseback riding. The Learning Enrichment Foundation extended their existing day camp program to include regular visits to Claireville during the summer of 2019. This program targeted children and youth from the City of Toronto who have limited opportunity to spend time outdoors. In 2008 the City of Brampton explored a partnership with TRCA for a summer camp. The camp ran for two summers but was deemed no longer feasible and the partnership ended. Filming Location Like several other TRCA sites, the conservation area is used extensively for film productions. This is the most significant revenue generating activity in the park to date. Over recent years, eight to ten films or television shows per year are filmed at Claireville. Timing, duration, number of film productions and associated busy times vary widely. TRCA requires that filming locations are carefully selected so as not to permanently affect the site's ecology. TRCA also requires that production companies fully restore sites they use to pre -filming conditions. Furthermore, revenues generated from filming is used to support the continued maintenance and enhancement of the park and TRCA's work. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx SECTION 4. INVESTIGATION OF CURRENT USES, NEEDS, AND OPPORTUNITIES An investigation of current park uses, community needs, and both existing and future opportunities was undertaken to determine the most relevant recommendations for the Claireville Public Use Activation Plan. The following section summarizes this research process. 4.1 Research Questions The following research questions were used to develop the activation plan: 1. Are stakeholders familiar with Claireville? 2. What are stakeholder perceptions of Claireville? 3. What public demands exist regarding greenspace that Claireville could satisfy? 4. What opportunities exist at Claireville, or can be developed, to increase use of the site? 5. What priorities or uses do stakeholders value Claireville for? This research was carried out in two phases: (1) semi -structured interviews and meetings with key stakeholders; (2) utilizing the results of the consultation to develop and administer a quantitative survey to Claireville users and the surrounding community; and (3) conducting a review of online analytics and feedback associated with Claireville. 4.2 Method One: Semi -structured Interviews/Meetings Meetings were carried out over the Spring of 2019. These initial meetings introduced the Claireville Public Use Activation Plan concept and initiated a discussion around each of the four research questions. Specific themes were identified from the data collected. TABLE 8: STAKEHOLDERS INTERVIEWED Internal to TRCA External Stakeholders Community Stakeholders • Property and Risk Management • City of Brampton 0 City of Toronto • Boys and Girls Club of Peel CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx • Restoration and • City of Vaughan • Bramalea Network Infrastructure • Peel Region Police • Springdale Network • Education and • Peel Region Health • Regional Watershed Training • Region of Peel Alliance • Planning and Planning • Former CLAC Development members • Parks and Culture 4.3 Results One: Semi -structured Interviews/Meetings Several common themes emerged from these discussions, which were categorized into four broad categories: Facilities, Infrastructure and Operations; Management Structure; Programming; and Market Analysis. Facilities Infrastructure and Operations Notable themes that emerged in this category include trails, accessibility, washrooms, parking, and safety. Specifically: • There is desire among the groups consulted to improve public accessibility to Claireville, emphasizing the Inter -Regional Trail so that the different municipalities can be connected through active transportation routes. • The opportunity for trail connections, including the opportunity to connect to the Riverstone Golf Course property, the sale of which is currently under negotiation with the City of Brampton. • The issue of dogs off -leash was consistently brought up at every meeting, as well as the associated need for enforcement. • Stakeholders have noted illegal activity taking place in the park. "More eyes" on the conservation areas are needed through increased community use, more active enforcement, and increased staff presence. Management Structure Themes that emerged in this category included tying programs and initiatives to policy, such as TRCA's Strategic Plan and the City of Brampton's 2040 Vision: • Among municipal stakeholders there is a desire to tie the activation of Claireville to municipal goals, as this could also help to identify future funding opportunities. • Among internal stakeholders, standard of care was discussed, as well as ensuring that activation was consistent with the existing Claireville Management Plan, and the 10 -year Restoration Plan. Programs Existing and potential programs were discussed at all stakeholder meetings, with programming types and themes being identified according to three categories: General Programs; Programs Requiring Additional Infrastructure; and Revenue Generating Programs. General Programs Many of the discussions around programming praised the existing programs at Claireville, as well as the potential expansion of these programs. It should be noted that some of these programs could become CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx revenue generating but are not defined by their revenue generating capabilities. Stakeholders also noted that programming could be offered by TRCA staff or through external partnerships. Programming that was highlighted as a need or potential opportunity for Claireville included: • After school programs • Community -led programs • Art -themed programs • Workshops • Citizen science • Newcomer programs • Themed activities: bird watching, camping, cycling • Women only recreational programs • Mental health walks • Indigenous programs • Day camps • Programs for girls • Community-based restoration Programming Requiring Infrastructure External stakeholders in particular highlighted the delivery of programming opportunities that require infrastructure not already present in Claireville. It should be noted that several of these programs would conflict with the Management Plan's emphasis on passive use and habitat preservation. Implementation of these items would need to be considered on a case-by-case basis, and through considerations made in the Management Plan. Needs identified by stakeholders included: • Off -leash dog park • Active use park areas, such as soccer fields • Recreation facilities in the Gore -Meadows area • Need for additional open space • Additional camping opportunities • Additional picnic space • Indoor rec space • Water sports • Nature school • Playground Revenue Generating Programs Finally, programs that could clearly generate revenue were also discussed. Again, not all suggestions were consistent with the current Management Plan and would need to be considered on a case by case basis. Needs that were discussed by stakeholders included: • Paid league facilities (soccer, cricket, frisbee golf) • Re -negotiation of the lease of the Field Centre, or expansion of use of the Field Centre • Community garden leases • Filming opportunities • Permits for photographers (e.g., wedding photo shoots) CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Market Analysis The final category of themes that emerged from the consultations with internal and external stakeholders was the need to undertake market analysis, in order to understand the needs, perceptions and priorities of the local community and current park users as they relate to Claireville: • A gap identified through consultation was a lack of local awareness of Claireville itself as a greenspace available to the public, as well as the activities that can be undertaken there. • There is a perception that signage, both in the park and at entrance points, could be improved. • There remains a lingering perception among some that the park is not open or welcoming to all, despite programs and park facilities that are open to the public. This suggests the negative perception stems from a lack of awareness of programs and facilities. 4.4 Method Two: Survey Based on the results of the interviews and meetings with key stakeholders, a quantitative survey was developed. The goals of the survey were informed directly from those consultations and are discussed in the following section. The following goals guided survey questions (a more fulsome discussion of measures used to quantify survey goals can be found in Appendix 1). This survey sought to identify: 1. If the community is familiar with Claireville; 2. Perceptions of Claireville (i.e., safe, welcome, open to the public); 3. What activities park users undertake in Claireville; 4. What activities interest current and potential park users; and, 5. If the community values Claireville, both intrinsically and monetarily. 4.4.1 Delivery Method The survey was published online via the TRCA website from October 1 until November 81h, 2019. Local residents received a mail -drop post card with the survey's URL (targeting the two postal codes adjacent to the CA). A series of geographically targeted Google and Facebook advertisements also issued a link to the survey on TRCA's Claireville webpage. Current park users were also targeted by the installation of temporary signs that included a URL to the survey at key locations within the park. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 4.5 Results Two: Survey A total of 283 surveys were collected online. The response rate cannot be determined due to the three methods described above of accessing the survey. Respondent Demographics The demographics of the respondents was compared to Environics data to determine if the sample was indeed representative of the local population. Many demographic characteristics were similar, but there were some notable differences: The average age of respondents was 46.6, but 66% of respondents were over the age of 50 ( Figure 2).This is slightly older than the composition of the local neighbourhood where the median age is 51 (Environics Data). 47% of respondents identified as female and 49% male (with 4% selecting "prefer not to say'). Most respondents have children ( Figure 3).This is consistent with Environics data, where 57% of households report children at home. Most respondents spoke English at home, with only 11% indicating a language other than English. This is substantially different from Environics data, where 58% of residents reported to speak English at home. This is perhaps indicative that a survey in English is less likely to be completed by English -as -a -second language respondents. 1. Goal: Find out if community is familiar with Claireville All respondents, except for two individuals, indicated they were familiar with Claireville (Table 9).1 Over half of respondents visited Claireville at least once a month, and 21% visited the park weekly ( Figure 4). 9% of respondents indicated that they never visit Claireville, despite their familiarity with the conservation area. Most respondents found out about Claireville via road signs (52%), and over a third of respondents indicated they heard of the site through "other" means including word of mouth, the Claireville Ranch, school trips, or that they lived nearby. TABLE 9: RESPONDENT FAMILIARITY WITH CLAIREVILLE How familiar are you with Claireville Conservation Area Row Labels Count Percentage Never heard of it 2 1% Somewhat familiar 96 34% Very familiar 184 65% Grand Total 282 100% 3 This is not unexpected because it is more likely that someone who is interested in the site would take the time to respond to a survey. However, for that reason, no meaningful comparison can be made between park users and non-users. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Age 61-70, 9% Age 71 and up, 3% _ ;e under 20,2% FIGURE 2: AGE DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS Lessthan once a year, 12% Single Single adult _adult wi 10% c rei Extended family 13% Married or common law law with 21% children 52°% FIGURE 3: HOUSEHOLD STRUCTURE OF RESPONDENTS Social media Online search 10% ' Print advertising 3% FIGURE 4: FREQUENCY OF RESPONDENT VISITS TO CLAIREVILLE FIGURE 5: WHERE RESPONDENTS HEARD OF CLAIREVILLE CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 2. Goal: Find out perceptions of Claireville (i.e., safe, welcome, open to the public) Respondents were asked to indicate their experience in Claireville on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being very negative and 10 being very positive. The average response was 7.8 out of 10. The distribution of responses reveals that over half of respondents had, at minimum, a moderately positive experience at Claireville, and a quarter of all respondents indicated a great experience at Claireville with a perfect rating (Figure 6). Generally, respondents agreed with the statements "I feel safe in Claireville", "Claireville is accessible to everyone" and "I enjoy my experiences at Claireville" (Appendix 2: Figure 11). There were, however, some slight differences by demographic group: • Non-English speakers were more likely to consider Claireville less accessible than English speakers (Appendix 2: Figure 12). • The youngest respondents considered Claireville to be more accessible than older respondents (Appendix 2: Figure 13). • Respondents with children agreed that they felt safe in the park, but indicated that they felt less safe than respondents with no children (Appendix 2: Figure 15). • There were virtually no differences by gender (Appendix 2: Figure 14). It is anticipated that perception of safety would impact a person's overall experience. This was supported by the data in which those who agreed with the statement "I feel safe in Claireville" provided a much higher score for their experience at Claireville (Figure 7). This builds a strong case for the development of strategies to improve the perception of safety in the Claireville, as a means to improve visitor experience. v c 0 a v 0 0 t°q 10% 8% c v u `v a 1ob1% 0% 2% 2% ■ ■ zero one two three four five six Negative Experience Rating out of ten (10) 25% 23% 17% 11% 1 1 seven eight nine ten > Positive Experience FIGURE 6: DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONSES OF RATING OF EXPERIENCE AT CLAIREVILLE CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 10 — 9 2 1 0 Strongly agree Agree (n=100) Neutral (n=49) Disagree (n=10) Strongly (n=109) disagree (n=4) Response to "I feel safe in Claireville" FIGURE 7: AVERAGE EXPERIENCE RATING BY RESPONSE TO "I FEEL SAFE IN CLAIREVILLE." 3. Goal: Find out what activities park users undertake in Claireville Participants were asked to indicate what they did in Claireville via the open-ended question "What do you like to do in Claireville?". The most frequently cited activity was "walking", and many respondents added details to their responses that illustrated the importance and their interest in nature. Some examples of responses include: • When visiting the Claireville Conservation Area I like walking down the trails and bird watching. I love looking around and trying to identify the different types of wildlife. • Like to take a stroll in nature • Hike, bird watching and walk my dog, spend time with family. • The green space, nature, fresh air, an isolated small forest in a city. • Think about life and appreciate nature • Nature walk, listen and look for wildlife. • Observe the few birds that remain. • A bit of nature in an otherwise rapidly developing environment. • Nature, birds, it's quiet. • walk through the fields enjoy nature and quietness, we used to swim there when we were kids • Opportunity to walk in a large unstructured, unspoiled space within the City Many respondents also referred to the Claireville Ranch, dog walking, and cycling. Due to the variety of responses and with many respondents electing to skip the open-ended question, there was not enough data to look at quantitative differences by demographic. That said, there is valuable qualitative data that suggests that park users are happy to use the park in a manner that is consistent with the Management Plan (namely walking, horseback riding, etc.). There is also evidence to support the idea the respondents are interested in the ecological integrity of Claireville, as suggested by their interest in observing and enjoying nature. Respondents were also asked to indicate their agreement with a series of statements regarding park facilities and uses. Looking at all responses, there was no strong agreement on any of the statements (Figure 8; respondents generally agreed with the following statements: CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx • Claireville is a good place to walk your dog. • They would like to see more interpretive signs, • It is easy to find your way around the park, • There is adequate parking on site. • There is not enough access to washrooms in the park. Looking at the same responses by demographic revealed some differences between groups: • The youngest respondents shared less agreement than the eldest respondents around adequate parking in the conservation area (Appendix 2: Figure 16). • There were no differences of note between male and female respondents (Appendix 2: Figure 17). • Respondents who did not have children were less likely to be interested in interpretive signs and were in more agreement that finding their way around Claireville was not difficult compared to other respondents (Appendix 2: Figure 18). I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville. I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family. Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA. Claireville Conservation Area is important to me. ■ -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Disagree < > Agree FIGURE 8: AGREEMENT WITH STATEMENTS REGARDING CLAIREVILLE FACILITIES. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 4. Goal: Find out what interests current and potential park users Respondents were asked to indicate their interest on a scale of "uninterested" to "very interested" in a list of programs. Some of the programs listed are already in operation at Claireville, and others came out of the suggestions made by stakeholders in the first phase of this investigation. Respondents were most interested in: • self -guided hiking; • participating in an environmental club to improve Claireville; • biking; • photography; and • bird watching Respondents were the least interested in camping and summer camps (Figure 9). This lack of interest may potentially be explained by demographic differences; for example, summer camps will not be of interest to individuals who do not have children. Looking at differences by age group (Appendix 2: Figure 19): • Respondents over 60 are not as interested in camping, snowshoeing, geocaching, and summer camps. Younger respondents are more interested in special events. • Community gardening was of interest to the youngest and oldest respondents. • An environmental club to improve Claireville was popular amongst all age groups but was the most popular among the younger respondents. Some interesting differences between English speakers and non-English speakers were noted:4 • Non-English speakers were particularly interested in photography, community gardening, an environmental club to improve Claireville, and self -guided hiking. Of those activities, English speakers were far less interested in photography and community gardening. • English speakers were less interested in summer camps compared to non-English speakers. • Non-English speakers are more interested in camping than English speakers. • Non-English speakers were less interested in dog walking. 4 It should be mentioned, however, that because there are fewer non-English speaking respondents it is possible that their results are more exaggerated than the English speakers. That aside, this data does provide some insight into the kinds of programming that could be developed specifically for the immigrant community. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Summer camps Special events (e.g., races, outdoor movie nights, art exhibits) Snowshoeing Self -guided hiking Photography Horseback riding Guided hiking Geocaching Environmental club to improve Claireville (e.g. tree planting,... Dog walking Community Garden Camping Bird watching Biking Agri -tourism (e.g., farm tours, local food events) 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 not interested <---------------------> very interested FIGURE 9: RESPONDENTS INTEREST IN LISTED ACTIVITIES 5. Goal: Find out if the community values Claireville Respondents were asked to indicate their agreement or disagreement to a series of statements about how they value Claireville both intrinsically and monetarily: • Respondents were generally in strong agreement that Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA, and there was strong agreement that Claireville was an important place. • Respondents were less likely to agree to pay for programming, though were generally not opposed to the idea (Figure 10). • Respondents would be unwilling to pay an admission fee (Figure 10). Looking at the same questions by demographic revealed some differences between groups: • All age groups value Claireville as an important space, with the eldest respondents indicating the strongest agreement that Claireville is an important asset for the GTA. • Respondents aged 31-40 were more willing to pay for programming (Appendix 2: Figure 23). • Respondents under 30 were the most unwilling to pay an entry fee (Appendix 2: Figure 23). • Respondents with children were more likely to agree to pay for programming, suggesting that paid programs for children would be better received than programming targeting adults (Appendix 2: Figure 25). CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville. _ I would be willing to pay for environmental education ■ programs at Claireville for me and my family. Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA. Claireville Conservation Area is important to me. -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 Disagree FIGURE 10: RESPONDENT VALUE OF CLAIREVILLE. 4.6 Method Three: Google Analytics Agree Through Google Business, it is possible to see how many people search for Claireville online and what queries they use. Looking at data from January to April 2020, Claireville is most frequently found through the search of "Attractions" (1875 users). Attractions are generated based on a geographical reference point on Google Maps. This suggests that there are many people looking for things to do in the local area. This is further supported as the second most frequently used query was "things to do near me" (1473 users), another geographically auto -generated response. The third and fourth most popular two queries are "Claireville conservation area, highway 50, Brampton on" (1093) and "Claireville conservation area" (1088) which represents users who specifically searched for the park's address. The fifth most popular query was "nature" (1050), which suggests that the public associates the concept of nature with Claireville. In all, there were 2,108,406 searches for Claireville over January to April 2020, with the searches being broken down as follows: • Direct (customers who find the listing searching for the business name or address): 73.9% (1,558,524) • Discovery (customers who find the listing searching for a category, product or service): 22.9% (482,381) • Branded (customers who find the listing searching for a brand related to the business): 3.2% (67,501) 4.6.1 Online Reviews Google Maps also provides a means for users to leave reviews of Claireville. As of May 4, 2020, users had left 1,114 reviews. The average response was 4.5 stars out of a possible 5 stars. The lowest rating given was 1 star - this low review was only provided by 20 users out of all 1,114 reviews. Only 153 reviewers provided a review of 3 stars or lower, and few of those reviewers elected to leave a written review. While there are too many reviews to provide a summary of all of them. Some examples of reviews include the following (a more complete list of reviews can be found in Appendix 3): Five Star 0 Great place to escape from city life. Great hiking trails. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx • Good hiking and biking trails Paradise in the city • Great place to walk with the family. Biking trails picnic spots. No admission. Four Star • Very nice and Serene conservation area, beautiful place for bird sightings as well, free of cost • Great for nature photography. • Nice trails to walk. Has a couple of ravines and lots of flat hiking trails. Trail head has some space for parking. And parking is free. No facilities for restrooms or drinking water. Three Star • I have been many conservation areas. I think this one needs attention and tender loving care. The road is unpaved, and pot holes are everywhere. Although it has advantage that Humber River runs adjacent to the park, powerlines also run through the park. There is a small area for picnic next to the power tower. • Nice place for a quick walk in the woods however some of the trails are overgrown with vegetation. Two Star • This area needs some attention. The parking area had a lot of trash. We saw a dumping area of garbage just a few feet in the trail. We just left and went to another area for our hike. It's got potential, but it wasn't a good stop for us today. • A place from my past. Water looks high and dirty but level of reservoir looks much lower. All built up to the south with highway overpasses, where there used to be pasture land and farms. Not near as beautiful and inviting as it used to be. One Star • It was dirty, too wild, didn't look like a conservation area to me • 1 didn't feel safe 4.6.2 Analysis The reviews from Google Maps illustrate how much park users value Claireville as a nearby place to reconnect to nature. Again, hiking was the most frequently mentioned activity. Reviews with lower scores suggested that trail and road maintenance, garbage and litter, perceptions of safety, and proximity to major roads were factors that impacted experience. There were also several interesting comments from park visitors who used to visit Claireville during their childhood. This is of note because those childhood experience can help form a relationship with nature and a lifelong connection to Claireville, illustrating the importance of programs for youth. There were also some comments from past users who referenced a decline in the ecological health of the conservation area. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx SECTION 5. RECOMMENDATIONS Based on the results of the survey, interviews, and google analytics, recommendations have been compiled to better activate Claireville. These recommendations have been categorized by the overarching goals set out at the beginning of this investigation. The third goal of the action plan was to link activities to TRCA's strategic plan, those links have been added for each action item in the tables below. GOAL #1: Activate Claireville Conservation Area through improved public perception and use of the site. Objective #1: Reduce user conflict Recommendation #la: Rationale: Many user conflicts are the result of dogs off -leash. This was an issue that was repeatedly brought up in stakeholder meetings, on the survey, in the Google reviews and by TRCA staff Investigate non-TRCA off -leash more broadly. dog area in partnership with City of Brampton, in conjunction with One potential solution is to work with the City of Brampton to increased enforcement at Claireville. identify an off -leash area on a different, non-TRCA site near Claireville, as there are ecological concerns with the designation of off -leash areas, solutions would have to be carefully vetted, and will be in accordance with TRCA's Managing Domestic Animals policy. Enforcement tactics should also target education rather than compliance. This includes both reinforcement of desireable behaviour (i.e., praising visitors who keep their dogs on leashes) and education around about the importance of keeping dogs leashed. This will help to reduce conflict between park users, and between park users and enforcement personnel. It can also help create a culture of keeping dogs on -leash among Claireville dog walkers. Furthermore, partnerships between TRCA's Enforcement team and local bylaw officers, animal control, and Peel Police will help to strengthen that education -first approach. Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value Actions: Implement tracking of enforcement visits and positive interactions with visitors in 2021 Investigate partnerships with local bylaw and Peel Police. Objective#2: Improve visitor's perception of safety CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Recommendation #2a: Rationale: Concerns about perceived and potential real dangers due to illegal activity in Claireville was brought up at stakeholder meetings, in the survey, and was mentioned in Google reviews. An Complete an Emergency Action Emergency Action Plan will help to identify areas where safety can Plan be improved in Claireville as well as procedures for emergencies. One method of addressing safety concerns is to carry out an onsite assessment for crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED). Safety audits should be carried out by Peel Region Police at the various sections of Claireville (Indian Line Campground, main conservation area, farms, etc.) and recommendations implemented, where feasible. Emergency vehicle access was also mentioned as a concern for Peel Region Police. The locked gates prevent emergency vehicles from entering the park to respond to emergency calls or to carry out routine patrolling. A solution suggested by Peel Region Police was the installation of keypad gates. The keypad code would then be entered into the emergency services database, so that all Peel Region Police would have access to the code. Finally, the Emergency Action Plan's recommendations around enforcement and safety should have a focus on education and positive reinforcement, rather than focusing primarily on punishment for non-compliance. As mentioned in recommendation 1a, education can help to reduce conflict both among park users, and between park users and enforcement personnel. Potential Partners: TRCA, Peel Region Police, other first responders Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value Actions: Complete Emergency Action Plan by Q4 2021 Complete one safety audit annually over the next three years. (An audit of Indian Line Campground was completed in 2019) Install recommended keypad entry (or alternative) gates installed by end of 2022. Recommendation #2b: Rationale: An increased staff presence at Claireville can help deter individuals from carrying out unwanted activities. This staff presence should not be limited to enforcement but could also be in terms of CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Investigate partnerships to maintenance or programming. The intent is to create a sense that increase staff and public presence. there are more people watching and invested in the area. perception that Claireville is not accessible/welcoming to all users Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton, Peel Region Police, and that there is an overall lack of awareness of the extensive other TBD Programming already being carried out in the park. One way of Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value alleviating that public perception is to create a identity for 7. Build partnerships and new business models Claireville. This would help to create a sense of place for park users Action: Complete potential partnership analysis and discussions by and provide an umbrella under which programming could be end of 2021. Continue to investigate new partnerships as housed. opportunities arise. This investigation has revealed that people who love Claireville Expand trail ambassador program to include Claireville. Goal#2: Improve the public's connection to, and use of, Claireville through new and existing partnerships and programs. Objective#3: Improve Claireville's recognition in the local community. Recommendation #3a: Rationale: Two major issues identified are that there is a lingering perception that Claireville is not accessible/welcoming to all users and that there is an overall lack of awareness of the extensive Create an identity for Claireville Programming already being carried out in the park. One way of Conservation Area. alleviating that public perception is to create a identity for Claireville. This would help to create a sense of place for park users and provide an umbrella under which programming could be housed. This investigation has revealed that people who love Claireville recognize the conservation park's importance as a natural oasis, which is consistent with the Management Plan. This should be the focus of the promotion. Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton, other TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 6. Tell the story of the Toronto region Actions: Complete marketing and communications plan by end of 2021. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Investigate effectiveness of current road signs and identify opportunities for improvement. Recommendation #3b: Rationale: Naming the trail routes in Claireville (e.g., Carolinian Trail, Meadow Trail, etc.) may help to alleviate some of the wayfinding issues highlighted by some park user and would contribute to the Review and install clear creation of an overall sense of place. wayfinding signage where needed, Consider a trail naming contest where the public is asked to submit names and to vote on a curated list of possible names. TRCA could also consider names of significance to cultural groups residing in the Claireville area and partner with relevant community organizations to launch the new trail names. These approaches will not only help connect the community to Claireville but will have the added benefit of promotion through the partner groups engaged in this process. All of the above would be structured to align with TRCA naming policy. Potential Partners: TRCA, TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 6. Tell the story of the Toronto region Actions: Complete trail naming proposal by end of 2022. Review existing signage for clarity. Recommendation #3c: Rationale: This investigation has summarized the many different Link existing education and programs that are carried out at Claireville. That programming, engagement programs to however, is not familiar to some of TRCA's stakeholders and local marketing and communications community. If there was a brand created for Claireville, existing programming could be grouped together under that marketing and strategy communications strategy and would help to highlight the many different activities that take place year-round at the conservation park. For example, existing Education and Training programs or Community -Based Restoration activities could be advertised together on a single hand bill for activities in Claireville, or upcoming events in Claireville could be highlighted on the Claireville Conservation Area website. Potential Partners: TRCA Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 6. Tell the story of the Toronto region CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Actions: Align all programs with new brand within one year of brand being implemented. Recommendation #3d: Rationale: There was strong support across demographics for the Investigate options for a volunteer development of a volunteer group to help Claireville. There have group or network to help/steward been similar groups developed in the past; however with changes to Claireville funding and the completion of work related to grant funding, those groups have since been dissolved. Taking those lessons learned from past groups, it is therefore imperative that considerations for funding and staff capacity be assessed prior to the development of any new group. The City of Brampton's Vision 2040 does provide a potential opportunity for co -leadership of a "Friends of group. This includes the goal to develop Friends of Brampton Eco -Park, with Claireville falling within the network of Brampton eco -parks. By potentially co - leading a "Friends —of" group for Claireville this may have provide Brampton with a means of reaching 2040 goals, and would help TRCA increase the public's ownership of Claireville. Alternatives to a formal group should also be considered. For example, an annual "Friends of Claireville Days" where stewardship opportunities are provided would give returning volunteers a chance to help Claireville, without the ongoing administration of a formal group. Furthermore, TRCA is developing an Invasive Species Management Plan for Claireville in 2021, which will include actions related to community engagement in managing invasives species on the site. The development of a volunteer group associated with improving Claireville could be tied into this plan. When the public is more invested in the conservation area it will have the added benefit of continued stewardship and increased user presence. This will in turn provide the spin-off benefit of increasing presence in Claireville which can deter illegal or undesirable behaviour (i.e., more eyes on the property see action item 2c). Formal and informal structures for this group will be investigated based on staff capacity, funding, and City of Brampton interest. Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton, other TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 6. Tell the story of the Toronto region 7. Build partnerships and new business models Actions: Host two stakeholder and partner workshops or meetings to investigate potential for a volunteer group at Claireville in 2021. Objective #4: Improve Public Access at Claireville Recommendation #4a: Rationale: While not a top concern among all park users surveyed, Investigate washroom options the need for washrooms has appeared as a top concern among respondents on previous surveys administered by TRCA. That need will increase if additional programming and visitors increase. Currently, the Paul Flood Memorial building is opened irregularly, based on client demand. Partnerships may be explored to increase TRCA's staff capacity to maintain the washroom building. Furthermore, alternative washroom facilities could be explored for key locations throughout the park (e.g., trail heads, picnic area etc.). These could be low maintenance options such as portolets (via contractor).These options would not require the infrastructure (i.e., water, wastewater, and electricity) needed by a more permanent facility. The addition of consistently available washroom facilities will also make Claireville more accessible for people who need more frequent access to washrooms or who wish to remain at Claireville for an extended period of time. Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton, other TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value Actions: Complete a washroom feasibility study for Claireville by end of 2022. Recommendation #4b: Investigate Rationale: The Field Centre is currently not in use and could be used opportunities for the Field Centre to support a wide variety of programs. One gap identified in the stakeholder outreach was the absence of an indoor facility for programming, or to help support the work of tv and film crews. An indoor space would provide additional opportunities for revenue generation, and for programming throughout the year. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx An EO1 and RFP process for the field centre could help to identify new potential partnerships that could help to support community action in Claireville. Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton, other TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 7. Build partnerships and new business models Actions: Complete EO1 and RFP to identify new potential uses for the Field Centre by end of 2023. Recommendation #4c: Complete Rationale: TRCA has already identified the need to connect the trails inter -regional trail connecting the in Claireville to the regional trails in Peel and Toronto as part of City of Brampton to the City of TRCA's Trail Strategy for the Greater Toronto Region. It is important Toronto trail network. that these connections are completed to facilitate active transportation routes that connect these communities to Claireville. Potential Partners: TRCA, Peel Region, City of Brampton, City of Mississauga, City of Toronto Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value 4. Create complete communities that integrate nature and the built environment. 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 6. Tell the story of the Toronto region Actions: Complete construction of inter -regional trail network by 2025. Objective #S: Investigate new, and supplement existing, programs at Claireville Recommendation #Sa: Rationale: Non-English speakers were particularly interested in Consider programs for newcomers photography, community gardening, an environmental club to improve Claireville, and self -guided hiking. Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton, other TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 6. Tell the story of the Toronto region Actions: Host one newcomer focused initiative annually. Identify methods for multi-lingual interpretive and/or wayfinding. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Recommendation #5b: Rationale: There was strong interest among respondents to have Explore opportunities for urban community gardens. Community garden plots could be leased to agriculture, including the lease of community groups, or to individuals. Potential partnerships should community gardens. be investigated for the administration and operation of a community garden, which is something that TRCA already has experience in facilitating. In addition, the community garden plots there is an opportunity for new and diverse urban agriculture models and partnership at the McVean and Ebenezer sites. This could be achieved through novel partnerships with different community groups or municipal partners. Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton, other TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 7. Build partnerships and new business models Action: Continue to facilitate and identify partnerships and land opportunities for community gardens by 2021, Recommendation #Sc: Rationale: Desired activities and programs identified by Investigate revenue generating stakeholders included some potential revenue generating programs. opportunities These opportunities would have to be evaluated to ensure consistency with the Management Plan, but could potentially provide a means to help support TRCA's work in Claireville. For example, wedding photography has been identified as a potential revenue generating business opportunity in Claireville. The conservation area is already a popular destination among photographers, there may be an opportunity to coordinate wedding photo shoots and collect fees to help support work in Claireville. One of the most successful revenue -generating streams at Claireville is the use of the lands for filming. Currently the fees collected as part of the filming agreement are used to support TRCA's work broadly. There may be an opportunity to reserve a portion of those funds to support work/programs in Claireville specifically. Potential Partners: TRCA, TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx 4:1411111[111111► CK111191►141111111M01 Claireville Conservation Area is TRCA's largest property and is a vitally important area for habitat, greenspace and recreation. The conservation area has a long history of associated management plans, proposed uses, and past partnerships. Today, Claireville boasts a large - and expanding - trail network, and continues to host a wide variety of stewardship and educational events. Furthermore, the conservation area provides TRCA with revenue through the use of its facilities by tenants and external groups. The current management plan emphasizes the importance of the ecological value of the conservation area and balances the importance of ecological function with public use. Despite this long list of initiatives, ecological work, and programs, as well as its use by both local and regional visitors, there is a perception that Claireville is not inviting to the public. This action plan investigates the current public perception of Claireville and identifies means to improve both user perception and experience. All of these recommendations, however, recognize the ecological importance of the conservation area and are thus framed within the provisions laid out in the Management Plan and Implementation Plan. By undergoing work to improve public perception of Claireville, it will provide the local community and a wider range of visitors with a deeper connection to that space, fostering a sense of pride and ownership that will hopefully inspire the community to continue to protect and steward Clareville for generations to come. Actions: Evaluate options for wedding photography as a revenue generation stream. Update filming agreements to include fees set aside to support Claireville. Evaluate other revenue generating opportunities as they arise. Recommendation ft5d: Rationale: In the Management Plan, the implementation plan Continue to investigate festivals recommends exploring festivals and events at Claireville. Based on the results from the survey, festivals for families would likely be popular with the local community. Considerations for events would include the identification of appropriate sites for different types of events, and the exploration of partnerships with other organizations for Claireville to be a venue for appropriate events. Potential Partners: TRCA, City of Brampton, other TBD Link to TRCA Strategic Plan: 3. Rethink greenspace to maximize its value 5. Foster sustainable citizenship 6. Tell the story of the Toronto region 7. Build partnerships and new business models Actions: Complete event feasibility study by end of 2021. 4:1411111[111111► CK111191►141111111M01 Claireville Conservation Area is TRCA's largest property and is a vitally important area for habitat, greenspace and recreation. The conservation area has a long history of associated management plans, proposed uses, and past partnerships. Today, Claireville boasts a large - and expanding - trail network, and continues to host a wide variety of stewardship and educational events. Furthermore, the conservation area provides TRCA with revenue through the use of its facilities by tenants and external groups. The current management plan emphasizes the importance of the ecological value of the conservation area and balances the importance of ecological function with public use. Despite this long list of initiatives, ecological work, and programs, as well as its use by both local and regional visitors, there is a perception that Claireville is not inviting to the public. This action plan investigates the current public perception of Claireville and identifies means to improve both user perception and experience. All of these recommendations, however, recognize the ecological importance of the conservation area and are thus framed within the provisions laid out in the Management Plan and Implementation Plan. By undergoing work to improve public perception of Claireville, it will provide the local community and a wider range of visitors with a deeper connection to that space, fostering a sense of pride and ownership that will hopefully inspire the community to continue to protect and steward Clareville for generations to come. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx APPENDIX 1: SURVEY INSTRUMENTS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON SURVEY GOALS 1. Goal: Find out if community is familiar with Claireville Consultation with external stakeholders has identified a need for better visibility for, and branding of, Claireville. Some external stakeholders, despite awareness of the conservation area, cited concerns around familiarity with entrance points while other community members lacked knowledge of the CA completely. The survey attempted to measure the demographics of current park users to better understand who is currently using Claireville and how they learned about the Conservation Area. By measuring the different responses by demographic group (age, families, cultural) we can see where there are gaps in current and potential park users. 2. Goal: Find out perceptions of Claireville (i.e., safe, welcome, open to the public) Some stakeholders have expressed the opinion that Claireville CA is not open or welcoming to the public. While technically not the case, it is valuable for TRCA to better understand what the current public perception or opinion of the CA is. There is also a benefit to understanding the difference in this perception across demographics. For example, is the perception of Claireville more positive or negative for families or for retired people? Perceptions of Claireville were measured through the indicated agreement or disagreement of respondents to a series of statements. These statements were selected based on feedback from our stakeholder consultations (both internal and external). 3. Goal: Find out what park users do in Claireville Based on stakeholder consultations we know that Claireville is frequently used by dog walkers, commercial photographers and hikers. That said, we have limited data to substantiate these assumptions; thus it would be helpful for TRCA to better understand actual park uses. This will help to determine what activities TRCA may want to further facilitate, potential or ongoing user conflicts, and adapt strategies to mitigate those conflicts. Furthermore, it will also allow TRCA to determine if the public's current use of the CA is in line with the park's management plan. Current public use was be measured in two ways by an open-ended question of "What do you do at Claireville Conservation Area?". The rationale for an open-ended question is two -fold: If respondents were only provided with a list of options, it is possible that not all park uses will be captured by the survey. Furthermore, users are also asked to identify their interests in a follow-up question and the similarity between the two questions could result in some confusion. 4. Goal: Find out what interests current and potential park users One of the key goals of the Activation Plan is to investigate public needs and interests with respect to programming and infrastructure at Claireville CA. This includes current and potential programs and partnerships, as well as tenant programs and businesses. To measure interest, a list of current and potential programs (that are consistent with the current management plan) were provided, and respondents were asked to indicate their interest on a Likert -scale of ,not at all interested" to "very interested." These items were based on consultations with both internal and external stakeholders. An open-ended question was not included to prevent respondents from suggesting activities or programs that are too far outside the scope of the current park management plan. S. Goal: Find out if the community values (intrinsically and monetarily) Claireville CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx There is a strong link between how a people value greenspace and their willingness to protect and nurture that space. It is beneficial to TRCA to better understand how the community values Claireville, and by proxy, their willingness to maintain and steward that space. By having quantitative data that links community values of the CA, TRCA could build a strong case for potential funders for park programs, restoration and infrastructure. These data will also provide TRCA with a better understanding of the demographic make-up of the community that most values Claireville. Furthermore, there is interest in better understanding park users' willingness to pay for fee for service -based programs. Thus, respondents are asked to indicate their willingness to pay for educational programming, or their willingness to pay for other items, such as park entrance fees. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx APPENDIX 2: CHARTS AND TABLES I feel safe in Claireville. Claireville is accessible to everyone. I enjoy my experiences at Claireville -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Disagree < > Agree FIGURE 11: AVERAGE OF ALL RESPONDENT AGREEMENT TO STATEMENTS. A LARGER NUMBER INDICATES MORE AGREEMENT, WHILE A NEGATIVE NUMBER INDICATES MORE DISAGREEMENT. Claireville Conservation Area is important to me Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family No I -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Disagree < > Agree ■ Other ■ English FIGURE 12: AVERAGE AGREEMENT TO STATEMENTS BY LANGUAGE SPOKEN AT HOME. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Claireville Conservation Area is important to me Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiia -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Disagree<-----------------------------------------------------------> Agree 060andolder 051-60 ■41-50 031-40 ■Under30 FIGURE 13: AVERAGE AGREEMENT TO STATEMENTS BY AGE GROUP. Claireville Conservation Area is important to me Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family -2 -1.5 -1 Disagree <-------- ■ Male ■ Female FIGURE 14: AVERAGE AGREEMENT TO STATEMENTS BY GENDER. ■ -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 -------------------------------------------- > Agree CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family r f• f♦_ -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Disagree < > Agree ■ Single adult with children ■ Single adult ■ Married or common law with children ■ Married or common law ■ Extended family FIGURE 15: AVERAGE AGREEMENT TO STATEMENTS BY HOUSEHOLD STRUCTURE. Claireville Conservation Area is important to me Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 ■60andolder 051-60 ■41-50 031-40 ■Under30 FIGURE 16: CLAIREVILLE FACILITIES BY AGE GROUP. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Claireville Conservation Area is important to me Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville i I would be willing to pay for environmental education ■ programs at Claireville for me and my family -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Disagree<--------------------------------------------------------> Agree ■ Male ■ Female FIGURE 17: CLAIREVILLE FACILITIES BY GENDER. Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education �® programs at Claireville for me and my family -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Disagree< -- — ------ — -- — --------------------------- — ------------- > Agree ■ Single adult with children ■ Single adult ■ Married or common law with children ■ Married or common law ■ Extended family FIGURE 18: CLAIREVILLE FACILITIES BY FAMILY COMPOSITION. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Summercamps Special events Snowshoeing Self -guided hiking Photography Horseback riding Guided hiking Geocaching Environmental club to improve Claireville -� Dog walking Community Garden Camping Bird watching Biking 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 No Interest<------------------------------------------------------------------- > Very Interested ■ 60 and older ■ 51-60 ■ 41-50 ■ 31-40 ■ Under 30 FIGURE 19: INTEREST IN ACTIVITIES BY AGE GROUP. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Summer camps Special events Snowshoeing Self -guided hiking Photography Horseback riding Guided hiking Geocaching Environmental club to improve Claireville Dog walking Community Garden Camping Bird watching Biking 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 No Interest <- ■ Male ■ Female FIGURE 20: INTEREST IN ACTIVITIES BY GENDER. 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 > Very Interested CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Summercamps Special events Snowshoeing Self -guided hiking Mill Photography Horseback riding Guided hiking Geocaching Environmental club to improve Claireville Dog walking Community Garden Camping Bird watching Biking 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 No Interest <-------------------------------------------> Very Interested ■ Other ■ English FIGURE 21: INTEREST IN ACTIVITIES BY LANGUAGE SPOKEN AT HOME. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Summercamps Special events Snowshoeing Self -guided hiking Photography Horseback riding Guided hiking Geocaching Environmental club to improve Claireville Dog walking Community Garden Camping Bird watching Biking 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 No Interest — ------- Very Interested ■ Single adult with children ■Single adult ■ Married or common law with children ■ Married or common law ■ Extended family FIGURE 22: INTEREST IN ACTIVITIES BY HOUSEHOLD COMPOSITION. CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Claireville Conservation Area is important to me Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 Disagree <------------------------------------- ■ 60 and older ■ 51-60 ■ 41-50 ■ 31-40 ■ Under 30 FIGURE 23: VALUE OF CLAIREVILLE BY AGE GROUP. Claireville Conservation Area is important to me Claireville is an important natural asset forthe City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family FIGURE 24: VALUE OF CLAIREVILLE BY GENDER. M 1 1.5 2 -------------> Agree -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 Disagree <--------------------------- ■ Male ■ Female 0.5 1 1.5 2 -----------------------> Agree CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Claireville Conservation Area is important to me Claireville is an important natural asset for the City of Brampton and the GTA I would be willing to pay an admission fee at Claireville I would be willing to pay for environmental education programs at Claireville for me and my family x Single adult with children -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 Disagree < --------------------- ■ Married or common law with children ■ Extended family FIGURE 25: VALUE OF CLAIREVILLE BY HOUSEHOLD COMPOSITION. APPENDIX 3: GOOGLE REVIEWS ■ Single adult ■ Married or common law 0.5 L 1.5 2 --------------> Agree The following is a summary of the most recent Google Reviews as if May 2020 (review collection began in 2015). Five Stars: Good for long walk What's better than the Nature Great day for a hike. Great place to clear your mind! So glad we have these. A beautiful place to enjoy a quiet day great spot for a quick hike with many trail points. convenient location considering its distance from downtown core or nearby areas. perfect for doggo walks. Nice green forest. Usually very little people. I really like this park there's a lot of good spots a lot of walkways and pretty wild forest . I would definitely recommend this place to visit Place where you can hike It's a place with nature and its beauty. Feel your self in lap of nature. Love this place so much I used to come as a child and I went back to the ranch this year and it was as if nothing changed and I loved the horses and the trails CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx Beautiful place. Heaven on earth. Natural beauty place must visit A prefect natural oasis Beautiful scenes, great landscape. A must go! Great park to wander in Beautiful area for a hike. The mtb trails were great here! Great place to walk your dog. Great outdoors. Hike.walk.fresh air. Nice place for fresh air Such a nice place for summer. Hate Toronto but this place was great to take my dog for a walk while stranded there in the truck Definitely good place for hicking with relatively long trails mixed forest and plain fields. It has a public washrooms and sevarl large parking areas. Also I sow couple of picnic tables so I guess you can do that too. We were able to thrive in the park which is kind of unusual and it was free ;) Great place great colors very quiet Good experience It's huge lovely area Beautiful park if you're thinking about taking pictures among the trees or next to the ravine... Really colourful this time of year. Great place to walk enjoying the view and see nature up close. Green Serene and peace Nice little getaway from the city in the city A good place to visit ....... a must go Live right beside this. A good place to go to clear your head. Even in winter. Peaceful blissful Very nice place to go. Filming location for a hand maids tale Great place to visit with family Awesome, peaceful place Really beautiful large trails, easy to walk. Nice place to get lost. (I use this place when Im told to get lost, just dont use the maps) Excellent place to go for hikes, there is a ranch. Many beautiful trials and peaceful environment away from the city. I'm surprised I was today -years -old when I discovered this beautiful park, only 5 minutes from home. The trail to the left is about 30 mins. from the lot to the meadow (which is beside 407, which kind of throws you off), and then back CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx to the lot. But you might be able to spot deer in the clearing! If you go straight, about 15 mins. into the dirt road are more trails, away from the loud traffic. There's trails along the creek, or further down, a tree spotting trail. Didn't get to do it all today but will definitely return! (Bring a charged phone with QR scanner to do the tree caching.) Important to note: There's no fee to enter or park your car. I was wondering this myself before we went. And I highly recommend bringing insect repellant. On a side note: The trail closest to the lot is littered with random trash! Please pick up your trash, people. It's not like there's garbage bins at the entrance or anything... @) Its improved recently. Good place for hiking and biking. You can bring your kids. Its a very safe place Beautiful place! Perfect spot for proposals 0 staff was super friendly and the horses were so beautiful! Thank you for an unforgettable memory and working with my fiancee and family to make it perfect for me. Thank you! Four Stars Nice place Beautiful place for a nice long hike Very nice i and beautiful I like the ambiance. Place is very good. Very nice area for easy hiking. Quite solitaire when we visited early in the morning. If you are going to the side trail, wear mosquito repellent or you will regret it:-) Nice place for observing nature Calm in the middle of hectic Toronto Beautiful, beautiful land!!! On long weekend we went for a "little walk", what came out 5.5km in total. What a gem, not too far from the city. The gate was open, some cars were passing, don't think they had the same experience as we had by walking! We tried to venture into the forest at once, but didnt find the signing very clear, or very easy to follow ... and at one point we run into a bridge construction, so was no other way, just to turn back. Weater was gorgeous, this huge land is cut by a dirt road, only sad part, that there is no side roads going down to the field, wouldn't mind to walk in that big open area as well. This time we didn't visit the Ranch, it was closer to closing time, but we will have to arrange a day for horse riding as well. At the starting point is two ways to go, so when we came back from the big walk, took a look at the other (smaller) loop, but got very disappointed by the untamed entrance, where more than likely under the trees kids had some wild party. Bottles, plastic drinking cups, straws, big box of baby diaper Qhow did it get there?) were scattered all over... maybe a garbage bin to be placed at the side of the map would help? (because practically there is NOWHERE can be found any!!!) Besides this a bit of turn off I'm sure we will be back again! Reminds me of my childhood visiting with school Go bike riding here all the time. Amazing work out, close to home. Have had a few small issues: cars actually driving IN the conservation -called the cops, people putting loose plywood over bridges on trails without nailing them down ... [ala almost flew off into the pond on my bike ... lol The newly constructed groomed trails are quite soft and spongy, poor drainage. I'm sure there's better ground materials to allow for improved drainage. One section was even washed away. Park is great otherwise. At first I thought this place wasn't very nice at all, the forest section was riddled with fallen trees everywhere. So much so that you couldn't even walk on the path! I made it through the forest only to find a swampy area that's path came to and end mid way through. I was half way up to my knees in mud and then a deer literally jumped in front of CCA Activation Plan - Feb 9 2021.docx me! This made up for everything thus far and I even snapped a photo I will add later from my DSLR. It was the wide open area that he jumped towards and once you are on top you have a pretty good view all around. Whiles bridge ,this may be the wrong spelling .... I always pronounced it "Wilies"... holds many happy memories,1970 - 1987. 1 swam regularly in the river at the bridge and at the beach before the water park was built. A great area for a mini portage. Many times my friends and I would take a case of beer and our guitars and just enjoy the sunset and jump in the river off the bridge. The police were always cool with us. The park authority didn't bother us as we always respected the place. It is not as secluded as it used to be, but still an excellent place just to get back to nature and balance your soul. I recommend at the very least, you put one afternoon aside to visit and enjoy. Three stars It's ok... Not the best place to hike. Very plain. Rather go elsewhere to be honest. At least it was free... Really nice trails. Bring a GPS... This is a big park. They have a problem with too many dogs not wearing a leash. I've been chased through here by dogs more than once. There are signs that dogs must be on a leash but it doesn't seem to be enforced ... as with so many of the parks I've been to. Great to get lost in nature. Spend your time with family or loved on. Go for hike and may be bonfire if you find safe spots to do that in night. Good meditation place. Good trail markers. Needs more trees. Lots of dog walkers. Needs to put trail map on website. You can hear the roar of the 427 throughout. It's an important place to have in the city but it was kind of boring and traffic noise was annoying. But I'm glad I went. Lack of guidance, did not find the trails, conservation area under high voltage line (Translated by Google) I liked it although the place is very neglected, it is in recovery so I hope better for the next occasion. It's something little. (Original) Me gusto aunque esta muy descuidado el Iugar, esta en recuperacion asi es que espero mejores para la siguiente ocasion. Es algo pequeno. Its a good place. But people go there to smoke weed. I went here to Geocache. You shouldn't drive down this road because it will close without notice, but there is 2 parking lots, one at each end. Mosquitos are plenty, and if you come in mid summer, the weeds will be up to your arm pits. There are some kept trails. Two stars This place is undergoing a major growth in Meadows. Leaving it bare. My dog still loved running in the dirt though. There is a trial but there's a fallen log blocking the pathway, so it's currently not accessible for everyone. Noise pollution due to the proximity of highways. Great area to walk or hike in Brampton, however, it's incredibly polluted. There's so much garbage! Tires, blankets, car parts... No "no dumping" signage anywhere and no one wants to address this issue. Toronto and Region www.trca.ca Conservation Authority Claireville Public Use Activation Plan Presented by: Dr. Victoria Kramkowski, Government and Community Relations Specialist, Peel/York Watersheds March 3, 2021 Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Agenda Claireville Conservation Area Overview Delegation to RWA Goals of Activation Plan Definition of Activation Methods Summary of current and past work Public and stakeholder outreach Draft Recommendations Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 2 r Claireville Conservation Area 848 -hectare property, mostly in City of Brampton • Secured by TRCA in the 1950s • Long history of use for recreation • Management Plan updated in 2012, with an emphasis on passive recreation and habitat enhancement Contains numerous assets including: Indian Line campground Field Centre Washroom facility Urban farms Horse ranch (tenant) Wet'n Wild Water Park (tenant) Historic assets: McVean Barn and Wiley Bridge Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 3 Claireville Dam and Reservoir Dam was constructed in the 1950s Following a significant storm on July 13th 2013, the reservoir was drawn down to a lower level to accommodate the increased precipitation. In the fall of 2013, the decision was made to keep the reservoir at the lower level to maximize flood storage at the dam. This decision, made for safety reasons, means that the historic "recreational" water level of the dam can no longer be safely maintained without significant and costly work done to the dam structure. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 4 Delegation to Regional Watershed Alliance RES.#R2/18 - DELEGATIONS Moved by: Joanne Nonnekes Seconded by: Chris McGlynn THAT TRCA staff provide an on-site tour and an update on the progress and planning for the Claireville Conservation Area to the Greenspace and Ecosystem Services Working Group of the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA) and other interested Alliance members. THAT the Greenspace and Ecosystem Services Working Group of the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA) work with staff to investigate opportunities to animate Claireville Conservation Area and create programming and infrastructure that will promote greenspace engagement, ecosystem preservation and education, and outdoor activities to the diverse communities of the local community and GTA and report back in Quarter 2 2019. THAT the RWA and staff should also investigate potential partnerships and involvement of municipal, provincial and federal governments, as well as other means of generating the sustained investment and funding that would be required to implement the proposed priorities. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Activation Plan Goals Activate Claireville Conservation Area through improved public -Owi•� perception and use of the site; tz, V improve thepublic's connection `� • to, and use of, Claireville through F �E, fr new and existing partnerships — � Ha6itatenhancement Projects ecolaglcai fu ratImprove and programs; a n d nape a' reskare natural cover �. to the iandscaAe and provide essential habitakfor"°calsPeC1e5 Ali n the activation of Claireville with TRCA's strategic priorities and the existing Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan. 3 f � t��✓` � _� rW'A ".r�.s ♦{t} '� `. }N`�y*��s. r x _ '`�`�rW.n ly��t Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 6 �OWa.lf 1' Review: Current Park Uses and TRCA Work The list of current park uses is long, but a few highlights include: Land and asset management Trail construction: Interregional trail and secondary trails Urban farms: Ebenezer and McVean Ongoing partnerships with external agencies Filming location Extensive ecological restoration and management Community events Seasonal community learning events Citizen Science Initiatives Conservation Youth Corps events and Nikibii Dawadinna Giligwag (Indigenous Youth Program) Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 8 Methods: Stakeholder Engagement External Stakeholders: City of Brampton City of Toronto City of Vaughan Peel Region Police Peel Region Health Region of Peel Planning Community Stakeholders: Boys and Girls Club of Peel Bramalea Network Springdale Network Regional Watershed Alliance Former CLAC members Neighbouring residents (by postal code) Park users (signs installed at key locations) Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 9 Recommendations Goal: Activate Claireville Conservation Area through improved public perception and use of the site. Objective 1: Reduce user conflict Recommendation 1a: Investigate non-TRCA site for off -leash dog area in partnership with City of Brampton in conjunction with increased enforcement. Ob'ective 2: Improve visitor's perception of safety Recommendation 2a: Update the Emergency Action Plan. Recommendation 2b: Investigate partnerships to increase staff and public presence. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 10 Recommendations Goal: Improve the public's connection to, and use of, Claireville through new and existing partnerships and programs. Objective 3: Improve Claireville's recognition in the local community. Recommendation 3a: Create an identity for Claireville Conservation Area through the development of a marketing and communications strategy. Recommendation 3b: Review and install wayfinding signage where needed. Recommendation 3c: Link existing education and engagement programs to marketing and communications strategy Recommendation 3d: Investigate options for a volunteer group or network to help/steward Claireville .lf U Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 11 Recommendations Goal: Improve the public's connection to, and use of, Claireville through new and existing partnerships and programs. Objective 4: Improve Public Access at Claireville Recommendation 4a: Investigate washroom options Recommendation 4b: Investigate opportunities for the Field Centre Recommendation 4c: Complete inter -regional trail connecting the City of Brampton to the City of Toronto trail network. Objective 5: Investigate new, and supplement existing, programs at Claireville Recommendation 5a: Consider programs for newcomers Recommendation 5b: Lease community gardens Recommendation 5c: Continue to investigate festivals ... Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 12 �.Y S fit. ... � - �• i ��. 1 - .. � +r �y �f�q hR - Yui -fes •ly. Y 'Ski. i -iE. tv H �1 C r. 1 P- YK y www.trca.ca Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Item for the Information of the Regional Watershed Alliance RES.#R6/21 - EAST DON TRAIL A partnership project between Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and the City of Toronto Presentation and information on the East Don Trail project — a successful partnership between the City of Toronto and TRCA. Moved by: David Pickles Seconded by: Andy Wickens IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT this report and presentation on the East Don Trail project be received; AND FURTHER THAT the City of Toronto and TRCA continue to work in partnership involving community and environmental stakeholders where possible toward securing Phase 3 funding from senior levels of government and other potential sources. CARRIED BACKGROUND The East Don Trail Project is being completed by the City of Toronto in partnership with TRCA. The purpose of the Project is to create a key connection in the City of Toronto's multi -use trail system while providing safe and equitable access to nature and recreational opportunities for the public, and to create a safe travel route. A significant gap in the multi -use trail network currently exists within the East Don Corridor between the existing East Don Trail (east of Wynford Heights Crescent), the future Meadoway trail (at approximately Bermondsey Road), and the Lower Don Trail System. The proposed East Don Trail will fill this gap, creating a continuous connected trail network. It supports TRCA's Trail Strategy for the Greater Toronto Region and in addition to this, a section of the East Don Trail will realize one of the strategic connections of the Pan Am Path, a multi -use path connecting Toronto trails and creating an active -living legacy for the TORONTO 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games. The City of Toronto's Bikeway Trails Implementation Plan identified the need for a trail connection in the East Don Corridor, while the East Don Trail Master Plan Update, completed in 2012, determined that the trail connection was feasible and recommended that further environmental studies were necessary. The Bikeway Trails Implementation Plan was approved by City Council on June 6, 2012 with the following direction: City Council authorized the Acting General Manager, Transportation Services, the General Manger, Parks, Forestry and Recreation and, where appropriate, TRCA, to undertake and manage any Environmental Assessment studies required for the new trail connections contained in the Bikeway Trails Implementation Plan and file the Environmental Study Report with the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change as necessary; and City Council authorized the Acting General Manger, Transportation Services, and General Manger Parks, Forestry and Recreation and, where appropriate, TRCA to undertake site assessments, design, public consultation, project management and construction of the new trail connections contained in the Bikeway Trails Implementation Plan. At Authority Meeting #5/12, held on June 22, 2012, Resolution #A98/12 was approved for TRCA to undertake the Environmental Assessment (EA), as well as, the management of the design and construction of the East Don Trail. The City of Toronto and TRCA initiated the East Don Trail Municipal Class EA, Schedule C in 2013. Through extensive public consultation, the EA identified, evaluated and selected a preferred route for the East Don Trail. The Environmental Study Report for the EA was filed with the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (now the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks) for a 30 -day public review period and was subsequently approved in November 2017. The recommended solution (preferred trail route), as documented in the Environmental Study Report is a 3.6 to 4 metre -wide by approximately 5 kilometres long, asphalt multi -use trail routed within the East Don Corridor (not including access routes). The route includes nine bridges over the East Don River as well as five crossings through the Metrolinx railway corridor. The preferred trail route has been divided into three distinct phases for detailed design and construction, with Phases 1 and 2 being prioritized. Phase 1 spans from the Lower Don Trail to the future Meadoway at Bermondsey Road, while Phase 2 spans from the existing East Don Trail off Wynford Heights to Eglinton Avenue. The future implementation of Phase 3 will span from approximately Eglinton Avenue to connect to Phase 1. Attachment 1 includes a map illustrating the location of Phase 1, Phase 2 and Phase 3, respectively. The East Don Trail has been one of the most significant large-scale projects that the City of Toronto and TRCA have worked collaboratively on through the full project life cycle — planning, design and implementation. It has been used as model for which other similar partnership projects have been developed. It also was the impetus of the completion of the Master Service Agreement between TRCA and the City of Toronto Transportation Services and Parks Forestry and Recreation. RATIONALE Work Currently Underway: • Phase 1 works are largely complete with the exception of a tunnel and pedestrian bridge over the rail west of Bermondsey Avenue. These portions of the project are in the design phase and will still require permitting by Metrolinx through that phase. TRCA has retained RJ Burnside Engineering for the detailed design/engineering work associated with the rail bridge and tunnel designs. Construction of the tunnels and bridge over the railway is anticipated for end of 2021 pending receipts of permits and approvals. Final paving and installation of furnishings, signage and line painting will be undertaken immediately following completion of these components, as conditions permit. • Phase 2 from Wigmore Park to Wynford Park is anticipated to be complete by end of October, with one small segment left unpaved pending completion of on on-going Metrolinx rail bridge replacement at this location scheduled for Fall 2021. Future Work: Phase 3 of the East Don is not yet funded, it includes two significant sections, one for which detailed design has been completed but has not been built based on the Eglinton LRT schedule and priority for the Phase 1 and 2 work. This segment connects to the Eglinton LRT and travels north to meet the Wynford Park to Wigmore Park trail section already completed. Phase 3 trail improvement between Eglinton and Phase 1 at the Gatineau hydro Corridor (The Meadoway) does not yet have detailed design completed and is also unfunded. Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan: Strategy 4 — Create complete communities that integrate nature and the built environment Strategy 7 — Build partnerships and new business models FINANCIAL DETAILS Phase 1 and 2 have the funding secured for all active construction and completion of the elements undergoing detailed design. This funding has been secured through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (Federal) program as well as through City of Toronto Transportation and Parks Forestry and Recreation Capital budgets. The cost of these two phases completed is estimated at $32M. Funding for Phase 3 has not yet been secured and is estimated to range from $16M to 24M depending on the final alignment. TRCA and City of Toronto staff have been working closely in preparation for any potential infrastructure funding program announcements from senior levels of governments. This joint effort will continue with involvement of community stakeholders (e.g., Evergreen) where possible. Report prepared by: Lisa Turnbull, extension 5645 Emails: lisa.turnbuIKi)trca.ca For Information contact: Lisa Turnbull, extension 5645 Emails: lisa.turnbull(aDtrca.ca Date: October 15, 2020 Attachments: 1 Attachment 1: Map of East Don Trail Attachment 2: Presentation Attachment 1: Map of East Don Trail Existing Don Trail NXGVA0VkV Wigmore Park G 0yi ao,,PHASE 2 „ TRAIL O EG�`N11 ON " Gatineau Hydro Corridor PHASE-3 The Meadoway TRAIAnkL 92 gUNP�s� PVE O o FL 7 A �0 O 0VP 9� - PHASE 1 S`oo y GptEWgye� TRAIL LO 9Q Q, O 0 / Cp9r'y O q�F o�Ep�"�B�vo � �pta PEE 5� o PARKVIEW Lower Don Trail ` Tal'/or-Massey Cre Legend Toronto and Region Conservation YORK OU RHAM - Authority PEEL TORONTO SITE eke Ontano East Don Trail vnfNoufA COU2GLA%!OU IOLOUJo 9uq ueaiou Presentation to the Regional Watershed Alliance Presented by: Lisa Turnbull, TRCA Mark Preston, TRCA Jennifer Hyland, City of Toronto — Transportation Services March 3, 2021 Presentation Outline • Background • Project Timelines and Overview • Construction of Phase 1 • Construction of Phase 2 • Restoration and Compensation Plan The information contained in this presentation is copyright © Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 2 Background ✓ Important trail connection ✓ Minimize harm to the natural environment ✓ Safe and accessible ✓ Recreation ✓ Transportation route Informal trail created Multi -use trail at the existing East Don Trail Toronto and Region Conservation Authority I 3 Project Timeline • 2012: East Don Trail recognized as a priority projJect by the City of Toronto in the Bikeway Trails Implementation Plan updated in Cyclinq Network Plan 2019 and later in TRCA's rail Strategy for the Greater Toronto Region (2019) • 2012: Feasibility study was completed to assess the potential for a trail system through the East Don Corridor • 2017: Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) was approved • 2018: Detailed Design of Phase 1 & 2 completed • 2018: Construction of Phase 1 & 2 commenced • November 2020: Construction of Phase 2 complete Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 4 Project Overview • The East Don Trail project is being implemented by TRCA in partnership with the City of Toronto (Transportation Services and Parks, Forestry and Recreation). • The Environmental Assessment, detailed design and implementation has been a very successful collaborative effort between TRCA and City of Toronto project teams. • Implementation of Phase 1 and 2 of the trail is funded by the Government of Canada under the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF) and the City of Toronto. • Phase 3 is currently not designed and unfunded. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 5 i Don Valley West (25) R O 4'� v Z anye,oek_ Future Phase 3 York Mill[ \ St DeD�as ,t ricn,�n�don Park Don Valley West (26) ,•:, 11 ;\ ?'W6 (29) (29) Lawrence parkw„t,,:t- Don Valley Phase East (34) N L LOS Scarborough 4 Centre (37) d F rti�p.ihr�i n Toronto and Region Conservation for The Living City Study Area, East Don Trails J — mv,ra Eglinton 5ca rborough Regional Study Area Southwest (3S) Railway ICl,llilp9- i air=^�^o�^, Watercourses t Flemingdon Golf Course i Don Corridor i Hydro Corridor 8eache5-East o� vork (31) c� Existing Multi -Use Trail vo �r ---- Proposed Multi -Use Trail Phase 1 st��' Preliminary Preferred Trail ` parkv l en Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 6 1:14,000 Tvy/ari wa � 39 erenal.d ea ayye d ter (rerF, ohoph:5p.in53olli'BW SeIUHmfln.. no[eMt 6 Tke,°fxaaa afen�''nT; :i"�o;Kp°e'�',eOw�m ier N torrenion:'as H� evuhwinorir'�e.ioivnhx I mxi°` about the data on oeya aaA.,.I hobr hai.n.11 waanbine- prmuaw Wmurobtauoumnbmar.n°x ioo eonxnxioo q ""IE” ruk" x mQuant. 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Onbna M3 Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 6 Phase 1 Map Project Background Construction of the trail was undertaken using a three-phase approach • Phase 1: extends 3.1 km from the Lower Don Trail to The Meadoway, at Bermondsey Road Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 7 Project Background Phase 2: extends 1.4km from Wigmore Park to the existing East Don Trail Phase 3: will extend 1.8km to connect Phase 1 and 2 • Detailed design was advanced for a small section below Phase 2 south to Eglinton • Detailed design has not been advanced from Eglinton to the Gatineau hydro corridor (currently unfunded) Phase 2 Map Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 8 Construction Update Phase 1 • Four water crossing bridges have been installed and the majority of trail work is complete. • Completion of construction is planned for the end of 2021. • This end date is conditional on completion of design, tendering, and construction of the proposed tunnel and pedestrian bridge over the Metrolinx rail line. • Phase 1 trail will be not open for public use until the rail crossings are complete due to protect the safety of the public. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 9 - 47 -4w i a u � i'Ilk .c om N.f f � _ � �� pA�6��i i1 �� _,tee• � s 1 4 ykMapoor hr'''w'`i>�, -. -. � .. �'fFrN? Rt j e^s i i 1 Yi+;a. •a, (`` �` y. 1. _'x�y�, ., .. . hot" 344 al 4. 1 a�j If � 5 • WAMil Wv 06/11/2020 Construction Update Phase 2 • On November 5t", 2020, Phase 2 of the East Don Trail was announced to be open to the public. • This is the first segment of the three to be completed. • It consists of three bridges, one of which extends an impressive 60 metres and is connected to a second bridge with an elevated fenced boardwalk. • The trail is surrounded by a forested ecosystem and the East Don River that supports many species of wildlife and aquatic life. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 13 Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Tree Removals & Compensation Plan • The trail alignment was selected to minimize impact on healthy, native mature trees. • The majority of trees removed were saplings, invasive species and trees in poor health. • Woody material from tree removals is being repurposed for TRCA habitat enhancement projects. • For every tree that is removed for this project, three native trees will be planted in its place • A total of 3,859 native trees will be replanted in coordination with City of Toronto Urban Forestry Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 15 For more information... Visit our website at: https://trca.ca/conservation/preen-infrastructure/east- don-trail-project/ E-mail us at: EastDonTrail(atrca.ca Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 116 Trail Opening Video Phase 2 https://trca.ca/east-don-trail-project/phase-2-opening or Opening of Phase 2 of the East Don Trail - YouTube Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 17 COU26LA%!ou JOLOUJo 9uq ueaiou www.trca.ca DISCUSSION SUMMARY Members asked if there were any connections to other existing trails. Staff explained that they can take a look at updating their mapping with other existing connections. Staff explained that there are also some connections to the City's cycling network. The City of Toronto is engaging in a wayfinding strategy, where there are plans for new signage and other features that will seek to enhance connectivity at the East Don Trail. ADJOURNMENT ON MOTION from Maria Kelleher, the meeting adjourned at 8:36 p.m., on Wednesday, March 3, 2021. /dr