transportation for liveable communities

Frid fried

2008-07-31T14:31:00.000-07:00

July 31, 2008

Ministry of the Environment
135 St. Clair Ae W 12^th floor
Toronto ON M4V 1P5

Re: Request for individual environmental assessment under the part II order for the Frid St. extension municipal class EA

I am writing on behalf of “Transportation for Liveable Communities” (TLC), a working group of McMaster’s chapter of OPIRG (Ontario Public Interest Research Group) to request a part II order for the Frid Street extension municipal class EA.

TLC members have thoroughly examined the environmental study report and concluded that the process leading to the report and the report itself are not in compliance with sections 2 and 13.1 of the Environmental Assessment ACT. Below are our specific concerns:

Betterment of the people by providing for the protection, conservation and wise management in Ontario of the environment.
The Frid St extension class EA was supposed to follow the five transportation guiding principles for the Kirkendall neighbourhood traffic management study, which are:

1. To ensure the transportation network and other required infrastructure will be sufficient.

2. Integrated urban transportation systems which promote non-auto travel modes, and pedestrian and vehicular circulation.

3. Greenspace, pedestrian and cycling links connecting the site to larger open space networks.

4. To provide a vibrant, healthy, sustainable future as per VISION 2020.

5. To develop an integrated sustainable transportation system for people, goods and services which is environmentally friendly, affordable, efficient, convenient, safe and accessible.

Unfortunately, the drawings presented in the report do not meet any of these principles as there is an extensive focus on providing over capacity for vehicular traffic (rather than “sufficient”), little provision for cycling infrastructure, which is not well integrated with its soroundings, and no consideration of pedestrian needs.

Whereas our request during the consultation to add bike lanes have been accommodated, the majority of our requests have not received thorough consideration. Our other requests were:

1. We object to the centre-turn lane and protest the implication that it is provided for safety. The only research we are aware of (FHWA Publication No: FHWA-HRT-08-046) clearly indicates no increased vehicular safety for urban centre-turn lanes. Hence neither vehicular safety nor the intended low volume of traffic on the road justify a centre-turn lane. The vacant space can readily be occupied by the necessary wider sidewalk and a median landscaped with plants.

We should note that the report acknowledges that a centre turn lane may not be required (p. 66), indicating that a plan based on the guiding principles above could readily lead to development in the area that relies on the intended low volume of automobile traffic.

2. To create a pedestrian friendly route, a minimum of 3 m sidewalks along the whole street is necessary. Furthermore, whereas earlier plans included 3 m sidewalks in the section closest to Longwood St., the only explicit plans in the final report include 1.5 m sidewalks. These starkly disregard the principles above.

3. The response to TLC request for curb extensions at any pedestrian crossings has been a vague mentioning of “appropriate pedestrian features”. We find this unsatisfactory and request explicit accommodation of curb extensions in the drawings according to the neighbourhood guiding principle of creating a pedestrian friendly street.

4. The drawings in the report depict wide turning lanes at the intersections of Frid and Chatham, Frid and Longwood, and Frid and MIP. Such turning lanes promote speeding by turning vehicles and widen the curb-to-curb distance pedestrian must travel. Our request to provide for tight curb radii (i.e. narrow crossing for pedestrians) has not been properly addressed.

Obligation to consult
While the city complied with the mandatory requirement to consult with the public by providing an opportunity to comment, staff ignored requests from the two dominant local organizations, Environmental Hamilton and Transportation for Liveable Communities, to revise the plans in accordance with the city’s own environmentally friendly principles detailed above. Moreover, even at this stage of the process, city staff is willing to meet with us only to review our comments “and explain how they have been addressed in the completed Environmental Study Report” (quoted from a June 15, 2008 e-mail by L. Skrypniak). That is, throughout the process, city staff has not been willing to consult with us in order to mediate an environmentally friendly compromise in accordance with the city’s own guidelines.

In sum, we request a part II order mostly because our attempts to make the plans for Frid St extension environmentally friendly through communication with city staff have not succeeded.

Sincerely yours,

Reuven Dukas

For Transportation for Liveable Communities

CC. Councilor Brian McHattie
Ms. Larissa Skrypniak

car free meeting

2008-07-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

TLC meeting Thursday, July 31, 2008, 6:30pm at McMaster University Student Centre room 230 - agenda: Car Free Week 2008!

Car Free Week in Hamilton - help make it happen

Tentative line-up of Car Free Week events:

Monday, September 22, 2008
Bus and Hike to Sherman Falls, and Car Free drinks

Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Bike Repair Basics at Recycle Cycles
Women Only Bicycle Repair at MaCycle

Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Bridge Party in Kirkendall

Thursday, September 25, 2008
Car Free Drive-In Movie at Gage Park Bandshell

Friday, September 26, 2008
Critical Mass bicycle ride

Saturday September 27, 2008
Instant Patios in Westdale (Parking Meter Party)

Sunday, September 28, 2008
Car Free Nature Hike in Cootes Paradise

bordering burlington

2008-07-26T08:55:00.000-07:00

The neighbouring City of Burlington ON is undertaking a Cycling Master Plan process, and you can help shape the cycling network by reviewing the display from a June 3, 2008 open house, and making comments. A follow-up public meeting will occur in October 2008 in Burlington, but get your ideas and comments on the table first by using this online form (ignore the June 20 comment deadline)

bike bridge

2008-07-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

Government of Canada and City of Hamilton to officially open Ferguson Avenue Bridge

HAMILTON, ON – July 24, 2008 – Officials from the City of Hamilton and the Government of Canada will officially open the new Ferguson Avenue Bridge tomorrow. The event marks the completion of this construction project that will enhance local vehicular, cyclist and pedestrian access across the Canadian National Railway tracks from Barton Street East to Simcoe Street East. The road and bridge will also open to traffic following the event.

WHAT: Official opening of the Ferguson Avenue Bridge

Photo Opportunity: Hamilton's green fleet of vehicles will be the first to cross the new bridge

WHEN: Friday, July 25^th, 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Ferguson Avenue Bridge (Barton St. and Ferguson Ave. entrance)

WHO: David Sweet, MP for Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale
Fred Eisenberger, Mayor of Hamilton

Gerry Davis, Senior Director of Capital Planning & Implementation, Public Works Department

SNAFU

2008-07-23T06:04:00.000-07:00

If reading the police blotter doesn't make one pause to reconsider our transportation choices, nothing will...(excerpts below)

Police Blotter TheSpec.com - Local - Police Blotter
A roundup of calls July 16 to 22 (2008)

Compiled by Paul Morse, The Hamilton Spectator, (Jul 23, 2008)
Rice and Mohawk
Wednesday, July 16, 6 p.m.

A 75-year-old woman showing off her new car to a friend hits the gas instead of the brake and drives into her 83-year-old husband. The collision sends him through the laundry room door into the house. He is taken to hospital with non-life-threatening head and leg injuries.

Fennell and Garth
Thursday, July 17, 10 a.m.

A car collides with a city bus causing substantial damage. The bus driver is taken to hospital as a precaution. The driver is charged with making an unsafe lane change.

Cumberland and Holton
Thursday, July 17, night

Police see two men steal a car from Eastgate Square. They discontinue their chase when the car thieves take off at dangerous speeds. Information helps them find it later, and they charge a 32-year-old Hamilton man with possession, dangerous driving and dangerous driving while prohibited.

Trinity and Sawmill
Thursday, July 17, 8 p.m.

Police chase a large SUV stolen from Meadowlands Power Centre. They stop the chase when the driver hits dangerous speeds on Book Road. They find the SUV flipped at a sharp curve. An Ohsweken man, 20, tries to run but is arrested and charged with theft, possession, dangerous driving, flight from police and possessing burglary tools.

North Service and Fifty
Thursday, July 17, 11 p.m.

A large SUV careers off the road into a field, crosses another street and comes to rest in a second field. A 54-year-old man from Grassie is charged with impaired driving and refusing to provide a breath test.
King and Bay
Saturday, July 19, 1 a.m.
Police pull over a 21-year-old Ancaster man in a modified car and charge him with street racing. He loses his ride and licence for a week.
Centennial and King
Sunday, July 20, 8 a.m.
A 21-year-old man is on his way to a car show in Grimsby in his BMW when he is pulled over for doing 130-plus kilometres an hour in a 70 km/h zone. The G2 driver loses his licence and his ride for seven days.

Bay and Harbourfront
Tuesday, July 22, 2 p.m.

A woman learning to drive in Bay-front Park parking lot hits the accelerator pedal instead of the brake, bounces off a tree, panics and drives down a boat ramp into the water.

403 and the Linc
Tuesday, July 22, 4:45 p.m.

An eastbound truck carrying powdered cement stops for traffic congestion. A second truck carrying auto parts collides with the cement truck. The second truck is damaged and its fuel tank ruptures, causing 200 litres of diesel fuel to spill. The cement truck is severely damaged. No one is injured. Rush-hour traffic is tied up as two eastbound lanes close for four hours.

Anyone with information can call Hamilton police at 905-546-4925 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

downtown: no two ways about it?

2008-07-11T09:49:00.001-07:00

TLC will be responding to this news item with a letter to council shortly, with a call to support staff on the need for one way to two way conversions downtown:

Downtown plans stall on road conversions
Nicole Macintyre, The Hamilton Spectator (Jul 11, 2008)

The plan to convert several downtown one-way streets to two-way is on hold.

Council threw out the city's downtown transportation master plan yesterday in a contentious split vote that sent staff scrambling. They reversed their decision moments later to allow more debate at a later meeting.

Several councillors say they don't want to kill the entire plan, which was approved in 2001, but can't agree to planned road conversions.

The plan calls for the conversion of York Boulevard and Wilson Street, Park and MacNab streets, Hughson and Hess streets, and King William and Rebecca streets.

Councillor Terry Whitehead said he doesn't support York Boulevard being converted as part of the renovation of the central library and the farmer's market.

The street must be replaced anyway to fix underground services, but the two-way conversion will cost upwards of an extra $750,000.

The planned streetscape may look nicer, but it won't generate new tax dollars, said Whitehead.

"We're making big investments and getting nothing in return."

But Councillor Bob Bratina argues businesses won't relocate to the street as long as it is a "freeway."

He noted if one-way streets are such a benefit, he'll request they be installed on the Mountain.

"Let's make Upper James one way."

He was outraged council originally shot down the entire plan, which would have stalled several downtown initiatives, including removing buses from Gore Park. Each street conversion was planned to generate economic and neighbourhood benefits, added Bratina.

"This is a carefully developed plan."

But councillors, who opposed the conversions, say they felt they had no option but to oppose the entire plan.

Councillor Brad Clark said more research and time is needed to determine if the conversions on John and James streets have been successful.

nmacintyre@thespec.com

car free: it's a gas!

2008-07-09T21:11:00.000-07:00

Hi - we know life without a car can be a gas, but we need to share the fun with those who are still stuck in the automobile age for all their transportation needs.
Help Transportation for Liveable Communities get Hamilton's CAR FREE WEEK ready for September by coming to an organizing meeting THURSDAY, JULY 17, at 6:30pm, in the McMaster University Student Centre room 224.
Serious hands on work needs doing to make Car Free Week in September absolutely shimmer with excitement. Don't disappoint the future generations of car-free kids by missing this opportunity.
Last year's events are listed here - http://tlchamilton.blogspot.com/2007/09/car-free-week-2007.html - but don't let this stop your creativity: new events and ideas are extremely welcome!
Please RSVP, and if the time doesn't work for you, let us know so we can try and accommodate you at future meetings!

Thanks and see you next week!

http://tlchamilton.org

take time for transit survey

2008-07-08T06:53:00.000-07:00

Public Service Announcement

Help shape the future of Rapid Transit in Hamilton!

HAMILTON, ON – July 7, 2008 – Hamilton's Public Works Department is seeking your thoughts on the rapid transit initiative to shape a more sustainable future for Hamilton. Help us by completing a short survey to share your opinions about rapid transit plans for Hamilton.

Access the survey online at www.hamilton.ca/rapid-transit or at City of Hamilton offices, local libraries, municipal service centres and at the HSR ticket office at the Hamilton GO station. Feedback received by July 21^st will be presented in a report to Council in September 2008. Public Works is committed to providing ongoing opportunities for public consultation throughout the planning process.

To review background information, reports, studies and a map of the proposed rapid transit routes, please visit www.hamilton.ca/rapid-transit

how to boost transit ridership...

2008-07-07T12:11:00.000-07:00

Hamilton Spectator File Photo

No free ride for taxpayers?

City mulls HSR fare options

Dana Brown
The Hamilton Spectator

(Jul 7, 2008)

A new city staff report says a free transit system would cost taxpayers more than $30 million a year.

The shortfall would translate into about $161 more in taxes for a home assessed at $250,000.

The report, which outlines several options for fare cutting on the Hamilton Street Railway and the Accessible Transportation Services, will be presented to a city committee tomorrow.

Staff have asked councillors to direct them on which free transit items should be included in next year's plans.

The report says an additional $30.9 million would be needed to run a free HSR if ridership jumped 20 per cent.

The additional cash would include $5 million to $10 million to implement more service.

Ridership on a free system could increase as much as 50 per cent, the report says, although the initial jump would likely be from existing riders using the system more.

For ATS, a minimum of $900,000 would be lost in annual fares.

In 2007, 21.1-million trips were taken on the HSR. The system generated $28.9 million in revenue.

Councillor Sam Merulla, who initially raised the issue of free transit last year, is convinced it's the way to go.

"I think it's an idea or a concept that inevitably will happen," he said.

"It's a question of when."

Merulla said system upgrades would be part of the plan, making it more convenient for people to travel around the city.

With rising oil and gas prices, the cost to taxpayers would be worth the trade off for convenient travel, he adds, in addition to the environmental and social benefits of the plan.

Last year, council approved raising transit fares twice, bringing the cost of a cash fare to $2.40 as of Jan. 1. A ticket increased to $1.85 and monthly passes increased $8 to $79.

Councillor Tom Jackson explained that he doesn't support free transit, although he's open to having the issue deferred to the 2009 budget.

Jackson said the move should be looked at in the context of rapid transit development, in addition to having widespread public consultation.

He also raised the idea of seeking outside funding for such an initiative.

"I'm just saying we need to look at it in the whole global context," Jackson said.

Hamilton has one free fare program, the waterfront shuttle, which runs from June 24 to Sept. 3 at no charge.

In addition to outlining free transit initiatives, staff are also recommending expanding the city's Employer Commuter Pass program.

Currently municipal employees can have a portion their transit pass paid for by the city.

Staff would like to see that subsidy increased, as well as developing a pass for other employers. Hamilton Health Sciences is now piloting the project with some of its workers.

Options city staff have outlined to provide some form of free transit:

* Free rides from Canada Day to Labour Day. Cost: $5 million-plus.

* No fares on smog and heat alert days, in addition to increased parking rates at municipal lots. Cost: $50,000 in lost revenue per weekday.

* Free transit during council-endorsed special events like Commuter Challenge Week. Cost: $350,000 in lost revenue per week.

* Free weekday service, by day of the week.

* No fares on weekends, such as free Sundays to encourage shoppers to use transit.

* Free travel for seniors during off-peak periods.

dbrown@thespec.com

905-526-4629

http://thespec.com/News/Local/article/398521

artists way?

2008-07-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

Downtown transportation master plan accepting submissions

Car free Ogilvie suggested

Craig Campbell

Published on Jul 04, 2008

Reviewing the potential for a car-free space on Ogilvie Street between King Street West and Hatt Street, also known as Artist's Way and home to such landmarks as the Carnegie Gallery, Dundas Library, and Dundas Valley School of Art, has been suggested in a submission to the Downtown Dundas Transportation Master Plan.

In a five page submission by Transportation for Liveable Communities (TLC) to Natasha D'Souza, project manager for the downtown Dundas transportation review, the local organization raises several key issues it feels the project should address including transit problems, new bike lanes, more pedestrian crossings on Hatt Street, roundabouts, sidewalk snow clearing strategies and improvements to pedestrian crossing signals.

The submission describes the section of Ogilvie between two local arts institutions as "an excellent space for cultural gatherings" and a possible pedestrian priority area.

"The current state of sidewalks on this street is sub-par and an impediment to mobility."

According to TLC's submission, Ogilvie pedestrian areas are currently too narrow and obstructed by parking meters. It suggests wider, barrier-free sidewalks are necessary if pedestrian mobility is to be well-served.

TLC also encourages a new effort to improve The Spencer Creek Trail, linking pedestrians to local shopping, business and recreation facilities, along the historic creek.

A preliminary report on transportation within downtown Dundas by city staff found most key intersections will be able to handle anticipated increases in population and traffic.

Those findings have moved the master plan's focus to sustainable transportation, including bicycle infrastructure and pedestrian-related improvements.

A preliminary stakeholders meeting to gather information was poorly attended, but the master plan is accepting public submissions in advance of the plan's expected completion in September, and final report in November.

Full details of the master plan and contact information can be found on the City of Hamilton's website (www.hamilton.ca/DowntownDundasTMP).

http://www.dundasstarnews.com/news/article/135059

lake lanes

2008-07-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

No media showed up to the official opening of the extended Waterfront Trail linking Confederation Park with Niagara Region, but the weather was great, and alternative transportation staff Daryl Bender (pictured, left) and Hart Solomon, head of traffic department (right) were there to officiate for a small assemblage of cycling citizens, including Councilors Bob Bratina (ward 2, downtown) and Maria Pearson (ward 10, the area with the cycling improvement being celebrated).

"North Service Road - a well defined cycling route, comprised of a combination of on-street bike routes, on-street painted bike lanes, and off-road multi-use pathways, between Confederation Park and Fifty Point Conservation Area"

Sure enough, enjoy the lake breeze!

FRIDAY - new link on lake

2008-07-03T08:41:00.000-07:00

Another cycling PR event in the City.
You are encouraged to attend and invite others.

The details for the opening of the bike route on North Service Road:
Date: Friday July 4
Time: 2:00 pm
Location: open space at the intersection of Millen Road/Frances Avenue.
No rainy weather arrangements have been made.

The Great Waterfront Trail Adventure will be travelling along North Service Road during this grand opening event, so we should see some cycling activity along the route while dignitaries officiate the opening. www.waterfronttrail.org

The actual bike route itself that we are officially opening is a combination of bike lanes, signed bike routes and a section of multi-use path, providing a connection between Confederation Park and Fifty Point Conservation Area.

Daryl Bender B.E.S.
Project Manager, Alternative Transportation
Traffic Engineering Section
Public Works
City of Hamilton
905-546-2424 x 2066

GO bike bus

2008-07-03T08:28:00.001-07:00

This unlikely crowd gathered here to media-launch the front mounted bicycle racks on Hamilton-Toronto and Hamilton-Aldershot GO buses shows some depth to the Hamilton Cycling and alt-trans scene.
These are indeed heady times, with lots of sustainable transportation options bearing fruit and supporting non-automotive mobility.
The GO folks did a good job inviting reps from various local groups besides politicians and city staff; on hand, reps from the city cycling committee, the ACT office at McMaster, St. Joseph's Health Care, and MaCycle, and of course TLC.
Thanks to GO and to Daryl Bender, City Cycling Coordinator for pulling the PR together!
Now, like the singer says, "Get on your bikes and RIDE!"
(By August 2nd, 2008, all GO buses on the Hamilton-Toronto/Hamilton-Aldershot corridor will have the capacity to carry two bicycles on these front mounted racks, year round)

Thanks to Robert Konjek, MTO Communications, supplying the photo.

downtown dundas

2008-06-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

Submission to the Downtown Dundas Transportation Master Plan, by Transportation for Liveable Communities (TLC) Hamilton, Monday, June 30, 2008

Dundas is a liveable community that has grown in population, without a matching growth in support for sustainable transportation. The last improvements to cycling infrastructure were made in the early 1990's, outside of the downtown area.

A cross-section of current problems facing transportation in Dundas:

Transit riders face long waits and often unreliable service from the HSR; new residential growth at the west end of Governor's Road have no weekend bus service and only minimal service during the week. In order to provide hourly service during weekdays for Governor's Road residents, the transit service along the main business district of King Street was robbed of service; this sort of patched together transit doesn't serve residents or business needs and requires major improvement.
Too many single occupancy vehicles pass three schools on Governor's Road while pedestrians and cyclists are forced to share narrow sidewalks, creating conflict between these modes of sustainable transportation.
Besides a few new, poorly located bike parking racks, cyclists have not seen any new infrastructure in Dundas since 1992.
The 1998 Shifting Gears Cycling Plan and the Transportation Master Plan for the city identifies Hatt Street, York Road, Dundas Street, Governor's Road/Dundas Street for cycling improvements, i.e bike lanes or paved shoulders, but there has been no effort to implement these important routes to date.
A busy and key pedestrian intersection at Hatt and Ogilvie has crosswalks that do not line up with sidewalk ramps, making for a difficult and dangerous crossing for people using mobility aids - this at the site of a large development nearing completion that will serve seniors.

Action on sustainable transportation is absolutely necessary to deal with social and environmental decline: obesity and other health issues can be linked to lack of opportunity for physical activity in daily life; removing barriers to using active modes leads to healthier, more fit citizens.
With rising oil prices and global climate change, transportation is one of the areas where we can have direct impact, with great benefits to both the environment, health, economy and our pocketbooks.

In And Around the Project Area

Dundas is for the most part, built in a compact form that lens itself to walkability, recognized in the Dundas Downtown Transportation Master Plan:

"It is the intention of the City that downtown Dundas will continue to serve as the primary commercial shopping area for the Town, with special attention focused on the maintenance and enhancement of its economic vitality, its attractive heritage character, and its strong pedestrian orientation."

TLC notes that most of the residential areas of Dundas are within a 2 kilometre radius of the downtown core, an easy walking distance.
This study must, to ensure access to a high quality of life, give priority to walking, cycling, and transit if the emphasis on active modes in to be maintained and enhanced.

Hatt Street - TLC supports the Hatt Street Urban Design Study in general for it's attention to improved pedestrian connectivity and recognition of Hatt Street as a vital link in the East- West cycling route, also noted in the Shifting Gears Cycling Policy.
Necessary traffic calming to address speeding should be undertaken as part of any changes to the road design, and done in a way that will enhance the pedestrian and cycling amenities. To be avoided are design changes that disrupt the cycling amenity on Hatt (i.e. The Transportation Master Plan notes the example of "Barton Street is designated as on-street cautionary but this road is not suitable for cycling in some areas due to the presence of curb extensions.")
The Hamilton TMP identifies Hatt Street between Main Street and Bond Street for Bicycle Lanes in the short term, which TLC sees as long overdue. This should be a priority with implementation as soon as possible to strengthen the larger Hamilton Cycling network, while making a safe and visible route to support current and new cyclists. The Hamilton TMP notes that added cycling infrastructure is positively linked to an increase in users.
There need to be more pedestrian crossing points on Hatt Street between the traffic lights at Ogilvie, and the all way stop at Market/Creighton, a distance of approximately 743.m. - TLC recommends at least a responsive pedestrian activated crossing light at McMurray Street, which is almost exactly mid point between existing crossings. A location in the study area should be reviewed for a pedestrian crossing is the section of King Street between Main and York Road. To legally cross this section pedestrians currently have to walk a great distance to a signalized intersection.
TLC recommends looking at the potential for Ogilvie Street between King Street and Hatt as a pedestrian priority area, given the "artists' way" designation that recognizes the Carnegie Gallery and the Dundas Valley School of Art; these cultural institutions are buoyed by the presence of the Dundas Public Library making this section of the street an excellent space for cultural gatherings and as a car-free space. The current state of sidewalks on this street is sub par and an impediment to mobility: i.e. narrow, obstructed by parking meters. In the short term, wider, barrier-free sidewalks are necessary if pedestrian mobility is to be well served.
Transit - Dundas is poorly served by public transit with hour long waits outside of peak hours and poor circulation for residents within the former town limits; TLC supports improvements to transit within the former town that would better connect people between homes and business/commercial areas, with the possibility of creating a transit hub that would allow convenient (protected from weather) and efficient (no long waits between buses) transfer to Hamilton-bound HSR buses like the Bee Line or Delaware.
Consideration should be given to Dundas transit users' needs when the Bus Rapid Transit and/or Light Rail Transit is planned. Ease of transfer between local buses and higher-order express service, including integration with GO transit terminal at McMaster, should be a priority for the HSR/TMP.
The Spencer Creek Trail exists as a valuable pedestrian footpath bisecting the town in an east/west direction, linking residents with shopping, business, and recreation, while providing an escape from busy roads; as such, the path should be maintained and enhanced as a walkable spine along the creek, in tandem with any improvements to naturalizing the creek. Where feasible, i.e. where disruption of the natural environment is minimal, improvements to allow access for disabled should be pursued. TLC believes the footpath requires attention to enhance sections where the trail currently is forced to the sidewalks. To improve the integrity of the trail as a footpath along the creek synonymous with the trail, bridges and new paths need to be installed in these missing sections. In TLC's opinion, the south side (generally) of the creek should be maintained as a continuous footpath between the South Shore trails of the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Bruce Trail at the Spencer Gorge. Multi-Use path development could generally focus on the north side of the creek, where existing parking lots (Dundas Arena/Pool) and a long stretch of open space adjacent to Mill Street present opportunities for cycling and walking as well as mobility-aided access.
TLC strongly supports the use of roundabouts at key intersections to serve as an effective traffic calming and traffic safety measure, specifically at Governor's Road and Davidson; TLC also suggests a roundabout to replace the current traffic lights at Governor's and Creighton, and another roundabout at Ogilvie/South/Old Ancaster. Having roundabouts on the periphery of the downtown (i.e. just outside the study area) will make important contributions to the feel of the transportation system for people entering the study area.
The Governor's Road has need for such traffic calming, and more (wider sidewalks, bicycle lanes, etc) in the vicinity of the three schools between Creighton and Castlewood/Bridlewood. to encourage active routes to school and to deal with excessive traffic speed.
To ensure year round walkability, a sidewalk clearing strategy must be in place to remove snow and ice in a timely manner after snowfalls. Routes must be clear and direct, and not left to individual homeowners and businesses when that results in long periods of inaction and obstructed routes. The emphasis should be on pro-active pedestrian mobility, and not on by-law enforcement of non-compliant snow removers.
To support pedestrian activity, attention to making walking routes comfortable and attractive should be a priority. For instance, future planned bridge-work at Governor's Road and Ogilvie should address the lack of bicycle lanes and the existing narrow sidewalks while seeking to improve the natural and aesthetic features that could serve to enhance the state of this currently marginalized section of Spencer Creek beneath the intersection. This is in keeping with a key determinant of walking activity outlined in the Hamilton TMP which acknowledges the relationship between the likelihood of choosing walking with
"The pleasantness of the walk, which is affected by pedestrian amenities (e.g.,benches, street trees, natural areas, trellises, etc.), weather, and noise levels."
Spencer Creek should be made a focus for the community, and treated with more respect when it comes in contact with the built form. Community access to the creek should be enhanced in design considerations at this location, and others.
Attention to intersection turning radii are important so that crossing distances for pedestrians are not unduly increased to allow ease of turning movements for vehicles. Ease of turning for motor vehicles also means more danger for pedestrians crossing at intersections since drivers do not have to pay as much attention to making their turn. Main Street at Governor's/Dundas Street is an example of a car-centric design at the expense of pedestrian comfort and safety, especially the west side of the intersection; or the west side of the Governor's Road and Huntingwood intersection. Tight turning radii should be the norm for new intersections and retrofit to existing overbuilt intersections.
Further, pedestrian crossing signals at several intersections require a pedestrian to activate the crossing button and wait, often for a full cycling of the lights, before the walk signal activates. This alienates pedestrians in the transportation hierarchy, in direct contravention of stated goals to encourage active transportation. The argument that the increase in wait times for traffic queued at a secondary street results in an increase in idling with resultant pollution is not strong enough to override the needs of pedestrians, and indeed, marginalizes pedestrian activity. TLC wants this signal policy altered to better serve pedestrian needs, with the full cycling of walk signal as a default for intersections, in particular the Creighton at Governor's and the Castlewood/Bridlewood at Governor's intersections.
TLC supports the use of pedestrian signals with digital countdowns at intersections of multi-lane roadways in order to provide pedestrian support in making safe crossings.
TLC opposes the so-called "roadway improvements" identified previously in the City of Hamilton Road Network Strategy that would see "two-way left turn lanes along Grovernor’s [sic] Road between Creighton Drive and Bridlewood Drive and widening Grovernor’s [sic] Road from Creighton Drive to Osler Drive." After consulting with stakeholders with an interest in traffic safety on Governor's Road TLC would prioritize cycling and walking amenities identified in the Hamilton TMP (bike lanes) and traffic calming with no road widening. Road widening would not benefit active modes on this stretch of road with three schools (two primary/middle and one secondary schools), and the Road Network Strategy's emphasis on auto-mobilty detracts from the DDTMP's goal of increasing active modes. We also point to the Hamilton TMP for their recognition of the need for bicycle lanes extending from the current terminus of the Cootes Drive Bicycle Path, "Dundas Street-Governor's Road" from Cootes Drive to Castlewood Blvd as a medium term objective. Thus, the two objectives are at odds, with only the TMP serving the interests of active modes along Governor's Road, which positively contributes to cycling connectivity, directness, continuity and enhances safety and comfort.
Bicycle Parking in the downtown is currently inadequate due to poor location (i.e. out of sight) and inadequate supply. Where necessary, on street car parking should be re-designated to supply bicycle parking (i.e. where there is inadequate sidewalk width, for example, a car-parking space would be upgraded to bicycle parking)
Hamilton TMP notes that for Dundas "many of the local streets, particularly in the residential areas south of Governor’s Road, do not have sidewalks;" The TMP also suggests "Sidewalks on both sides of urban arterials and residential collectors, on one or both sides of residential local streets (with possible exceptions for cul-de-sacs) and, where required, on both sides of industrial/commercial streets." McMurray Street, between King at Hatt and south of Hatt is just one example of poorly executed sidewalk infrastructure within the study area; the north side of Cootes Drive lacks sidewalks east of York Road to East Street: TLC wants these, and other examples of poor or non-existent pedestrian infrastructure addressed to enable pedestrians direct, continuous, safe and comfortable connectivity to the community. Incremental additions to incomplete sidewalk infrastructure should be identified in the TMP with timelines for action.
Traffic calming should be part of any road changes to support shifts from automotive to sustainable modes. Speed limits through business districts, school zones, and residential areas should reflect the needs of pedestrians and cyclists for safety and comfort.
The existence of front-mounted bike racks on HSR transit buses is a welcome addition to the sustainable transportation nexus, and gives cyclists added range of options; this infrastructure should be kept in place year round.
A review of bus shelters should be done to ensure adequate shelter for transit users (i.e. size and missing locations)
Cycling improvements identified for Dundas in the Hamilton TMP should be priority items for implementation: these include in the short term Bond Street between Hatt Street and King Street (Bike Lane) and Hatt Street between Main Street and Bond Street (bike lanes). In the medium term, Dundas Street and Governor's Road from Cootes Drive to Castlewood Blvd (bike lanes); King Street/Hwy 8 from Bond Street to Brock Road (bike lanes); and Olympic Drive-York Road from Cootes Drive to Maryvale Avenue (paved shoulders).

TRANSPORTATION FOR LIVEABLE COMMUNITIES (TLC) is a volunteer working group of the Ontario Public Interest Research Group (OPIRG) McMaster since 2000. TLC takes action on issues of sustainable transportation in Hamilton Ontario and surrounding area, encouraging walking, cycling, transit and other options to single occupancy automobile use.

TLC is at tlchamilton@gmail.com
905-525-9140 ext. 26026
PO Box 19, 1280 Main Street West
Hamilton ON L8S 1C0
http://tlchamilton.org

bonding with the bus

2008-06-20T14:47:00.000-07:00

Please join [Environment Hamilton] to celebrate the first new transit line to be added in the lower city since 1982! We're also looking for volunteers to come an hour early to help decorate the wedding bus and ceremony tent.

Join us for the new Wentworth 12 bus route launch!

The Robert Land Community Association, Environment Hamilton and the City of Hamilton's Public Works Department cordially invite you to witness the celebration of the bond between

the Keith Community and

the Hamilton Street Railway

on Monday, June 23, 2008

12:00 am

Eva Rothwell Centre (nee: Robert Land School)

460 Wentworth Street North

Outdoor ceremony followed by light refreshments and tours of the Eva Rothwell Centre.

Some history...

The HSR and the Keith Neighbourhood are getting hitched!

Please join us for a 'wedding' scheduled for Monday June 23^rd, 12:00 am at the Eva Rothwell Centre on Wentworth North. This ceremony will coincide with the first day of the new Wentworth12 bus service and marks the first new transit line in the lower city in over 25 years!

The marriage symbolizes the desire of Environment Hamilton, the Keith Neighbourhood and the HSR that the route be a permanent commitment between the residents and the public transit system.

Our staff will be on hand to 'officiate' at the nuptials and the bus will carry 'just married' decorations for the rest of its first day. Residents are invited to travel for free on this route during the first week of service.

A 2006 Environment Hamilton door-to-door survey of 3200 North Hamilton homes produced evidence of a demand for the new service.

Some homes were more than a kilometre from the nearest HSR stop.

The Wentworth number 12 will follow a rectangular route south on Wentworth, west on Stinson, north on Victoria past the General Hospital, and east on Burlington Street back to Wentworth . It will provide 30 minute service to cover both morning and afternoon rush hours. The new line intersects with six major east-west routes – King 1, Barton 2, Cannon 3, Burlington 4, Delaware 5 and Beeline 10.

It will link link six east-west HSR lines to Hamilton General Hospital, the VON, Cathedral High School, and of course, the Keith Neighbourhood residents. Initial service is weekdays only from 6:45 to 9:00 am, and 2:20 to 7:15 in the afternoon.

You are invited to witness the 'wedding' ceremony, enjoy wedding cake and refreshments, throw confetti and take a ride on the wedding bus, decorated in the spirit of the day.

catching up with some trail development

2008-06-15T09:58:00.000-07:00

*CATCH News – **June 15, 2008***

*Major west end trail expansion*

A major addition to the walking and cycling trail system in west Hamilton will provide a direct link between the the Kirkendall neighbourhood and the Dundas Valley. A proposal www.myhamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/89EB732E-73CA-4A95-8DFA-E5D3E1F5DE6B/0/Jun16PW08068.pdf to purchase and lease nearly two kilometres of CP rail line goes to the public works committee tomorrow morning (June 16).

The agreement would see the city purchase a 900 metre right of way from the Fortino’s property on Main West to Stroud Avenue, and sign a 20-year lease for an additional 820 metres across the 403 connecting Stroud to Studholme Avenue. A final 350 metre section of trail would run along the north edge of Chedoke Golf Course.

An existing rough and narrow path along the rail line has been used informally by cyclists for several years as an off-road route across the 403, but that practice has had no legal sanction. That would be replaced by a 5 metre wide paved path, with a narrower section along the golf course.

The city already has an agreement that links Fortino’s with the Ewen Road terminus of the popular Hamilton Conservation Authority rail trail that extends into the Dundas Valley and on to Brantford, Paris and Cambridge forming a 90-kilometre off-road trail system. At the other end, the new trail would link with the radial line path up the escarpment from Chedoke to Mohawk Road.

The agreement requires an independent appraisal of the property being sold, but there is already agreement between CP and the city that the purchase price won’t exceed $725,000 – an amount the staff report http://www.myhamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/89EB732E-73CA-4A95-8DFA-E5D3E1F5DE6B/0/Jun16PW08068.pdf says is “significantly less” than the potential value of the land. The city will provide CP with a charitable tax receipt for any additional value and will name CP as the sponsor of the resulting trail.

Some of the property may be contaminated so the report warns that “the offer to purchase will be contingent on the outcome of the site investigations, and if unexpected conditions are found, this may require abandoning of the project, renegotiation or alternate action.”

However, provincial regulations exempt trail projects from some cleanup requirements since there is usually little or no disturbance of potentially contaminated soils. Staff note that some excavation may be necessary if a decision is made to install lighting along portions of the trail, so they are recommending soil testing before the deal is finalized.

Funds for the purchase were approved in last year’s capital budget. A one-time payment of $150,000 for the 20-year lease would be covered by the annual cycling budget.

Staff say the golf course section – which would require “some relocation of golf tees” – has been worked out with neighbours by ward councillor Brian McHattie.

“Staff and councillor McHattie met with the neighbours , the consultant and a representative of Hamilton Police Service on site last summer and the proposed layout was satisfactory to them,” notes the report, “although the police specifically suggested that for maximum safety the path through the golf course not lighted to discourage night-time use.”

While giving city residents direct access to the recreational trails in the Dundas Valley and beyond, the new route will also provide commuter cycling links with the university and the Innovation Park research development planned for Longwood Road.

“The trail is the missing link in a circular route which connects to trails at the top of the escarpment and provides a safe riding environment and excellent scenery and perspective of the centre of Hamilton”, notes the staff report. “Recreational cycling is a key intermediate step to encourage citizens to consider cycling as a commuting mode.”

CATCH (Citizens at City Hall) updates use transcripts and/or public documents to highlight information about Hamilton civic affairs that is not generally available in the mass media. Detailed reports of City Hall meetings can be reviewed at www.hamiltoncatch.org http://www.hamiltoncatch.org/. You can receive all CATCH free updates by sending an email to info@HamiltonCATCH.org .

fly bye

2008-06-13T07:24:00.000-07:00

Aerotropolis an idea that won't fly

Don Mclean, The Hamilton Spectator, (Jun 13, 2008)

The city's 25-year-old airport business park is still 85 per cent empty -- and Terry Cooke, in a column on this page last Saturday, says we must pay to greatly expand it into an aerotropolis.

He claims the "city's future prosperity depends on servicing our airport lands." But like every other fan of this aerotropolis, he doesn't tell us how much it will cost.

What we know suggests a price tag of several hundred million dollars. The consultant studies released last month say a new expressway is required across the rural area between the airport and the south end of the Red Hill Valley Parkway, and warn that the aerotropolis may require widening the 403 escarpment crossing.

They call for a new 25-kilometre trunk sewer pipe from the airport to the Woodward Avenue water waste water plant.

Something similar will be needed for water services -- the consultants aren't sure how much. But they note the airport is the highest point of land in the city so pumping stations are required. And since some of the aerotropolis lands slope away from the lake, pumps will be necessary for the sewage too.

Cooke says Hamilton can pay for all this as well as fixing the downtown and the bayfront industrial area. He doesn't explain how.

He fails to mention that airline fuel prices have nearly doubled in the last year. Since December alone, nine U.S. airline companies have gone bankrupt. Others are desperately raising fares and imposing fees on the first piece of baggage.

What happens to our aerotropolis investment when oil hits $150 a barrel (expected this summer), or $200 a barrel (expected by 2010), or goes much higher? That's the worst possible news for airports, especially small regional ones such as Hamilton's. Why would anyone suggest we bet Hamilton's economic future on this?

Cooke also doesn't mention the aerotropolis will consume 3,000 acres of prime agricultural land -- foodland that becomes more precious as fuel hikes raise shipping costs.

Instead he exaggerates the success of the airport. He predicts more cargo, but doesn't mention the airport has been stuck at the same level for the past seven years.

He points to 700,000 passengers last year (actually 662,000), but doesn't explain that everyone is counted twice -- once going out and once again coming back -- or that this is 30 per cent fewer than in 2004.

He claims there are 3,500 "well-paying" jobs at the airport. The airport operators themselves say a little over 1,600. Maybe he's counting them on the way to work and again on the way home.

He says the airport operators paid the city a $165,000 "royalty" last year, but neglects to mention that the city is required to spend half this rent on promoting it. The taxpayers own the 1,460-acre airport, and in the 12 years of private management, have received an average of less than $15 per acre per year in rent.

He argues the aerotropolis will attract jobs but doesn't mention that over two-thirds of the land is expected to be occupied by warehousing-transportation and wholesale trade -- jobs that would make more sense on the bayfront, near the QEW, and that marine shipping appears to have a brighter future than air freight.

The facts suggest that paying for the aerotropolis means we can forget about restoring the vitality of the lower city, and that we'll be leaving it to our grandkids to clean up old industrial lands. Before council commits us to this, we need all the information fairly presented, so there can be a full public discussion.

Don McLean is a cofounder of Environment Hamilton. He volunteers with Citizens At City Hall and teaches environmental studies for Athabasca University.

http://thespec.com/Opinions/article/385788

ups and downs

2008-06-09T05:56:00.000-07:00

Ted Brellisford, the Hamilton Spectator

Step up ... to a new view

Dana Brown
The Hamilton Spectator, (Jun 9, 2008)

The long-awaited east Mountain stairs are finally open.

Despite opposition and delays, metal steps leading from the Escarpment Rail Trail to Mountain Brow Boulevard are cemented into the landscape.

"It's long overdue," said cyclist Jay Jespersen, 31, out for a ride during yesterday's blazing heat.

The steps are located about 300 metres east of the lower set, which run from the trail to Kimberly Drive near the Kenilworth Traffic Circle.

Although Jespersen likes having the new steps as a point of access to the Mountain, he would've liked to have seen the stairs continue farther down.

"It'd just be nice to have a straight run up," he said.

Construction on the steps started last fall after the province gave the city the go-ahead in the spring.

Area residents opposed to the stairs were unhappy with the Niagara Escarpment Commission's decision to allow construction and took their appeal to the Environmental Review Tribunal.

The tribunal approved the project, but because of a technical error in documents, the final decision was bumped up to then minister of natural resources David Ramsay.

Residents were concerned the stairs would bring an undesirable element and destroy a treed section of the escarpment.

Wendy Darby, wife of residents' spokesperson Grant Darby, said so far there haven't been any huge issues with the stairs.

"Now that they're here, we'll probably use them," she said.

Darby said there has been an increase in the number of parked cars in front of the couple's home and she has seen a number of youths hanging around the stairs.

She also suggested that, given the traffic changes and increased pedestrian traffic, a proper pedestrian crosswalk at the corner of Mountain Brow and Margate Avenue would be a good idea.

Before the metal steps were built, residents relied on Uli's Steps, a homemade construction of 145 stairs, to get down to the rail trail. A second homemade set continues down to near the Rosedale pool.

Rita Leonard, 47, still uses Uli's Steps although she has also been using the new stairs since they opened.

"These ones are a little bit more challenging," she said, noting that the metal construction seems steeper.

The city is planning an official opening for the stairs for June 25.

dbrown@thespec.com

905-526-4629

http://thespec.com/News/Local/article/382992

ungoverned governor's?

2008-06-08T06:17:00.000-07:00

Audit suggests changes to update road philosophy
Participants watch Governor's drivers ignore rules during school dismissal

Craig Campbell, Dundas Star News
Published on Jun 06, 2008

Governor's Road is still treated as a highway access to Dundas, despite a drastic change in its use, Dundas' public school board trustee said last week.

Jessica Brennan participated in a safety walkabout on Governor's Road, joining a group that focussed on traffic, pedestrian and cycling issues around the new Sir William Osler Elementary School. Another group focussed on issues around St. Bernadette Catholic Elementary School, less than one kilometre away.

"It's the philosophy of the road," Ms. Brennan said during a short discussion that raised no less than 19 issues to pursue, following last Thursday's safety review.

"It used to be thought of as a highway into Dundas. That doesn't address the current use."

She noted Governor's Road now revolves around educational and residential uses, with a new focus on pedestrians and cyclists. Ms. Brennan's comments echoed points made by many other participants.

Most agreed the philosophy of the road, and driver attitude, has to change to meet the reality of its current use.

To help address this, the City of Hamilton will reassess placement of crossing guards on Governor's Road, and consider a recommendation to move the current crossing guard at Creighton Road to Huntingwood, and potentially adding a second crossing guard at Bridlewood.

Governor's Road will also be reviewed for dedicated bike lanes. The Hamilton Wentworth District School Board will be asked to add more bike racks to accommodate a large number of students who ride to school.

Concern was also expresssed about the lack of sidewalks on Governor's Road, beyond Moss Boulevard.

Organized by Transportation for Livable Communities and city staff from public health and traffic services, the walkabout included Dundas councillor Russ Powers and his administrative assistant Arlene Vanderbeek, the local public school trustee, staff of St. Bernadette Catholic Elementary School and parents from Sir William Osler - but no staff representatives of Highland Secondary School or Sir William Osler.

In total, 17 people participated in the safety review, during Safe Kids Week.

St. Bernadette Catholic Elementary School Principal Rukshi Athulathmudali will request increased police and bylaw enforcement of No Stopping and No Parking areas in front of the school.

During last week's audit, a car made an illegal U-turn in front of the school then parked on the sidewalk, in a clearly marked No Stopping zone.

Several students dashed across Governor's Road from between parked cars crammed into a no parking area intended for emergency vehicles. School staff discourage parents from parking there, but the bylaw does permit parking for 15-minutes.

Ms. Athulathmudali would also like to see a curb, or sidewalk, placed across the street from the school, to dissuade drivers from passing on the soft shoulder or attempting U-turns.

It was suggested relocating a Creighton and Governor's crossing guard closer to St. Bernadette at Huntingwood, would provide a closer crossing option for young students.

Ms. Athulathmudali also said drivers are not obeying the 40 km-h flashing school zone that includes the three school stretch of Governor's Road.

Without assistance

Over at Sir William Osler, Ms. Brennan noticed there were more school children crossing Governor's Road than the single crossing guard could accommodate. That resulted in some students crossing at different areas without the assistance of a crossing guard.

A second guard at Osler and relocating a guard to Huntingwood will be part of the Governor's Road crossing guard analysis by the city.

Several vehicles speeding along Governor's Road illegally used the unpaved shoulder to pass another car waiting to turn left into the school's parking lot.

Ms. Athulathmudali, and a St. Bernadette teacher also participating in the safety walk, said drivers speeding by on the shoulder is a common occurrence that has resulted in a few staff members being rear-ended in front of the school.

Ms. Brennan also asked for an update on a proposed Governor's Road roundabout, and the potential widening of the street.

A list of 19 issues and questions raised during last week's walkabout, including investigation of traffic calming measures and increasing by-law and police enforcement, has been produced and representatives of the city, school boards, or Transportation for Livable Communities have been asked to follow-up.
http://www.dundasstarnews.com/news/article/131416

trail story

2008-06-08T05:55:00.000-07:00

Transportation group asks for Cootes Trail safety improvements

Craig Campbell, Dundas Star News,
Published on Jun 06, 2008

A community transportation group has asked the City of Hamilton to install a reflective bollard, or post, between Cootes Drive and a pedestrian path where it intersects with Olympic Drive.

Last week's request by Transportation for Livable Communities representative and Dundas resident Anita Toth came 42 days after Jennifer Skingley was struck from behind by a vehicle as she walked her family dog Holly along the paved pedestrian trail.

Police announced this week the driver of the vehicle will not be charged.

Ms. Skingley was taken to hospital with a concussion. She suffered headaches several weeks after the incident and received ongoing treatment. Holly, a two-year-old Australian cattle dog, was pulled under a wheel. One of her back legs was later amputated.

An unnamed driver accessed the Cootes pedestrian trail as he turned left from Olympic Drive.

"The intersection in question has no signs or barriers indicating that cars are not permitted on this path," Ms. Toth stated in the letter. "Instead, there is a wide, paved section which leads from the road to the path, which can cause confusion for out-of-town or new-to-town individuals."

She notes signs indicating motorized vehicles are not permitted on the pedestrian path are only found once a person is actually on the path.

Ms. Toth and TLC request installation of "a soft, break-away style, yellow reflective bollard, at least 150 centimetres tall" in the centre of the paved section.

The letter suggests placing the bollard no closer than 100 centimetres to the edge of the pedestrian path, and at least 200 centimetres from the edge of the Cootes Drive curb lane, "along with an appropriate sign indicating no access for motor vehicles."

Police determined early in the now seven week long investigation that alcohol was not a contributing factor to the driver entering the pedestrian path at Olympic Drive. He reportedly drove nearly two kilometres along the path before striking the McMaster University student.

Hamilton Police Service spokesperson Sergeant Terri-Lynn Collings said there will be no charges laid against the driver, under the Highway Traffic Act.

But it doesn't appear police are completely finished with the case.

"Police are looking at other ways of dealing with this," Sgt. Collings said. "We will be searching other venues."

She would not elaborate on what other options police might have.

A city staff member said last week the traffic department was reviewing the April 19 incident to see what could be done to prevent it from happening again.

But traffic staff would not comment further, citing pending litigation by Jennifer Skingley's father, Malcolm.

City parks staff say park bylaws do not permit vehicles in parks or on pedestrian trails, but related signage is the responsibility of the traffic department.

http://www.dundasstarnews.com/news/article/131421

getting ready to walkabout

2008-06-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

Sustainable transportation takes to the streets and sidewalks on Governor's Road in Dundas May 29, 2008, as parents, city staff, principals and teachers, along with politicians and media join TLC volunteers in a walkabout to look for ways to improve the walking and cycling environment in the vicinity of three schools on a one kilometer stretch of road.

The event was part of Safe Kids Week.

Thanks to the organizing efforts of TLC volunteer Erin Willson, supported by Hamilton Public Health nurses Sharon Mackinnon and Sue Connell, and a small grant from Safe Kids Canada, much insight was gained on needed improvements, with action to follow.

Participants used checklists and information provided by Safe Kids Canada to evaluate the area around the schools for safety and comfort for children walking or cycling, and identified areas in need of improvement.

A fuller report will follow at a later date.

Thanks for all who gave their time to make this important event a success!

commuter challenge

2008-05-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

TLC had a table at the Active Transportation Fair, Friday, May 30, at McMaster University where we handed out cycling route maps, and a tlc flyer. We also met other groups working on creating a sustainable transportation system including the HSR with a bus bike rack for people to try, MaCycle with their free bike tune-ups, GO transit, the city of Hamilton strategic planning department with a survey on rapid transit, and McMaster Security with free bike identification engraving.

Congrats to the organizers from McMaster's ACT office.

June 1-7, 2008 is the Commuter Challenge, you can find out more and register your participation here.

The week includes free HSR on Clean Air Day, Wednesday, June 4, if you have your wristband/bracelet, and participation (i.e. logging your daily commute) gets you a chance at a grand prize of VIA train tickets for two, anywhere in the Quebec-Windsor corridor.

never mind the bollards

2008-05-29T19:22:00.000-07:00

May 27, 2008

[Letter sent to city councillors Powers and McHattie, city cycling staff, and public works, also local media]:

Transportation for Liveable Communities (TLC) is a volunteer working group of the Ontario Public Interest Research Group at McMaster University. TLC seeks to improve conditions and infrastructure that supports and actively encourages healthy and sustainable transportation modes, including walking, transit, cycling and car pooling.

Earlier this month, a pedestrian and her dog were hit by a car which made a left-hand turn from Olympic Drive onto the Cootes cycling/pedestrian path. The car traveled nearly 2 kilometers on the path before hitting the pedestrian and her dog.

In light of this incident, and on behalf of TLC, I am writing to request a modest change to the intersection of Cootes and Olympic Drive in Dundas, namely in the intersection of Olympic Drive and the Cootes cycling/pedestrian path.

The intersection in question has no signs or barriers indicating that cars are not permitted on this path. Instead, there is a wide, paved section which leads from the road to the path, which can cause confusion for out-of-town or new-to-town individuals. (The former was the case with the above mentioned driver.) Signs indicating no motorized vehicles are only to be found once a person is actually on the path.

Due to this accident and the confusing opening to the Olympic Drive/Cootes path, TLC would like to request the installation of a soft, break-away style, yellow reflective bollard, at least 150cm tall installed in the centre of the paved section not closer than 100 cm to the edge of the Cootes path and at least 200 cm from the edge of the curb lane of Cootes Drive, along with an appropriate sign indicating no access for motor vehicles.

Thank you in advance for your assistance with this important pedestrian and cycling safety consideration.

Respectfully,

Anita Toth