bonding with the bus

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

*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

Aerotropolis an idea that won't fly TheSpec.com - Opinions - 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

---

Ted Brellisford, the Hamilton Spectator

Step up ... to a new view TheSpec.com - Local - 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?

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

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

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

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

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

FRID REPLY

The City of Hamilton response to TLC concerns about transportation issues associated with the McMaster Innovation Park development.

RE: City of Hamilton
Frid Street, Schedule C
Class Environmental Assessment

Dear Mr. Dukas:

On behalf of the City of Hamilton, we would like to thank you for providing comments to PIC #2 for the above-noted study.

During and following PIC #2, the following comments were noted from the public:

• Improve accessibility for pedestrians;
• Consider “Safety First”;
• Provide for designated bicycle lanes;
• Provide landscape/urban design boulevards;
• “Do it right the first time”; and,
• Retain and provide accessibility for Historic Power Plant.

In response to these comments, the City of Hamilton indicated that the preferred design alignment and cross-section for the Frid Street extension be modified to take into consideration comments provided by the public during the Public Consultation process.

For the existing section of Frid Street between Main Street and Chatham Street, the 23m right-of-way (ROW) identified in the Kirkendall Neighbourhood Traffic Management Plan (TMP) remains as this is an existing developed area.

For the new section of Frid Street between Chatham Street and Longwood Road, the City and landowners have agreed that 26m right-of-way be provided to incorporate designated bike lanes, sidewalks on both sides and wider boulevards as requested by the public.

In the Schedule C Environmental Study Report (ESR), the following typical cross-section for the existing section of Frid Street between Main Street and Chatham Street (23m ROW) is as follows:

• 2 wide travel lanes at 4.25m per lane to accommodate a signed bike route;
• 3.5m centre-turn lane providing safe vehicle access/egress to businesses;
• 3.0m boulevard, both sides, allowing snow storage and separation between pedestrian and vehicles;
• 1.5m sidewalks, both sides; and,
• 1.0m available for urban/design landscaping treatment to be determined during detailed design.

For safety purposes, the preferred alignment does not provide for on-street parking.

Pedestrian access/crossing will be provided at intersections.

The following typical cross-section for the new section of Frid Street between Chatham Street and Longwood Road (26m ROW) is as follows:

• 2 travel lanes at 3.5m per lane;
• 3.4m centre-turn lane;
• 1.8m designated bicycle lanes on both sides;
• 1.5m sidewalks on both sides;
• Minimum 3.0m boulevards on both sides; and,
• Curbs and property buffers.

It is noted that the centre-turn lane is provided for safe access/egress to proposed development and in the case of the section between Longwood Road and the McMaster Innovation Park (MIP) access road; back to back left turn storage is provided.

No on-street parking is provided along this section of the Frid Street extension unless it can be aesthetically provided within urban design techniques approved by City of Hamilton staff.

Similar to the northern portion of Frid Street, pedestrian access will be provided at all intersections.

In order to provide protection and access to the Historic Power House, the edge of the road right-of-way is located 4m south of the Historic Power House south wall. This roadway grade at this location will require a retaining wall to be constructed at the edge of the road right-of-way. The retaining wall height provides the opportunity for a pedestrian access from Frid Street to the second storey of the Power House connection to a proposed tourist catwalk system within the Power House.

From the Kirkendall Neighbourhood TMP, this project was identified as the “Frid Street Extension”, in which this project name has been carried forth.

For further detail on the Project Team’s review of the comments provided by you are provided on attached Table 1.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact myself at 905-546-2424 Ext. 2732 or lskrypni@hamilton.ca or Jack Thompson, MRC at 905-823-8500 or jthompson@mrc.ca

Yours truly, Lorissa Skrypniak, MCIP, RPP
Public Works Senior Project Manager

cc. Randy Kay, TLC Jack Thompson, Project Manager

TLC is encouraging all those interested in seeing some improvements made to sustainable transportation in the former town of Dundas to check out the Downtown Dundas Transportation Master Plan just kicking in to its public phase June 5, 2008 with an open house at the Dundas Baptist Church 201 Governor's Road (not on the best served bus route, a non existent bicycle path, and not even that pleasant a walk - perfect reasons to attend!) from 5:30 to 7:30pm

Dundas hasn't seen much new infrastructure for active transportation modes in years (decades?), and bus service is poor generally, so there is much work to be done.

Come and lend your vision to the plan, to ensure Dundas is enhanced as a walkable, cycling-friendly, and transit efficient place.

countdown up

Ward One councillor Brian McHattie shared the news with us that the pedestrian countdown timer which TLC requested for the crossing at Cootes drive and Sanders/McMaster was installed Wednesday (May 21)!

TLC's initial request for the countdown timer was refused by the city; a poll conducted by a TLC volunteer at the site and online found overwhelming support (89.1%) for the timer; this information was presented to the city and the councillor and helped to bring about the installation of the timer.

The timer should increase efficiency for pedestrians and cyclists using the crossing, by providing accurate information about how much time remains to make a crossing.

road diet: York Blvd Bicycle Lanes!

Formerly two car lanes, now one lane for cars, one for bicycles on York Blvd in Hamilton Ontario. This job was on the books for years, so it is a pleasure and a relief to finally have the lines down.

Grand opening is for1:00pm Tuesday May 21, 2008, but you can ride it today!

[Photo by Richard Dominick]

Governing School Zone

Media Advisory

Transportation for Liveable Communities(TLC)

addressing school zone safety in Dundas

Dundas, ON-May 15, 2008-Transportation for Liveable Communities (Hamilton's sustainable transportation advocacy group) will be leading a Community Walkabout on Governor's Road from St. Bernadette's School to Sir William Osler School.

WHO: TLC, Staff from City of Hamilton (Public Health Services, Traffic, School Crossing Guards), staff from the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board and the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board, parents and interested community members.

WHAT: TLC, in cooperation with Safe Kids Canada, wants parents to understand that most pedestrian injuries and deaths are preventable. TLC has received a grant from Safe Kids Canada to conduct a "Community Walkabout" as part of Safe Kids Week. The goal of the walkabout is to address school zone safety. This approach is effective because it brings everyone together at once to identify and address the issues and work on how to make the environment safer.

WHEN: Thursday, May 29, 2008

3:15 p.m.

WHERE: Walkabout participants will meet across the street from St. Bernadette's school at Governor's Road, Dundas. The group will proceed west along Governor's Road and end at Sir William Osler School, where there will be a brief meeting to summarize findings from the walkabout and identify potential solutions.

WHY: Pedestrian injuries are a leading cause of injury related death of children under the age of 14. In order to make our communities safer for child pedestrians, we need to change societal attitudes to respect the rights of pedestrians, make environments safer, and increase the knowledge, skills and practices of children and parents. Making communities more walkable is a best practice program to reduce child pedestrian deaths and injuries. If a community is walkable and safe for children, it makes the environment safer for pedestrians of all ages.

tlchamilton.org PO Box 19, 1280 Main Street West Hamilton ON L8S 1C0 tlchamilton@gmail.com

driving distraction on cootes?

Cootes driver investigated

Craig Campbell,Published on May 09, 2008

Police are still investigating a driver who turned left from Olympic Drive onto an uncontrolled pedestrian path last month, eventually striking a 22-year-old woman walking her dog.

Acting Hamilton Police Services Sergeant Walter Johnston said investigators originally thought alcohol was a factor.

"But investigation found alcohol was not a factor. Excessive speed was also not a factor," Sgt. Johnston said.

As he described it, the driver turned left from Olympic Drive through the intersection and directly onto the pedestrian path instead of Cootes Drive itself.

Early in the morning of April 19, McMaster student and Dundas resident Jennifer Skingley took a break from studying for final exams to take her family dog for a walk.

By 12:03 a.m., she was taken to hospital suffering from a concussion and neck injuries. Ms. Skingley was apparently home by last week, but still suffering headaches and will need further tests. Her father, Malcolm Skingley, a Dundas resident, raised concerns about the lack of safety barriers between the roadway and paved path.

"I see a lot of people, seniors and people with children, walking on that path," Mr. Skingley said.

There is in fact no barrier preventing vehicles from driving through the Cootes-Olympic intersection and onto the paved Cootes Drive Trail, and nothing to separate the trail from the other two lanes of traffic on Cootes Drive.

Only a couple of signs facing walkers and bikers indicate vehicles are not permitted.

Much of the 2.5-kilometre long paved trail runs directly along the south side of Cootes Drive, where the posted speed limit is 80 km-h, with no protective barrier between traffic and the trail.

Safety improvements

Mr. Skingley said the City of Hamilton should be pressured into making safety improvements along Cootes Drive and the paved trail to prevent vehicles from accessing it.

City staff was apparently not aware of the accident. A couple of parks department staff members who oversee planning and maintenance of Hamilton trails, including Cootes Drive Trail, said they were not aware of any problems near the intersection of Cootes and Olympic Drive, or previous instances of vehicles turning onto the pathway from Olympic Drive.

"No vehicles are allowed on any parkland or trails under the the park bylaws, except city service vehicles and (Emergency Medical Service), unless granted permission by the City," said Al Dore, manager of parks operations and maintenance.

http://www.dundasstarnews.com/news/article/127546

bridging community

Transportation for Liveable Communities
A Working Group of the Ontario Public Interest Research Group (OPIRG) McMaster
tlchamilton@gmail.com
905-525-9140 ext. 26026
tlchamilton.org

May 7, 2008

Justin Readman, B.Sc.(Env.)
Project Manager, Environmental Planning
Capital Planning & Implementation
Public Works, City of Hamilton

Dear Mr. Readman

I am writing on behalf of Transportation for Liveable Communities (TLC), a group committed to improving Hamilton's neighbourhoods by promoting healthy and efficient transportation.

TLC would first like to commend the Department of Public Works for continually addressing the need for pedestrian friendly infrastructure. The recently completed Mary St. bridge and the east end escarpment staircase are projects that link streets and neighbourhoods, increasing opportunities for exercise, interaction and efficient transportation. The Transportation Master Plan also identifies obstacles to pedestrian movement and aims to increase walking as a choice mode of transportation through more such infrastructure, particularly over the LINC and QEW. Clearly, the City places a high value on walkability.

Pedestrian bridges over railway tracks not only provide connectivity within a neighbourhood but also a scenic element. The Kirkendall neighbourhood is one of Lower Hamilton's great assets, boasting short, walkable streets, architectural diversity and a railway which did not, until recently, divide the neighbourhood, but rather added its own character.

Having reviewed the first report in the Poulette / Pearl / Ray Pedestrian Bridge Master Plan, we must object to the consultant's recommendations of options to be carried forward.

Firstly, Option B, to allow further deterioration of the structure until removal is necessary, should not be considered. Any decision that could potentially remove this last remaining pedestrian crossing would be counter to the City's objectives. This option should be modified to include replacement of the bridge at whatever time it is deemed unsafe. The elimination of this crossing could also cause great inconvenience to less able-bodied residents of this neighbourhood such as seniors and children who walk to all destinations.

Secondly, TLC objects to the report's dismissal of bridges at Ray and Poulette Streets as redundant. The consultant claims that because of their proximity or 400m to the nearest existing crossing, the resultant increase in travel time of 3 minutes is acceptable. Consider the placement of full roadway bridges at Queen, Locke and Dundurn Streets. Their spacing is 1 km apart, or 1.2 minutes at the speed limit of 50km/h. We do not question the necessity of vehicular crossings at this frequency, but would however raise the point that the cost of pedestrian crossings is a minute fraction of that of vehicular crossings. The recently rebuilt Dundurn St. bridge, for example, cost $2.2M. One pedestrian bridge between Locke and Dundurn Streets, as stated by the consultant's report to the City, would cost one tenth that amount to build.

In 1895 when the TH&B rail line first cut through this neighbourhood, the City of Hamilton Bylaw No. 755 stipulated that bridges must be built at Garth (now Dundurn), Poulette, Locke, Pearl and Ray Streets - that is, every street the railway crossed before it entered the tunnel at Queen St. The transportation needs of this area's residents, primarily pedestrians, were accounted for. Given that Public Works aims to decrease automobile mode share while increasing walking and cycling mode share, it is only logical that our pedestrian infrastructure be at least as extensive as it was 100 years ago.

We trust that the elimination of the Pearl Street Bridge will not be considered by Public Works, and that the re-establishment of pedestrian connectivity throughout Kirkendall and elsewhere will be considered in future plans.

Sincerely,

Jon Dalton, for Transportation for Liveable Communities

FRID FLIP

May 5, 2008

Mayor Eisenberger and Councilors
City of Hamilton


Dear Mayor and councilors,


I am writing on behalf of “Transportation for Liveable Communities” (TLC), a working group of the Ontario Public Research Interest Group (OPIRG) at McMaster University.

TLC members are alarmed that the construction plans for the McMaster Innovation Park at the Kirkendall neighbourhood include a road that shows little attention to pedestrian and cycling, and instead serves the car to the detriment of active transportation.

We are referring to plans presented at Public Information Centre (PIC) # 2 for Frid St extension on April 1, 2008 and on the internet at the “Frid Street Extension Municipal Class EA”. What we saw at the PIC were plans in striking contrast to formerly articulated plans for “Greenspace, pedestrian and cycling links connecting the site to larger open space networks” as indicated in the Kirkendall neighbourhood traffic management study.

Where, indeed, is the Kirkendall neighbourhood traffic management study emphasis on “Integrated urban transportation systems which promote non-auto travel modes, and pedestrian and vehicular circulation”?

TLC requests that the Mayor and councilors instruct city staff to dramatically re-design the plans so that principles established in earlier public consultations are respected. We further request that the modified plans be subjected to additional public consultation.

Details like continuous sidewalks on both sides of the road, 2m-wide marked bicycle lanes on both sides of the road, and narrow (3.5m) road lanes for cars, median trees, and traffic calming pedestrian enhancements such as curb bulb outs at pedestrian crossings should be part of the design. We also question the need for the middle turn lane for automobiles for the entire length of the planned roadway.

The design should embrace opportunities to introduce traffic circles at the section between Chatham and Longwood to help reduce automobile speed and enhance the community feeling of the McMaster Innovation Park.

The intersection of Frid and Chatham should have 90 degree turning radii and curb extensions. The current drawings suggest wide turning lanes that promote speeding by turning vehicles. An alternative may be a traffic circle.

Finally, we request that, according with the spirit of the Kirkendall neighbourhood traffic management study, the name of the project for the connecting road between Chatham St and Longwood Rd will be Chatham St rather than Frid St. This would emphasize the connection of the McMaster Innovation Park to the residential neighborhoods on its east side.

I should note that TLC members and local residents are upset about the current plans and will consider further public and other actions if our reasonable requests are not met.

TLC members look forward to hearing from you about design changes.

governor's walk-about

Three school stretch reviewed for Safe Kids Week

Craig Campbell, Dundas Star News, Published on May 02, 2008

A community safety walk of Governor's Road will mark Canada's Safe Kids Week.

The walkabout to assess pedestrian and cyclist safety on the stretch of Governor's Road near two elementary schools and one high school will be hosted by Transportation for Livable Communities. It's one of about 1,000 community projects being held in the last week of May in a program organized by Safe Kids Canada.

Anyone interested in participating is welcome to meet in front of St. Bernadette Catholic Elementary School at 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, May 29.

Safe Kids Week project leader Denyse Boxell said participants hosting their own event are encouraged to download the Safe Kids Canada pedestrian safety guide and use it to assist in their own assessment.

The Safe Kids Canada Web site also offers a four-page community walkabout scoresheet for community groups to use during their assessments.

The scoresheet includes 16 different questions; each is allocated one point for a 'no' answer, two points for 'sometimes', three for 'yes' and zero points for 'don't know'.

Questions include: Can streets be easily, safely and conveniently crossed? Do drivers drive the speed limit? Do sidewalks exist? Are sidewalks well maintained? Are there traffic calming measures?

Each question includes teaching or discussion points to help assess that particular question, or safety indicator.

A total score for the walkabout below 17 points is assessed with the statement "Community needs to make considerable effort to create pedestrian friendly environment."

A score in the range of 17 to 32 points is defined as pedestrian friendly in some areas, but needing more work in others. And a score of 33 or more points is considered "very pedestrian friendly."

Ms. Boxell said Safe Kids Canada will provide further support and education to any community group that requests it.

"We lobby local and provincial governments to make pedestrian safety better," she said.

But local groups must take the lead role in their own community, and reach out to Safe Kids Canada to receive resources or other forms of support.

Ms. Boxell said a group can contact the national organization with information on a particular pedestrian concern, their findings and their efforts, and Safe Kids Canada can provide a letter supporting the group's effort, or training, information and documents to help improve pedestrian safety.

For more information: www.sickkids.ca/safekidscanada or http://governorsroad.blogspot.com.


http://www.dundasstarnews.com/news/article/126715

speed up

10 km increase approved for Cootes

Sign will show drivers how fast they travel

Craig Campbell

Published on May 02, 2008

McMaster University hopes to attach a speed measurement sign to a bridge over Cootes Drive soon, as the City of Hamilton finalizes a 10-kilometer per hour increase to a controversial stretch of road.

City Council supported a motion by Dundas' Russ Powers, last Wednesday, to increase the speed limit around Cootes and a pedestrian controlled crossing at Sanders Boulevard from 40 to 50 km-h.

The new speed zone will stretch 888 metres north, towards Dundas, from Main Street West.

Once the official bylaw is signed by Mayor Fred Eisenberger and sent to the city's traffic engineering and operations department, the increase will mark the third speed limit at the location within the past year.

The speed dropped from 60 to 40 km-h last spring, before its upcoming move to 50 km-h.

City studies showed the change had little effect on driver behaviour, as most cars continued to travel above the original 60 km-h limit.

Hart Solomon, manager of traffic engineering, said the speed limit increase will be co-ordinated with McMaster's installation of a speed sign on the bridge they own over Cootes Drive.

And Terry Sullivan, director of security and parking services at Mcmaster, said the solar powered sign has been delivered and almost ready to put up.

"It will show your speed and the speed it should be," Mr. Sullivan said.

McMaster and the city are sharing the cost of the sign and its installation.

A former Hamilton Police Service superintendent for the division that served Dundas, Mr. Sullivan compared the sign to the small versions seen at some road construction sites, showing drivers if they are travelling above the recommended speed.

"Some say they're ineffective and some say they are effective," he said. "When I go through construction zones with them, I'm always alert.

"It's going to be an extra reminder."

The former police officer supports city council's decision to raise the limit halfway to its former rate.

"I think it was an appropriate response," Mr. Sullivan said. "I think 50 is a good compromise. We're looking forward to that."

Transportation for Liveable Communities, a transit, pedestrian and cyclist interest group based at McMaster, supported the 50 km-h compromise, as long as other recommendations from a 2004 consultant's study were also introduced.

Synectics Transportation Consultants recommended not only the pedestrian controlled crossing that was later adopted, but also a number of other changes to decrease the "hazardous" rate of speed discovered.

Randy Kay, a Dundas resident and TLC member, said a few weeks ago the 50 km-h limit appeared to be the politically acceptable compromise, but even with such a change drivers "will still be speeding at whatever feels comfortable."

http://www.dundasstarnews.com/news/article/126670

Bike Racks on Buses GO further

Soon you can bike and GO by bus

GO Buses in the Hamilton corridor will soon be sporting bike racks, and eventually you'll be able to bring your bike on buses across the system. The user-friendly racks allow you to load and unload your bike yourself. We're introducing bus bike racks to encourage customers to combine cycling with public transit for a healthier lifestyle and community.

Download a PDF of the Spring 2008 issue of GO News: http://gotransit.com/PUBLIC/en/publications/GONews_spring_08_web.pdf

York Statement: Bikes belong

City cutting lanes on York to make room for bikes TheSpec.com - BreakingNews - City cutting lanes on York to make room for bikes

The Hamilton Spectator

Work is under way to create bike lanes on York Boulevard.
The speed limit along the city entrance has already been reduced from 70 km/h to 50 as part of the transformation.
Crews are sandblasting the existing painted lines to make room for a new dedicated bike route and realigned traffic lanes.
There will still be four lanes for cars from Dundurn Street to the Highway 403 ramps. Beyond the High Level Bridge to Burlington, where the speed limit remains 70 km/h, traffic lanes will be reduced from four to two.
The project, which has been in the works for more than three years, is intended to encourage more residents to use alternative transportation.
“It makes a statement about the kind of city that we are,” said Hart Solomon, manager of traffic engineering and operations.

http://www.thespec.com/News/BreakingNews/article/361222

green door

Thanks to the organizers of the monthly Red Door open mic sessions at St. Paul's Anglican Church in Westdale for inviting TLC to have a display and to say a few words about our group to the assembled talents tonight (April 26, 2008).

Fair Trade coffee, tea, baked goods, samosas, and plenty of talented musicians, poets and knitters to make the time pass easily, TLC distributed several city of Hamilton cycling route maps, and got to discuss some city issues with people in attendance.

Photo by Richard Dominick

60, 40, 50, but 70

Speed limit increasing, but go slow anyway TheSpec.com - Local - Speed limit increasing, but go slow anyway

The Hamilton Spectator, (Apr 26, 2008)

The city is upping the speed limit on Cootes Drive after reducing it for public safety a year ago.

The limit of 40 kilometres an hour, reduced from 60 last May, was just too slow, said Councillor Russ Powers, chair of the public works committee.

"It's an unreasonable speed," he said, noting police handed out numerous speeding tickets. "Nobody drove 40."

As a compromise, the limit is being increased to 50 km/h.

Powers said McMaster and the city have also agreed to split the cost of installing a speed meter on the bridge over the road to tell drivers how fast they are going as they drive in from Dundas. The device costs roughly $25,000.

The city, police and the university have been working to make the pedestrian crossing on Cootes safer. Mac student Heather Watson, 19, was killed at the crossing in 2006.

BRT or LRT? that is the question...

May 1, 2008: BRT or LRT? Comparing Alternatives, with Lessons from Waterloo Region

Public meeting and panel discussion.

Date: May 1, 2008
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: The FRWY Cafe
Address: 333 King St. E. (at Wellington St. N.) Hamilton ON L8N 1C1
Admission: free

Presenters

* Jillian Stephen, Manager, Strategic Planning, Public Works Department, City of Hamilton
* Becky Schlenvogt, Principal Planner, Transportation Planning, Region of Waterloo
* Bob Bratina, Ward 2 Councillor (MC)

Hamilton has a critical decision to make: when we build our new higher order transit systems, will we choose bus rapid transit (BRT) or light rail transit (LRT)? What's the difference? Which choice is better?

Jillian Stephen will present an overview of the rapid transit initiative and explain how to contribute to the public consultations. Then Hamilton Light Rail will show a presentation on LRT.

Keynote speaker Becky Schlenvogt will briefly discuss Waterloo Region's evaluation criteria and explain the differences between BRT and LRT.

A panel discussion will follow, during which the presenters will take questions from the audience.

There may never be a better opportunity for Hamilton to build a modern transportation system and enjoy the benefits of increased ridership, new investment, and improved quality of life.

Please come out to this important meeting.

Co-sponsored by Hamilton Light Rail (http://hamiltonlightrail.com) and Transit Users Group (http://hamiltontug.com).

For media inquiries, please contact Nicholas Kevlahan at email: kevlahan@gmail.com.

Site specific

You are welcome to attend a Community "Walk-About" at Governor's Road, Thursday, May 29, 2008.

Meet participants including city traffic staff, public health officials, politicians, parents and children at 3:15 at Governor's Road outside St Bernadette's school, 270 Governor's Road, Dundas ON.


View Larger Map

This event will be a feet and wheels on the ground opportunity to examine the area from a non-automotive perspective.

The aim is to bring to light some of the traffic safety issues effecting pedestrians and cyclists on this road. A facilitated de-brief will conclude the hour or so walk, to be conducted at Sir William Osler school (330 Governor's Road at Bridlewood)

The aim is to bring together recommendations to enhance the area for walkers and cyclists, including the many children and young adults attending the three schools in the immediate area, and area residents.

TLC received a grant from Safe Kids Canada to bring about this event as part of Safe Kids Week 2008.

Come out if you are interested in making this area safe for all!

how about a critical mass in formal attire?

The Copenhagen Cycle Chic Manifesto.

- I choose to cycle chic and, at every opportunity, I will choose Style over Speed.

- I embrace my responsibility to contribute visually to a more aesthetically pleasing urban landscape.

- I am aware that my mere prescence in said urban landscape will inspire others without me being labelled as a 'bicycle activist'.

- I will ride with grace, elegance and dignity.

- I will choose a bicycle that reflects my personality and style.

- I will, however, regard my bicycle as transport and as a mere supplement to my own personal style. Allowing my bike to upstage me is unacceptable.

- I will endeavour to ensure that the total value of my clothes always exceeds that of my bicycle.

- I will accessorize in accordance with the standards of a bicycle culture and acquire, where possible, a chain guard, kickstand, skirt guard, fenders, bell and basket.

- I will respect the traffic laws.

- I will refrain from wearing and owning any form of 'cycle wear'. The only exception being a bicycle helmet - if I choose to exercise my freedom of personal choice and wear one.

FROM http://copenhagengirlsonbikes.blogspot.com/

survey says...

Survey supports current Cootes speed limit
Police believe increase is on the way

By Craig Campbell, Dundas Star News

Apr 11, 2008

A majority of people who responded to an on-line survey about the pedestrian-controlled traffic lights on Cootes Drive support keeping the current 40 km-h speed limit, and adding a pedestrian countdown display to the walk signal.

But Hamilton Police expect the city will soon raise the limit from 40 to 50 km-h. Police apparently have no records of speed enforcement on Cootes Drive just south of Main Street West.

Recent city studies found last summer's speed limit drop had no effect on speeding drivers. A total of 239 people answered at least part of the five question survey.

The current speed limit was preferred by 102 people, or 44 per cent of those who answered the first question, asking which of three speeds the limit at the crossing should be. An anticipated increase to 50 km-h was supported by 29 per cent, while 26 per cent backed a return to the previous limit of 60 km-h.

Just over 80 per cent of those surveyed said they support a digital countdown display for pedestrians.

Although 71 per cent of pedestrians said the wait time for the walk signal is fine as it is, nearly half (44.9 per cent) admitted crossing when there is a break in traffic, rather than waiting for the right-of-way.

That left just over 57 per cent of respondents saying they normally wait for the walk signal before crossing Cootes Drive.

Sgt. Jo Ann Savoie, current crime manager for the West Town zone, said she had been briefed by another officer who attended a meeting about the Cootes speed limit last month. A year ago, previous crime manager Sgt. Tim O'Keefe acknowledged a speeding problem on Cootes Drive and suggested an unofficial enforcment blitz at the time may become common on Cootes Drive.

"Don't be surprised if you hear more news about this spot, because when police officers find a successful spot, they habitually return there," Sgt. O'Keefe said last June.

But since the speed limit dropped to 50 km-h, there's been no evidence of a police presence.

"It's something we don't track," Sgt. Savoie said, when asked if there was any information about speed enforcement on Cootes just south of Main Street West since June.

A 2004 study of Cootes Drive safety by Synectics Transportation Consultants found 85 per cent of drivers travelled up to 100 km-h in the posted 80 km-h zone.

Subsequent studies show lowering the posted limit to 60 and 40 km-h had no effect on that rate of speed.

Synectics found the excessive speeding and high volume of pedestrians and cyclists "create a potentially hazardous situation."

The study recommended a pedestrian-controlled crossing of Cootes Drive, at Sanders Boulevard, lane narrowing, other changes to the roadside to decrease speeding and increased police enforcement.

Originally, the city only adopted the recommended pedestrian-controlled crossing and none of the other suggestions were acted on.

Just a few months after the pedestrian crossing started operating, a McMaster student was struck and killed by a truck in the crosswalk.

The city lowered the speed limit around the crosswalk to 40 km-h and dropped the approaching limit from 80 to 60 km-h, without following any of the other recommendations from the Synectics study.

Dundas resident Randy Kay, of Transportation for Liveable Communities, has called on the city to make the other recommended changes in addition to the crossing and speed lowering.

The group also supports a pedestrian countdown signal, letting walkers and cyclists know how much time they have to get to the other side of Cootes.

"I have no idea where the speed discussion is at," Mr. Kay said this week.

"The compromise politically was looking like 50 km-h but, really, without changes to the roadside environment, cars will still be speeding at whatever feels comfortable."

Hart Solomon, the city's manager of traffic engineering and operations, said this week no final decision on a possible speed increase has been made.

metronauts mcmaster may 3

Metronauts pave the way of the future TheSpec.com - Local - Metronauts pave the way of the future

Erika Engel
Special to The Hamilton Spectator (Apr 16, 2008)

Metrolinx is releasing a long-term regional transportation plan this fall, and the transit body wants to know what you think about it.

It's launched a new project called Metronauts to include the general public in transportation discussion and planning.

Metronauts is a joint effort between Metrolinx (formerly the Greater Toronto Transportation Authority) and the Toronto Transit Camp community, a grassroots movement that started online with the goal of improving the TTC, then organized its own brainstorming event last year.

A series of informal Metronauts gatherings will be held across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton areas -- including an all-day event in Hamilton on May 3 -- to get the public's thoughts on transportation.

Topics at the first Metronauts meeting held in Toronto on April 5 included social networking, cycle paths, sidewalks and improvements to train stations.

Area residents can also join the debate online. On the Metronauts website, launched March 25, site members can share their thoughts on the drafts of the regional transportation plan, or other transportation ideas, in the conversations section. Membership is free.

Metrolinx has plans to add an interactive map function so members can virtually trace out their ideas for bicycle routes, new sidewalks, and extra roads, lanes and bus routes in their city, said Colleen Bell of Metrolinx.

The Hamilton meeting will be held at McMaster University from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more details, see the Metronauts website (metronauts.ca).

Hamilton residents can also attend the Metrolinx public meeting on June 26 from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Hamilton Convention Centre.

MIP STRIP

April 13, 2008

Ms. Larissa Skrypniak
City of Hamilton

Dear Ms Skrypniak,

RE: TLC Comments on Frid St extension PIC #2

I am writing on behalf of “Transportation for Liveable Communities” (TLC), a working group of McMaster’s chapter of OPIRG (Ontario Public Research Interest Group).

TLC members have thoroughly examined the information provided at the PIC # 2 for Frid St extension and found the proposed design unacceptable because it is in stark contrast to the explicit transportation guiding principles for the Kirkendall neighbourhood traffic management study, which clearly highlight “Integrated urban transportation systems which promote non-auto travel modes, and pedestrian and vehicular circulation”.

The current plan as presented in the PIC is for a strip-mall like development that is anything but “Greenspace, pedestrian and cycling links connecting the site to larger open space networks” as indicated in the Kirkendall neighbourhood traffic management study.

TLC requests a dramatic re-design of the plans so they would follow the principles established in earlier public consultations. We further request that the modified plans will be subjected to public consultation in an additional PIC.

Specifically, we strongly object to the automobile-obsessed plans and request the following throughout all 3 sections of the road:

• A maximum of 2 automobile lanes, each 3.5 m wide.
• No middle turning lane for automobiles.
• Sidewalks at least 3 m wide on BOTH sides of the street at all sections.
• Marked bike lanes, at least 2 m wide on both sides of the road.
• Parking lanes only where it is safe.
• Curb extensions at any pedestrian crossings.
• A median landscaped with trees.
• A couple traffic circles at the section between Chatham and Longwood would help reduce automobile speed and enhance the community feeling of the McMaster Innovation Park.
• The intersection of Frid and Chatham should have 90 degree turning radii and curb extensions. The current drawings suggest wide turning lanes that promote speeding by turning vehicles. An alternative may be a traffic circle.

Finally, we request that, according with the spirit of the Kirkendall neighbourhood traffic management study, the name of the project for the connecting road between Chatham St and Longwood Rd will be Chatham St rather than Frid St. This would emphasize the connection of the McMaster Innovation Park to the residential neighborhoods on its east side.

I should note that TLC members and local residents are upset about the current plans and consider further public and other actions if our reasonable requests are not met.

TLC members look forward to hearing from you about design changes.


Sincerely yours,

Reuven Dukas, For TLC.

hot dog (Joe)

Well, five winners from the Cootes Drive survey draw are now (or are soon to be) slurping hot fair trade, organic and bird friendly coffee (or tea) at My Dog Joe: they are:

• Tings Chak
• Max Gomes
• Lise Huynh
• Eugene Khayutin
• David Thompson
  

Congratulations to the winners, and thanks again for My Dog Joe for making the prize coupons available.

Cootes Pedestrian Crossing Survey results here.

art car causes civil disturbance

This is such a cute story, where art and pedal-power "car" meet the police. Video at the Toronto Star web site:
http://www.thestar.com/fpLarge/video/409354

Go Young Workers!

Young Hamilton workers are "green" commuters TheSpec.com - BreakingNews - Young Hamilton workers are "green" commuters

OTTAWA - Young workers in the Hamilton region are more likely to pick "green" commuting options than their older co-workers, the latest census information shows.

Statistics Canada has released new data Wednesday from the 2006 census that gives more details about how people in the Hamilton region most often get to work and how far they travel.

Workers under the age of 25 in the Hamilton region use public transit 14.3 per cent of the time, while a further 10.5 per cent walk and 1.9 per cent use a bike.

That's a considerably higher reliance on environmentally friendly means of getting to work than the average commuter in the Hamilton region, who commutes by public transit 8.7 per cent of the time, by foot 5.0 per cent of the time and 0.9 per cent by bike.

The reliance on the car in the Hamilton region seems to increase as the age of commuters gets older.

Commuters under the age of 25 used a vehicle to get to work - either as a driver or a passenger - 72.4 per cent of the time. Those aged 25-34 commuted by car most often 84.0 per cent of the time and those 35 and over drove or were driven 87.9 per cent of the time.

The census doesn't ask commuters why they chose their mode of transportation, so it's not known if younger workers pick greener commuting options because of their concern for the environment or whether their choice was related more to financial considerations.

Dan McDermott, director of Ontario's chapter of the Sierra Club of Canada, says owning a car used to be a rite of passage for young people, but enviromental awareness in that generation has made gas guzzlers uncool. The high cost of gasoline is another factor for those with limited incomes.

"The desire to own a car is diminishing for a number of reasons, environmental consciousness being high on that list," said McDermott.

"Certainly, economic reality weighs in as well and with gas scheduled to hit $1.50 a litre, that makes the question about buying a car one that young people on limited resources will look long and hard at before making that choice."

Statistics Canada released initial information on commuting in the country's major metropolitan region last month. The new information breaks down the data further to the municipal level.

In the city of Hamilton, 9.3 per cent of workers use public transit while 83.5 per cent get to the job by car.

The median commuting distance for people in the city of Hamilton is 7.8 kilometres, meaning the point where one half of the city's population travels more than that distance and the other half travels less. Commuting distance is measured on a straight line from home to work, not the actual route travelled, which for most commuters would be longer.

http://thespec.com/News/BreakingNews/article/348567

results?

The results of the Cootes Drive crossing are in, available as a pdf here.
Clearly a countdown signal is preferred (80%) at the location, and 40 km/h the desired speed limit.
Less clear is this: what will the Cootes crossing users get from the city?
At this point there doesn't seem to by any interest in "traffic calming" i.e. fulfilling the recommended speed reduction by narrowing lanes and changing the roadside environment put forward by Synectics.
After an initial refusal to consider a countdown signal for the pedestrian crossing, there may be a willingness to rethink it from the city.
We were hoping to put this whole issue to bed, but it continues to defy closure.