Mr. Dean Morais reads his written statement in support of the multiuse trail. A copy of his written statement is submitted to the Clerk's office.
The Mayor opens the floor for questions from the Members.
A Member inquires about the options presented and if there is a hybrid option. Mr. Brezaire outlines the options and the costs associated. The Director Public Works & Environmental Services comments the timelines of road reconstruction on Riverside Drive that the 2019 Roads Needs Study identified a few sections of Riverside Drive that would need maintenance within the 6 to10 year timeframe, but that the full reconstruction of Riverside Drive is not within the 5 to 10-year horizon.
The discussion ensues over the location of the trail and consideration to the north side of the street. Ms. Winters comments on a cycle track suggestion and the provincial guidelines (Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM) Book 18) required for this option.
A Member inquires if Administration had any comments on the content of the Re-Think the Trail flyer. The Director Public Works & Environmental Services indicated that one of the biggest challenges as part of this project has been the amount of misinformation that is being circulated on websites, flyers and social media. He notes that some information is being presented out of context to suit a false narrative that the Town or its Consultants haven’t done due diligence with respect to the recommendations brought forward. He advises that the Town has completed numerous studies and master plans that have identified the need for a multiuse trail on Riverside Drive as outlined in Report PWES-2021-04 as appended on the agenda. The Director explains that the steps the Town has taken to date have followed the normal process and is consistent with best practices for this type of project. He notes that the Consultant’s presentation spoke to the process followed, provides a rationale supporting their decisions and final recommendations; and addresses and responds to the concerns raised.
In response to an inquiry regarding when the details of specific landscape items may be impacted, the Director explains that the plan to date is preliminary and that additional details specific to individual landscaping features would be identified during the detailed design stage of the project, and that further consultation with the affected properties would occur.