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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-10-28 Council Meeting Agenda and Reports.pdfCity of Maple Ridge COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA October 28, 2014 7:00 p.m. Council Chamber MEETING DECORUM Council would like to remind all people present tonight that serious issues are decided at Council meetings which affect many people's lives. Therefore, we ask that you act with the appropriate decorum that a Council Meeting deserves. Commentary and conversations by the public are distracting. Should anyone disrupt the Council Meeting in any way, the meeting will be stopped and that person's behavior will be reprimanded. Note: This Agenda is also posted on the City's Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca The purpose of a Council meeting is to enact powers given to Council by using bylaws or resolutions. This is the final venue for debate of issues before voting on a bylaw or resolution. 100 CALL TO ORDER 200 MOMENT OF REFLECTION 300 INTRODUCTION OFADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS 400 APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA 500 ADOPTION AND RECEIPT OF MINUTES 501 Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of October 14, 2014 502 Minutes to the Public Hearing of October 21, 2014 503 Minutes of the Development Agreements Committee Meetings of October 14, and 21, 2014. 600 PRESENTATIONS AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCIL Page 1 Council MeetingAgenda October 28, 2014 Council Chamber Page 2 of 9 700 DELEGATIONS 701 Ridge Meadows Recycling Presentation • Carol Botting, President 702 Maple Ridge Community Heritage Commission Update • Brenda Smith, Chair 800 UNFINISHED BUSINESS Note: Item 801 was forwarded from the October 20, 2014 Council Workshop Meeting 801 Development Service Resources Staff report dated October 20, 2014. Amended recommendation forwarded from Council is: That staff be directed to implement the addition of 4 new positions in Development Processing as detailed in the staff report dated October 20, 2014; and further That funds be utilized from the Building Inspections Reserve account for 2015 and 2016 to implement the addition of the 4 new positions in Development Processing and that Council review and approve the source of funding for subsequent years during 2015. 900 CORRESPONDENCE 1000 BYLAWS Note: Items 1001 to 1002 are from the October 21, 2014 Public Hearing Bvlaws for Third Readin� 1001 2013-103-RZ, 12366 Laity Street Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7042-2013 To rezone from RS-1 (One Family Urban Residential) to R-1 (Residential District) to permit subdivision of 4 lots in the first phase and 2 lots in a second phase Third reading Council MeetingAgenda October 28, 2014 Council Chamber Page 3 of 9 Bvlaws for Final Readin� 1002 2012-036-CP, Wildfire Development Permit Guidelines 1002.1 Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7101-2014 To add Wildfire Development Permit Guidelines Third and final reading 1002.2 Maple Ridge Development Procedures Amending Bylaw No. 7102-2014 To add a Wildfire Development Permit application Final reading 1003 Capital Improvement Program Update, 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7106-2014 To reflect changes to the Capital Improvement Program and operating cost u pdates Final Reading 1004 Employment Land Incentive Program and Town Centre Investment Program E�ension 1004.1 Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Bylaw No. 7112-2014 To establish a revitalization program to encourage accelerated private sector investment on employment lands Final Reading 1004.2 Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Program Amending Bylaw No. 7109-2014 To extend the Town Centre Investment Incentive Program for two years Final Reading 1004.3 Maple Ridge Off-Street Parking and Loading Amending Bylaw No. 7110-2014 To extend the reduced parking standards in Sub Area 1 as shown on Schedule D of the Bylaw Final Reading Council MeetingAgenda October 28, 2014 Council Chamber Page 4 of 9 COMMITTEE REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 1100 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 1100 Minutes - October 20, 2014 The following issues were presented at an earlier Committee of the Whole meeting with the recommendations being brought to this meeting for City Council consideration and final approvaL The Committee of the Whole meeting is open to the public and is held in the Council Chamber at 1:00 p.m. on the Monday the week prior to this meeting. Public Works and Development Services 1101 Application to Exclude Land from the Agricultural Land Reserve, 25638 and 25676 112 Avenue Staff report dated October 20, 2014 providing resolutions for Council's consideration and recommending that Application 2014-060-AL be forwarded to the Agricultural Land Commission. 1102 2014-074-CU, 22245 Lougheed Highway Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7108-2014 to temporarily allow CS-1 (Service Commercial) uses in an existing building on a C-3 (Town Centre Commercial) zoned property. 1103 2012-004-RZ, 23791112 Avenue, RS-3 to R-1 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7111-2014 to rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) to R-1(Residential District) to permit approximately 16 single family residents lots be given first reading and that the applicant provide further information as described on Schedules A, B, F and G of the Development Procedures Bylaw No. 5879-1999, along with a Subdivision application. Council MeetingAgenda October 28, 2014 Council Chamber Page 5 of 9 1104 2014-091-RZ, 12420 Ansell Street, RS-3 to RS-2 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7115-2014 to rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) to RS-2 (One Family Suburban Residential) to allow for a two lot subdivision be given first reading and that the applicant provide further information as described on Schedule B of the Development Procedures Bylaw No. 5879-1999, along with information required for a Subdivision application. 1105 2012-119-RZ, 24108104 Avenue and 10336 240A Street, RS-3 and RS-2 to RM-1 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 6969-2013 to rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) and RS-2 (One Family Suburban Residential) to RM-1 (Townhouse Residential) to permit future development of 97 townhouse units be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing. 1106 2014-023-RZ, 21434 121 Avenue, RS-1b to R-1 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7074-2014 to rezone from RS-1b (One Family Urban [Medium Density] Residential) to R-1 (Residential District) to permit future subdivision into two single family lots be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing. 1107 2014-043-RZ, 13065 Katonien Street, Text Amendment Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7090-2014 to permit a site-specific text amendment to the M-2 (General Industrial) zone to permit an "Indoor Mountain and BMX Biking Facility" be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing and that a parking study be submitted prior to final reading. 1108 RZ/021/04, 20870 Lougheed Highway, Final One Year Extension Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that rezoning application RZ/021/04 to rezone from RS-1 (One Family Urban Residential) to CS-1 (Service Commercial) to permit mobile equipment storage and improve internal circulation for the existing equipment rental business be granted a final one year extension. Council MeetingAgenda October 28, 2014 Council Chamber Page 6 of 9 1109 2011-089-RZ, 22309, 22319 and 22331 St. Anne Avenue, Final One Year Extension Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that rezoning application 2011-089-RZ to permit the relocation, restoration and adaptive re-use of an existing heritage house into a duplex and construction of a 66 unit four-storey multi-family apartment complex be granted a final one year extension. 1110 2012-038-SD, 12116 and 12170 204B Street, Money in Lieu of Parkland Dedication Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that the owner of land proposed for subdivision at 12116 and 12170 204B Street pay an amount that is not less than $26,500.00. Financial and Corporate Services (including Fire and Police� 1131 Maple Ridge Development Cost Charge Reserve Fund Expenditure Amending Bylaw No. 7116-2014 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Development Cost Charge ("DCC") Reserve Fund Expenditure Amending Bylaw No. 7116-2014 to authorize the expenditure of funds from the DCC Reserve Fund be given first, second and third readings. 1132 Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreements Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that the Corporate Officer be authorized to execute Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreements with the qualified property owners as listed in Appendix A of the report. 1133 Disbursements for the month ended September 30, 2014 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that the disbursements for the month ended September 30, 2014 be approved. 1134 2014 Council Expenses Staff report dated October 20, 2014 providing Council expenses for 2014 updated to the end of September 2014. Council MeetingAgenda October 28, 2014 Council Chamber Page 7 of 9 Community Development and Recreation Service 1151 Joint Leisure Services Review Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that the recommendations in the Joint Parks and Leisure Services Model Review report dated July 31, 2014 prepared by Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. and the implementation approach described in the staff report be endorsed. Correspondence 1171 Other Committee Issues 1181 1200 STAFF REPORTS 1201 October 2014 Final Report - Strategic Transportation Plan Staff report dated October 28, 2014 recommending that the October 2014 Final Report - Strategic Transportation Plan be endorsed and that staff be directed to complete an implementation plan prioritizing the strategies identified in the plan. 1202 2015 UBCM Age Friendly Community Planning and Projects Grant Application Staff report dated October 28, 2014 recommending that the 2015 Union of B.C. Municipalities' Age-Friendly Community Planning and Project Grant application be endorsed. 1300 RELEASE OF ITEMS FROM CLOSED COUNCIL 1301 October 20, 2014 Closed Council o Social Planning Advisory Committee - Term Appointment o Economic Advisory Commission Appointment o Downtown District Lands - 119 Avenue Council MeetingAgenda October 28, 2014 Council Chamber Page 8 of 9 1400 MAYOR'S REPORT 1500 COUNCILLORS' REPORTS 1600 OTHER MATTERS DEEMED EXPEDIENT 1700 NOTICES OF MOTION AND MATTERS FOR FUTURE MEETING 1800 QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC 1900 ADJOURNMENT Council MeetingAgenda October 28, 2014 Council Chamber Page 9 of 9 QUESTION PERIOD The purpose of the Question Period is to provide the public with an opportunity to ask questions of Council on items that are of concern to them, with the exception of Public Hearing by-laws which have not yet reached conclusion. Council will not tolerate any derogatory remarks directed at Council or staff members. Each person will be permitted 2 minutes to ask their question (a second opportunity is permitted if no one else is sitting in the chairs in front of the podium). Questions must be directed to the Chair of the meeting and not to individual members of Council. The total Question Period is limited to 15 minutes. Council reserves the right to defer responding to a question in order to obtain the information required to provide a complete and accurate response. Other opportunities are available to address Council including public hearings, delegations and community forum. The public may also make their views known to Council by writing or via email and by attending open houses, workshops and information meetings. Serving on an Advisory Committee is an excellent way to have a voice in the future of this community. For more information on these opportunities contact: Clerk's Department at 604-463-5221 or clerks@mapleridge.ca. Mayor and Council at mayorandcouncil@mapleridge.ca. Checked by: Date: City of Maple Ridge COUNCIL MEETING October 14, 2014 The Minutes of the City Council Meeting held on October 14, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber of the City Hall, 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, British Columbia for the purpose of transacting regular City business. PRESENT Elected Officials Appointed Staff Mayor E. Daykin J. Rule, Chief Administrative Officer Councillor C. Ashlie K. Swift, General Manager of Community Development, Councillor C. Bell Parks and Recreation Services Councillor J. Dueck P. Gill, General Manager Corporate and Financial Services Councillor A. Hogarth F. Quinn, General Manager Public Works and Development Councillor B. Masse Services Councillor M. Morden C. Carter, Director of Planning C. Marlo, Manager of Legislative Services A. Gaunt, Confidential Secretary Other Staff as Required L. Benson, Manager of Sustainability and Corporate Planning Note: These Minutes are also posted on the City's Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca The meeting was filmed by Shaw Communications Inc. and recorded by the City of Maple Ridge 100 CALL TO ORDER 200 MOMENT OF REFLECTION 300 INTRODUCTION OFADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS 400 APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA The agenda was approved with an amendment to include item 1132 with item 601. 501 Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 2 of 17 500 ADOPTION AND RECEIPT OF MINUTES 501 Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of September 30, 2014 R/2014-430 501 Minutes Regular Council It was moved and seconded September 30, 2014 That the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of September 30, 2014 be adopted as circulated CARRIED Note: Councillor Hogarth excused himself from voting on Item 502 at 7:03 p.m. as he manages one of the properties discussed in the Development Agreements Committee Meeting Minutes. 502 Minutes of the Development Agreements Committee Meeting of September 19, 24 and 29(2) and October 2 and 3, 2014 R/2014-431 502 Minutes Development Agmt It was moved and seconded Committee That the minutes of the Development Agreements Committee Meeting of September 19, 24 and 29(2) and October 2 and 3, 2014 be received. CARRIED Note: Councillor Hogarth returned to the meeting at 7:03 p.m. 600 PRESENTATIONS AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCIL 601 Capital Improvement Program Update • Trevor Thompson, Manager of Financial Planning Mr. Thompson provided an overview of the Capital Improvement Program. Note: Item 1132 was dealt with prior to item 700 Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 3 of 17 700 DELEGATIONS 701 Hospital Parking Fee Issue • Graham Mowatt and Grover Telford Mr. Mowatt and Mr. Telford spoke to the parking fees charged at the Ridge Meadows Hospital and asked that Council support the citizens of Maple Ridge by requesting that a different funding formula for collecting fees be considered by Fraser Health. Mr. Telford submitted a petition requesting free parking at the Hospital. 702 ShakeOut Presentation • Patrick Cullen, Emergency Program Coordinator Mr. Cullen gave a Power Point presentation providing information on the ShakeOut earthquake drill and on steps residents can take to be personally prepared for emergencies. 800 UNFINISHED BUSINESS Note: Item 801 was brought forward from the October 6, 2014 Council Workshop Meeting 801 Employment Land Investment Incentive Program and Town Centre Investment Incentive Program - TCIIP2014 Extension Staff report dated October 14, 2014 recommending that fee reductions and partnering incentives for the Employment Land Investment Program and the Town Centre Investment Incentive Program be implemented; that Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Bylaw No. 7112-2014, Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Amending Bylaw No. 7109-2014 and Maple Ridge Off-Street Parking and Loading Amending Bylaw No. 7110-2014 be given first, second and third reading; that monies be set aside in a reserve account to fund incentives; that monies be set aside for a Town Centre Improvement Program over 2015-2016; and that additional lands meeting specified criteria be added to the Employment Land Investment Incentive Program in the future at the option of Council. The Manager of Sustainability and Corporate Planning gave a PowerPoint presentation providing an overview of the Employment Land Incentive Program. Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 4 of 17 R/2014-432 Employment Land Investment Incentive Program and Town It was moved and seconded Centre Investment Incentive Program Extension 1) Investment Incentive Program as set out in the October 14, 2014, report, "Employment Land Investment Incentive Program and TCIIP2014 Extension" be implemented. 2) That the fee reductions and partnering incentives for the Town Centre Investment Incentive Program as set out in the October 14, 2014 report, "Employment Land Investment Incentive Program and TCIIP2014 F�ctension" be implemented. 3) That Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Bylaw 7112-2014 be given first, second and third readings. 4) That Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Amending Bylaw 7109-2014 be given first, second and third readings. 5) That Maple Ridge Off-Street Parking and Loading Amending Bylaw No. 7110-2014 be given first, second and third readings. 6) That $650,000 be set aside in a reserve account to fund incentives. 7) That $50,000 be set aside for a Town Centre Improvement Program over 2015-2016 in partnership with, and with matching funds from the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association. 8) That additional lands that meet the Employment Land Investment Incentive Program's reasons, objectives and principles, described in Part 5 of Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 7112-2014 may be added to the program at Council's option in the future. Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 5 of 17 R/2014-433 Amendment It was moved and seconded That the following text be added: 9) That applications received under the Employment Land Investment Incentive Program and the Town Centre Investment Incentive Program be expedited and that additional staffing to process applications come from the proposed funding envelope. R/2014-434 Amendment It was moved and seconded N ote That the amendment be amended to delete the text "and that additional staff to process applications come from the proposed funding envelope" CARRIED Councillors Hogarth and Morden OPPOSED AMENDMENT AS AMENDED DEFEATED Councillors Bell, Hogarth, Morden and Mayor Daykin OPPOSED CARRIED Item 802 was deferred from the September 30, 2014 Council Meeting 802 2013-107-RZ, 24005, 24009 and 24075 Fern Crescent Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7053-2014 To rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) and RS-2 (One Family Suburban Residential) to RS-1b (One Family Urban [Medium Density] Residential), RS-1 (One Family Urban Residential) and R-2 (Urban Residential District) to permit a future subdivision of 34 single family lots. Third reading R/2014-435 2013-107-RZ BL No. 7053-2014 Third Reading It was moved and seconded That Bylaw No. 7053-2014 be given third reading. CARRIED Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 6 of 17 The Manager of Legislative Services read an amendment to the motion from the September 30, 2014 meeting that staff recommends Council consider. R/2014-436 2013-107-RZ BL No. 7053-2014 It was moved and seconded That the text "and further, That as a condition of final reading, the Rezoning Servicing Agreement include the construction of 128th Avenue from Fern Crescent west to Fern Crescent east, including intersections and additional security in the amount of $370,000 for the construction of 128th Avenue" be added to the motion. CARRIED Note: Council recessed at 9:20 p.m. and reconvened at 9:27 p.m. Councillor Morden was not in attendance when the meeting reconvened. •�� 1000 C�Zi ; : �7i ►P►�]���C�1� BYLAWS Bvlaws for Final Readin� 1001 2011-099-RZ, 12122 and 12130 203 Street Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 6884-2011 Staff report dated October 14, 2014 recommending final reading to rezone from RS-1 (One Family Urban Residential) to R-1 (Residential District) and R-2 (Urban Residential District) to permit subdivision into 16 lots. Final reading R/2014-437 2011-099-RZ BL No. 6884-2011 Final Reading It was moved and seconded That Bylaw No. 6884-2011 be adopted. CARRIED Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 7 of 17 1002 2012-038-RZ, 12116, 12140 and 12170 204 B Street Staff report dated October 14, 2014 recommending final reading 1002.1 Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7044-2013 To designate from Institutional and Urban Residential to Urban Residential and Institutional Final reading R/2014-438 2012-038-RZ BL No. 7044-2013 Final Reading It was moved and seconded That Bylaw No. 7044-2013, as amended in the staff report dated October 14, 2014, be adopted. CARRIED 1002.2 Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 6924-2012 To rezone from P-2 (Special Institutional) to R-1 (Residential District) to permit the subdivision of 4 single family lots Final reading R/2014-439 2012-038-RZ BL No. 6924-2012 Final Reading It was moved and seconded That Bylaw No. 6924-2012 be adopted. _" � COMMITTEE REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 1100 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Minutes - October 6, 2014 R/2014-440 Minutes COW October 6, 2014 It was moved and seconded That the minutes of the Committee of the Whole Meeting of October 6, 2014 be received. CARRIED Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 8 of 17 Public Works and Development Services 1101 2011-095-RZ, 11219 243 Street, RS-3 to RS-1b Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw No. 6850-2011 to amend land use designations to dedicate park for conservation purposes be given first and second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing and that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 6851-2011 to rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) to RS-1b (One Family Urban [Medium Density] Residential) to allow for approximately 16 single family lots be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing. First and Second Reading R/2014-441 2011-095-RZ It was moved and seconded BL No.6850-2011 First and Second Reading BL No.6851-2011 Second Reading 1. That Bylaw No. 6850-2011 be given first and second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing; 2. That, in accordance with Section 879 of the Local Government Act, opportunity for early and on-going consultation has been provided by way of posting Bylaw No. 6850 - 2011 on the municipal website, and Council considers it unnecessary to provide any further consultation opportunities, except by way of holding a Public Hearing on the bylaw; 3. That Bylaw No. 6850-2011 be considered in conjunction with the Capital Expenditure Plan and Waste Management Plan; 4. That it be confirmed that Bylaw No. 6850-2011 is consistent with the Capital Expenditure Plan and Waste Management Plan; 5. That Bylaw No. 6851-2011 be amended as identified in the staff report dated October 6, 2014, be given second reading, and be forwarded to Public Hearing; and 6. That the following terms and conditions be met prior to final reading: i. Registration of a Rezoning Servicing Agreement as a Restrictive Covenant and receipt of the deposit of a security, as outlined in the Agreement; ii. Amendment to Official Community Plan Schedule "A", Chapter 10.2 Albion Area Plan, Schedule 1: Albion Area Plan and Schedule "C"; Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 9 of 17 iii. Park dedication as required, including construction of the equestrian trail; iv. A letter assuring that removal of all debris and garbage from park land has occurred; v. Registration of a Restrictive Covenant for the geotechnical report, which addresses the suitability of the subject property for the proposed development; vi. Removal of existing buildings; and vii. In addition to the Site Profile, a disclosure statement must be submitted by a Professional Engineer advising whether there is any evidence of underground fuel storage tanks on the subject properties. If so, a Stage 1 Site Investigation Report is required to ensure that the subject property is not a contaminated site. CARRIED Note: Councillor Morden returned to the meeting at 9:32 p.m. 1102 2014-012-RZ, 24263 and 24295 112 Avenue, RS-2 to RS-1b Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7067-2014 to amend land use designation to allow for dedication of park for conservation purposes be given first and second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing and that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7065-2014 to rezone from RS- 2(One Family Suburban Residential) to RS-1b (One Family Urban [Medium Density] Residential) to allow for approximately 12 single family lots be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing. First and Second Reading R/2014-442 2014-012-RZ It was moved and seconded BLNo.7067-2014 First and Second Reading BL No. 7065-2014 Second Reading 1. That Bylaw No. 7067-2014 be given first and second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing; 2. That, in accordance with Section 879 of the Local Government Act, opportunity for early and on-going consultation has been provided by way of posting Bylaw No. 7067-2014 on the municipal website, and Council considers it unnecessary to provide any further consultation opportunities, except by way of holding a Public Hearing on the bylaw; Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 10 of 17 3. 4. 5. 6. That Bylaw No. 7067-2014 be considered in conjunction with the Capital Expenditure Plan and Waste Management Plan; That it be confirmed that Bylaw No. 7067-2014 is consistent with the Capital Expenditure Plan and Waste Management Plan; That Bylaw No. 7065-2014 be amended as identified in the staff report dated October 6, 2014, be given second reading, and be forwarded to Public Hearing; and That the following terms and conditions be met prior to final reading: i. Registration of a Rezoning Servicing Agreement as a Restrictive Covenant and receipt of the deposit of a security, as outlined in the Agreement; ii. Amendment to Official Community Plan Schedule "A", Chapter 10.2 Albion Area Plan, Schedule 1: Albion Area Plan and Schedule "C"; iii. Park dedication as required, including construction of an equestrian trail; iv. A letter assuring that removal of all debris and garbage from park land has occurred; v. Consolidation of the subject properties; vi. Registration of a Restrictive Covenant for the geotechnical report, which addresses the suitability of the subject properties for the proposed development; vii. Removal of existing buildings; and viii. In addition to the Site Profile, a disclosure statement must be submitted by a Professional Engineer advising whether there is any evidence of underground fuel storage tanks on the subject properties. If so, a Stage 1 Site Investigation Report is required to ensure that the subject property is not a contaminated site. CARRIED 1103 2011-130-RZ, 12240 228 Street, RS-1 to R-3 Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 6891-2011 to rezone from RS-1(One Family Urban Residential) to R-3 (Special Amenity Residential District) to permit future subdivision into four single family lots be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing. Second Reading Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 11 of 17 R/2014-443 2011-130-RZ BL No. 6891-2011 Second Reading It was moved and seconded 1. That Bylaw No. 6891-2011 be given second reading, and be forwarded to Public Hearing; 2. That Council require, as a condition of subdivision approval, the developer to pay to the City an amount that equals 5% of the market value of the land, as determined by an independent appraisal, in lieu of parkland dedication in accordance with Section 941 of the Local Government Act; and, 3. That the following terms and conditions be met prior to final reading: i. Road dedication as required; ii. Removal of the existing buildings; and iii. A disclosure statement must be submitted by a Professional Engineer advising whether there is any evidence of underground fuel storage tanks. If so, a Stage 1 Site Investigation report is required to ensure that the subject property is not a contaminated site. CARRIED 1104 2013-042-RZ, 24325 126 Avenue, RS-3 to RS-2 Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7009-2013 to rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) to RS-2 (One Family Suburban Residential) to permit a future subdivision into two single family lots no less than 0.3 ha (1 acre) be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing. Second Reading R/2014-444 2013-042-RZ It was moved and seconded BL No. 7009-2013 Second reading 1. That Bylaw No. 7009-2013 be given second reading, and be forwarded to Public Hearing; and 2. That the following terms and conditions be met prior to final reading: i. Registration of a geotechnical report as a Restrictive Covenant which addresses the suitability of the site Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 12 of 17 for the proposed development; and A disclosure statement must be submitted by a Professional Engineer advising whether there is any evidence of underground fuel storage tanks. If so, a Stage 1 Site Investigation report is required to ensure that the subject property is not a contaminated site. CARRIED 1105 2012-057-RZ, 12933 Mill Street, First E�ension Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that a one year extension be granted for rezoning application 2012-057-RZ to permit a subdivision of 16 single family lots under the R-2 (Urban Residential District) zone. R/2014-445 2012-057-RZ It was moved and seconded Extension That a one year e�ension be granted for rezoning application 2012-057-RZ and that the following conditions be addressed prior to consideration of final reading: i. Registration of a Rezoning Servicing Agreement as a Restrictive Covenant and receipt of the deposit of a security, as outlined in the Agreement; ii. Amendments to Part Vl Figure 2- Land Use Plan; Figure 3D - Horse Hamlet; and Figure 4-Trails / Open Space of the Silver Valley Area Plan of the Official Community Plan; iii. Road dedication as required; iv. Registration of a geotechnical report as a Restrictive Covenant at the Land Title Office which addresses the suitability of the site for the proposed development; v. Registration of a Habitat Protection and Stormwater Management Covenant at the Land Title Office; vi. Removal of the existing buildings; and vii. A disclosure statement must be submitted by a Professional Engineer advising whether there is any evidence of underground fuel storage tanks. If there is evidence, a site profile pursuant to the Waste Management Act must be provided in accordance with the regulations. Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 13 of 17 CARRIED 1106 2011-099-DVP and 2013-095-DVP, 12122 and 12130 203 Street Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal 2011-099-DVP for variances to increase maximum height, reduce rear yard setbacks, decrease minimum lot width for certain lots and to leave existing overhead utility plant in place on 203 Street to allow for subdivision into 16 lots over two phases and that the Corporate Officer to authorized to sign and seal 2013-095-DVP to allow variances for a future lot in the second phase of the subdivision. The Manager of Legislative Services advised that correspondence was received from the Maple Ridge Alliance Church concerning the application. R/2014-446 2011-099-DVP It was moved and seconded 2013-095-DVP Sign and Seal 1. That the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal 2011-099-DVP respecting property located at 12122 and 12130 203 Street for the first phase of the subdivision; and 2. That the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal 2013-095-DVP respecting property located at future lot 10, created through the first phase of the subdivision. CARRIED 1107 2012-038-DVP, 12116 and 12170 204B Street Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal 2012-038-DVP for variances to reduce rear and front yard setbacks and to increase maximum height for specific lots to permit subdivision into four residential lots. Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 14 of 17 R/2014-447 2012-038-DVP Sign and seal It was moved and seconded That the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal 2012-038-DVP respecting properties located at 12116 and 12170 204B Street. CARRIED 1108 2014-063-DVP, 28702 104 Avenue Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal 2014-063-DVP to vary minimum lot width to allow for a lot line adjustment. R/2014-448 2014-063-DVP Sign and seal It was moved and seconded That the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal 2014-063-DVP respecting property located at 28702 104 Avenue. CARRIED Financial and Corporate Services (including Fire and Police� 1131 Disbursements for the month ended August 31, 2014 Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that the disbursements for the month ended August 31, 2014 be approved. Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 15 of 17 R/2014-449 Disbursements for the month ended August 31, 2014 N ote 1132 It was moved and seconded That the disbursements as listed below for the month ended August 31, 2014 be approved: General Payroll Purchase Card Item 1132 was dealt with following Item 601 $18,609,843. $ 2,013,733. $ 77.973. $ 20,701,549. CARRIED Capital Improvement Program Update, 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7106-2014 Staff report dated October 6, 2014 recommending that 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7106-2014 to reflect changes to the Capital Improvement Program and operating cost updates be given first, second and third readings. R/2014-450 BL No.7106-2014 First, Second and Third Reading It was moved and seconded That Bylaw No. 7106-2014 be given first, second and third readings. CARRIED Communitv Development and Recreation Service - Nil Correspondence - Nil Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 16 of 17 Other Committee Issues - Nil 1200 STAFF REPORTS- N i l 1300 RELEASE OF ITEMS FROM CLOSED COUNCIL - Nil 1400 MAYOR'S REPORT Mayor Daykin spoke to events on Mental Health Day noting the importance to remove the stigma around mental health. He acknowledged small businesses in recognition of Small Business Month. He attended a Rotary Club fundraising event in aid of the Ridge Meadows Hospice Society. 1500 COUNCILLORS' REPORTS Councillor Bell Councillor Bell offered reminders of events including Golden Harvest, the Ridge Meadows Hospital Gala and the annual general meeting of the CEED Centre. She will be attending a LMLGA board meeting and the Metro Vancouver 2015 budget discussions. Councillor Hogarth Councillor Hogarth will be attending an Economic Advisory Committee meeting and a Fraser River discussion luncheon. He encouraged people to assist with Operation Red Nose. He participated in the local real estate division annual thanksgiving dinner at St. Patrick's Hall. Councillor Morden Councillor Morden advised that it Is Homelessness Action Week. He attended the joint Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services meeting, the Rotary Club fundraiser, a BIA safety and security committee meeting and a meeting of the Social Planning Advisory Committee. Councillor Ashlie Councillor Ashlie attended the Social Planning Advisory Committee meeting, and the joint Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services meeting. She reminded residents of the Community Resource Fair at Haney Place Mall and the Golden Harvest event. Council Minutes October 14, 2014 Page 17 of 17 Councillor Dueck Councillor Dueck attended the Social Planning Advisory Committee meeting, the joint Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services meeting and the Fire Hall No. 1 Open House. She thanked the firefighters for the work done by them during Fire Prevention Week. Councillor Masse Councillor Masse attended the Maple Ridge Community Heritage Commission meeting, the Social Planning Advisory Committee meeting, and the joint Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services meeting. He will be attending the Golden Harvest event and the Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation Gala. 1600 OTHER MATTERS DEEMED EXPEDIENT - Nil 1700 NOTICES OF MOTION AND MATTERS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS - Nil 1800 QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC - N i I 1900 ADJOURNMENT - 10:04 p.m. E. Daykin, Mayor Certified Correct C. Marlo, Corporate Officer City of Maple Ridge PUBLIC HEARING October 21, 2014 The Minutes of the Public Hearing held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Hall, 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, British Columbia on October 21, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. PRESENT Elected Officials Mayor E. Daykin Councillor C. Ashlie Councillor C. Bell Councillor A. Hogarth Councillor B. Masse Councillor M. Morden ABSENT Councillor J. Dueck Appointed Staff P. Gill, Acting Chief Administrative Officer C. Marlo, Manager of Legislative Services C. Carter, Director of Planning C. Goddard, Manager of Development and Environmental Services L. Zosiak, Planner Mayor Daykin called the meeting to order. The Manager of Legislative Services explained the procedure and rules of order of the Public Hearing and advised that the bylaws will be considered further at the next Council Meeting on October 28, 2014. The Mayor then called upon the Manager of Development and Environmental Services to present the following items on the agenda: 1) 2013-103-RZ Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7042-2013 LEGAL: LOCATION FROM: T0: PURPOSE Lot 2, District Lot 248, Group 1, New Westminster District, Plan 7478 12366 Laity Street RS-1(One Family Urban Residential) R-1(Residential District) To permit a future subdivision of approximately 4 lots in the first phase, and an additional 2 lots in a second phase in the future. The Manager of Legislative Services advised that correspondence was received from E. Ann Taylor. 502 Public Hearing Minutes October 21, 2014 Page 2 of 3 Note: Councillor Masse excused himself at 7:03 p.m. as he owns property in the neighbourhood of the application. The Manager of Development and Environmental Services gave a power point presentation providing the following information: • Application Information • OCP Context • Neighbourhood Context • Site Characteristics • Development Proposal • Proposed Subdivision Plan • Second Phase of Subdivision • Terms & Conditions Anthony Youn� Mr. Young believes that the proposed density is too high for the area and would add to the existing traffic problems. There being no further comment, the Mayor declared this item dealt with. Note: Councillor Masse returned at 7:11 p.m. 2. 2012-036-CP MAPLE RIDGE OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN AMENDING BYLAW N0. 7101-2014 PURPOSE: Section 919.1 of the Local Government Act permits the designation of Development Permit Guidelines for development areas at risk to hazardous conditions, such as wildfire. The intent of the Wildfire Development Permit Guidelines is to minimize the risk of wildfire to property and to people for new development located within the wildfire interface area identified on Map 1 of the Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw 7101-2014. The Manager of Legislative Services advised that correspondence was received from Janet Burns, Dr. Bim Meetarbhan, Kevin Dhesa, Art & Barb Neufeld on this item. Public Hearing Minutes October 21, 2014 Page 3 of 3 The Planner gave a power point presentation providing the following information: • Background • Open House Outcomes • Wildfire DP Area • Wildfire DP Guidelines Section Information • Development Procedures Bylaw • Development Cost Concerns • Staffing Concerns • Agency Referrals • Recommendations Mark Sakai, Greater Vancouver Homebuilders Association Mr. Sakai read a presentation from the Association outlining the reasons for their opposition to the Wildfire Development Permit Guidelines. He submitted a copy of his presentation. Bim Meetarbhan Mr. Meetarghan spoke to the ongoing need for water service in Thornhill and asked Council to considering providing this service with funding assistance through grants from higher levels of government. There being no further comment, the Mayor declared this item dealt with. Having given all those persons whose interests were deemed affected by the matters contained herein a chance to be heard, the Mayor terminated the Public Hearing at 7:29 p.m. E. Daykin, Mayor Certified Correct C. Marlo, Corporate Officer CORPORATION OF THE DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS COMMITTEE MINUTES October 14, 2014 Mayor's Office PRESENT: Ernie Daykin, Mayor Chairman J.L. (Jim) Rule, Chief Administrative Officer Member 1. 2014115068-000-00-BG LEGAL: LOCATION: OWNER: REQUIRED AGREEMENTS: Jill Holgate, Recording Secretary Lot 555, District Lot 280, Group 1, New Westminster District, Plan 114 202910spring Street Rajjvinder Singh Dhaliwal Floodplain - Hammond (Section 219 Covenant) THAT THE MAYOR AND CORPORATE OFFICER BE AUTHORIZED TO SIGN AND SEAL THE PRECEDING DOCUMENT AS IT RELATES TO 2014115068-000-00-BG. CARRIED _ �: , 9j_ C� ��, �_r,y �_ J.L. (Jim) Rule, Chief Administrative Officer Member f` � n � Pcl . "1 " SUBJECT PARCEL y 4 ��`��.�� ��3 3 1 ss � ss c� � o� s� ss � `� O� 6'� s� �o o� �� �o � � �s� ��' o � � ����� o � �j0 �� s `�s � District of Langley C O .� N � w O U � 0 �� � ��' �°� � ��� �� �o � �� / � HAMMOND FLOODPLAIN COVENAN 20291 OSPRING STREET CITY OF MAPLE RIDGE LICENSES, PERMITS & BYLAWS DEPT. Scale: 1:1,000 I f�� � DATE: Oct 10, 2014 FILE: Untitled BY: JS FR,qSER r� ���� CORPORATION OF THE DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE DEVELOPMENTAGREEMENTS COMMITTEE MINUTES October 21, 2014 Mayor's Office PRESENT: Ernie Daykin, Mayor Chairman J.L. (Jim) Rule, Chief Administrative Officer Member Jill Holgate, Recording Secretary 1. DYKSTRA, CARMEN S. and ROBINSON, CHRISTA C. & MATTHEW J. LEGAL: LOCATION: OWNER: REQUIRED AGREEMENTS: Lot 32, Section 10, Township 12, New Westminster District, NWP66748 1-11045 Cameron Crt Carmen S. Dykstra Christa C. Robinson Matthew J. Robinson Detached Garden Suite Detached Garden Suite Parking Covenant (Section 219 Covenant) THAT THE MAYOR AND CORPORATE OFFICER BE AUTHORIZED TO SIGN AND SEAL THE PRECEDING DOCUMENTS AS THEY RELATE TO DYKSTRA, CARMEN S. and ROBINSON, CHRISTA C. & MATTHEW J. CARRIED J.L. (Jim Rule, Chief Administrative Officer Memb r N District of Langley 11045 Cameron Court CITY OF MAPLE RIDGE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT Scale: 1:2,500 I �F�ysER R �� � DATE: Oct 20, 2014 FILE: Untitled BY: MC MAPLE RIDGE British Columhla T0: FROM: SUBJECT: District of Maple Ridge His Worship Mayor Ernie Daykin and Members of Council Chief Administrative Officer Development Services Resources EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: MEETING DATE: FILE N0: MEETING: October 20, 2014 Workshop Since the mid 1990's the City of Maple Ridge has been consistently recognized as a leader in Business Planning. These award winning Business and Financial Plans have consistently strived to balance needs with cost containment. Most recently through tougher economic times Council has strived to reduce tax increases while at the same time maintaining levels of service. Requests for additional staff resources have been tempered by the reality of the potential property tax implications. In response to Council's direction, incremental packages have been limited. At the same time, the City has pursued an "Open for Business" perspective that stresses the necessity of keeping the costs of development low as well as providing incentives to attract development investment. These incentives include reduced building permit fees, reduced application fees, development cost charge rebates and tax exemptions. The National Association for Industrial and Office Parks (NAIOP) is one of North America's largest real estate organizations. Each year NAIOP surveys local municipalities for development application fees and process timing. The 2013 NAIOP survey shows that Maple Ridge has some of the lowest fees when the subdivision, rezoning, development permit and building permit fees are combined. The survey suggests that Maple Ridge fees are 22% below the average. In fact, Maple Ridge was recently recognized with an award from NAIOP for its low development fees. The Town Centre Investment Incentive Program was introduced in 2011. It was anticipated based on the economic times that 6 to 10 applications would be deemed a success. The actual number of permits reviewed and approved was 80. The impact on levels of service took time to manifest, however after about 18 months of the program it became clear that the sheer volume of applications and the commitment to priority processing was having an impact on levels of service. At the same time that the Town Centre Investment Incentive Program was in full bloom, the Real Estate Investors' Network (REIN) published its findings that concluded that Maple Ridge is the No. 5 top investment city in all of Canada and second only to Surrey in British Columbia. As a result development interest in Maple Ridge increased dramatically further stressing the City's resources. Due to the interest in Maple Ridge the number of predevelopment inquires over the past few years has been unprecedented. These types of inquiries consume huge amounts of staff time and yet require no fees. In response to the increased development, the City adjusted a number of processes and undertook an organization wide Customer Service Initiative. All of these efficiency and effectiveness measures continue to have a positive impact. 801 1 In the spring of 2014 Council asked that a report be provided on the needs of the development staffing area in light of the fact that development interest in Maple Ridge is predicted to remain very strong. The work matrix adopted by Council included a report on Development Services Resources. The timing of the report was to follow Council's decisions on a number of work items with potentially significant impacts on staffing resources in the development processing area. These include the Commercial Industrial Plan, the Employment Incentive Program, the Albion Flats Area Plan and to a lesser extent the Transportation Plan. The processing of development applications is primarily carried out through the Planning, Engineering and Building Departments. Many of the staff involved in the processing of applications also carry out work with no associated application fee. As such, staff in these departments is funded through a number of funding sources including Development Application fees, Building Permit fees, General Taxation, Water Utility Funds and Sewer Utility Funds. This report is focused on examining how the level of service expected by the development community can be met. Based on the Council direction to keep tax increases low and the costs to the development community low the report proposes a financing methodology that will in the short term (two years) have no requirement for adjustments to the approved tax levels and no increases to the current application fee structure. This is achieved through a proposed combination of permanent and interim funding. This model is not sustainable beyond two years. A permanent solution beyond two years will have implications to taxes and/or development application fees. RECOMMENDATIONS: That staff be directed to implement the addition of 4 new positions in Development Processing as detailed in the staff report dated October 20, 2014; and further That the funding source for the four positions be as outlined in Table 3 of the staff report dated October 20, 2014. DISCUSSION: a) Background Context: As part of the approved Council Matrix, Council has requested a report on the resources required to meet the expected levels of service to the building and development community. Since the mid 1990's the City of Maple Ridge has been consistently recognized as a leader in Business Planning. These award winning Business and Financial Plans have consistently strived to balance needs against cost containment. Most recently through tougher economic times Council has strived to reduce tax increases while at the same time maintaining levels of service. It is within this context that incremental packages including requests for additional staff resources have been kept to a minimum. During this time the City has pursued an "Open for Business" perspective that stresses the necessity of keeping the costs of development low as well as providing incentives to attract development such as reduced fees and priority processing. In a recent NAIOP survey the City was recognized for its low development fee costs. Town Centre Investment Incentive Program The Town Centre Investment Incentive Program was introduced in 2011. It was anticipated based on the economic times that 6 to 10 applications would be deemed a success. The actual number of permits reviewed and approved was 80. The impact on levels of service took time to manifest, however after about 18 months of the program it became clear that the sheer volume of applications and the commitment to priority processing was having an impact on levels of service. Real Estate Investors Network (REIN� REIN has consistently cited Maple Ridge as a top 5 investment location in Canada and second only to Surrey in British Columbia. The openings of the Golden Ears Bridge and the new Pitt River Bridge have provided unprecedented access to this part of the region. It is suggested that interest in development in Maple Ridge is at the highest it has been in decades. While this interest has translated into multiple applications, it has also significantly increased the number of pre-application inquiries, general inquiries and meetings. Not all of these pre-application inquiries translate into applications however the staff time involved in responding to potential applicant requests is significant. Nearly all of this work is not recoverable from application fees. The amount of staff time involved in this development related work with no associated fees cannot be overstated. NAIOP NAIOP is one of North America's largest real estate organizations. Each year NAIOP surveys local municipalities for development application fees and process timing. While primarily focused on commercial and industrial developments the findings are also indicative of the residential process. The 2013 NAIOP survey shows that Maple Ridge has the some of lowest fees when the subdivision, rezoning, development permit and building permit fees are combined. The survey suggests that Maple Ridge fees are 22% below the average. Recently Maple Ridge was recognized with an award from NAIOP for its low development application fees. The NAIOP surveys are discussed in more detail later in this report. Efficiency and Effectiveness The City's Business Plan Process requires all avenues to be explored before additional resources are considered. As an ongoing process, efficiency and effectiveness measures are examined. To that end there have been process reviews, customer service initiatives, overtime approvals and temporary staff hired to try and defer the need for hiring permanent staff. Process improvements initiated include: • Detailed Comprehensive Application Check Lists • Getting the Applicant to First Reading Faster • Planner of the Day (Planner assigned each day to address front counter inquiries) • Internal Application Review Committee (all staff involved in an application) • Detailed Pre-application Meetings • Elimination of Secondary Suite Permit Referrals to Planning Department • Elimination of Referrals to Operation Department 3 • Reduced Number of Plan Check Iterations • Master Plan Reviews for Building Permits • Pre-application Reviews on Building Permits While these have added value and improvements to the process the file load per staff member has not diminished. The reality is that no amount of process reviews can address a situation where the sheer volume of applications and inquiries exceeds the capacity to attain a desired level of service. Complexity of Developments Almost all projects are multi faceted. There are very few "easy" sites left to develop in Maple Ridge. More and more today's applications have a significant level of complexity spanning geotechnical, environmental, transportation, legal document reviews, bylaw formulation and unique servicing concepts that require a level of assessment not often seen in the past. Infill projects which are readily serviceable are particularly challenging as they tend to generate neighbourhood concerns and require considerable time. Dormant Files Many assigned files remain open, however are dormant due to inactivity of the applicant. When the files becomes active again the applicants often expect staff to pick up immediately on where the file was left off as if no delay on the applicant's part occurred. Such projects can impact active applications significantly. As well some applicants will cite the original application date when referring to the length of time the file took to process, omitting the dormant time due to inactivity on the part of the applicant. Development Process As stated above, before an application even gets submitted staff spend a significant amount of time on general inquires and pre-application meetings. This time is not recovered through fees. The time spent on these inquiries, while necessary, takes staff away from spending time on processing applications that have paid fees. Development related applications may include: • Official Community Plan Amendments • Rezoning • Development Permits • Development Variance Permits • Subdivisions • Commercial and Industrial Temporary Use Permits • Building Permits • Plumbing Permits • Electrical Permits • Retaining Wall Permits • Fill Permits • Highways Use Permits • Water Service Connections • Sewer Service Connections • Design Panel Reviews C! • Public Hearings This work is largely carried out by the development section of Planning Department, the subdivision section of the Engineering Department and the plan checking section of the Building Department. Work Load The Planning Department has provided 450 development related reports to Council over the past 3 years. This is on average about 90 reports per staff person over that period of time. The number of files currently being processed in the Planning Department is 256. This amounts to an average of 51 files per development staff person in the Planning Department. The Building Department has issued 3,885 building related permits in the past 5 years. This translates to an average of 777 per year or 15 permits per week every week for 5 years. As part of the development process review initiated in 2010, predevelopment application meetings are standard procedure. In addition, the Planning Department allocates a staff member to the front counter each day to respond to front counter inquires. Planning staff have been tracking their time over the past year. On average each Planning Technician is occupied at the front counter 57 days per year. This corresponds to over a day per week that each Planning Technician is not available to process applications. In actuality many of the inquiries received at the front counter require additional work and a day per week is conservative. The Planner of the Day was introduced in response to the need for more effective front counter service. Similarly, Plan Checkers and Engineering Technologists are on call to respond to front counter inquiries. These front counter inquires most often have no application fees associated with the service and result on average to 2 to 3 person days per week. Each department's development related section has working managers. For example the Manager of Development is also the Approving Officer and works directly on assessing applications. The Manager of Inspection Services reviews more complex building applications and also undertakes inspections when understaffed due to illness or vacation. There are no contingencies built into the system. What this means is that if a staff person takes vacation or is sick there is no backfill. The use of overtime is also a"catch 22" situation. The additional work will, over time, take its toll on the staff person. In addition the time banked for overtime, when taken, means that person is now away. The current development staff contingent is as follows: Plannin • 1 Planner • 4 PlanningTechnicians Engineering • 2 Engineering Subdivision Technologists Building Department • 4 Plan Checkers 5 Municipal Comparisons Comparisons with other municipalities while helpful are also challenging. Those challenges include ensuring that the data provided is thorough and that the comparison is "apples to apples". No two municipalities are set up exactly the same. One of the first comparisons is a determination of how busy a municipality actually is. A growing municipality with lots of developable land will be busier than a municipality that is closer to build-out for example, and/or has little available land to develop. There are a number of determinants of how busy a municipality is. One determinant is population growth. Chart 1 below shows the Metro Municipalities projected population percentage increases to 2041. In looking at this chart Maple Ridge's reality is most similar to the Township of Langley, Coquitlam and Surrey. Comparisons with these municipalities makes sense. While staffing levels comparisons are worthwhile the sheer volume of active files is probably most indicative of how busy a municipality is. For example it makes little sense to compare Maple Ridge with Pitt Meadows. In total Pitt Meadows has 27 active files compared to 256 in Maple Ridge. Chart 1- Projected Population Growth Proj��t�� P�pula�i�n �r��vth zoas-za4� ���.�� , i . : �� .i��,. t...���;�i.,�„ �Frk k���•,� c����- . Pa� V:i�.i � �Vctih' UCe•dinili•.�• r Bain�,tiE-: Port l ix�uill,iiv ln���uky � �i , Ritl�itii�n� •1 1�iti N 1i�1�... 1� nrt h V�n{ou,rer �' rr . Bel�.0 ra lion,� k., ; �1+hite k�- �. SYrst Vanccxi,. r NrAh i`a���nuw.�r[}etihi• � [1s-fr.� � Y�nc��uy• , � �. . 40az. 604e 80�i, 10096 1244e ld0??e 0 The following Table 1 provides a comparison for development processing staff based on information received from the Cities of Surrey, Coquitlam and the Township of Langley. Table 1- Number of Development Staff and Files by Municipality Department Surrey Coquitlam Township Of Langley Maple Ridge Planning Development Staff 19 8 7 5 Engineering Subdivision Staff 7 10* 4 2 Building Plan Checkers 15 11 6** 4 No. of Active Planning Files 639 180 73 256 Files per Planning Staff 34 23 11 51 *some technologists also have other duties. **some plan checkers also do building inspections. Table 1 shows that Maple Ridge are below the staffing levels of the three other high growth municipalities. It also shows that the file load per staff is higher in Maple Ridge than the other three. Interestingly the Township of Langley in the most recent NAIOP survey showed the least processing time of the four municipalities which is perhaps indicative of their lower file per staff ratio. It should be noted that the Building Department has been operating with 3 Plan Checkers for most of 2014. This is a result of an illness. To try and address this, a temporary position was posted (twice) through the course of the year. There were no successful applicants for this temporary posting. It is anticipated that this position will be posted on a permanent basis in the coming months. LEVEL OF SERVICE RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS - Performance Measures It is acknowledged that "time is money" to the development community. In an ideal world the development process would have municipalities staffed to provide almost instantaneous responses. Due to funding constraints most municipalities are not staffed to drop files they are working on to provide instantaneous responses to every applicant as well as the general public. Instead, municipalities strive to set a level of service based on the quantity of applications and the available resources; the available resources being dependent on the corresponding available funding. Levels of service are of course dependent on the efficiency and effectiveness of the process, the level of staff experience and how that process is resourced. The efficiency measures implemented by Maple Ridge have been discussed a bove. The annual NAIOP survey requests that each municipality provide its timing in relation to the processing of rezoning, subdivision and building permit applications. Table 2 shows the survey information requested annually by NAIOP. 7 Table 2- NAIOP Timing Survey Process Timing Rezoning Less than 30 to 90 90 to 120 120 to 150 150 to 180 Over 180 30 days days days days days days Subdivision Less than 30 to 90 90 to 120 120 to 150 150 to 180 Over 180 30 days days days days days days Building Less than 30 to 90 90 to 120 120 to 150 150 to 180 Over 180 permit 30 days days days days days days In completing this survey Maple Ridge staff believes that it is our duty and obligation to complete the survey based on reality. Some municipalities have previously reported completing the rezoning process in less than 30 days. This appears to be legislatively impossible unless the municipality forgoes the Public Hearing process review, combines Bylaw readings, and does so on every application. Based on our actual experience with files, the number of files and the resources available our response over the past few surveys has been relatively consistent. Rezoning 90 to 150 days Subdivision 90 to 120 days Building Permit 30 to 90 days Depending on the application these processes can run concurrently. There are of course applications that fall on either side of these ranges. For example, many building permits are issued in less than 30 days. There are rezoning applications that take longer than 150 days. It's important to note that the process timing is also heavily reliant on the applicant. For example the length of time an applicant takes to fulfill the conditions for final reading will impact the completion time. To provide a consistent level of service that will allow Maple Ridge to consistently fall in the lower ranges of these surveys, the addition of the following staff positions to the development review process is recommended: • 2 Planners • 1 Planning Technician • 1 Plan Checker • 1 Subdivision Technologist (Engineering) Every year at Business Planning Council is informed that when positions become vacant due to retirement or resignations those positions are assessed for optimum utilization. There have been a number of retirements in the Engineering Department as well as the unfortunate passing of one of the staff. As a result, the Subdivision Technologist (Engineering) position is already accounted for in the approved budget, as this is an existing position that is being re-classed following an assessment of vacant positions due to retirements. Therefore of the positions above only 4 are additional. E:3 Employment Lands Investment Incentive Program Council recently adopted in principle a new incentive program to attract employment, and an extension to an existing incentive program. Part of the discussion included the issue of priority or expedited processing. The Town Centre Investment Incentive Program was an outstanding success. It has been cited across the Region as one of the best incentive programs ever implemented. While priority processing was well received by applicants participating in the Town Centre Investment Incentive Program, concerns were raised by applicants outside of the Town Centre. Those concerns were primarily centered on a consistent level of service being provided to all applicants. One of the issues raised was the fact that those applicants taking advantage of the incentive program were having their application fees reduced while at the same time receiving priority processing. Those applicants outside of the Town Centre had no fee reduction and yet were being placed behind Town Centre applicants in the processing queue. The anticipated uptake on the Employment Lands Investment Incentive Program is not anticipated to be as dramatic as the Town Centre Program because it is non-residential in nature. However its uptake will be unknown until implemented. In the absence of additional resources, there will be impacts on the timing for non-priority files. Should Council wish to implement priority processing or an expedited process for both programs, it could be achieved under the recommended staffing levels above without significantly impacting applications outside of the program. However the hiring of staff is not an immediate process and experience has shown that it can take months to fill positions with appropriately qualified and experienced staff. It is therefore advised that additional staffing levels be in place or in the process of being in place prior to priority processing or an expedited process being implemented. It has been suggested that applicants would pay more to have their applications processed faster or to jump the queue. This is counter-intuitive to the incentive program which seeks to reduce fees. In addition it sets up a two tiered system with an inconsistent level of service being provided to different applicants, and would likely result in the development community applications being processed faster than those made by an individual property owner. Also, in speaking to experienced developers they have said that most developers would likely end up paying the additional fees which would result in no benefit. If the development community is willing to pay more as stated then a review of the application fees across the board is more appropriate. This is discussed later in this report. In contrast to a two-tiered system which allows the development community to set priorities, expedited or priority processing allows Council to set the pace, fast-tracking projects that most closely align with Council's goals and objectives. Position Oualifications Requirements The staffing qualifications are necessarily significant. These qualifications are set through job description analysis by Metro Vancouver. It is a requirement of the Collective Bargaining Agreement with CUPE that job classifications are set via this third party. Changes to job qualifications can not be made without CUPE's agreement. Developments often result in E investments of millions of dollars by applicants. Applicants need to be assured that their applications are being assessed and reviewed by appropriately qualified people. The City is also open to liability for wrongly assessed applications. The education and experience requirements for the various positions within the development process include: Planner - Master's Degree in Planning with some professional experience in urban or regional planning. Considerable academic and practical knowledge of principles, practices, and objectives of urban and regional planning. Membership or eligibility for membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners. PlanningTechnician - A University Degree in a planning related discipline such as Environmental Studies or Urban Geography. Fundamental knowledge of planning practices, plus related office experience. Plan Checker - Graduation with a Diploma from an Institute of Technology in Building Technology, plus sound related experience in the building construction industry or Municipal field, preferably Level II Certification of the Building Officials Association of BC. Subdivision Technologist - Graduate with a Diploma from an Institute of Technology in Civil Engineering Technology and eligible for certification as an Applied Science Technologist in the Province of British Columbia plus related experience in a municipal engineering office or equivalent. There have been cases where a staff inember has moved from one department to another. In these cases they have had the necessary qualifications. In most cases the qualifications are not transferable. For example a qualified accountant would not be qualified to move to a planning position or vice versa. The City has used and continues to use students where appropriate for short term periods. By the very nature of their circumstances students need to get back to their studies. The City does not maintain a unilateral right to deploy students as in the majority of cases, the work being performed by students is typically bargaining unit work (i.e. work that is performed by CUPE employees). Students can be used for research and finite projects however are not at all suitable for application processing. Applicants for developments have always informed the City that they prefer to have one file manager throughout the application process. The short term nature of student deployment does not provide this consistency. Most often their level of experience is limited, minimizing their utilization for tasks required to be performed. Moreover, students require greater guidance and supervision which results in a greater resource draw on existing supervisory/management personnel. Transferring or secondment of staff on an assignment basis from municipality to municipality is not an accepted practice within the sector. Various collective agreements with different provisions on items such as seniority accumulation, leave provisions, and different pay and benefit structures would pose significant hurdles that must be overcome before this can be considered a feasible option. Even if this could be achieved, the receiving municipality would be responsible for the employee's salary and benefit costs. ��i7 The creation of a position does not mean that it will be filled immediately. Until recently the Engineering Department had extreme difficulties in trying to fill vacant positions. In addition the Planning Department over the years has been subject to significant turnover as more attractive higher paying positions in other municipalities became available. Temporary positions are the most difficult to fill. Whereas in the past retirees were attracted to returning to the workforce on a contract basis that is no longer the case. As stated earlier the Building Department posted a Temporary Plan Checker position twice this year with no success. b) Financiallmplications Based on Council's direction to keep taxes low and application fees low the approved budgets do not have the capacity to achieve the recommended staffing levels. Should Council wish to move forward with the recommended staffing levels then a budget amendment would be required. An interim temporary short term solution could be implemented graduating into a permanent solution. A permanent stable solution will ultimately require a combination of general revenue funding, utility revenue funding and application fee adjustments. The recommendation for the short term is to utilize funding from reserves combined with funding already approved in the current budget. The following Table 3 provides a funding strategy that would see the staffing levels accommodated in the short term through funding already approved supplemented by temporary funding from reserves, Beyond the first two years the strategy recognizes that permanent funding from general revenue, utility revenue and applicant fees will be required. Table 3- Financial Implementation Strategy Financial Implementation Strategy *all dollar figures in thousands Funding Previously Approved 2015 2016 2017 Re-classed Existing Positions Existing Growth Funding Tota I Additional Funding Required Reserves Application Fees General Revenue Water Utility Sewer Utility Tota I $108 93 201 $198 0 0 0 0 $110 93 203 $198 0 0 0 0 $112 93 205 $0 100 114 25 25 2018 2019 $114 93 207 $0 100 122 26 26 $118 93 211 $0 100 124 27 28 198 198 264 274 279II 11 The Financial Implementation Strategy accommodates the 4 additional positions over a two year period with a Planner, a Planning Technician and a Plan Checker in the first year and an additional planner in the second year. Funding Previously Approved As stated above the position in the Engineering Department is a re-classed position the funding for which is already approved. In addition each year the approved budget also provides a small funding amount to accommodate addressed growth. The proposed strategy utilizes this approved funding. Temporary Funding from Reserves Council has had numerous presentations on the status of the City's reserve accounts. One of those accounts, the Building Inspection Reserve, includes reserves to be used to offset shortfalls in permit revenue. It is proposed that these reserves be used over a two year period to assist in temporarily funding the recommended staff. A�plication Fees The 2013 NAIOP survey shows that Maple Ridge has the some of lowest fees when the subdivision, rezoning, development permit and building permit fees are combined. The 2013 survey suggests that Maple Ridge fees are close to 22% below the average. The following Table 4 shows how much would have been collected on an annual basis over the past 6 years using a range of percentage increases. Table 4- Development Application Fee Revenues Rate Increase Additional Annual Revenue 5% $102,300 7.5% $153,500 10% $204,700 12.5% $255,800 15% $307,000 22% $450,000 In keeping with the previous direction of Council no application fee increase is proposed in the first two years. However it is suggested that a review of the application fee structure be undertaken given the service being expected by the development community. It is reasonable that in providing additional staff to the development process that the beneficiaries of the additional staff be required to contribute. 12 c) Alternatives: There are a multitude of combinations of general revenue, utility revenue and application fees that could be explored. Deciding on the most appropriate combination could be completed through the next Business Planning cycles. Council could also decide not to proceed with additional staff at this time. CONCLUSIONS: In the spring of 2014 Council asked that a report be provided on the needs of the development staffing area in light of the fact that development interest in Maple Ridge is predicted to remain very strong. The work Matrix adopted by Council included a report on Development Services Resources. The timing of the report was to follow Council's decisions on a number of work items with potentially significant impacts on staffing resources in the development processing area. This report examines how the level of service expected from the development community can be met. Recognizing the direction to keep tax increases low and the costs to the development community low the report proposes a financing methodology that will in the short term (two years) have no requirement for adjustments to the approved tax levels and no increases to the current application fee structure. However this strategy recognizes that beyond two years a permanent solution is required consisting of a combination of general revenue, utility revenue and additional application fees. Staff therefore recommends the addition of 4 new positions in Development Processing as detailed in this report, with the funding source for these 4 positions as noted in Table 3 of this Report. "Ori inal signed by Frank Quinn" Prepared by: Frank Quinn, MBA, P.Eng General Manager, Public Works & Development Services "Original si ned by Paul Gill" Approved by: Paul Gill General Manager, Corporate & Financial Services "Original signed bv J.L. Uim) Rule" Concurrence: J.L. (Jim) Rule Chief Administrative Officer 13 CORPORATION OF THE DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE BYLAW N0. 7042-2013 A Bylaw to amend Map "A" forming part of Zoning Bylaw No. 3510 -1985 as amended WHEREAS, it is deemed expedient to amend Maple Ridge Zoning Bylaw No. 3510 - 1985 as amended; NOW THEREFORE, the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the District of Maple Ridge, enacts as follows: 1. 2 3 This Bylaw may be cited as "Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7042-2013." That parcel or tract of land and premises known and described as: Lot 2 District Lot 248 Group 1 New Westminster District Plan 7478 and outlined in heavy black line on Map No. 1601 a copy of which is attached hereto and forms part of this Bylaw, is hereby rezoned to R-1(Residential District). Maple Ridge Zoning Bylaw No. 3510 - 1985 as amended and Map "A" attached thereto are hereby amended accordingly. READ a first time the 10t" day of December, 2013. READ a second time the 9t" day of September, 2014. PUBLIC HEARING held the 21St day of October, 2014. READ a third time the day of ADOPTED the PRESIDING MEMBER day of ,20 , 20 CORPORATE OFFICER 1001 N N I NIII N 7 6) N N N N N N 12461 AVE. N N 12411 12410 295 305 N 306 12407 `� 296 z 12 304 307 12401 � 12403 � 29� a o rn 12395 p 298 322 � � 12387 299 ... � M M I � * ZO7 N N OM I I M M M M �HO N N N � N N N N �2460 15f DOUGLAS AVE. ,2 181 15E N I IN P 51 HO M M M O M M � N Fs� 0� W N N N N N N N N � 206 � � 2R5 1�181 �a "' q m 201 200 � 199 15 ----- -m�----- -- 51180 P 1180 P 511 0 P 37851 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 °' � � o � N a � 97 � 98 N N N M M M M M M � N N N N N N N N N N 124 AVE 12386 � 303 12397 � o m O N � � M � � W 12377 0� 12383 ` N � o M M N M �,� 3�� N NwW J�2 3�U N � 2 N C N u N N 19 N M N 1238( 301 12375 LMP 1193 � 730 A g 309 a � � � � � 12370 ?86 285 284 283 310 67 P 7478 12369 `� N ti � N N ��� 282 12355 �$ � 20 � a12375 1e N N N � p 21229 311 12358 � � 12370 �� � LUM CT. 2�22$ 12343 112 113 � � a � v> '� � a 281 312 a 12353 Q 21 7`� � N N � P 37928 � � � 6 N N N 12331 � 12350 17 12350 1277 27g 27g N 2gp 313 � 12343 12330 P 24 56 12323 � 5 M P 157 4 � 6 22 � 25 26 27 P 56 39 12336 � 12323/25 20 319 318 317 316 315 6 7 H 12322 N � M O � N M 7 314 � � a M M W � N N N N N 4 a N M M M N �� �� N N N N N N N _ N _ N_ _ N� — — — — — — — 12324 N N N 123 AVE. RW 17412 � 35282 LMP 35019 LMP 35291 � v N �a M �`'� � (� W CO N W � W � M � M M M 34 N N � '� � � N N c".i 12291 M N 3 N N N N N N N J cn 5 N 1 N 2 N Rem 4 N Rem 5� � N14 13 12 11 10 35 � 12296 �� CP 6209 P 53 0 M 2 � � 33 3i � 12277 � 12294 a P 15 8 4 N 12287 � M M � 80424 2 J L P 11733 a 32 �2z�o `9 1 2� � 3 4� 5_ 6 3 � N N MAPLE RIDGE ZONE AMENDING Bylaw No. 7042-2013 Map No. 1601 From: RS-1 (One Family Urban Residential) To: R-1 (Residential District) N SCALE 1:2,000 CORPORATION OF THE DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE BYLAW N0. 7101-2014 A Bylaw to amend the Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 7060-2014 WHEREAS, it is deemed expedient to amend the Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 7060-2014 as amended: NOW THEREFORE, the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the District of Maple Ridge enacts as follows: 1. This bylaw may be cited as "Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw. No. 7101-2014". 2. Table of Contents is amended as follows: Add the following under Chapter 8 Development Permit Area Guidelines: "8.12 Wildfire Development Permit Area Guidelines 8.12.1 Key Guideline Concepts 8.12.2 Guidelines" 3. Chapter 8 Development Permit Area Guidelines is amended as follows: a. Sub-section 8.2 Application and Intent be amended by adding the following after item number 6: "7. Wildfire Development Permit pursuant to Section 919.1(1)(b) of the Local Government Act for the protection of development from hazardous conditions on designated lands as identified on Map 1: Wildfire Development Permit Area." b. Sub-section 8.4 Development Permit Area Exemptions be amended by adding the following after item number 3: "4. A Wildfire Development Permit is not required for the following and will be confirmed in writing by the District: a) Where an exterior renovation or addition to an existing structure is less than 50% of the market value of the current structure a Wildfire Development Permit will not be required. 1002.1 b) Interior renovations to an existing lawfully constructed or legally non- conforming building or structure wholly contained within and not project beyond the foundation. c) If a subdivision results in the creation of no more than two residential lots, and all the guidelines contained in 8.12 Wildfire Development Permit are adhered to by the developer and/or builder, a Wildfire Development Permit will not be required. d) On lands where a farm use, as defined in the Agricultural Land Reserve Use, Subdivision and Procedure Regulation B.C. Reg. 171/2002 or its successor, is being practiced and where the building design for residential buildings comply with the NFPA 1144 (latest edition) building guidelines, a Wildfire Development Permit will not be required. Non-residential farm buildings are exempt from all Wildfire Development Permit requirements, as long as they are sited at least 10 metres away from all residential buildings. e) Public works and services and maintenance activities carried out by, or on behalf of, the District of Maple Ridge. f) Any construction of a building or structure or any alteration of land that does not require a permit from the District." c. Add the following as sub-section 8.12 Wildfire Development Permit Area Guidelines: "Intent The Wildfire Development Permit Area Guidelines are intended for the protection of life and property in designated areas that could be at risk for wildland fire and where this risk, in some cases, may be reasonably abated through implementation of appropriate precautionary measures. A Development Permit is required for all development and subdivision activity or building permits for areas identified as wildfire risk areas identified in attached Map 1: Wildfire Development Permit Area. A Development Permit may not be required under certain circumstances indicated in the Development Permit Exemptions, Section 8.4, Item 4. These Development Permit Guidelines are to work in concert with all other regulations, guidelines and bylaws in effect. 8.12.1 Key Guideline Concepts The intent of the Key Guideline Concepts is to ensure that development within the Wildfire Development Permit Area is managed to minimize the risk to property and people from wildland-urban interface fire and to further reduce the risk of potential post- fire landslides and debris flows. -2- Applications for Wildfire Development Permits will be assessed against the following key guideline concepts: 1. Locate development on individual sites so that when integrated with the use of mitigating construction techniques the risk of wildfire impacts is reduced; 2. Mitigate wildfire impacts while respecting environmental conservation objectives and other hazards in the area; 3. Ensure identified wildfire interface risks are recognized and addressed within each stage of the land development process; and 4. Proactively manage potential fire behavior, thereby increasing the probability of successful fire suppression and containment and minimizing adverse impacts. 8.12.2 Guidelines A. Design and Construction 1. The design and construction of buildings and structures located within the boundaries of the Wildfire Development Permit Area (see attached Map 1: Wildfire Development Permit Area) shall be in accordance with 8.12 Wildfire Development Permit Area Guidelines. Specific details can be found in the standards set forth in the latest editions of the NFPA 1144 (Standard for Reducing Structure Ignition Hazards from Wildland Fire) and NFPA 1141(Standard for Fire Protection Infrastructure for Land Developments in Suburban and Rural Areas); and 2. The District of Maple Ridge Fire Chief may consider alternative design and construction solutions to the NFPA 1144 and 1141 standards if the alternate solution adheres to the intent of the Guidelines. See Wildfire Development Permit Application Checklist for details. B. Building Design and Siting 1. NFPA 1144 (Standard for Reducing Structure Ignition Hazards from Wildland Fire) building guidelines are to be used for all new development; 2. Fire resistant building materials and methods; a) Class A or B rated roofing material on new roofs and >50% roof replacements b) All vents are screened with metal screens c) Non combustible soffits d) Overhanging projections protected e) Overhanging buildings protected f) Exterior vertical wall clad with ignition resistive material g) Non combustible window screens h) Non combustible 20 minute rated exterior doors i) Spark arrestors on all wood burning appliances -3- j) Laminated or multi-paned windows 3. Buildings adjacent to the crest of a vegetated slope may require special mitigation measures determined by the Fire Department; and 4. Accessory buildings located within the Wildfire Development Permit Area buffer area, as identified in Item C(1) below, must meet the same building standards as the residential building(s). C. Wildfire Impact Mitigation through Design 1. The residential building elevation facing the forest edge should be located a minimum of 10 metres away from the adjacent high risk wildfire areas. 10 metre fire breaks must be created between all sides of the foundation and the forest interface (vegetation shall be modified to mitigate potential wildfire impacts within 10 metres of the foundations prior to the start of construction). The fuel break may include treating fuel on the existing parcel or developing a trail as a part of the fuel break, or included in an environmental and geotechnical setback if such treatment is mutually beneficial to the intent of the setback areas and FireSmart principles. 2. 10 metre fire breaks may incorporate cleared parks, roads, or trails; 3. Locate building sites in the flattest areas on the property and avoid gullies or draws that accumulate fuel and funnel winds; 4. To minimize the potential impacts to residential buildings in the Wildfire Development Permit Area, FireSmart standards should be incorporated taking into account: (1) siting form; (2) exterior design; and (3) finish of buildings and structures; 5. Steep roofs, hidden gutters around roofs and screens to cover attic vent openings are preferred in order to prevent the collection of leaves or needles and to reduce the risk of ember shower accumulation; 6. Where the District requires fire hydrants within a development, these must be fully functional prior to construction above the foundation level; 7. Where appropriate, if a trail system is planned for a subdivision and a park it should be capable of emergency vehicle access with a 1.5 metre trail base and a minimum of 2 metre cleared vegetation and pullouts for passing and turnaround every 500 metre (in areas where a 30 metre environmental setback is required, the District may consider including the trail within the 30 metre setback); and 8. Two means of access are preferred for subdivisions in a Wildfire Development Permit Area. If two access points are not possible then the single access must have the capability of accommodating two fire trucks - each with a width of 2.9 metres - safely passing each other. � D. Landscaping and Open Spaces 1. Landscaping should be designed based on FireSmart landscaping standards so as to ensure minimal fuel loading within the landscaped areas and provide ongoing resistance to wildfire. The type and density of fire resistive plantings incorporated within landscaped areas should help mitigate the interface fire impacts; and 2. Removal of all debris (wood and vegetation) after land clearing for development must be completed prior to the registration of any new subdivision plan. 3. A landscaping security may be required for landscaping works in accordance with the Maple Ridge Landscape Security Policy No. 6.28." E. Map 1: Wildfire Development Permit Area -5- �� — - � � -- r. �;�����.�. r- �.� �� � � = �, �,� � � - �_� ''"' r� ;�� � �� � �-;� � � ^ k �� R � - --- � � _ — + _ ur I � �� _ii i � �w�;;�l---, ---�— a � — � ''"_- � 'f � _ + �f�Y' � � J� � � � l� _ � f �,. � � � � '•-� I ' . � � _ .., c � -.. fTl -.�x � �� � �_'�� G- y.� . d�,, r ��� :. � � . ;��.�t. � s _ M ,� � �� � }�� ,.��,.,. . � ,.�. ) _ .�' �" �-~�-,., ���,1 _ FTI '� I Y �m � � � � � e � � � � �.� . rrl ,� � # �� � } } , � - . . T T � Y� � � _ _ � `�,, � ���. - � �� � � .�� � rf � a�acr � � � '� � � �,, I - ��• -- �. �7 � �, k i! s 54..� , � � I F r � - _ ndbf � TAst ' -t. � ` ! "' � d ' R � � � ' a m �� � t�}„ n �-. I � ��' ,� v �"'�+ r.r I � si :T �`I - � � � �� •, �* • i 3 � � �.�p � � � s .f � - . t .1. .,� k � . i��� - - � � � --- � iP?�� r ' _ yy - r, w : m r � 'k "i{i,v :' 1 / # � 3J63[ �k �� �-' . � 1I f 6T � ,r� m ,1 ��� � �� : d y �n � �m _., � � � �� :r`';,r � '�r ��, � .r.=? � �� i� f ��-� � �; ------- —� o � ti � ° m �� � �I - T ___ 3 T`�� .' �;----� � � .��_..,..--- --�- -�.._.��,.,...,�-----------, � ❑IS�fIGI �i is'iI551f71� � t _� —6— Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 7060-2014 as amended is hereby amended accordingly. READ a first time the 26t" day of August, 2014. READ a second time the 26t" day of August, 2014. PUBLIC HEARING held the 215tday of October, 2014. READ a third time the day of , 20 ADOPTED the day of , 20 PRESIDING MEMBER -7- CORPORATE OFFICER CORPORATION OF THE DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE BYLAW N0. 7102-2014 A Bylaw to amend the Maple Ridge Development Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No. 5879-1999 WHEREAS, it is deemed expedient to amend the Maple Ridge Development Procedures Bylaw No. 5879-1999 as amended: NOW THEREFORE, the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the District of Maple Ridge enacts as follows: 1. This bylaw may be cited as "Maple Ridge Development Procedures Amending Bylaw. No. 7102-2014". 2. Maple Ridge Development Procedures Bylaw No. 5879-1999 be further amended by adding: Schedule J Wildfire Development Permit Application attached hereto. READ a first time the 26t" day of August, 2014. READ a second time the 26t" day of August, 2014. READ a third time the 26t" day of August, 2014. ADOPTED the day of , 20 PRESIDING MEMBER Attachment: Schedule J CORPORATE OFFICER 1002.2 DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE PLANNING DEPARTMENT Development Application Submission Checklist Schedule J WILDFIRE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT APPLICATION A. INITIAL APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS The District will provide the opportunity for applicants to meet with staff from the appropriate departments early in the application process. Applications for Wildfire Development Permits are to be made to the Planning Department and must include the first five items listed below as the initial step in the process: 1) Site information based on a survey plan prepared by a certified B.C. Land Surveyor; 2) Current state of title certificate and copies of all restrictive covenants registered on title, including relevant schedules and attachments; 3) Location map; 4) Map or plan of the property including topography, natural features, existing structures, infrastructure, surface drainage, parcel boundaries, adjacent streets and rights-of-way; and 5) Detailed site plan and/or air photo overlay indicating the intended location of all proposed new lots, structures, approved environmental protection setback areas for watercourses, wetlands, and steep slopes, sewage disposal systems, stormwater detention, drainage works, driveways, parking areas or impervious surfaces, and servicing infrastructure. Also include details on the extent of the proposed site clearing. B. ASSESSMENT OF FIRE INTERFACE RISKS AND MITIGATION MEASURES Subsequent to a meeting with Planning, Fire, and Engineering staff, the following will be required: 1) Assessment of fire interface risks and mitigation measures by a Registered Professional Forester, qualified by training or experience in fire protection engineering, with at least two years' experience in fire protection engineering and assessment and mitigation of wildfire risks in British Columbia; and 2) A description of the methodology, criteria and assumptions used to undertake the assessment. -2- C. ASSESSMENT REPORT REQUIREMENTS The results of the assessment must include: 1) Identification of hazardous C2, C3 and C4 fuels at the wildland-urban interface edges of the planned subdivision and map these edges based on the drip-line of the trees at the wildland edge; 2) Recommendations for FireSmart fuel removal and fuel reduction zones to be completed for the entire development prior to Development Permit approval; 3) Recommendations for establishing defensive space around all buildings by spacing of all coniferous trees and maintaining and pruning of all remaining trees; 4) Recommendations for the type and placement of trees and other vegetation in proximity to the development; 5) Recommendations for the clean-up and proper disposal of combustible material remaining from construction as soon as construction is complete; 6) Recommendations for mitigation of wildfire risk on any wildland/green spaces to be handed over to the District; 7) Results of an assessment of "Wildland Fire Risk and Hazard Severity in the Structure Ignition Zone" as per NFPA 1144 (latest edition); 8) Recommendations for the removal and proper disposal of dead trees and continued efforts to keep the land free of accumulation of any dead trees; 9) Recommendations for removal and proper disposal of all tree limbs and shrubs that may overhang roofs or grow under building eaves and to continually maintain this condition; 10) Recommendations for the removal and disposal of all needles, dead twigs and branches, and to maintain the lands free of such accumulation; 11) A written synopsis demonstrating that the proposed development is consistent with the applicable Development Permit Guidelines as provided by the District, and NFPA 1144 (latest edition) (Standard for Reducing Structure Ignition Hazards from Wildland Fire) and NFPA 1141(latest edition) (Standard for Fire Protection Infrastructure for Land Developments in Suburban and Rural Areas) identifying any mitigation or compensation measures that may be specified as development permit or rezoning conditions; if alternative solutions are being proposed for the consideration of the Maple Ridge Fire Chief, as noted in Section 8.12.2(A)(2) of the Development Permit Area Guidelines, the alternative solutions must be provided by either a Fire Protection Engineer and/or a Registered Professional Forester registered with the Association of -3- BC Forest Professionals and other professionals as deemed necessary by the District. Note: The Registered Professional Forester must have at least two years' experience in fire protection engineering and with assessment and mitigation of wildfire hazards in British Columbia. The qualifications of the Registered Professional Forester must be acceptable to the District of Maple Ridge Fire Chief; 12) Conclusions of a qualified professional (as discussed in 11(a) above), accompanied by supporting rationale; and 13) The District may solicit a peer review by another qualified professional and/or ask for other additional information the District deems necessary. D. FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS 1) All wood, vegetation and construction debris identified in the Registered Professional Forester's report should be removed within three months of Development Permit issuance, or immediately during high fire risk seasons, and the District may require security in connection with such removal. 2) Coordination amongst all relevant consultants of record is recommended for final wildfire interface mitigation measures. Mitigation measures for wildfire areas must take place outside of approved environmental protection areas and geotechnical setback areas where possible, unless approved by the Fire Chief, Chief Building Official, and/or the District's Approving Officer. 3) All reports and information shall be prepared in a digital format, compatible with municipal GIS mapping program, as well as three paper copies and provided at the applicant's cost. All reports, opinions and plans shall be signed and sealed by the appropriate qualified professional. References: • National Fire Protection Association 1144 (Standard for Reducing Structure Ignition Hazards from Wildland Fire); • National Fire Protection Association 1141(Standard for Fire Protection Infrastructure for Land Developments in Suburban and Rural Areas); • The Home Owner's FireSmart Manual - Protecting Your Home From Wildfire; • FireSmart - Protecting Your Community From Wildfire. -4- CITY OF MAPLE RIDGE BYLAW N0. 7106-2014 A bylaw to amend Maple Ridge 2014-2018 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 7043-2013 WHEREAS, the public will have the opportunity to provide comments or suggestions with respect to the financial plan amendment; AND WHEREAS, Council deems this to a process of public consultation under Section 166 of the Community Charter; The Council for the City of Maple Ridge enacts as follows: 1. This Bylaw may be cited as Maple Ridge 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7106-2014. 2. Statement 1, Statement 2 and Statement 3 attached to and forming part of Maple Ridge 2014- 2018 Financial Plan Bylaw 7043-2013, as amended are deleted in their entirety and replaced by Statement 1, Statement 2 and Statement 3 attached and forming part of Maple Ridge 2014- 2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7106-2014. READ a first time the 14t" day of October, 2014. READ a second time the 14t" day of October, 2014. READ a third time the 14t" day of October, 2014. PUBLIC CONSULTATION completed on the day of , 2014. ADOPTED the _ day of , 2014. PRESIDING MEMBER ATTACHMENT: Statement 1, Statement 2 and Statement 3 CORPORATE OFFICER 1003 Attachment to Maple Ridge 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw 7106-2014 Statement 1 Consolidated Financial Plan 2014-2018 (in $ thousands) REVENUES Revenues Development Fees Developer Contributed Assets Developer Cost Charges Developer Specified Projects Parkland Acquisition Contributions from Others Development Fees Total Property Taxes Parcel Charges Fees & Charges Interest Grants (Other Govts) Property Sales Total Revenues EXPENDITURES Operating Expenditures Interest Payments on Debt Amortization Expense Other Expenditures Total Expenditures f►��F G ���7� 4s�►��F [:���F ����F E:3 16, 500 16, 500 16, 500 16, 500 16, 500 17,814 14,233 6,002 7,715 6,273 200 200 200 200 200 3,232 1,244 1,251 1,253 1,276 37,746 32,177 23,953 25,668 24,249 68,373 71,632 75,312 79,487 83,619 2,857 2,957 3,058 3,163 3,243 37,336 39,204 41,200 42,861 44,145 1, 853 1, 853 1, 853 1, 853 1, 853 5,390 4,524 4,991 3,759 3,421 - 4,250 - - - 153, 55 5 156, 59 7 150, 367 156, 791 160, 530 2,240 2,439 2,304 2,165 2,081 19,391 20,124 20,929 21,766 22,637 108,425 97,472 101,071 105,809 109,792 130,056 120,035 124,304 129, 740 134,510 ANNUAL SURPLUS 23,499 36,562 26,063 27,051 26,020 Add Back: Amortization Expense (Surplus) 19,391 20,124 20,929 21,766 22,637 Less: Capital Expenditures 67,232 39,112 23,213 19,103 21,593 Less: Developer Contributed Capital 16,500 16,500 16,500 16,500 16,500 CHANGE IN FINANCIAL POSITION (40,842) 1,074 7,279 13,214 10,564 OTHER REVENUES Add: Borrowing Proceeds OTHER EXPENDITURES Less: Principal Payments on Debt 18,495 - - - - 2,660 3,951 4,045 4,142 4,183 TOTAL REVENUES LESS EXPENSES (25,007) (2,877) 3,234 9,072 6,381 INTERNALTRANSFERS Transfer from Reserve Funds Capital Works Reserve Equipment Replacement Reserve Fire Department Capital Reserve Land Reserve Local Improvement Reserve Sanitary Sewer Reserve Transfer from Reserve Fund Total Less:Transferto Reserve Funds Capital Works Reserve Equipment Replacement Reserve Fire Dept. Capital Acquisition Land Reserve Local Improvement Reserve Sanitary Sewer Reserve Total Transfer to Reserve Funds 4,764 4,341 549 549 549 5,395 2,722 3,092 1,184 3,474 1,360 1,494 - - - 4,250 - - - 11,519 12,807 3,641 1,733 4,023 910 615 2,405 2,155 2,453 2,859 3,260 3,349 3,501 3,628 1,332 725 820 950 1,079 5 4,255 5 5 5 30 30 30 30 30 5,136 8,885 6,609 6,641 7,195 Transferfrom (to) Own Reserves 19,028 (78) (918) (1,783) (2,468) Transfer from (to) Surplus (404) (967) 652 (2,381) (741) Transferfrom (to) Surplus & own Reserves 18,624 (1,045) (266) (4,164) (3,209) TOTAL INTERNAL TRANSFERS 25,007 2,877 (3,234) (9,072) (6,381) BALANCED BUDGEf Attachment to Maple Ridge 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw 7106-2014 Statement 2 Revenue and Property Tax Policy Disclosure Revenue Disclosure Revenue Proportions 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 $ ('OOOs) % $ ('OOOs) % $ ('OOOs) % $ ('OOOs) % $ ('OOOs) % PropertyTaxes 68,373 39 71,632 46 75,312 51 79,487 51 83,619 53 Parcel Charges 2,857 2 2,957 2 3,058 2 3,163 2 3,243 2 Fees & Charges 37,336 22 39,204 25 41,200 27 42,861 27 44,145 27 Borrowing Proceeds 18,495 11 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 Other Sources 44,989 26 42,804 27 30,797 20 31,280 20 29,523 18 Total Revenues 172,050 100 156,597 100 150,367 100 156,791 100 161,530 100 Other Sources include: Development Fees Total 37,746 22 32,177 20 23,953 16 25,668 17 24,249 15 I nterest 1,853 1 1,853 1 1,853 1 1,853 1 1,853 1 Grants (Other Govts) 5,390 3 4,524 3 4,991 3 3,759 2 3,421 2 Property Sales - 0 4,250 3 - 0 - 0 - 0 44,989 26 42,804 27 30,797 20 31,280 20 29,523 18 Objectives & Policies Property Tax Revenue is the City's primary revenue source, and one which is heavily reliant on the residential class. Diversification of the tax base and generation of non-tax revenue are ongoing objectives, outlined in Financial Sustainability Policy 5.52 section 6. The Financial Plan includes property tax increases totaling 2.95% annually for: • General Purposes • Infrastructure Sustainability • Parks and Recreation Master Plan implementation • Drainage Improvements Additional property tax revenue due to new construction is also included in the Financial Plan at 2.05% in 2014 and 2°/o annually for 2015 through 2018. Additional information on the tax increases and the cost drivers can be found in the 2014-2018 Financial Plan Overview Report. Specific policies discussing the tax increases are included in the Financial Sustainability Plan and related policies which were adopted in 2004. Property tax revenue includes property taxes as well as grants in lieu of property taxes. Parcel Charges are largely comprised of a recycling charge, a sewer charge and, on certain properties, a local area service or improvement charge. Parcel charges are a useful tool to charge all or a subset of properties for a fixed or variable amount to support services. Unlike property taxation the variable amount does not need to be related to property assessment value, but can be something that more accurately reflects the cost of the service. Attachment to Maple Ridge 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw 7106-2014 Statement 2 �cont.> Revenue and Property Tax Policy Disclosure Fees & Charges The Business Planning Guidelines call for an increase of 5% in fees as a guideline. Actual fee increases vary depending on the individual circumstances, the type of fee and how it is calculated. Fees should be reviewed annually and updated if needed. Recent fee amendments include recreation fees, development application fees, business license fees and cemetery fees. A major amendment to the Development Costs Charges (DCC), recommended no more frequently than every five years, was completed in 2008. Minor DCC amendments are done more frequently. Some fees are used to offset the costs of providing specific services. The utility fees are reviewed annually with a view towards using rate stabilization practices to smooth out large fluctuations in rates, as set out in the Business Planning Guidelines. Borrowing Proceeds - Debt is used where it makes sense. Caution is used when considering debt as it commits future cash flows to debt payments restricting the ability to use these funds to provide other services. The source of the debt payments needs to be considered as does the justification for advancing the project. More information on borrowing previously approved can be found in the 2014-2018 Financial Plan Overview report. Other Sources will vary greatly year to year as it includes: • Development fees which fund capital projects from the DCC Reserve • Contribution from others in relation to capital • Grants which are sought from various agencies and may be leveraged with City funds PROPERTY TAX DISCLOSURE Property Tax Revenue Distribution Property Class 1 Residential 2 Utility 4 Major Industry 5 Light Industry 6 Business/Other 8 Rec./Non-Profit 9 Farm Taxation Revenue ('OOOs) 51,558 77.8% 516 0.8°/a 621 0.9°/a 2,643 4.0% 10,697 16.2% 37 0.1% 151 0.2% Assessed Value ('OOOs) 11,553,748 91.4% 12,911 0.1% 17,774 0.1% 207,624 1.6% 840,214 6.7% Tax Rate Multiple ($/1000) (Rate/Res.Rate) 4.4625 1.0 40.0000 9.0 34.9163 12.7314 12.7314 2,894 0.0% 12.8080 4,983 0.1% 30.3483 Total 66,224 100% 12,640,148 100% 7.8 2.9 2.9 2.9 6.8 Attachment to Maple Ridge 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw 7106-2014 Statement 2 �cont.> Revenue and Property Tax Policy Disclosure PROPERTY TAX DISCLOSURE Objectives & Policies Property taxes are the City's largest source of revenue and are contained by efficient business practices. Annual business planning practices are the mechanism for resource allocation decisions. The City's Financial Sustainability Policy section 6 discusses the necessity of diversifying the tax base. Development of employment related properties is one method of diversification; therefore a key performance measurement in Strategic Economic Initiatives tracks the increased investment and development of non-residential properties. A policy in the Financial Sustainability Plan that calls for stable tax increases and the adoption of the annual increase early in the prior year in the Business Planning Guidelines provides citizens with a more stable and predictable set of cost increases. In some cases costs are phased in over multiple years to stay within the set tax increases. Property Tax Rates It is policy to adjust property tax rates annually to negate the impact of fluctuations in the market values of properties. Tax rates are reduced to negate the market increases. Property tax increases are then applied at the same relative increase for all classes, unless legislation restricts the rates, as with Class 2, Utility. The Business Class and Light Industry Class properties have the same tax rate and are treated as a composite class when setting the tax rates, as the types of businesses in each class are similar. A review was done on the Major Industry Class rates and the recommendation from the Audit and Finance Committee and Council was a 5% property tax reduction in both 2009 and 2010 to support additional investments in the subject property and to keep rates competitive. In the 2014 - 2018 Financial Plan, property taxes charged to major industrial class properties have been reduced; it starts at $70,000 in 2014, increasing by $70,000 in each year of the plan. In reviewing the tax rates to ensure competitiveness, absolute rates, tax multiples and overall tax burden are considered. The impact that assessed values have when comparing other geographical areas must be considered in a comparison of tax rates. Permissive Tax Exemptions Council has set policies around the use of permissive tax exemptions. These are Council Policies 5.19 through 5.24. These policies discuss Churches, Community Halls, Heritage Sites, Homes for the Care of Children and the Relief of the Aged, the Poor, the Disabled and the Infirm, Municipal Recreational Services, Private Hospitals and Daycares, Private School and Youth Recreation Groups. Revitalization Tax Exemption A revitalization tax exemption is available within a defined downtown area and provides a financial incentive to encourage development in the town centre. Further financial incentives are available for buildings that qualify; additional information on the town centre incentives can be found on our website. For more information on the tax exemption, please refer to both Bylaw 6789-2011 and 7010-2013. Attachment to Maple Ridge 2014-2018 Financial Plan Amending Bylaw 7106-2014 Statement 3 Capital Expenditure Disclosure The sole purpose of this statement is to meet legislative requirements, highlighting the value of the DCC program; no other conclusions should be drawn from the figures as the information could be misleading. This disclosure is required under the Local Government Act s. 937(2); Capital costs attributable to projects to be partially funded by Development Cost Charges (DCC) must be included in the financial plan. The DCC program includes projects as far out as 2035 so the capital expenditures must be extended to match. Certain types of projects are not planned past the five year time horizon of the financial plan. Much less scrutiny is given to projects that are planned in years 2019 through 2035. Projects in these years typically exceed likely funding available. Capital Improvement Program for 2019 - 2035 (in $ thousands) Capital Improvement Program Source of Funding Development Fees Development Cost Charges Parkland Acquisition Reserve Contribution from Others Borrowing Proceeds G ra nts Reserve Funds Capital Works Reserve Cemetery Reserve Equipment Replacement Reserve Fire Department Capital Reserve Reserve Funds Revenue Funds & Reserve Accounts Source of Funding 345,140 138,946 200 7,667 146,814 6,319 41,695 8,935 115 2,483 2,736 14,269 136,043 345,140 CITY OF MAPLE RIDGE BYLAW N0. 7112 - 2014 A Bylaw to Establish a Revitalization Tax Exemption Program WHEREAS Council may, by bylaw, establish a revitalization tax exemption program to encourage various types of revitalization to achieve a range of economic, social and environmental objectives, pursuant to the Community Charter, AND WHEREAS Council has given notice of the proposed Bylaw in accordance with the Community Charter; NOW THEREFORE, the Council of the City of Maple Ridge enacts as follows: PART 1 CITATION 1.1 This Bylaw may be cited as "Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Bylaw No. 7112 - 2014". PART 2 SEVERABILITY 2.1 If any part, section, subsection, clause, or sub clause of this Bylaw is, for any reason, held to be invalid by the decision of a Court of competent jurisdiction, such decision does not affect the validity or the remaining portions of this Bylaw. PART 3 DEFINITIONS 3.1 In this Bylaw: "Building Permit" means a City of Maple Ridge Building Permit; "Building Permit Value" means the construction value as stated on a printed Building Permit; "Council" means the municipal Council of the City of Maple Ridge; "ELIIP" means Employment Land Investment Incentive Program pursuant to this Bylaw; "Green Project" means a project achieving LEEDO-Silver, Gold or Platinum certification, or a project that uses energy from renewable resources for 51% or more of its total energy consumption for the ongoing operation of the building, and is not provided by BC Hydro. The intent is to support the use of alternative, renewable energy sources. Examples include solar, wind, water, geothermal, and biomass. Other certification programs in building performance achievement may also be considered eligible provided that the program(s) receive prior approval through a Revitalization Tax Exemption agreement; "Lot" means a parcel of land registered in the Land Registry Office; 1004.1 "Municipal Property Tax" means the property taxes Council has imposed pursuant to Schedule A of the Maple Ridge Tax Rates Bylaw, and does not include any other property taxes; "Non-Market Change" means the change as determined by BC Assessment under the Assessment Act, to a lot's assessed value as a result of the Project; "Owner" means a person registered in the Land Title and Survey Authority's records as owner of land or of a charge on land, whether entitled to it in the person's own right or in a representative capacity or otherwise, and includes a registered owner; "Program" means the program established by Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Bylaw No.7112 - 2014; "Project" means a project as outlined in Part 6 of this Bylaw, and does not include any construction that is outside the scope of this Bylaw; "Tax Exemption" means a Revitalization Tax Exemption pursuant to this Bylaw. PART 4 ESTABLISHMENT OF EMPLOYMENT LAND INVESTMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM AREAS, AND A REVITALIZATION TAX EXEMPTION PROGRAM 4.1 Pursuant to the Community Charter, there is hereby established the Employment Land Investment Incentive Program (ELIIP) Areas, as outlined on Appendices "B" through "F", which are attached to and form part of this Bylaw. The Appendices, listed below, are representative of the Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Areas; if there is any discrepancy, the official version shall prevail. i. Appendix B: 256 Street ii. Appendix C: Albion Industrial Area iii. Appendix D: Kanaka Business Park iv. Appendix E: Lougheed East v. Appendix F: Maple Meadows 4.2 Pursuant to the Community Charter, there is hereby established a Revitalization Tax Exemption Program for the ELIIP Areas, providing a Revitalization Tax Exemption for Lots with Projects meeting Program requirements. PART 5 PROGRAM REASONS, OBJECTIVES AND PRINCIPLES 5.1 The Employment Land Investment Incentive Program has been established to encourage accelerated private sector investment on employment lands to help implement the Commercial & Industrial Strategy updated August 2014, prepared for the City of Maple Ridge by: G.P. Rollo & Associates. Revitalization Tax Exemptions are one element of that program. 5.2 A Revitalization Tax Exemption is established under this Bylaw to: a. Improve the ratio ofjobs to housing; b. Expand employment opportunities for citizens; c. Attract investment to create a strong local economy; d. Diversify the tax base; e. Improve the industrial to residential property tax ratio; f. Encourage the use of environmentally sustainable building construction methods and materials; and, g. Encourage energy efficiency and alternative technologies. 5.3 When considering applications for inclusion under this program, the following principles will be considered; i. Bricks and mortar (property value) contributes to the City's revenue stream; ii. Industrial land should be retained for industrial uses; iii. Focus on attracting high value jobs and high job densities; iv. Focus on businesses not driven by population growth -"retail follows rooftops"; v. Time limited programs provide momentum; vi. Incentives shouldn't draw businesses away from the Town Centre; vii. The Town Centre commercial sector needs continued support; and, viii. A multi-pronged approach is needed; incentives alone are not the answer. PART 6 ELIGIBLE PROJECTS 6.1 The Project must be situated on a Lot identified as an Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area, outlined on Appendices B, C, D, E, and F, which are attached to and form part of this Bylaw. 6.2 The Project must be of an industrial use as defined in the Maple Ridge Zoning Bylaw, except for the ineligible uses outlined on Appendix A, which is attached to and forms part of this Bylaw. 6.3 A Building Permit must have an issue date of not before Friday, January 2, 2015, and not after Friday, December 28, 2018, to qualify. 6.4 The Project must meet all Program criteria and comply with all applicable land use and other City of Maple Ridge regulations. 6.5 The Project must have a Building Permit Value greater than or equal to $250,000. PART 7 TAX EXEMPTION 7.1 The terms and conditions upon which a Revitalization Tax Exemption Certificate may be issued are as set out in this Bylaw, the Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreement and the Revitalization Tax Exemption Certificate. 7.2 A Revitalization Tax Exemption Certificate shall apply to a Lot after the following conditions are met: a. The Owner of the Lot has met all applicable provisions of this Bylaw; b. The Owner of the Lot has entered into a Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreement with the City of Maple Ridge; c. The Owner of the Lot has met all terms and conditions as set out in the Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreement; and, d. The Owner has applied for a Revitalization Tax Exemption Certificate and a Revitalization Tax Exemption Certificate has been issued for the Lot. 7.3 For Projects not meeting the definition of a Green Project, a Tax Exemption from Municipal Property Tax will be granted on the amount of Non-Market Change where all the conditions as stated in Part 7 of this Bylaw have been met. The Tax Exemption will apply for the duration and portions, as follows: i. Year 1: 100°/o; ii. Year 2: 80%; iii. Year 3: 60%; iv. Year 4: 40%; v. Year 5: 20%; vi. Year 6 and subsequent years: 0%. 7.4 For Green Projects, a Tax Exemption from Municipal Property Tax will be granted on the amount of Non-Market Change where all the conditions as stated in Part 7 of this Bylaw have been met. The Tax Exemption will apply for the duration and portions, as follows: i. Year 1: 100°/o; ii. Year 2: 90%; iii. Year 3: 80%; iv. Year 4: 70%; v. Year 5: 60%; vi. Year 6: 50°/o; vii. Year 7: 40°/o; viii. Year 8: 30%; ix. Year 9: 20%; x. Year 10: 10°/o; xi. Year 11 and subsequent years: 0%. 7.5 For a Tax Exemption to commence in a given year, an Owner must submit an Application for a Revitalization Tax Exemption Certificate to the City of Maple Ridge by the last business day in September of the preceding year. 7.6 A Revitalization Tax Exemption Program Certificate may be revoked by Council by means of any of the following infractions: a. The Owner breaches any covenant, condition or obligation as set out in the Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreement; b. The Lot is put to any use that is not permitted or fails to meet any of the Project eligibility requirements as outlined in Part 6 of this Bylaw; c. The Lot is put to use as one of the ineligible uses outlined on Appendix A, which is attached to and forms part of this Bylaw; d. The Owner breaches: Any enactments, laws, statutes, regulations and orders by any authority havingjurisdiction, including bylaws of the City of Maple Ridge; Any federal, provincial, municipal, and environmental licences, permits and approvals. 7.7 For a Revitalization Tax Exemption Program Certificate that is revoked due to the infractions noted in Part 7, Section 7.6 of this Bylaw, the City of Maple Ridge may recapture the value of the Tax Exemption provided on the Lot, for the current and any previous taxation years to which the Revitalization Tax Exemption Program Certificate applies, back to the date when the infraction first occurred. Failure on the part of the Owner to remit the recaptured amount within thirty (30) days will result in the amount being placed on the general property tax bill for the Lot. 7.8 In cases where a building is comprised of strata Lot units, a Tax Exemption will be apportioned proportionate to the assessed value for each unit as determined by BC Assessment. READ a first time this 14th day of October, 2014. READ a second time this 14th day of October, 2014. READ a third time this 14th day of October , 2014. ADOPTED this day of , 2014. PRESIDING MEMBER CORPORATE OFFICER Attachments: • Appendix A- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program - Ineligible Uses • Appendix B- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - 256 Street • Appendix C- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - Albion Industrial Area • Appendix D- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - Kanaka Business Park • Appendix E- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - Lougheed East • Appendix F- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - Maple Meadows Appendix A- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program - Ineligible Uses Employment Land Investment Incentive Program incentives apply to all industrial uses defined in the Maple Ridge Zoning Bylaw, except the following uses currently permitted under the industrial zones. These uses would typically have either lower job densities or lower value jobs, and therefore would not meet the objectives of the Employment Land Investment Incentive Program: • Dance schools, fitness centres and gymnastics schools • Auction marts • Mini-warehouses • Parking of unoccupied commercial and recreational vehicles • Indoor commercial recreational uses • Resta u ra nts • Childcare centres • Retail warehouse operations ("big box") • Operations relating to medical marihuana Appendix B- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - 256 Street Sva a• 1•7.�v7 2�G �treet �!T�` OF h,9APLE RID�� � �� F'��k��=!Rkn-':�ti' �I �I ��� e�.-e sbx t4. zc14 a�r v- Appendix C- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - Albion Industrial Area N 5:a a � �2.C: �ra ��°r ` '•! P g. �� �5� ::- ��� �3�:2: - �s r� ��� I� � � i� ���„� _��<<_��� ���.� rnt C ry at !�fs=:e R age rraKe� no guaranue rogud�ng rr►►e rtt.racy o� �trsenS sra:ls cf sna �nra^�a:o^ s^:+,w a^ :^:s maa � AlblOr� � o � � - CITY dF h9APLE RI�GE � � r= .. ..._ + '�c•• � CA'� Se_�9.�C�L 3Y = Appendix D- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - Kanaka Business Park Sva a• 1:E.UC7 � ��- ���� ' _;_, �*'.`' �.'�,;�i :�� � �•i�.' �,.�L tt :' } " �yt �A� �� '! x k , _� �I� ' "5 � � .�' _ �r �"_ P R '� ° '"�?�c�9 �5S _u8'S:5'.P° a^c_: a^{ o• ^;e3er�L 57a+..3 oi i.i= � ii_ a. _' 9' _ �r i _ .":5 '�586. �Car:aka Business Par� � r � � � �!T�` OF h,9APLE RID�� � F'� �k �� =!Rkn -': �ti' e�.-e sbx t4. zc14 Appendix E- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - Lougheed East w�r:� }c� k_�safJ � � n �� � - � m _ � i7 � �y Appendix F- Employment Land Investment Incentive Program Area - Maple Meadows Sva a• � 12.v � � ��� ��"R���_�ryr,. � ! � `'�L'kt_:� f" i�4 ���' ��� !. k � , � � �, .y r � .� �" _ � i��.�. r�,���i� r,������4��� T � �!T�` OF h,9APLE #�ID�� c� �w �� =_vx�-�: ew- e�.-e sbx t4. zc14 a�� v- CITY OF MAPLE RIDGE BYLAW N0. 7109 - 2014 A Bylaw to amend Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Program Bylaw No. 7010 - 2013 WHEREAS pursuant to provisions in the Community Charter Council has, by bylaw, established a revitalization tax exemption program to encourage various types of revitalization to achieve a range of economic, social and environmental objectives; AND WHEREAS, Council may amend this bylaw pursuant to the Community Charter; AND WHEREAS, for the purpose of extending the Town Centre Investment Incentive Program for a period of two years, it is deemed expedient to further amend Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Program Bylaw No. 7010 - 2013; AND WHEREAS, Council has given notice of the proposed Bylaw in accordance with the Community Charter, NOW THEREFORE, the Council of the City of Maple Ridge enacts as follows: 1. This Bylaw may be cited as "Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Program Amending Bylaw No. 7109 - 2014". 2. Maple Ridge Revitalization Tax Exemption Program Bylaw No. 7010 - 2013 is hereby amended accordingly: a) PART 7- ELIGIBLE PROJECTS is amended by: Deleting Section 7.2 in its entirety and replacing it with: 7.2 A Building Permit must have an issue date of not before Tuesday, December 31, 2013, and not after Friday, December 30, 2016, to qualify. ii. Deleting Section 7.4 a. in its entirety and replacing it with: 7.4 a. Mixed-Use Building Construction where the Building Permit Value of the Commercial Portion of the building is greater than or equal to $1,000,000. READ a first time this 14th day of October, 2014. READ a second time this 14th day of October, 2014. READ a third time this 14th day of October, 2014. ADOPTED this day of , 2014. PRESIDING MEMBER CORPORATE OFFICER 1004.2 CITY OF MAPLE RIDGE BYLAW N0. 7110-2014 A Bylaw to amend the Maple Ridge Off-Street Parking and Loading Bylaw 4350-1990 WHEREAS, it is deemed expedient to further amend Maple Ridge Off-Street Parking and Loading Bylaw 4350-1990 as amended; NOW THEREFORE, The Municipal Council of the City of Maple Ridge enacts as follows: 1. This bylaw may be cited as "Maple Ridge Off-Street Parking and Loading Amending Bylaw No. 7110-2014". 2. Schedule "A", Section 10.0, Maple Ridge Town Centre Parking Standards, sub-section 10.1 Application of Town Centre Parking Standards, item (a)(2) shall be deleted and replaced with the following: 2. within Sub-Area 1 for a commercial use only, if the development application is received by the end of business day on: a. July 15, 2016 for rezoning applications; and b. September 30, 2016 for development permit applications. 3. Schedule "A", Section 10.0, Maple Ridge Town Centre Parking Standards, sub-section 10.1 Application of Town Centre Parking Standards, item (b) shall be deleted and replaced with the following: b) Properties located within the Town Centre Area, as shown on attached Schedule "D", and not identified for reduced parking standards in item 10.1(a) above, are required to provide parking as identified in Sections 1.0 through 9.0 of this Schedule "A". READ a first time this 14th day of October, 2014. READ a second time this 14t" day of October, 2014. READ a third time this 14t" day of October, 2014. ADOPTED this day of , 2014. PRESIDING MEMBER CORPORATE OFFICER 1004.3 City of Maple Ridge COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING MINUTES October 20, 2014 1:00 p.m. Council Chamber PRESENT Elected Officials Appointed Staff Mayor E. Daykin J. Rule, Chief Administrative Officer Councillor C. Ashlie K. Swift, General Manager of Community Development, Councillor C. Bell Parks and Recreation Services Councillor J. Dueck P. Gill, General Manager Corporate and Financial Services Councillor A. Hogarth C. Carter, Acting General Manager Public Works and Councillor B. Masse Development Services Councillor M. Morden C. Carter, Director of Planning C. Marlo, Manager of Legislative Services Other Staff as Required C. Goddard, Manager of Development and Environmental Services D. Hall, Planner 2 A. Kopystynski, Planner 2 T. Thompson, Manager of Financial Planning 1. DELEGATIONS/STAFF PRESENTATIONS 1.1 Tree Protection Bylaw • Allen and Jessie Joy Lees Mr. and Miss Lees distributed their presentation and provided an overview of the suggestions within the presentation for improvements to the City's Tree Protection Bylaw. 2. PUBLIC WORKS AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Note: The following items have been numbered to correspond with the Council Agenda: 1100 Committee of the Whole Minutes October 20, 2014 Page 2 of 9 1101 Application to Exclude Land from the Agricultural Land Reserve, 25638 and 25676 112 Avenue Staff report dated October 20, 2014 providing resolutions for Council's consideration and recommending that Application 2014-060-AL be forwarded to the Agricultural Land Commission. The Planner 2, D. Hall, gave a Power Point presentation providing the following information: • Application Information • OCP Context • Neighbourhood Context • Site Characteristics • Development Proposal • Portion of Properties to be Excluded • Concurrent Subdivision Application • Environmental Context Map • Recommendation RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. Note: Mayor Daykin excused himself from the meeting at 1:32 p.m. as he rents office space in this location. Councillor Masse excused himself at 1:32 p.m. as he has office space in the neighbourhood. 1102 2014-074-CU, 22245 Lougheed Highway Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7108-2014 to temporarily allow CS-1 (Service Commercial) uses in an existing building on a C-3 (Town Centre Commercial) zoned property. Committee of the Whole Minutes October 20, 2014 Page 3 of 9 The Manager of Development and Environmental Services gave a Power Point presentation providing the following information: • Application Information • Neighbourhood Context • OCP Context • Site Characteristics • Recommendation RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. Mayor Daykin and Councillor Masse returned at 1:35 p.m. 1103 2012-004-RZ, 23791112 Avenue, RS-3 to R-1 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7111-2014 to rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) to R-1(Residential District) to permit approximately 16 single family residents lots be given first reading and that the applicant provide further information as described on Schedules A, B, F and G of the Development Procedures Bylaw No. 5879-1999, along with a Subdivision application. The Manager of Development and Environmental Services gave a Power Point presentation providingthe following information: • Application Information • OCP Context • Neighbourhood Context • Site Characteristics • Development Proposal • Proposed Subdivision Plan • Recommendation RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. Committee of the Whole Minutes October 20, 2014 Page 4 of 9 1104 2014-091-RZ, 12420 Ansell Street, RS-3 to RS-2 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7115-2014 to rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) to RS-2 (One Family Suburban Residential) to allow for a two lot subdivision be given first reading and that the applicant provide further information as described on Schedule B of the Development Procedures Bylaw No. 5879-1999, along with information required for a Subdivision application. The Manager of Development and Environmental Services gave a Power Point presentation providingthe following information: • Application Information • OCP Context • Neighbourhood Context • Development Proposal • Proposed Site Plan • Recommendation RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. 1105 2012-119-RZ, 24108104 Avenue and 10336 240A Street, RS-3 and RS-2 to RM-1 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 6969-2013 to rezone from RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) and RS-2 (One Family Suburban Residential) to RM-1 (Townhouse Residential) to permit future development of 97 townhouse units be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing. Committee of the Whole Minutes October 20, 2014 Page 5 of 9 The Manager of Development and Environmental Services gave a Power Point presentation providing the following information: • Application Information • OCP Context • Neighbourhood Context • Site Characteristics • Development Proposal • Development Proposal Update • 104 Avenue and Main & Secondary Site Entrance Perspectives • Revised Site Plan • Revised Double Car Garage Floor Plan • Garage Configurations • Elevations • Landscape Plan • Recommendations RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. 1106 2014-023-RZ, 21434 121 Avenue, RS-1b to R-1 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7074-2014 to rezone from RS-1b (One Family Urban [Medium Density] Residential) to R-1 (Residential District) to permit future subdivision into two single family lots be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing. The Manager of Development and Environmental Services gave a Power Point presentation providing the following information: • Application Information • OCP Context • Neighbourhood Context • Site Characteristics • Development Proposal • Proposed Subdivision Plan • Recommendation Committee of the Whole Minutes October 20, 2014 Page 6 of 9 RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. 1107 2014-043-RZ, 13065 Katonien Street, Text Amendment Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Zone Amending Bylaw No. 7090-2014 to permit a site-specific text amendment to the M-2 (General Industrial) zone to permit an "Indoor Mountain and BMX Biking Facility" be given second reading and be forwarded to Public Hearing and that a parking study be submitted prior to final reading. The Planner 2, A. Kopystynski, gave a Power Point presentation providing the following information: • Application Information • Neighbourhood Context • OCP Context • Site Characteristics • Development Proposal • Proposed Subdivision Plan • Preliminary Elevations • Entrance details • Example of Interior • Recommendation RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. 1108 RZ/021/04, 20870 Lougheed Highway, Final One Year Extension Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that rezoning application RZ/021/04 to rezone from RS-1 (One Family Urban Residential) to CS-1 (Service Commercial) to permit mobile equipment storage and improve internal circulation for the existing equipment rental business be granted a final one year extension. Committee of the Whole Minutes October 20, 2014 Page 7 of 9 RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. Note: Councillor Hogarth excused himself at 2:00 p.m. as he manages the property under application 2011-098-RZ . 1109 2011-089-RZ, 22309, 22319 and 22331 St. Anne Avenue, Final One Year Extension Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that rezoning application 2011-089-RZ to permit the relocation, restoration and adaptive re-use of an existing heritage house into a duplex and construction of a 66 unit four-storey multi-family apartment complex be granted a final one year extension. RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. Note: Councillor Hogarth returned at 2:03 p.m. 1110 2012-038-SD, 12116 and 12170 204B Street, Money in Lieu of Parkland Dedication Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that the owner of land proposed for subdivision at 12116 and 12170 204B Street pay an amount that is not less than $26,500.00. RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. 3. FINANCIAL AND CORPORATE SERVICES (including Fire and Police) 1131 Maple Ridge Development Cost Charge Reserve Fund Expenditure Amending Bylaw No. 7116-2014 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that Maple Ridge Development Cost Charge ("DCC") Reserve Fund Expenditure Amending Bylaw Committee of the Whole Minutes October 20, 2014 Page 8 of 9 No. 7116-2014 to authorize the expenditure of funds from the DCC Reserve Fund be given first, second and third readings. The Manager of Financial Planning provided an overview of the report. RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. Note: Councillor Hogarth excused himself at 2:05 p.m. as a family member is employed by one of the applicants under item 1132. 1132 Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreements Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that the Corporate Officer be authorized to execute Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreements with the qualified property owners as listed in Appendix A of the report. RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. Note: Councillor Hogarth returned at 2:07p.m. 1133 Disbursements for the month ended September 30, 2014 Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that the disbursements for the month ended September 30, 2014 be approved. RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. 1134 2014 Council Expenses Staff report dated October 20, 2014 providing Council expenses for 2014 updated to the end of September 2014. Committee of the Whole Minutes October 20, 2014 Page 9 of 9 RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. 4. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND RECREATION SERVICES 1151 Joint Leisure Services Review Staff report dated October 20, 2014 recommending that the recommendations in the Joint Parks and Leisure Services Model Review report dated July 31, 2014 prepared by Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. and the implementation approach described in the staff report be endorsed. RECOMMENDATION That the staff report be forwarded to the Council Meeting of October 28, 2014. 5. CORRESPONDENCE - N i I 6. OTHER ISSUES - N i I 7. ADJOURNMENT - 2:10 p.m. 8. COMMUNITY FORUM J. Dueck, Acting Mayor Presiding Member of the Committee MAPLE RIDGE 6ritith Co[umhla T0: FROM: City of Maple Ridge His Worship Mayor Ernie Daykin MEETING DATE: October 28, 2014 and Members of Council FILE N0: 11-5255-40-159 Chief Administrative Officer MEETING: Council SUBJECT: October 2014 Final Report - Strategic Transportation Plan EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The City of Maple Ridge is one of the fastest growing municipalities within Metro Vancouver, growing by 60% over the last twenty years and anticipated to grow from the current population of just over 80,000 to 110,000 residents by 2031. Such levels of growth present significant challenges to the goal of developing an effective multi-modal transportation system within the City, exacerbated by an existing incomplete road grid network and limited major east-west corridors. The 2004 Draft Strategic Transportation Plan (STP) focused on improving highway connections in and out of the City, specifically to the west and south, including improvements on the Lougheed Highway approaching and across the Pitt River as well as a new tolled crossing over the Fraser River. Since the original 2004 Draft STP was prepared, the Pitt River Bridge has been replaced with a new six-lane structure and the Golden Ears Bridge has been constructed, both structures also incorporating extensive associated roadwork improvements. In addition, the Lougheed Highway in Pitt Meadows from Dewdney Trunk Road west to Harris Road has been widened to six lanes, incorporating a new HOV lane westbound to Harris Road. Council has provided input into the development of the plan at the following meetings: • May 14, 2012 • April 8, 2013 • February 17, 2014 • September 15, 2014 The STP is now ready for endorsement by Council. The main focus of the STP currently under consideration by Council is to present a comprehensive review of the various transportation modes throughout the City in order to shape and support planned growth twenty years into the future, namely the Road Network, the Pedestrian Plan, the Bicycle Network Plan, and the Transit Strategy. Each element of the STP outlines the challenges and opportunities, and outlines a number of actions to achieve the stated goals of the STP. The components are: Road Network: Identify improvements to both major and minor corridors, as well as identifying new roadways, intersection improvements and neighbourhood traffic management. Pedestrians: Define facilities and programs to encourage walking as a viable transportation option for all residents by enhancing walking infrastructure connectivity and accessibility in both built areas as well as developing areas. Bicycles: While there is a core of dedicated cyclists in the City the goal is to encourage casual cyclists by providing bicycle facilities that are both safe and comfortable and that incorporate different levels of facility depending upon the specific bike ro ute. 1201 Transit Strategy: As transit is under the jurisdiction of TransLink, the intent of the strategy is to support and guide TransLink's service planning initiatives, outlining the need for improving both local and regional connections. The development of the Final STP included consultation with Council, staff, external agencies and the public through a number of presentations, workshops and Open Houses. The intent of the STP, upon endorsement by Council is to provide long-term direction for the development and maturation of the City's transportation system. The STP outlines, for each mode of transportation, a list of priority projects for which conceptual cost estimates for each project or program have been developed to provide guidance on the level of investment for the overall STP. The level of investment required to implement all the stated improvements is considerable - in the range of $165M. As such a range of suggested strategies are included for consideration to guide implementation of the STP, some of which are location-specific projects while others would be annual programs with projects across the municipality. The next step is the completion of an Implementation Plan that would seek to prioritize the strategies included in the plan for incorporation into future Business Plans. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the "October 2014 Final Report - Strategic Transportation Plan" be endorsed; and THAT staff be directed to complete an Implementation Plan prioritizing the strategies identified within the Final Strategic Transportation Plan. DISCUSSION: a) Background Context: As one of the fastest growing municipalities within Metro Vancouver, the City of Maple Ridge faces considerable challenges in continuing to expand and improve a multi-modal transportation system that improves access throughout the City as well as regional destinations given that a significant number of residents work outside the City. An increase in population in excess of 35% over the next 20 years, along with the creation of additional employment opportunities, will burden the existing road network so it is necessary to work toward building and strengthening an interconnected and multi-modal system that will improve existing developed areas as well as servicing emerging growth areas. The goal is to provide a transportation system where residents and employees can use various modes - walk, cycle, automobile or transit - to get to their destinations. To address the challenge of providing that desired multi-modal transportation system, the City has updated the 2004 Draft STP, recognizing that the original document focused more on improving highway connections out of the City, specifically to the west and south including improvements on the Lougheed Highway approaching and across the Pitt River as well as a new tolled crossing over the Fraser River. Council input into the development of the plan has been provided at the following meetings: • May 14, 2012 • April 8, 2013 • February 17, 2014 • September 15, 2014 The 2014 STP is guided by four overarching goals: Access & Mobility - Provide for safe, convenient and accessible movement of people, goods and services throughout the City as well as to regional destinations, offering a variety of mobility choices and accommodating diverse needs. Transportation Choice - Provide attractive choices for moving around the City and connecting to regional destinations. Community & Environment - Provide infrastructure that enhances the quality of life for residents as well as preserving the natural environments. Affordable Transportation System - Provide infrastructure and services in a cost-effective and efficient manner. The main focus of the STP is to present a comprehensive review of the various transportation modes throughout the City in order to shape and support planned growth twenty years into the future, namely the Road Network, the Pedestrian Plan, the Bicycle Network Plan, and the Transit Strategy. Each element of the STP outlines the challenges and opportunities, and outlines a number of actions to achieve the stated goals of the STP. The components are: Road Network The Road Network Plan addresses a range of improvements to the overall road network, ranging from major corridor projects through to neighbourhood traffic management improvements. The Road Network Plan identifies six strategies: 1. Major Municipal Roads Long-term improvements to key corridors to improve network connectivity and accommodate increasing traffic growth. Examples include 128 Avenue, from 210 Street to 240 Street, and 232 Street from Abernethy Way to 132 Avenue. 2. Regional and Provincial Corridors The widening of Lougheed Highway and the Haney Bypass are important corridors for inter- regional traffic as well as for residents travelling across the City. 3. Completin� the Road Network This refers to connections to rural or emerging growth areas such as the Albion Industrial Area Connector. 4. Intersection Improvements There are a number of major intersections, largely on the Lougheed Highway that face operational and safety issues around which the City will continue to advocate with the Province. 5. Neighbourhood Traffic Management This is based upon the Traffic Calming Policy developed in 2012 with the goal of improving safety and preserve neighbourhood liveability. 6. Network Classification The existing network has been reviewed and amended as necessary to support the land uses stated in the Official Community Plan. Pedestrian Plan Within the Pedestrian Plan there are facilities and programs identified to enhance walking as a safe and convenient option for residents of all ages and abilities, based upon five strategies: 1. Enhanced Network Covera�e A large number of roadways in the City, especially in older areas lack sidewalks but where sidewalks would benefit many users as well as six pedestrian areas where priority should be given to provide sidewalks. 2. Interim Strategies for Growth Areas Growth areas such as Silver Valley or Albion, while having new developments provide fronting sidewalks often have portions of roadway where there are discontinuous or limited sidewalks and the Draft STP identifies approaches to provide temporary sidewalks as needed until full standard sidewalks may be constructed. 3. Enhanced Treatments in the Town Centre This focusses on streetscapes within the Town Centre to enhance walkability and create an attractive walking environment. 4. Safer Crossin�s This strategy seeks to improve pedestrian safety at major intersection crossings. 5. Support Programs Information, education and awareness initiatives complement the previous strategies with the goal of making pedestrians feel more safe and comfortable when walking on City streets. Bicycle Network Plan The intent of the Bicycle Network Plan is to encourage both casual and serious cyclists to utilize City bike facilities, a goal that is a primary driver for TransLink in achieving a shift in mode-share away from the single-occupancy vehicle. Three strategies are covered: 1. Comfortable Facilities This strategy identifies a range of cycling facilities for consideration under different conditions within the City, from bike lanes through to off-street facilities. 2. Crossin�s Providing treatments such as green painted bicycle boxes at intersections, pavement markings create a safer crossing environment for cyclists. 3. Support Strategies These are complimentary measures to increase awareness and educate riders. Transit Strategy TransLink controls the provision of transit facilities and routes in the City but the STP can provide direction to TransLink on City priorities through the following four strategies: 1. Enhanced Local and Regional Services TransLink has considerable funding limitations and faces a challenge in maintaining current levels of service while contemplating expanding services. The need for local connections to the Town Centre is recognized as is the necessity of providing at least a B-Line service to the planned Evergreen Line in Coquitlam. 2. Comfortable and Accessible Passenger Facilities Improvements to bus shelters and amenities increase the likelihood of residents using the transit system as they improve customer safety and comfort. 3. West Coast Express Expansion The West Coast Express is a tremendous service to regional destinations but should be expanded to include additional service in non-peak periods as well as evenings and weekends. The consideration of a station at Albion is considered a valuable asset tot pursue with TransLink. 4. Transit Prioritv Strategies Improvements along transit corridors and at intersections will enhance the level of service and allow the transit system to compete with driving. The development of the STP included consultation with Council, staff, external agencies and the public through a number of presentations, workshops and Open Houses. The intent of the STP, upon endorsement by Council, is to provide long-term direction for the development and maturation of the City's transportation system. The STP outlines, for each mode of transportation, a list of strategic projects for which conceptual cost estimates for each project or program have been developed to provide guidance on the level of investment for the overall STP. The level of investment required to implement all the stated improvements is considerable - in the range of $165M. As such a range of suggested strategies are included for consideration to guide implementation of the STP, some of which are location-specific projects while others would be annual programs with projects across the municipality. Following the endorse of the plan by Council then the next step will be the development of an Implementation Plan to prioritize the strategies and form the basis for future Business Plan considerations. b) Desired Outcome: The desired outcome is a long-range Transportation Plan that meets the needs of the City of Maple Ridge. c) Strategic Alignment: The City's Mission states the goal of a"Safe, livable and sustainable community for our present and future citizens". The development of a true multi-modal transportation system will assist in the realization of that stated Mission. Sections "5.5 - Air Quality" and "5.6 - Preparing for Climate Change" of the current Official Community Plan (OCP) contain policies pertaining to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). For example, Policy 5.40 (b) encourages alternate transportation initiatives, promoting "clean" transportation, and encouraging the use of public transit, and Policy 5-44 states that Maple Ridge has a goal to reduce community greenhouse gas emissions by 33% below 2007 levels by 2020 and 80% by 2050. The STP does not state specific targets or strategies but does support both City and provincial initiatives to reduce GHGs through the promotion of alternative modes of transportation other than the single-occupancy vehicle. d) Citizen/Customer Implications: A series of Open Houses were held to seek input from residents and stakeholder groups. A survey was utilized to gain feedback on transportation issues and priorities for residents. The goal of the STP is to support the development of a long range plan to implement a multi-modal transportation system but given the overall costs, there are challenges and implications of executing such a significant plan. e) Interdepartmentallmplications: There has been considerable consultation and discussion amongst the various City departments including Planning, Operations, Bylaws as well as Parks & Leisure Services. A series of internal stakeholder workshops were held to solicit feedback on proposed strategies in the STP. f) Business Plan/Financial Implications: When endorsed by Council the STP will provide long-term direction for the development and maturation of the City's transportation system and outlines, for each mode of transportation, a list of priority projects for which conceptual cost estimates for each project or program have been developed to provide guidance on the level of investment for the overall STP. The level of investment required to implement all the stated improvements is considerable - in the range of $165M. Some of the projects and initiatives such as the four-laning of 128 Avenue are included, at least in part within the current approved Financial Plan but a large proportion of the STP is not yet funded. As such a range of suggested strategies are included for consideration to guide implementation of the STP, some of which are location-specific projects while others would be annual programs with projects across the municipality. The next step is to complete an Implementation Plan that would seek to prioritize the strategies for incorporation into future Business Plans. g) Policy Implications: There are no specific policy implications in endorsing the STP. h) Alternatives: Not endorsing the STP would result in an un-coordinated approach to transportation planning within the City. CONCLUSIONS: The October 2014 Final Report - Strategic Transportation Plan provides an update to the 2004 document and maps out what infrastructure improvements are required to develop a truly multi- modal transportation system within the City to accommodate the continued growth in what is one of the fastest growing municipalities in the Lower Mainland. It presents a comprehensive review of the various transportation modes throughout the City in order to shape and support planned growth twenty years into the future, namely the Road Network, the Pedestrian Plan, the Bicycle Network Plan, and the Transit Strategy. Each element of the STP outlines the challenges and opportunities, and outlines a number of actions to achieve the stated goals of the STP. "Original signed by David Pollock" Prepared by: David Pollock, PEng. Municipal Engineer "Original signed by Christine Carter" for Approved by: Frank Quinn, MBA, PEng. General Manager: Public Works & Development Services "Original signed by J.L. (Jim) Rule" Concurrence: J.L. (Jim) Rule Chief Administrative Officer DP:mi .��� � �: ���;3: . _�. +`�.� �.�_. _ ,r.. �, T, a x� City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • �' 9 O O O O� �O �� /�,��,� �a,,. j�J��,j� -- ._ � ����; _ � ,���� _ ,, ;., � _ " ., ,� 1 �� _`� �� � �u � � i -. t i� � ' / �,k, � � ". E�= � � � � ,..a � l.: .. "�' �,�s '@ k y 6�� /// � � �. � �i/���.i� � � ..: ,�, , tix' � �...■���I�l _ �a � ' , � � �+' r , ;� �' � , �` ,� �� x � '� � : „ F ,'^ ,� � � '�- F 3 , � ,. ; � � � # - �,. _,, � . , , � ,_ _ �� I _ � �_ ���� ��� � � � �� � ��� � �l 1 �7 '���A, � � � -,� , � "� � �i Q � � "� � '� - � �� 1— � � � i � - ;,`�`�'/��,. ;: ►� . �r ����.��y�1 � • � � ' T� � /%� ��°�.� i�l,�+ ,v.:..:� � , ,� � , a� ` � s �lr�Y'�r, , : , y � �+ � ✓y.�A/���%!%� �i/�► ;, r!. � '1 �� : � � o.F ��� ,•: �Sr �J�`�,j ��,��lu��' r � f R w � rstir� . "t ai �. y�I,l�lll � .. . � � ;�� � ^e�Z`yfy� - � s I _-s , i i ' ' � �� -- '1� , 1- ` � :� � �, � � ,! `� "`� � �� �� � � _ ���� ` � ,���� � �� - � l � r - �+ . � �-�-'� `� � � ' y �� - --- systems MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa Contents City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan 1.0 Executive Summary ..............................................................................................................................1 1.1 Strategic Transportation Goals ..................................................................................................... 2 1.2 Directions of the Plan .................................................................................................................... 3 1.3 Implementation ............................................................................................................................. 9 2.0 Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................11 2.1 Purpose of the Plan .................................................................................................................... 14 2.2 Study Process ............................................................................................................................. 16 3.0 Directions ..................................................................................................................................................17 3.1 Municipal Directions .................................................................................................................... 18 3.2 Regional & Provincial Directions ................................................................................................. 19 3.3 Goals & Objectives — Directions for the Strategic Transportation Plan ...................................... 20 4.0 Road Network Plan ...................................................................................................................................23 4.1 Shaping Influences and Challenges on the Road Network ........................................................ 24 4.2 Long-term Road Network Plan ................................................................................................... 33 4.2.1 Major Municipal Roads .................................................................................................................34 4.2.2 Inter Municipal and Provincial Connections ..................................................................................44 4.2.3 Completing the Network ...............................................................................................................48 4.2.4 Intersection Operations & Safety ..................................................................................................51 4.2.5 Neighbourhood Traffic Management ............................................................................................52 4.2.6 Long-term Network Plan ...............................................................................................................54 4.3 Capital Costs & Priorities for Major Road Improvements ........................................................... 55 5.0 Pedestrian Plan .........................................................................................................................................59 5.1 Shaping Influences and Challenges ........................................................................................... 60 5.2 Long-Term Pedestrian Plan ........................................................................................................ 65 5.2.1 Enhanced Network Coverage & Accessibility ...............................................................................66 5.2.2 Interim Strategies for Growth Areas .............................................................................................70 5.2.3 Enhanced Treatments in the Town Centre ...................................................................................71 5.2.4 Safer Crossings ............................................................................................................................72 5.2.5 Support Programs .........................................................................................................................73 5.3 Capital Cost and Priorities .......................................................................................................... 73 6.0 Bicycle Network Plan ...............................................................................................................................75 6.1 Shaping Influences and Challenges for Cycling ......................................................................... 76 6.2 Long-Term Bicycle Plan .............................................................................................................. 78 6.2.1 Comfortable Facility Standards .....................................................................................................79 6.2.2 Network Plan .................................................................................................................................82 6.2.3 Crossings ......................................................................................................................................88 6.2.4 Support Strategies ........................................................................................................................89 6.3 Capital Costs & Priorities ............................................................................................................ 90 October 2014 Page i MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan 7.0 Transit Strategy .......................................................................................................... 7.1 Shaping Influences and Challenges for Transit ................................................. 7.2 Long-Term Transit Strategy ............................................................................... 7.2.1 Enhanced Network of Local and Regional Services ...................................... 7.2.2 Comfortable and Accessible Passenger Facilities ......................................... 7.2.3 Expanding West Coast Express Services (daytime & weekend) and Station 7.2.4 Transit Priority Strategies .............................................................................. Appendix A Detailed Sidewalk Network Priorities Appendix B Detailed Bicycle Network Priorities ..........................92 .................... 93 .................... 98 ..99 100 102 102 October 2014 Page ii Chapter 1 Executive� ��.� ..r r� y ' �� 3'r �^,, "� �•.-; .r!� _p' +'� �' '�� , ti - �.,.__. __.. � �,�,..�,'... �,:�� � ��� '�es.� � _ �r �.� -r e��o � ��% � � P� � ��► '�j����r� ����� � ���� ...� . _ � i/� �����a������ � � ��� ., � ����+►� '� ■ �� � ������ ��'�� ��`�,\ /�����. �►�`�� � ��� - ,,�s���r ����� � ��� '��r � ���s� � � o � �� - +�� � ►�� �i�.� � .+ � � � ��� r ►�� I �� � � � � ,� � � � � � � �� � � � ��� � ��_ �.Is''"� � � _ !� MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Maple Ridge is a dynamic and vibrant community of more than 80,000 residents, with a distinct agricultural and small-town character, along with a vibrant, well-developed urban core that continues to serve a growing local population. The city is known for its rural and natural landscapes, and the outdoor recreational opportunities afforded by lakes, mountains, and numerous regional and provincial parks that are very popular with both residents and visitors to the area. As one of the fastest growing municipalities in Metro Vancouver, Maple Ridge will need to continue to accommodate a diverse and growing population into the future. Between 1991 and 2011, the population of Maple Ridge increased by almost 60% to 76,000 residents. Over the next 20 years, the city's population is anticipated to grow to nearly 110,000 residents by the year 2031, with thousands of additional jobs also expected. The Town Centre and surrounding areas will likely accommodate most of this future population and employment growth in Maple Ridge; however emerging growth areas, such as Silver Valley, will also accommodate significant growth in the coming years. With this significant growth and development, providing a more interconnected and multi-modal transportation system where residents and employees can conveniently drive, walk, cycle, or take transit to their destinations is becoming increasingly important. To address the challenges and opportunities facing the transportation system now and into the future, the City of Maple Ridge has developed an updated Strategic Transportation Plan (STP). The development of the STP update involved a detailed review of the existing transportation system in Maple Ridge, along with consultation and engagement with City staff and community members to identify key transportation issues affecting the community. Through this process, a framework was established for the STP to define how Maple Ridge will address its future transportation needs. This framework provides guidance to City staff and Council on transportation-related decisions and investments over the next 20 years. The framework is based on four strategic goals which define the vision for transportation in Maple Ridge. These goals align with the overarching directions contained in the city's Official Community Plan (OCP) and other policy documents, and will guide the city's policies and directions on how to best manage the transportation system into the future. Together, these goals, and their supporting objectives, contribute to creating an efficient, affordable, safe, economically robust, and sustainable transportation system. 1.: rran� - The goals and objectives for the STP are designed to provide the foundation for planning the city's transportation system based on historical work with the residents of the city. The overall goals are briefly summarized below. Access & Mobility Provide for safe, convenient and accessible movement of peop/e, goods and services throughout the city. To provide a variety of mobility choices and accommodating diverse needs, the city seeks a transportation network with strong multi-modal connections, supported by an efficient and safe road network. Transportation Choice Provide residents and visitors with attractive choices for moving around the city and connecting with other areas of Metro Vancouver. This includes the provision of an integrated network, supporting connections locally and regionally, with more opportunities for transit, cycling and walking. October 2014 Page 2 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa Community & Environment Provide transportation infrastructure and services that enhance quality of life in Maple Ridge and the quality of the natural environments in the city. This includes integrating land use and transportation systems, preserving natural areas, and minimizing impacts through supporting alternative travel modes. City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Affordable Transportation System Provide transportation infrastructure and services in a cost-effective and efficient manner that makes best use of existing facilities and projected resources. This will include maximizing opportunities to make beneficial investments, improving existing infrastructure, and prioritizing transit. Building on the four goals described above, the STP presents a comprehensive review of all aspects of the transportation system in Maple Ridge, in order to shape and support planned growth 20 years into the future. Although the goals of the Plan and the investment strategies are integrated, the STP document is presented for each mode of transportation: a Road Network Plan; Pedestrian Plan; Bicycle Network Plan; and a Transit Strategy - each addressing a distinct part of the city's transportation system. Each of the modal plans is supported by several themes, which describe how the City and other agencies and stakeholders can take action to achieve the STP goals. The four core topics of the STP, as well as their strategies are briefly summarized below: 1. The Road Network Plan is designed to address a combination of major and minor road improvements. The Road Network Plan identifies the City's long-term approach to improvements ranging from major corridor projects, such as widening and new roadways, to local area initiatives including neighbourhood traffic management and minor intersection improvements. The six key strategies that shape the Road Network Plan are: a) Major Municipal Roads outlines long-term improvements to key corridors to increase road network connectivity and accommodate increasing traffic growth pressures. Major municipal road projects contained in this strategy are: • 128 St/Abernethy Way: Widening from two to four lanes and extension of the 128 Avenue/Abernethy corridor between 210 Street and 240 Street. • 232 Street: Widening to 4 lanes from Abernethy Way/124 Avenue to 132 Avenue (east). There are two proposed concepts set out as part of this strategy, with different laning configuration options. • Fern Crescent Realignment / 128t'' Avenue Extension: Realign Fern Crescent and extend 128�h Avenue as two lane roadways with pedestrian and cycling facilities, and reclassify Fern Crescent south of 128th Avenue to a local road. • East Dewdney Trunk Road: Widening to four lanes between 240 Street to 248 Street. • 240 Street: A proposed crossing of 240 Street over the Alouette River is identified as the secondary north-south alternative between Abernethy Way and Fern Crescent. October 2014 Page 3 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan b) Regional and Provincial Corridors focusses on improvement opportunities for Lougheed Highway and Haney Bypass, as well as opportunities for connections with Pitt Meadows via the North Lougheed Connector. These improvements are: a. Haney Bypass: Widening to 4 lanes. b. Lougheed Highway: Widening east of 272 Street. c. Support further review of the east-west North Lougheed Connector in Pitt Meadows, and explore optional connections to Abernethy Way. d. Lougheed Highway Priority lanes across Northeast Sector. c) Completing the Network focusses on providing long-term access to rural and emerging growth areas of the city, through road connectors. In particular, these improvements are: a. 112 Avenue - 108 Street Connector would consist of a new roadway between 252 Street and 268 Street along the slope of Grant's Hill. The road would provide a complete east-west route between Lougheed Highway at the Haney Bypass (via Kanaka Way) and 272 Street. b. Thornhill Connector which would connect between the Thornhill area and Lougheed Highway. One option is to extend Jackson Road southward over the escarpment to Lougheed, whereas another option would be to extend 256 Street southward to the highway. c. Albion Industrial Area Connector. In an effort to support industrial activity and future growth in Albion, the City will examine alternative access strategies between Lougheed Highway and River Road on the south side of the CP Rail corridor. d) Intersection Improvements focuses on locations where further review is needed to address operational and safety issues. The majority of intersections identified in this strategy are located on Lougheed Highway (provincial jurisdiction), and the City will continue to advocate with the Province on planning shorter-term improvement strategies to reduce delays and improve safety at these locations. Types of improvements may include the provision of turn lanes and/or signal optimization. e) Neighbourhood traffic management speaks to the City's policy (developed in 2012) on maintaining quality of life and safety on local and collector streets through various traffic calming measures and treatments. f) Network Classification captures the projected role and function of roadways within Maple Ridge. The roadway classification system generally provides guidance to planning land uses along the corridor as well as the physical design characteristics based on the intended functions for each class as briefly highlighted below. The long-term road network classification recommended in this strategy is shown in Map E-1. October 2014 Page 4 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map E-1: Long-Term Road Network Classification � Ciiy of � ��ct �eaao�.°.��� __4 I �---� 1321Ave 132 Ave � 128 Ave � ' 124 Ave Ia 123 Ave 0 122 0.�e � � ° �i ! Laugheed uwy !f yr•� ! µ'i�er Ra 1 1 I District of Maple Ridge '^ 124 Ave y Trunk ftd Dewdne a � N ll2 Ave 112 Ave � o�,ao��,., I I I Trunk Rd I 104 Ave Major Road Network # Signalized Intersection ioz a.�e 100 Ave - Highway 0 Pedestrian Signal - Arterial Road - NEajor Collector Future Roads ���ehPea Nwy Collecror Road Collector F� �7sNr jZ i Z�e �• Local Road ••••• Arterial 2. The Pedestrian Plan identifies facilities and programs needed to make walking within the city a more attractive, safe and convenient option for people of all ages and mobility levels. The Pedestrian Plan seeks to enhance infrastructure and connections in the areas of highest pedestrian activity within Maple Ridge, and to ensure pedestrians connections to future areas of growth. The Pedestrian Plan has five key strategic areas, which are: a) Enhanced Network Coverage seeks more sidewalk coverage to provide more attractive walking conditions, particularly in the urban areas of Maple Ridge. The ultimate goal is to provide sidewalks on both sides of collector and arterial roads in the urban area, as well as on at least one side of local roads. This strategy identifies six pedestrian areas (see Map E-2) where sidewalk improvements can benefit many users, and where the City should prioritize increasing sidewalk coverage. In addition to these six pedestrian areas, bus routes (within the urban area) are also identified as a priority for sidewalk provision, to enable passengers to safely access transit. Within the six pedestrian areas of the city as well as nearby transit stops and exchanges, pedestrian facilities should be designed for people of all ages and mobility levels through universal design standards. October 2014 Page 5 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map E-2: Pedestrian Areas of Maple Ridge I � � _ � 132IAue r- � UVestgateSho�ap�rrg Cerrtre � & INestr�dge,Centre � � } .� �° 3z� a� �� iz� e� J � m � :1Z2 � �� � o , � � 1 � ti - �r �''��-�' �� �T� Lougl�eed FEwy � � � � � f � �: � . .�_ � _ � � _. � �I o R��� \ � N { 1 132 Ave � �. � Maple Ridge � `" Towrr Cerrtre _ � 4ve ,� � � u_ � ���� ❑P�.rrine�r.. Tr�inlr Rra {s ���' A �fi�rf'7p8 � � � �.. � �-.�� � � ` Haney Cerrtre ���t�'��/ ¢ ! N � � , 1 Ric�91e � r INleadaws �� N�sp�taf N1a�Ie Meaafows Part Ffax�eyStatian Sta#ion � � �- � 3"� �'- � �'<� 'f �' r 112 Ave , �;'^� : �'� lo� Ave► b) Interim Strategies for Growth Areas focusses on improving walkability in future growth areas of Silver Valley, Albion, and Thornhill, in order to attract more residents to walk in these areas. This strategy provides approaches to improve pedestrian facilities in these three areas, including providing sidewalks as growth occurs, constructing temporary sidewalks where needed, and striving towards a full sidewalk standard in the long-term. c) Enhanced Town Centre treatments is a strategy that focusses on enhancing walkability in the core of Maple Ridge, building off successful streetscape initiatives such as those on 224 Street. This includes providing pedestrian realm enhancements such as boulevards, street furniture, wayfinding, and street lighting to make an attractive walking environment in the Town Centre. Particular corridors that are identified within this strategy include Lougheed Highway, Dewdney Trunk Road, 222 Street, 223 Street, 226 Street, 119 Avenue, Edge Street, and Selkirk Avenue. d) Safer Crossings is a strategy that seeks to enhance pedestrian safety, accessibility, and visibility at crossings within the Town Centre, West Coast Express station areas, employment centres, and around schools and parks. The range of crossing treatments identified includes curb extensions, crosswalk treatments, accessible signals, countdown timers, and curb ramps. e) Support Programs complement the infrastructure-based strategies, through encouraging softer measures such as information, education and awareness initiatives to enable people to feel more safe and comfortable using active modes to get around. October 2014 Page 6 * •F � City of Maple Ridge f Strategic Transportation Plan 3. The Bicycle Network Plan recommends changes to the local bicycle network in order to meet the needs of Maple Ridge's cyclists. Attracting more people to � bicycle in and around Maple Ridge necessitates infrastructure and safety � measures, including bicycle routes and lanes, bicycle parking, crossing improvements, and supportive programming. The main strategies in the Bicycle Network Plan that will guide the development of the bicycle network over the next 20 years are summarized below: a) Comfortable Facilities. Recognizing that attracting more people to cycle in Maple Ridge will require bicycle facilities that are both safe and comfortable, this strategy identifies a range of different bicycle facilities that can be considered under different conditions in Maple Ridge. The proposed bicycle network is shown in Map E-3, with proposed bicycle routes in the following locations: • Off-Street Pathways are recommended to address network gaps and to provide more comfortable east-west routes in Maple Ridge. Pathways are identified adjacent to 132 Avenue (216 Street to 232 Street), Lougheed Highway (west of Laity), and 128th Avenue / Abernethy Way (interim). Consideration for enhancing the existing 128 Avenue / 210 Street Dyke Trail is also recommended. • Neighbourhood Bikeways are low cost and low-stress routes designed to connect the city's residential neighbourhoods, and are recommended on: 206/207 Streets, Skillen Street / Wicklund Avenue, Foreman Drive, 105 Avenue / Tamarack Lane, 236 Street / Creekside Street, 227 Street. Within the Town Centre, bikeways are recommended on 116 Avenue, 224 Street, 227 Street, and Selkirk Avenue. • Bicycle Lanes (painted) provide a higher degree of separation between cyclists and motorists, and providing direct on-street links. The recommended routes for bicycle lanes in Maple Ridge include 124 avenue, 207 Street, 232 Street, and Kanaka Way. • Shoulder Bikeways are also proposed for several rural roads within Maple Ridge, including 256 Street, 272 Street, 280 Street, 100 Avenue, and 112 Avenue. October 2014 Page 7 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map E-3: Recommended Long-Term Bicycle Network � City of Distr��� ci `� APitt Meadorn,; —�� M� ��', ,_ - � � � � �,es� j �' w ��.w _ � ��� i oE � _� , n � � F ��gneeo N . y � � � � f __ � 1321Ave � 132 Ave �% ' 9' ��... .. ....____.._"".""""'" ""• � � ..� . � . �, . �� . • . . � � � . � � """"_� � , � 128 Ave � -� ,'�^ --� J �"` "_" ' _, , . . 01 - 9 rv 124 .Sve Tawn Centre Inset���-�,`��: ., m � r, �� a � rv • � � I � �'� i � � a� 0 � �"" �� 0 `"' � �lN � � f3 ��'e �ewdrtey Trunk Rd �ewdney Trunk Rd r� ., $ . _ '"""'""""""""""' ' """""" -` �;. -- -� ___ �a�,gr �d uv-y_Town Centre� o � I� d —+--- � ,�� � lnset� ^ � p Rwee gd `�t 0� v I �1 � 112 Ave.-:'•_ _''"-"'" i 112 Av �� I _ ., . _ , - . � � " " " , .. �, , • •" "'i"""'"• �" ' ' � ' �',--�r�---- -+----- " � ------------ I Bicycle Facilities � ' I Exisfing Proposed ; 1oa Ave . I . , , �� � . ' • d ' iao ave ' �' Bike Lane - - - - � ' � �' ' `------------' -----__�'_'_'-- ' - ' '---- " Neighbourhaod Bfkeway � I Key Commercial Area ti � Paved Shoulder �` 1 � 5 0 Elementar School ,`��'"'"--1o•�h=ea Nw � � Separated Path - - - - Y y " "�•------ 'c["' "'•, '.-"""'_"'-' � TBD"' --- 0 Setondar 5[hool x' 4 I" � s�r Riz�er °�Aend'mgresvllsofthzCorrldorManagement5tratP.gy. PdYk b) Crossings are important to ensuring cyclist safety and comfort, particularly when crossing major streets. This strategy recommends crossing treatments such as the use of bicycle boxes, enhanced pavement markings, and bicycle loop detectors to create safer crossings for cyclists. c) Support Strategies are important complementary measure to spread awareness about the bicycle network and educate residents on cycling skills and road safety. Some key recommended initiatives include establishing more bicycle parking, wayfinding and events and awareness activities that promote active transportation. 4. The Transit Strategy within the STP provides broad direction on provision of transit services within the city to support and guide TransLink's service planning initiatives. The Strategy outlines the need for more local and regional transit connections, improved passenger amenities at transit stops, and transit priority treatments along congested areas of the network. In particular, the four transit strategies set out in the � STP include: a) Enhanced Network of Local and Regional Services focusses on better local transit connections to the Town Centre, the Haney-Hammond Area and to emerging areas of growth including Silver Valley. Regionally, emphasis is placed on transit connections between Maple Ridge's Town Centre, Coquitlam City Centre, and the planned Evergreen Line. October 2014 Page 8 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan b) Comfortable and Accessible Passenger Facilities seeks the provision of amenities and accessibility features at bus stops and transit exchanges to improve passenger safety and comfort (and attract new customers). Short-term improvements include sidewalk improvements or construction of concrete pads for wheelchairs at bus stops. Longer-term initiatives include achieving 100% accessible bus stops, and provision of more seating, lighting and customer information at all bus stops, rapid transit stations, and transit exchanges. c) Expanding West Coast Express Service focusses on supporting TransLink to provide an Albion Station in addition to expanding West Coast Express services to include reverse peak, midday and weekend service. These service expansions can serve to increase travel choices to and from the city. d) Transit Priority Strategies along corridors and at intersections can enhance the customer experience, reduce bus travel times, improve reliability, and ultimately make transit competitive with driving. In particular, strategies such as queue bypass lanes or queue jumpers may be an effective form of transit priority along some of Maple Ridge's more heavily congested intersections. 1.3 IYY1YlIPY�'1eY1t�tIOI� The STP is intended to provide long-term direction for the city's transportation system. To achieve the goals of the STP, an implementation strategy is necessary to provide a framework for advancing specific transportation improvements. The recommended improvements of the STP considers projects over the short- term (0-5 years), medium-term (5-10 years), and long-term (10 or more years). Conceptual order-of-magnitude cost estimates were developed for each of the capital investments identified in the STP to provide guidance on the overall transportation investments in current dollars. These order-of- magnitude costs are for comparative purposes only, and are based on a conceptual level of design and should be refined to establish funding requirements and project budgets. Actual costs for implementation could vary significantly for each initiative as costs change over time and are typically not used for project budgeting purposes. The level of investment required to implement all improvements recommended in the STP is estimated to be in the range of $165 million (approximately $5 million per year for the first 10 years), as summarized below in Table E-1. It should be noted that these cost estimates do not include items such as environmental mitigation costs, and utility relocations which can be significant in most projects. Costs to the city can be significantly reduced by pursuing external funding sources and partnership opportunities for many of the identified projects and by leveraging other funding sources within the City. Additionally, the City should consider strategies to coordinate capital investments between modes as well as with other infrastructure rehabilitation projects. October 2014 Page 9 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Table E-1: Projected Capital Costs and Implementation Phasing (2014 $) Road Network Plan $26.2 million $17.0 million $106.9 million $150.1 million Pedestrian Plan $1.5 million $1.8 million $2.1 million $5.4 million Bicycle Network Plan $1.0 million $3.2 million $4.6 million $8.8 million Transit Strategy $0.25 million $0.25 million $0.5 million $1.0 million Total $28.95 million $22.25million $114.1 million $165.3 million Note: Costs are concepfual in nature (Class D) and are not typically used for budgeting purposes. They do not include any allowance for significant utility re/ocation, earthworks, driveway reconstruction, landscape restoration and legal cost. October 2014 Page 10 .�� .�k'r �.]�a.':�!��.��" .... 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MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Maple Ridge is a dynamic and vibrant community of approximately 83,000 residents (source: City of Maple Ridge), with a distinct agricultural and small-town character, though a modern well-developed urban core that continues to serve a growing local population. The city is known for its rural and natural landscapes, and the outdoor recreational opportunities afforded by lakes, mountains, and numerous regional and provincial parks that are very popular with both residents and visitors to the area. Located on the northeastern corner of Metro Vancouver, the city faces a number of unique transportation issues due to the fact that it is bounded by the Fraser River to the south and mountains to the north. Lougheed Highway is the primary route connecting the city to Pitt Meadows and other the municipalities to the east and west. The widening of Lougheed Highway over the Pitt River Bridge in 2009, has also improved east-west connections between Maple Ridge and the Rock northeast sector municipalities. Constructed in 2009, the Golden RegionalConiezt Ears Bridge replaced the Albion � Railway Existinq SkyTrain Provincial Hi9hway A � zm West Coast Express ---- Future SkyTrain Regional Hignway Ferry, and opened up a critical �E°me�efS north-south connection between Maple Ridge and the Township and City of Langley, Surrey and other communities south of the Fraser River. The Golden Ears Bridge has changed travel patterns in the municipalities it connects, but it has also brought increased economic and growth opportunities. Despite these external transportation investments, rapid population growth in recent years is placing increasing pressure on the city's transportation system. Since 1991, the city's population has Historical & Forecast Population for Maple Ridge increased by almost 60% - from 48,400 in 1991 to 76,000 people in 2011. Over the past 10 1zo,000 io9,000 years, employment growth within the city has 96,000 increased by approximately 5,000 jobs. Looking 100,000 76,050 ahead, the city continues to be a high growth o$o,000 63,i�o 6s,9so area in Metro Vancouver. Over the next 20 3 60,000 48 400 se,s�o years, the city's population is projected to a ao,000 � increase by over 30,000 people to 109,000 �' 20,000 residents by 2031. At the same time, employment within the city is expected to � 1991 1996 2001 2006 2011 2021 2031 increase to approximately 48,000 jobs. Year October 2014 Page 12 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Within the city, this planned growth will continue to preserve the agricultural land base, protect the city's natural features and maintain the community character. Growth will be shaped by goals and principles being used to update the Official Community Plan that include: • Create a compact urban area; • Support a sustainable economy; • Protect the environment and respond to climate change impacts; • Develop complete communities; • Support sustainable transportation choices In particular, the Town Centre and surrounding areas will accommodate the majority of the population and employment growth in the city. Growth within this area is designed to be supported by an attractive and frequent transit service to connect to other areas of the city as well as communities north and south of the Fraser River. The Silver Valley area is also planned to accommodate significant growth over the next 20 years. Distribution of Population 8� Employment Growth �.. i a, ., , .�R � � . _ � �r 1321Ave � � a 12fl Av2 � �u� � 1008 I 1031 � Papulntron 2391fi � 32743 � Empfoyment 3848 7554 Lougheed Hwy n � R�eY R� 0 a�0 �� M zaos zaaz Popufatean 15053 21384 Empfoyment 9752 15619 2008 2031 PapWafian 7032 1617� fmployment 404fi 8544 nu Nv� s C1P. et� F � 132 Av❑ rv 1008 203I Populatron 7841 13267 N Employment 1941 2812 rv Dewdney lnank Hd � a a 112 Ave 124 Avc � �IStI"ICt �J� ,i�9fP ��r : - �ewdney Trunk Rd 112 Ave ,n v 2008 i031 N Papultrtion 6418 12452 Employment 2236 3714 104 Avc '^ � ��, i02 Ave .., „� � � 100 Avc 0 O n m N Ln�`�hPPd HWY 2W8 1031 Aopulofion 13845 Z326i j��faS('Y Employment 2166 2861 « r Z(' Y Data Source: Regional Travel Model ro rv � � � ti October 2014 Page 13 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa 2.1 Purpose of the Plan City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan The Strategic Transportation Plan (STP) presents a comprehensive review of all aspects of the transportation system in Maple Ridge in an effort to shape and support planned growth over the next 20 years. In this regard, the Plan provides a clear vision of the multi-modal transportation system to serve local and inter- municipal travel for residents and businesses of the city in the long-term. The Plan also provides a strategy in which to get there over the next two decades. The STP is separated into distinct parts for each mode of transportation as follows: • Road Network Plan identifies the City's long-term network strategy and improvements based on a comprehensive evaluation of long-term options and input received from stakeholders. These improvements range from new roadway corridors through to minor intersection improvements to address localized operational issues. • Bicycle Plan includes a review of existing and proposed bicycle routes and identifies potential changes to the long-term cycling network to meet the needs of the city's cyclists. • Pedestrian Plan identifies facilities and programs needed to make walking within the city an important component of the transportation system. The Plan is designed to augment the existing sidewalk system by defining key pedestrian areas of the city where sidewalks are needed and the general level of treatments needed to make walking attractive and comfortable in the highest activity areas. • Transit Strategy provides broad direction on long-term services within the city to support and guide TransLink's service planning initiatives. In addition to outlining the overall structure of services that will be desirable to support compact urban growth within the core areas of the city, the Strategy outlines support facilities needed to enhance the customer experience at transit stops an through transit priority treatments along congested areas of the network. Within each strategic area of the Strategic Transportation Plan, there are specific themes that are presented to support the goals and objectives of the Plan as illustrated on the following page in Figure 1. October 2014 Page 14 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa Major Municipal Roads Intermunicipal and Provincial Connections Completing the Network Intersection Operations & Safety Neighbourhood Traffic ManaEement Long-Term Network and Classification Enhanced Network Coverage Interim Strategies for Growth Areas Enhanced Town Centre Treatments Safer Crossings Support Programs Comfortable Facility Standards Complete Connections Crossings Support Strategies Enhanced Network of Local & Regional Services Comfortable & Accessible Passenger Facilities MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa 2.2 Study Process City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan The development of the Strategic Transportation Plan has involved an in-depth review of the existing transportation system in Maple Ridge, and consultation with City staff and community members to identify key issues affecting the city. These issues have been used to direct the identification and evaluation of various improvement strategies for all modes of travel, which have been refined through further consultation to develop the long-term plan. Further, the Strategic Transportation Plan contains an implementation and phasing strategy to identify priorities and a timeline for completion of the improvement strategies, taking into consideration the financial resources available to the City. Key consultation activities included: � � s�:�.��� �„.�,. �,� �, • Public `open houses'. The first open house was held at �f �'�"'�%��' _`� . � the Haney's Farmers Market on Saturday, September 8t'' r' ��-Y ?2' E:. �'��� ,�� .; 2012, where a booth was set up, allowing residents to .�� , � � � � �"F _ � � �:� � � � � - ,� :, directly engage with consultants and view panel boards on r 4#'�` x,{"� � � � - ,�� ,, : ,� the transportation system. The purpose of hosting the ��":� .�; ',�•'� . �-�• ,...,�_- �. � ■ � . booth was to gather input on key transportation issues �� �-� ` � � _._ facing the community from residents, and to solicit ideas � .• - j � on potential improvements. Dozens of people circulated ____ _. _-J--- -- =�.--. through the booth, and surveys were also available at the ` booth to provide community members an additional opportunity to provide feedback. A second open house was held on May 22, 2013 at the Municipal Hall, with boards and panels presenting the key features of the Draft Strategic Transportation Plan. In addition to meetings with the broader community, extensive input and guidance was provided by the Bicycle Advisory Committee from the outset of the process. A meeting was also held with the Bicycle Advisory Committee in May 2013. • Survey. An online survey was available through the city's website from September to October 2012, in order to gather feedback on existing transportation issues and priorities from Maple Ridge residents. A total of 100 survey responses were received, and over 92% were from residents or business owners in Maple Ridge. • Staff Workshops. Two interactive workshops were held with City staff, representing several municipal departments. The first workshop was held on September 25, 2012 and focussed on walking and cycling. The second workshop was held on October 3, 2012 and focussed on transit and the road network. The purpose of the workshops was to review the 2004 Transportation Plan findings, and then to explore ideas and opportunities with staff for the Strategic Transportation Plan update, as well as key improvement and transportation priorities for the future. October 2014 Page 16 ., � . � Chapter 3 Directions .,,.�.. _„� _ k, � � ' 4.� ' f. ' i .� �� e� � • e'�'� 4 � _ ��� � Y���� ��� MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan The City has made significant advancements and commitments to livability and sustainability policies and practices through a variety of initiatives in recent years. There are a number of overarching local, regional and provincial plans and policies that have shaped the overall direction of the Strategic Transportation Plan as well as specific initiatives at the neighbourhood level that have influenced the plan, as described below. The City's Official Community Plan (2006), provides an overarching vision for growth and development and speaks to the city's transportation priorities, with an emphasis on with more active and sustainable transportation options for local trips. The OCP policies emphasize an � integrated and multi-modal transportation network, supported by active transportation corridors, better transit, and strong regional road connections. The Corporate Strategic Plan (2007) i"s��fl .'t, � i-: / � CDµPON+TES'C W°'2EGlCP�PN ne , v� � �.,, � � � , f. � µ�Kniu� includes transportation as a strategic focus area, and with a 2025 vision supported by � multi-modal accommodation, alternative travel ` ' Y,,�e„�,�mr�„ ..,. ,, ' , y ;, is,r_rJ; -- �- 1�§��F�:��I�r;l I � ' . � � GC '�:,� -. a7.1_` �tr , Ir�Ple �n .t. � �h� �zrst�l�t�hll1`J' Pr; �c � ' Y - options, transit-oriented development, � improved road and rail movements, and a walkable downtown. Following up on this corporate initiative, the City's Sustainability Action Plan (2007) builds on the transportation vision for 2025 and identified next steps in increasing transportation choices, including the initiative to create an Active Transportation Plan and a community-wide Smart Commute Program. In general, since the adoption of many of these documents, several major projects have been completed that impact the transportation network in and around the city. These major projects include the Golden Ears Bridge, the new Pitt River Bridge, and the Port Mann / Highway 1 improvements and South Fraser Perimeter Road project. The City surveys citizens every three years to gain input on municipal services, with the most recent being the 2012 Citizen Survey. The City has been able to identify key themes on transportation from resident's feedback, which also provides direction into the Strategic Transportation Plan process. In particular, residents indicated that public transit improvements between Maple Ridge and other areas of Metro Vancouver were identified by almost 70% of residents as a high priority when planning for the future. There have been several initiatives at the neighbourhood level on transportation and road safety. This includes the Neighbourhood Traffic Calming Program which focuses on the use of traffic management measures to slow, reduce and/or re-route traffic on local neighbourhood streets. The Neighbourhood Traffic Safety Campaign is a resident-run program aimed to inform motorists to slow down and bring education around local street safety. Likewise, the Speed Watch Program involves the use of portable radar equipment and electronic signs to remind drivers of their speed and to bring awareness of traffic safety. The Safer City October 2014 Page 18 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Program, which is a partnership between the City, RCMP, School District No. 42, ICBC, and residents to incorporate road safety into city initiatives, making road safety a priority in the community. The program focuses on achieving safer roads for all road users including motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. The City also administers the Safer School Travel Program to assist parents in developing safer school travel plans for schools, identifying traffic issues and developing a range of tools to reduce problems around school areas. In addition to key municipal plans and policies, the Strategic Transportation Plan is also influenced by several other provincial and regional planning initiatives, including: Provincial Government's Climate Action Charter (2007) was developed with the Union of BC Municipalities, with almost all BC municipalities pledging to be carbon neutral by 2012, committing to measuring and reporting on their community GHG emissions profile, and working to create compact, more energy efficient communities. The subsequent Climate Action Plan (2008) sets targets for the province to reduce its GHG emissions by 33°/o from 2007 levels by 2020, and by 50°/o by 2050. As on-road transportation is the largest contributor of community GHG emissions in Maple Ridge, the Strategic Transportation Plan update can play a key role in helping to achieve significant GHG reductions. The Provincial Transit Plan (2008) seeks increased transit ridership by increased travel choices, with new fleets, green technology, new rapid transit lines, and new innovative services. The Evergreen Rapid Transit Line is part of this Plan, which would enhance regional connections for Coquitlam and adjacent municipalities such as Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, and Maple Ridge. Lastly, the 2003 Gateway Program was established by the Province to address regional congestion, and to improve the movement of people, goods and transit throughout Metro Vancouver. . Reg:o�, ,,, ,, Relevant projects within the program that broadly ��ptrd VahCp , � uvar S�r;�,;' ��40 i m p a c t t h e M a p l e R i d g e t r a n s p o r t a t i o n n e t w o r k '� O„�FUr4re include the Pitt River Bridge & Mary Hill �;` n,.,� f � Interchange, the South Fraser Perimeter Road, and � s ��`4�� �": ;,. : • -. the Port Mann/Highway 1 Improvement Project. �. ��' .z � Metro Vancouver's 2011 Regional Growth Strategy _ (RGS), provides a framework on how to accommodate RE�,oNA� TRANSPORT,4TIOFJ an additional one million people and 600,000 new jobs STRATE�Y >., �9,�F,�,_,_��. expected in Metro Vancouver over the next 30 years. The framework of the ' �'�`F��i RGS is focussed on the five key goals to create a compact urban area, ��i� support a sustainable economy, protect the environment and respond to ���'`� .�I� =� Si dimate change; develop complete communities; and support sustainable ��� transportation choices. The RGS focuses on land use policies to guide the `�,� = J. future development of the region and to support transportation networks. The �� transportation-related directions of the RGS focus on coordinating land use ... .. and transportation to support sustainable modes, and the safe and efficient movement of vehicles for people, goods and services. Identified as a regional city centre, the role of Maple Ridge is as a regional transportation hub within TransLink's Frequent Transit Network strategy. Transit October 2014 Page 19 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan priority measures include enhanced serve between the centres of Maple Ridge and Langley, and additional transit-supportive infrastructure. For all Metro Vancouver member municipalities, including Maple Ridge, the strategies and actions of the RGS require land use planning and collaborative action to ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and vehicles throughout the region. TransLink has a long-range transportation strategy, Transport 2040, for the Region, which provides a framework to accommodate growth. Transport 2040 lays out the challenges facing Metro Vancouver over the next 30 years and contains a set of goals for the future, including that the majority of trips (>50%) are by transit, walking, and cycling. These goals and other supportive land use and transportation goals can only be met through collaboration with municipalities throughout the region. TransLink recently updated Transport 2040 with the Regional Transportation Strategy (RTS). Further, TransLink's Regional Cycling Strategy (2011) provides guidance on how cycling can contribute to realizing the goals of Transport 2040. The Strategy focuses on the functionality of the cycling network, bicycle parking, end-of-trip facilities, education initiatives, encouragement strategies, enforcement and legislative approaches. Ultimately, the Regional Cycling Strategy provides a unified regional framework from which all partners and Metro Vancouver members can draw relevant strategies and actions for incorporation into their own transportation plans and programs. 3._ -uj „ he S o,., _ „_u�,� n The goals and objectives for the Strategic Transportation Plan are designed to provide the foundation for planning the city's transportation system. Goals are broad statements of general direction, whereas objectives are more precise statements of how a goal is to be achieved. Generally, goals may be considered as longer term and objectives as shorter term. The four goals for the plan highlighted below outline the broadest aspirations for the transportation system and are supported by more specific expectations and intentions in the form of objectives. October 2014 Page 20 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Figure 2: Transportation Plan Goals and Objectives 1.1 Move People, Goods Evaluate the performance of the transportation system in terms of & Services people movement and goods movement, not just vehicles. 1.2 Promote Accessibility Ensure that the transportation system is accessible to individuals of all ages and physical abilities. 1.3 Develop multi-modal Develop networks of streets, trails and pathways suited to each networks mode of travel and for people of all abilities. 1.4 Enhance Safety Continue to address long-term safety of the city's roadway network. 1.5 Support Regional Support development of efficient connections between Maple Ridge, Connections key gateways and other regional nodes — such as the Pitt Meadows Airport — to enhance regional mobility. 1.6 Develop Efficient Maximize efficiencies of the existing roadway network where Roadways possible and plan for new corridors to serve growing areas of the city. 1.7 Maintain Emergency Maintain and improve access for emergency vehicles to all Access neighbourhoods. 2.1 Integrate Travel Plan for the integration and balance for all modes on most urban Modes streets within the city. 2.2 Promote Regional and Ensure that the long-term transit system provides attractive options Local Transit to connect Northeast Sector communities and those South of the Connections Fraser, in addition to meeting needs for local travel. 2.3 Promote Cycling Expand the network of cycling routes within the city and connections to nearby municipalities. 2.4 Enhance Walking Provide attractive pedestrian facilities in key pedestrian areas and provide for safe facilities along corridors for growing areas. 2.5 Explore Mobility River Maintain long-term potential for moving people and goods on the Choices Fraser River. October 2014 Page 21 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Figure 2(Cont'd): Transportation Plan Goals and Objectives 3.1 Maintain the Road Confirm the long-term classification of roadways that will support the Network Hierarchy movement of inter-municipal travel, trips between communities within the city and local serving roads that will discourage non-local travel. 3.2 Coordinate with Growth Plans 3.3 Preserve Natural Areas Ensure that the transportation system serves and supports growth plans within the city and work with the Ministry and TransLink to support regional travel demands. Minimize impacts on and even enhance natural environments within the city. 3.4 Minimize Emissions Develop a transportation system that minimizes impacts on the air quality within the city by supporting walking, cycling and transit. 3.6 Support Healthy Promote walking and cycling where possible to enhance overall Lifestyles quality of urban areas within the city and support healthy living. 4.1 Minimize Identify cost-effective investments in transportation where the Infrastructure benefits will support the costs. 4.2 Maximize Efficiency Maximize opportunities to improve existing infrastructure before investing in new facilities and to coordinate rehabilitation with new capital projects. 4.3 Prioritize Transit Prioritize investments in transit services and facilities that will enhance the overall experience for customers. October 2014 Page 22 � � �, � � �'r 1 � Chapter 4 � Road Network Plan � � ; ��� �� , -�- � �, � i �. _. .. � � . .. ON RED ' � �" . � `_ , T< a � � 3 ` � A Y�4w f . ~- i ' � . � 1 C l f ,` � � � S,� �' . :+� ��•�� , � •�I �� x��_ ; ' fer �' � " — �� i, ���-- � ���r�?'�,,� 1� ,*.� �? y � _ � , ��i _ �.� � .� .�,', � , � � r - - - �� • ',� �� � � �I ' .'� � � �mr r � �+'�` .� �'� � � � � .� > � � r� � r _ , � � � - i� �,"��.,r��" ,. T i� 4� J"'"'T� ' ( �, . ��, � ��� � h ... �� 0 ` .pE , �,_ �T �� �,#"� � � .��,j' �-'_ � ! � ��� � [` �y.. �� t. � { � ; �ji� #� Q�'1' ��1�1�� ��.r' ':''"'� . / Ts'!: r� � _ Ri .��. , — � �'�'+����'''.' � ���'�"�a�r_ —. �.� �r•�.. _ ��.-.1'Rf�� . , �. _ � _ - — � ,i. ���I � �� 1 _ .f . � I .�I � / � � � � _ � .. y '�. �..._ � �� , :=;r;;� i' �. ` _ ,,��.�1 ` � � _ y.._ _. � ..� � �, , , y,,, •� �., , . '. _ , � ���.4 �- l - _ . '�. ,k- � �=���.. � � ~ � :�_ � _.' �� :.� , . � � .� `. ♦ ..- " c•.. � . -� }' ���ti 7 � � �,: - "�S-..',i � �r 3 ��+ ..` . ..;/ # . � 'Y I ► .� ���,�!� `� } ., �� � w�R � � � �� }� ♦: "��' ' �r�s � w � � �� � � F ' '�! � ��. . �� 1 r Y. � + "�• - ^ . �� . ��; �� �+�' � / r � " '' � !' - ,� , � � � -'� :���,��, 'ti` �F �' .¢ �, � � �� � � �� a * ,. Ma' tt,� i` �r,�'+ ' ` � � _ � a'�:�•� ` 4 ;�� � `" . �`� �:. + � �'� �'� , . . . � �} ; 4r � � 1 > _ � �. ��� ,'� � I � � - ',�f ' �.'�1 ! � � � .r 'r�y' �. �,�,�, � ��: ;� � f , ;�'': x+'' r , ��+ij,�� ,. -: , � ' �`� ��..� : ,�'�,,.� i �y,' ••; �Z • , y� �'�- . ��' , �� .� ,x qifr� . ,''1 � t ¢ � '� ifEr,,i � -�, �� � �� i��, n . , L�y�i � ' �'� � �� �ar . . _S..i�; � .x. _ �' � 1t. .-, t . . tl . 3���a.�i' h��i � '�._�i'{.. 4Y~.v"k,� .a �. , - ♦ i�'. _.. +� _� MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa The most prominent mode of transportation for residents of Maple Ridge is the private automobile. As is the case in most other communities in Metro Vancouver, over 85% of all trips generated from the city are made by car. Maintaining an efficient and well planned road network to serve local travel as well as inter- municipal connections is a priority for Maple Ridge. The Road Network Plan is designed to support all modes of travel, including general purpose traffic, goods movement, transit, walking and cycling. In most communities in North America however, motor vehicles are often given preferential treatment on the roadway network, sometimes at the expense of walking, cycling or even transit. In general, roads in Maple Ridge serve two primary objectives, which are to provide accessibility to individual parcels of land and to offer efficient mobility to road users. City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Daily Travel Mode Choice from Maple Ridge Walk gicycle Other 3%_ 1% _(taxis, etc) Auto unver 80% This section of the Strategic Transportation Plan (STP) presents long-term directions for the multi-modal road network in Maple Ridge. �f .�,. ,. ..n th - -�, There are many issues facing the city's roadway network today and over the next 20 years. Discussions with community stakeholders and a technical review of current and forecast traffic conditions provides insights into the shaping .. . . influences on the road network as well as the long-term .- . -... challenges as briefly highlighted below. , _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ • The network of arterial, collector and local roads within the south-west areas of the city is dense, while the northern and eastern areas are less established (see Map 1). The roadway network within the city consists of one Highway along with several major arterial roadways, collectors as well as local streets serving and connecting neighbourhoods. Within the urban areas of the city, the network is generally well developed. In the eastern and northern areas such as in Silver Valley and Cottonwood, the network is concentrated on a few primary roadways and is discontinuous in several locations as a result of significant natural and topographical barriers. October 2014 Page 24 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MoTI) is responsible for the primary east-west route through Maple Ridge — Lougheed Highway / Haney Bypass — which is generally a two to four lane corridor connecting Highway 11 in the east to the Mary Hill Bypass and Highway 1 in the west. The Haney Bypass is part of the Provincial Highway system through Maple Ridge, connecting Lougheed Highway on the east and west sides of the Town Centre area. Dewdney Trunk Road, 128/Abernathy, 232 Street, 132 Avenue, Fern Crescent and portions of Lougheed Highway are all part of the Major Road Network (MRN) that serve regional traffic, transit and goods movement. These roadways are owned by the City and jointly operated with cost-sharing on maintenance and rehabilitation from TransLink. The east-west major roadways serve a large portion of inter-municipal travel between the city and other Northeast Sector communities and South of the Fraser River via the Golden Ears Bridge. With a majority of local and regional travel being accommodated on a select number of major roads today and in the long-term, the STP will explore and identify potential improvements and new corridors to accommodate overall growth and development. • The majority of daily vehicle trips generated from within Maple Ridge stay within the city (see Map 2). On average, over 60% of vehicle trips that originate within Maple Ridge have a destination within the city, while 20% have a destination in the Northeast Sector including Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam and Coquitlam. Approximately 8% of daily vehicle trips are destined for Surrey/Langley and Burnaby, and the remaining trips are distributed between Vancouver, Richmond, Abbotsford and New Westminster. October 2014 Page 25 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Co-Lurnhfa Map 1: Existing Roadway Classifications 8� Signalized Intersections � �Itjj o.' � . . . � f -;,�.3 N1�ac� — —� i I te5 � � _ � I � �Q`fiG tn w 13z�Ave 132 Ave ry � ��128 Ave `� vr U] r � � ro � 124 Ave � � 123 Ave J �' m � 122 Ave 0 N � � Lough,eed IIwV R�v er Major Road Network Highway Arterial Road Collectar Rvad Local Raad � 5ignalized lnterse�tian � Pedestrian Signal N � N Trunk Rd , � 112 A 04 Ave 102 Av� l�d Ave 124 Avc � � tD � Ln�r�heed H�yY `��`�s�'Y I�t��e� City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan DiStrict vf Maple Ridge � � N I I � I ❑ewdney Trunk Rd I � 112 Ave v� I � � w IN I � � � 0 � N � n ! N * � October 2014 Page 26 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Pitt Meadvws NE S zo�ia E-- f--- r _z��.r � City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 2: Daily Travel Patterns from City of Maple Ridge 4 r (p�tt M � Ada v�, s � 3� r.,•' �16 Are � n f• ni I:J .4t� I ,e �7t n... � . _1� 1tc i � '" g��n�bV Ii��i:TM1�[: F-n�� 4 % „ , xs 5� f �?istrief ❑f ;:':a}�le Ridge I i.0 n,t I ^ U=_ivd�e�i l��nl Rd I '+ �/� � Fraser Valley I _12 AV[ „ I � h I __/. Av:� .n I �.�; ,. � � r I 1V0 Ate ` I L y rc^� L { � Loi�6her. ;, I � . f.. Y[] t � � p _ Z 3 .y •� n r �_,., A 4 % �::�� .�r:_�, (Data Source: 2008 Regional Household Travel • East-west roadways carry the majority of traffic. As expected, the predominant flow of traffic across the city is concentrated on the east-west corridors of Lougheed Highway and Dewdney Trunk Road as well as 128 Avenue / Abernathy Way to lesser degree. As highlighted in Map 3, all three corridors carry up to 4,700 vehicles per hour in the peak directions in the western areas of the city. Peak directional traffic is slightly lower on the east side of the city where Lougheed Highway, Haney Bypass and Dewdney Trunk Road collectively carry less than 3,000 vehicles per hour in the peak directions. Externally, it is estimated that over 70% of all vehicle trips entering and leaving the city to the west using Lougheed Highway and Dewdney Trunk Road and approximately 30% are going to and from the south across the Golden Ears Bridge. Although the Golden Ears Bridge can serve more than 4,000 vehicles per hour per direction, the capacity of east-west corridors is obviously very critical for externally generated vehicle and transit travel. Within the STP, long-term growth along these major roads within the city will be forecast along and potential improvement strategies will be explored to address areas of significant delay and congestion. October 2014 Page 27 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Co-Lurnhfa 1,35� (aia) � 450 {1,24Qy � Map 3: AM (PM) Peak Hour Corridor Traffic Volumes 2� 1 �� �'�°J � �`��, � u �/� , s,o�� ao) � � I � � 840 680 {�� � ��,QQO �_ �� � �,�gp� ��� I �— �'�����i �__ '�° �� � � 328'h Avenue v o �liQ � � �ewdney Trunk Road $�d ?�����s$Qj s�.� l N � � � N� ■Q o c 9Q0 (IQQ� � -- � ss� (g�o� k�augheed �lighway � -"�Anad � _ - �. �� M N m N City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan I LEGENd � Existing Obser+red AM Peak Hcur 100 �arridorValumes (100� Existing �hservetl RM Peak Haur CarridorVolumes AM P�Uk huuh Moddl��J Li�ik L6t�<<���s �� �� � � � � � � � � N Lougheed Highway, East aF232"d Street � 8 = 4���� o 830 i790)^' ��� ���J Lougheed Nighway � �ao [�,Z�a� See inset for volumes on Lougheed Highway, East of 232"d Street October 2014 Page 28 305 (190) � 200�Oj MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • Lougheed Highway intersections have the highest collision rates in the city. ICBC collects and maintains statistics for all reported collisions in British Columbia. The collision are classified based on the type of collision as follows: fatality, injury, or property damage only, and also include reported collisions involving pedestrians or cyclists. As shown in Figure 3, the highest collision rates throughout the city are generally found at intersections with moderate collision rates on the Lougheed Highway and Dewdney Trunk Road (with rates of anywhere from 1.0 to over 2.0 collision per million vehicles). These corridors and intersections also accommodate the highest traffic volumes in the city. > v � 0 U N � � C 0 .N 0 v Figure 3: Collision Rates of Top Collision Prone Intersections zs z.o 1.5 1.� 0.5 0.0 1 o�"�a ��� ��� �� ��a h� ��� ��� ��� �� � o'' � ��� r¢¢a r¢¢a `�¢¢a r¢¢a �'a\'L r�ea r¢ea r�¢a `�eea a�� �,��� �,��� �,�J� �,��� ����' �,��� �,��� �,��� �,�J� �� ��,\ ��,\ ��.\ �,�,\ � �a\ ��,\ 55� h�,\ ���.\� ,LO'� ,L'L4i ,L�,1 .1,'L�` �at`� `Jc�F- ,Lp1 �JQa �a�J 'L'L Oe ace'� a�eJ � � O� Intersection (Data Source: ICBC Safety Data 2007 to 2011) • Local and regional growth will influence travel patterns and traffic conditions. Over the next 20 years, population and employment growth within the city and externally will result in increased traffic and congestion. Map 4 illustrates the percent increase in the morning peak hour traffic crossing key screenlines along major roads in the city. In the western areas where traffic volumes are highest, peak directional traffic demands are projected to increase by 100% over the next 20 years. In other words, westbound peak hour traffic volumes could increase from approximately 4,500 vehicles to over 9,000 vehicles by 2031. In the eastern areas of the city, peak hour traffic is projected to increase by 50% over the same timeframe, placing greater pressure on fewer east-west corridors. Within the core areas of the city, north-south traffic demands are projected to increase by approximately 45% over the next 20 years. Without improvements to the major roadways in Maple Ridge, the projected growth levels will continue to place greater pressure on a select number of existing roadways that are currently experiencing moderate to more significant delays and congestion, such as along Lougheed Highway, Dewdney Trunk Road and 128 Avenue/Abernethy Way. October 2014 Page 29 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 4: AM Peak Hour Traffic Growth by Screenlines Across Key Corridors w � 128`� Avenue � I oewdneyTrunkRoad • -. � Lougheed Highway � S4'��R�ad a�BbB y��s �� �LEGEND � �AM Peak Modelled Screenllne Growth-PercentChan6e �2031- 200H� SCREENLINE: ��North of �ewdney Trunk Foad ¢�North af 128�� Avenue ��Eastof2U3"�Street � East of 216'�' Street �� Eas[ of 232"^ Stree[ • Signalized intersections along key east-west corridors will continue to experience increasing delays during peak periods. Today, signalized intersections are the source of most delay experienced on urban roadways and which are typically measured in terms of Level of Service (LOS). LOS A suggests that there is no delay and LOS F indicates the intersecton is failing and that drivers will experiences significant delay and vehicle queues. For planning purposes, a LOS D or better is generally used as the minimum target. Today, most signalized intersections in Maple Ridge are operating at a LOS A to C during the PM peak hour indicating that there are modest levels of delay at many intersections. The primary exceptions occur along Lougheed Highway at 203�d Street, 222�d Street, and Haney Bypass and 232nd Street where delays are more significant during the PM peak hour. Planned growth within and around the city will place greater pressures on the existing roadway network, resulting in greater delays at these and other signalized intersections. In particular, the delays and congestion will worsen along Lougheed Highway and Dewdney Trunk Road. Map 5 summarizes the existing and forecast PM peak hour intersection levels of service on the left and right sides respectively. October 2014 Page 30 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 5: Existing and Forecast 2030 Intersection Levels of Service izs nUc � - � ,. _ -- -- � _ _ _ N � � Vt �_ T �-_ ry �� "' 124 Ave � �' I 123 Ave — -- I� m � 122 Ave � � a � I I � �ewdney Trunk Rd I -- � -- �- � LougF�ieed —Hwy � -----' _ --_�L-T -� ` " l in I 0 � �._�'yef �d % a O I N� _.a � �� � � 112 Ave �1�� PM Peak Level Of Sewice Existing Future Q ATaC D D ` E ' � F ' Tpwnship of Langley — Provincial Highway — Arterial - — Colieclar Local � ?Sh .. ,'�. r- U 1 2 KiEometers 104 Ave ` / � ioz a„� � 3 4 1Z4 100 Ave [o��d kWy � � • Growth from the Silver Valley area is placing greater pressures on an evolving road network to serve the area, and lack of facilities for pedestrians and cyclists make the experience of walking and riding within Silver Valley uncomfortable. The Silver Valley area is approximately 40% developed and is principally served by two lane major roadways such as Fern Crescent, 132 Avenue, 136 Avenue and 224 Street. As of 2013, there were approximately 1,700 homes located within the Silver Valley area of the 4,200 planned units. When Silver Valley is completely developed, the area will generate approximately 3,500 vehicle trips — primarily from the areas east of 232 Street. The STP examines growth pressures on existing major corridors and explores alternative routes to provide capacity and access to the Silver Valley area such as the 240 Street crossing of the Alouette River in addition to emergency vehicle access. In addition to the long-term road capacity needed to serve the area, increased traffic on rural roadways serving the Silver Valley makes it challenging for pedestrians and cyclists along these access routes where there are limited shoulders, lighting and separation from increasing traffic volumes. • Traffic congestion within the Town Centre. As growth throughout the city occurs, the primary corridors in the downtown areas of Maple Ridge are serving regional and city-wide travel as well as vehicle trips to, from and within the Town Centre area. In particular, delays and congestion in the downtown area has been a historical issue for residents and business owners. While there is a desire to improve traffic in the core area, there are also concerns about the potential impacts that these October 2014 Page 31 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan changes may have on the downtown area. For example, one way couplet systems along Dewdney Trunk Road and either Lougheed Highway and Brown Avene have been identified in past as potential strategies to address area delays and congestion. Although these strategies would potentially reduce delays, the provision of one-way couplet system would generally make access to and driving around the core area of Maple Ridge more difficult. In fact, business owners in some cities where one-way couplets exist are trying to remove them because they make circulation within downtown areas more difficult and can create barriers out of some roadways for pedestrians and cyclists. Rather than examine potential couplet systems for the Town Centre area, improvements to alternative corridors are explored as part of the STP in order to accommodate growth in regional and city-wide traffic. • Neighbourhood traffic concerns. With population and employment growth in the city over the last decade, residents living on some collector and local roads are experiencing the impacts of increased traffic volumes and in some cases speeding and short-cutting. For those areas without sidewalks, the impacts of increased traffic volumes are more pronounced as comfort and safety of residents have become a primary concern. In a parallel process to the STP, neighbourhood traffic management strategies are identified to support and maintain quality of life for residents living on collector and local roads. Additionally, pedestrian and cycling facilities are identified as part of the STP for major roads throughout much of the city. • Limited alternatives to access the industrial areas along the waterfront south of the CPR corridor. Some of Maple Ridge's industrial areas — namely the Hammond and Albion areas — are located south of the CPR Mainline, which traverses the city from west to east along the Fraser River. Because there are no grade-separated crossings into and out of these areas, access can be interrupted by passing trains. With increased train activity, the movement of people, goods and services to the waterfront area are impacted. • Impacts of heavy truck traffic on rural roads. A majority of heavy truck trips are generally concentrated on the Lougheed Highway, as it is the primary through route in Maple Ridge and connection with the industrial areas along the waterfront. Beyond this east-west connection across the city, the Major Road Networks within the city are also considered truck routes as regional serving roadways. Although trucks generally utilize the arterial road system, gravel operations and other light industrial uses at the north end of 256t" Street impact comfort and safety of other modes along the corridor and rural residential properties located south of 130th Avenue. Segments of the 256th Street corridor contain a separated pathway facility for pedestrians and cyclists as well as equestrian users. October 2014 Page 32 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa �n� c' City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan The roadway network in Maple Ridge serves all modes of travel and forms the structure of the transportation systems for cars, trucks, transit, cyclists and pedestrians. Over the next 20 years or so, the roadway network challenges facing the City of Maple Ridge must be addressed with a combination of major and minor improvement strategies that also consider and support other goals for walking, cycling and transit for travel within and outside the community. The long-term Road Network Plan and network classification system is shaped by the existing conditions and long- Roadway Network Plan Themes term pressures previously described. The Plan identifies a range of strategies from managing neighbourhood traffic to widening and developing new corridors to support - • � • ' � • � � growth and development. The improvement strategies may be examined in combination with � � _ � treatments for pedestrian and bicycle facilities described subsequent sections of the Strategic -. . •.- . Transportation Plan. The Road Network Plan is presented in six parts that progress from the major corridor .. ... improvements through to the local .� area initiatives. These improvement strategies are integrated into the long-term network plan and classification system as briefly highlighted below. '� 1. Major Municipal Roads will include improvements to the city's arterial and Major Roadway Network. These improvement strategies include both corridor widenings as well as provision of new connections that may be preserved for the very long-term (beyond 20 years). 2. Regional and Provincial corridors are principally focused on Lougheed Highway as a Provincial responsibility. Although improvement opportunities for the Lougheed Highway are identified in general terms, the City of Maple Ridge will want to support and work with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MoTI) to advance these potential projects. Additionally, connections with Pitt Meadows are also identified to serve local needs and to support external area transportation network improvements. October 2014 Page 33 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan 3. Completing the network in what are now rural areas of the city, only if and when development occurs, in order to provide access to areas such as to serve Thornhill and Kwantlen in the long- term. 4. Intersection operational and safety improvements located along the municipal and provincial roadway system within Maple Ridge are identified for further review by the City in connection with the MoTI as well as ICBC. 5. Neighbourhood traffic calming policy created in 2004 was revised in 2012 through a parallel initiative to the STP in order to maintain quality of life and safety on local and collector streets. 6. Long-term Network Plan and Classification that captures the historical and projected role and function of roadways within the city and highlights the new connections identified within the Strategic Transportation Plan. 4.2.1 Major Municipal Roads As part of the long-term Road Network Plan, several major municipal road improvement strategies are explored and recommended as illustrated in Map 6. These improvements include both road widenings as well as new corridor connections to serve growing areas of the city and to form the foundation of the city's major corridors for the long-term Road Network Plan. October 2014 Page 34 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 6: Candidate Major Municipal Road Improvements N I t ' ? y � ° ` _ 12S/Abernethy Way A s�;.� ,v�eadoLtis I fi � 232thStWidening � �nar�le Rid : � • — � c e" � ---J `� � I 240th 5t Extension Fe � g N 13 JAve 132 Ave � I N � + �N� �°P� ^' � .. —J —�`� I � J N 124 Ave `, � � � � � � � � �� 1Z4 Ave. . � 123 Ave `� � � � I 722 Ave rv ` �r� " `J ~ �ewdney ��k�d������ ; -. ,. ` Lougheed Hwy � " t ytd o ^a }y��e N f 112 Ave I A��ard Ues � ,.^✓nship ;'r Langley � 140 A�e 0 96 Ave � 128 / Abernethy Way 104 Ave ]92 Ave 100 Ave lou8�e�� �� V ��.4 _L, " Rit�er Ri�er Rd 98 Ave Dewdney Trunk �ewdr.ey ?r�nk Rd li2 A�e �+ � The 128 Avenue / Abernethy Way corridor is part of TransLink's Major Road Network between the Golden Ears Bridge and the Lougheed Highway through to 232 Street. Today, the western end of the corridor accommodates 1,250 vehicles/hour and 1,350 vehicles/hour in the peak direction during the morning and afternoon peak hours respectively. Between 224 Street and 232 Street, the peak directional volumes are much lower with approximately 350 vehicles and 400 vehicles in the morning and afternoon peak hours respectively. As regional and city-wide vehicle travel continues to increase, other east-west arterial roadways through the core areas of Maple Ridge will experience significant delays and congestion, particularly in the western areas of the city. In an effort to ensure that the network can support local and regional growth patterns, additional capacity and alternative routes across the city are required. The 128 Avenue / Abernethy Way corridor provides a more northerly alternative connection for existing communities and growth areas such as Silver Valley to access municipalities to the west and south of the Fraser River. Map 7 illustrates the projected long-term AM and PM peak hour directional volumes along the 128 Avenue / Abernethy corridor between 210 Street and 232 Street. October 2014 Page 35 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 7: Projected AM (PM) Peak Hour Corridor Volumes 128/Abernethy Widening (210 Street to 232 Street) � z,s9opzo� 770 (2,250) � / LEGENO � PropafeticorneorlaneConfi¢uratlon 109 ForecaStPMPeakHourCortidoiVolume �10�f �recastPMVeaFNourCor�idorVolume � Signali�etl M�ersx�ions � 1,600 (640) , 640 (1,SOSj � `� � +_ 1 zp�fS15� 4g5 {94p� ti �� N ^ In order to accommodate the 100% increase in east-west travel projected across the western areas of Maple Ridge, the widening from two to four lanes and extension of the 128 Avenue / Abernethy corridor between 210 Street and 240 Street is recommended as part of the STP. The extension of Abernethy Way beyond 240 Street to 256 Street was considered and is not identified as part of the long-term strategy since the Official Community Plan does not anticipate redevelopment of the area. Additionally, the costs and potential impacts would be greater than the benefits of an alternative east-west route in this area of the city. If development were to occur in the area as part of future planning, the City may wish to revisit this option and explore potential alignments for extending the 128 Avenue / Abernethy corridor. The order-of-magnitude cost estimate for the development of the entire Abernethy Way corridor is estimated to be approximately $23.3 million for the section between 210 Street and 240 Street as the ultimate four lane corridor. This estimate does not include significant property and other servicing costs, and is based on conventional intersection design (including traffic signals at major intersections) throughout the corridor. The 128 Avenue/Abernethy Way corridor widening and extension project may be implemented in three phases as illustrated in Map 8 leading toward a long-term four lane roadway with signals at major intersections. Each phase of the project is briefly described below. October 2014 Page 36 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 8: 128t'' Avenue/Abernethy Corridor Improvements �b� , , ,:,:..,: , ^--J � � Q ---J � I `� 13�Ave 132 Ave I N � � 128 Ave �' �J � � � >. N N +" m > 'J � 124 Ave 4 123 Ave ^' m 122 Ave O N Lougheed Hwy f �I- Phase 1 210 to 224 St (widen to 4 lanes) - � Phase 2 — 224 to 232 St � (widen to 4 lanes) 0 � a. Phase 1: 210 Street to 224 Street eS L� �t� F N `� N Dewdney Trunk Rd Phase 3 — 232 to 240 St (extend as 2-4 lanes) � � N 124 Ave � � � r.f �04 Ave Phase 4 — �oz Ave 240 to 256 St (extend as 2 lanes) In the short-term (less than five years), this 3 km section of 128 Avenue / Abernethy Way should be widened from 2 to 4 lanes between 210 Street to just east of 224 Street in order to accommodate projected long-term traffic demands. At the same time, provisions for turn lanes should be included as part of the widening at key intersections such as Laity Street, 216 Street and 224 Street. Traffic signals should be implemented at each of these locations based on warrants and traffic operational analysis. Implementing signals in advance of these warrants could reduce travel speeds and attractiveness of this east-west corridor as an alternate to Dewdney Trunk Road to the south and 132 Avenue to the north. The conceptual capital cost to widen this section along with intersection improvements is estimated to be approximately $9.4 million, not including property, utilities and any significant mitigation measures. b. Phase 2: 224 Street to 232 Street In the medium-term (5 to 10 years), 128 Avenue / Abernethy Way should be widened from 2 to 4 lanes between 224 Street to just east of 232 Street. The conceptual capital cost to widen this section along with intersection improvements is estimated to be approximately $6.7 million, not including property, utilities and any significant mitigation measures. October 2014 Page 37 � � ' City of Maple Ridge � - Strategic Transportation Plan c. Phase 3: 232 to 240 Street The widening and further extension of 128 Avenue / Abernethy to 240 Street is included in the STP as a long-term improvement option and is more desirable should the 240 Street crossing be implemented. Although the projected traffic demands do not support this scale of investment (as discussed later) for city growth, it remains in the Plan as a long-term possibility to provide an alternative access to the Golden Ears Provincial Park. If the crossing were implemented, the third phase of the 128 Avenue/Abernethy corridor improvement includes a four-lane extension from 232 Street to 240 Street as well as a new signalized intersection at 240 Street. As illustrated in Map 9, this improvement would accommodate approximately 1,400 vehicles in the peak directions during the morning and afternoon peak hour by 2031 if the 240 Street extension and crossing is implemented. A significant portion of this projected traffic would be diverted from Dewdney Trunk Road, with slightly less traffic generated from the 240 Street crossing. The diversion of traffic from Dewdney Trunk Road would reduce some of the existing and long-term delays and congestion along this east-west corridor through the Town Centre area. Map 9: Projected AM (PM) Peak Hour Corridor, 128/Abernethy Widening (232 Street to 240 Street) N ^ � 1,375 {650) �k - ., 560 (1,410j � LEGEN� � Proposed Corridor lane Conftguration lOQ Fore�astAMPeakHourCorridorVolume (100) ForewstPMPeakHourCarridorVolurne �'j: Signalixed Intersections � If the 128 Avenue / Abernethy extension was needed, the City will want to explore right-of- way and alignment options east of 134 Street in order to manage community and environmental impacts as well as overall costs. The conceptual capital cost for this 2 km section of the 128 Avenue / Abernethy corridor is estimated to be approximately $7.5 million, not including property, utilities and any significant mitigation measures that may be required. Provision of the 240 Street crossing and this 4 lane extension of 128 Avenue / Abernethy are considered long-term improvement options (10 to 20 or so years). October 2014 Page 38 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa d. Phase 4: 240 to 256 Street City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Dewdney Trunk Road has the capacity to accommodate the projected traffic volumes for the planning horizon. Beyond the next 20 to 25 years, the City may consider and wish to preserve the option of extending 128 Avenue / Abernethy Way east to 256 Street as an alternative access in future. 240 Extension and River Crossing (Abernethy Way to 132/Fern Crescent) The long-term need for additional access routes to and from Silver Valley was identified in the neighbourhood planning work. In addition to 232 Street widening, a 240 Street crossing of the Alouette River was identified as the secondary north-south alternative between Abernethy Way and Fern Crescent, as illustrated in Map 10. The connection was also identified as an alternative route for emergency vehicle access to and from the Silver Valley area as well as the Golden Ears Provincial Park. Projected peak hour directional volumes of approximately 350 vehicles in the morning and afternoon peak hours as illustrated in Map 10 suggest that only a portion of the overall traffic generated by the Silver Valley area at build-out would utilize the 240 Street connection. In this regard, 232 Street and 132 Avenue are much more direct between Silver Valley and the Town Centre as well as areas west of Maple Ridge. At best, the 240 Street crossing could provide emergency vehicle access to the Silver Valley area and serve as an alternative access the Golden Ear Provincial Park for visitors. Considering the significant cost for this project (estimated to be $40 million), the traffic demands for the crossing do not warrant this level of investment and should only be partially supported by the City. The City may wish to explore potential interests of senior levels of government to provide a long-term alternative access to the Park and in cost-sharing on the project. October 2014 Page 39 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 10: Potential 240 Street Extension and River Crossing N � -,�i...r,"�. ,�, . , . � _"�_ ]Y� A�i _ ..�-rr ' ss �. 'm �t oj 0 M 1l1 O � 00 M fr'► 4 O � � N �w-yr �L► LEGENO � Praposed torridar Lane Configuratian 100 Forecast AM Peak Hour Corcidor Volume [100j Fvrecast PM Peak Hour Corridor Vvkume "�'� Signali:ed Intersections .�.r Recognizing the significant cost of the 240 Street connection, alternative and perhaps more affordable emergency vehicle access alternatives are identified and as illustrated in Map 11. The first option is an extension of Birch Avenue to 233 Street across the Alouette River. A single lane connection located approximately 500m north of 132 Avenue East would provide a parallel east- west route for emergency vehicles into the Silver Valley area. Alternatively, a short emergency route could be planned immediately north of 132 Avenue East as areas are developed in the northeast corner of 232 Street/132 Avenue East. This emergency access would connect through to internal roads and to 132 Avenue East. A third alternative for emergency vehicles that may be explored further includes a crossing of the Alouette River to connect Fern Crescent with Dogwood Avenue. The conceptual alignments and costs of these and other emergency vehicle access routes should be explored further by the City before identifying a preferred alignment and configuration to incorporate into future capital plans. October 2014 Page 40 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 11: Potential Emergency Route Connections � _ . : . - ♦—► �. � _. . -.� .���� ���.,,� ,�., � :� :,,.-��.. _ - { « �`',' . "'��,��'�: - � i:�; r �� I: �f � • i - + : • •M • � ��� F r,, r_ ��� `y � • � � :iy. ' � . �� `i , - . . _ LEGEND Potenlial Ernerg[n<V �—� noueeconn�ctlonsJ � fC*f '`� ..aM� TjR J � ...�''��.,� � ,� � . e� =:'�. �.:�,.,;.�� : �� ��.6 ~-• � � r. � ...�lt,. �� � � ' �, �,� "'� w �� * f. � � � �� .,,-'.� �. ` •�' '�.` t '.l5�±�'�` - � , -. r- • ', a +�� +� *�6�4¢; y• �;R ��,' . 4' +v _ A� - 'jr`.`'��*T �-�.•L.. ��� • .N �. '���� � � y'�[ ,_� ' • J �'-, �-�;r , . yy �,y . ��. . *h � • � 1 � C� �. T , "'` �r�-, �� � .�:" ����� ��y1 �`� _} } . :� - T_ � .� •/ �.+��:�� s� � R '�. }�:: I �,+�i �+�k 3� - ''�j = i#� _ � - i .! � -:�' � � 'ti��' �:'• ', -- �� . .�` ' _ � 'q4� �.4•� ���� ��.. . �+ C� _'� � � i.'.' r .� t � � � � �- '�'R �_ •�,-�,� iii. Dewdney Trunk Road Widening to 4 lanes - 240 Street to 248 Street Dewdney Trunk Road is currently classified as an arterial roadway supporting east-west travel across the city. West of 240 Street, Dewdney Trunk Road is a four-lane roadway that carries approximately 1,200 westbound vehicles during the morning peak hour and 1,500 eastbound vehicles during the afternoon. Over the next 20 years, the peak directional corridor volumes are expected to increase to as much as 1,800 vehicles per hour. East of 240 Street, Dewdney Trunk Road is a two-lane arterial and accommodates significantly lower volumes – approximately 300 vehicles per hour in the peak direction. By 2031, the peak hour volumes are expected to increase to almost 1,000 vehicles per hour during the AM and PM peaks as illustrated below in Map 12. The order-of-magnitude cost estimate for widening Dewdney Trunk Road from 240 Street to 248 Street is estimated to be approximately $5.3 million. This estimate does not include property and other significant servicing and hydro relocation costs, and is based on conventional intersection designs (including traffic signals at major intersections) throughout the corridor. This improvement is recommended as a long-term project (10 to 20 years) within the STP. October 2014 Page 41 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 12: Proposed Dewdney Trunk Road Widening — 240 Street to 248 Street N ^ v � �10 [s3o) 725 (950j � LEGENO � ProvusedCorridorWneConfguratlon 1W F6reU5tAMPeakHourCorrid6rVolume {140) Farec'artPM Peak Ftour Carridor Volume � Signalixedlntersec�ions �3�s �zao� 260 �375� -► The City will want to preserve options of widening Dewdney Trunk road from 2 to 4 lanes between 248 and 256 Street should future growth in the eastern areas significantly increase east-west travel demands. 232 Street Widening to 4 lanes - Abernethy Way/124 Avenue to 132 Avenue (East) The Silver Valley area is expected to accommodate approximately 12,600 residents and generate as many as 3,500 vehicle trips during the afternoon peak hour by 2031. The majority of these trips will be generated from the central and eastern areas of the development. Today, access into Silver Valley is limited to a select number of arterial roadways that include 132 Avenue (east and west), Fern Crescent and 232 Street. Immediately to the west, 224 Street serves as an alternate north-south collector route into the Silver Valley area from Abernethy Way via 136 Avenue. As development continues in Silver Valley over the next 20 years, traffic demands on these corridors will continue to increase along with delays and congestion. Currently, 232 Street (north of Dewdney) and 132 Avenue (east of 232 Street) are both MRN roads (with a recently widened bridge across the south arm of the Alouette River with the capacity to accommodate four lanes). North of Silver Valley Road, 232 Street is classified as a collector roadway. Under the full build-out of the Silver Valley area, peak directional volumes on 232 Street south of 132 Avenue East are forecast to be as high as 1,600 vehicles per hour as illustrated in Map 13. Between 132 Avenue east and west, 232 Street volumes are slightly lower and can generally be accommodated on a two lane roadway, but intersection improvements such as a roundabout will likely be required at 232 Street and 132 Avenue west. For this segment of 232 Street, two concepts highlighted below may be considered through a refined operational analysis as well as a conceptual design and evaluation process: October 2014 Page 42 � � ' City of Maple Ridge � - Strategic Transportation Plan • Concept 1: 4 lanes between 132 east and west with signals at both intersections, or • Concept 2: 2 lanes between 132 east and west with roundabouts at both locations. It should be noted that the forecast volumes on 232 Avenue east and from 132 Street V� suggest that the existing roundabout at 132 Avenue east may need to be widened to two lanes under this option. The order-of-magnitude cost estimate for widening of 232 Street between 124 Avenue and 132 Avenue (east) is approximately $8.3 million. This estimate does not include property and other servicing or mitigation costs, and is based on conventional intersection design (including traffic signals at major intersections) throughout the corridor. Map 13: Proposed 232 Street and 132 Avenue/Fern Crescent Widening •� 690 (S10j 300 �940} �► � t � N G1 � a 'i � 11 � �'� 5e! 4-1,865�1,780� lmeh t� b90 `2,020j � � IEGEN� � P�npv:edCumda�fineCanfieuralwn SOG Foienst AM PuY How Canldor Vdumr '� � �100) FonastPMF�aklleur[aniEerlrolume � Sipupxed Inte�sections � RWMa0ou1 N ^ y���s 9 ' .�. y ...�' %,!ra. �' � ��r . ' �' ;�'�-���+.ri,'_'�� �,,� 3, - in,�e i: co��nt � � il O ti � O W � �O � �� •G1 �n:ee r can�ec� r �� O � � 4 .a" ..., � � rl M1 �8 � � O � O 132 Avenue East widening to 4 lanes (232 Street to Fern Crescent) 132 Avenue east of 232 Street is currently a two lane MRN roadway and also expected to experience significant pressure from the planned development within the eastern areas of Silver Valley. In the long-term, peak hour traffic is projected to reach almost 1,600 vehicles in the peak direction as previously illustrated in Map 13. The widening of 132 Avenue between 232 Street and Fern Crescent is required to provide the necessary capacity needed to accommodate projected October 2014 Page 43 vii 4.2.2 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan growth in the Silver Valley area. The City will need to explore alternative alignments and configurations in order to secure the right-of-way required to widening 132 Avenue through this area. The order-of-magnitude cost estimate for a widening of 132 Avenue is estimated to be approximately $1.2 million. This estimate does not include property and other servicing costs, and is based on conventional intersection design (including traffic signals at major intersections) throughout the corridor. 132 Avenue West Corridor Improvements (232 Street to 224 Street) The 132 Avenue corridor between 224 Street and 232 Street is classified as an arterial road. This corridor provides the most direct route between Silver Valley and the south-western areas of the city. As illustrated in Map 13, the projected long-term traffic volumes along this corridor are projected to reach almost 1,000 vehicles in the peak directions during the morning and afternoon peak hours. The City has worked with residents along the corridor to develop a plan that addresses traffic concern on the corridor and provides improved pedestrian, bicycle, and equestrian connectivity as traffic volumes continue to grow. These improvements include the provision of a 3.0 m multi-use pathway from 216 Street to 232 Street, and a series of lateral shifts with centre medians intended to reduce 85th percentile speeds. The plan also includes improvements to the intersection of 224 Street & 132 Avenue and four community gateway features (east of 216 Street, east and west of 224 Street and west of 232 Street). The order-of-magnitude cost estimate for improvements along 132 Avenue west between 224 Avenue and 232 Street is estimated to be approximately $3.8 million to $4.3 million. This estimate does not include property and other servicing costs or costs for creek crossings. Inter Municipal and Provincial Connections The Lougheed Highway serves as the primary alternative to Highway 1 on the north shore of the Fraser River. It provides an important connection for people, goods and services between Highway 11, Golden Ears Bridge and the Mary Hill Bypass connection to Highway 1. The Lougheed Highway corridor also serves an economic role providing connections to key trade and industrial areas north of the Fraser River including the CP Rail yards in Pitt Meadows and Port Coquitlam. As east-west traffic volumes grow, the City wishes to work with the MoTI on the strategies for addressing mobility and safety throughout the corridor as well as those capacity issues along two and three lane segments of the corridor as previously described (including the Haney Bypass). In addition to supporting provincial mobility, the City is also working with the District of Pitt Meadows and TransLink on a requested connection to Golden Ears Way to maintain regional mobility. October 2014 Page 44 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 14 illustrates the key projects where the City of Maple Ridge will want to work with other agencies to preserve local, regional and provincial functions of these and other corridors. Map 14: Inter-municipal 8� Provincial Connections N C ity �. I — A a � �--1 � � Pitt Meadows — — J Proposed Extension ,3z A�e to Harris Road � � izs ave � ' � N ti �� J N 124 kve rv a 127 Ave IN 122 Ave J o i�o�$�eed HwY I� R1JQ` A �`,`♦ E � I pllard C�es � � Haney Bypass ��.�>'`` _ Widening � � E Y � 300 A�e 95 nve c�es `��� � ~ 124 Av� ❑ewdney Trunk Rd ,� N 112 A�e 104 Ave ]02 A�e 100 Ave ��"�hepy yWV F�"r�`�'� Riucr Ri�er Rd SB Ave i. Haney Bypass Widening from 2/3 lanes to 4 lanes i-- „ ._ � � _ I � � � � � I Ue�didrey "r��nk Rd I I ll2 pre �+ I � � � Lougheed Widening 272nd 5t Yo 2$7t�' SY n ,n '�_ I m �rk y � ro h t 1 E--------� The Haney Bypass is generally a two lane roadway east of 227 Street and three lanes to the west (2 westbound and 1 eastbound). The Bypass connects with the Lougheed Highway on both the east and west sides of downtown and serves as an alternative route for through traffic to avoid the downtown area. Today, directional volumes along the Haney Bypass range anywhere from 1,000 to 1,300 vehicles during the morning and afternoon peak periods — the capacity of a two lane rural road. The delays experienced along Haney Bypass are further exacerbated by the signals at either end. Delays experienced by the westbound left-turns at the eastern intersection with Lougheed Highway and the overall delays at the western intersection are significant during peak periods (LOS E). This will only worsen over time as east-west regional and city-wide travel continues to grow. Improvements at both eastern and western intersections with Kanaka Way and Lougheed Highway respectively along with the widening of the Haney Bypass to four lanes would result in significant growth and diversion of traffic from the downtown area where congestion and delay will October 2014 Page 45 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan continue to increase. As shown in Map 15, peak directional volumes on the Haney Bypass are projected increase to over 2,200 vehicles per hour in the next 20 years. Map 15 also illustrates the general corridor lane geometry and new signalized intersections at Callaghan Avenue, 227 Street and Burnett Street. Once again, the City will want to work with the Ministry on improvement strategies to address these projected travel demands. I � 2,190 (1,625] w L II 1,425 (2,680y y ' � Map 15: Proposed Haney Bypass Widening ,�;, .� . Y0 ryF�� �].,430'1,170j `'�I ; 1,140 (3,740} � �� � � ,� - ��4' ��,:a; LEGEND � Propased Corridar Wne Configura[ion 100 FarecastAMPeaNHaurCorcidarVolume �100} Farecast PM Peak Hour Corridor Volume "�r Signalized fntersMions ~?O T �9�%ys� 3����ds� � _ ii. Lougheed Highway Widening (east of 272nd Street) N ^ Lougheed Highway is not only an important east-west connector within the city, but it also serves as a vital inter-regional connection between the Fraser Valley and communities north of the Fraser River. Today, the Lougheed Highway is a two lane rural highway with signals at 272nd Street, 280th Street and 287th Street. During the peak hours, this eastern section of Lougheed Highway within the City of Maple Ridge supports approximately 1,200 vehicles in the afternoon peak direction. This section of the Lougheed Highway corridor is currently operating at the functional capacity of a two-lane rural road. October 2014 Page 46 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan As regional growth continues in the Northeast Sector of Metro Vancouver as well as in the Fraser Valley, this section of Lougheed Highway will continue to experience increased delays. By 2031, projected traffic volumes are expected to increase to slightly more than 1,600 vehicles per hour in the peak direction — beyond the capacity of the current Highway. The widening of Lougheed Highway from two to four lanes would provide the additional capacity necessary to accommodate projected growth. Map 16 highlights the projected 2031 traffic volumes for this segment of Lougheed Highway. Map 16: Proposed Lougheed Highway Widening N ^ iv � i,osa (i,oso) 960 (1,650) � �� �� LEGEND � Proposed Lorridor lane ConFiguation 10� ForecastAMPeakHourCortidorVolume �IOO) Fore`astPMPeakHourtorridorVoEume '�' SFgnalized Intersections North Lougheed Connector - = x,zso {z,oso� �� 94011,530j � . . A potential future connection from Abernethy to Harris Road in Pitt Meadows has been requested by the City of Pitt Meadows to support development plans immediately west of Maple Ridge on the north side of Lougheed Highway. This proposed north Lougheed connector would provide direct link between Abernethy Way/Golden Ears Way and Lougheed Highway immediately west of Harris Road. The proposed north Lougheed connector would also be designed to support east-west movement between Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, influencing both commuter traffic and the movement of goods. The City of Maple Ridge will want to review optional connections to Abernethy Way as well as functional characteristics of the corridor within Pitt Meadows so that the proposed connection does not adversely impact overall travel to and from the Golden Ears Bridge. Additionally, the City will want to maintain connections to Old Dewdney Trunk Road as this corridor is part of the MRN, and currently serves as an important alternative east-west route north of Lougheed Highway (even with a north Lougheed connector). Lougheed Corridor Priority Lanes As described in the Transit Strategy section of the Plan, Dewdney Trunk Road and Lougheed Highway will serve long-term rapid transit needs for Maple Ridge. This service will connect Maple Ridge downtown to other communities in the Northeast Sector and south of the Fraser River. October 2014 Page 47 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan West of Maple Ridge, vehicle priority lanes for transit and/or high-occupant vehicles should be considered along Lougheed Highway to increase people moving capacity. The City of Maple Ridge should work with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, TransLink and other municipalities to explore priority lane strategies. 4.2.3 Completing the Network The city's roadway network has evolved over time in response to growth and development. Further, there are several discontinuities that remain in the network as some areas have not been developed and/or topographical barriers make completing the network in some areas challenging. As growth occurs in the eastern areas of Maple Ridge, the City will want to complete the network in those areas illustrated in Map 17. These network connections include: Thornhill connector, Industrial Area connector, and 112 — 108 Avenue connector The completion of these discontinuities would provide several additional benefits to the city, as follows: • Provide access for residents of the community. • Reduce travel distance, which influences air quality and road safety by reducing total vehicle- kilometres travelled in the community. • Improve emergency access. • Enhance connections for alternative modes, such as walking, cycling, and transit. • Reduce congestion and delays at key bottlenecks by providing alternate connections to, from, and within key areas of the city. • Support economic development within the community. • Improve access to the city's Albion industrial areas. October 2014 Page 48 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa � tity af I _ Aa�tc nne�do,.,; - � __J � d � � _ s o i — — J x �' g` " �s1a�e i— � � 12B Ave ,., i � - N �:4 A�Y i23 Ave I a 122 pve J Ilou�hcctl Hwy � � pive� Rd a � Map 17: Completing the Network `QS c Fern Cres Realignment / '3z ""e 22g'h Ave Extension l I Allard Cres � � 7 h' aewd�er �,,,�k Hd owns ip of La �ndustrialArea N Connector ��i �F�' 96 Rve 112 Avenue/108 Avenue. "' l74 RVC H � � City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan t]istrict o' fViaple R;dge ❑ewdney lriink H� H 1�Z�h _ �O$th i�z a�e Ave Connector z 0.�� 1Q4 Avc 302 Rvz � 100 A�e [o�@h�ea NWv Thornhill i ��ci• R'°�' R� Connector HS Ave There are currently few options for east-west travel in the Thornhill area between Lougheed Highway and Kanaka Creek. The 112 Avenue/108 Avenue corridor has been identified as a potential east-west route in this area. It would require the construction of a new roadway between approximately 252 Street and 268 Street along the slope of GranYs Hill. The road would provide a complete east-west route between Lougheed Highway at the Haney Bypass (via Kanaka Way) and 272 Street. This route is supported by the city's emergency services to enhance access to existing and future development in this area of Maple Ridge. In addition, the route has been identified as a future bicycle route, as it would provide a desirable east-west route across the city that avoids Grant Hill when the area develops. Although there are three creek crossings along this route that would require environmental remediation, the connection would be relatively easy to complete. The conceptual, order-of-magnitude cost estimate for this connection is approximately $10 million, assuming a two-lane rural cross-section with paved shoulders for cyclists. This capital cost does not include any bridge structures, property, servicing or any mitigation. Because this connection is to correspond with any redevelopment in the areas, this network link is identified as a long-term improvement. October 2014 Page 49 � � ' City of Maple Ridge � - Strategic Transportation Plan ii. Thornhill Connector. As the Thornhill area develops, there will become a need for new connections to support access to and from the area. The City has identified a need for at least one new connection from the Thornhill and Albion areas to Lougheed Highway. One option is to extend Jackson Road southward over the escarpment to Lougheed, whereas another option would be to extend 256 Street southward to the highway. The optional alignment would require a direct southward extension of Jackson Road beyond 100 Avenue. This roadway would be quite steep (up to 11 %) in places and would require a culvert crossing of Albion Brook. As such, significant earthworks would also be necessary to construct this connection. Another issue that would need to be dealt with for this option would be crossing the Kwantlen First Nation lands immediately south of 100 Avenue. This option would cost approximately $5.2 million. Both of these routes would present significant challenges in many areas, including geotechnical feasibility, grades, environmental remediation, and property acquisition. Neither would be cost- effective unless significant development pressure existed in the Thornhill area. From the perspective of cost and environmental impacts, the second option would likely be preferred. However, from the perspective of property issues in particular, the first option would likely be preferred. The City would have to undertake a more detailed route selection analysis to determine the preferred option. iii. Albion industrial area connector. The industrial area is located to the south of River Road and Lougheed Highway between Tamarack Lane and 240 Street. The area is currently accessed by two connections with Lougheed Highway, one at Tamarack Lane and the other at 240 Street. The issues associated with the current access configuration include: • The western access is restricted to right-in and right-out movements, meaning that all vehicles leaving the area and wishing to travel westbound must go to 240 Street along River Road. • The Canadian Pacific Railway line runs parallel and adjacent to River Road and trains often block access to and from the Albion industrial area. In an effort to support industrial activity in the area and other growth that may occur, the City will want to examine alternative access strategies that involve a grade-separated connection between Lougheed Highway and River Road on the south side of the CP Rail corridor. Grade-separated connections that may be investigated include directional flyover ramps located east and west of 105t" Street or a half diamond interchange with a rail overpass in this same area. Depending on October 2014 Page 50 iv 4.2.4 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan configuration and geotechnical conditions, this connection could cost as much as $25 to $30 million. Fern Crescent Realignment / 128'" Avenue Extension South of 132"d Avenue and east of Balsam Street, Fern Crescent continues through the park where the roadway narrows significantly and there is minimal space to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists. Similarly, Fern Crescent south of 128t'' Avenue is also narrow with limited shoulder width. As the area develops, the need for safe and comfortable pedestrian and bicycle facilities along the primary roadways through the area continues to grow. In order to address these issues, the City has identified the potential realignment of Fern Crescent and extension of 128th Avenue east. In addition to accommodating the needs for pedestrians and cyclists through these improvements, the new routes would be classified as arterial roads, and Fern Crescent south of 128t'' Avenue would be reclassified as a local road. Intersection Operations & Safety In urban areas such as the City of Maple Ridge, the performance of the roadway network is largely influenced by signalized intersections. With the exception of the Lougheed Highway corridor, most signalized intersections in Maple Ridge are currently operating at a level of service (LOS A to C) indicating no or minimal delays. Over the next 20 years, several signalized intersections in the city will experience increasing delays with the projected growth in traffic. Map 18 below highlights intersections that are operating under failing levels of service (LOS E or F) in the future and/or identified as one the top collision location in the city. As the majority of these intersections are located on Lougheed Highway — a Provincial corridor, the City should continue advocate with the Ministry on planning shorter-term improvement strategies to reduce delays and improve safety at these locations. While considering the optimal use of the existing network, some improvement strategies may inlcude, but not limited to: Provision of turn lanes where adequate right-of-ways are available Signal optimization at intersections to improve overall intersection efficiency and safety October 2014 Page 51 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 18: Candidate Safety and Operational Improvements �, , n � � N W m � N �)'� ai'JP N i73 AVE' 122 Ave � 0 .y � � Iri:g�e� H�wy � � ^ w�� 5tiv r S �� �OW#15ii1 �; ❑f Langley Q L�SE�rF Q Top Collision Locatian � Top Callision Loeati�n With Ld5 E Or F 4.2.5 Neighbourhood Traffic Management � N Dewdc�ey Trunk Rd k. . 0 ti 1�2 Ave � -� ,� �� Lad Ave '� 142 15ve S00 Ave Zaui;hEp� k' ��C7'S��- �1 c?G'Y In 2012, the City updated the 2004 Traffic Calming procedures to address neighbourhood transportation issues. The primary goal of traffic calming is to improve safety and livability along neighbourhood streets (local and collector roads). Traffic calming measures are normally used to achieve these goals by accomplishing one or both of the following objectives: • Reducing speed. When most traffic on a road is travelling faster than the designated speed limit, it can negatively impact both livability and safety. • Reducing volume. Local roads are intended to serve the residents and businesses along that roadway. Collector roads are intended to provide access to local roads. Both types of road are designed to operate best when traffic volumes are under a certain threshold. When traffic that is not destined locally utilizes local or minor collector roads, the traffic volume may be higher than what is generally intended for that roadway type. This generally impacts neighbourhood livability, safety and quality of life. Traffic calming is one measure for addressing neighbourhood and city-wide traffic issues. Understanding the localized issues and determining context specific traffic calming needs will lead to appropriate October 2014 Page 52 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan implementation. Table 1 provides a list of various traffic calming measures that can be applied to a variety of roadway types. The Traffic Calming Policy is a guide and the City should continue to develop traffic calming plans on corridors with identified traffic speed and volume issues. Table 1: Types of Traffic Calming Measures Raised Crosswalk ✓ ✓ Raised Intersection** ✓ ✓ Sidewalk Extension** ✓ ✓ Speed Hump ✓ ✓ Textured Crosswalk ✓ ✓ Speed Cushion ✓ Chicane (one lane) ✓ ✓ Curb Extension ✓ ✓ Curb Radius Reduction ✓ ✓ On-Street Parking ✓ ✓ Raised Median Island ✓ ✓ Traffic Circle ✓ ✓ Road Narrowing / Road Diets ✓ ✓ Gateway Median1 ✓ ✓ Directional Closure ✓ Diverter ✓ ✓ Full Closure ✓ ✓ Intersection Channelization ✓ ✓ Raised Median Through Intersection ✓ ✓ ✓ Right-in / Right-out Island ✓ ✓ '`Potential measures pending consultation with these stakeholders. " Unraised sidewalk extensions are suitable for transit routes and minor collectors. "' Roadway not to exceed two lanes. ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ October 2014 Page 53 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa 4.2.6 Long-term Network Plan City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan The long-term network plan illustrated in Map 19 highlights the updated roadway classification system that incorporates the recommended improvements described in Sections 3.2.1 through 3.2.5. The roadway classification system generally provides guidance to planning land uses along the corridor as well as the physical design characteristics of the road based on the intended functions for each class as briefly highlighted below. • Provincial highways accommodate regional and provincial through traffic. At-grade signalized intersections are widely spaced, and direct access to provincial highways is minimized so as to maximize capacity and minimize delays to through traffic. Posted speeds are typically higher than other urban roadways — generally more than 60 km/h or higher and parking is usually prohibited. Transit service is often limited to express services with relatively few or no stops along the roadway. Within Maple Ridge, Highway 7 is a provincial facility, but it should be noted that the section of Highway 7 within the urban area of the city provides a more local function. • Arterial roads / Major Road Network. The Major Road Network (MRN) is principally composed of municipal arterial roadways that serve a regional function and that accommodate significant truck and/or transit traffic. TransLink has established criteria for designating roadways as part of the MRN, which are eligible for cost-sharing between TransLink and the municipalities for upgrades and maintenance. Although the MRN roads are generally municipal arterials, there are many arterials that are not designated as part of the MRN. The primary objective of arterial roads is to provide mobility. They usually serve regional traffic — travel between major local destinations or between municipalities. Direct access to arterial roads is often limited to commercial driveways, although many arterials in Maple Ridge also provide residential driveway access. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h and on-street parking is limited or not allowed. Arterials are often used for major transit corridors. Examples of arterial roads in Maple Ridge include Dewdney Trunk Road (east of 232) and 216 Street. Dewdney Trunk Road west of 232, 128 Avenue / Abernethy and parts of 232 Street are examples of the MRN within Maple Ridge. • Collector roads typically serve a dual function. They provide mobility for travel between local neighbourhood streets and municipal arterials, but they also offer a high level of access to individual properties. There are many private driveways along collectors. On-street parking is usually permitted if the road is wide enough and transit service is often provided. Posted speeds are usually 50 km/h, although they can be lowered to 30 km/h in school or playground zones. River Road and Laity Street are examples of collectors in Maple Ridge. The recommended road classification includes both a major collector classification for streets with higher traffic volumes and which play an important role in the City's road network, as well as a minor collector classification for collector roads with lower traffic volumes and a limited network contribution. October 2014 Page 54 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Local streets. The primary objective of local streets is to provide access to private properties. They allow neighbourhood residents to travel to and from the arterial/collector road network, but through traffic is generally discouraged from using them. Speed limits are generally low — not more than 50 km/h — and can be lowered in school and playground zones. Parking is usually permitted and transit service is not normally provided. Traffic calming measures are now commonly used to discourage the use of local streets for through travel. 4. The capital costs, potential funding partners and overall priorities for all major road improvements described in the road network section of the STP are summarized in Table 2. Although the priorities are generally identified based on the overall assessment of existing conditions and planned growth, funding partnership opportunities and property requirements may affect priorities during the timeframe of the Plan. The order-of-magnitude (Class `D") costs estimates are based on 2014 dollar unit prices and include a 35°/o contingency allowance, but do not include administration, legal, utility or drainage costs as well as any mitigation that may be required. Allowances for grading and creek crossing have been included as appropriate. Cost estimates provided in Table 2 should not be used for budgeting purposes until functional planning and design have been undertaken. The City should explore opportunities to coordinate roadway capital projects with improvements planned for other modes as well as ongoing roadway rehabilitation. October 2014 Page 55 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa �.IEiI UT Map 20: Long-Term Road Network Classification City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Collector Road Local Road Collector ••••• Arterial � � �`ti ��" Rive�- October 2014 Page 56 � � ' City of Maple Ridge � - Strategic Transportation Plan Table 2: Summary of Major Capital Road Improvement Costs and Priorities (2014 $) 128 Ave/Abernethy Widening 210 — 224 St 224 — 232 St 232 — 240 St (Option) Dewdney Trunk Rd Widening 240 St to 248 St 232 St Widening Abernethy to 132 Ave 132 Ave East Widening 232 St to Fern Cr 132 Ave West Calming 224 St to 232 St 240St Crossing (option) Abernethy to Fern Cr Haney Bypass Widening Lougheed Widening 272"d Sf to 287rh St $9.4 $6.7 $8.5 $5.6 $9.0 $1.2 $4.3 $40 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ October 2014 Page 57 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Table 2(cont'd): Summary of Major Capital Road Improvement Costs and Priorities (2014 $) 112t"/108tn Ave Extension 112�" Ave to 108t" Ave Thornhill Connector Jackson Rd to Lougheea Albion Industrial Access Lougheed to south Fern Crescent Realignment / 128tn Avenue Extension � $12.3 ✓ $6.0 ✓ $25 - $30 ✓ $3.1 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Intersection Operations & Safety Improvements �2'5 $2.5 $5.0 ✓ ✓ Neighbourhood Traffic Management Strategies �1.0 $1.0 $2 � ✓ ✓ Note: Costs are conceptual in nature (Class D) and are not typically used for budgeting purposes. They do not include any allowance for significant utility relocation, earthworks, driveway reconstruction, landscape restoration and legal cost. October 2014 Page 58 � . i �.;�,'� '• . . 'yC' � . . , . . ; :, r _ , .. . . ' .. } . '��•._, , , , :'I v ., � : � i_ � , � . a . . �� •�Y . . . . , . T � i�• ♦ �. a � ' �:5� � � . 1 � � .��' Mi�'����i17� - � �� : " , :�:��" .K` � �' ' " o�i , � x • � : , y � �,• _ . �iY4 `� }�y , f, �� �} � � �i-�::�'i v� '�}, . . �!�y'� i .� f •� ♦ , Y��1 � [' } � `�1 .h� . ��T . � 1 �' e `,� �. � . �`x� .- �S\�� M .i J{� �` �(. � . �S 1e'- `� _r` � . . .�i: \'��� � i1r� . • '4� • t .�t Y . r3� ' .�'ksy :5. �rS• '-y � �'�` . � � :� , �•�. ,� � � .. . ,t�a � . . .� �-� .� �''' r � r � i -�� �. ,7i . . ^' ' . �,9'`. - -�� '�; 1 `' � <<4 � t�` ~' �\ � _ „�,� ��. ,4..`;. _. . �LS? ��'• u� '♦ - � ,�. i . T: . ` � � � �T .A _' �, - 1 - LLlii.� ' i y` _ ,�`5- {?��� 7�� � � � ` `3'r � y� i. , . '� s � :,s+ ' ' �, ��FY ?' ' r. - :C�i ��'•�. ��� � . _ 't _ - . i. � � ��F' . .�. ! 'E� ��_ �-- � e.::. I :� . ��' �:� y � . � �'� ^ �-+���.�`,;, � , , �' h� . �y-�' •'K+. .. •. a � ...,._.ri- `: ._.. . _ ,-��-•;�-� - . - - _ - • - � '- - 4 � ti ��fiaw-f�Li�. . �• �����' _ ..�- _�_ j� "'; �a _ <"` ' - - -� �, - � .�� , , � - r � , -a ; - � . �a� 1� � , � �;', ' —, — �� � , , „ ,, . .� MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa Walking is the most fundamental form of transportation. Walking can be the mode of choice for an entire trip, and it can comprise a portion of a trip to connect with other modes such as an automobile or transit. Even though walking is so prevalent in our everyday life, policies and designs that encourage and facilitate walking as a mode of transportation within a community have often received lower priority than other improvements. By ensuring that a comprehensive network of sidewalks and walkways is in place and sound planning and design principles are followed, the City of Maple Ridge can provide an accommodating environment for pedestrians and increase the range of transportation choices for residents. a City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan n � � ��-.:.�,? f I'ti� Throughout Maple Ridge, there are several key pedestrian areas and generators where walking can and should be encouraged through the __ _ provision of attractive and accessible facilities. The city is home to a well-defined and historic Town Centre with a fine-grained, well-connected street network with densities and diverse land uses that support walking. Maple Ridge also has several important commercial corridors, including Lougheed Highway and Dewdney Trunk Road that include many destinations for pedestrians. Maple Ridge in general offers an abundance of opportunities for walking, hiking, and sightseeing throughout both its urban and rural neighbourhoods. The Pedestrian Plan provides a strategy to enhance connectivity and accessibility to, from, and within key city-serving pedestrian activity areas, such as commercial areas, city-serving parks, and recreation facilities. In this regard, people of all ages and levels of mobility should be able to easily access the most active areas of the city through pedestrian facilities that support universal design standards and treatments. The Pedestrian Plan also seeks to improve walkability in and around emerging growth areas of Silver Valley, Albion, and Thornhill. Overall, because sidewalks and walkways serve as the primary facilities for accommodating pedestrian travel, steps must be taken to ensure that a continuous network is in place throughout the city. ., � .� Ensuring linkages to commercial areas, schools, transit, parks .�. �._�_ and recreation facilities is a top priority of the Pedestrian Plan ,�_ .��_ � because these activity areas serve the widest range of � � � I�. pedestrians, both young and old, providing maximum value for .� �,���,� , residents. _ _ _ _ Beyond the role of pedestrian facilities in creating vibrant, attractive, walkable communities and in supporting other modes of transportation, there are many factors that influence the long- term direction of the development of the Pedestrian Plan for Maple Ridge. These shaping influences and challenges identified by community stakeholders are briefly highlighted below and used to shape the long-term direction for the Pedestrian Plan. October 2014 Page 60 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • Walking Activity. The 2011 Census reports that 3% of daily commute trips in Maple Ridge are made by walking. TransLink's 2008 Regional Trip Diary Survey reports that 10% of all daily trips (not just commute trips) in Maple Ridge are made on foot. The Trip Diary Survey also reports that most walking trips in Maple Ridge are short, local trips within Maple Ridge's boundaries, as the average walking trip distance is 2 km, with the majority of walking trips less than 3 km. In addition, the most common walking trip purpose in Maple Ridge is to go to and from elementary or secondary school, followed by walking trips made for shopping and recreation. In general, children and youth are responsible for the majority of daily walking trips in the city, as approximately 70% of all walking trips are taken by this age group. • Sidewalk coverage is limited in some established areas and some growth areas of the city. As is the case with most communities, the standards for providing sidewalks have evolved over time to where local guidelines suggest that sidewalks should be located on both sides of all urban arterial and collector roads; and on at least one side of all urban local streets. In addition, rural arterial and collector roads should have a walkway on at least one side of the street, while rural local roads are not required to have a walkway. Maple Ridge currently has approximately 250 km of sidewalks, including 35 km in the Town Centre and 215 km of sidewalks elsewhere in the city's defined urban area. Within Maple Ridge's urban areas that were developed long before the current standards evolved, approximately 65% of all streets have a sidewalk on at least one side of the street. Map 21 shows the presence of sidewalks on Maple Ridge's roads, whether they are located on one side, both sides, or none at all. • Discontinuous trails and pathways. The city's trail network is popular with local residents and visitors alike. The trail network is used by walkers, hikers, cyclists and equestrians with popular routes such as the Trans-Canada Trail, Golden Ears Provincial Park, Malcolm Knapp Research Forests, Maple Ridge Park, Kanaka Creek, Whonnock lake trails, and Port Haney Heritage Walk. Trails in Maple Ridge are integrated with Pitt Meadows' trail system, with the dyke trail along the North Alouette River providing a connection to trails in north Pitt Meadows along the Alouette and Pitt Rivers. These regional connections also facilitate access to the Pitt River Bridge and Port Coquitlam's trail systems. While the city has an established trail system, the pedestrian network is not very continuous through the community, as trails tend to be limited to park boundaries. October 2014 Page 61 v � MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Co-Lurnhfa Map 21: Existing Sidewalk Coverage (Collector and Arterial Roads) �ity �f � - . �If�n ���,ea7E �1 � � � I ! Lie t�' {�— �Ce I � 132�Ave 132 A�e i• 1 —� N � � � } �c� N� 124 A�p � . I� 123 Ave � m `� 122 AVe 6 ' �..� - � �I r �! Lough�e�d Hwy � � =- --I i.�r, � �I� i�- J \ �! �tive� Rd � 1r / N � ` � � Tvwnship af Langley Nate:Sfdrwaik Tn�entory shawn only for Collector and Artrrial roads. Na 5idewalks Present Sidewalk Dn 1 Side �f ThE Road Sidewalk Dn Z Sides �f The Road i ' �� L4 Aue '� I 1�Z Ave 1. f� � — r.r c�UghPA� Hwy �,�5�'� �1G7L'�- City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Di�triGt vf Mapl� Ridge October 2014 Page 62 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • Key pedestrian generators require attractive and accessible connections. There are several important pedestrian destinations within Maple Ridge, including commercial areas, institutions, schools, parks, and transit facilities. These destinations generate a significant amount of pedestrian activity and represent those areas that should be the focus of enhanced and accessible pedestrian treatments. In particular, the Maple Ridge Town Centre generates significant walking activity in Maple Ridge, with businesses, services, amenities, and civic spaces and places all located in close proximity, along with a fine-grained and well-connected street network that supports walking. In addition to the Town Centre, the Port Haney and Maple Meadows West Coast Express stations also generate significant pedestrian traffic at peak hours, as do institutions such as Ridge Meadows Hospital, as well as the five secondary schools and 17 elementary schools, and numerous community parks throughout the city. Each of these areas must be designed to be accessible for a growing population of seniors in Maple Ridge as well as others with physical and cognitive disabilities. Map 22 shows the pedestrian walksheds modelled on walking distances from the key commercial areas. This map highlights areas of the community that are within a 400-800m (approximately 5-10 minute walk respectively) radius of key commercial areas in the city. As is apparent, the neighbourhoods within short walking distance of the commercial hubs are found mainly around Dewdney Trunk Road and Lougheed Highway. The most walkable distances are found in and around the Town Centre. This analysis illustrates that residents living in and around the already urbanized areas of Maple Ridge have options to walk short distances to local services and amenities. However, neighbourhoods further north or south are located a much longer walking distance from these key areas, and the use of private vehicles is likely far more convenient to access these services. October 2014 Page 63 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Co-Lurnhfa Map 22: Walksheds to Key Pedestrian Generators � r � — — — � ° � I � G � r I.h � 1�1 A�� � i;1 ,Cv�• � � � � � ., � n � �.. N o�^' 7�� nve � � r 126 Avr � J 124 Rre 1 11 i Rvr I� �zz .�,� I� � S7rwr!nr}� Trun4 Hn��`.,�� �r�• il 4- � ��� ���■ L ���� , � _ ■ r l.ti �1 � �a��r��.�.:tl 'I',yy� ��� I„ V �� �� � ���I:w�'�� � _ �� rq � N / � , in a ��vP[ Rd �+ l:l• a4C " R � f � z�� r �2i��t°� _ i ( �n � � [ y��P � Y $ �``� �' roa n L� ,� ' •:�. S� I i � �`�` t�ys � G I' �1`a`a � � Township ' ❑f Langley City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan � Cotnmercial Area 5 Nlinute Walk {d00rnJ la Minute Walk ($a0m� � � � Municipal 8oundary N r � r� 9 °a i^ ian av� "' '� flFwdnFy �i�i�.l. ii1 � j r.. 1 rv LF2 Awe A 1O �e � �qS P �� � October 2014 Page 64 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • More people can be encouraged to walk in high activity areas through coordinated land use planning, urban design, and other supportive initiatives. Beyond the provision of attractive and accessible pedestrian facilities, the design of streets in urban areas can be an incentive or disincentive for people to walk. The Town Centre area of the city is planned and designed as a walkable community where streets and the design of buildings provide strong connections for pedestrians. At the peripheral areas of the Town Centre and in other parts of the city, the character of land uses and their design can discourage people from walking as many sites are designed for vehicles. In addition to the planning and design of pedestrian friendly land uses, support programs can also be used to encourage people to walk in pedestrian areas of the city such as the Town Centre. The City supports and encourages walking through a variety of events and programming including walk/run clubs, self- guided walking tours as promoted through the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Tourism Office, trail maps and resources, and the Safer School Travel program to assist parents in developing safe routes to school plans. Pedestrian Plan Themes • A lack of sidewalks on collector roadways in neighbourhoods can contribute toward ... .• concerns about pedestrian safety. In many areas of the city, and as in the case in other communities, a lack of sidewalks can often create perceptions about the lack of safety and comfort due to traffic volumes, speed and short-cutting on neighbourhood streets. While the City's Traffic Calming Policy described in the Road Network Plan section of the Strategic Transportation Plan can be used to address quality of life issues associated with traffic, the lack of sidewalks on neighbourhood collector or arterial streets can often address many of the safety concerns being raised by residents. �� _ .an The Pedestrian Plan identifies the need to support walkability in key areas of Maple Ridge. It also recognizes that the needs for sidewalks far exceed the financial resources available to the City even with a very aggressive capital program. In this regard, the focus of the City's efforts in the coming years will be on implementing key elements of the sidewalk network that will support and encourage local trips. The Plan recognizes that certain areas of the city generate more pedestrian activity than others, and there are different levels of priorities and treatments in the areas that will benefit the most. As such, the focus will also be on enhancing pedestrian facilities in areas of higher pedestrian demand. In some areas of the city, such as the Town Centre, where walking is and will continue the priority mode of transportation, special treatments are required to make walking an even more attractive experience. Streetscape treatments within and leading to those areas can go beyond the minimum October 2014 Page 65 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan standard and provide accessibility for all levels of mobility. In areas of growth and some established areas, interim strategies for wider shoulders or separated facilities may be considered along the busier collector and arterial corridors. The following discussion highlights the range of pedestrian strategies that are recommended within each of the pedestrian areas to help make the city more walkable. The focus of the City's efforts in the coming years will be on providing an enhanced sidewalk network, improved interim strategies for growth areas, enhanced treatments in the Town Centre, safer crossings, and walking support programs. The primary features of the Pedestrian Plan are described below: 5.2.1 Enhanced Network Coverage & Accessibility The ultimate goal of the City should be to provide the following level of sidewalk coverage throughout the municipality: • Urban Arterial: Both Sides • Urban Collector: Both Sides • Local Streets in Pedestrian Areas: Both Sides • Other Local Streets: One Side The long-term Pedestrian Plan provides direction on the implementation of sidewalk facilities. This is in addition to ongoing pedestrian improvement initiatives, such as accessibility and crossing improvements. The following discussion identifies the approach that was taken to prioritizing pedestrian improvements throughout the city. • Pedestrian Areas. Six key pedestrian areas have been identified throughout the city, as shown in Map 23. These are city-servicing pedestrian areas that represent major community facilities that have the potential for generating significant pedestrian traffic from a broader area of the city. The six pedestrian areas include: . Town Centre; Port Haney Station; Ridge Meadows Hospital; • Westridge Centre and Westgate Shopping Centre; • Maple Meadows Station; and • Thomas Haney Centre. Within each of these areas, a high priority is assigned for all roads, including local streets that currently lack sidewalks on at least one side of the road. Additionally, all pedestrian improvements must utilize universal design standards to support access for people with mobility challenges. October 2014 Page 66 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Map 23 Pedestrian Areas in Maple Ridge �32IAve � — � Wes#gate5fr�pp�rrg Centre � & UVestridr,�e Cerrtre Y r � �� �° sz� au I � lz3 e+ J �' o ��� �122 �� � � � � � � �•�� �4 �T� Lougl�eed Hwy � I �► � , r � 1��a . ��_ � _ ` °r ., � � ��''�` �`� f � � 132 Ave � � ,�' � � IIITcrple Rrdge � r., � �QWIi �2Rt1'2 � � 4v� � ,� W .,� � pQ�r.rrina�r. Tr��nL l7A . -n.#,�MC�l�w�w. r� - y � ��1 O r77 {7S � �.. � �=-- . —�� � �,_:�� �� •--� � �r�►��y c��t�e � #1� �' � ti� � � � � � 1 Rrd9� t � � Mead ows �'� klasprtal J11Ja��e Nlecrafows Port FlarreyStcxtiax� 5#a#iarr � � �. c! i�i � � � �p� f � 1�� AV2 � � 104 ,Ave� `Z 7 f�� a,rP • Bus routes. Because all transit passengers are required to walk at both ends of their trips, it is very important to provide pedestrian facilities (i.e. sidewalks or walkways) on both sides of all bus routes within Maple Ridge. This enhances the safety of pedestrians on bus routes, and makes transit more attractive as a transportation mode. For the purposes of assigning priority within the STP, pedestrian facilities along bus routes are considered medium-term and long-term priorities. • Other urban arterials and collectors. This category includes all other gaps in the sidewalk network along urban arterials and collectors and that do not fall into the preceding categories. Within the Transportation Plan, these gaps were identified as a`low' priority. This is not to imply that they should be deferred indefinitely. On the contrary, all gaps in the sidewalk network should be completed as soon as possible. However, it is recognized that, given the financial constraints, priorities for completion must be assigned. • Developing areas. In addition to the six pedestrian areas notes above, there are a few neighbourhoods in Maple Ridge identified as current and future growth areas by the City, including Silver Valley, Thornhill, and Albion. The Pedestrian Plan recognizes the need to ensure that attractive and safe pedestrian facilities are provided as development occurs over time within these areas. As described above, the City should have as its ultimate goal the installation of sidewalks on both sides of all urban arterials and collectors in the city, and on one side of all local streets. Ideally, this standard would incorporate boulevards between the curbs and sidewalks to provide a more comfortable walking environment. It is recognized that it would likely take longer than 20 years to upgrade all local roads in the city to meet this standard of having at least one sidewalk. For this reason, segments of local roads that do not meet these October 2014 Page 67 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan standards have not been identified as part of the STP. However, there may be opportunities throughout the 20-year time horizon of the Plan to upgrade local roads to meet the sidewalk standards in locations that have not been identified through the Plan. In this regard, this standard should be considered when local roads are being upgraded through the Local Improvement Program or through other programs or aspects of the Transportation Plan. For example, sidewalks could be installed to meet these standards as part of projects to widen roadways for bicycle facilities. A high priority has been assigned for the provision of sidewalks within the six identified pedestrian areas. The following discussion identifies the sidewalk needs within these six locations, as well as along collectors and arterials within 500m of these areas. Table 3 below summarizes the recommended sidewalk provision guidelines, organized by facility type, requirements, and material type (asphalt or concrete). Table 3: Sidewalk Provision Guidelines Type of facility Sidewalks Sidewalks Sidewalk Adjacent to Both sides requirements Material stop Concrete Concrete Pedestrian Areas Sidewalks Sidewalks Walkway Walkway At least one At least one Both sides side side N/A Asphalt or Concrete Asphalt N/A Concrete A high priority has been assigned for the provision of sidewalks within the six city-serving pedestrian areas identified above. The following discussion identifies the sidewalk needs within the six areas. Further details about specific locations, costs and priorities are provided in Table 4. a. Town Centre The Town Centre supports a diverse mix of higher-density land uses that attract multi-purpose trips, where people can walk between several locations for a variety of needs, such as work, shopping, or day-to-day business. Due to the presence of the many commercial services and amenities (such as 224 Street, Valley Fair, and Haney Place Mall), civic areas and spaces, schools, the Haney Place Transit Exchange, and Port Haney Station, the Town Centre area experiences the highest level of pedestrian demand in Maple Ridge and will continue to be an area of high pedestrian activity. Improvement priorities focussed within this area will benefit a considerable number of pedestrians and further enhance the ability of the Town Centre to attract walking trips. Within the Town Centre area, there are several streets where there are presently no sidewalks. Sidewalks are recommended on both sides of all streets throughout the Town Centre area to support and encourage walking and to enhance the image of the area as the commercial centre of the city. The following streets currently have no sidewalks along at least a portion of the roadway: October 2014 Page 68 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa • 117 Avenue • 119 Avenue • 223 Street • 224 Street • 225 Street • Brown Avenue • Callaghan Avenue b. Port Haney Station City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • Edge Street • Fraser Street • Garden Street • Mclntosh Avenue • Plaza Street • Selkirk Avenue There are no critical gaps in the sidewalk network around Port Haney Station to support walking to and from West Coast Express. However, connections between the Port Haney area and the Town Centre should be reinforced. Although there is currently a connection between these areas via the pedestrian tunnel at the Haney Bypass, there are other connections that could be improved. For example, a sidewalk should be developed along 223 Street between Lougheed Highway and the Haney Bypass (included in Town Centre section) and along the north side of River Road. c. Ridge Meadows Hospital There are relatively few gaps in the sidewalk network around the Ridge Meadows Hospital. In the longer term, the City should pursue the development of sidewalks on both sides of Laity Street between River Road and Lougheed Highway to support pedestrian movements around the hospital. Sidewalks should also be provided on both sides of 117 Ave. d. Westridge Centre and Westgate Shopping Centre The sidewalk network in areas around the Westgate Shopping Centre is well developed, but there is a need for pedestrian facilities along 119 Avenue between 203 Street and 207 Street. As well, there is no sidewalk on the north side of Lougheed Highway between 119 Avenue and 210 Street. Although this is provincial jurisdiction, the City should pursue improved pedestrian facilities along Lougheed Highway for Maple Ridge residents. e. Maple Meadows Station The sidewalk network around Maple Meadows Station is relatively well developed, but there are several key gaps in the network that should be pursued. These will support pedestrians walking to and from West Coast Express and the commercial area at the Lougheed Highway/Dewdney Trunk Road intersection. For example, there is limited sidewalk coverage on portions of Dunn Avenue. More importantly, however, there is no sidewalk along Hammond Road between West Street and 203 Street. A sidewalk or a wide paved shoulder to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists should be developed. October 2014 Page 69 m � MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa f. Thomas Haney Centre City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan There are sidewalks along at least one side of most roads around the Thomas Haney Centre. However, sidewalks are presently not provided along Adair Street, 117 Avenue, and 232 Street north of 116 Avenue. Bus Routes It is the City's objective to provide sidewalks along both sides of all existing and proposed transit corridors within Maple Ridge. The following streets have gaps in the sidewalk network that need to be complete in order to support pedestrian travel to and from bus routes. Further details about specific bus route locations, costs and priorities are provided in Table 5. 117 Avenue 123 Avenue 203 Street 240 Street Ditton Street Other Urban Arterial and Collectors • Laity Street • Lorne Avenue • Maple Crescent • Princess Street • River Road (216 St — River Bend) In the longer term, the City should strive to provide a sidewalk on at least one side of every urban collector and arterial roadway in the municipality. The following discussion identifies other gaps in the city's sidewalk network that do not fall within the preceding categories. Further details about specific locations, costs and priorities are provided in Table 6. • 121 Avenue • 230 Street • 122 Avenue • 232 Street • 124 Avenue • Cottonwood Drive • 126 Avenue • Laity Street • 203 Street • Lorne Avenue • 206 Street • River Road (207 St — Laity St) • 228 Street 5.2.2 Interim Strategies for Growth Areas Three future growth areas have been identified for special consideration within the Pedestrian Plan, and are identified as Development Areas Precincts. The Silver Valley, Albion, and Thornhill areas are all in areas identified to accommodate portions of future growth in Maple Ridge. While the majority of these developing areas do not currently have many key pedestrian generators, it is recognized that as development occurs over time, more parks, schools, and neighbourhood commercial centres may arise that will require sidewalks and treatments to enhance walkability for current and future residents. October 2014 Page 70 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Improving the walkability in the areas of Silver Valley, Albion and Thornhill will serve new and existing residents and will attract more people to these areas. In general, there are three strategies to improving pedestrian facilities in these Developing Areas: • Provide sidewalks as growth occurs. This minimizes the cost to the City, but results in reduced comfort and safety for pedestrians over the short-term and also limits pedestrian access to these areas. • Construct temporary sidewalks. This involves constructing lower cost, temporary sidewalks within the road right-of-way to provide separation for pedestrians, typically using asphalt. This results in moderate to high cost for the City and a lower quality of pedestrian facility, but at least ensures there is a pedestrian facility in place, although it may not be continuous. • Provide ultimate sidewalk. This provides separation for pedestrians as development progresses of a full sidewalk standard, including meeting minimum standards for sidewalks and concrete construction. This results in a higher capital and property cost and may require land acquisition. Among these strategies, it is recommended that the City examine the potential for temporary shoulder widenings or separated pathways to pedestrians from traffic on arterial and collector roads as growth occurs. This should consist of a flexible design around existing constraints and integrate with equestrian trails. It is also recommended that the City consider integrating bicycle and pedestrian facilities along shoulder areas were moderate amounts walking and cycling occur. This will ensure that these growth areas can support active transportation choices. 5.2.3 Enhanced Treatments in the Town Centre As noted previously, the Town Centre supports a diverse mix of higher-density land uses that attract multi- purpose trips, where people can walk between several locations for a variety of needs, such as work, shopping, or day-to-day business. The City has made significant efforts in recent years in improving the walkability of the Town Centre area, with specific emphasis on improvements on 224 Street. The City should continue to focus on enhancing the pedestrian realm in the Town Centre in addition to the provision of sidewalks noted above. Streetscape and pedestrian realm enhancements should be considered on additional corridors =� ��,.�.n � , � throughout the Town Centre, including Lougheed Highway, Dewdney Trunk Road, 222 Street, 223 Street, 226 Street, 119 Avenue, Edge Street, and Selkirk Avenue. Building upon the OCP Town Centre Area Plan, features that should be considered in the Town Centre include: • Boulevards between the curb and sidewalk. Adjacent to commercial uses, sidewalks should generally extend from the curb to the property line/building face to maximize pedestrian space and to accommodate other amenities, such as street furniture and bicycle parking that can comfortably accommodate demands and do not interfere with walking aids. Street trees may be incorporated into the sidewalks with high pedestrian demands and October 2014 Page 71 * •F � City of Maple Ridge f Strategic Transportation Plan where parking does not provide a buffer between the road and sidewalk, as street trees can play an important role in increasing pedestrian comfort and safety. • Street furniture and other pedestrian amenities outside of the travelled portion of the sidewalk are essential to making people places and creating environments within the Town Centre that are comfortable and interesting for pedestrians. • Enhanced wayfinding to guide people to and around the Town Centre. Enhanced wayfinding signage can benefit residents and visitors, to help orient pedestrians to key destinations and commercial areas within the Town Centre. Enhanced signage also benefits all users, and helps to ensure a sense of place at key destinations. Signage standards may support a theme, and should be designed to meet the needs of visually impaired. • Accessible bus stops consistent with TransLink's design guidelines will be implemented to enhance comfort of all transit passengers and to ensure accessibility for all customers. • Street lighting to ensure pedestrian comfort as well as safety and security at all times of day. Street lighting can also be designed to support a particular theme for a given area. • Pedestrian safety will be enhanced with greater application of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) audits and design practices. 5.2.4 Safer Crossings Improving the safety and visibility of crossings is an important way to improve walkability and enhance conditions for pedestrians. The potential range of crossing treatments should be considered in all key activity areas, however more extensive crossing treatments should be considered for major pedestrian destinations such as the Town Centre / WCE and Key Employment Area Precincts, and more modest treatments in the Schools & Parks Precincts. The range of crossing treatments include: • Narrower crossings using curb extensions, bus bulges, and median islands wherever feasible in pedestrian precincts. Curb extensions extend the sidewalk across the curbside parking lane. They benefit pedestrians by improving visibility and reducing crossing distances. They also offer opportunities for pedestrian amenities, such as landscaping and benches. • Enhanced crosswalk treatments may include flashing lights which are activated by pedestrians. The flashing lights alert motorists that pedestrians are crossing, and increase visibility of the crosswalk. A flashing light treatment offers advantages over a signalized pedestrian crossing, as there is no delay for pedestrians waiting to cross, and delays to motorists are minimized because as soon as pedestrians clear the crosswalk vehicles can proceed. The City should follow guidance within the TAC Pedestrian Crossing Control Guide to determine when enhanced crossings are warranted. • Accessible pedestrian signals at signalized intersections are increasingly being used and desired in high pedestrian areas to assist pedestrians with disabilities Research has shown that these treatments October 2014 Page 72 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan provide a higher degree of confidence to pedestrians crossing major streets and have generally received positive support among all age groups. Countdown timers at key intersections to provide timing information to all users. Curb letdowns at all intersections. Where possible, separate curb letdowns should be properly aligned with crosswalks. Designs which incorporate a single ramp that is positioned between the crosswalks will also be considered depending on the intersection configuration. 5.2.5 Support Programs It is not enough to simply provide pedestrian infrastructure, as programs must also be in place to encourage people to walk in Maple Ridge. Education is a considered a`soft' measure for promoting walking, as it involves no engineered features or design mechanisms, but involves promoting awareness and informational material about walking in the community. Education initiatives can include providing information promoting alternative modes of transportation, local walking networks (such as trail maps that show recommended routes and facilities), and programs that teach road safety skills. In addition, with a relatively compact Town Centre, education and awareness initiatives by the City can emphasize this fact to encourage residents to walk for trips to, from, and within the Town Centre. Often, supportive programming targeted at walking is combined with information for cycling, as the two modes provide alternatives to driving for short-distance and local trips. Through spreading information and awareness about walking and cycling, the City can use cost- effective education initiatives to enable people to feel more safe and comfortable using active modes to get around, while encouraging increased use of pedestrian infrastructure and facilities. As such, specific support programs targeted at walking can include: • Walking Education & Awareness such as Safe Routes to School/Safer School Travel programming, partnerships i.e. ICBC, RCMP, and continuing to support and work with TransLink's TravelSmart Program. • Events: Host and/or promote events such as Open Streets / Sunday Street Closures, World Walking Day, iWalk, Move for Health, and Active Month • Parklets, converting on-street parking spaces into temporary public spaces as a way to bring people out on the streets and sidewalks, it can build community and engage residents and visitors in a fun urban design activity, i.e. within the Town Centre. _ _ _ , riorities The tables below summarize the sidewalk facilities that are recommended in the STP. The recommended improvements include preliminary capital costs for the sidewalk facilities, based on a unit cost of $150 per metre of sidewalk. This includes curb and sidewalk construction, but does not account for significant driveway rehabilitation or landscaping. October 2014 Page 73 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan The table also identifies needs-based priority for each treatment. As described in previously, the highest priority is assigned to addressing the sidewalk gaps on roads within pedestrian areas. A medium-term priority is given to sidewalks along bus routes, and the longer-term priority is assigned to gaps along collectors and arterials that are well outside of pedestrian areas and are not located along bus routes. The total cost to implement the sidewalk priorities is approximately $5.4 million as shown in the tables below. This includes approximately $1.5 million for sidewalks in pedestrian areas, $1.8 million for sidewalks along bus routes, and $2.1 million for sidewalks along other urban arterials and collectors. It should be noted that the ultimate cost of ineeting the City's sidewalk requirements would be much higher. These improvement priorities do not include sidewalks along local roads that are adjacent to schools, parks or community centres and the City should work to identify additional local road sidewalk priorities. The costs for constructing sidewalks are summarized below in Table 4 and detailed further in Appendix A. These costs do not include sidewalk construction on urban local roads (outside of pedestrian areas) and rural road walkways, as these are not identified as priorities and would be constructed over time as development opportunities occur. Pedestrian Areas Bus Route Sidewalks Table 4: Sidewalk Priorities � � $1.5 - $1.8 $1.5 $1.8 Urban Collector and Arterials " $2•1 $2.1 $1.5 $1.8 $2.1 $5.4 million Note: Costs are conceptual in nature (Class D) and are not typically used for budgeting purposes. They do not include any allowance for significant utility relocation, earthworks, driveway reconstruction, landscape restoration, property and legal cost. Recognizing the total capital investments required for cycling and pedestrian facilities identified in the MTP, the City may also consider strategies for integrating facilities for these modes in some areas in order to increase coverage in a shorter period of time and to managed resources. October 2014 Page 74 \ ��F. - � -��� � Chapter s Bicycle Network Plan. , �; � _ �� .�� 1 �� �� I�.' I r - �� ��r� r �A� �'' 1 � � - •` �', � "� � � ��� �� ' .a. „ � ,.� � � �� [j- �.�����dd�;:��.. • �'�� �. . � ' �+4 � ��� � "�'�— � :�y� ����_ k - � �_:: - . � . ,i.�� , �. -. _ � � '." f �_. ;_i,,� � .�: „ F a i�. �-- . e ��;��� � y: - • „ " .� r l ��s �J� l �A-�j .. � � •� �r 'c`hr� ��y � t ° a� y " ' ,�3i� -�..fy fi i -�, i . � .�,ry" , ' , •�s'a 1;����Ys�` � r�� r�� �•r � ' � • - . - . ',�r. ��. . ... . . � � ' � ' . . _, ,• � ' _ . . - � f� . •, f� ; � L, . . � - . _� '� F. j �� J . ! •I /i � , . . Y� f��Y� i., i 'r �� �y � � . , 1 . S./ 5 ! r .; � �'� , t �- L • , � . - . ��r � ✓ •.:�.� F . � • . - � .. :tfi _ �.�. !�1 i . . ti:� MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa Cycling in the City of Maple Ridge has gained increasing prominence over the past 20 years. Within the context of the transportation system, the role of the bicycle has changed dramatically. Once considered a vehicle predominantly used for leisure and recreation, the bicycle is now seen as a viable mode of transportation for many trip purposes, particularly those within the community. City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Developing a safe and comprehensive bicycle network is an important way to — support healthy lifestyles and to recognize the positive environmental aspects of cycling as a viable and attractive mode of transportation. Further, cycling is � an effective mode particularly for short-distance trips, but a range of facilities are required to support different cyclists' needs. As such, supporting cycling -- �� in and around Maple Ridge requires infrastructure and safety measures, such as bicycle lanes, trails, bicycle parking, and safe crossings, as well as support programs to encourage cycling. .,.� u,,.� ailer�` Over the past two decades, the joint Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Bicycle Advisory Committee has been actively advising on cycling issues and providing guidance on the implementation of city's bicycle network, based on previous plans developed in 1994 and 2004. Looking ahead, the City wants to ensure that investments in cycling facilities and programs continue to increase comfort and safety for people that may be interested in riding their bicycles to work, school and other travel. This section of the Plan examines some of the more significant influences that shape the bicycle plan as well as the challenges to increasing investments in cycling facilities. • Cycling makes up a small portion of the overall travel in the city today. Less than 1% of commute trips in Maple Ridge (i.e. trips to work) are by bicycle, according to the 2011 Canadian National Household Survey. TransLink's 2008 Regional Trip Diary Survey reported similar findings, stating that less than1% of all daily trips in Maple Ridge are by bicycle. The Trip Diary Survey also found that the majority of bicycle trips in Maple Ridge are made for going to and from work, followed by trips made to go to elementary or secondary school, and shopping. Nearly 75% of bicycle trips in the city are less than 5 kilometres in length, indicating short, local bicycle trips. The opportunity for the City is to focus on targeting shorter distance trips for cycling purposes, including shorter-distance trips that are currently made by automobile and that could be made by bicycle instead. In addition to focusing on short, local trips, the City should continue to focus on regional connections for longer-distance communing trips, particularly to communities to the west including Pitt Meadows and the Northeast Sector. October 2014 Page 76 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • The bicycle network in Maple Ridge includes a basic network of east-west and north-south bicycle routes. Maple Ridge's existing bicycle network consists of several east-west and north-south routes that provide access to the Town Centre and to surrounding neighbourhoods. North-south bicycle routes include 203 Avenue, Laity Street, 216 Street, 224 Avenue, and 240 Street. East-west bicycle routes include 123 Avenue, 124 Avenue, 122 Avenue, and 100 Avenue. The bicycle network also contains off- street pathways, which are used by both commuter and recreational cyclists. Although a basic network is in place to accommodate east-west travel across the municipality along with some north-south connections, there is an opportunity to provide increased network coverage. Research has shown that a dense bicycle network is required to make cycling an attractive option, so that cyclists can access routes quickly. A recent study found that cyclists are unlikely to detour more than about 400 metres to find a route with a bicycle facility. As such, a bicycle route network with facilities spaced at least every 500 metres should be the goal in urban areas where there is a desire to increase bicycle ridership. • The city's bicycle network can be comfortable for a broader range of the population. Research has shown that a significant segment of the population in Metro Vancouver is interested in cycling more often, but is concerned about the safety of cycling, particularly interacting with automobile traffic. This group, referred to as the "interested but concerned" segment of the population, would cycle more if comfortable facilities were provided, with a preference for off-street pathways, physically separated bicycle lanes, and bicycle routes on low volume street. The city's bicycle network is currently made up primarily of on-street bicycle lanes and shared road bikeways. Some of these have minimal or no separation between cyclists and vehicle traffic, requiring bicyclists to share the road with vehicles. The City can make cycling a more attractive transportation choice by focusing on developing more off-street pathways, separated bicycle lanes, and local street bikeways. • Existing bicycle facilities provide direct connections to other communities. As noted above, although the majority of bicycle trips are short distance trips, a significant proportion of Maple Ridge's bicycle trips are made for commuting to work, and involve travel beyond the city's boundaries. The Golden Ears Bridge opened up a major connection via its separated multi-use path, allowing cyclists to connect to the Township of Langley, City of Langley and the City of Surrey. For connections to Pitt Meadows, the shared routes along Lougheed Highway and Dewdney Trunk are currently the most direct route between the two municipalities, with less direct route options on Hammond Road, Golden Ears Way, and Old Dewdney Trunk. There is a need for the City to work with neighbouring municipalities and other agencies such as TransLink and MOTI to ensure regional bicycle connections are provided across municipal boundaries. • Bicycle-Transit Integration. All of TransLink's buses are equipped with bicycle racks on the front of busses, with a limit of two bicycles per bus. Bicycles are also allowed on the West Coast Express trains for a fee, with each train having tie-downs for two bicycles. There is an opportunity to provide enhanced bicycle parking at key transit stations and exchanges as deemed necessary. October 2014 Page 77 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • End of Trip Requirements. The City's Off-Street Parking and Loading Bylaw contains requirements for bicycle parking in the Town Centre, applicable to all properties in the area excluding heritage buildings, churches, and child care centres, as shown in Table 5. The bylaw distinguishes between short and long- term bicycle parking requirements. Short-term bicycle parking areas are typically at the main or public entrance to a building, suitable for visitors or patrons. Long-term bicycle parking requirements refer to secure storage facilities in buildings that are intended for resident or employee use. The City of Maple Ridge bicycle parking requirements are as follows: Table 5: Existing Bicycle Parking Requirements Townhouse, Rowhouses Low, Medium, High — Rise Residential Senior Independent Living / Assisted Living Care Facility Commercial / Office Use Hotel Institutional 6.2 Long-Term Bicycle Plan Storage provided inside individual units 1 per 4 units 0.1 space per unit 0.05 space per unit / room 1 per 750mz GFA 1 per 30 rooms 15%of required number of automobile spaces 3 spaces per 20 units 6 spaces per 20 units 2 spaces per 20 units 2 spaces per 20 units 6 spaces per 1,500 mz GFA 1 space per 20 rooms 6 spaces per 1,500 mz GFA The Bicycle Plan identifies the recommended long-term bicycle network throughout Maple Ridge. The Plan includes both on-street and off-street cycling facilities that will fill various gaps in the existing network, provide access to a range of community destinations and neighbourhoods, and Bicycle Plan Themes provide safe and comfortable connections. The Plan also provides . . .. .. . guidelines for bicycle facilities and signage, and identifies priorities for implementation. The Bicycle Plan focusses on connecting Maple Ridge • neighbourhoods with each other and the Town Centre. The City's OCP envisions the Town Centre as an area with increasing density and land use mix over � � time, and where more people will choose to walk, cycle or take transit to in the future. As such, the STP Bicycle Plan •�• -�- October 2014 Page 78 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan builds off the bicycle network envisioned in the OCP for the Town Centre area, and seeks to provide interconnected bicycle routes to surrounding neighbourhoods and destinations. The primary features of the long-term Bicycle Plan are described below. 6.2.1 Comfortable Facility Standards As noted previously, there is a significant opportunity to increase bicycle use by targeting improvements towards the segment of the population that may be interested in cycling more often, but is concerned about the safety of cycling. To attract these individuals, bicycle facilities should be safe and comfortable so bicyclists of all ages and abilities can feel safe using their bicycle for transportation. The Bicycle Plan includes a range of different bicycle facilities that can be considered under different conditions as described below: • Off-Street Pathways are physically separated from the roadway and are comfortable for the interested but concerned segment of the population. Examples in Maple Ridge include the paved pathway on the north side of Lougheed Highway (216 Street to Laity Street), the paved path parallel to Abernethy Way, 122 Avenue (216 Street to 222 Street) and on 227 Street (116 Avenue to Haney Bypass. Off-street pathways are generally intended to be shared among multiple users and should be designed to accommodate a range of types of users, with different trip purposes, speeds, and experience levels. This includes ensuring that off-street pathways are hard-surfaced, preferably using asphalt, to comfortably accommodate the range of users. Off-street pathways should be a minimum of 3.0 metres wide, and 4.0 metres or more in width in high-use areas. Off-street pathways can also have other amenities, including benches, lighting, and garbage cans. • Neighbourhood Bikeways are located on local streets with lower traffic volumes and speeds, and where cyclists and motor vehicles can comfortably share the road. Neighbourhood bikeways in Maple Ridge currently include 123 Avenue and 124 Avenue. These bikeways may be shared with traffic calming treatments to lower vehicle volumes and speeds and to improve the safety and comfort for cyclists sharing the road with motorists. Neighbourhood bikeways provide a broad level of appeal to a variety of cyclists, including commuter cyclists and less experienced cyclists (who may not be comfortable cycling on higher volume roads). For less experienced cyclists, neighbourhood bikeways can also serve as "stepping stone" facilities that help increase their comfort level using on-road facilities. October 2014 Page 79 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan As part of Neighbourhood Bikeways, shared use lanes �...�. may also be used as on-street bicycle facilities with a -,`. ,, � �,, shared bicycle and motor vehicle travel lane that includes . ',`�-' �� � %a �. signage and pavement markings to indicate where cyclists � J >� � t`, " -'f� i * - should position themselves in relation to the curb or ,; parked cars. Shared use lanes are typically located on arterial and collector roads with higher traffic volumes and ����� speeds, and where there is insufficient space to provide a painted bicycle lane. Shared use lanes should be a minimum 4.3 metres wide, which is 60 cm to 80 cm wider than a typical travel lane. This allows sufficient width for an automobile to safely overtake a bicycle, without crossing into the adjacent or oncoming travel lane. Shared use lanes should include "sharrow" markings, which consist of a bicycle stencil with chevron markings, to indicate to cyclists and motorists where cyclists should position themselves in the travel lane, and to raise awareness to motorists that they may expect to see cyclists. In general, many interested but concerned cyclists do not feel as comfortable on shared use lanes as compared to off-street pathways, bicycle lanes, or local street bikeways. As such, applications of shared use lanes should be limited to short sections where there are physical constraints that do not provide the space required for painted bicycle lanes, but where a facility is required for network connectivity and wayfinding purposes. • Painted Bicycle Lanes are separate travel lanes designated exclusively for bicycles. Painted bicycle lanes are typically located on arterial and collector � •F roads with higher traffic volumes and speeds. In �.�`' :. �'' "� `"-' Maple Ridge, bicycle lanes are on many north- .{`� .i. ��`'� ' '`r� � i t ♦ � south streets including 203 Avenue, 216 Street, �' . - �` , 232 Street, and Laity Street. Bicycle lanes in Maple �� - Ridge are located adjacent to motor vehicle travel �������� lanes, with bicycle flow usually one-way and ������ typically in the same direction as traffic. Some communities have placed bicycle lanes adjacent to curbside parking lanes. Bicycle lanes should be a minimum of 1.5 metres wide, with a desired width of 1.8 metres. Bicycle lanes are typically identified by signage and pavement markings along with a painted with a solid white line. On busier roadways with higher traffic volumes and speeds, the City may consider enhanced bicycle lane treatments, including buffered bicycle lanes with parked vehicles separating cyclists from traffic as well as physically separated bicycle lanes. October 2014 Page 80 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa � 2.0 m. 1.B m 5.�� 6 (E � '.l'A_Y. L4•:� • �� ,,iLf' � � , ,. � ' . � . City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan � � '� ' � � �t.. _ _ - r — r 2.2 irt 3.3 m. � �.3 m. 22 m. -.. 1.E m. 2.0 m. ��RR�'iG -a�'+�L � �ft::vEL v�v.;c.� E� CYC.E 3.�' _Fti= ! 4'!� T�:.Ci[ '1.'A! 1[ • Shoulder Bikeways are most appropriate for roadways that have higher motor vehicle traffic volumes and speeds and which are located on highways and roads without curbs and gutters. Similar to bicycle lanes, shoulder bikeways are separate travel lanes designated for the shared use of bicycles, separated from travel lanes by a painted line. In areas where adjacent ditches make it difficult to extend shoulders, separated pathways may be provided to manage costs and impacts. i i ♦ ♦ � �`. �� - ����� ����� 1y�;� These on and off-street bicycle facilities can be considered throughout the city, recognizing the different markets attracted to each type. As conceptually illustrated on the next page, each type of bicycle facility can be considered along a hierarchy based on user comfort. Facilities that are physically separated from vehicle traffic, such as off-street pathways and separated bicycle lanes, are the most comfortable and attractive to both existing and potential cyclists. The least comfortable facilities are shoulder bikeways (typically found on high-speed roads) and shared use lanes, which typically only the most confident cyclists feel safe using. October 2014 Page 81 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa Multi-Use Cycle Local Street Bicycle Pathways Track Bikeway Lane ,�� i � j �f�: \A� � �1 1 � i �K. � r �''�'" � � -"°`� % � n � �cl i aei.. _�.Y� a. � � �- � ^ —'- �l-+�!_"J�t' , -� J � ,- �� ��� r Off-Street 6.2.2 Network Plan Arterial Loc<�i. Roads Roads City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Less Comfortable Shoulder Bikeway . � — ? Shared Use Lane I�a4t;; „� �,� � _ - `� � '� � Arter'Eal &� ,� ��•,�� I,�.! & Arterial & Collector Roads Colle�for Roads Collector Roads The existing bicycle network in Maple Ridge has several important gaps, including a need for more east-west connections, improved access to rural areas and neighbourhoods, and more options to connect with the District of Pitt Meadows' bicycle network. The long-term Bicycle Plan identifies a comprehensive city-wide network of facilities that link local destinations throughout Maple Ridge as well as regional connections to surrounding municipalities. The recommended bicycle network plan has been developed based on previous plans identified in the 1994 Bikeways Plan and 2004 Transportation Plan. However, the network plan has been refined based on public input to provide increased emphasis on facilities that are more comfortable for the "interested but concerned" segments of population by including off-street pathways and local street bikeways. A number of guiding principles were considered in establishing the updated bicycle network plan. In particular, bicycle facilities must be direct and provide adequate connections to key destinations within the community, including connections to key commercial areas, schools, parks and community facilities. In addition, streets on which traffic volumes are lower and provide adequate width to safely accommodate cyclists were typically favoured over streets with higher traffic volumes or narrower width that would not provide the necessary space requirements for bicycle travel. In some cases, however, higher volume streets with adequate pavement width provided the only available link between two areas of the city. In these situations, appropriate measures were proposed to ensure that both cyclists and motorists would be able to share the roadway safely and effectively. Where the on-street bicycle network does not provide connections to some areas of the city, the off-street pathway network provides the necessary linkages. The bicycle network plan connects with or parallels both the Trans-Canada Trail within the built-up area of the city, and the equestrian trail network within the rural area of the community. The layout of the on-street bicycle network ensures that cyclists from almost all areas of the city can easily access a bicycle route. It is important to note, however, that the designation of a street as a bicycle route does not exclude the use of other streets by cyclists. In fact, all city roads should be considered bicycle streets, and all road users should be educated to share the road with each other in a safe manner. October 2014 Page 82 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Furthermore, when roads are upgraded to urban standard or widened, and when any new roads are constructed, bicycle facilities should be incorporated. The bicycle network plan described below identifies a broad framework of alignments for bicycle routes and does not identify site-specific improvements that may be required to effectively connect individual routes with each other and major destinations. Although alignments have been identified within the bicycle network plan, final route selection and design (including key connections and crossings) will be considered in greater detail through corridor specific strategies. The implementation of corridor-specific initiatives will offer more opportunities for members of the public, as well as the Bicycle Advisory Committee, to provide input on the city-wide cycling network. These routes, however, identify an optimal series of alignments for providing direct access to all areas of the city and other parts of the region. From this core network, the City can specifically address operation and design issues through subsequent bicycle facility design to complete the on-street bicycle network — in coordination with off-street facilities — and maximize connections to major destinations. The existing and proposed bicycle network in Maple Ridge is shown in Map 24 and described in further detail below. • Off-Street Pathways are primarily recommended to address network gaps, to provide more comfortable east-west routes through Maple Ridge. 132 Avenue. A Corridor Management Study for 132 Avenue identified a long-term plan for 3m multi- use pathway, between 232 Street and 216 Street. The pathway is to be separated from the roadway by a 0.5 m buffer, and is intended to accommodate cyclists, pedestrians, and equestrians. While surface material is yet to be determined, road cyclists may also choose to use the road if the pathway is not paved. The City will be constructing a crushed-gravel pathway along the general alignment of the future pathway, to accommodate users in the interim. Lougheed Highway. The primary off-street pathway connection is proposed along Lougheed Highway, extending between 216 Street and Haney Bypass. The MoTI and City recently constructed a 650m off-street pathway on the north side of Lougheed Highway between Laity Street and 216 Street. This off-street pathway forms a critical link, enhancing east/west connectivity for cyclists through the existing neighborhood cycle routes on 117 Avenue. The City should work with MOTI to consider the extension of this off-street pathway further east on Lougheed Highway to the urban centre of Maple Ridge. 128 Avenue / Abernethy Way. An extension of the pathway along Abernethy Way can provide a continuous cycling route across Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, providing an attractive alternative to cycling on Lougheed Highway. Currently, an interim off-street pathway already exists on the north side of Abernethy Way between 224 Street and 232 Street. A 3km extension of this pathway westward to 210 Street along 128 Avenue can provide a continuous connection, and link into the existing bicycle lane at the west end of the corridor. The City intends to provide an interim pathway before final completion. This connection also would link up to several north-south bicycle routes, providing access to the Haney-Hammond area and to the Silver Valley area. October 2014 Page 83 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Co-Lurnhfa Map 24: Long-Term Bicycle Network City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan N City of , �istrict of ' y� �' � � � ' � ; �a�im �a;.��Q ,; �I �; � � , —� � � , , I � _ � J � 1 1 I, ' � ! � ; G{eS i 1 � oewdneyrrunkRd i —1 ' ' � : <� � ; r-- ;-- ; Fe �; : -- � I � � �j LougheedHwy � � � � '�"' + �., �r� � 132JAv� ` � 132 Ave [j: ___� N' '.` + •.� ' ,.,....,��._....�_,.,._ � � ��� ; � ; �,; •. , �. �. ; , �. ------- ; � � ----} , a, - -, � � - , _ , _ - � � 128 Ave_ N� _ � •+� ,,'. �;•' � F, ��,, "��� � N �_L _ __��n.e�em` ` �����N 1 , I lt,y �, ` � � VI � � � � I e� �r` ,\ r � ; � � �, I y � � r .�,y'HY . > Q �� B I 4 � J N � � � 124 Ave Town Centre Inset'�;°a.�. ,�, � � o � I � '. � ; �' � � Q � p � �I N � J� � I�' � Dewdney Trunk Rd � '�_________ N___________________Dewdney Trunk Rd %I �,_.,,, p � See � — . � � r------------- �--" � ; �--ti-a_q��_,_ Lougheed_Hv�yTawn Centre� � � � � , E�. � , . I � " � � �,� ; � '`. Inset�•� _ � � � � ;` � � � O Rd �` �-� i�� � ; ` � ' I O� Qj�er •� ,� N � `*� � � �� N �♦ \ J � _, y ' '���.�'� � ,�`_ ; �122 Ave,•. ' � 112_Ave__% � I : �,,.. . a • � - 1------ � � '- ---'-------• �---�--- . • ` - � __p-.__ � , ; , � ` , _ ' '' ,,` ' + N I I ` ' � ` � � � `i �` � ..� �..^���'����"J I � � � � � � � � i � � ! I Bicycle Facilities `' � %� ,;,� ; '� � ` '------ �-� � � � � r rv� � Existing Proposed '.� � 102 Ave : N� „� I � . � � '�, d ', ioo ave ' ' Bike Lane - - - � �' ' � `�-----�--------------------------• � 00� ' r �_...---' `„� i Neighbourhood 8ikeway � �` -- � :�� � � Key Commercial Area � � Paved Shoulder - - - `,' �o � � � . � �, � Elementar School ,�''-"' ''UghPe`� N � � Separated Path --- Y -- wy r_a___. -----------� -----_--- TBD* - - - 0 Secondary Schonl �'y �� � ' . y CTS��I. *- Pending results oftha Corridor Management5trategy. Pdfk ���� Y October 2014 Page 84 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Ospring Street / South Bonson. An off-street pathway is recommended to connect between Ospring Street in Hammond to South Bonson in Pitt Meadows. There are already informal pathways in this area adjacent to the Golden Ears Bridge; however the Golden Ears Bridge prevents complete connectivity between these two nearby neighbourhoods. Establishing an east-west pathway can facilitate connectivity for cyclists between south Maple Ridge and south Pitt Meadows and can allow cyclists in these areas an alternate access to Airport Way. 128 / 210 Street Dyke Trail. Currently an existing gravel trail along the dyke connects between 128 Ave and 210 Street. Future consideration should include enhancing this existing trail through the provision of a paved surface. • Neighbourhood Bikeways. The majority of proposed bicycle network improvements are in the form of neighbourhood bikeways, which are low cost and low-traffic routes designed to connect the city's residential neighbourhoods to each other and to key destinations in the Town Centre. � Skillen Street / Wicklund Avenue bikeway, provides a 1.2km alternate route off the 123�d Avenue bikeway, providing access to Westview Secondary School and Westview Park, connecting with the bicycle lane on Laity Street. Foreman Drive bikeway, between 136 Avenue and 232 Street provides a 1.4 km bicycle route within the heart of Silver Valley's residential neighbourhoods. 105 Avenue / Tamarack Lane bikeway provides a 2.2km key link and alternate route to Lougheed for cyclists through the Albion area. With future development anticipated in southeast Maple Ridge this route can facilitate cyclists to connect between neighbourhoods in the south and the Town Centre. 236 Street / Creekside Street is identified as a bikeway to connect Kanaka Way to Dewdney Trunk Road in the north. This provides a quieter alternative to 240 Street and connects directly to both Kanaka Creek Elementary and Alexander Robinson Elementary schools. � 227 Street north of Abernethy Way is identified as a neighbourhood bikeway to connect between the proposed bicycle lanes in the south to the bicycle facilities on 128 Avenue in the north. � Town Centre Bikeways. Several neighbourhood bikeways are proposed in the city's Town Centre to provide frequent and low-stress connections between the adjacent residential neighbourhoods and the centre. Bikeways in the Town Centre are spaced approximately every 400-500m to provide a higher degree of access to the bicycle network. Some of the primary bikeways in the Town Centre include: October 2014 Page 85 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan - 116 Avenue between Haney Bypass and Lougheed Highway is recommended as a bikeway, to provide a low-stress east-west route, and to connect the low to medium density residential neighbourhoods in the south to the Town Centre. Bisected by north-south bikeways on 224 Street and 227 Street, this route on 116t'' Ave forms the southern edge of the bikeway grid around the Town Centre. - 224 Street south of Dewdney Trunk Road is identified as bikeway to bring the north-south bicycle link on 224 Street as far south as Haney Bypass. Previous streetscaping improvements along this corridor have resulted in a more calmed traffic environment, with a combination of ineasures such as landscaped boulevards, street trees, wider sidewalks, and curb extensions creating a`slow zone' effect. As 224 Avenue supports many services and amenities of the Town Centre, providing cyclists a facility on this corridor can improve the ease and convenience of accessing key destinations by bicycle in Maple Ridge. - 227 Street to connect to Haney Bypass, allowing users to make a complete north-south connection between Haney Bypass to 128 Ave in the north. 227 Street is a bikeway in the southern residential neighbourhoods, and transitions to a bicycle lane through the Town Centre, and then reverts back to a bikeway north of Abernethy Way. - Selkirk Avenue bikeway provides an east-west route and transitions from a primarily residential neighbourhood to a service road for commercial destinations within the Town Centre, providing convenient access to many Town Centre services and amenities. • Bicycle lanes have the benefit of providing a higher degree of separation between cyclists and motorists than bikeways, while still providing direct on-street links between residential areas, community destinations, and commercial services and amenities throughout Maple Ridge. Bicycle lanes are proposed on city roads including: � 124 Avenue, east of 232 Street, to bring an extension of the Abernethy Way bicycle facilities further east. This facility would be contingent on if future development activity on 124 Avenue would provide a roadway to connect 124 Street to 237 Street. . 207 Street, south of Lougheed Highway provides a north-south route though Hammond and Haney in addition to the 203�d Street bike lanes. This route directly provides cyclists access to key destinations such as Hammond Stadium, Hammond Community Centre, and also Maple Ridge Elementary School on River Road. , 232 Street between Abernethy Way and 116t" Avenue bisects many east-west routes and enhances network connectivity between the areas of Yennadon, the Town Centre, and Kanaka Creek. South of Abernethy Street, the 232 Street corridor has an elementary school, secondary school, recreational club, and a church, and a dedicated bicycle facility can allow a more comfortable connection for cyclists traveling north to south through east Maple Ridge. October 2014 Page 86 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan � Kanaka Way provides an east-west link between 240 Street and Lougheed Highway, connecting the bicycle facilities on each of these corridors, and providing access to Kanaka Creek Elementary School. • Shoulder bikeways are proposed for several rural roads within the city. There are numerous rural roadways throughout the city that should accommodate cyclists, including Dewdney Trunk Road east of 256 Street, 256 Street, 272 Street, 280 Street, 100 Avenue, 240 Street, 112 Avenue, and Lougheed Highway, among others. These routes are attractive for both commuting and recreational cycling because they tend to be less busy and more scenic than urban roads. In most cases, shoulder bikeways are the most appropriate treatment for accommodating cyclists. It is recognized that widening all of the identified roadways to accommodate 1.5-m (posted speed less than 70 kph and daily traffic less than 5,000) or 2.0-m (posted speed 70 kph or higher and daily traffic in excess of 5,000) shoulder bikeways would require significant capital and that the City would likely develop this network of rural bicycle facilities over a longer period of time. Where significant ditches restrict the widening of shoulders — such as along 240�'' Street and 216t'' Street north as well as 232"d Street, separated pathways may be considered as an alternative to shoulder bikeways as previously indicated. Ultimately, these shoulder bikeways and pathways create a large grid of routes for cyclists in rural areas, capitalizing on the main spines in Maple Ridge's rural road network. When complete, the city's bicycle network would more than grow from approximately 35 km today, to 160 km upon full build out. This includes approximately 40 km of facilities within urban areas and approximately 80km of shoulder bikeways in rural areas of Maple Ridge (to be developed in the long-term). These improvements are detailed in Table 6 and in Map 23. Table 6: Bicycle Network Improvements - . : illil - - Existing (km) Proposed (km) Total (km) Off-street pathways Local street bikeways Bicycle lanes Shoulder bikeways (widening required) TOTAL 4 16 16 0.5 36 6.5 22 15 80 124 10 36 32 81 159 October 2014 Page 87 * •F � City of Maple Ridge f Strategic Transportation Plan 6.2.3 Crossings While bicyclists tend to cross in many of the same areas as pedestrians, there are less cyclist crossing features currently available in Maple Ridge. Crossings improvements that can enhance the safety and comfort for cyclists include: • Bicycle Boxes. These can be used at signalized intersections to provide cyclists an opportunity to proceed through the intersection when the signals turn green in advance of vehicles. This reduces conflicts between cyclists and motorists and improves safety for cyclists. Bike boxes are beneficial where cyclists turn left from a traffic lane shared with left- turning and through traffic, and where cyclists travel straight through an intersection in a traffic lane shared with through and right-turning traffic. Green is the preferred colour to be used, and the standard surfacing material is methacrylate anti-skid. • Enhanced Pavement Markings. Bicycle lane markings intersections to guide cyclists through these locations and to alert motorists to the presence of a bicycle route through the intersection. Bicycle lane markings are dashed through the intersection to connect with the far-side bicycle lane, either in through movements or left-turning movements. Coloured bicycle lanes can be used at intersections to position cyclists appropriately with respect to other traffic, especially right turning vehicles and motorists, and to highlight the area of potential conflicts. As with bicycle boxes, green is the preferred colour to be used for pavement markings, along with thermoplastic material. may be provided through complex • Bicycle detection at signalized intersections. Bicycles should be able to active a traffic signal using a range of technologies, such as bicycle loop detectors, bicycle pushbuttons, or video detection at traffic signals. If bicycle loop detectors are used, they should be marked so that cyclists know where to position their bicycles to activate the detector. In many cases, the same detector that is used for automobiles can be used for bicycles. At intersection with bicycle lanes, additional detectors may be required in the bicycle lane. October 2014 Page 88 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa 6.2.4 Support Strategies City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan In addition to providing a complete, comfortable, connected network of bicycle facilities with attractive crossings, support facilities are required to make cycling more convenient. Similarly, support programs are required to spread awareness about the bicycle network and educate people on cycling skills and road safety. • Advisory Committee. The joint Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC) had been in place since 1997, with the main task of implementing the recommendations of the 1994 Bikeways Plan although it was disbanded in 2013. Looking ahead, the City may consider the ongoing role of an advisory committee that is also connected to other transportation matters in the City. • Bicycle Parking. Every bicycle trip requires bicycle parking at the destination. The fear of theft or vandalism is a significant deterrent to cycling, as is the lack of bicycle parking altogether. Thus, the provision of safe and secure parking at key locations throughout the city is an important way to encourage cycling, and has the added benefit of being cost-effective and a positive "quick win". A mix of both short and long-term bicycle parking facilities should be available. Short-term bicycle parking is where bicycles are left for shorter time periods, such as a few minutes or hours. This type of parking involves a high degree of convenience, with racks situated as close to destinations as possible. Long-term bicycle parking is needed when bicycles will be left for longer periods of time, such as for the duration of an entire work day, or overnight. This type of parking requires a high degree of security and weather protection, with well-designed racks in covered areas, lockers, storage rooms, or fenced areas with restricted access. Additional and/or improved bicycle parking is recommended in both private and public realm areas of Maple Ridge including the Town Centre, Lougheed Highway commercial areas, the transit exchange, civic facilities and spaces, schools, parks, and trailheads. In the public realm, the City can work to implement bicycle parking where possible within the road right-of-way. This can take place either on sidewalks, while ensuring that sufficient clear width is provided for pedestrians or on-street by considering replacing an on-street motor vehicle parking stall with an on-street bicycle corral. For bicycle parking within the private realm, the City's Off-Street Parking and Loading Bylaw contains bicycle parking requirements for Town Centre developments. It is f important to explore opportunities for additional bicycle parking in private ��i developments outside of the Town Centre when possible, especially in � � high activity areas and key cycling destinations. In most cases, long-term parking facilities at employment centers are provided by employers, ., -���- whereas at transit facilities they are provided by TransLink. ' Therefore, the City must work with these other agencies to encourage the development of bicycle parking at these employment centers, transit ''' stations and bus exchanges. � � ` � � • Wayfinding is an important feature to integrate into the city's network to improve conditions for cyclists. Signage is a relatively cheap and effective measure to make cycling more convenient and comfortable, through the provision of simple and consistent signs and wayfinding to assist cyclists navigating to their destination. Signage is especially important to make cycling more attractive and October 2014 Page 89 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan convenient for two distinct types of cyclists, including the inexperienced cyclist who requires information about how to make their cycling journey, and experienced cyclists who could ride further and more often if better information is provided on route options. A clear sign and wayfinding system can benefit cyclists through guiding them off heavy traffic routes and onto alternative, lower-volume routes, can prevent cyclists from making a wrong turn and wasting time, and can help cyclists keep momentum and make smooth manoeuvres. Wayfinding can include direction signs, confirmation signs, and turn signs. TransLink, recently released Regional Bicycle Wayfinding Guidelines for Metro Vancouver, which provide a clear direction on how to approach signage and wayfinding, and it is recommended that wayfinding approaches in the city align with these guidelines. • Support Programs. In addition to bicycle infrastructure development, the City should also promote or have supportive programs for cyclists. This can include a range of educational and promotional initiatives such as: Continued promotion and support of Bike to Work Week & Month and TransLink's TravelSmart program; Developing a bicycle user map and informational materials; Implementing Ciclovia / Sunday Street Closures; Encouraging cycling skills and education courses (i.e. encourage cycling skills incorporation into school curriculum, promotion of training courses); Create cycling campaigns aimed at City employees (which can include lending out bicycles, electrical-assist bicycles, information on cycling network); and Safe routes to school / School Safer Travel Programs. 6.3 C � �• The conceptual capital costs for the bicycle network plan were developed based on standard unit cost assumptions summarized in Table 7 below. Table 7— Unit Capital Cost Assumptions Bicycle Lane (no widening required) Paved Shoulder (widening required) Local bikeway (new route) Off-Street Pathway (new route) $30,000/km $300,000/km $40,000/km $500,000/km Table 8 on the following pages highlights the individual project segment costs as well as the overall priorities for implementing bicycle facilities. It should be noted that the actual cost for the implementation of bicycle facilities could vary significantly for each project, depending on various site-specific characteristics. For example, the unit costs stated above allow for sub-base and base construction, as well as asphalt pavement, and they also include contingency and an allowance for engineering. For urban cross-sections, they also include the cost to relocate curbs and sidewalks. However, the unit costs do not include any allowance for significant earthworks, driveway reconstruction, landscape restoration, property and legal October 2014 Page 90 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan costs, significant utility relocation, administration, and taxes, all of which could add significantly to the cost. These unit costs also do not include any allowances for crossing treatments, such as signals and/or median refuges. As such, the cost estimates provided in this section are for planning purposes only and should not be used for detailed budgeting. Priorities are also assigned to bicycle facility projects for implementation in the short, medium or long-term. Short-term priorities have been identified as all neighbourhood bikeways and bicycle lane projects that directly serve the Town Centre. Short-term implementation indicates a horizon of approximately 1- 5 years, and it is estimated that the highest priority projects for implementation in Maple Ridge over the short-term would cost approximately $1.0 million, as shown in Table 8. This is equivalent to an annual investment of approximately $200,000 over the next 5 years. Medium-term priorities are identified as bicycle lanes outside of the Town Centre, and longer-term priorities are identified as all rural shoulder bikeways. Order-of-magnitude cost estimates have been developed for the long-term bicycle network based on unit costs and are summarized in Table 8 below. The total cost to complete the long-term bicycle network is approximately $24 million. It should be noted that more than $15 million of this amount is for rural roadway shoulder widenings in the eastern areas of the city. Although these facilities could potentially be incorporated into any road rehabilitation project, investments in these facilities would be likely tied to any growth in the eastern areas of Maple Ridge which is not planned within the next 20 years. Excluding the paved shoulders in the eastern areas of the city, the total cost to implement the urban bicycle network is approximately $8.8 million over the next 20 years. Additional details on bicycle network are provided in Appendix B. Table 8: Bicycle Network Cost Estimates ($ million) Bicycle Lane $0. 1 Paved Shoulder - Local bikeway $0.9 Off-Street Pathway - TOTAL $1.0 $0.2 - - $4.6 $15.2 $3.0 - $3.2 $4.6 $15.2 $0.3 $19.8 $0.9 $3.0 $24.0 Million Note: Costs are conceptual in nature (Class D) and are not typically used for budgeting purposes. They do not include any allowance for significant utility relocation, earthworks, driveway reconstruction, landscape restoration, property and legal cost. It should be noted at the time of preparing the Plan, that TransLink has been funding 50% of most bicycle projects on the Major Road Network and some municipal arterial and collector roads. Recognizing the total capital investments required for cycling and pedestrian facilities identified in the MTP, the City may also consider strategies for integrating pedestrian and bicycle facilities as well as on road widening projects in order to increase coverage in a shorter period of time and to managed financial resources. October 2014 Page 91 .. . -�� , � ._ \ � ____�-T. � _ �y Chapter 7 ,� - ��-,�� Transit Strate �y ,, � �yr _ � . a. ii�"': .. .� ,. _ :�,r � •� � . : # ;.:,:� i t_ � �, , , - ! , + r .�� � , `\� • , r ` ��''' � � � � f�( ' �' � ' ` ' `: ' `�� �, v y; " j- � `, � � ` t i'� �,*t ` _ j ' `� ��. . _ �� , . � � � -`� ,` . � ,�. '> �� � .� � � �, � � 3!? . � i ;+� �' r • { ` :4 ; '�. ` ' - . ' _ 'e . 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'�"; e �i MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Public transit provides not only a travel choice for local and inter-municipal travel, but can also shape land use patterns. For those who do not drive, transit may be the only option for getting to jobs, school, shopping areas and recreational centres. Whereas choice riders that have access to a vehicle will be more inclined to use transit where service is frequent, direct, fast, comfortable and reliable. The existing transit system in Maple Ridge is made up of a variety of transit services that provide both local and regional connections for Maple Ridge residents (see Map 25 below). The types of transit service in the city include: • Local service, providing fixed-route local area service within the city. The majority of local routes in the city are served by community shuttle vehicles suitable for local, neighbourhood streets. • Regional service, such as the Frequent Transit Network, provides fixed-route service using conventional buses within Maple Ridge and connecting to surrounding municipalities such as Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, and the Langleys. • HandyDART provides door-to-door custom transit service for people with physical or cognitive disabilities who are unable to use the conventional system. • West Coast Express commuter rail service provides Maple Ridge residents with service between Vancouver and Mission. With two stations in Maple Ridge (Port Haney and Maple Meadows) West Coast Express runs only Monday to Friday during peak hours, in the peak direction only. TrainBus, a supplemental coach bus service to the West Coast Express, runs at select times outside of peak hours, emulating the train route and serving all West Coast Express stations. ''' F P " There are several factors that shape the success of transit in Maple Ridge as briefly highlighted in this section of the Plan. • The transit mode share for Maple Ridge is relatively low at 4% of all daily travel (based on the Regional Trip Diary Survey). The majority of transit trips originating in Maple Ridge have a destination in the City of Vancouver (37%), with other major destinations including Burnaby (10%), Pitt Meadows (8%), and Coquitlam (6%). The 2006 Census report indicate that 8% of all work-based commute trips from Maple Ridge are by transit. Similarly, the 2011 National Household Survey indicates a slight increase with 9% of trips to work from Maple Ridge made on transit. Of the daily transit trips originating in Maple Ridge, over half (52%) are by bus (conventional bus and/or community shuttle), with the remainder of transit trips on West Coast Express. October 2014 Page 93 � F � � " ity of � " '.`_^ ..- -� �. .�.� �. � t __l �� � � � � � Map 25: Existing Transit Service Structure 132�0.�e 132 Ave r— � � � 128 A�e N � N � r- y ¢ 123 A�e J N 124 Ave � ^� lZ2 AVe � f� � Lougheed Hwy i� � n R�� O � N 1 � � West Coast Express Frequent Transit Network Regular 6us Cornmunity 5huttle 0 7ransit Exchange QiStri�t Qf SeS IVtaple Ridge G Fet� H �n N N m � 1�1 N DBwdn�y Trunk Rd H v, O N i12 Aue 1�4 Ave 102 Ave 1�0 Ave 12� A�e � V � �oughP�d rywY F' - �tlti�>>.I�12rCY N rv r N City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Qewdney Trunk Rd 112 AV2' V1 � � 0 � October 2014 Page 94 _ * •F � City of Maple Ridge f Strategic Transportation Plan • Network Structure and coverage within the core area of the city is effective. Transit in Maple Ridge generally has an east-west service structure, with Dewdney Trunk Road (and Lougheed Highway to a lesser extent) as the spine of the network. The transit system is largely concentrated in the Town Centre area and neighbourhoods south of Dewdney Trunk Road (see Map 26). Community shuttle routes serve neighbourhoods north and south of Dewdney Trunk Road. There are transit connections to the West Coast Express stations, Ridge Meadows Hospital, Meadowtown (in Pitt Meadows), and the neighbourhoods of Albion and Cottonwoods. The most northern reach of transit service in Maple Ridge is the Yennadon Loop, just west of 232 Street. In September 2012, TransLink made service changes to the 595 bus route, eliminating service to Port Haney Station, requiring passengers to transfer. This was also accompanied with a service extension to Route 701, which was extended east along Dewdney Trunk road, instead of terminating at Haney Place. Map 26: Key Land Use Patterns around Frequent Transit Service ` � � � ��aY�_ � ]a� n�P � n r.�.., � � r n+ ti ' ;.� �?+ �ra n�a� �,. �` � i:� � � — —� � .� .�, 1 � ,,., a�, I in n,. r— V, I:: s�� i�`�' •� • •� _' i ' : i,! � I',�,p..l�ii ° L � � • • • • �� • • •-• �M •� � � • „ \, ��;.�r��,� f � t � i _ _� � l ` - Hy i � L r � l. � '.a I �i� I 11r: � �— West Coast Express • Frequent Transit Network --�—• Bus Route + I �` : , i / � 'i . of La���; C Transit Exchange Property Within Bus Walkshed (400m From Bus Stopj Property Within FTN Walkshed (400m From FTN Bus StopJ Property Within WCE Wal&shed '•' ` (800m From SkyTrain Station} 11.' .t�. Hil BOSonWo��h • Land use patterns, such as type, density, and form influence the overall pattern of travel in a region and also the success of transit. For example, higher density mixed-use areas such as the downtown area in Maple Ridge can generate more transit ridership, which supports attractive levels of service. Conversely, low-density and single-use areas with curvilinear street patterns such as found in October 2014 Page 95 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan the Silver Valley neighbourhood typically generate single-purpose trip making and increased travel times. These characteristics make transit more costly to provide and generate low ridership, which can discourage providing high frequency service and use of transit overall. Outside the core areas of Maple Ridge, residents identified concerns regarding limited network coverage and frequency of transit service in areas such as Silver Valley. Alternative service models may be considered for low density, suburban neighbourhoods of the city in order to encourage early use of transit for growing populations. • Peak service frequencies can be modest along many corridors. Bus service in Maple Ridge is provided seven days a week, with regular bus service typically commencing early in the morning (typically between 5:00 am — 6:00 am) and continuing to early evening, with a few routes providing evening service. Headways during peak hours are generally between 15 and 30 minutes for conventional service, while more than 30 minutes for community shuttle routes, with headways increasing in evenings and on weekends. Dewdney Trunk Road is part of TransLink's Frequent Transit Network, which indicates that it has transit service every 15 minutes or better at most times seven days a week. The West Coast Express only has service Monday to Friday, during the morning and afternoon peaks, with the TrainBus service providing a few off-peak runs. 27 illustrates the typical transit frequencies for regular bus and rail routes serving Maple Ridge. • Transit ridership is largely concentrated in the core areas of the city. As noted previously, several conventional bus and community shuttle routes converge at these exchanges, with the Haney Place exchange as the central hub for residents in both east and west Maple Ridge. Transit usage, as reported by estimates of daily boardings and alightings, is highest at the Haney Place and Maple Meadows transit exchanges, which experience approximately 1,000 boardings and alightings per day, as shown in Map 28. It is clear that Dewdney Trunk Road is the spine of the city's transit network, as ridership activity is most active along this corridor, with smaller scale transit activity in the neighbourhoods north and south of Dewdney Trunk. October 2014 Page 96 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa Map 27: Existing Transit Service Frequencies � City of � ��itt Meadows---� I Qy _ 1 `` � — — Fe�° � � ]32IAve 132 Ave rv r — �; :� I 328 Ave ,� � r I � w ! _ � r N � 124 Ave � l24 Ave I 123 Ave � m - � � 122 Ave rv pewd�ey TrUnk Rd i° Lougheed Hwy ^4 Ri�er Ad � a 112 Ave Il PM Peak Frequency � < 15 Minutes — 15 - 3Q Minutes — 30-45 Minutes — 45 - 60 Minutes — > 60 Minutes C Transit Exchange City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan � . _ � - � 100 pve CoyBhep� HN'Y ��'n`�'r I2in�r District of Maple Ridge Map 28: Daily Transit Passenger Boardings and Alightings by Stop �ewdnev Trunk Rd 112 Ave / v`i rv October 2014 Page 97 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan • Transit Accessibility. TransLink tracks the accessibility of all bus stops in Maple Ridge as well as other communities in Metro Vancouver. An accessible bus stop is identified by a wheelchair accessible decal on the bus stop ID sign or bus stop plate. In order for a stop to be designated as wheelchair accessible, it must meet requirements specified under TransLink's Transit Infrastructure Design Guidelines. These include raised passenger landing area with specific minimum dimensions that would allow busses in the current fleet to safely deploy a mechanical ramp or lift that drops from the bus front or rear door to allow wheelchair patrons to board or alight busses. At the end of 2012, approximately 50% (150 out of 306) of the bus stops in Maple Ridge were classified as accessible. Passenger comfort and security at transit stops is an important ingredient to make transit an attractive alternative to driving. Amenities such as seating, weather protection shelters, lighting, customer information and other amenities are required to make transit more attractive. Transit stops with the highest passenger activity — such as along the Dewdney Trunk corridor — should be the focus of transit supportive investments in the city. � Through the results of the online survey and the booth held at the Farmers Market, Maple Ridge residents were able to provide input and feedback on transportation issues and opportunities. In addition to the above noted shaping influences, residents also identified other barriers to using transit that include: • Limited West Coast Express service, only serving peak hour, weekday demands; • Overcrowding on the West Coast Express; • Lack of a park-and-ride lot in Maple Ridge; • Improved connections between neighbourhoods and major transit/West Coast Express exchanges; • Improved local service coverage, including to neighbourhoods with no coverage such as Albion and Silver Valley; • More transit service in the evenings and weekends. 7.2 � nn�-Term T-. .__�� ��.._=��Y Transit represents an important part of the city's transportation system by providing an alternative to driving for persons that have the choice to drive, who choose not to drive for all or some trips, and for those without access to a private vehicle. The City's Official Community Plan calls for improvements to local transit service and facilities, stronger transit connections to key community destinations, and better pedestrian amenities. As the existing transit system in Maple Ridge is funded and planned by TransLink, and operated by Coast Mountain Bus Company, the long-term Transit Strategy provides guidance on the overall aspirations for transit in Maple Ridge based on community input, and recommends facilities and support programs that may be October 2014 Page 98 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan implemented by TransLink, the City of Maple Ridge and other agencies. The following discussion outlines the strategic directions for transit in the city over the next 20 years. 7.2.1 Enhanced Network of Local and Regional Services In the long term, the City will want to enhance and expand transit services and facilities to meet the growing demands of the community. Within existing developed areas, the STP includes more attractive service levels (frequencies) and a wider range of local and regional services and connections. In new growth areas, such as Silver Valley, the City will want to ensure the provision of attractive and cost-effective connections to the Town Centre and other regional bus services in the long-term, and will want to provide attractive options to driving as the community expands. The structure of the long-term services for Maple Ridge is illustrated in Map 29. In general, the hub-and-spoke route structure serves regional travel relatively well, but is less able to serve local trips between origins and destinations within Maple Ridge. For some short local trips, transit riders would have to travel to the Haney Place exchange, then transfer to a second route, which may not operate as frequently. Planned growth and development of the city suggest that the existing regional route structure should largely be maintained, as the regional services to and from other communities are well suited to competing with the private automobile. In fact, Maple Ridge's Town Centre should be connected to the Coquitlam City Centre and Evergreen Line with a rapid transit service operating along the Lougheed Highway corridor. The service should provide frequent, fast and direct access to rapid transit to other parts of Metro Vancouver. Additionally, a rapid transit connection to the Highway 1 rapid bus services as well as Langley City Centre should be accommodated in the long-term. Additionally, as the community becomes more densely populated in the existing urban area, the City wants to move toward a grid pattern of local transit services that reduce the need for circuitous trips via the Town Centre exchange. The City will also want to encourage attractive service levels to ensure that transit is an attractive alternative and also to support growth and development in the Haney-Hammond area. October 2014 Page 99 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Colurnhfa 7.2.2 Comfortable and Accessible Passenger Facilities City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Although providing attractive bus services with connections to desired destinations both locally and regionally is critical to the success of transit, passenger accessibility and facilities at bus stops and transit exchanges can have a significant impact on passenger safety and comfort in addition to attracting new customers. Improving customer information, seating, shelters and the accessible design of stops or exchanges provides transit riders with a safe, pleasing and comfortable experience. Currently, approximately 50% of the city's 306 bus stops are deemed to be accessible. Over the long-term, the City should strive to have 100% of its bus stops fully accessible and this can be achieved by improving approximately five or more bus stops per year. In the short-term, and in order to maximize the effectiveness of infrastructure improvements, non-accessible bus stops should be prioritized according to existing passenger activity as previously described. The short-term improvements may include existing sidewalk improvements or construction of concrete pads for wheelchairs within boulevard space. In addition to increasing accessibility of transit stops for all customers, other passenger amenities needed at transit stops include shelters, benches, trash receptacles, as well as system maps and wayfinding. In the long-term, the 1 --_ -'-� City should strive to provide seating, lighting and customer �. information at all bus stops, rapid transit stations, and transit exchanges in Maple Ridge. In addition, shelters are desirable in areas of higher pedestrian activity such as in the Town Core, and at high activity bus stops along Dewdney Trunk Road (a frequent transit corridor). An investment in five new bus shelters a year would more than double the number of bus stops with shelters. The capital cost of improving five bus stops a year is estimated to be approximately $35,000 to $40,000 per year, while the cost of providing five shelters a year would require an annual budget of approximately $75,000 per year. October 2014 Page 100 MAPLE RfDGE Briueh Co-Lurnhfa Map 29: Long-term Transit Route Structure y �ity aF � v' = r��Q���: . j I---� eS _ 1 `�` � � � 4PT� =37IAuP 132 A�re r + � 128 �Je To f ,,, � E�ergreen � ` _ N M _ �' H 124 Ave � �' �' Line � a izi a,�E J 0 122 AVe � �Q � ry .� ❑ewcney Trunk Rc � �f�L Louof�:eed H�vy bQ r � � r. R�yeT 0.d ^, 112 Rve �ownshi� .� !_���;;�_,�_ Highway 1 Rapid 8us and Langley City � West Coast Express • Frequent Transit Carridar Rapid Transit Cannettian Lacal 5ervice Area {Community 5huttles} �o� nv� 1L"2 Ave n lJA .7LP �n 100 AWe LoUEIiF�d ywy � j I�I S L: y �y i"C� E: 1` City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan �i5tri�t of ::��le Ricl�e � I 1 �a�vdney Tru-lk Rd I 1 I � 112 Avc ;n I � ti I � � � � IN 6 � w y � + N F 1 October 2014 Page 101 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan 7.2.3 Expanding West Coast Express Services (daytime & weekend) and Station The West Coast Express provides a critical role in expanding travel choices for Maple Ridge residents, particularly those travelling to downtown Vancouver. Today, over 2,000 daily trips originate from or are destined to the two Maple Ridge stations. In order to address overcrowding issues on West Coast Express identified by residents and to increase flexibility of transit travel, there is increasing demand for expanded West Coast Express service. Expanding midday and weekend West Coast Express services would capitalize on its success and make it a more convenient alternative to commuting to and from downtown and other parts of Vancouver. In support of the economic growth of the Maple Ridge, reverse peak service has also been identified as a high priority to bring commuters from other parts of the region to the city, as well as midday train services to augment TrainBus and weekend train service. These service and capacity expansions should be explored further with TransLink and other Northeast Sector communities. With increasing demands at park-and-ride facilities in Pitt Meadows and limited access to the West Coast Express Station in Maple Ridge, an eastern Albion Station should be examined in order to support the long-term travel demands to the core areas of Metro Vancouver. Transit-oriented development may be explored at this location to further enhance the success of transit. 7.2.4 Transit Priority Strategies In order to enhance the potential of rapid transit services (and person capacity of the transportation system), transit priority strategies should be considered within Maple Ridge and across the Northeast Sector of the region. Transit priority treatments along corridors and at intersections can enhance the customer experience, reduce bus travel times, improve reliability and ultimately make transit competitive with driving. Although many of these treatments could impact vehicle travel, they are critical to supporting long-term transit ridership by prioritizing transit over vehicles. A wide variety of transit strategies have been implemented in North American to enhance transit travel times. These strategies include changes to bus services as well as physical measures to allow transit to bypass areas of congestion as graphically illustrated in Figure 4 below. In particular, queue bypass lanes or queue jumpers are an effective form of transit priority at heavily congested intersections. Bus only lanes may be used to enable buses to proceed through the intersection ahead of general purpose traffic. Alternatively, right-turn lanes can be designated as `right-turn only except buses' to allow buses to continue straight through the intersection. Some geometric modifications may be required to facilitate the through movement. October 2014 Page 102 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa +� .y c m H w 0 � � a� c � � � u w � W bA c .� m a� L u C City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Figure 4: Strategies to Enhance Transit Travel Times Difficulty to Implement October 2014 Page 103 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa APPENDIX A City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Detailed Sidewalk Network Priorities Appendix A MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Table A-1: Pedestrian Area Sidewalk Priorities 117 Ave Haney Bypass — near 224 St $42,000 119 Ave 226 St — 227 St, 227 St — 228 St $87,000 North Ave-117 Ave,117Ave —Haney 223 St $52,500 Bypass 223 St Dewdney Trunk Rd — Brown Ave $40,500 224 St Callaghan Ave — St. Anne Ave $15,000 225 St Brickwood Close — 116 Ave $15,000 Brown Ave 224 St — Edge St $37,500 Brown Ave Edge St — 227 St $78,000 Brown Ave 222 St — Plaza Ave $18,000 Callaghan Ave Haney Bypass — 224 St � $15,000 Edge St Dewdney Trunk Rd — Lane $12,000 Edge St Lane — Brown Ave $6,000 Fraser St North Ave - mid-block $12,750 Fraser St Mid-block — end $25,500 Garden St Dewdney Trunk Rd — Brown Ave $39,000 Mclntosh Ave 226 St — 227 St $42,000 Plaza St Dewdney Trunk Rd — Brown Ave $39,000 Selkirk Ave 225 St — 226 St � $54,000 Selkirk Ave 226 St — 227 St $22,500 Total $653,250 _ � �� � � River Rd West of 223 St $16,500 223 St River Rd — Haney Bypass $16,500 Total $33,000 Laity St River Rd — Hospital access $25,000 Laity St South of Lougheed Highway $6,000 117 Ave Laity St — River Wynd $60,000 Total $91,000 � - - - � 119 Ave Lougheed Highway — mid-block $63,000 119 Ave Mid-block — 207 St $28,500 Appendix A MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa Appendix A City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan 119 Ave Lougheed Hwy — mid-block $168,750 Total $260,250 � � � Hammond Rd West St — 203 St $180,000 Dunn Ave Maple Meadows Way- West St $33,000 Total $213,000 � 116 Ave Lougheed Hwy — 232 St $60,000 117 Ave Burnett St — 231 St $135,000 232 Ave 116 St — 117 St $57,000 Total $252,000 Grand Total $1,502,500 Table A-2: Bus Route Sidewalk Priorities (Medium Term) r �1� 11� 117 Ave 203 St — River Wynd $291,000 123 Ave 206 St — 208 St $49,500 123 Ave Laity St — 216 St $198,000 203 St Dewdney Trunk Rd — 123 Ave $150,000 240 St 110 Ave — 112 Ave $72,000 240 St 112 Ave — Kanaka Creek Rd $40,500 Kanaka Creek Rd — McClure 240 St Ave $87,000 240 St Hill Ave — 103 Ave $132,000 240 ST 103 Ave — 104 Ave $28,500 Ditton St Maple Cres — Princess St $66,000 Laity St Lougheed Hwy — 121 Ave $96,000 Laity St Campbell Ave — 123 Ave $39,750 Lorne Ave Maple Cres — Princess St $64,500 Maple Cres 203 St — Westfield Ave $42,000 Maple Cres Ditton St — Dartford St $22,500 Princess St Lorne Ave — Ditton St $27,000 River Road Laity St — 216 St $99,000 River Road 216 St — River Bend $336,000 Total $1,841,250 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa Appendix A City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Table A-3: Urban Collector and Arterial Sidewalk Priorities (Long-term) 121 Ave 122 Ave 122 Ave 124 Ave 126 Ave 203 St 206 St 206 St 228 St 230 St 232 St 232 St Cottonwood Dr Cottonwood Dr Laity St Laity St Laity St Lorne Ave River Rd Total � Laity St — 216 St $198,000 216 St — 218 St $60,000 Dover St — 224 St $270,000 Edge St — 227 St $96,000 216 St — Blackstock St � $78,000 123 Ave — Golden Ears Way $195,000 Dewdney Trunk Rd — $147,000 Tyner Ave Tyner Ave — 123 Ave $18,000 North of Dewdney Trunk Rd — Abernethy Way $103,500 Dewdney Trunk Rd — Storey Ave $60,000 117 Ave — Stager Ave $70,500 112 Ave north $195,000 114a Ave — 116 Ave $96,000 Cottonwood Dr — Dewdney $82,500 Trunk Rd 123 Ave — 124 Ave $22,500 Douglas Ave — Thornton Ave $56,250 Thornton Ave — 128 Ave $96,000 Maple Cres — 207 St $66,000 207 St — Laity St $180,000 $2,090,250 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa APPENDIX B City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Detailed Bicycle Network Priorities Appendix B MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Columhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Table B-1: Summary of Bicycle Facilities (Short-term) 227 Street Abernethy Way Lougheed Hwy $39,480 232 Street 124 Ave/ Abernethy 116 Ave $36,270 ,_ � �� Ospring / Lorne Street 205t" Street Kingston Street $40,000 205t'' Street / Westfield Avenue Lorne Ave Westfield Ave $24,000 Princess Street Fraser Way Ospring St $26,040 207th / 206th Street Lougheed Hwy 123rd Ave $43,280 Wicklund Avenue / Skillen 123�d Ave Laity Street $49,000 Street Donavan Avenue / Wicklow 216 Street 222 Street $51,400 Selkirk Avenue 222 Street 227 Street $38,000 222"d Street Selkirk Ave Church Ave $16,280 223rd Street Selkirk Ave North Ave $7,800 North Ave/Royal Crescent/226 223 Street Edge Street $43,200 Street Edge Street Brown Ave 119 Ave $10,680 119 Ave Edge St 228 St $21,960 224 Street Dewdney Trunk Callaghan Ave $36,520 Callaghan Avenue/223 Street 224 Street River Road $12,320 116 Ave 224 Street Burnett Street $49,720 227 Street Haney Bypass Path $29,960 Burnett Street Path Lougheed Hwy $15,440 117 Avenue/231 Streetl118 Ave Burnett Street 231 B Ave $29,880 225 Street North Ave Haney Bypass $13,640 222 Street/Hillside Street 122 Ave 124 Ave $19,400 227 Street /128 Ave Abernethy Way 228 Street $35,680 Foreman Drive 136 Ave 232 Street $55,960 Tamarack Lane Lougheed Hwy 240 Street $88,720 236 Street/116 Ave/Creekside Kanaka Way 118 Ave $72,000 Street 236 Street (north) $15,400 118 Ave 236 Street 240 Street $19,760 240 Street Dewdney Trunk 121 Ave $12,520 TOTAL SHORT-TERM $954,310 Appendix B MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Table B-2: Summary of Bicycle Facilities (Medium-term) Maple Meadows Way Lougheed Hwy Golden Ears Way $19,410 Dunn Ave Maple Meadows Way Maple Meadows Way $15,540 113B Ave Kingston Street Airport Way $12,630 207 Street Westfield Ave Lougheed Hwy $26,640 Laity Street Lougheed Hwy River Road $13,560 216 Street Lougheed Highway River Road $10,110 124 Avenue 232 Street 240 Street $48,000 240 Street 124 Ave 121 Ave $15,150 240 Street 112 Ave 113 Avenue $8670 Kanaka Way / 112 Ave Lougheed Hwy 240 St $54,090 .� � = �= 132 Avenue Lougheed Highway Lougheed Highway Abernethy Way Thorne Avenue i Ospring Street — South Bonson 128 / 210 Street dyke trail 227 Street TOTAL MEDIUM-TERM Appendix B 232 Street Laity Street 216 Street 224 Street 203�d Street Ospring Street 128 Street Haney Bypass 216 Street Western boundary Haney Bypass i �L 210th Street Hammond Golden Ears Way 210th Street Lougheed Highway $3 million* $1.3 million $550,000 $1.35 million* $93, 000 $385,000 $553,000 $73,000 $3,177,800 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa 1203 Street 132 Ave 210 Street 216 Street 224 Street 136 Ave 128 Ave City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Table B-3: Summary of Bicycle Facilities (Long-term) .�"'r - � . • . � . . � � 232 Street/ Silver Valley Rd 132 Ave/Fern Crescent Haney Bypass Lougheed Hwy 240 St Appendix B 128 Ave 203 Street 132 Ave 128 Ave 136 Ave 224 Street 228 Street 132 Ave 232 Street Lougheed Hwy 227 St 112 Ave 132 Ave 210 Street 128 Ave 132 Ave 224 (South) �� Foreman Drive 232 Street North Silver Valley Road Fern Crescent Lougheed/Kanaka Way Mission River Road $330,000 $369,900 $240,600 $241,200 $486,600 $129,600 $239,700 $747,000 $961,200 MoTI MoTI $810,600 MAPL� RfDGE Brifiah Culvrnhfa City of Maple Ridge Strategic Transportation Plan Table B-4: Summary of Bicycle Facilities (20+ Years) 240 St 112 Ave River Road 112 Ave/Bosonworth Ave/108 Ave 240 St 272 St Lockwood Street/249 Street/Jackson Road Bosonworth Ave 104 Ave Jackson Rd/100 Ave 104 Ave 272 Street Lougheed Hwy 112 Ave 272 St 284 Street/280 Street Dewdney Trunk Dewdney Trunk 256 St 256 St Bosonworth Ave 130 Ave/248 Street 256 Street Appendix B 272 Street Dewdney Trunk 280 St Lougheed Hwy 284 St North 112 Ave $810,600 $2,056,800 $608,700 $1,840,200 $1,824,000 $566,100 $1,727,100 $1,931,100 $2,281,800 $1,551,900 MAPLE RIDGE 6ritish Co[umhla T0: FROM: SUBJECT: District of Maple Ridge His Worship Mayor Ernie Daykin MEETING DATE: October 28, 2014 and Members of Council FILE N0: Chief Administrative Officer MEETING: Regular 2015 UBCM Age Friendly Community Planning and Projects Grant Application EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Launched in 2004, the Seniors' Housing and Support Initiative (SHSI) was created by the Ministry of Community, Sport & Cultural Development to assist local governments to prepare for an aging population. Between 2007 and 2014, additional funding programs were available focusing on age- friendly projects and promoting communities to develop policies, services and structures designed to support older people to live active, socially engaged, and independent lives. In 2009 an Age-friendly Communities Grant was received by the City of Maple Ridge, supported by the Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues (MACAI). Through this grant a community inventory and assessment was conducted according to the Age-friendly assessment framework. Many benefits were achieved through this community engagement work including increased capacity of seniors through the development and strengthening of the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows-Katzie Seniors Network. This group has continued to work diligently to address the priorities that were highlighted through this process. A second grant submitted by Parks and Leisure Services received funding under the same program in 2012 and a Volunteer Management program was developed for the Ridge Meadows Seniors Society (RMSS). The current 2015 UBCM Age-friendly Community Planning and Project Grant program is targeted at communities that have not previously applied or have not completed a formalized Age-friendly Action Plan in order to achieve recognition as an Age-friendly Community. The proposed application qualifies under this requirement as a formalized Action Plan has not been developed and our communities of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows have not been awarded the Age-friendly distinction. The proposed "Engaged, Energized, and Collaborative Age-Friendly Action Plan" application will focus on updating the 2009 inventory and assessment, identifying community priorities, and completing and publishing an Action Plan. Once complete, our communities will qualify to apply for BC Age- friendly distinction. RECOMMENDATION: That the City of Maple Ridge is committed to working towards becoming a recognized BC Age- Friendly community; and that the 2015 Union of B.C. Municipalities' Age-Friendly Community Planning and Project Grant application be endorsed; including a commitment that City staff will provide overall grant management of the proposed project. 1202 1 DISCUSSION: a) Background Context: The world's population is rapidly aging, and British Columbia is no exception. By 2031, close to 1.5 million British Columbians across the province will be over 65—almost a quarter of the province's population. Around the globe, communities are getting ready to meet the challenges, prepare to meet the needs of their older residents, and take advantage of the opportunities of an aging population. The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Network of Age-friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC) was established to foster the exchange of experience and mutual learning between cities and communities worldwide. The creation of age-friendly communities in BC builds on findings from the World Health Organization's Age-friendly Cities. Utilizing the WHO framework, the Province has been advancing the age-friendly agenda since 2007 in collaboration with UBCM and other key partners to engage and support local governments in preparing their communities for an aging population. Age-friendly British Columbia (AFBC) is built around the following key components: grants (through UBCM) and staff support from the Ministry of Health; Ministry of Health recognition of local governments who achieve four key steps in the process to become more age-friendly; and provision of information, resources, and tools to assist local government staff. In 2009, through an application supported by the Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues (MACAI), the City of Maple Ridge was awarded an Age-Friendly Community Planning grant. To support the project, an Age Friendly Steering Committee was established including representation from Council, the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues, Seniors Networks, care providers, community organizations, local business, and older persons. Utilizing the World Health Organization's age-friendly assessment framework, an age-friendly forum was held in April, 2009 to conduct an inventory of assets, identify barriers, and outline collaborative ways to increase the age-friendliness of the communities of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. In May of that same year, a follow up forum designed to add to the findings was hosted by the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows-Katzie (MRPMK) Seniors Network, newly formed at that time. These processes were extremely successful in both building the awareness and capacity of the community to plan for the aging population, but also in identifying opportunities to increase the age-friendliness of the two communities. Many of the opportunities outlined in the final report have been addressed since that time. The MRPMK Seniors Network has been very proactive in supporting many of this changes and i n itiatives. In 2012, Parks and Leisure Services was successful in receiving Age-Friendly Communities funding to support the development of a sustainable and formal Volunteer Management program for the Ridge Meadows Seniors Society (RMSS). This project was very beneficial to RMSS as they were expanding their programming into the new Pitt Meadows Senior Centre at that time. Two additional applications for funding under this program since that time have not been successful: an outdoor fitness circuit for seniors in Pitt Meadows and improving neighborhood walkability in Maple Ridge. These applications were not successful primarily due to the fact that they were not linked to a formalized and published Age-Friendly Community Action Plan. 2 In addition, the two communities are not currently included in the list of 27 BC communities that have applied for and been awarded Age-friendly BC (AFBC) Community Recognition. The AFBC recognition program is designed to recognize and reward success, and encourage and motivate communities to take action towards becoming age-friendly. Recognized communities receive: an AFBC recognition award, promotion of the community's achievements in the AFBC publications, and national and international recognition as an age- friendly community, and a reward for an age-friendly community legacy project. The current application process is being targeted for communities that have not received previous funding or have not completed a community action plan. If supported by Council, an application will be developed in partnership with the MRPMK Seniors Network, RMSS, Fraser Health, and other community partners with the goal of updating the 2009 assessment and developing a comprehensive Action Plan through an extensive community engagement process. This is a key piece of work that will ensure that we are an age-friendly City, and will prepare Maple Ridge to achieve the Age-friendly BC Community designation. b) Desired Outcome: To achieve an age-friendly community where older people are supported to live active, socially engaged, and independent lives through the creation of policies, services and structures designed to support them. c) Strategic Alignment: Support of this resolution aligns with the Safe and Livable Communities Strategic Direction. d) Citizen/Customer Implications: The entire community benefits in an age-friendly community: • Seniors are supported to age actively, enjoy good health, and remain independent and involved in their communities. • People of all ages and abilities benefit from safer, barrier-free buildings and streets, better access to local businesses and facilities, and more green spaces. • Businesses benefit from the increased support and spending power of older customers, and are better able to support older workers. • And, the community benefits from the increased participation of older adults in community life. e) Interdepartmentallmplications: The following departments will be invited to have staff participate in the Action Planning process: Planning, Engineering, Parks, Facilities and Operations, Recreation, Business and Bylaws, and RCMP. f) Business Plan/Financial Implications: Project is noted in the 2015-2019 Parks and Leisure Services Business Plan, pending grant funding approval. Existing staff liaison to Seniors tables will provide support and there are no additional financial implications. CONCLUSIONS: Population ageing and urbanization are two global trends. At the same time cities are growing, their share of residents aged 60 years and more are increasing. In supportive and enabling environments, older people are a resource for their families and their communities. Active ageing is considered a life-long process that is shaped by several factors that favour health, participation and security in older life. The WHO's approach to active ageing is to enable cities to become more age- 3 friendly so as to tap into the potential that older people represent for a community. An age-friendly city encourages active ageing by optimizing opportunities for health, participation, security in order to enhance the quality of life as people age. In practical terms, an age-friendly city adapts its structures and services to be accessible to and inclusive of the older population, which in term ensures a healthier community for all citizens. Development of an Age-friendly Action Plan will help to prepare our communities to both prepare for, and benefit from, our ageing populations. "Original signed by Sue Wheeler" Prepared by: Sue Wheeler, Director Community Services "Original signed by Kelly Swift" Approved by: Kelly Swift, General Manager, Community Development, Parks & Recreation Services "Original signed by Paul Gill for Jim Rule" Concurrence: J.L. (Jim) Rule Chief Administrative Officer :sw Attachment: UBCM 2015 Age-friendly Community Planning & Project Grants Program & Application Guide 0 UBCM � Seniors' Housing & Support Initiative E-mail: Igps@ubcm. 525 Government Street, Victoria ca BC, V8V OA8 �,��,Tr �o�.UMB�� AgeFriendly 2015 Age-friendly Community Planning & Project Grants Program & Application Guide 1. Introduction Seniors' Housing 8� Support Initiative Launched in 2004, the Seniors' Housing and Support Initiative (SHSI) was created through a one-time $2 million grant from the (now) Ministry of Community, Sport & Cultural Development to assist local governments to prepare for an aging population. Between 2007 and 2013, the Ministry of Health provided an additional $2.25 million to further support the initiative and to incorporate a focus on age-friendly projects, including $.5 million in for 2014 grants. In the initial phases of the program, the emphasis was on information sharing and grants for �Seniors in Communities Dialogues.' Pilot project funding was available from 2006 to 2008 and the first Age-friendly Community Planning grants were offered in 2009. Community Planning and Project funding was offered in 2010, and from 2012 to 2014. To date, more than 125 local governments have completed projects or been approved for funding under the SHSI. The Ministry of Health has now committed an additional $.5 million in funding to the program and UBCM is pleased to announce that a maximum of 25 qrants of up to $20,000.00 are available for 2015 community planning initiatives or community projects. The priority in 2015 is to engage communities that have not yet completed an age-friendly plan or undertaken a project focused on age-friendly communities. Age-friendly Communities An age-friendly community is a community where older people are supported to live active, socially engaged, and independent lives through policies, services and structures designed to support them. The creation of age-friendly communities in BC builds on findings from the World Health Organization's Age-friendly Cities and the Canadian Age-friendly Rural and Remote Communities projects in 2007. The Province has advanced the age-friendly agenda since 2007 in collaboration with UBCM and other key partners to engage and support local governments in preparing their communities for an aging population. Age-friendly British Columbia (AFBC) is built around the following key components (See Appendix 1): 1. Support - Grants (through UBCM) and staff support from the Ministry of Health 2. Recognition - The Ministry of Health will recognize and reward local governments who achieve four key steps in the process to become more age-friendly 3. Information - A resource package and website with tools to assist local government staff For more information on Age-friendly British Columbia, contact the Seniors' Health Promotion Directorate by email: AgeFriendlyBC@gov.bc.ca or by phone: (250) 387-9520. 2015 Age-friendly Planning & Project Grants - Program & Application Guide 2. Guiding Principles The 2015 SHSI program is intended to assist local governments in BC to best support aging populations, develop and implement policies and plans and/or develop projects that enable seniors to age in place and facilitate the creation of age-friendly communities. Applications should demonstrate a commitment to the following guiding principles: • Community Driven - Community solutions are based on local priorities • Catalyst for Action - Community activities are catalysts that enable local governments and community partners to enhance and improve services for older adults • Focus on Funding Priorities - Activities are focused on funding priorities with clear outcomes • Flexible - Required actions differ in each community • Coordinated - Activities of different levels of government and community partners are coordinated to avoid duplication among programs and projects • Sustainable Results - Community activities contribute to improving the lives of older adults over time Table 1: Eligible Activities Eligible Activity Examples Community planning • Review and revision of OCPs or community or neighbourhood plans • Review and revision of zoning and other bylaws (subdivision, snow removal, parking, etc.) • Review and revision of development permit requirements • Creation of a local Age-friendly plan • Creation of specific plan and/or policies that address one or more of the eight community components (see Section 4) • Development of age-friendly design guidelines Adding an age-friendly or seniors lens to planning initiatives, such as: • Active transportation planning • Food security and food systems planning • Community planning processes related to social determinants of health (e.g. affordable housing, homelessness, etc.) • Development of community health plans • Engagement of seniors in planning activities Community projects Developing new community projects for seniors, such as: • Prevention of e/der abuse • Support for persons with dementia • Increased community accessibility (transportation, housing, services) • Provision of recreation and healthy living activities and/or referral and support to link seniors with recreation and hea/thy living services • Community gardens and healthy eating • Hea/th literacy and promotion (e.g. workshops, guides, etc.) • Chronic disease prevention • Injury prevention and community safety (including traffic safety) • Intergenerational projects 2015 Age-friendly Planning & Project Grants - Program & Application Guide 2 3. Eligible Applicants Eligible applicants are local qovernments (municipalities and regional districts) in British Columbia. Please see Section 6 for other important information on application requirements. 4. Funding Priorities & Eligible Activities The priority in 2015 is to engage communities that have not yet completed an age-friendly plan or undertaken a project focused on age-friendly communities. A maximum of 25 qrants will be available. Eligible activities are new community planning and/or community projects that are undertaken by a local government and that address the guiding principles and funding priorities of the program. This includes comprehensive age-friendly community planning/projects or activities that focus on one or more of the eight age-friendly community components: • Outdoor spaces and buildings • Transportation (including traffic safety) • Housing • Respect and social inclusion • Social participation • Communications and information • Civic participation and employment • Community support and health services Table 1 provides an overview of eligible activities and examples of each. The SHSI is not intended to be a capital project funding program. However, minor capital expenditures for eligible activities that have a clear and definable benefit to seniors will be considered for funding. Please note capital costs cannot exceed 40% of the total requested grant (i.e. an application for a$15,000.00 grant cannot include more than $6,000.00 in capital costs). In addition, please note the following are not eligible activities: • Development of feasibility studies, business cases, architectural, engineering or other design drawings for the construction or renovation of facilities providing services to seniors, including housing • Fundraising 5. Age-friendly BC Community Recognition Program (Optional) All local governments, including applicants to the 2015 SHSI program, have the opportunity to apply for the Age-friendly British Columbia Recognition Program from the Ministry of Health. Please see Appendix 1 for more information. 6. Application Process The application form is required to be completed by all applicants. A Council or Board resolution, as well as a detailed budget, is required with the application form. The Council/Board resolution is required to indicate support for the proposed activities and willingness to provide overall grant management 2015 Age-friendly Planning & Project Grants - Program & Application Guide 3 Applications are due by October 31, 2014, and applicants will be notified of the status of their application by December 5, 2014. The Evaluation Committee will assess and score all eligible applications based on the guiding principles and funding priorities. Higher application review scores will be given to applications that: • Are from local governments that have not received funding from the Seniors' Housing & Support Initiative from 2010-2014 • Demonstrate direct participation of seniors in the planning stages • Complement the Provincial priorities regarding seniors outlined in Appendix 2 • Include collaboration with one or more partners (e.g. health authority, board of education, community-based organization, First Nation or Aboriginal organization or other local government) The committee will also consider the location of each proposal in order to ensure a balanced representation of projects across the province. Please note the followinq important points when preparinq your application: • The maximum grant is $20,000 and matching funds and/or cost sharing are not required • Only one application per local government will be accepted • Funds are for new activities that support age-friendly communities and are not for on- going operations or regular planning activities • All funded activities are to take place within the 2015 calendar year and the final report will be due within 30 days of project completion and no later than January 30, 2016 • The detailed budget must indicate proposed expenditures and align with the proposed activities outlined in the application form • Council/Board resolutions must indicate support by the local government for the proposed project as well as a willingness to provide overall grant management • All application information and final reports will be shared with the Province of BC 7. Grant Management & Applicant Responsibilities Notice of Approval All applicants will receive written notice of the Evaluation Committee's decision as well as the terms and conditions of any grant that is awarded. Grants are awarded in two payments: 70% at the approval of the project and 30% when the project is complete and UBCM has received the required final report and a financial summary. Applicant Responsibilities Please note: Grants are awarded to local qovernments only. When collaborative projects are undertaken with community partners, the local government remains the primary organization responsible for the grant. Due to this, and in addition to the terms and conditions that will be provided to all successful applicants, local governments are responsible for: • Proper fiscal management, including acceptable accounting records • Final reports (using UBCM forms) and certification of costs. 2015 Age-friendly Planning & Project Grants - Program & Application Guide 4 Final Reports All funded activities are to take place within the 2015 calendar year and the final report will be due within 30 days of project completion and no later than January 30, 2016. Applicants are required to complete the final report form, available on the UBCM website. The certification of costs on the final report must be signed by the local government Chief Financial Officer. Please note that all application information and final reports will be shared with the Province. Changes to Funded Activities Approved applicants are required to advise UBCM of any significant variation from the approved project as described in the completed application form. Approval from UBCM may be required in advance for such changes. Extensions Please note that all funded activities are required to be completed within the 2015 calendar year and any requests for extensions beyond this date must be in writing and be approved by UBCM. 8. Where to Apply All application materials should be addressed to Local Government Program Services. Local Government Program Services Union of BC Municipalities 525 Government Street Victoria, BC, V8V OA8 9. Additional Information E-mail: Igps@ubcm.ca Fax: (250) 356-5119 For further information on grants and the application process, please contact Seniors Housing & Support Initiative: Local Government Program Services Phone: (250) 356-2947 or E-mail: Igps@ubcm.ca For further information on age-friendly communities, please contact Ministry of Health: Seniors' Health Promotion Directorate Phone: (250) 387-9520 or Email: AgeFriendlyBC@gov.bc.ca 2015 Age-friendly Planning & Project Grants - Program & Application Guide 5 Appendix 1 Age-friendly British Columbia Overview In an age-friendly community seniors are able to enjoy good health and active social participation. Age-friendly communities provide welcoming public spaces, accessible � transportation, affordable housing options, employment and volunteer opportunities as �� well as information and services that fit the needs of seniors. The age-friendly community initiative began with studies conducted by the World Health Organization and the Canadian Rural and Remote Age-friendly Communities project. Building on these initiatives, the Province has supported the development of age-friendly communities since 2007 through direct assistance and the provincially-funded Seniors' Housing and Support Initiative — Age-friendly Planning and Project Grants to local governments managed by the Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM). A renewed Age-friendly British Columbia strategy was launched on September 29, 2011, and includes: • Grant funding: Through the partnership with the UBCM, funding from the Province has helped local governments with grants of up to $20,000 to support age-friendly planning and projects. Since 2007 more than 125 communities or two-thirds of the incorporated local governments have received grants. • Age-friendly British Columbia Recognition: Local governments can apply and be awarded recognition by showing that they have met criteria that focus on engagement, commitment, assessment, and action (see details on page 8). • Tools and Resources: Becoming an Age friendly Community: Local Government Guide and associated resources are available in print form and on SeniorsBC.ca at: www.gov.bc.ca/agefriendly to help communities get started. For advice and support around age- friendly planning (email: Agefriendly@gov.bc.ca). A series of online videos released on April 25, 2012, highlight elements of age-friendly communities through examples of actions in several B.C. communities. • Creating an Age friendly Business in B.C.: The business guide was released in partnership with the BC Chamber of Commerce in June 2011, and helps businesses address the needs of older customers and workers. www.gov.bc.ca/agefriendly C�7 Age-friendly British Columbia Community Recognition A local government can apply for Age-friendly British Columbia recognition once it has completed the following basic steps which demonstrate its commitment to age-friendly principles: 1. Establish an age-friendly advisory or steering committee that includes the active participation of older adults. An existing committee can also take on this mandate. 2. Pass a council or district board resolution to actively support, promote and work towards becoming an age-friendly community. As an alternative, local governments may choose to commit to being age-friendly through specific goals, objectives or policies in an official community plan or strategic plan. 3. Conduct an age-friendly assessment in consultation with older adults. 4. Develop and publish an action plan. The recognition program is offered in partnership with BC Healthy Communities. Applications for recognition are available from AgefriendlyBC@gov.bc.ca. Age-friendly recognition will grant local governments: ➢ an Age-friendly British Columbia recognition award; ➢ promotion on the Age-friendly British Columbia section of the SeniorsBC website; ➢ promotion of the community in the SeniorsBC, BC Healthy Communities and UBCM e-newsletters; ➢ recommendation by the Province to grant the local government age-friendly recognition at the national and international level; ➢ access to a network of age-friendly organizations (provincial, national and international); and ➢ a recognition reward to help the community provide an age-friendly legacy project or celebration. To ensure continued age-friendly success and maintain recognition status, communities will also implement the action plan and monitor age-friendly progress by measuring and reviewing activities, and reporting publicly on action plan outcomes. INFORMATION: Email: AgefriendlyBC@gov.bc.ca; or visit: www.gov.bc.ca/agefriendly 7 Appendix 2: PrOV111C1a,1 Pr10r1t1eS The following are examples of provincial priorities that may complement age-friendly planning and projects: Accessibility 2024 (http://engage.gov.bc.ca/disabilitywhitepaper/accessibility-2024/) On June 16, 2014, Accessibility 2024, a 10-year action plan, was released that supports B.C.'s vision of becoming the most progressive place for people with disabilities in Canada. The plan is designed around 12 building blocks — inclusive government, accessible service delivery, accessible internet, accessible built environment, accessible housing, accessible transportation, income support, employment, financial security, inclusive communities, emergency preparedness and consumer experience. Examples of age-friendly assessment/project incorporating accessibility Clearwater conducted a survey and the findings indicated there were several mobility issues. An age- friendly community committee was formed to create the Clearwater Age-friendly Community Plan. The three-year plan includes identifying seniors' mobility project. (2013 age-friendly recognition) Cobble Hill/ South Cowichan Official Community Plan include the objective of creating an elder- friendly environment, with policies for affordable housing, accessibility and safety. (2014 age-friendly recognition) Elder Abuse Prevention Initiative (www.gov.bc.ca/elderabuse) The Together to Reduce ElderAbuse — B.C.'s Strategy (TREA Strategy) is a provincial strategy to promote the protection and safety of seniors addressing three key areas: 1. Building public awareness about elder abuse and the valuable contributions of older British Columbians; 2. Training to better response to suspected and identified elder abuse; and 3. Enhancing coordination and collaboration through a multi-sector alliance (Council to Reduce Elder Abuse) and a call-to-action to reduce elder abuse. These efforts will contribute to our ultimate goal of fostering a shift in societal attitudes so that elder abuse is not tolerated in our communities. The Government of B.C. has developed an information kit (English, French, Chinese, Punjabi) to help older people recognize abuse and know how to respond and where to find assistance available at www.gov.bc.ca/elderabuse. A province-wide toll free line is available for seniors to talk to someone about situations where they feel that they, or someone they know, are being abused or mistreated. The Seniors Abuse and : Information Line (SAII) is operated by the BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support 7 days a week (excluding holidays) from 8 am — 8 pm; see: http://bcceas.ca/programs/sail/. In February 2012, the Ministry awarded $1.4 million to the BC Association of Community Response Networks (BCCRN) to expand Community Response Networks (CRNs) throughout B.C. by 2015; there are currently 112. A CRN is a local network of service providers, agencies, local governments and volunteers that work to build the whole community capacity to address and prevent adult abuse, neglect and self-neglect. For more information see the BCCRN website: www.bccrns.ca enerated/homepa�e.php. An example of an age-friendly assessment/project incorporating elder abuse awareness The City of Surrey recognizes senior abuse, neglect and self-neglect as a concern. To address these issues, the Focus on Seniors Task Force was formed under the "Prevent and Deter Crime from the Crime Reduction Strategy". Approximately four forums are held each year with a focus on Elder Abuse and Neglect, and they are presented in three different languages (Punjabi, Korean and Mandarin). Approximately 120 to 200 seniors attend each of the events. A 2012 age-friendly planning and project grant provided funding assistance. www.surrey.ca/community/8413.aspx Provincial Dementia Action Plan (www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2012/dementia-action-plan.pdf) The goal of the Dementia Action Plan is to increase individual, community and health service capacity to provide early, appropriate and effective care and support to assist people with dementia to remain at home and in their communities to the greatest extent possible. A new three-year plan will be launch soon. There is an estimated 60,000 to 70,000 residents living with dementia. One of the programs the Province is supporting is the First Link Program operated by the Alzheimer Society of B.C. On March 25, 2013, the Province announced $2 million to continue to support the program that provides services and supports to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease or related dementia. By participating in First Link, those with dementia, their families and caregivers can receive customized information and access to helpful programs and services. First Link currently operates in North Fraser, Greater Victoria, North and Central Okanagan, North and Central Vancouver Island, Northern Interior and Skeena, Richmond/South Delta, Vancouver, North Shore and Sunshine Coast. Please see: www.alzheimerbc.org/We-Can-Help/First-Link.aspx Example of an age-friendly project incorporating dementia awareness The City of Vancouver has developed an age-friendly action plan with the support of a 2012 age-friendly planning and project grant. One of the action items is addressing the needs of persons with dementia by training all park board seniors' programmers/instructors on incorporating dementia-friendly aspects into seniors programs, as well as developing partnerships to offer dementia-friendly, caregiver-inclusive adult programs. http://vancouver.ca/files/cov/age-friendly-action-plan-staff-presentation-20130626.pdf E Better at Home (www.betterathome.ca/home) Better at Home, an innovative non-medical home support program funded by the Government of B.C. and managed by the United Way of the Lower Mainland (United Way), is supporting seniors to remain living independently in their homes and communities longer by giving them access to simple services such as transportation to appointments, light housekeeping, yard work and friendly visiting. Better at Home services are available in 60 communities across the province. To learn more about the Better at Home program and whether it is offered in your community, please visit www.Betterathome.ca. . �• 10