Schedule “B” Municipal Class Environmental

Transcription

Project File Report
Schedule “B” Municipal Class
Environmental Assessment
Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge
Concession 1 Walpole
Haldimand County
2013
Project: 12-022
Date: January 30, 2014
Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Summerhaven Pedestrian BRIDGE – Haldimand County
March 31, 2014
Page 2
1. Background
The proposed Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge is located in the Geographic Township of Walpole, now in
Haldimand County. The proposed structure if approved will be located at Lot 24, Concession 1, off of
Bluewater Parkway. The site is 1.0km south of Selkirk and the proposed pedestrian bridge will span Stoney
Creek, which drains into Lake Erie at this point. It is known that there was a bridge at this location sometime in
the past.
The recently completed Haldimand County Lakescape Action Plan includes a pedestrian bridge at this location.
This plan report was prepared by EDA Collaborative Inc., in association with Sierra Planning and Management
for Haldimand County and was published in November 2011. In keeping with the objectives of that plan, the
Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge would be connected to a lake side trail with viewing stops at specified
locations to take advantage of the lake shore area. A copy of the Haldimand County Lakescape Action Plan is
available for review on the Haldimand County website, and shall be considered an integral portion of this
Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Project File.
2. Schedule Classification
As defined by the “Municipal Class Environmental Assessment” manual (October 2000, as amended in 2007,
2011), the following project description for Schedule ‘B’ projects is applicable:
“30. Reconstruction or alteration of a structure or the grading adjacent to it when the structure is over 40
years old, (where the proposed work will alter the basic structural system) overall configuration or
appearance of the structure. Cost limit of $2.4 million.”
It is anticipated that this project will be classified as a Schedule ‘B’ project. This is based on the reconstruction
of a bridge at this location and the expectation that the project cost will not exceed $2.4M. Therefore, a
Schedule ‘B’ classification is confirmed.
3. Problem Statement
The following problem statement has been developed based on the Tourism plan developed for
Haldimand County:
The Tourism plan for the lakeshore identified this area as a place to allow for a crossing of
the Stoney Creek and link the lakeshore trail system. There is no pedestrian crossing at
this location.
A bridge had once been in place at this location in the past. Haldimand County staff therefore anticipate
building a replacement structure in 2014.
4. Description of the Environment
The bridge is proposed to be located south of the Village of Selkirk near the shore of Lake Erie, in
Haldimand County. The surrounding land uses are agricultural, seasonal and permanent residential
dwellings and flood plain. The area immediately surrounding the structure has no known or reported
historical significance, refer to the Archaeological Assessment report for further details.
G. DOUGLAS VALLEE LIMITED
Consulting Engineers, Architects & Planners
Authorized by the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario
to offer professional engineering services.
March 31, 2014
Page 3
TABLE 4.1
Description of the Environment
Item
Description
Soil Type
Clay loam over bedrock.
Vegetation
Areas of manicured lawn/landscaping on residential
properties nearby. Crops in nearby fields include
soybeans, corn, grains and hay. The MNR data
regarding species at risk has been reviewed and two
plants are known to be in the area.
LPRCA indicated there were no aquatic species-atrisk at the subject site. It is anticipated that the
LPRCA will require no in-water work to be permitted
from September 30 until March 15 due to the warm
water classification. Other SAR mitigations will be
forthcoming from LPRCA. The review of the MNR
data regarding species at risk confirmed the findings.
Aquatic Habitat and Fisheries
Wildlife
Typical of Carolinian Forest. Common to area are
deer, cottontail rabbit, raccoon and various species of
birds typical to the south central area of Ontario. The
review of the MNR SAR data did indicate the
American Badger may be in the area.
Social
The small Village of Selkirk is located immediately
north. There are residences on the road. The
predominant land-use surrounding the structure is
agricultural seasonal and permanent residential
dwellings and floodplain hazard land.
Economic Environment
No detour route for affected residents will be required
during construction.
Heritage
No heritage issues.
March 31, 2014
Page 4
5. Alternative Solutions
Three alternative solutions were considered as possible solutions to the problem:
a) Do Nothing

The bridge has been identified as a potential asset in the Tourism Study for Haldimand
and would link lakeside trails.
This alternative does not provide the required link for the lakeside trails or add to the tourism for
the area. It is not considered a viable solution and will not be included further.
b) Repair the existing abutment and install a new pedestrian bridge


The single remaining abutment is not in good condition and would be too costly to
repair.
The former bridge is no longer at the site.
This alternative is very costly and the abutment would require extensive work to bring it up to
standards. It is not considered a viable solution to the problem statement and will not be
included further.
c) New pedestrian bridge on new foundations
This option is a viable alternative solution, the new bridge would be built to CHBDC standards
and would meet the requirements of the tourism study and provides a connecting link for the
lakeside trail system.
6. Public Consultation Process
Input into the planning process was invited through two separate mechanisms:




Letter notices were sent to various noted Public Agencies.
Newspaper advertisements soliciting public comment were placed in local publications.
Letters were sent to the neighbouring property owners.
A series of public meetings and information centres were held as part of the Haldimand
County Lakescape Action Plan. A copy of the Final Report (November 2011) can be
obtained from the Haldimand County website.
The sample letter and the list of contacted agencies are attached in the appendix to this report.
Responses from the following agencies were received:
1. Haldimand County Public Works: Advised that no comments were received by Haldimand
County Public Works as a result of the public advertisements.
Haldimand County Public Works has provided the Haldimand County Landscape Action Plan
which was prepared to address the Lakeshore area. The Plan identified the Summerhaven
area as a lakeshore node to be used for public enjoyment, organized fishing and passive
March 31, 2014
Page 5
recreation areas. The proposed bridge is a component of the Summerhaven Park development
and will connect the lakeside trail system across the existing creek waterway.
2. Transport Canada: Navigable Waters Protection – July 10, 2012 Advised that waters spanned
by a bridge are considered “navigable” and are subject to the Navigable Waters Protection Act.
An approval of the project from Transport Canada: Navigable Waters is required.
3. Ministry of Natural Resources, Cristal Heintzman Planning Intern-Aylmer District – Lands &
Waters Section April 3, 2012, forwarded the comment request to Guelph office (email), no
comments were received from the Guelph office.
4. Long Point Region Conservation Authority Ben Hodi EIT M.A.Sc., January 10, 2014 (email):
LPRCA has no concerns with the proposed work but advised that a permit will be required. The
LPRCA advised that there are no fish species listed under SAR to be present.
5. Ministry of the Environment, Barb Slattery – Planning Coordinator, April 10, 2012: Indicated
requirements for projects near water sources with respect to environmental protection.
6. Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs, Wendy Cornet Manager, Consultation Unit, May 19, 2012:
indicated that our current contact with Six Nations of the Grand River, Mississaugas of New
Credit, and Munsee Delaware First Nations is sufficient.
7. Various utilities: Hydro One, Am telecom, Union gas, Bell Canada, was contacted and
responses were received regarding their plant in the vicinity of the bridge and there were no
concerns.
Notices were sent to numerous public and government agencies, however only those that replied to the
notices are listed above. A list of the contacted groups and agencies, as well as copies of the
submitted notices and the received responses are provided in the appendices of this document.
Submissions of comments as a result of the advertisement were accepted for a period of at least one
calendar year, a significantly longer period than the required 30 days. A copy of the advertisement is
appended to this report. As a result of these advertisements, some comments were received from the
general public. All of the correspondences received have been appended to this report.
This project file report is to be made available for review and comment by the public as well as the
review agencies contacted at the outset of the project. Public comment was invited through the
placement of the Notice of Completion in the local newspapers as indicated:


Haldimand County Web Site
The Sachem & Gazette
The Notice of Completion will also be forwarded to review agencies that requested notification.
*Note: notices were sent to all requested aboriginal groups & agencies; however no further responses
had been received at the time of publication of this document.
March 31, 2014
Page 6
7. Consultant Reports
Throughout the environmental assessment process, studies, investigations, and reports were
commissioned in order to assist in determining the preferred solution to the problem statement. Copies
of each noted report are appended to this document. The following investigations and their
summarized results and/or recommendations are as follows:
Archaeological Assessment
An archaeological assessment was completed by Mayer Heritage Consultants Inc. May 2013. This
assessment was requested by the Ministry of Culture to clear the site of archaeological resources. The
history of the site was researched and selective field excavations were undertaken. The assessment
revealed that the site did not contain archaeological resources.
Haldimand County Lakescape Action Plan
A planning proposal for the development of lakeside parks and other improvements has been
assembled by EDA Collaborative Inc. published in November 2011. A section of the report deals
specifically with the Summerhaven area along the lakeshore south of Selkirk. A wide spanning creek in
this area cuts off the lakeshore trail, resulting in a pedestrian detour. The report includes a
recommendation to provide a pedestrian bridge to link the park and lakeshore seasonal residences in
this area.
8. Discussion of Viable Alternative Solutions
In this situation, it is not possible to rehabilitate the existing structure using a conventional approach.
Given the location, length of span, level of deterioration of the existing abutment, environmental
impacts, and all other factors considered throughout the course of this assessment, it is clear that the
only viable alternative solution may be to construct a new pedestrian bridge on new foundations.
Therefore:
Alternative Solution (a) Do Nothing is not a viable solution and will not be considered further.
Alternative Solution (b) Repair the existing abutment and install a new pedestrian bridge is not a viable
solution and will not be considered further.
Alternative Solution (c) New Pedestrian Bridge with new foundations this option is a viable alternative
solution. The new bridge would be built to CHBDC standards and would meet the requirements of the
tourism study; and provide a connecting link for the lakeside trail system.
Alternative Solution (c) New Bridge on new footings Table 8.1
Table 8.1 summarizes the impact on the environment as described by Table 4.1 if a new bridge is
constructed. In general the impact of this alternative on the surrounding environment will be minimal,
with no permanent disruption to the waterway. Activities on site will be typical of a construction site and
will all be contained within the limits of the site and County owned right of ways.
March 31, 2014
Page 7
TABLE 8.1
Impact on the Environment
Impact and Mitigation
No soil disruption, Environmental Protection controls
to be installed per LPRCA requirements to prevent
erosion and sedimentation of waterway.
Item
Soil Type
Vegetation
All disturbed areas shall be restored to original
condition according to the LPRCA mitigation
requirements. Any species at risk will be protected in
accordance with MNR requirements.
Aquatic Habitat and Fisheries
In order to mitigate debris from entering the waterway,
tarpaulins, traps, or enclosures shall be used. Any
debris inadvertently dropped into the water shall be
collected and disposed of in an approved manner
expeditiously. Any equipment re-fuelling etc. shall be
done away from watercourse. Any spills shall be
reported to the Spills Action Centre of the MOE. All
work to be done in accordance with mitigation
requirements of the LPRCA. Any species at risk will be
protected in accordance with MNR requirements.
Wildlife
Minimal impact, due to existing patterns and the bridge
is to be used for pedestrian traffic only. Any species at
risk will be protected in accordance with MNR
requirements.
Minimal impact due to nearby detours for residents
and maintaining one lane of traffic during construction.
Construction time estimated to be 4 months.
Social
Economic Environment
Heritage
Minimal impact. No adjacent industrial operations. The
local residents will not be inconvenienced other than
normal construction practices.
The site has been determined not to be of heritage
value, with no anticipated archaeological resources.
9. Preferred Solution
The preferred solution is a new pedestrian bridge structure. This solution addresses the requirements
of the problem statement as it:

Improves public safety by providing a safe pedestrian crossing over the creek.

Provides a structure that conforms to the requirements of the Canadian Highway Bridge
Design Code (CHBDC).
March 31, 2014
Page 9
APPENDICES
PUBLIC NOTICE
SAMPLE LETTER AND CONTACT LIST
CORRESPONDENCE
ARCHEAOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
HALDIMAND COUNTY LAKESCAPE PLAN
March 31, 2014
Page 10
PUBLIC NOTICE
SCHEDULE B – MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT
Lot 24 Concession 1, Walpole, Haldimand County
PUBLIC COMMENT INVITED
Haldimand County is studying alternatives for the construction of a pedestrian bridge,
which spans the Stoney Creek in Walpole.
Alternatives to be considered include:
1) Do nothing; 2) Repair the existing abutment and install a new pedestrian bridge
3) New pedestrian bridge on new footings.
This project is being planned under Schedule B of the Municipal Class Environmental
Assessment.
Please send written comments to the contacts below before May 3, 2012.
Subject to comments received as a result of this Notice, and the receipt of necessary
approvals, Haldimand County intends to proceed with implementation of the preferred
alternative.
For further information on these projects please contact:
Haldimand County
Economic Development and Tourism Division
45 Munsee Street North PO Box 400
Cayuga, ON, N0A 1E0
G. Douglas Vallee Limited
2 Talbot Street North
Simcoe, ON, N3Y 3W4
Contact: James Goodram MCIP, RPP, PLE
Manager
Phone: (905) 318-5932 ext 242
Email: jgoodram@haldimandcounty.on.ca
Contact: A. Ryan Elliott, P.Eng., BDS
Project Engineer
Phone: (519) 426-6270
Email: ryanelliott@gdvallee.ca
This Notice issued April 2, 2012.
March 31, 2014
Page 11
SAMPLE LETTER AND CONTACT LIST
March 28, 2012
Long Point Region Conservation Authority
4 Elm Street
Tillsonburg, ON
N4B 0C4
Attention:
Mrs. Heather Surette
Supervisor of Resource Planning
Reference:
Schedule “B” Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Lot 24 Concession 1 Walpole, Haldimand County
Our Project #12-022
Please be advised that we have been retained by Haldimand County to provide engineering services for the
construction of a pedestrian bridge which will span the Stoney Creek. The location of this proposed structure is
Lot 24 Concession 1 at the south end on Bluewater Parkway south of County Road 3 Haldimand County. This
project is being planned under a Schedule “B” Municipal Class Environmental Assessment. The assessment
will address the following four alternative solutions: do nothing; repair the existing abutment and install a new
pedestrian bridge; install a new bridge on new footings.
Due to the nature of the proposed work, it will be necessary to solicit information and comments from various
affected groups, agencies, and associations.
Please advise if there are any environmental issues regarding the Species at Risk Act, Endangered Species
Act as they relate to DFO and MNR, as well as any comments or advice with regard to obtaining a permit from
the Conservation Authority.
Yours very truly,
A. Ryan Elliott, P.Eng. BDS
Head of Structural Engineering
H:\Projects\2012 12-022 Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge Bridge\Envro Assessment\EA Letters doc
March 29, 2012
Ministry of Culture
Cultural Division Programs and Services Branch
401 Bay Street Suite 1700
Toronto, ON
M7A 0A7
Attention:
Ms. Laura Hatcher
A/Heritage Planner/Southwest and Northwest
Reference:
Our Project #12-022
construction of a pedestrian which will span Stoney Creek. The location of this proposed structure is Lot 24
Concession 1 at the south end of Bluewater Parkway south of County Road 3, Haldimand County. This project
is being planned under a Schedule “B” Municipal Class Environmental Assessment. The assessment will
address the following four alternative solutions: do nothing; repair the existing abutment and install a new
bridge; install a new bridge on new footings.
Please advise if there are any issues regarding this proposed pedestrian bridge structure. An Archaeological
Assessment has already been requested. We are assuming there are no heritage issues at the site. Please
see attached photos and completed checklist for further information.
Yours very truly,
A. Ryan Elliott, P.Eng., BDS
H:\Projects\2012 12-022 Summerhavnen Pedestrian Bridge\Envro Assessment\EA Letters doc
March 29, 2012
Navigable Waters Protection
Transport Canada
100 Front Street South
Sarnia, Ontario,
N7T 2M4
Attention:
Sue MacDonald-Simcox
Navigable Waters Protection Officer
Reference:
Our Project #12-022
Please be advised that we have been retained Haldimand County to provide engineering services for the
construction of a pedestrian bridge which will span Stoney Creek. The location of this proposed structure is Lot
24 Concession 1 at the south end of Bluewater Parkway south of County Road 3, Haldimand County. This
pedestrian bridge; install a new pedestrian bridge on new footings.
We have assumed that Stoney Creek at this location may be considered a navigable waterway. There was a
bridge there in the past given that the old abutment is still in place on the east side of the creek. We have no
coordinates for the location; we have provided a location drawing and pictures of the proposed bridge location.
In the event that the creek is determined to be navigable, it will be necessary to commence C.E.A. initiatives as
soon as possible.
Yours very truly,
H:\Projects\2012 012-022 Summerhaven PedestrianBridge\Envro Assessment\EA Letters doc
March 29, 2012
Resident:
Reference:
Our Project #12-022
construction of a pedestrian bridge which will span Stoney Creek. The location of this proposed structure is Lot
24 Concession 1 at the south end of Bluewater Parkway south of County Road 3, Haldimand County. This
pedestrian bridge; install a new bridge on new footings.
We request you forward any pertinent information or comments regarding any utility under your jurisdiction, on
or near this project as soon as possible. The County of Haldimand anticipates construction of this project
within six (6) months. The last date for comments is May 3rd, 2012.
Yours very truly,
H:\Projects\2012\ 12-022 Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge\Envro Assessment\EA Letters doc
March 31, 2014
Page 12
AGENCY CORRESPONDANCE
And PUBLIC CORESPONDANCE
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Ryan Elliott
Michael Higgins
FW: Information for the Transportation / Infrastructure Project(s) your organization is involved in
Wednesday, July 18, 2012 11:58:35 AM
NWPA Request for Work Approval APPLICATION FORM.pdf
NWPA APPLICATION GUIDE.pdf
FYI…lets review and discuss…
Ryan
From: James Goodram [mailto:jgoodram@haldimandcounty.on.ca]
Sent: Wednesday, July 18, 2012 9:24 AM
To: Ryan Elliott; 'Michael Yeo'
Cc: Joanne Wolnik
Subject: FW: Information for the Transportation / Infrastructure Project(s) your organization is involved
in
Hi Ryan and Michael,
I received this and asked for clarification, it was sent to me relating to our EA project in
Summerhaven.
James
From: EnviroOnt [mailto:EnviroOnt@tc.gc.ca]
Sent: July 10, 2012 5:34 PM
Subject: Information for the Transportation / Infrastructure Project(s) your organization is involved in
Hello,
Thank you for the information regarding the project your organization is involved in. Please in future
forward correspondence on this project to the undersigned. We have reviewed the information, and
note the following:
Transport Canada is responsible for the administration of the Navigable Waters Protection Act
(NWPA), which prohibits the construction or placement of any “works” in navigable waters without
first obtaining approval. If any of the related project undertakings cross or affect a potentially
navigable waterway, the proponent should prepare and submit an application in accordance with
the requirements as outlined in the attached Application Guide and Form. Any questions about the
NWPA application process should be directed to the Navigable Waters Protection Program at (519)
383-1863 or NWPontario-PENontario@tc.gc.ca.
Please review the Minor Works and Waters (Navigable Waters Protection Act) Order, established to
outline the specific standards and criteria under which Transport Canada considers a work / water as
a minor and does not require an application under the NWPA. It is the responsibility of the
applicant, prior to submitting an application to the Navigable Waters Protection Program for review,
to assess whether their work / water meets the criteria, as described, and, therefore, falls within
one of the excluded classes. An application will only be required if it is determined that the work /
water cannot meet the criteria established for that particular “class” of excluded work.
Transport Canada is responsible for the administration of the Railway Safety Act to ensure the safe
operation of railways. The Act addresses the construction and alteration of railway works, the
operation and maintenance of railway equipment and certain non-railway operations affecting
railway safety. Pursuant to the Notice of Railway Works Regulations, the project proponent will be
required to give notice of the proposed project to the following: the railway whose line is to be
crossed, the municipality in which the crossing works are to be located and the authority having
responsibility for the road in question. An approval may be required for certain railway works that
depart from engineering standards set under the regulations or where an objection has been filed
against the work. Information is available at the following Internet sites:
· Railway Safety Act: http://www.tc.gc.ca/acts-regulations/acts/1985s4-32/menu.htm
· Notice of Railway Works Regulations: http://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/SOR-91-103/
· Standards Respecting Pipeline Crossings Under Railways:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/railsafety/standards-tce10-236.htm
· Guideline on Requesting Approval to Undertake Certain Railway Works:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/railsafety/guideline-283.htm
Inquiries can be directed to Duwayne Williams, Manager of Engineering, at (416) 973-2326 or
duwayne.williams@tc.gc.ca
Transport Canada is concerned with the risks posed by impacts between aircraft and birds. For this
reason, waste facility proposals are reviewed to determine their potential to influence the
probability, frequency, and severity of this problem. It is our position that all waste facility projects
should include the implementation of a bird management plan which addresses aviation safety
criteria, and that these facilities should commit to operating as bird-free sites. We recommend that
the project considers the following general guidance:
· Seek to avoid developments that would attract birds into proximity with airports. Specifically,
Transport Canada recommends against the sitting or expansion of landfills within 15 km of an
airport, where risks are highest. One of the compliance criteria included in Transport Canada’s
new Airport Wildlife Planning and Management regulation is based on waste disposal facilities
situated within 15 km of the airport geometric center. These airports will be required to conduct
a risk assessment and have in place a wildlife management plan.
· Since birds are known to travel up to 60 km between roosting and feeding sites, strict bird
hazard management plans may need to be developed for waste facilities within this zone.
· Risks are greatest where an airport lies between a water body and a landfill, as this may cause
bird flight paths to cross aeronautical flight paths.
· Once a preferred alternative is known, Transport Canada suggests that the proponent follows
the advice of a consultant with experience in conducting bird hazard assessments for projects of
a similar nature.
Obstacles such as wind turbines must be assessed for lighting and marking requirements in
accordance with Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) Standard 621 – Obstruction Marking and
Lighting. Appendix C of Standard 621 is the new Aeronautical Assessment Form that needs to be
submitted for all future obstacle assessments (available at:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/wwwdocs/Forms/26-0427_1202-03_BO_X.pdf). All completed forms should
be submitted to CASO-SACO@tc.gc.ca.
Please note the former regulation CAR 601.19 has been replaced by CARs Part VI Subpart 1 Division
III:
CAR 601.23 – Obstacles to Air Navigation
CAR 601.24 – Marking and Lighting of Obstacles to Air Navigation
CAR 601.25 – Other Obstacles to Air Navigation
CAR 601.26 – Upgrading of Marking and Lighting
CAR 601.27 – Equivalent Marking and Lighting
CAR 601.28 – Notification of Deterioration, Failure or Malfunction
CAR 601.29 – Prohibition
Transport Canada regulates aviation safety in Canada through the Aeronautics Act and the Canadian
Aviation Regulations (CARs). Transport Canada has sole jurisdiction over aeronautics, which includes
aerodromes and all related buildings or services used for aviation purposes. Anything on the
aerodrome property and anything associated with the aerodrome that is integral to aeronautics falls
within Transport Canada's jurisdiction. For elements in question that are not integral to the
operation of the aerodrome/airport, Transport Canada encourages aerodrome/airport operators to
be aware of other jurisdictions and applicable legislation. If the Aerodrome has a registered status
(whereby aeronautical data has been provided and published in the Canada Flight Supplement),
expansion of the aerodrome would require that the aerodrome operator notify NAV CANADA at
aisdata@navcanada.ca and copy Transport Canada at caso-saco@tc.gc.ca to advise of the changes
to the aerodrome’s aeronautical data. Any expansion, including the paving of runways and
construction of hangars, does not require approval from Transport Canada. Aerodrome operators
must comply with the CARs pertaining to aerodromes which are available at:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/civilaviation/regserv/cars/part3-subpart1-1045.htm.
Please contact us if there are any questions or concerns.
Thank you,
Environmental Assessment Coordinator
Transport Canada, Ontario Region
Environment & Engineering (PHE)
4900 Yonge St., 4th Fl., Toronto, ON M2N 6A5
Email: EnviroOnt@tc.gc.ca
DISCLAIMER: This e-mail and any attachments may contain personal information or
information that is otherwise confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, any use,
disclosure or copying of any part of it is prohibited. Haldimand County accepts no liability
for damage caused by any virus transmitted in this message. If this e-mail is received in
error, please immediately reply and delete or destroy any copies of it. The transmission of emails between an employee or agent of Haldimand County and a third party does not
constitute a binding contract without the express written consent of an authorized
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Ryan Elliott
Michael Higgins
FW: Schedule "B" Municipal Class EA -Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge, Haldimand County
Tuesday, April 03, 2012 4:33:08 PM
12-04-03 Haldimand County - MCEA Notice.pdf
From: Heintzman, Cristal (MNR) [mailto:Cristal.Heintzman@ontario.ca]
Sent: Tuesday, April 03, 2012 4:13 PM
To: ryanelliott@gdvallee.ca
Cc: Heintzman, Cristal (MNR)
Subject: Schedule "B" Municipal Class EA -Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge, Haldimand County
Good Afternoon Ryan,
The Aylmer District Ministry of Natural Resources Office has received the Notice of Commencement for
the Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge. Please note it has been forwarded to the Guelph District MNR
Office as they are now the lead District for all of Haldimand County. Please direct all future
correspondence for Haldimand County to the Guelph District MNR office.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.
Thanks,
Cristal.
Cristal Heintzman
Ministry of Natural Resources
615 John St. N.
Aylmer, Ontario N5H 2S8
Tel: (519) 773-4737
Email: cristal.heintzman@ontario.ca
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Ryan Elliott
Michael Higgins
FW: "Summerhaven" Pedestrian Bridge
Monday, April 16, 2012 9:48:37 AM
For the EA file…
From: James Goodram [mailto:jgoodram@haldimandcounty.on.ca]
Sent: Monday, April 16, 2012 8:51 AM
To: Ryan Elliott; Joanne Wolnik
Subject: FW: "Summerhaven" Pedestrian Bridge
From: JAMES GOODRAM
Sent: April 14, 2012 11:41 AM
To: 'foreman_john51@hotmail.com'
Subject: Re: "Summerhaven" Pedestrian Bridge
It had absolutely nothing to do with NextEra. It was identified as such while we undertook a 18
month long study known as the Lakescape Action Plan which involved several open houses attended
by hundreds of people including neighbouring property owners. Never was the name an issue. It
simply identifies a location.
----------------------------------------------------------Sent from my BlackBerry Wireless Device
James Goodram, MCIP, RPP, PLE
Manager, Economic Development & Tourism
Haldimand County
Cell: 905-981-8796
Tel: 905-318-5932 x242
Fax: 905-772-3541
www.HaldimandCounty.on.ca
From: john foreman [mailto:foreman_john51@hotmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2012 09:38 AM
To: James Goodram
Subject: "Summerhaven" Pedestrian Bridge
Mr. Goodram
I saw the notice on page nine of the Sachem of Thursday April 12/2012 inviting public comment re:
the repair or replacement of the Pedestrian Bridge over Stoney Creek in Walpole. I, personally, don't
have an opinion as to which option should be undertaken under the "Economic & Tourism" Division of
Haldimand County. I will leave that decision in the hands of your engineers! However, I DO strongly object to naming the bridge the "Summerhaven" Pedestrian Bridge. Who,
may I ask, came up with the moniker "Summerhaven"? Did that suggestion, by any chance, come from
Nextera or has the proposed industrial wind turbine installation in this part of Haldimand by Nextera
been named in honour of a bridge in Walpole?
To suggest that this issue falls under the auspices of the "Economic and Tourism Division" of
Haldimand County is a joke. Anyone who has undertaken even a cursory study of the issue of the
"Green Energy Act" and its impact on the economy and tourism in this portion of Ontario knows that
the aforementioned GEA will do NOTHING to boost the economy or encourage tourism in Haldimand
County. In fact, it will have the exact opposite effect!
Your clarification of this issue would be appreciated!
Regards
John Foreman
DISCLAIMER: This e-mail and any attachments may contain personal information or
information that is otherwise confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, any use,
disclosure or copying of any part of it is prohibited. Haldimand County accepts no liability
for damage caused by any virus transmitted in this message. If this e-mail is received in
error, please immediately reply and delete or destroy any copies of it. The transmission of emails between an employee or agent of Haldimand County and a third party does not
constitute a binding contract without the express written consent of an authorized
representative of The Corporation of Haldimand County.
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Ryan Elliott
Michael Higgins
FW: Schedule "B" Municipal Class EA -Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge, Haldimand County
Tuesday, April 03, 2012 4:33:08 PM
12-04-03 Haldimand County - MCEA Notice.pdf
From: Heintzman, Cristal (MNR) [mailto:Cristal.Heintzman@ontario.ca]
Sent: Tuesday, April 03, 2012 4:13 PM
To: ryanelliott@gdvallee.ca
Cc: Heintzman, Cristal (MNR)
Subject: Schedule "B" Municipal Class EA -Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge, Haldimand County
Good Afternoon Ryan,
The Aylmer District Ministry of Natural Resources Office has received the Notice of Commencement for
the Summerhaven Pedestrian Bridge. Please note it has been forwarded to the Guelph District MNR
Office as they are now the lead District for all of Haldimand County. Please direct all future
correspondence for Haldimand County to the Guelph District MNR office.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.
Thanks,
Cristal.
Cristal Heintzman
Ministry of Natural Resources
615 John St. N.
Aylmer, Ontario N5H 2S8
Tel: (519) 773-4737
Email: cristal.heintzman@ontario.ca
March 31, 2014
Page 13
ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
March 31, 2014
Page 14
HALDIMAND COUNTY LANDSCAPE
ACTION PLAN
Haldimand County
Lakescape Action Plan
Final Report | November 2011
Prepared by
In association with
Prepared for
Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background and Purpose
1.2 Goals and Objectives
1.3 Study Area
Page Number
1
3
4
5
2.0 CONTEXT
2.1 Location
2.2 Community Profile
2.3 Historical Context
2.4 Natural and Cultural Features
2.5 Planning Framework Review
2.6 Demographic Context
2.7 Market Analysis
7
9
9
10
12
14
15
16
3.0 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PROCESS
3.1 Overview
3.2 Phases of the Community Engagement Process
3.2.1 Information and Data Gathering Phase
3.2.2 Community Design Phase
3.2.3 Validation Phase
3.3 Key Findings
3.3.1 Community Strengths
3.3.2 Community Challenges
3.3.3 Key Findings Overview
21
23
24
25
26
26
27
27
28
29
4.0 VISION AND DESIGN PRINCIPLES
4.1 Vision
4.2 Design Principles
31
33
34
5.0 ACTION PLAN CONCEPT
5.1 Concept Plan
5.2 Development Nodes Concepts
37
39
42
Haldimand County Lakescape Action Plan | Final Report
i
Table of Contents
6.0 KEY NODE DESIGN GUIDELINES
6.1 Design Themes
6.2 Port Maitland
6.3 Summerhaven Area
6.4 Featherstone Point Beach
ii
Page Number
47
49
50
52
54
7.0 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY
7.1 Implementation Priorities
7.2 Development Costs
7.2.1 Port Maitland Preliminary Order of Magnitude Estimates
7.2.2 Summerhaven Preliminary Order of Magnitude Estimates
7.2.3 Featherstone Preliminary Order of Magnitude Estimates
57
59
60
60
62
63
Appendix 1 - Planning Framework Review
Appendix 2 - Demographic Profile and Market Analysis
65
85
1
Introduction
Introduction
1
1.1 Background and Purpose
As identified in the Haldimand County Official Plan of 2006, a guiding principle
for the Lakeshore is to “plan for the north shore of Lake Erie in Haldimand
County to ensure it remains an asset for all residents of the County and potential
tourists to the Lakeshore area”. The Lakescape Action Plan builds upon the
vision established for the Lakeshore area in the County’s Official Plan.
The purpose of this plan is to provide a focused ten-year integrated strategy
identifying key issues, development opportunities and constraints along
Haldimand County’s Lake Erie shoreline. It will focus on design strategies,
tourism and recreation and sustainable growth management.
The Lakescape Action Plan will
identify key issues, development
opportunities and constraints
along Haldimand County’s Lake
The Action Plan is a detailed, visionary paper addressing the balance between Erie shoreline.
local interests and product development. The scope of this project does not
extend further than county-owned land to increase and promote sustainable
tourism, while improving quality of life for residents.
3
1
Introduction
1.2 Goals and Objectives
The Lakescape Action Plan sets out the strategies, infrastructure requirements
and supporting policies that will develop sustainable tourism and recreation
opportunities along the shoreline.
Design Strategy
• Shoreline enhancement opportunities
• Gateways, public access, vistas and scenic views
• Public open space development, place-making and beautification
• Waterfront trail development, rest rooms and parking
Tourism and Recreation
• Sustainable tourism development
• Recreational tourism nodes
• Employment and market opportunities
Growth Management
• Economic opportunities
• Infrastructure requirements and servicing
• County land development
Study Inspiration
4
Introduction
1
1.3 Study Area
The Lakescape Action Plan study area is bounded by the north shore of Lake
Erie to the south, Regional Road No. 3 and Canal Bank Road to the north, the
Regional Municipality of Niagara to the east and Norfolk County to the west.
The study area is 87 kilometres in length and is located approximately 110
kilometres southwest of Toronto. Haldimand County includes the communities
of Caledonia, Cayuga, Dunnville, Hagersville and Jarvis.
Study Area
Lakescape Action Plan Study Area within Haldimand County
5
2
Context
Context
2
2.1 Location
Haldimand County is situated in southern Ontario on the north shore of Lake
Erie, just south of Hamilton, Ontario. The County is bordered by Norfolk County,
the County of Brant, Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, City of Hamilton,
and the Regional Municipality of Niagara. The County is spatially bisected by
the Grand River, and is within easy commuting distance of Hamilton, Brantford,
St. Catharines and the Greater Toronto Area.
Location in Southern Ontario
Haldimand County Location Context
2.2 Community Profile
The County has an economy spanning from agriculture to health care. The 4
main areas of industry concentration in the County include heavy industry, food
and food processing, transportation, mining and processing.
Haldimand is well connected by highway transportation routes. The area is also
well serviced by aircraft with Hamilton International Airport 15 minutes from
Haldimand’s northern border, Toronto Pearson International Airport 90 minutes
from Haldimand and the Dunnville Airport, servicing smaller aircrafts.
Haldimand County is well
connected by highway
transportation routes and
aircraft facilities.
Residents of Haldimand County enjoy a comfortable quality of life. Located
within the County are 2 hospitals, 3 public pools, 4 public arenas, 500 acres
of County-operated parkland, and 20 community halls among other public
amenities.
9
2
Context
2.3 Historical Context
Haldimand County is named for Sir Frederick Haldimand who was the Governor
of Quebec from 1777 to 1789. The County was incorporated on January 1,
1800 and remained part of the Niagara District until 1850. In 1974 the County
was amalgamated with Norfolk County and became known as the Regional
Municipality of Haldimand – Norfolk. In 2001 the regional municipality was
abolished, and the local municipalities of Dunnville, Haldimand and part of
Nanticoke were amalgamated into a single-tier authority. Haldimand County
has a rich natural, cultural and human history.
Children at Fisherman's Point, Lake Erie,
near Dunnville, 1898
Methodist Church, Nanticoke, 1910
The Grand River, a central feature of Haldimand County, was designated as a
Canadian Heritage River in 1994 due to its extensive natural and cultural history.
Native cultures have been present in the watershed for over 10,000 years, while in
more recent years, settlers navigated the River in search of land for agriculture.
Today the River has preserved pieces of this history with 19th Century foundries,
mills and factories still present on the banks.
Haldimand County was first inhabited by a native tribe known as the Neutrals
or Attiwandaronk circa 1600. This tribe was known as Neutrals due to the fact
that they traded with both the Iroquois and the Huron, maintaining neutrality
during battles fought between these two tribes. There were thought to have
been as many as 40 Neutral villages in the general area, one of the largest of
these villages is believed to have been built on the Grand River, near to the
current settlement of Caledonia. Around 1650, the Iroqouis attacked, wiping
out the Neutral tribe and destroying a number of Huron villages in the area.
Over the next century a number of groups are thought to have been in the
Haldimand County area including transient Chippewas (Mississaugas), French
explorers and Jesuit missionaries; however, no real attempt to settle the land
was made by any of these groups. The first white settlement within the County
is thought to have been established in 1784.
Port Maitland, undated
The Lakeshore area of Haldimand County (the study area for the Lakescape
Action Plan) has an impressive history as well. The village of Port Maitland, at
the mouth of the Grand River possessed the best harbour on the north shore of
Lake Erie, and was home to the first settlers in the area. At one time the Welland
Canal was connected to the Grand River by a canal, making Port Maitland an
10 Haldimand County Lakescape Action Plan | Final Report
Context
ideal place to serve as a Royal Navy depot during the War of 1812; it continued
to serve as this for some time after the end of the conflict. In the event of war,
this depot was intended to accommodate three frigates and 1,000 men, though
the base actually supported only four schooners which made up the British
naval force on Lake Erie. The Rush-Bagot Agreement of 1817 severely limited
naval activity on the Great Lakes, and the depot was therefore staffed by small
detachments of soldiers. In 1827 the wharf and four buildings were washed
away in a storm, and the remaining buildings had fallen into ruin by 1834, when
the Royal Navy establishment was completely abandoned. The lighthouse,
originally established in 1830, marks the passageway from the Grand River to
Lake Erie.
2
Ruined Lighthouse, Port Maitland, c. 1902
In 1850 Canadian steamer ship Commerce, bound for Port Stanley, was hit by
another steamer that mistook it for a schooner heading into the Grand River.
Thirty four people perished in the wreck.
Another node along the Lakeshore area with historical significance is the area of
Mohawk Point and Lowbanks. The Gull Island Lighthouse (now called Mohawk
Island Lighthouse) is located 1.5 kilometres off the north shore of Lake Erie
near the community of Lowbanks. This lighthouse, a stone tower and keeper’s
residence, was built in 1848 on a small island to guide ships to Port Maitland and
the Welland Canal. By the 1930’s, the lighthouse was not as important as it once
had been, because the feeder route of the Welland Canal to the Grand River was
destroyed and not rebuilt; therefore shipping traffic was greatly reduced, which
led to the lighthouse being decommissioned in 1969. Today, Mohawk Island is a
National Wildlife Area important for nesting and migrating birds, where human
visits are not encouraged and are strictly prohibited during nesting season
(April 1 to July 31).
Mohawk Island (formerly Gull Island)
Lighthouse, built in 1848
Car Ferry in Grand River - Port Maitland
11
2
Context
2.4 Natural and Cultural Features
Natural Features
Haldimand County, and the Lakescape Action Plan study area in particular,
contains a number of natural heritage features. As part of the southern coast
of Ontario and the northern coast of Lake Erie, the Lakeshore area is a gateway
to Haldimand County and Ontario for those travelling by water. The entire area
is ecologically unique and contains a number of significant natural features
and functions. Throughout the Lakeshore area there are a number of natural
environmental areas designated as provincially significant wetlands.
Selkirk Provincial Park
Rock Point Provincial Park
Selkirk Provincial Park, located in the western portion of the study area, boasts
extensive marshes and meadows by Spring Creek; this large area is designated
as a provincially significant wetland. Here, a banding station records migrating
birds, including sandpipers, kingfishers, ducks and herons. The shore of Selkirk
Provincial Park once sheltered fishing boats and today has countless perch,
smallmouth bass, sheepshead, pike and channel catfish in its waters.
Another area designated as a provincially significant wetland is the James N.
Allan Provincial Park, located between Blott Point and Grant Point, approximately
seven kilometers southwest of Dunnville. This Provincial Park is currently nonoperational; however it boasts a vast amount of forest and wetlands, as well
as one undeveloped kilometre of pebble beach and 100 metres of fine sandy
beach.
The Grand River is a major natural feature of the Lakeshore area and Haldimand
County as a whole. The river has a number of provincially significant wetlands
along its banks throughout the County as well as on portions of its banks at its
mouth on Lake Erie.
Featherstone Point Beach
The eastern portion of the study area is characterized by wooded areas, wetlands,
sand dunes and beaches. Rock Point Provincial Park is located in this area which
is a tract of former farmland on a peninsula of Lake Erie. This area is also home to
a variety of wildlife and acts as a migratory resting spot for monarch butterflies.
This portion of the study area is particularly unique in that fossils have been
found imbedded in the limestone shelves along the shore, signifying corals,
bryozoans and other reef organisms were present here during the Devonian
geological period, approximately 350 million years ago.
Context
2
Another significant feature within the Lakeshore area is the Mohawk Island
National Wildlife Area. This two hectare rocky island, located in Mohawk Bay,
southeast of Rockhouse Point near the mouth of the Grand River, boasts an
old stone lighthouse. Much of the island is exposed rock, with a small portion
covered with shrubs, willow clumps, sedges, grasses and mosses. Mohawk
Island is an important nesting area for colonial birds, which nest in large groups
for protection; the island provides refuge from predators for the young nestlings.
The island also acts as a resting spot for migrating birds.
Double-crested Cormorants nest on
Cultural Features
Mohawk Island
A number of cultural features are present within the Lakescape Action Plan
study area. As mentioned in the previous section, there are three Provincial
Parks located along the shoreline, Selkirk, James N. Allan and Rock Point
Provincial Parks, as well as Haldimand Conservation Area. There are numerous
campgrounds within the study area, mainly concentrated along the shoreline.
Some of these campgrounds are temporary (i.e., overnight) accommodations,
while many provide semi-permanent accommodations (i.e., RV parks). There are
also a number of accommodations present along the Lakeshore and within the
County in general, however the accommodation types are not specified. There
are many bed and breakfasts located within Haldimand County as well, however
it is unclear whether bed and breakfasts fall under the general accommodation
category.
Another prevalent cultural feature within the study area is golf courses, seven
of which are located here, many in proximity to the Lakeshore. A number of Esplanade Park, Port Maitland
County-owned parks are also located within the study area, however only one
is located directly on the Lakeshore at Port Maitland, the remainder are located
inland.
13
2
Context
2.5 Planning Framework Review
A solid foundation for developing a Lakescape Action Plan for the Lakeshore
Area of Haldimand County involves a comprehensive understanding of existing
planning policies and guidelines as well as an understanding of the community
itself from an economic, demographic, sociocultural and environmental
perspective. A number of reference materials and documents were researched
and analyzed including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Haldimand County Official Plan (2006)
Trails Master Plan and Partnership Framework Study (2009)
Strategic Master Plan for Leisure Services and Facilities (2006)
Economic Development Strategic Plan (2006)
Premier Ranked Tourist Destination Framework (2007)
The Lakeshore Area Study (2004)
A summary of these documents can be found in Appendix 1.
Context
2
2.6 Demographic Context
The following review of demographic information is primarily derived from the
Statistics Canada 2006 and 2001 Census. For details, please refer to Appendix
2.
The latest census statistics show Haldimand County with a population of
45,212, representing a population growth of 3.4% over the 2001-2006 census
periods. Population growth in Haldimand County has been slower than growth
in the Province as a whole, however, the pace of growth remains faster than
neighbouring Norfolk County between the 2001-2006 Census periods.
As part of the 2010 Community Profile document released by the Haldimand
County, forecasts for the population of the urban areas found within the County
were provided. The urban areas of Haldimand County are estimated to grow at
a rate of approximately 2 percent annually.
Compared with Norfolk County
as well as the Province as a
According to the 2006 Census, there were a total of 18,386 total private dwellings whole, Haldimand County
in Haldimand County in 2006. Of this total, 16,306 dwellings (88.7% of the total) has a significant proportion
were occupied by usual residents. Compared with Norfolk County as well as the of dwellings which can
Province as a whole, Haldimand County has a significant proportion of dwellings
be classified as secondary
which can be classified as secondary residences.
residences.
An analysis of the total labour force by industry shows that the majority of the
labour force in Haldimand County is concentrated in Manufacturing, Business
Services and Other Services. Of significance is the relatively larger proportion
of the population in Haldimand employed in Agricultural, Manufacturing,
Construction and Health Care relative to the Provincial average.
In 2005, the median income in Haldimand was $26,360, closely comparable to
the Provincial average of $27,258 (representing 96.7% of the median income for
the Province of Ontario).
15
2
Context
2.7 Market Analysis
Below is a brief overview of the current market conditions within Haldimand
County. For a full description and analysis, please refer to Appendix 2.
Resident Profile
It is understood that the housing and cottage market in the study area includes
a significant proportion of secondary homes (home not a primary residence for
the owner). A significant portion of secondary property owners in Haldimand
County originate from the Hamilton area as well as the Greater Toronto Area.
Of note is the interrelation of Haldimand County to Hamilton both in terms of
property owners as well as visitation.
A significant majority of
visitation is from the HamiltonWentworth area (over 30%).
Based on our situational assessment of the tourism visitation patterns to the
area, which included face to face meetings with management staff of the
three provincial parks in the study area, this breakdown of origin also reflects
the wider in-province visitor profile. As it relates to the key public areas – and
the provincial parks in particular – the opportunity is based on visitors largely
originating from west of the GTA (west of Peel Region).
Visitor Profile: Regional Tourism Profiles
The following analysis is derived from the Regional Tourism Profile for Census
Division 28 (Haldimand-Norfolk). Comparable information is available for
years 2006-2008. Given methodological changes in the new Travel Survey of
Residents of Canada, 2006-2008 data cannot be compared to earlier years.
It was found that 94% of visitation to Haldimand-Norfolk County in 2008 was
from travellers residing in Ontario. A significant majority of visitation is from the
Hamilton-Wentworth area (over 30%), and other significant visitor origins come
from areas adjacent to or within close proximity to Haldimand County including
Waterloo Region, Brant County, Niagara Region and the Toronto Metropolitan
Area. It should be noted that this profile reflects the entire Census Division
which comprises both Norfolk and Haldimand Counties – as such, it includes
tourism assets of significance such as Turkey Point and Port Dover. As primary
tourism draws, the distribution of visitor origins may be somewhat different
than for Haldimand County alone based on its more low-key asset base along
the Lakeshore.
Context
2
An analysis of the main purpose for a visitor’s trip to Haldimand-Norfolk shows
that almost half of trips are for pleasure and nearly another half are for visiting
family and relatives (VFR). Other reasons for travelling to Haldimand-Norfolk
include business and personal, however, these categories only represent a
small portion of responses. An understanding of the activities in which visitors
to the Haldimand-Norfolk area participate is important. Of the activities cited
by respondents, almost 27% of activities in the Haldimand-Norfolk area were
boating activities.
It became apparent that there is a great importance of water-based and nature
based activities to the region as the top 3 activities in which visitors participate
are entirely nature-based (boating, fishing, nature parks).
The average length of stay (total nights spent) by overnight visitors to the
Haldimand-Norfolk Census Metropolitan Areas (CMA) differ considerably by
origin of visitor. Ontario and US visitors tend to make shorter stays, which is
expected as they are located in relatively close proximity to the area. Visitors
from other parts of Canada stay an average of 17.3 nights and overseas visitors
stay an average of 14.1 nights. The trend in visitor spending in HaldimandNorfolk is encouraging, with total visitor spending growing from $78,664,000
in 2006 to $94,237,000 in 2008. The average visitor spending over the 3 years
of analysis is also growing from $60 in 2006 to $78 in 2008. In comparison to
south western Ontario and Ontario as a whole, the average visitor spending per
person visit remains relatively low.
Seasonal Cottages along Lake Shore Road
17
2
Context
Visitor Activities and Motivations – eTAMS Analysis
The following analysis is derived from the travel activities and motivations
survey by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism. The analysis differs from the analysis
of visitor profile as eTAMS data primarily illustrates the activities which travellers
participated in (activities sought) while travelling in the past two years as well
as the motivations for trips (activities as main reasons for trips) developed from
a sample of travellers. The data is current as of 2006.
The activity markets which stand out from analyzing this research are swimming,
sitting on a beach/sunbathing, wildlife viewing and fishing. In relation to
travelers from Hamilton, eTAMS research reveals that the land-based activities
(within the range of activities on the chart) that motivate trips (i.e., those
where more than 5% indicate the activity motivated some of their trips) were
hiking, golfing, nature parks and wildlife viewing. Golfing and nature parks are
significantly smaller market segments but they are strong trip motivators.
The most significant
accommodations sought by
Hamilton travellers include:
public campgrounds, lakeside /
riverside resorts, seaside resort
and private campgrounds.
eTams also reveals that the water-based activities that motivate trips (i.e. those
sunbathing and swimming. Both of these activities represent large markets as
well as strong motivators for travelers from Hamilton.
For comparison, the travelers market for Ontario as a whole was also analyzed;
the activity markets which stand out from this research are swimming, sitting
on a beach/sunbathing, wildlife viewing, hiking and visiting a nature park.
At this time, winter activities do not represent a large segment of the tourism
market for Haldimand County. It is still important to note that popular winter
activities sought from travellers originating from the main market for Haldimand
County (Hamilton CMA) include, skiing, ice-skating, snowmobiling, ice fishing
and snowboarding.
The types of accommodations sought while travelling in the past 2 years by
travellers from the Hamilton CMA was also researched. The most significant
accommodations sought by Hamilton travellers include: public campgrounds,
lakeside / riverside resorts, seaside resort and private campgrounds.
Context
2
Similarly, the most significant accommodations sought by Ontario travellers
include: public campgrounds, lakeside / riverside resorts, seaside resort and
private campgrounds.
It is clear that camping at a public campground is largely popular among the
Hamilton travellers market as well as the Ontario market as a whole. The type
of camping was researched as well; Tent camping is a significantly larger market
in both the Hamilton CMA and Ontario as a whole (relative to other forms of
camping equipment used), however, the number of travel trailers and motorized
homes was similarly significant.
Camping at a public
campground is largely popular
among the Hamilton travellers
market as well as the Ontario
market as a whole.
Source: Ontario Ministry of Tourism, eTAMS data, 2006
19
3
Community Engagement Process
3
3.1 Overview
There are many stakeholders who have an interest in the future development
of the Lakeshore Area within Haldimand County. Government, industry and
members of the community share a common interest in ensuring that the
Lakeshore community further develops as a healthy and sustainable place to
live, work and recreate.
Developing a successful Lakescape Action Plan for the Haldimand Lakeshore
Area required that the community be engaged from the beginning. The iterative
process was equally as important as the product that has emerged.
From its inception, the approach to the project was deeply rooted in promoting
total inclusion and engaging members of the community in productive
dialogue. The process was premised on an ‘inclusive approach’ that fosters a
sense of community ownership and civic pride. The community has shown a
great deal of interest from the beginning of the process, with between 30 and
75 community members coming out to attend the first community meetings
held on September 1st and 2nd, 2010 in Dunnville, Selkirk and Cayuga. Since
the outset, the process has continued to engage stakeholders in an evolutionary
way.
Information secured from the community formed the basis for the analytical
work completed by the Consulting Team. Throughout the process, information
was shared, ideas were obtained and challenges were understood. Guiding
principles and fundamental design elements emerged from the community
through a number of community listening sessions and open houses.
23
3
3.2 Phases of the Community Engagement Process
At the outset, the process involved information and data gathering. The second
phase involved community input into the design of the plan and at each phase,
the process was iterative with members of the team reporting back to the
community to ensure that their input was accurately interpreted and community
ideas offered a basis for moving forward.
Information & Data Gathering Phase
August - October, 2010
• Individual Stakeholder Interviews
• County Focus Group
Community Design Phase
September 1st + 2nd, 2010
• 3 Public Listening Sessions
Validation Phase
June 23rd, 2011
• Community Review Open House
Community Engagement Process Diagram
3
3.2.1 Information and Data Gathering Phase
Given the importance of a community-driven approach, it was felt that various
opportunities needed to be provided to allow members of the community
to provide their ideas concerning the strengths, weaknesses and areas of
opportunity for the Lakeshore Area. From the initial start up meeting on July
23rd, 2010, members of the Consulting Team worked collaboratively with
Municipal staff to design an effective engagement process at the community
level. The community engagement strategy that emerged was one that
combined a number of critical components that included:
•
•
•
•
One-on-One Interviews w/ Internal Staff, External Clients and Partners
Individual Stakeholder Interviews
Community Listening Sessions
Open Houses & Community Discussions
At the very outset of the process, Municipal staff provided the Consulting Team
with a list of key stakeholder informants – individuals that play a critical role in
the community from a cultural, economic, social and environmental perspective.
A standard list of interview topics was developed and administered in one-onone interviews by members of the Consulting Team. These interviews were
conducted in October 2010.
These interviews allowed specific individuals to share their views regarding the
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing Haldimand County's
Lakeshore Area. Those interviewed included recreation and service club
representatives, business and restaurant owners, representatives from various
sectors including education, arts, culture and heritage, marina and tourist
operators, and representatives from the recreational facilities community.
These key informant interviews offered an initial glimpse of the issues and
opportunities for Haldimand from an individual vantage point.
25
3
3.2.2 Community Design Phase
Following the key informant interviews, the Consulting Team conducted a
number of Public Listening Sessions, held on September 1st and 2nd, 2010 in
Dunnville, Selkirk and Cayuga. Each of the initial Listening Sessions drew between
30 and 75 people – all with an interest in the future of Haldimand. The County
and the Consulting Team then hosted two Community Open Houses on June
23rd, 2011, to build upon the feedback received to date and gain insight into
what the community’s vision for the future of Haldimand's Lakeshore Area.
The individual interviews, focused facilitated sessions, and community open
houses provided the Consulting Team with a number of insights into the issues
and areas of opportunity for the Lakeshore Area.
3.2.3 Validation Phase
Throughout the planning process, County staff and members of the consulting
team checked in with the community to ensure that suggestions were
incorporated and ideas were understood. This process of continued validation
allowed not only the community to remain involved but also continually kept
up to date on the Consulting Team’s progress. Individual feedback and ideas
were welcomed via e-mail and through the County web site during the duration
of the project.
3
3.3 Key Findings
The inputs collected throughout the process have enabled the Consulting Team
to gain an insider's perspective into Haldimand's Lakeshore Area. A number of
community strengths and challenges have been identified, which have enabled
the Team to understand the issues and opportunities for the Lakeshore Area.
3.3.1 Community Strengths
Aesthetics
The Lakeshore Area is a beautiful lake setting, with views to and across Lake Erie.
There are abundant sandy beaches, with waters warmer than the other Great
Lakes. It is a quiet, tranquil and private area, “Ontario’s Best kept secret”.
Community
The community is filled with friendly people, community spirit and pride. There
is a strong history, such as Port Maitland (church). There are a number of cottage
associations that contribute to the community feel.
Unique Features
Haldimand County is home to a number of good tourist attractions, such as
Cottonwood Mansion, Ruthven, etc. There are exceptional Bed and Breakfasts
as well as a variety of other types of accommodations throughout the County.
Port Maitland (Lock 27) is an exciting major resource with a deep history in the
War of 1812 and the Welland Canal Feeder Route and Lock. The area boasts
three Provincial Parks, the Dunnville Dam Lock, the Grand River, Mernam Beach,
and it is located in proximity to Toronto and Hamilton.
Strengths of the Lakeshore
area include:
• Aesthetics
• Community
• Unique Features
• Recreation
• Ecological Features
Recreation
Lake Erie is considered one of the best fishing lakes. There is public right-of-way
ownership to lake's edge. There are a variety of easy bicycle routes in or near
the Lakeshore Area. There are also good walking routes.
Ecological Features
The Area is located in the Carolinian forest zone. The Lake Erie shoreline is a
migration routes for birds providing for a variety of wildlife and habitats,
including marshes / wetlands for birding activities.
27
3
3.3.2 Community Challenges
Challenges facing the
Lakeshore area include:
• Amenities and Facilities
• Property Ownership
• Parking and Roads
• Maintenance /
Enforcement
• Services
While there are many strengths of the Lakeshore Area, a number of challenges
also emerged; these include:
Amenities and Facilities
There is a lack of facilities, amenities and services such as public washrooms,
showers and changing facilities along the Lakeshore. In particular, children’s
facilities are limited. Wayfinding and signage is also in need of improvement.
Property Ownership
There is a limited amount of publicly-owned waterfront land available and / or
identified for public use along the Lakeshore Aree. There are privacy concerns
– with a demand for retaining privacy along the Lakeshore. Property owners
near Featherstone Beach have indicated that they have easements to the beach;
however, further review of the implications of these easement is necessary
before further design work is undertaken.
Parking / Roads
A lack of enforcement and signage regarding parking locations and vehicle
speeds along Lake Shore Road has been identified as a challenge., including a
lack of parking for waterfront areas. Vehicular traffic can be quite heavy during
summer months.
Maintenance / Enforcement
There is concern regarding excessive noise and pollution, while the perceived
policing of public lands at Lakeshore is lacking. There is a need for upkeep
and maintenance at the Provincial Parks in Haldimand County. Another
challenge relates to garbage collection and general maintenance of public land
/ buildings.
Services
A lack of municipal services in some areas, including water and sewer is a
challenge that would improve the Lakeshore Area. Some of the accommodation
facilities are out of date and in need of upgrading. While, the quality of services
could be improved for Restaurants, Accommodations, etc..
3
3.3.3 Key Findings Overview
Recognizing the strengths and identifying the opportunities that the challenges
offer, a number of specific suggestions and key findings emerged:
A tranquil and quiet community with a strong history Waterfront
property ownership is unclear in some areas Partner with Provincial
Parks Featherstone Point needs washrooms and change facilities
More walking trails Windmill projects are a concern James N. Allan
Provincial Park is a “hidden gem” Port Maitland and Lake Erie have
extensive history Infrastructure improvements needed We need
more rest areas/nodes for public access on Lake Erie Promote tourism
for small business development Speed and noise enforcement
needed along Lakeshore Beautiful views and vistas Winter tourism
Great fishing on Lake Erie More accommodations for visitors Great
community pride More signage needed Promote local food and
restaurants Fantastic bird watching opportunities Retain privacy
Control traffic volumes Noise problems from motorcycles.
In addition, a number of specific suggestions regarding the three key nodes
identified by the Consulting Team as an outcome of the Community Open
Houses. These included the following opportunities that have been incorporated
into the Lakescape Action Plan:
Featherstone Point
• Create a safe, shared Lakeshore Area with walkways and bike access to
promote active transportation and traffic calming
• Use native trees (Carolinian) for street tree planting
• Ensure parking area utilizes a permeable surface treatment to mitigate
flooding
• Enhance the existing rustic and natural feel of the Featherstone beach area
for resident's enjoyment and the preservation of wildlife
• Recognize the carrying capacity of the environment and the existing
concerns around water quality
• Improve the local amenities to ensure a high quality beach public area
(include more trash / recycling receptacles)
29
3
•
•
Ensure that public access points to the beach are clearly defined and
properly signed to ensure all private property is respected
Ensure proper retaining measures are implemented along the beach area to
prevent any further erosion
Port Maitland
• Create safe bicycle and pedestrian routes (utilizing those routes proposed
in Haldimand Trail Master Plan, 2009) to promote active transportation
• Recognize concerns that the water quality and undertow current near the
pier are not currently ideal for swimming
• Enhance the existing recreational features and functions (improve facilities
– upgraded washrooms, picnic shelter, playground, splash pad, enhanced
boat launch and parking area)
• Promote commercial business development (particularly food, retail) •
Consider donations for implementing certain aspects of the plan (benches,
trees, etc.)
• Ensure safety through enhanced signage and erosion control measures
• Promote the unique cultural heritage of Port Maitland (Church and
graveyard, war of 1812 history, Feeder Canal Lock, Grand River navigation,
etc.)
• Encourage non-motorized watercraft uses in the Port Maitland Area
• Utilize native trees for street tree planting
• Promote responsible fishing practices on pier and beyond
Summerhaven
• Promote this area for fishing and small boat launching
• Create safe roads with walkways and shared bicycle lanes to promote active
transportation
• Improve parking facilities to discourage people from parking on side of
road
• Utilize native, non-invasive species for naturalized planting area
• Consider the implementation of a bike route across a rebuild of the old,
original bridge
• Promote interpretive and educational elements in this area
• Ensure proper maintenance of this area to discourage dumping
4
Vision and Design Principles
4
4.1 Vision
The Lakescape Action Plan was developed through contextual analysis, in
consultation with the community, and building upon the vision established for
the Lakeshore area in the County's Official Plan (2006). This vision is as follows:
"To Plan for the north shore of Lake Erie in Haldimand
County to ensure it remains an asset for all residents
of the County and potential tourists to the Lakeshore
area."
Study Inspiration
33
4
4.2 Design Principles
Based on existing conditions analysis and inputs from the community, a number
of design themes have emerged that will guide the overall vision for Haldimand's
Lakeshore Area. These principles are as follows:
Identity
Promote a unique and significant identity.
Promote a unique and significant identity that
builds on the important natural environmental and
cultural heritage features of the Lakeshore Area.
Aesthetic improvements to develop a unique design
theme for parks and open space, streetscape, etc.,
is important for overall community beautification.
Creating a consistent theme to include wayfinding,
signage and street furniture, etc will define and unify
the community character.
Recreational Facilities
Provide multi-use community
recreational facilities and amenities.
Develop a number of facilities that will create the
opportunity for active transportation and recreation.
These facilities include a multi-use trail system along
the lakeshore with connections to surrounding open
space, points of interest and local communities;
upgraded facilities at Port Maitland; enhancements
at Featherstone Beach for public enjoyment; and
organized fishing area at Summerhaven.
4
Protect and enhance environmental features.
Haldimand County's Lakeshore Area has a number of
excellent natural features and Conservation Areas. These
assets could be leveraged to attract and promote sustainable
tourism within the area including bird watching, bicycling,
etc., consistent with the County's focus on protecting and
managing the natural environment.
Sustainable Tourism
Improve public access to the water's edge.
Provide places for public swimming, boat launching
and fishing, as well as places for passive recreational
uses including picnicking, viewing and informal
play at the water’s edge. Consider opportunities to
increase public awareness of access points to the
water on County-owned properties.
Access to the Waterfront
Economic
Development
Identify and promote year-round economic development
opportunities to encourage future growth.
Diversification of the employment base to include more
year-round employment opportunities is important to
economic prosperity. Promoting tourism development,
such as accommodations, services and amenities will not
only provide jobs but will increase tourism and visitors to
Haldimand County and the Lakeshore Area in particular.
Promote increased community partnerships between various
publicly- and privately-owned entities and businesses to
further enhance business development.
35
5
Action Plan Concept
Action Plan Concept
5
5.1 Concept Plan
The conceptual plan for the Lakeshore Area is based on the findings and values
expressed during the consultation process. It recognizes the Lakeshore's unique
seasonal demographic and location relative to the Greater Toronto-Hamilton
Area (GTHA) and Lake Erie. The Lakeshore is well positioned to serve as an
access point to the Great Lakes and the Grand River. Encouraging public access
and usage of the Lakeshore area in suitable areas and encouraging economic
development are key aspects of the plan.
The Concept for the Lakescape Action Plan identifies existing service centres,
potential development nodes, gateway locations, bicycle routes (as proposed
in the Trails Master Plan and Partnership Framework Study), as well as linkages
to the rest of the County. The potential development nodes identified are
publicly-owned lands and are categorized into primary, secondary and tertiary
nodes. The primary node (Port Maitland) provides ample opportunity to create a
community recreational focal point within the Lakeshore Area. Secondary nodes
include Featherstone Beach (also known as California Beach), Summerhaven
Area as well as the Provincial Parks and Conservation Area. These nodes provide
the opportunity to rejuvenate areas that are currently being utilized by the
public, and in the cases of Featherstone Point Beach and Summerhaven Area,
create beautified and organized areas for the public to enjoy Lake Erie.
39
5
Action Plan Concept
Brant County
City of Ham
Caledonia
Six Nations / New
Credit Reserve
Hagersville
Norfolk County
Cayuga
Jarvis
GRAND
Link To
Hagersville and
Caledonia
Link To Jarvis
Link To
Cayuga
Selkirk
Lambs
Corners
Nanticoke
R
Rainham
Centre
Swee
Corn
Lakeshore R
Link To Lynn
Valley Trail
(Norfolk County)
Nanticoke Boat
Launch / Fishing
Access
Haldimand
Conservation
Area
Selkirk
Provincial Park
Summerhaven
Fishing Area
Featherstone
Point Beach
Action Plan Concept
5
Lakescape Action Plan – Conceptual Diagram
milton
LEGEND
Potential
Development Nodes
(Primary, Secondary,
Tertiary)
Proposed Bicycle
Routes
Linkages within
County
Service Centres
(Primary, Secondary)
County Road #3
Gateway
In association with
Drawn by
a
D RIVER
Niagara Region
Bicycle Link
To Cayuga
eets
ners
Dunnville
Dunnville Farmer’s
Market
South
Cayuga
Road
Links To Trans Canada
Trail and Region of
Niagara Trails
Stromness
Abandoned
Canal Lock
Evans Point
Boat Launch
James N. Allan
Provincial Park +
Former Girl Guide
Camp Property
Port Maitland
Rock Point
Provincial Park
Lowbanks Boat
Launch
41
5
Action Plan Concept
5.2 Development Nodes Concepts
The Action Plan concept includes several key elements:
Port Maitland Improvements
•
Provide enhanced community access points to the beach, park and pier
from the street and parking area
•
Promote a civic identity and sense of pride
•
Enhance the parking area, boat launch and beach access points
•
Improve the beach facilities to include washrooms and change rooms
•
Improve the park facilities to include new and / or upgraded playground,
picnic shelter, boardwalk, seating areas, etc.
•
Provide interpretive signage regarding the historical value of the area
LEGEND
Existing Wetlands
Parking Area Improvements
Boardwalk
Streetscape Improvements
Park/Open space improvements
Beach Access Improvements / Signage
Proposed on-road Bicycling Route
Proposed Barge Connection
Enhanced Pedestrian Route
Interpretive elements (heritage) –
War of 1812, Grand River, etc
Signage/Identity/Gateway
Look-out / Viewing Platform w/ seating
Proposed Concession w/ Washrooms/
Change room
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
P
Playground improvements – Waterplay /
Senior /Junior Play
Picnic shelter
Boat Launch Improvements
Beach Enhancements: cleanup
Look-out Platform w/Seating Area
Enhanced Dock Area
Feeder Canal Interpretation
Proposed Angle Parking (10 Spaces)
Action Plan Concept
5
Summerhaven Area Improvements
•
Provide improved public vehicular and boat trailer parking area
•
Ensure improved public access and passive recreation facilities
•
Provide enhanced viewing points / rest nodes and improved beach access
•
Enhance facilities for small craft boat launch, picnic area, fishing platform
•
Include interpretive signage for educational value
LEGEND
Existing Waterway
Park/Open space improvements
Proposed Shared On-road Bike Route
Alternative Bicycling Route
Proposed Bridge/Trail Connection
Interpretive elements (Natural Heritage)
~ Beach Ecology
gy
Viewing Area w/ Bench seating
Proposed Fishing Platform w/Seating
1. Turning Circle/Drop-off Area and Boat Launch
and Beach Access Improvements
2. Bridge /Trail Improvements
3. Rest Node/Viewing Areas
4. Gateway/Signage Improvements
P Proposed Parking Improvements
(w/11 Spaces @Drop-off and 10 Parallel Spaces
off roadway
43
5
Action Plan Concept
Featherstone Beach Improvements
•
Enhance public parking area through formal organization
•
Include designated public pedestrian access points through signage
and pedestrian crossing zones
•
Enhanced viewing points / rest nodes
•
Improve beach access for public use
•
Provide interpretive signage
LEGEND
+
+
Deciduous Tree Planting
Flowering Tree Planting
Proposed Shared On-road Bike Route
Interpretive elements
(Natural Heritage) – Beach Ecology
Rest Node w/ seating
1.
2.
Pedestrian Link to Parking
Pedestrian Link to Community
P
Proposed Angle Parking
(20 Spaces)
Action Plan Concept
5
Streetscape Improvements at Key Nodes
•
Defined walkway area and crosswalk demarcations for pedestrians
•
Provide street lighting and banners, where appropriate
•
Include street tree planting, where appropriate
•
Enhance shared on-road bicycle route
Defined Gateways and Lakeshore Signage
•
Provide entry gateway feature identification near the east and west
limits of the County's Lakeshore Area
•
Include consistent signage for the identification and delineation of
County-owned lands available for public use
These concepts were presented to the community and further refined to
develop the fundamental components of the Action Plan, as described within
this report.
45
6
Key Node Design Guidelines
6
6.1 Design Themes
Design themes that are deeply rooted in the natural and cultural heritage of
the place are most relevant and valid. Many of these design themes can be
found locally in the landscape. The north shore of Lake Erie and the Grand
River both have an extensive cultural history, apparent natural beauty as well
as sustainable ecological tourism opportunities. Based on these thematic
opportunities unique to Haldimand's Lakeshore Area, the Consulting Team has
developed a list of words and imagery that provides a palette as the basis for
developing the design themes.
Natural Environment
• Lake Erie
• Grand River
• Conservation Areas
Local History
• Fishing + Boating
• War of 1812
• Lighthouse + Pier
Ecological Tourism
•
•
•
Trails
Bird watching
Wetlands
49
6
6.2 Port Maitland
Port Maitland is centrally located within the Lakeshore Area at the mouth of the Grand
River. This area is currently used for a number of both passive and active recreational
activities. Port Maitland is envisioned to have enhanced facilities including splash pad
and play area, changeroom and washroom facilities, concession stand, upgraded boat
launch, picnic areas, boardwalk and a re-organized parking area.
LEGEND
Existing Wetlands
Boardwalk
++
Streetscape Planting
+
+
Park/Open space Improvements
Beach Improvements
Proposed Shared On-road
Bike Route
5
Parking ?Boat Launch Kiosk
2
Proposed Concession
Improvements w/ Washrooms/
Change room
Proposed Bench Seating
Proposed Group Seating
w/Tables
1.
Senior /Junior Playground
improvements
Waterplay Area
Picnic shelter
Viewing Platform w/Seating and
Interpretation Signage
Beach Enhancements: cleanup
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
P
1
3
P
4
6
Proposed Parking Improvements
(@25 Spaces) w/Pull Through
Spaces for Boat Trailers (@5
Spaces)
25
0
25
50
75
100
125 m
6
Precedent Images
51
6
6.3 Summerhaven Area
This area, located at the mouth of Selkirk Creek, is currently used as a popular fishing and boat
launching area. The proposed design for this key node will provide overall organization of
space and re-naturalization of the open area. Create an organized vehicle and boat trailer
parking area near the upgraded boat launch, develop boardwalk pathways for access across
the naturalized areas to the lookout points and beach area, and incorporate site furnishings
will enhance the overall character of the development node. It is noted that not all land in the
proposed development node is in public ownership at the present time, some land acquisition
would be required.
6
Precedent Images
53
6
6.4 Featherstone Point Beach
This area, located to the west of Featherstone Point between Lakeshore Road and Lake Erie, is
currently used by local residents and the public as a swimming beach. The proposed design
for this area will formalize and organize the public parking area, clearly demarcate public
walkways to the beach including pedestrian crosswalks, and improve access and signage.
Other improvements include streetscape enhancements with pedestrian walkways and street
tree planting, lookouts / rest nodes with views to the Lake, interpretive elements related to
heritage features of the area and Lake Erie, and identity / area gateway signage.
It was noted during the consultation process that property owners near Featherstone Beach
indicated that there are private easements to the beach; however, further review of the
implications of these easement is necessary before further design work is undertaken.
LEGEND
+
+
Beach Access Improvements /
Signage
Proposed Bicycling Route
Rest Node w/ seating
1.
2.
3.
4.
P
Pedestrian Link to Parking
Pedestrian Link to Community
Potential Pedestrian Node
w/Flowering Trees
Wood Deck Rest Node/Viewing
Platforms w/bench seating
Proposed Angle Parking
(20 Spaces)
10
0
10
20
30
40
50 m
6
Precedent Images
A
LEGEND
1.
5
2 3
1
4
Rest Node/Viewing Platforms
w/bench seating
Shared Walkway
Street Tree Planting Along
Beach Frontage
R.O.W and Road w/Shared
Bicycle Route
Flowering Trees @Pedestrian
Entrance Nodes
2.
3.
4.
A
5.
KEY PLAN
3
5
2
5
4
1
SECTION A~A
THROUGH PEDESTRIAN ENTRANCE/REST NODE
1
0
1
2
3
4
5m
55
7
Implementation Strategy
7
7.1 Implementation Priorities
In total, three site development plans were prepared by the Consulting Team.
High levels of support were expressed by the public at the Open House
Meeting, held on June 23rd, 2011, for the development plans proposed at Port
Maitland and Summerhaven. Suggestions and refinements for these areas have
been incorporated into the plans (see Report Section 5.0 and 6.0 for details).
Concerns were expressed about beach development at the Featherstone Beach
(California Beach) area. As was noted during the consultation process, property
owners near Featherstone Beach indicated that there are private easements to
the beach; therefore, further review of the implications of these easement is
necessary before further design work is undertaken.
Based on this feedback, two priority projects were identified at Port Maitland
and Summerhaven. The Port Maitland Waterfront Park, represents a major
investment ($1.5 - 2.0 million), and will require some time and significant
capital funding to achieve. However, the concept plan does allow for phased
implementation to occur so that key components can be build over a multi-year
development program.
The Summerhaven Park site also represents a significant capital program, but is
achievable over a shorter multi-year period. Priorities here include a major site
clean-up and development of the organized parking, boat launch, fishing pier,
and day-use areas. It is noted that not all land in the proposed development
node at Summerhaven is in public ownership at the present time, and some
land acquisition would be required.
Development of the public beach facilities at Featherstone Beach (California
Beach) is a lower priority.
59
7
7.2 Development Costs
7.2.1 Port Maitland Preliminary Order of Magnitude Estimates
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.0
2.1
2.1.1
2.1.2
2.1.3
2.1.4
Development Area/Item
Quantity
Unit
Unit Cost
Total
Signage/Identity/Gateways
Minor Gateway
Identity Signage
Interpretive Signage
2
2
2
ea
ea
ea
$
3,000.00
$
5,000.00
$
2,500.00
Area Total
$6,000.00
$10,000.00
$5,000.00
$21,000.00
2000
20
20
84
lm
ea
ea
ea
$
36.00
$
5,000.00
$
250.00
$
300.00
Area Total
$72,000.00
$100,000.00
$5,000.00
$25,200.00
$202,200.00
1000
10
10
40
lm
ea
ea
ea
$
36.00
$
5,000.00
$
250.00
$
300.00
Area Total
$36,000.00
$50,000.00
$2,500.00
$12,000.00
$100,500.00
450
2
8
2
2
8
m2
ea
ea
ea
ea
ea
$
35.00
$
2,500.00
$
1,500.00
$
1,250.00
$
1,000.00
$
300.00
Area Total
$15,750.00
$5,000.00
$12,000.00
$2,500.00
$2,000.00
$2,400.00
$39,650.00
Streetscape Works:
Major Streets (@ two sides)
Asphalt Sidewalk
Lighting
Banners
Trees
2.2
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.2.3
2.2.4
Minor Streets (@ one side)
Asphalt Sidewalk
Lighting
3.0
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
Beach Access Improvements:
Banners
Trees
Parking Improvements (@10 spaces)
Interpretive/Signage
Picnic tables/benches
Trash/Recycle
Bike Storage
Trees
4.0
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.3.1
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.7.1
4.7.2
4.7.3
4.7.4
4.8
4.9
4.9.1
4.9.2
4.10
4.10.1
4.10.2
Park Improvements:
Parking Area Improvements (Granular)
Identity/Interpretive Signage
Boardwalk
Pier/Viewing Platform
Parks Facility Building/Concessions
Asphalt Walkway
Site Furniture
Benches
Cluster Seating/Sun Shades
Trash/Recycle
Bike Storage
Gazebo
Play Areas
Junior/Senior Play Area
Water Play Area
Trees
Trees (@Parking Area)
Trees (@Play Area)
5.0
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
Other Site Improvements:
Enhanced Dock Area
Look-out/Viewing Platform
Benches
Trash/Recycle
Bike Storage
7
2500
3
1500
1
1
1
240
m2
ea
m2
ea
ea
ea
lm
$
35.00
$
2,500.00
$
300.00
$ 20,000.00
$ 500,000.00
$ 30,000.00
$
36.00
15
5
4
2
1
ea
ea
ea
ea
ea
$
$
$
$
$
1,750.00
2,500.00
1,250.00
1,000.00
50,000.00
$26,250.00
$12,500.00
$5,000.00
$2,000.00
$50,000.00
1
1
ea
ea
$ 75,000.00
$ 150,000.00
$75,000.00
$150,000.00
15
30
ea
ea
$
300.00
$
500.00
Area Total
$4,500.00
$15,000.00
$1,443,890.00
1
4
8
4
8
ea
ea
ea
ea
ea
$ 50,000.00
$ 20,000.00
$
1,750.00
$
1,250.00
$
1,000.00
Area Total
$50,000.00
$80,000.00
$14,000.00
$5,000.00
$8,000.00
$157,000.00
Sub-Total
HST (@13%)
$87,500.00
$7,500.00
$450,000.00
$20,000.00
$500,000.00
$30,000.00
$8,640.00
$1,964,240.00
$255,351.20
$2,219,591.20
61
7
7.2.2 Summerhaven Preliminary Order of Magnitude Estimates
Quantity
Unit
Unit Cost
Total
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
Minor Gateway
Identity Signage
1
2
2
ea
ea
ea
$
3,000.00
$
5,000.00
$
2,500.00
Area Total
$3,000.00
$10,000.00
$5,000.00
$18,000.00
2.0
2.1
2.1.1
Streetscape Works:
Major Streets (@ two sides) (@500 lm)
Trees
80
ea
$
300.00
Area Total
$24,000.00
$24,000.00
3.0
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
Beach Access Improvements:
On-street Parking (@10 spaces)
Identity Signage
Beach Clean-up
Naturalized Planting
Trees
380
2
1
250
7
m2
ea
ea
m2
ea
$
35.00
$
2,500.00
$
5,000.00
$
40.00
$
300.00
Area Total
$13,300.00
$5,000.00
$5,000.00
$10,000.00
$2,100.00
$35,400.00
4.0
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.3.1
4.4
4.5
4.5.1
4.5.2
4.5.3
4.5.4
4.6
4.70
Drop-off/Parking Improvements:
Parking Area Improvements (Granular)
Walkway
Viewing/Fishing Platform
Site Furniture
Benches
Picnic tables/benches
Trash/Recycle
Bike Storage
1250
3
365
1
1
m2
ea
lm
ea
ea
$
$
$
$
$
35.00
2,500.00
15.00
20,000.00
30,000.00
$43,750.00
$7,500.00
$5,475.00
$20,000.00
$30,000.00
8
9
3
2
250
16
ea
ea
ea
ea
m2
ea
$
1,750.00
$
1,500.00
$
1,250.00
$
1,000.00
$
40.00
$
300.00
Area Total
$14,000.00
$13,500.00
$3,750.00
$2,000.00
$10,000.00
$4,800.00
$154,775.00
5.0
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
Other Site Improvements:
Bridge Connection
Benches
Trash/Recycle
Bike Storage
1
4
2
2
ea
ea
ea
ea
$ 50,000.00
$
1,750.00
$
1,250.00
$
1,000.00
Area Total
$50,000.00
$7,000.00
$2,500.00
$2,000.00
$61,500.00
Sub-Total
HST (@13%)
$293,675.00
$38,177.75
$331,852.75
7
7.2.3 Featherstone Beach Preliminary Order of Magnitude Estimates
Quantity
Unit
Unit Cost
Total
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
Minor Gateway
Identity Signage
2
2
1
ea
ea
ea
$
3,000.00
$
5,000.00
$
2,500.00
Area Total
$6,000.00
$10,000.00
$2,500.00
$18,500.00
2.0
2.1
2.1.1
Minor Streets (@one side) (@350 lm)
Trees @Key Points
20
ea
$
300.00
Area Total
$6,000.00
$6,000.00
3.0
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
Beach/Access Improvements:
Directional Signage
Rest Node w/Shoreline Protection
Beach Clean-up
Benches
Trash/Recycle
Bike Storage
2
3
1
6
2
2
ea
ea
ea
ea
ea
ea
$
2,500.00
$ 40,000.00
$
5,000.00
$
1,750.00
$
1,250.00
$
1,000.00
Area Total
$5,000.00
$120,000.00
$5,000.00
$10,500.00
$2,500.00
$2,000.00
$145,000.00
4.0
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
Parking Area Improvements (@20 spaces)
Lighting
Bike Storage
750
4
1
1
750
14
m2
ea
ea
ea
m2
ea
$
35.00
$
5,000.00
$
2,500.00
$
1,000.00
$
40.00
$
300.00
Area Total
$26,250.00
$20,000.00
$2,500.00
$1,000.00
$30,000.00
$4,200.00
$83,950.00
Streetscape Works:
Parking Improvements:
Sub-Total
HST (@13%)
$253,450.00
$32,948.50
$286,398.50
63
A1
Appendix 1 - Planning Framework
Review
Haldimand County Lakescape Action Plan | Phase 1 Report
Appendix 1
A1
A1.1 Haldimand County Official Plan (2006)
The Haldimand County Official Plan was prepared by the County's Planning and
Economic Development Department. It was adopted by council on June 26,
2006 and was provincially approved on June 8, 2009. The Official Plan lays out
the framework for land use changes within the County to 2026. This framework
focuses on protecting and managing the natural environment, directing growth
patterns and facilitating the vision of the County, as expressed through its
residents. The Plan is based on six strategic directions with principles for each
theme including:
The Official Plan focuses on
protecting and managing the
natural environment, directing
growth patterns and facilitating
the vision of the County, as
expressed through its residents.
Environment
• Natural environmental areas form part of three watersheds, all
significantly tied to Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.
• Develop strategic partnerships with government agencies, conservation
groups, land trusts and property owners to support future management,
preservation and enhancement of the natural landscape and beauty.
Economy
• Maintain, stimulate and expand appropriate sectors of the County’s
economy to ensure strong corporate community.
• Stimulate commercial and industrial interests / areas for growth (i.e.,
tourism), through allocation of resources for a strong, diverse economy.
Growth Management
• Enhance growth opportunities while maintaining / enhancing
appropriate level of service (physical infrastructure and social services).
Community Building
• Encourage residents and corporate citizens to work cooperatively to
create a great place to live, work and play.
Leisure, Culture and Heritage
• Establish opportunities (for residents and visitors) for leisure and
exploring County’s heritage and history.
• Strategically maximize built and natural leisure resources.
67
A1 Appendix 1
Health and Social Services
• Promote inter-relationship of health and social agencies within and
outside of County.
Each of these strategic directions has a number of policies related to it as well.
A summary of the environmental policies as they relate to the Lakeshore area
follows:
• Development adjacent to Haldimand County’s watercourses should
only be permitted if it will not have significant impact on the watershed,
including cross-jurisdictional and cross-watershed impacts.
• No new development or site alteration shall be permitted within a
Provincially Significant Wetlands (PSW) except those uses which are
sustainable, compatible and complimentary to the wetlands and its
functions.
• Permitted uses for Natural Environment Areas that are not Provincially
Significant Wetlands or Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species
and on those lands adjacent to these Natural Environment Areas, shall
be limited to the following:
a) established agricultural operations on existing cleared areas;
b) forestry and facilities for the production of maple syrup;
c) existing residences;
d) construction of a dwelling or structure on an existing lot of
record subject to the relevant policies contained in this Plan, and
an Environmental Impact Study requiring conservation authority
approval that ensures the residence is located, designed and
constructed so that no negative impacts on the natural features or
their ecological functions occur;
e) wildlife, wetland or fishery management projects;
f ) outdoor education or research activities; and
g) recreational activities which do not require site alteration such
as buildings/structures, landscaping, grading, filling or the removal
of natural vegetation so that no negative impacts on the natural
features or their ecological functions occur.
• Enhance a regional natural environment system by linking it with local
public open space through trails and corridors.
Appendix 1
Interim policies relating to the Lakeshore area are as follows:
• Preserve open nature of the Lakeshore by limiting development to
designated areas. Scenic roads, public vistas and landscapes along the
shore will be identified and protected.
• Maintain public access and usage of the Lakeshore area.
• Recreation and public open space shall be encouraged along the
Lakeshore, in suitable areas. These recreational resources should be
protected and enhanced.
• Public access to public beaches should be encouraged where
appropriate.
• Residential development should occur in designated nodes and should
generally be seasonal rather than year-round. Small-scale, resortoriented commercial facilities will also be allowed.
Policies relating to parks and open space include:
• Encourage private recreational development, such as Lakefront parks to
compliment County recreational opportunities.
• Encourage development of pedestrian and non-motorized trail system
to connect parks and open spaces to transportation corridors and other
natural areas.
• Protect public vistas to Lake Erie and the Grand River by imposing
appropriate setbacks and open corridors and preserving existing public
land along strategic location on the shoreline for scenic views.
A1
Key Policies:
•
Scenic roads, public vistas
and landscapes along the
shore will be identified and
protected.
•
Maintain public access and
usage of the Lakeshore
area.
•
Public open space is
encouraged along the
Lakeshore in suitable areas.
•
Public access to public
beaches should be
encouraged where
appropriate.
69
A1 Appendix 1
A1.2 Trails Master Plan & Partnership Framework Study (2009)
The overall vision for trails
in Haldimand County is “a
continuous network of trails
connecting people and places of
interest in Haldimand County”.
The Haldimand County Trails Master Plan and Partnership Framework Study was
completed in June 2009 by Stantec and Monteith Brown Planning Consultants.
This Study provides the framework for an integrated trail network and to guide
the County towards linking trail systems within the Trans Canada Trail system and
establishing priorities for trail locations and development and partnerships for
community stakeholders. This plan will guide trail development and establish
priorities for trail development over the next 10-15 years. As noted in the Study,
Haldimand County contains over 30 kilometres of registered Trans Canada Trail,
however, they are not yet formally developed as active trails. The overall vision
for trails in Haldimand County is “a continuous network of trails connecting
people and places of interest in Haldimand County”.
The trail network concept or hierarchy proposed within this Study consists of
three levels:
• County-Wide Route;
• Local System Route; and
• Special-Use Route.
The Trail Network Concept depicts a proposed Special Use Route along a
majority of the length of Lake Shore Road. Special-Use Routes include routes
in locations that may require special design treatment due to site conditions,
such as ecological sensitivity or they cater to specific uses. These routes, when
on-road would typically consist of signed recreational / scenic cycling routes on
low volume, low speed rural roads; this is the condition found along Lake Shore
Road.
Recommended Trail Network: Lakeshore Area
Appendix 1
A1
One of the key routes within the proposed trail system is described as follow
“a scenic on-road cycling route generally following the north coast of Lake Erie
from Lowbanks to Port Maitland, northwest into Dunnville, across the Grand
River, south to the Lake Erie Coast, westerly along the coast to Selkirk, along
Rainham Road, then along New Lake Shore Road into Port Dover”. The document
specifies that prior to establishing the Lakeshore Trail, an assessment of the road
conditions and safety will be undertaken.
The document outlines the Recommended Trail Network and Implementation
for a number of special areas, one of which is the Port Maitland Area. The trail
network in the Port Maitland area consists primarily of scenic cycling routes that
are part of the overall network for Haldimand County. Key routes within Port
Maitland are:
• A terminus for the Grand River water route at the public boat launch off
Port Maitland Road.
• A local loop on the west side of the Grand River using Port Maitland
Road, Dover Street and Kings Row which provides access to the public
boat launch and beach at the mouth of the Grand.
• A local route on the east side of the Grand River using Feeder Canal
Road, Grand River Line, Becky Line, Erie Line, and Siddall Line.
Existing and Proposed Trails
71
A1 Appendix 1
•
•
•
Route along Feeder Canal Road providing interpretive access to
abandoned Canal lock near intersection of Feeder Canal Road / Siddall
Line.
Route along Niece Road providing access to Rock Point Provincial Park.
A Mouth of the Grand Route using Haldimand Road 3, Feeder Canal
Road, a water route/water taxi from the mouth of the Feeder Canal to
the public boat launch on the west side of the River, and Port Maitland
Road north into Dunnville.
The priorities for implementation are:
• Completing the connection to the existing Wainfleet Trail (Trans Canada
Trail) via a route along Canal Bank Road.
• Enter into discussions with the Region of Niagara about including the
route along Canal Bank Road and Feeder Canal Road to the confluence
with the Grand River as part of their Welland Canal trail system.
• Using Niagara Region’s Port Robinson Ferry as a model, investigate
the potential to provide a seasonal water taxi (private entrepreneurial
opportunity) from the terminus of the Feeder Canal to the public boat
launch on the west side of the Grand River.
• Work with Ontario Parks to develop trail connections to Provincial Parks
(Rock Point east of Port Maitland, James N. Allan west of Port Maitland).
Maintenance requirements and partnership opportunities
for County trails are described within this study as well.
Recommended Trail Network: Port Maitland
Appendix 1
A1
A1.3 Strategic Master Plan for Leisure Services & Facilities (2006)
The Strategic Master Plan for Leisure Services and Facilities for Haldimand
County was completed by Monteith Brown Planning Consultants and The JF
Group, and was approved by County Council in June 2006.
The Strategic Master Plan defines current and future leisure program, service
and facility needs to the year 2021, identifying what Haldimand County should
be providing, where these facilities should be located, when they will be
required, and how they should ultimately be delivered and implemented.
A number of guiding principles are defined and are intended to guide the
development and implementation of the Plans’ recommendations. Some of
these guiding principles are described below:
• Waterfront – Protect the Grand River and Lake Erie shorelines and
provide appropriate public access to the water so that everyone can
safely enjoy these natural features that define the County;
• Tourism – Promote the beauty of Haldimand County to others
by enhancing the abundant natural amenities, developing an
infrastructure capable of providing a pleasurable tourist experience
and marketing opportunities to non-residents;
• Connectivity – Identify and capitalize upon opportunities that would
improve physical connectivity within and between communities (and
along the waterfront), such as the establishment of a comprehensive
trail network.
"Provide appropriate public
access to the water so that
everyone can safely enjoy these
natural features"
"Promote the beauty of
Haldimand County to others"
"Improve physical connectivity
within and between
communities and along the
waterfront".
Section 8.6 of the Strategic Master Plan is dedicated to the assessment of
Waterfront Areas and Boat Launches. Within this section it is suggested that the
County should “consider developing its waterfront infrastructure to place boat
launches, piers, beaches, etc. in suitable locations in order to encourage use of
the water”. Currently, within the Lakescape Action Plan study area there are
two public boat launches, both located in Port Maitland; one at Port Maitland
Esplanade Park, the other at Port Maitland East Park. A commercial boat launch
is located within the Haldimand Conservation Area as well.
There are four officially recognized public beaches with the study area, along
the Haldimand County shoreline; these are found at Rock Point Provincial
Park, James N. Allan Provincial Park, Haldimand Conservation Area, and a
73
A1 Appendix 1
small beach located on the west side of the mouth of the Grand River in Port
Maitland. This Master Plan recognizes that there is limited direct access to
the waterfront, inadequate parking facilities, and increased traffic volumes.
The Strategic Master Plan also recognizes the need for proper signage to identify
public open spaces. It is a recommendation of the Plan to develop consistent
signage for County parks and install signs at each public access point, park and
trailhead.
Esplanade Park Location, Port Maitland
The only park facility identified within the Strategic Master Plan located on
the shore of Lake Erie is Esplanade Park at Port Maitland. This is classified as
a Neighbourhood Park and is passive in nature. This park currently has the
following amenities: portable washroom facility, playground, creative play,
pathways, parking, boat launch and swings. There is a concrete boardwalk that
turns into a pier that leads to the lighthouse.
Recommendations from the Strategic Master Plan relative to the Lakeshore area
Appendix 1
A1
A1.4 Economic Development Strategic Plan (2006)
In 2002, a corporate strategic plan was completed for Haldimand County. In
2004, Haldimand County Council endorsed the Haldimand County Community
Strategic Directions document.
The Haldimand County Community Strategic Directions document includes six
core themes with directions for the following: Environment; Economy; Growth
Management; Community Building; Leisure; and Health and Social Services.
In 2006, the Planning and Economic Development Department moved the
Haldimand County Community Strategic Directions one step further as the
Tourism, Economic Development, and Heritage and Culture divisions each
undertook specific strategic plans to advance the directions of their specific
focus within Haldimand County.
The Economic Development Strategic Plan, completed in 2006, consists of a
focus statement and five overall goals representing the key areas of the economy
(agriculture, commercial/retail, education, industry and transportation). The
focus statement of the Economic Development Strategic Plan is as follows:
“Haldimand County is committed to protecting and building its diverse local
economy by creating an environment where valuable employment opportunities
for both current and future residents exist.”
Three phases where undertaken in the development of the plan:
Phase 1: Background Report which provided a current snap shot of the local
economy. The Background Report was completed in May 2005 and formed
the basis for the decisions made in phase two of the Economic Development
Strategic Plan process.
“Haldimand County is
committed to protecting
and building its diverse local
economy by creating an
environment where valuable
employment opportunities
for both current and future
residents exist.”
Phase 2: Draft Economic Development Strategic Plan. The draft Economic
Development Strategic Plan provided a focus statement, goals, objectives
and action plans including lead agencies and partners to strengthen the local
economy of Haldimand County.
Phase 3: Formalization and Implementation of the Economic Development
Strategic Plan.
75
A1 Appendix 1
The goals and objectives outlined by the economic development strategic plan
are as follows:
Agriculture
Goal - Revitalize the agricultural industry and community in Haldimand
County.
Objectives:
• Ensure that ongoing dialogue exists between the County and the
agricultural community
• Encourage the continued development of value-added agriculture and
specialty crops
• Encourage future employment in agriculture
• Promote the local and global selling of agricultural products
Commercial/Retail
Goal - Enhance retail and commercial opportunities in Haldimand County.
Objectives:
• Maintain a communications network that promotes the free flow of
information between local businesses and Haldimand County
• Create Haldimand Downtown Community Improvement Plans
• Enhance business retention and expansion programs
• Support initiatives to enhance telecommunications in Haldimand
County
• Support initiatives for affordable housing in Haldimand County
• Continue to market Haldimand County as a venue for filming
Education
Goal – Encourage and support the availability of a comprehensive education
network for Haldimand County residents.
Objectives:
• Continue to promote life-long learning in Haldimand County
• Promote local employment opportunities in Haldimand County
Appendix 1
A1
Industry
Goal - Foster healthy and vibrant industrial activities in Haldimand County.
Objectives:
• Retain and assist existing industries
• Assist with developing appropriate infrastructure and facilities for
industrial lands within Haldimand County
• Attract new industries
• Promote all industrial lands within Haldimand County
• Support the development of environmentally responsible industries
• Develop an inventory of all industrial brown fields
Transportation
Goal - Improve transportation linkages inside and outside Haldimand County.
Objectives:
• Improve Highway 6 transportation corridor
• Support initiatives for a Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to Niagara
transportation corridor
• Assist with development of Freight Ferry in Nanticoke
• Improve road signs in Haldimand County
• Support current and future rail corridors into industrial areas
• Explore economic opportunities to and from the Hamilton and Dunnville
Airports
• Improve Haldimand Road 3 transportation corridor
• Create an inventory
The plan outlines a number of action items and identifies the partners involved
in realizing each of these actions. The plan also sets out a time frame and
schedule of activities from year 1 of the plan (2006) to year 10 (2015).
Recent successes derived from the strategic planning process include a
Downtown Financial Incentives Community Improvement Plan, Harvests of
Haldimand, Tourism Product Development and the Caledonia Farmers Market.
77
A1 Appendix 1
The value of the economic development strategy process to the current exercise
at the Lakeshore is demonstrated through these goals and actions – the
Lakeshore is a key asset, underutilized from a County economic development
perspective, complicated with a mix of property rights, easements and historic
patterns of use by residents and visitors, and lacking key nodes of activity along
its entire length. However, beyond this micro- assessment of the study area, an
effective tourism strategy for the study area cannot be divorced from the broader
strategy which has taken shape in recent years for the County as whole:
• The focus on downtown reinvestment through community improvement
planning;
• The commitment to marketing the brands that exist within the County
as a whole – the Grand River, the food and agricultural products sector,
and events and festivals - is essential to the success of the investments
which can occur along the Lakeshore.
Beyond the County, there are important questions related to how the newly
formed Regional Tourism Zone 1 (RT1) can contribute to the development of
tourism in Haldimand County as part of a larger offering of tourism experiences
in Southwestern Ontario. Phase 2 of the Lakescape Plan which will address
development and product options, will include an assessment of how the
different levels of strategic planning should be integrated to ensure that the
improvement of the Lakeshore is part of a zero sum game between the different
jurisdictions within the broader region.
Appendix 1
A1
A1.5 Premier Ranked Tourist Destination Framework (2007)
The Premier Ranked Tourist Destination program was an initiative developed
by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism in 2001. The Ministry of Tourism established
the Premier Ranked Tourist Destinations Framework tool to assist municipalities
with assessing and developing their tourism product. Premier Ranked is not a
formal tourism designation but rather is an internal tourism goal for a destination
to work towards as it relates to becoming “better than the rest”.
Premier Ranked is not a formal
tourism designation but rather
is an internal tourism goal for a
This framework assists jurisdictions in assessing their tourist assets, attractions destination to work towards as it
and amenities and allows them to identify opportunities in tourism development. relates to becoming “better than
A partnership approach between Haldimand County, Norfolk County and the St. the rest”.
Thomas-Elgin Tourist Association established in order to successfully complete
this project.
The study includes an assessment of three specific dimensions of tourism:
1. The product dimension
2. The performance dimension
3. The futurity dimension
The common core and supporting attractors identified regionally include:
1. Outdoor recreation
2. Small towns, villages, rural landscapes
3. Water based experiences, Lake Erie coast
4. Heritage
5. Agri-tourism
Some of the core attractors specific to Haldimand County include:
1. Autoracing and motor sports
2. Outdoor recreation: canoeing / kayaking, birding
3. Heritage: Historic Sites and Events
A number of issues for tourism attraction and operation have been identified as
generally common throughout the region, these include:
1. Attractors have limited appeal to guests beyond Ontario’s borders
2. Most tourism experiences are not available on a year-round basis
3. Few dining establishments have name recognition outside of the area
4. Most shopping experiences in the region do not have name recognition
beyond the region
79
A1 Appendix 1
5. Transportation options other than a personal vehicle are limited
6. Survey data of visitor opinion is limited
The three partnering counties recognize the benefits of a collective approach to
tourism planning and development. As such, the lead Destination Management
Organizations (DMO) in the area have identified three fundamental objectives
for furthering the future of tourism:
1. Increase the total number of visitors who come to the Elgin, Haldimand
and Norfolk area by 2% by 2011 (40,000 visitors)
2. Increase the total tourism receipts generated from visitors to the area by
3% by 20100 ($2.3 million)
3. Using the information found in this report, develop two new product /
experience initiatives that will be “market ready” and can go to market
by January 2009
As a result of the assessment, four recommendations and strategies
were derived in order to meet the objectives illustrated above. These
recommendations and strategies are as follows:
1. Norfolk, Elgin and Haldimand Counties must agree to and adopt a longterm and flexible working relationship in order to achieve individual
and collective goals of the region’s tourism industry.
2. Focus attention on developing the unique agri-tourism and culinary
tourism experiences that are available in the area over the next 18
months and develop a series of new or enhanced agri-tourism and
culinary tourism experiences.
3. Grow the accommodation options – continue to encourage
development of new roofed accommodations and capitalize on the
camping and RV accommodation options available in the area by
encouraging enhancement to existing product and encouraging the
development of new operations.
4. With input from existing advisory bodies and stakeholder, collectively
analyze the opportunities in focusing specific attention to the rubber
tire tourism market and specifically identify and determine what is
required from a product enhancement perspective to attract more of
this market to the three county areas.
Each of the recommendations and strategies is supported by recommended
actions and considerations as well as data in support of the recommendation.
Appendix 1
A1
A1.6 The Lakeshore Area Study (2004)
The Lakeshore Area Study, completed by Haldimand County’s Department of
Planning and Economic Development, is intended to determine the general
profile of the north shore of Lake Erie within Haldimand County, to plan the
shoreline appropriately for residents and visitors. This report provides a
comprehensive overview of the Lakeshore area background, issues and options
and recommendations for the future.
Currently, there are three County parks within the Lakeshore area-Lakeshore Park,
Selkirk Park and Esplanade Park; 1 conservation area–Haldimand Conservation
Authority Park; and 3 Provincial parks–Rock Point, Selkirk and James N. Allan.
The study notes that it is important to consider the following assets when
developing the Lakeshore:
•
•
•
The range of conservation areas and provincial parks along Lakeshore;
The open vistas; and,
The pier and recreational opportunities at Port Maitland.
The Lakeshore Area Study is
intended to determine the
general profile of the north
shore of Lake Erie within
Haldimand County, to plan
the shoreline appropriately for
residents and visitors.
Preservation and development of the Lakeshore as an asset is an issue identified
in the study. Encouraging facilities and services that will draw tourists to the
area and maintaining / providing public access to the lakefront is important.
Recommendations for this issue include:
• Enhance strategic partnerships with agencies managing conservation
areas and provincial parks along Lakeshore;
• Direct additional accommodation opportunities to Lakeshore nodes,
communities and significant sites;
• Protect vistas from development to maintain open space and scenic
character for public travelling along routes lining the Lakeshore;
• Encourage the use and development of County owned beaches in
Lakeshore area;
• Encourage the redevelopment of Port Maitland to include significant
recreational uses.
There are no public washrooms in the Lakeshore area, with the exception of four
portable washrooms at Port Maitland public beach area. These are provided on
a seasonal basis.
81
A1 Appendix 1
The Lakeshore Area Study discusses the feasibility of establishing Lake Shore
Road as a “Scenic Drive” for sightseeing, hiking and biking, this scenic drive
would use the existing road right-of-way to accommodate these uses.
It is noted within the report that the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority,
Grand River Conservation Authority and Long Point Conservation Authority
could assist with establishing park / open space connections, if the County
chooses to extend parkland where appropriate.
The shoreline has 4 officially recognized public beaches:
1. Rock Point Provincial Park
2. James N. Allan Provincial Park
3. Haldimand Conservation Area
4. Port Maitland (small beach on west side of Grand River)
With increased popularity and increased tourism to the area, there is concern
over inadequate public parking facilities.
There are four marinas identified along the shoreline in the Lakeshore area; the
report does not specify if these are private or public facilities (it is assumed that
they are private facilities).
Appendix 1
A1
A1.7 Summary of Key Findings and Opportunities
In summary, support for protecting public access, views, vistas and nodes
along the Lakeshore is evident in the various documents reviewed within
this section. Encouraging better parking and access to public Lakeshore
facilities and including significant recreational uses on the Lakeshore at
public areas are other policies that are supported.
Incorporating an integrated trail network into the Lakeshore area is also a
key direction that is supported. This will provide better public access to
the Lakeshore area, and potentially promote active transportation modes,
reducing automobile traffic along Lake Shore Road where the volume of
vehicular traffic is currently a concern.
Protecting natural features, such as Provincially Significant Wetlands (PSW)
and natural beaches, and heritage features, such as Port Maitland pier and
lighthouse, are important considerations as the project moves forward.
Policies related to encouraging economic development and supporting
tourism related destinations within Haldimand County was prevalent in
many of the documents reviewed as well.
83
A2
Appendix 2 - Demographic Profile
and Market Analysis
A2
Appendix 2
A2.1 Demographic Context
The following review of demographic information is primarily derived from the
Statistics Canada 2006 and 2001 Census. Note that the area of Haldimand County
refers to the census subdivision, the area of Norfolk County refers to the census
subdivision while the area of Haldimand-Norfolk refers to the census division.
The latest census statistics show Haldimand County with a population of 45,212,
representing a population growth of 3.4% over the 2001-2006 census periods.
POPULATION
Population in 2006
Population in 2001
Population Change 2001-2006 (%)
Haldimand County Norfolk County Haldimand-Norfolk Ontario
45,212
62,563
107,812
12,160,282
43,728
60,847
104,670
11,410,046
3.40%
2.80%
3.00%
6.60%
Source: Statistics Canada, Canadian Census 2001 and 2006
Population growth in Haldimand County has been slower than growth in the
Province as a whole, however, the pace of growth remains faster than neighbouring
Norfolk County between the 2001-2006 Census periods.
Population Change 2001-2006 (%)
7.00%
6.00%
6.60%
5.00%
4.00%
3.00%
3.40%
2.80%
2.00%
3.00%
1.00%
0.00%
Haldimand County
Norfolk County
Haldimand-Norfolk
Ontario
Source: Statistics Canada, Canadian Census 2001 and 2006
As part of the 2010 Community Profile document released by the Haldimand
County, forecasts for the population of the urban areas found within the County
were provided. The urban areas of Haldimand County are estimated to grow at a
rate of approximately 2 percent annually.
87
A2 Appendix 2
Urban Area Population Forecasts
2006
10,460
1,870
5,910
3,265
1,455
1,570
24,530
Caledonia
Cayuga
Dunnville
Hagersville
Jarvis
Townsend
Total
2011
11,710
2,040
6,150
3,690
1,515
1,985
27,090
2016
13,065
2,215
6,420
4,135
1,585
2,410
29,830
2021
14,380
2,690
6,715
4,580
1,655
2,810
32,830
Source: Haldimand County, Haldimand County Community Profile 2010
According to the 2006 Census, there were a total of 18,386 total private dwellings
in Haldimand County in 2006. Of this total, 16,306 dwellings (88.7% of the total)
were occupied by usual residents. Compared with Norfolk County as well as the
Province as a whole, Haldimand County has a significant proportion of dwellings
which can be classified as secondary residences. The figure below shows the
percentage of private dwellings occupied by usual residents in 2006 in Haldimand,
Norfolk, Haldimand-Norfolk and Ontario.
Percentage Private Dwellings Occupied by Usual
Residents, 2006
92.00%
91.00%
91.58%
91.37%
90.00%
90.23%
89.00%
88.00%
88.70%
87.00%
Haldimand County
Norfolk County
Haldimand-Norfolk
Ontario
Source: Statistics Canada, Canadian Census 2006
An analysis of the total labour force by industry shows that the majority of the
labour force in Haldimand County is concentrated in Manufacturing, Business
Services and Other Services. The figure below illustrates the labour force by
industry represented as a percentage of total industries in Haldimand, Norfolk,
Haldimand-Norfolk and the Province of Ontario.
A2
Appendix 2
Percentage Labour Force by Industry, 2006
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
Agriculture and other resource-based industries
Construction
Manufacturing
Wholesale trade
Retail trade
Finance and real estate
Health care and social services
Educational services
Business services
Other services
Haldimand County
Norfolk County
Haldimand-Norfolk
Ontario
Of significance is the relatively larger proportion of the population in Haldimand
employed in Agricultural, Manufacturing, Construction and Health Care relative to the
Provincial average.
The following figure illustrates the median income of persons 15 years of age and older
in Haldimand, Norfolk, Haldimand-Norfolk and the Province of Ontario. In 2005, the
median income in Haldimand was $26,360, closely comparable to the Provincial average
of $27,258 (representing 96.7% of the median income for the Province of Ontario).
89
A2 Appendix 2
A2.2 Market Analysis
Resident Profile
It is understood that the housing and cottage market in the study area includes
a significant proportion of secondary homes (home not a primary residence for
the owner). The chart which follows represents the origin of secondary property
owners on the Lakeshore of Haldimand County. The information is derived from
an assessment of primary mailing addresses (what we refer to loosely as origin of
owners) of properties along the Lakeshore in Haldimand County. Primary mailing
addresses located within the County are assumed to represent primary residences
and are therefore excluded from the analysis. The chart does not represent a
comprehensive list of secondary property owners, only origins with over 20 owners
are shown.
Origins of Secondary Property
Owners in Haldimand County
630
Hamilton
Toronto/North York
114
Stoney Creek
108
Burlington
104
94
St. Catharines
82
Ancaster
Welland
49
Dundas
48
Brantford
47
Mississauga
44
Grimsby
37
Oakville
36
34
Niagara Falls, Ont
Binbrook
23
Smithville
22
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
Number of Properties Owned in Haldimand County
Source: Sierra based on data from Haldimand County, Economic
Development and Tourism Division
A2
Appendix 2
A significant portion of secondary property owners in Haldimand County originate
from the Hamilton area as well as the Greater Toronto Area. Of note is the
interrelation of Haldimand County to Hamilton both in terms of property owners
as well as visitation.
Based on our situational assessment of the tourism visitation patterns to the
area, which included face to face meetings with management staff of the three
provincial parks in the study area, this breakdown of origin also reflects the wider
in-province visitor profile. As it relates to the key public areas – and the provincial
parks in particular – the opportunity is based on visitors largely originating from
west of the GTA (west of Peel Region).
Visitor Profile: Regional Tourism Profiles
The following analysis is derived from the Regional Tourism Profile for Census
Division 28 (Haldimand-Norfolk). Comparable information is available for years
2006-2008. Given methodological changes in the new Travel Survey of Residents
of Canada, 2006-2008 data cannot be compared to earlier years.
As illustrated below, 94% of visitation to Haldimand-Norfolk County in 2008 was
from travellers residing in Ontario.
Source: Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Regional Tourism Profiles, 2008
91
A2 Appendix 2
Further, the top 10 places of residence of visitors to Haldimand County are
represented in the chart below. A significant majority of visitation is from the
Hamilton-Wentworth area (over 30%), and other significant visitor origins come
from areas adjacent to or within close proximity to Haldimand County including
Waterloo Region, Brant County, Niagara Region and the Toronto Metropolitan
Area. It should be noted that this profile reflects the entire Census Division which
comprises both Norfolk and Haldimand Counties – as such, it includes tourism assets
of significance such as Turkey Point and Port Dover. As primary tourism draws,
the distribution of visitor origins may be somewhat different than for Haldimand
County alone based on its more low-key asset base along the Lakeshore.
Person Visits : Place of Residence (Top 10)
Haldimand - Norfolk County, 2008
0.00%
5.00% 10.00% 15.00% 20.00% 25.00% 30.00% 35.00%
CD25: Hamilton-Wentworth Regional Municipality
CD30: Waterloo Regional Municipality
CD29: Brant County
CD26: Niagara Regional Municipality
CD20: Toronto Metropolitan Municipality
CD28: Haldimand-Norfolk Regional Municipality
CD39: Middlesex County
CD32: Oxford County
CD24: Halton Regional Municipality
CD23: Wellington County
An analysis of the main purpose for a visitor’s trip to Haldimand-Norfolk shows that
almost half of trips are for pleasure and nearly another half are for visiting family
and relatives (VFR). Other reasons for travelling to Haldimand-Norfolk include
business and personal, however, these categories only represent a small portion
of responses.
A2
Appendix 2
An understanding of the activities in which visitors to the Haldimand - Norfolk
area participate is important. The following chart shows the activity participations
by visitors to Haldimand-Norfolk in 2008 by relative percentage. Of the activities
cited by respondents, almost 27% of activities in the Haldimand-Norfolk area were
boating activities.
The chart also illustrates the importance of water-based and nature based activities
to the region as the top 3 activities in which visitors participate are entirely naturebased (boating, fishing, nature parks).
93
A2 Appendix 2
Percentage Activity Participations by
Visitors to Haldimand-Norfolk, 2008
Boating
Fishing
National/Provincial Nature Parks
Golfing
Cultural Performances
Sports Events
Historic Sites
Zoos/Aquariums
Casinos
Museums/Art Galleries
Festivals/Fairs
Theme Parks
Hunting
0.00% 5.00% 10.00% 15.00% 20.00% 25.00% 30.00%
The average length of stay (total nights spent) by overnight visitors to the
Haldimand-Norfolk Census Metropolitan Areas (CMA) differ considerably by origin
of visitor. Ontario and US visitors tend to make shorter stays, which is expected as
they are located in relatively close proximity to the area. Visitors from other parts
of Canada stay an average of 17.3 nights and overseas visitors stay an average of
14.1 nights.
A2
Appendix 2
Average Length of Stay (nights)
Haldimand - Norfolk by Origin, 2008
17.3
20.0
14.1
15.0
10.0
5.0
2.6
2.4
0.0
Ontario
Other Canada
U.S.
Overseas
The trend in visitor spending in Haldimand-Norfolk is encouraging, with total
visitor spending growing from $78,664,000 in 2006 to $94,237,000 in 2008.
The average visitor spending over the 3 years of analysis is also growing from $60
in 2006 to $78 in 2008. In comparison to south western Ontario and Ontario as a
whole, the average visitor spending per person visit remains relatively low.
95
A2 Appendix 2
Average Visitor Spending per Person Visit (includes overnight)
Haldimand - Norfolk
All Ontario
South Western Ontario
2006
$60
$167
$101
2007
$64
$165
$99
2008
$78
$175
$112
Source: Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Regional Tourism Profiles, 2006-2008
Of note is the difference in average visitor spending per person visit by origin
of visitor. Overseas and visitors from parts of Canada outside of Ontario tend to
spend much more per person visit. This may be attributed to longer stays by these
groups of visitors.
Average Visitor Spending per Person Visit by Origin (includes overnight)
Year
Total Average
Ontario
Other Canada
U.S.
Overseas
2006
$60
$55
$263
$78
$354
2007
$64
$56
$390
$73
$418
2008
$78
$70
$320
$94
$361
Source: Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Regional Tourism Profiles, 2006-2008
Visitor Activities and Motivations – eTAMS Analysis
The following analysis is derived from the travel activities and motivations survey
by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism. The analysis differs from the analysis of visitor
profile as eTAMS data primarily illustrates the activities which travellers participated
in (activities sought) while travelling in the past two years as well as the motivations
for trips (activities as main reasons for trips) developed from a sample of travellers.
The data is current as of 2006.
The following charts illustrate the range of activity markets that Haldimand County
could potentially capitalize on. The numbers of travelers participating in each of
the activities based on the TAMS research provide some sense of the relative scale
for these activity markets within the Ontario and specifically Hamilton travelers
market.
The activity markets which stand out from this research are swimming, sitting on a
beach/sunbathing, wildlife viewing and fishing.
A2
Appendix 2
Top 15 Activities by Travellers
from Hamilton, 2006
Swimming
Sunbathing or sitting on a beach
Wildlife Viewing
Fishing
Hiking
Nature park - national …
Golfing
Motorboating
Mini-golf
Cycling
Scuba Diving/Snorkelling
Kayaking or canoeing
Water skiing
ATV-ing
Sailing
0
100000 200000 300000
In relation to travelers from Hamilton, eTAMS research reveals that the land-based
activities (within the range of activities on the chart) that motivate trips (i.e., those
hiking, golfing, nature parks and wildlife viewing. Golfing and nature parks are
significantly smaller market segments but they are strong trip motivators.
97
A2 Appendix 2
Percentage (weighted) Population Motivation for Trips:
Land Based Activities
By Travellers from Hamilton
9.15%
Nature Park
7.56%
Golfing
6.15%
Wildlife Viewing
5.25%
Hiking
3.37%
Cycling
2.08%
Motorcycling
1.69%
Mini-golf
1.10%
Horseback Riding
0.93%
ATV-ing
0.21%
In-line/roller blading
0.00% 1.00% 2.00% 3.00% 4.00% 5.00% 6.00% 7.00% 8.00% 9.00% 10.00%
eTams also reveals that the water-based activities (within the range of activities on
the chart) that motivate trips (i.e. those where more than 15% indicate the activity
motivated some of their trips) were sunbathing and swimming. Both of these
activities represent large markets as well as strong motivators for travelers from
Hamilton.
Percentage (weighted) Population Motivation for Trips:
Water Based Activities
By Travellers from Hamilton
19.13%
Sunbathing or Sitting on a Beach
16.55%
Swimming
9.70%
Fishing
5.55%
Motorboating
Sailing
2.78%
Kayaking or Canoeing
2.06%
1.98%
Water skiing
0.00%
1.04%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
A2
Appendix 2
For comparison, the travelers market for Ontario as a whole is analyzed in the chart
below. The activity markets which stand out from this research are swimming,
sitting on a beach/sunbathing, wildlife viewing, hiking and visiting a nature park.
Top 15 Activities by Travellers from Ontario, 2006
Swimming
Sunbathing or sitting on a beach
Wildlife Viewing
Hiking
Nature park - national provincial/state park
Fishing
Golfing
Motorboating
Kayaking or canoeing
Cycling
Mini-golf
ATV-ing
Water skiing
Horseback Riding
0
1000000 2000000 3000000 4000000 5000000 6000000
At this time, winter activities do not represent a large segment of the tourism
market for Haldimand County. It is still important to note that popular winter
activities sought from travellers originating from the main market for Haldimand
County (Hamilton CMA) include, skiing, ice-skating, snowmobiling, ice fishing and
snowboarding.
Top 5 Winter Activities by Travellers from
Hamilton, 2006
Skiing
Ice-skating
Snowmobiling
Fishing - ice fishing
Snowboarding
0
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
60000
99
A2 Appendix 2
The same is true of the Ontario travellers market as a whole in terms of popular
winter activities sought by travellers.
Top 5 Winter Activities by Travellers
from Ontario, 2006
Skiing
Ice-skating
Snowmobiling
Fishing - ice fishing
Snowboarding
0
500000
1000000
1500000
The chart which follows represents the accommodations sought while travelling
in the past 2 years by travellers from the Hamilton CMA. The most significant
accommodations sought by Hamilton travellers include: public campgrounds,
lakeside / riverside resorts, seaside resort and private campgrounds.
A2
Appendix 2
Similarly, the most significant accommodations sought by Ontario travellers
include: public campgrounds, lakeside / riverside resorts, seaside resort and
private campgrounds.
It is clear that camping at a public campground are largely popular among
the Hamilton travellers market as well as the Ontario market as a whole. The
two charts which follow show the type of camping equipment used while
travelling. Tent camping is a significantly larger market in both the Hamilton
CMA and Ontario as a whole (relative to other forms of camping equipment
used), however, the number of travel trailers and motorized homes similarly
significant.
101
A2 Appendix 2
Camping Equipment Used While Travelling in the
Past 2 Years by Travellers from Hamilton, 2006
120000
100000
80000
60000
40000
20000
0
Tent
Travel trailer Motor home
/ fifth wheel
or RV
Tent trailer Truck camper
or van
Camping Equipment Used While Travelling in the Past
2 Years by Travellers from Ontario, 2006
2000000
1500000
1000000
500000
0
Tent
Travel trailer Tent trailer Motor home Truck camper
/ fifth wheel
or RV
or van

Schedule “B” Municipal Class Environmental

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