7 I

TOMMY THOMPSON PARK

MASTER PLAN AND ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

JUNE 1989

Orr the metropolitan and region conservation authority ill Tommy Thompson Park Table of Contents

Form 1 - Summary Form for an Environmental Submission

1. Introduction Page 1. 1 The Undertaking 1 1. 2 Description of Study Area 4 1. 3 Purpose and Rationale for the Undertaking 9

2. Studv Process 2. 1 Master Plan Process 11 2. 1. 1 Phase I - Zone Identification 11 2. 1. 2 Phase II - Alternative Development Components 12 2. 1. 3 Phase III - Concept Plan Development 12 2. 1. 4 Phase IV - Master Plan 12 2. 1. 5 Phase V - Report and Approvals 13 2.2 Public Participation Overview 13 2.3 Public Input Summary 14

3. Background Information 3. 1 Waterfront Planning and Tommy Thompson Park 18 3. 2 MTRCA Watershed Plan 19 3. 3 Lake Waterfront Development Program 20 3. 4 Other Watershed Programs 24

4. Existing Conditions 4. 1 Physical 26 4. 1. 1 Site Access and Surroundings 26 4. 1. 2 Engineering 26 4. 1. 3 Dredgeate Disposal 31 4. 1. 4 Fill Quality 32 4.2 Biophysical 35 4.2. 1 Topography/ Soils 35 4.2.2 Water Levels 37 4.2.3 Climate/ Micro-climate 37 4.2.4 Visual Analysis 40 4.2.5 Ornithological Summary 40 4.2.6 Wildlife Features 46 4.2.7 Bacteriological Study Summary 46 4.3 Interim Management Program 54 4.4 Ministry of Natural Resources, Maple District Land Use Guidelines 58 4.5 Metro-Toronto Waterfront - Boating Study Update 61 4.6 - Official Plan for the Urban Structure 68 4.7 City of Toronto: Central Waterfront Plan 71

t Page 5. Alternative Policv Directions - Phase I - Zone Identification 5. 1 Tommy Thompson - Goals and Objectives 77 5.2 Master Planning Zone Definitions 82 5.3 Master Planning Zone Options 83 5.4 Evaluation and Recommended Options 90 5.5 Conclusions 101

6. Alternative Development Components - Phase II 6. 1 Potential Uses 103 6.2 Screening Process and Evaluation 106 6.3 Tommy Thompson Park Use Program 111

7. Alternative Concept Plans and Evaluation - Phase III 7. 1 Public Workshop - Concept Plans 116 7.2 Alternative Concept Plans 118 7.3 Evaluation of Alternative Concept Plans 129 7.4 Recommended Concept Plan 133

8. Master Plan - Phase IV 8. 1 Introduction 140 8.2 Spirit of Plan 141 8.3 Natural Resource Area 144 8.4 Interpretive Centre/ Program 150 8.5 Sailing Uses 150 8.6 Access/ Parking 151 8.7 Pathways 152 8.8 Servicing 153 8.9 Design Guidelines 153 8. 10 Environmental Enhancement, Impact, and Mitigative Measures 169

9. ImDlementation 9. 1 Capital Cost 173 9.2 Phasing 177 9.3 Operations 179 9.4 Funding 180

ADDendix A. Public Participation

ADDendix B. E.A. ADDroval

ADDendix C. Surficial Soil Contamination Survev of Leslie Street Snit - 1988 I

List of Figures

Page

FIGURE 1. 1 Outer Harbour Eastern Headland Land Ownership 3

FIGURE 1. 2 Tommy Thompson Park Study Areas 5 I FIGURE 4. 1 Tommy Thompson Park Proposed Landfill Program 28

FIGURE 4.2a Tommy Thompson Park Microclimate Map 38

FIGURE 4.2b Conceptual Drawings of Microclimate Effects 39

FIGURE 4.3a Tommy Thompson Park Visual Analysis Map 41

FIGURE 4.3b Conceptual Drawings of Visual Analyses 42

FIGURE 4.4a Ring-billed Gull Nest Count 44

FIGURE 4.4b Herring Gull Nest Count 44

FIGURE 4.4c Caspian Tern Nest Count 44

FIGURE 4.4d Common Tern Nest Count 44

FIGURE 4.4e Black-crowned Night Heron Nest Count 45

FIGURE 4.5 1984 Environmentally Significant Area Map 47

FIGURE 4.6 Migrant Bird Staging Areas 48

FIGURE 4.7 Nationally Rare Plant Species 49

FIGURE 4.8 Significant Nesting Areas 50

FIGURE 4.9 Provincially Rare Plant Species 51

FIGURE 4. 10 Regionally Rare Plant Species 52

FIGURE 4. 11 Existing Facilities 1984 Update Map 62

FIGURE 4. 12 Schedule of New Facilities and Possible Expansion of Existing

Facilities Map 64

FIGURE 4. 13 Urban Structure Plan - Official Plan for the Urban Structure

of Metropolitan Toronto 69

d Page

FIGURE 4. 14 Land Use Designations for the Central Waterfront 72

FIGURE 5. 1 Policy and Development Factors 85

FIGURE 5. 2 Master Planning Zone Option # 1 87

FIGURE 5.3 Master Planning Zone Option # 2 88

FIGURE 5.4 Master Planning Zone Option # 3 89

FIGURE 5.5 Master Planning Zones Evaluation Matrix 91

FIGURE 7. 1 Summary of Public Workshop 117

FIGURE 7.2 Concept Alternative "A" 120

FIGURE 7.3 Concept Alternative " B" 121

FIGURE 7. 4 Concept Alternative " C" 124

FIGURE 7. 5 Concept Alternative "D" 126

FIGURE 7. 6 Revised Concept Alternative " D" 137

FIGURE 8. 1 Master Plan 142

FIGURE 8. 1a Master Plan 143 List of Tables,

Page

TABLE 1. 1 Tommy Thompson Park Land/ Water Areas 8

TABLE 4. 1 Fill Progress Report for the Outer Harbour East Headland and

Endikement 29

TABLE 5. 1 Master Planning Zones Definition 84

TABLE 6. 1 Tommy Thompson Park Authority Additions to Suggested Uses

and Facilities 104

TABLE 6.2 Use Program Evaluation Summary 107

TABLE 6.3 Tommy Thompson Park Use Program 112

TABLE 9. 1 Master Plan Capital Costs 173 Introduction 1 1

1. Introduction

1. 1 The Undertaking

The undertaking for Tommy Thompson Park is a Master Plan which incorporates the following components:

the Master Plan's direction, for the majority of the site designated as the "Natural Area", is based on a natural successional or ecological approach, augmented by minimal intervention and management to achieve:

the preservation of significant species such as Caspian Tern, Common Tern, and Black-crowned Night Heron;

the protection of environmentally significant areas realizing their dynamic biological nature overtime;

the creation of significant marsh/ wetlands habitat; and

surface/ site preparation in the " Natural Area" to allow natural succession to achieve a vegetative community over time such as a willow/ aspen/ cottonwood community given the existing adjacent plant communities.

an Interpretive Centre including an education program as a focal Point for environmental resource programs developed for the school boards and the general

public;

a separate major/ minor pedestrian system in excess of 12 km and a separate 7 km bicycle pathway including future linkages to the ;

a 2

Private vehicular access to the Interpretive Centre with 100 public parking spaces and provision for an additional 200 public parking spaces at the park entrance if warranted based on future park use levels.

The integration of the existing Aquatic Park Sailing Club, relocation of the Toronto Multihull Cruising Club ( 65 boats), and the creation of an area for the Outer Harbour Sailing Federation/ Community Club activities and boardsailing use. A total of 300 parking spaces are allocated for the Outer Harbour Sailing Federation and the boardsailing activities.

A park transportation unit which is proposed to operate from the Interpretive Centre to the lighthouse with the potential to extend the service to the park entrance during peak park use periods, subject to review of user demand and

operating costs.

Future extension of Toronto Transit Commission service to Tommy Thompson Park and potentially to the Interpretive Centre subject to user demand and T.T.C.

approval.

The plan includes extension of municipal services, such as sanitary, water, electricity, and telephone to the Interpretive Centre and boundaries of the lease areas for the community sailing/ boardsailing clubs.

The proponent is currently the owner of 247.27 ha of land ( see Figure 1. 1). Once the Ministry of Natural Resources lease to the Commissioners expires or there is substantial completion of landfilling and dredgeate disposal, ownership of a further 223 ha will be transferred to the proponent.

Alternatives to the master plan were evaluated in terms of the three master planning zone options ( Phase I) and alternative concept plans ( Phase III) including a " do nothing"

alternative. 1,

rn 3

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c, 1011RANOW

00 T 1 AND

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a• T.H.C. I 3 LAND I l 219. 30 ha'

Lq p LL OUTER EASED F HAR80UR

Ni 223.85 h0 M, a If~ 0 1w01 r rr ENDIK E

i R.C.A. LANDS j- TOMMY THOMPSON tt PARK

4. 61 ha 3 CITY OF TORONTO INCLUDES ROAD ALLOWANCE — x INCLUDES ROAD ALLOWANCE — 5. 04 ha A" Iwidgese" Q. TOTAL ACTUAL M.T.R.C. A. LAND AREA- IS 70. 57 ha) Q. Toronto OQ Islands N

0*? 41tIO

1` 4

Alternative concepts for Tommy Thompson Park were evaluated in detail. On the basis of the comparison, a revised Concept D was adopted by the Authority as the preferred alternative in terms of its consistency with the goals and objectives, and responsiveness to the public, planning, and natural resource concerns.

The master plan incorporates in detail, the revised concept plan components. Furthermore, it elaborates on the primary direction of significant site features protection and the opportunity of environmental enhancement to create a diverse and vibrant ecological unit. Measures to achieve environmental enhancement as well as mitigation and monitoring of the environmental impacts are recommended.

1. 2 Description of Study Area

Planning and Master Plan Areas

In undertaking this study, the Tommy Thompson Park Planning Task Force assisted the Authority in establishing two planning areas. The first area, Tommy Thompson Park Master Plan Area ( Figure 1. 2), included the land under MTRCA's ownership as well as those lands under lease from the Ministry of Natural Resources to the Toronto Harbour Commissioners to complete the lakefilling and dredgeate disposal. It is for this area, that the Authority has prepared a Master Plan outlining future uses and management directions.

The second area, the Tommy Thompson Park Planning Area, ( Figure 1. 2) includes the master plan area and the adjacent land/ water area for which future developments will have a bearing on the Tommy Thompson Park Master Plan and

ultimate use of the site. This area includes the north shore of the Outer Harbour

and the Metro. Pollution Control Plant/ Coatsworth Cut. i

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unnnnuuuuuauuu Tommy Thompson Park Planning Area

Tommy Thompson Master Plan Area

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C` the metropolitan toronto and region conservation authority Figure 1. 2 Tommy Thompson Park Study Areas. 6

Ownership

Figure 1. 1 provides a summary of the waterlot transactions between the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Toronto Harbour Commissioners, and The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. The transactions included the following:

An area under lease from the Ministry of Natural Resources to the Toronto

Harbour Commissioners for ( a) completion and maintenance of the shoreline alignment and final armouring and (b) constructing, operating and maintaining an endikement area for disposal of dredgeate. The term of the lease is for 10 years from May 1983 with a further 10 year renewal option.

An area transferred from the Ministry of Natural Resources to The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority ( effective date - May, 1984).

An area known as the Outer Harbour transferred from the Ministry of Natural Resources to the Toronto Harbour Commissioners ( May, 1984).

The transfer of a small parcel of land to the City of Toronto from the THC to allow for the extension of Leslie Street south of Unwin Avenue to the MTRCA property boundary as public road allowance.

Site Context

In 1959, filling to construct the or Outer Harbour East Headland Tommy Thompson Park) was initiated by the Toronto Harbour Commissioners in the area of Leslie Street and Unwin Avenue.

The opportunity to dramatically increase the land base of Tommy Thompson Park developed in 1973 with the commencement of dredging for the shipping channel in 7 the Outer Harbour. Over the period of 1974 to 1983, approximately 6,500,000 cubic metres of sand/ silt were dredged from the Outer Harbour and placed in the lee of the Headland. The placement of sand resulted in the formation of the lagoons and sand spits which accounts for a significant proportion of the land base of Tommy Thompson Park.

In 1979, the next major expansion of land area commenced with the construction of an endikement on the lakeward side of the Headland. The endikement provides protected cells for dredged material from the Inner Harbour and the Keating Channel.

Today, Tommy Thompson Park extends in a southerly direction some 2.0 km from Leslie Street/ Unwin Avenue to the endikement area. The main spine of Tommy Thompson Park then continues in a south-westerly direction another 3.0 km to the lighthouse. The endikement extends in a southerly direction 1. 8 km from the main spine.

Table 1. 1 indicates the current land and water areas associated with Tommy Thompson Park. Refer to Figure 1. 2, for the location of the embayments and cells. 8

Table 1. 1 Tommy Thompson Park Land/ Water Areas.

Present Land Area Hectares Acres

Outer Harbour Headland 108. 0 266.2

Endikement 16.5 41.3

Present Area Total 124.5 307.5

Water Area

Cell 1 8.2 20.5

Cell 2 9.3 23.3

Cell 3 32. 1 80.2

Embayment A 7.0 17.5

Embayment B 11. 3 28.3

Embayment C 21.3 53.3

Embayment D 6.4 16.0

Water Area Total 95. 6 239. 1

Proposed Land Area 40. 1 100.4

MTRCA waterlot total area 247.27 611. 0

TUC waterlot under lease

from M.N.R. 223.85 553. 13

TUC Outer Harbour 219.30 541. 89

waterlot transferred May, 1984 9

1. 3 Purpose and Rationale for the Undertaking

By the early 1970' s, it had been determined that the Outer Harbour Headland, under construction since 1959, was not required for "port related facilities". In August 1973, the Provincial Cabinet gave the Authority "the responsibility of being the Province' s agent with regard to the proposed Aquatic Park ( now Tommy Thompson Park) and the preparation of a master plan". In 1977, the Authority' s mandate was expanded to include not only the preparation of a master plan, but also development and interim management.

The purpose of the undertaking is to ensure, as stated in the Waterfront Development Program:

i) the protection and enhancement of environmentally significant areas, heritage resources, and wildlife and fisheries habitat;

ii) the provision of regional access and facilities for water-oriented recreation;

iii) the linkage of specific areas both along the shoreline and within valleyland

open space corridors; and

iv) consultation with the relevant funding and approval agencies and with public interest groups.

MTRCA, 1986).

In accordance with the mandate of the Authority within the Lake Ontario Waterfront Development Program, the opportunities for this waterfront area, and the diverse interests of the public, interest groups and agencies, the specific goals of the undertaking are as follows:

To conserve and manage the natural resources and environmentally significant 10

area of the site.

To provide a unique, water-oriented open space which will assist in meeting

regional needs.

To develop public awareness regarding the significance of the Lake Ontario waterfront and in particular, Tommy Thompson Park.

To develop a plan for Tommy Thompson Park which is cognizant of the policies and development proposals within the planning area.

The Tommy Thompson Park Master Plan and Environmental Assessment demonstrates:

Consistency with the goals and objectives ( see Section 5. 1) for Tommy Thompson Park;

Majority agreement from the Natural Area Advisory Committee on environmental enhancement, through the concept of natural succession aided by surficial soil preparation and the creation of significant wetland/ marsh habitat to replace the habitat lost in the lower at the turn of the century as well as in other river mouth areas along the Metropolitan Toronto waterfront;

Improvements to the public's use and access, as well as the opportunity to enjoy Tommy Thompson Park and its unique waterfront characteristics;

Recognition of the Outer Harbour's regional significance in providing a protected water area for recreational boating in the form of community clubs and other water-based activities ( eg. boardsailing); and

Consistency with the " Official Plan for the Urban Structure" - Metropolitan Toronto and the " Central Waterfront Plan" - City of Toronto Official Plan.

4 Study Process 2 11

2. Study Process

2.1 Master Plan Process

In January 1983, The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority determined the need to initiate a new master planning exercise to replace the 1976 Master Plan. To assist in the process, the Authority established a Task Force with representatives from the City of Toronto Planning Department, the Metropolitan Toronto Parks and Property Department, the Metropolitan Toronto Works Department, the Metropolitan Toronto Planning Department, the Toronto Harbour Commissioners, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ministry of the Environment, and the Ministry of Tourism and Recreation.

In March 1984, the Authority and the Task Force adopted a study process for the preparation of the Tommy Thompson Park Master Plan ( see Appendix A - Figure 3. 1). This process was a five phased approach involving a review of background data ( Phase I), an evaluation of development components and identification of constraints ( Phase II), examination of concept alternatives resulting in the selection of a preferred concept plan Phase III), preparation of the Master Plan ( Phase IV), and provision for approval of the plan according to the requirements of the Environmental Assessment Act ( Phase V). Proceeding concurrently with the planning process was an opportunity for the public to provide their input during each phase regarding the future of the Park through public meetings, open houses, workshops, questionnaires, written submissions and deputations before the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board and full Authority.

21.1 Phase I - Zone Identification

Phase I of the Master Plan approach provided an opportunity to evaluate the site and establish planning zones for a range of uses which reflected the integrity of the resource and the visitor' s experience. This was achieved through a review of background information, a biophysical inventory, a review of Tommy Thompson Park development schedule, and policy and development factors. The product of this phase was the formation of general 12 planning zones based on an evaluation process and public input. This phase was completed with the confirmation of the general planning zones by the Task Force, the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board ( WRLMAB), and the full Authority.

21.2 Phase II - Alternative Development Components

Phase II initiated the process of developing and evaluating the potential use components for each of the Tommy Thompson Park general planning zones. Preferred components were selected and evaluated based on criteria such as site suitability, environmental impact, cost, design considerations, compatibility, and public feasibility. The end of this phase included the submission and acceptance of a staff status report by the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board on the Tommy Thompson Park Use Program.

2.1. 3. Phase III - Concept Plan Development

Phase III involved the development of alternative concept plans for the site utilizing the selected components and their supporting facilities which were formulated in Phase II. These plans attempted to provide: locations for each component, particular management principles, access opportunities ( transit, private vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians), and provide linkages between components. Following public comment and government agency review a preferred concept plan was chosen. The preferred plan was then submitted to the WRLMAB for approval. Final approval of the preferred concept was received from the Authority on January 23, 1987.

2.1. 4 Phase IV- Master Plan

The next task in the planning process was the formulation of the Master Plan and implementation program. The Master Plan was to reflect the preferred concept and input received from the Natural Area Advisory Committee and the Outer Harbour Sailing Federation Physical Planning Committee. The implementation program addresses the costing, phasing, operation, financing, visitor programs, and site design requirements as well 13 as coordinate these guidelines with the ongoing lakefill development and dredgeate disposal programs. Following completion of the Master Plan, the Plan was submitted to the WRLMAB for recommendation to the full Authority. Final approval of the Master Plan by the full Authority was granted on January 29, 1988.

2.1. 5 Phase V- Report and Apnrovals

The major task in this phase is the completion of the Master Plan and Environmental Assessment document. This document is then submitted to the Minister of the Environment according to the Environmental Assessment Act. Following the governmental agency review, within the Environmental Assessment process, the Authority will concurrently seek approvals from the Ministry of the Natural Resources and the Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto.

2.2 Public Participation Overview

To receive public input, the Authority utilized several different techniques which would ensure a broad range of input. As a result, this Master Plan and Environmental Assessment report is a product of the collaboration of these interests.

Initially, public meetings were used in order to provide the public with an introduction to the master planning process and background information on Tommy Thompson Park. Once the public had been introduced to the project, a more informal format was required. Consequently, a three day public information centre was held, at which time Authority staff was available to meet individually with members of the public.

During Phase II an extensive public survey was used to obtain a list of potential uses for Master Planning Zone Options I and III from Phase I. Authority staff compiled the results of the survey and evaluated the potential uses. The results of the evaluation was a Tommy Thompson Park Use Program which was then distributed to interest groups and the public. 14

A public workshop approach was used during Phase III. Previously, written input had been sought, however, at the workshop the participants were provided with site plans of the Park and asked to graphically express their views by generating alternative concept plans.

The creation of two committees by the Authority occurred during Phase IV which allowed representatives of various interest groups to provide detailed input to the Master Plan. The Natural Area Advisory Committee' s purpose was to prepare detailed implementation recommendations regarding the natural resource area with itemized budget estimates. The purpose of the Outer Harbour Sailing Federation Physical Planning Committee was to contribute towards the development of the Master Plan for the area designated for boating and water-based facilities. A summary of the Master Plan was then circulated to the public for their review and comment prior to consideration by the full Authority.

A public meeting was held before the WRLMAB during each phase. At these meetings the public was invited to participate by making a short presentation. Based on the public input and staff reports, the WRLMAB adopted recommendations for approval by the full Authority.

The full Authority dealt with the Tommy Thompson Park project at the critical points of the process which were Phases I, III, and IV. The public was given the opportunity to speak to the WRLMAB' s recommendations at the Authority meetings. Approval by the full Authority of Phase IV allowed the project to move on to the next phase - approval by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto, and approval of the Ministry of the Environment under the Environmental Assessment Act.

23 Public Input Summary

The Authority in obtaining public input received some comments that the public participation was a token effort and that the public input was not genuinely incorporated into the decision-making process during the formulation of the Tommy Thompson Park Master Plan. This section provides a summary of the public participation and decision- i

15

making process and documents the changes which were made to reflect the public's

comments.

General

The Tommy Thompson Park (Aquatic Park) Task Force meetings were open to the

public with meeting notices and minutes circulated The public participation program was modified to incorporate a "workshop session" to allow the public an opportunity to indicate in plan form their ideas for Tommy Thompson Park.

Phase I - Zone Identification Seven ( 7) Tommy Thompson Park Task Force meetings, two ( 2) public meetings,

one ( 1) public information centre, and public delegations before the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board and full Authority occurred in Phase I. The Authority maintained both Master Planning Zone Options - Option I (Natural Resource Zone) and Option III (Natural Resource, Recreation, and Long Term Development Zones) in proceeding with Phase II (Alternative Development Components) and Phase III (Alternative Concept Plans).

Phase II - Alternative Development Components

Potential site use survey ( 1, 500 survey's distributed), one ( 1) public meeting and public delegations before the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board. Modification to the Tommy Thompson Park Use Program by deleting the following Natural Resource Zone

cross-country skiing

skateboarding kite-flying model boats

Recreation Zone

archery

cross- country skiing kite-flying 16

Long Term Development Zone

skateboarding kite flying model boats diving/ scuba

Transient mooring was added to the Recreation Zone.

Phase III - Concept Plan Development

One ( 1) public workshop, one ( 1) public meeting, and public delegations before Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board and full Authority occurred. Based on the" public workshop" input, no recreational development or private vehicle access was considered beyond the base of Peninsula " D" Elimination of the Long Term Development Zone designation for Cells 1, 2, and 3

including the endikement and that these areas be included with the " natural

resource" zone. Retention of the Aquatic Park Sailing Club in Embayment C with special access

arrangements. Provision for "community sailing" activities on future lakefill with minimum impact on the Environmentally Significant Areas and with separate vehicular access that would not impact the public' s enjoyment of the " natural area" Modifications to Concept Plan "D" which includes a reduction of the public parking at the Interpretive Centre from 300 to 100 spaces and of the boating facility parking adjacent to the TUC marina) from 400 to 250 spaces. Recognition of the opportunity to create a landfill area beyond the Main Sewage Treatment Plant for a public open space linkage to Ashbridge's Bay and a small craft harbour accommodating some 300 - 400 boats. Separation of the pedestrian and cycling path systems.

Phase IV - Master Plan Six ( 6) meetings of the Natural Areas Advisory Committee, three (3) meetings of the it

17

Outer Harbour Sailing Federation Physical Planning Committee, a public meeting held by the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board, and public delegations before the full Authority occurred. Major shift in the management direction of the " Natural Area" through discussions with the Natural Area Advisory Committee to reflect a natural successional approach aided by surficial soil preparation. Major commitment to provide significant marsh/ wetland habitat in Cells 1, 2, and 3 to increase the ecological diversity of the site. Eliminated the proposed water level control in Embayment D while still maintaining the concept of mudflats and shoreline/ pond community types. The Outer Harbour Sailing Federation Physical Planning Committee provided more detailed design of the landfill configuration, vehicle access, and general area allocation for sailing resulting in 2.8 hectares ( 7 acres) of land devoted to sailing and 5.3 hectares ( 13 acres) of land accessible to the public. Based on the final landfill configuration for the sailing activities, an excellent beach for boardsailing will develop. The plan was revised to incorporate this activity and the provision for an additional 50 parking spaces. Deletion of the area immediately south of the Main Sewage Treatment Plant from the Master Plan and the undertaking since the timing of the Sewage Treatment Plant expansion is unknown and Metro Works comments of maintaining the area free of facilities for future plant expansion requirements to meet future water quality standards.

I i I I Background Information 3

LI 18

3. Background Information

3.1 Waterfront Planning and Tommy Thompson Park

In 1965, the Metropolitan Toronto Planning Board commissioned a study to prepare a Waterfront Plan ( M.T.P.B., 1967) for the Metropolitan Toronto planning region. This plan, completed in 1967, provided the vision which "projected a return to the lake; a return back to the vast park and recreational opportunities which lay at the doorstep of a bustling and expanding metropolitan region."

Subsequent to the presentation of the 1967 Waterfront Plan and its approval in principle by the Council of Metropolitan Toronto, the Ministry of the Environment, on November 23, 1970, designated The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority MTRCA) as the implementing agency for the Waterfront Plan for all sectors in which it had jurisdiction except the central harbour area. Specifically, the Authority's responsibility in the eastern sector extended from Coxwell Avenue ( Toronto) to Carruthers Creek (Ajax).

By the early 1970' s, it had been determined that the Outer Harbour Headland, under construction since 1959, was not required for port related facilities. In August 1973, the Provincial Cabinet gave the MTRCA:

a) the mandate to co-ordinate recreation planning in the Central Waterfront Area; and

b) the responsibility of being the Province' s agent with regard to the proposed Aquatic Park ( now Tommy Thompson Park) and responsibility for the

preparation of a master plan.

The responsibility for developing a plan for the Park's recreational use, therefore, rested with the MTRCA. Consequently, in 1976, the MTRCA released a master plan for the site. This plan emphasized the " vast area of sheltered water" which made the park " uniquely suitable for a variety of boating uses" ( MTRCA, 1976). 19

In 1977, the Authority's mandate for Aquatic Park ( now Tommy Thompson Park) was expanded to include not only the preparation of a master plan but also site development and interim management.

Several major issues precluded any immediate development of the site, and although these have been resolved, site conditions by 1983 were significantly different from those in the mid- 1970' s. Natural succession has produced an environmentally significant area with a wealth of flora, some nationally and/ or regionally rare, and one of the largest nesting colonies of ring-billed gulls in the world. Interest in the area and in its potential for a broader spectrum of uses has correspondingly increased. In January 1983, the MTRCA initiated a new master planning exercise for Tommy Thompson Park to develop a master plan to reflect changing site conditions, and future recreational activities.

3.2 The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority - Watershed Plan

In 1980, The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority completed its Watershed Plan ( MTRCA, 1980) with ten programs.

The mandate of the MTRCA is:

To establish and undertake, in the area over which it has jurisdiction, a program designed to further the conservation, restoration, development, and management

of natural resources other than gas, oil, coal, and minerals".

The ten programs which the Authority established are as follows:

Flood Control

Erosion Control

Storm Water Management

Land Acquisition

Conservation Land Management Heritage Conservation/ Black Creek Pioneer Village 20

Conservation Awareness Program Watershed Recreation Lake Ontario Waterfront Development.

The Watershed Plan is complementary to the planning and management responsibilities of the member municipalities and several Provincial ministries. The Plan also defines what the Authority can contribute, within the limits of its legislation and funding to the management of resources in the area under the Authority' s jurisdiction.

3.3 Lake Ontario Waterfront Development Program

The Lake Ontario Waterfront Development Program is based on the " Waterfront Plan for the Metro Toronto Planning Area" prepared by the Metropolitan Toronto Planning Board in 1967. Planning for the Metropolitan Toronto region, whether provincially, municipally, or by the Authority, has recognized the Lake Ontario shoreline as one of the major natural resources of the region. The waterfront work proposed by the Authority is concerned with the conservation, restoration, development and management of the natural resources of the Lake Ontario waterfront.

The following goal of the Authority as it relates to the waterfront is as it was stated in the original Waterfront Plan in 1967 and confirmed in the 1980 Watershed Plan and 1986 Policy Update of The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.

GOAL

To create- a handsome waterfront, balanced in its land uses, which will

complement adjacent areas, taking cognizance of existing residential development and making accessible, wherever possible, features which warrant public use.

To achieve the above stated goal, the Lake Ontario Waterfront Development program established the following objectives:

a) to provide open space areas at regular intervals across the waterfront through

acquisition, land creation and/ or agreements with other agencies; r

21

b) to regularly review and update a long-term Waterfront Plan and to prepare and implement Concept Plans for specific Waterfront areas which will ensure:

i) the protection and enhancement of environmentally significant areas, heritage resources, and wildlife and fisheries habitat

ii) the provision of regional access and facilities for water-oriented recreation

iii) the linking of specific areas both along the shoreline and within

valleyland open space corridors

iv) consultation with the relevant funding and approval agencies and with

public interest groups.

c) to augment the present state of knowledge with respect to waterfront recreation needs, lake processes, and urban waterfront design techniques;

d) to monitor and assess the effects of development undertaken by the Authority and use these findings in the planning of future developments;

e) to cooperate with all municipalities and agencies having policies or programs

specific to- the Lake Ontario waterfront;

f) to enter into agreements with the appropriate municipalities for the operation and maintenance of Authority waterfront projects other than conservation

areas.

The major areas of concern for the Authority with the Lake Ontario Waterfront Development Program are the conservation, restoration, development and management of the waterfront resources, the protection and management of important natural habitats, the design and development of recreational areas, and the interpretation to the municipalities

and public of the Program policies. Furthermore, the program has established certain directional principles for waterfront development. The following is a summary of the key

principles. 22

PRINCIPLES

a) Recreational Use

Priority be assigned to water-oriented recreational opportunities in order to serve regional rather than just local needs.

Recreational facilities, both active and passive in nature and potentially on a year round basis, will be provided in accordance with approved master

plans.

Provision for boating facilities serving the community, club and individual needs in the safe harbour areas along the Lake Ontario shoreline.

The Authority will cooperate in providing feasible habitats for a variety of sport fishing opportunities along the Lake Ontario shoreline. Proposed development will be cognizant of points of historical interest and will endeavour to preserve and enhance them in cooperation with other

agencies.

b) Land

It is the policy of the Authority to receive title for lands wherever works are to be carried out on municipally or Crown owned lands.

An agreement between the Authority and Metropolitan Toronto has been entered for the management of lands deemed by the Metropolitan Corporation to have a park potential including management of boat clubs. 23

Where waterfront lands are not managed by agreement with a municipality, regional or local, waterfront or recreational lands will be managed by the Authority's Field Operations Division.

c) Access

Implicit in the overall goal of the Authority's waterfront development is the provision of access to the shoreline by routes having direct connections with the regional transportation system for the residents of the region served by the Authority. It is important that local traffic systems of waterfront neighbourhoods not be interfered with while this greater access is provided.

In the provision of access, the Lake Ontario Waterfront Development Program indicates that the following will apply:

public transit will be encouraged to provide service to waterfront areas,

wherever possible;

boat access will be encouraged by the provision of boating facilities at all appropriate waterfront areas;

pedestrian/ bicycle park systems will be encouraged;

automobile access will be established to provide scenic access to, and links between, waterfront areas, where appropriate; and

the Authority will encourage local municipalities to retain in public ownership waterfront terminating road allowances as public access points. 24

3.4 Other Watershed Programs i

Three other watershed Programs have relevance to the Lake Ontario Waterfrontate front Development Program. They include:

i) the Erosion Control Program; ii) the Land Acquisition Program; and iii) the Community Relations Program. iv) the Conservation Land Management Program

Erosion Control Program

GOAL

To minimize the hazards to life and property that result from erosion of river banks, valley walls and shorelines while recognizing the value of retaining the natural attributes of the valley and lakefront settings. i

Land Acquisition Program

GOAL

To " acquire hazard and conservation land in order to protect such land against unwise use which would affect the ability of the land to perform its natural functions, and to conserve significant and sensitive land for the benefit of the people of-the region". Properties specifically required for the Lake Ontario Waterfront Development Program and the watershed recreation program would be acquired under these respective programs. 25

Community Relations Program

GOALS

To communicate to its watershed residents information regarding the authority and its goals, objectives and programs for resource management; To report to its watershed residents the accomplishments achieved through public

support of its programs;

To inspire an awareness and appreciation of the natural resources within the region and the need for their management and conservation on a watershed basis;

and

To engender a positive attitude toward the authority in order to achieve public

support for the resource management programs proposed.

Conservation Land Management Program

GOAL

To contribute to the quality of land and water resources through a comprehensive program of conservation land managemnt including vegetation management, wildlife management, fisheries improvement, source area protection, sediment control, water quality improvement, and conservation land planning.