CITY OF AND THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY / DECEMBER 2018 PARK MASTER PLAN PROJECT TEAM

Prepared For: City of Toronto Toronto and Region Conservation Authority

Prepared By: DTAH Project Lead, Landscape Architecture and Urban Design

Schollen & Company Landscape Restoration Specialists

North-South Environmental Inc. Terrestrial Ecologists

LURA Public Facilitation

A.W. Hooker Quantity Surveyors/Costing

Mott MacDonald Engineering Consultant

With special thanks to the staff of TRCA and the City of Toronto Capital Improvements and Parks, Forestry and Recreation Departments. Thanks is also extended to the dedicated individuals who participated in the Community Resource Groups and to those members of the public who attended the open house sessions or otherwise provided comments that assisted in shaping the Master Plan.

2 MASTER PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Humber Bay Park is an important waterfront park in the west end of the city that plays a key social and ecological role for the residents of this growing Toronto neighbourhood.

Humber Bay Park, with its system of • The design capitalizes upon new 4. Improve water quality and trails, rugged shoreline and dramatic opportunities for recreational function of the ponds and views, offers a unique and rare activities and new programmable water channel to support waterfront experience within the social spaces while maintaining ecological and recreational larger area. and protecting the natural and functions while reducing Defined by two separate peninsulas, ecological attributes of the park the resources required for the park is comprised of a collection • The design is flexible, resilient, maintenance and operation. of spaces, each with its own distinct adaptive and able to evolve and 5. Identify opportunities for character, function, form and sense respond to the current needs as improved park programming, of place. The park has been loved well as the future needs of the including redefining existing by the community for decades and is community. spaces and the introduction of now showing signs of wear and tear, new seating and lookouts, while deterioration and disrepair. This Master Plan strives to establish a strong vision for the park and protecting sensitive habitats. Park The vision for Humber Bay Park is one establish a framework to balance programming is intended to be of greater integration of the park as preservation and restoration of the flexible, catering to the adjacent a whole, while reinforcing the unique natural environment while identifying growing community. character and setting of each area of areas for improvement and growth 6. Integrate architectural the Park in the context of the overall that support the overall character and improvements within Humber site. The Master Plan proposes a new function of the park. This vision is Bay Park with adjacent landscape, comprehensive design approach that based on the following objectives: to meet ecological, regulatory will enhance the valued naturalized and overall site enhancement landscape, habitat and recreational 1. Protect and enhance existing objectives. uses in the park, while identifying natural environment by creating 7. Improve the lighting strategy, new opportunities for improvements new aquatic and terrestrial habitat areas that enhance to enhance public safety, while that will respond to both the existing achieving the highest standard of and future needs of the community. biodiversity and ecological functions. habitat protection, the reduction The proposed plan is based on the of light pollution and enhanced following guiding principles: 2. Improve overall connectivity, energy efficiency. unifying the overall park, • The design will celebrate and establishing a hierarchy of The organization of the Master enhance the existing natural beauty routes, trails and pathways that Plan document is based on five and sense of respite from the meet AODA criteria, where geographic areas of the park, urban city, while accommodating appropriate. The design involves identified by the unique defining the growing number of park adjusting the existing layout, characteristics and outlined in chapter users and managing existing user reducing areas of conflict 5. Each area is assessed based on conflicts. between cyclists and pedestrians the above stated objectives and • The existing flora and fauna to and creating new connections considered both independently and be protected, while providing with the goal of improving as part of the park as a whole. opportunities for interpretation pedestrian and cyclist movement. Through strategic site reorganization, and appreciation of the park’s 3. Improve parking and vehicular topographic changes, planting, natural heritage attributes. circulation in order to address habitat and materials, a new vision • The park continues to be a local existing and future parking and identity will be established for park for nearby residents while requirements, while reducing the Humber Bay Park. This vision will embracing its place in the larger extent of paved surfaces and the build upon and enhance the park’s network of open spaces along quantity of storm water run-off. existing character, while providing Toronto’s waterfront. The park a strong organizing framework that should accommodate a diversity of will improve overall operation and park users and needs. allowing for the park to evolve with the needs of the adjacent community.

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION 7 1.1 Humber Bay Park Today...... 8 1.2 Context of Humber Bay Park...... 10 1.3 Evolution of the Site...... 12 1.4 The Master Plan Process...... 14 1.5 Purpose of the Master Plan...... 16

2.0 BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 19 2.1 Getting to the Park...... 20 2.2 Parking...... 22 2.3 Getting Around the Park...... 24 2.4 Wayfinding & Signage...... 26 2.5 Water Bodies...... 28 2.6 Inland Water Features...... 30 2.7 Natural Environment...... 32 2.8 Vegetation Communities...... 34 2.9 Wildlife...... 36 2.10 Buildings...... 38 2.11 Programming...... 40 2.12 Site Drainage...... 42 2.13 Site Services...... 44 2.14 Lighting...... 48 2.15 Challenges & Opportunities...... 50

3.0 VISION & OBJECTIVES 55 3.1 Master Plan Vision...... 56 3.2 Guiding Principles...... 58 3.3 Master Plan Objectives...... 60

4.0 THE MASTER PLAN 65 4.1 The Illustrative Master Plan...... 66

5.0 THE INTEGRATED PARK 69 5.1 An Enriched Shoreline Experience...... 70 5.2 Humber Bay Park Character Areas...... 72 5.3 A Unified Park Core...... 74 5.4 West Entrance Market...... 76 5.5 Western Peninsula...... 80 5.6 East Entrance Meadow...... 84 5.7 Ponds & Linear Wetland...... 88 5.8 Eastern Naturalized Peninsula...... 92

4 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN 6.0 PARK COMPONENTS 95 6.1 Vehicular Access...... 96 6.2 Parking...... 98 6.3 Active Transportation...... 100 6.4 Pathways & Trails...... 102 6.5 Bridges & Crossings...... 104 6.6 Ponds & Linear Wetland...... 106 6.7 Shoreline Experiences...... 108 6.8 Natural Environment ...... 110 6.9 Architectural Improvements...... 114 6.10 Wayfinding & Signage...... 116 6.11 Park Programs & Features...... 118 6.12 Stormwater Management Strategy...... 124 6.13 Site Servicing Strategy...... 126 6.14 Lighting Strategy...... 128

7.0 MANAGEMENT PLAN 131 7.1 Management Plan...... 132 7.2 Maintenance Recommendations...... 134

8.0 IMPLEMENTATION & PHASING 139 8.1 Master Plan Implementation...... 140 8.2 Small-Scale & Incremental Projects...... 142 8.3 Medium-Scale Projects...... 144 8.4 Large-Scale Projects...... 146

APPENDICES Appendix 1: Public Consultation Meeting Summaries Appendix 2: Humber Bay Park Project Survey Online Summary of Findings Report, March 2017 Appendix 3: Humber Bay Park Terrestrial Biological Inventory and Assessment, March, 2014 Appendix 4: Preliminary Paid Parking Usage Results for Humber Bay Parks, October 2016

5 View of Humber Bay Park and Creek from residential towers north of West

6 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN INTRODUCTION 1

7 1.1 HUMBER BAY PARK TODAY

Located at the mouth of and extending out into Lake , Humber Bay Park is one of the largest parks along Toronto’s waterfront.

Established in 1984, the 43-hectare Part of the Mimico Creek watershed, The shorelines of Humber Bay park is owned by the Toronto and the park exists as two large peninsulas Park provide some of the most Region Conservation Authority that flank the mouth of Mimico Creek breathtaking views of the downtown (TRCA) and operated by the City of where it discharges into . Toronto skyline, presenting a rare Toronto Parks, Forestry & Recreation Although the landmass of Humber opportunity to escape the intensity of Division. Bay Park is entirely man-made, it has the City and urban condition. become a naturalized green space The park is located south west of the that contains a diversity of vegetation intersection of Parklawn Avenue, Lake communities that provide important Shore Boulevard West and Marine habitat for seasonal resident wildlife Parade Drive. It is easily accessible by species and migrating species (e.g. transit and is connected to local and stopover habitat for birds). regional cycling networks, along the Waterfront Trail.

The City skyline framed by the naturalized landscape of Humber Bay Park

8 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Despite being classified as a regional In addition, the lack of any notable Recognizing the significance of park, Humber Bay Park has evolved upgrades to the park’s infrastructure Humber Bay Park as an important into a well-loved neighbourhood combined with the increased use has amenity for current and future green space and remains a well-kept resulted in significantlevels of wear residents of the Greater Toronto secret among city-dwelling nature and tear, deterioration and disrepair. Area, the TRCA and the City lovers. During the past 5 - 10 years, of Toronto commissioned this as a result of the increasing density in Master Plan to review the existing the Mimico neighbourhood and other conditions, highlight issues and neighbourhoods in the immediate identify opportunities to guide future vicinity of the park, the park has improvements to the park, in order to been under increasing pressure to protect its unique character, enhance accommodate larger numbers of its function and ensure its continued visitors. sustainability.

INTRODUCTION 9 1.2 CONTEXT OF HUMBER BAY PARK

Humber Bay Park is an important component of the network of waterfront parks and although it is a constructed land form it is one of the few naturalized places along Toronto’s Waterfront.

Mimico Neighbourhood Humber Bay Park is located within the Mimico neighbourhood. H Royal York Rd. umber River Established in 1856, Mimico is the oldest of Toronto’s former Lakeshore municipalities. M im i Mimico is now primarily a residential co C neighbourhood that is currently re e Park Lawn Rd. undergoing rapid growth. This k increase in population is translating into an increase in the number of Islington Ave. park users and increasing pressure on W.

Kipling Ave. existing park infrastructure. HWY 427

The Humber Bay & Humber Bay Shores area is one of the fastest growing new communities in Toronto, with approximately 12,000 current residents and an anticipated 10,000 more residents by 2020. Community demographics are changing as more young families become part of this The Queensway neighbourhood. Regional Parks & Waterfront Open Spaces Mimico Humber Bay Park is an important GO Station regional-scale park at the mouth of the Mimico Creek watershed. The park is an important stop along the Waterfront Trail. E to b i co 1a. Humber Bay Park West k e C 1b. Humber Bay Park East re e k 2. Park 3. Colonel Samuel Smith Park Lake Shore Blvd. West 4. Mimico Waterfront Park Longbranch GO Station 5. Humber Bay Shores Park 6. Sunnyside Beach 7. 8. Marylin Bell Park 3 9. 10. Coronation Park 11. Toronto Island Parks 2

Humber Bay Park in the context of Toronto’s waterfront parks

10 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN H umber River

Parkside Dr. Dundas St. W.

7 College St. W.

Queen St. W.

6 Exhibition GO Station 10 5 8 Humber Bay Shores 9 Neighbourhood

1b

1km 11 1a Lake

2km 4 Ontario

3km

4km

Mimico Neighbourhood 5km Legend

6km Humber Bay Park

City Parks and Open Space

Mimico and Humber Bay Shores Neighbourhoods

Waterfront Trail

Walking Radius (1km = approx. 15 minute walk)

INTRODUCTION 11 1.3 EVOLUTION OF THE SITE

Humber Bay Park began to evolve in the 1970’s as part of a new shoreline strategy for Lake Ontario.

Overview: A Changing Waterfront Humber Bay Park was conceived by The 1970 plan was primarily focused In 1993, the MTRCA undertook the the Metropolitain Toronto and Region on the area that would become ‘Project for Motel Strip Conservation Authority (MTRCA) in Humber Bay Park East, featuring Waterfront Park’, allowing them to 1970. Most of the land mass of the options for a residential island with establish and undertake programs park was created through lake-filling heavily programmed recreational designed to conserve, restore, operations during the 1970s and spaces associated with new develop and manage the natural 1980s, reaching its final and current commercial development along Lake resources in the area over which built form in the early 1990s. Shore Boulevard West. it has jurisdiction. The purpose of the project was to implement the Previous Plans In 1975, the TRCA undertook an Etobicoke Motel Strip Public Amenity The original Master Plan for the environmental review of the Master Scheme, to ensure public access to Metropolitan , Plans for the area, that resulted in the waterfront, to create a regional Phase I — Etobicoke Sector, was recommendations for shoreline waterfront linkage between Humber commissioned in 1970 for the modifications that set the framework Bay East and the and Metropolitan Toronto Planning Board. for Humber Bay Park as we know to implement a comprehensive fish It was an ambitious proposal to create it today, including the private boat habitat compensation plan. new land through lake filling at the clubs in Humber Bay Park West mouth of Mimico Creek. The landform Since its inception, the park has was to be a highly programmed, In the early 1990s, the economic evolved into a natural and quiet development-led and funded new climate changed and the intense refuge for both people and neighbourhood that would offer development originally intended for wildlife. Located in close proximity public amenities for the immediate the new landform was abandoned as to a well established residential and neighbouring communities. its financial viability was in put into community and an evolving high question. By this time, significant rise neighbourhood, the park and its investment in shaping the landform infrastructure are under new pressure had been made by all levels of to meet the demands of an increasing government. The Ontario Municipal population, while maintaining their Board and cabinet determined that highly valued naturalized character. the public amenities in place would The 2018 Master Plan will be the first be of regional significance and to address the park in its completed attraction and should be publicly built form. funded.

1950 1966 1970

Evolution of the Humber Bay Park shoreline from 1950 to 2018

12 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Ongoing Development Currently, there is considerable development taking place within the adjacent Mimico and Humber Bay Shores communities. The number of residents in this area has significantly increased over the last 5 years with numerous condominium towers being developed along Lake Shore Boulevard West, Park Lawn Road and Marine Parade Drive. New development and increased population has attracted a new demographic of residents to the park. As a result, there has been keen interest in the redevelopment of the public realm - including parks and trail improvements for of this new high density node immediately adjacent to Humber Bay Park.

This is an important and influencing consideration in the evaluation and development of the Humber Bay Park Master Plan. 1970 Master Plan for the Metropolitain Toronto Waterfront, Etobicoke Sector, by Johnson Sustronk Weinstein + Associates Limited

1975 1983 2018

INTRODUCTION 13 1.4 THE MASTER PLAN PROCESS

In 2015, The City of Toronto commissioned a Master Plan with the goal of generating a new vision for Humber Bay Park.

Developing the Master Plan Public Consultation Process The Master Plan represents a 3. Preliminary Master Plan To ensure the relevance of the Master collaborative effort between the The preliminary Master Plan Plan to the public and the local TRCA , the City, community groups, synthesized initial concepts into a community, the design process was residents, advocates and design that was presented to staff, public designed to include an interactive professionals. The work was divided consultation as well as stakeholder public consultation process. Public into a number of key phases outlined and committee input for feedback meetings were open to all members below. and further refinement. of the community and were advertised on the City’s website as 1. Inventory & Analysis 4. Costing and Phasing: well as through flyers that were sent After an extensive review of A high-level cost estimate was to residents in the neighbourhood. background documentation, prepared for the implementation of meetings with City staff, the TRCA, the Master Plan. The cost estimate Public Meetings park operations and maintenance was divided into phases for possible Three public meetings were hosted staff and a site inventory, a series of implementation based on park user to share information and gather design principles and objectives were needs, opportunities for coordination feedback through the Master Plan developed to support the vision for with other improvement initiatives process. The input from these the Master Plan. and funding availability. sessions was used to establish immediate and long-term objectives 2. Concepts & Alternatives 5. Final Master Plan for the park. The initial background analysis A preferred design concept identified a number of opportunities for the Park was developed In addition, two public open house and constraints which informed based on a synthesis of the draft meetings were held for the Humber the some preliminary design explorations and in response to Bay Park East Building Project. The concepts and alternatives. The staff, public consultation as well public consultation for the new protection and enhancement of as stakeholder and committee building in Humber Bay Park East was natural habitat, improvements to the input. The document includes a conducted in coordination with the existing ponds in Humber Bay Park summary of the site analysis, design Master Plan, to ensure that the new East, improvements to the park’s principles and guidelines and sets building would be consistent with infrastructure, pathways, lighting out recommendations for proposed the guiding principles set out in the and seasonal programming were improvements that support the vision Master Plan. identified as key opportunities. for the park that was established in Community Resource Groups the earlier stages of the project. The Community Resource Group (CRG) was established to provide input, guidance and advice during the design phase of the Project.

Members of the CRG were selected through an open process. The selection process was designed to include people who would represent the various interest groups and stakeholders in the Humber Bay Park area. The primary goal of the CRG was to represent the community, business groups and park/trail users and provide input to assist in the successful completion of the design phase of the Master Plan. Farmers market pop-up consultation Dogs off-leash area site walk

14 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Additional Consultation Public Consultation Timeline A series of 3 Architectural Community Comments and suggestions about Master Plan Public Engagement Resource Group Meetings (ACRG) the content of the Master Plan were Dates: were organized to provide feedback invited throughout the development 1. Public Meeting #1: and input to the Humber Bay Park of the Master Plan. Questionnaires February 16, 2016 East Building Project. The ACRG was were distributed at public meetings 2. CRG Meeting #1: a separate group with members, and surveys were available on the April 6, 2016 selected through a similar open City’s project website, affording process, with many members having additional opportunities for input. 3. CRG Meeting #2: a cross-over role with the Master Plan May 16, 2016 • A pop-up consultation was held CRG group to provide continuity and 4. HBP Farmers Market Pop-up on June 11, 2016, during the consistency between both projects. Consultation: weekly farmers market. Preliminary June 11, 2016 The Community Resource group for principles and objectives for the the Humber Bay Park Master Plan was Master Plan were displayed and 5. Public Meeting #2: comprised of the following member visitors were advised of upcoming June 15, 2016 groups: public meetings. 6. Online Survey: • Although the land occupied by the May 6, 2016 to June 30, 2016 • Animal Alliance of private boat clubs is not included 7. CRG Meeting #3: • Citizens Concerned about the in the scope of this Master Plan, September 14, 2016 Future of Etobicoke Waterfront a series of meetings were held (CCFEW) with the clubs to understand 8. Public Meeting #3: September 9, 2016 • Cycle Toronto their functional and operational requirements within the context of 9. CRG Meeting #4: • Dogs Off-Leash Users Humber Bay Park. February 6, 2017 • Franklin Horner Community Centre • An online survey was conducted 10. CRG Meeting #5: • Friends of Humber Bay Park related to a concurrent project, December 5, 2017 (FOHBP) that was aimed at upgrading the existing buildings in Humber Bay • Humber Bay Shores Condo Park East. The preliminary results of Architectural Public Engagement Association (HBSCA) the survey were presented in Public Dates • Local Residents and Park/Trail users Meeting #3 and subsequently on 1. HBP East Building ACRG #1: • Metro Marine modellers the City’s website. April 5, 2017 Association 2. HBP East Building ACRG #2: • Mimico Resident’s Association July 5, 2017 • Toronto Field Naturalists 3. HBP East Building ACRG #3: August 30, 2017 • Toronto Ornithological Club 4. HBP Building • Urban Fishing Ambassadors Architecture Public Meeting #1: • Humber Bay Park Boat Clubs October 30, 2017 5. HBP Building, Architecture Public Meeting #2: July 12, 2018

INTRODUCTION 15 1.5 PURPOSE OF THE MASTER PLAN

The Humber Bay Park Master Plan will establish a vision and design to protect and enhance the valued landscape, habitat and recreational uses for generations to come.

Purpose of the Master Plan The role of the Master Plan is to The primary vision is aimed at greater The document is structured to ensure that ongoing state of good integration of the park as a whole, provide guidance to the city and repair projects, future budget while reinforcing the unique character TRCA to address any changes that projections and capital projects and setting of each area of the Park would be required to the Master Plan continue to build upon the vision for in the context of the overall site. The to ensure it remains relevant as the Humber Bay Park. The Master Plan is Master Plan intends to: needs of the city and neighbouring intended to be a living document that communities evolve. is to be updated and revised as the • Establishes a vision and design to needs and vision for the park change protect and enhance the valued Details on how this can be over time. naturalized landscape, habitat and implemented are presented in recreational uses in the park; Chapter 8 - Implementation and This Master Plan is a visioning tool, • Improves safety and access to and Phasing. intended to define short and long- within the park; term goals for the park and to guide the implementation of projects and • Ensures that proposed capital improvements for years to improvements respond to existing come. and future needs of the community and City residents.

The dynamic shoreline at Humber Bay Park West

16 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN How to Use the Master Plan This document will present an This inventory is followed by Relevant background and reference existing site inventory summarizing chapters addressing maintenance information that served the basis existing challenges and areas of and operations and finally phasing for the development of the Master concern. The vision, design objectives and implementation. It should be Plan will be included in Chapter 9 - and proposed ‘big moves’ and key noted that this document is intended Appendices. concepts of the Master Plan are to act as a guiding document and described in a step-by-step format. a framework for future design and capital investment initiatives as well as smaller park projects completed in a localized area.

INTRODUCTION 17 View of the Humber Bay Park West shoreline

18 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 2

19 2.1 GETTING TO THE PARK

Access to the park has not kept pace with the evolution of the Mimico neighbourhood and lacks a strong presence and identity where it meets the City.

An New Urban Frontage Humber Bay Park is both an The entrance to Humber Bay Park Transit Urban park that acts at a City wide East is located on a sharp curve along There are TTC streetcar stops on Lake destination and a naturalized park Marine Parade Drive and the lack of a Shore Boulevard West at the entrance where people come to escape, defining entrance feature or creates to Humber Bay Park West and at the celebrate and interact with nature. a non-descript frontage for the park. intersection of Marine Parade Drive The park flanks both the east and The sidewalk along the north edge (Park Lawn) , with additional bus stops west sides of the Mimico Creek of the park is in poor condition and located on Park Lawn Road and along and begins where the Mimico affords very poor visibility as it crosses Marine Parade Drive. The Mimico Go Creek passes beneath Lake Shore into Humber Bay Park West. station is approximately 2km from the Boulevard West. Ongoing residential entrance to Humber Bay Park West development has created a densely In addition to poor visibility and and falls within a 30 minute walking populated neighbourhood with a new connectivity along city streets, there radius from the park. condition along the northern edge of also lacks a strong connection Humber Bay Park, yet the entrance to between the east and west halves of The Waterfront Trail the park can easily be overlooked. the park, with very little wayfinding In Humber Bay Park West, the within the park to direct visitors to the Waterfront Trail enters Humber Bay Mimico crossing. Park along the fenced edge of the Humber Bay Sailing School, merging into the park’s path system behind a maintenance building and storage yard. In Humber Bay Park East, the trail enters into the park within the Humber Bay large expanse of the main entrance drive. In general, the Waterfront Trail merges into Humber Bay Park, poorly marked and with limited to no fanfare M im or minimal signage to direct tail users i co C into the park. re ek The places where the trail meets Mimico Creek the park are noted conflict zones between slow-moving park users and through traffic on the Waterfront Trail that is moving at higher speeds.

Lake Ontario Legend

Main Park entrance

GO Train

Roadway

Waterfront Trail

TTC Streetcar Stop

TTC Bus Stop

Existing vehicular access to and within Humber Bay Park

20 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Speed humps mark pedestrian In addition to providing vehicular In both instances, the entrances to crossings in Humber Bay Park West, access for park visitors, the road the park are unsignalized. Roadways but aside from centre medians at the serves as a primary access for the ranging from 6.5m to 7m in width, are entrances to the park, there are no private boat clubs. The roadway must asphalt paved with removable curbs directional pavement markings, nor accommodate vehicles with boat installed long the edge of pavement. any markings to indicate a shared trailers as well as the delivery of large surface for cyclists. cranes to serve the needs of the boat Pedestrian Crossings clubs and public boat launch. Pedestrian and cyclist crossings at the Vehicular Access entrance drives for Humber Bay Park The entrance to Humber Bay Park The entrance to Humber Bay East and West are marked with speed West is located on Lake Shore Park East is located directly off of humps and paint markings. However, Boulevard West. The roadway extends Marine Parade Drive, leading to a these intersections are a point of to the western end of the peninsula long winding entrance drive that conflict for visitors as there is no clear and terminates in a small roundabout. terminates in a large parking lot, with definition of which user has the right- a small drop-off area and roundabout. of-way.

Lake Shore Boulevard West park entrance

Marine Parade Drive park entrance

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 21 2.2 PARKING

Parking availability within Humber Bay Park is not consistent with patterns of use and does not complement the current needs of park users.

Parking Lots The entrance to Humber Bay Park In comparison, the three small Despite the large number of cyclists West is dominated by a large parking parking lots distributed west along that travel into and through Humber lot, originally intended for fishing the peninsula are often at or beyond Bay Park, bike parking is notably derbies and event staging, where capacity - demonstrating a need for lacking. Only 2-3 bicycle parking large numbers of visitors would flock better access to address the uses and spaces were noted in Humber Bay to the park, requiring parking for the amenities at the far reaches of the Park East and approximately 9 spaces boat trailers and spectators. Large park. in the main parking lot at Humber Bay events still take place in the park, Park West. but the type, frequency and nature Parking in Humber Bay Park East is of these events have changed, with concentrated in one lot, depositing the exception of annual Canada users into an enclosed, bermed Day, air shows and other large-scale space with little physical or visual events that draw large crowds to the connection to the park and park waterfront. features beyond. The expansive paved surface is at odds with the naturalized character of the east peninsula.

Humber Bay

M im i co A C re ek Legend

Existing Public Parking A. Humber Bay Park East Lot B 228 Spaces D B. Humber Bay Park West Lot C (Site of Farmers Market) E 80 Spaces C. Humber Bay Park West Lot 144 Spaces Lake D. Humber Bay Park West Lot Ontario 28 Spaces E. Humber Bay Park West Boat F Launch - No parking F. Humber Bay Park West Lot G 22 Spaces G. Humber Bay Park West Lot 22 Spaces H. Humber Bay Park West Lot H (dogs off-leash area) 10 Spaces

Existing Private Lease Holder Parking Existing parking in Humber Bay Park

22 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Summary of Current Parking Comparison of Parking Availability Availability and Use in Other Waterfront Parks (Based on figures obtained from the Toronto Parking Authority (TPA) for July 2016, where peak occupancy over 85% is considered over-capacity)

• The single, large lot in Humber Bay Park East is generally under used on weekdays and approaches capacity on weekends with up to 86% peak occupancy recorded. • The largest lot in Humber Bay Park West, nearest to the park entrance is under used at all times of the week. The highest peak occupancy recorded is 60%, during the weekly Sunday farmers market. • The small lots along the peninsula of Humber Bay Park West are routinely over capacity on Humber Bay Park Colonel Samuel Smith Park weekends, with peak occupancy of Public park area: 36 hectares Public park area: 41.3 hectares up to 180% recorded. (Private marinas not included) (Private marina not included) Total parking spaces: 512 Total parking spaces: 240 • The westernmost lot in Humber 14.2 spaces / hectare 5.8 spaces / hectare Bay Park West, nearest to the dogs off-leash area is consistently over capacity, with peak occupancy of up to 170% recorded. • The primary users for the large parking lots in Humber Bay East and West during weekday business hours appear to be workers from nearby construction sites and transit users leaving cars for the day, rather than visitors to the park itself. • Refer to Chapter 9 - Appendices for parking use statistics.

Marie Curtis Park Ashbridges Bay Park Public park area: 34 hectares Public park area: 43 hectares Total parking spaces: 252 (Private marina not included) 7.4 spaces / hectare Total parking spaces: 387 9 spaces / hectare

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 23 2.3 GETTING AROUND THE PARK

Humber Bay Park is comprised of a series formal and informal pathways that are in poor repair and result in user conflicts.

Pathways and Trails Primary Pathways A parallel path also leads from the Bay Park East and to the dogs off- The main pathways in Humber pond loop, toward the Air India leash area in Humber Bay Park West. Bay Park West generally follow Memorial. The path is not signed In some areas, heavy use by park the main vehicular road, offering and the memorial has no visual link visitors and maintenance vehicles has few opportunities to diverge to the surrounding park spaces and resulted in the deterioration of these from the main path. The primary the portion of the memorial at the pathways, resulting in ponding and asphalt pathway terminates at the shoreline. Physical access to the rutted, uneven surfaces that make roundabout in the most westerly memorial is interrupted by steps pedestrian access difficult. reaches of the park. along the pathway, forcing cyclists and visitors using mobility devices to Informal trails have been worn In Humber Bay Park East, the main detour onto a makeshift path worn through the vegetation creating asphalt pathway connects the parking into the adjacent sodded area. shortcuts through dense vegetation lot and Waterfront Trail and Humber and providing access to the water’s Bay shores park to the east, providing Secondary Paths and trails edge and affording an intimate a loop around the man-made ponds. A series of limestone pathways experience for wildlife observation. throughout the park provide access to the naturalized portions of Humber Lack of Pathway Hierarchy Throughout Humber Bay Park, there is a general lack of hierarchy and order in the path system. There are no trail Humber heads or markers, no directional or Bay distance markers and no clear and E direct connection between the two M parks. im i co D C re ek Legend C Waterfront Trail

Existing Paved Pathways

B Existing Unpaved Trails

Park Bridges and Boardwalks A City Sidewalks Lake (On Park Adjacent Roads) Ontario Crossing / Point of Conflict A. Waterfront Trail entrance to Humber Bay Park West B. Waterfront Trail Roadway Crossing in Humber Bay Park West C. Mimico Creek Bridge D. Waterfront Trail entrance to Humber Bay Park West E. Entrance from Home Garden and Butterfly Habitat in Humber Bay Shores Park Existing network of pathways and trails in Humber Bay Park

24 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Bridges and Boardwalks Pathway Crossings Mimico Creek Bridge Humber Bay Park East Pond At the entrance drives to the park, The Mimico Creek Bridge is the Bridges pesestrian-cyclist-vehicular conflicts primary connection between Humber The bridge over the weir at the south are an important safety consideration. Bay Park East and West. However, its edge of the westernmost pond and The intersection of the Waterfront location at the north end of the Park, the bridge crossing the water channel Trail at the main entrance drive to just south of Lake shore Boulevard east of the ponds are routinely Humber Bay Park West coincides with West, does not provide a convenient used by maintenance vehicles. The the entrance to the main parking lot, or logical connection to important wood decking on these structures is causing conflicts and safety hazards park features and amenities in the severely deteriorated and the width when large numbers pf pedestrians east and west halves of the park. of the bridges is insufficient to allow are using the space for the summer larger vehicles to cross, forcing them farmer’s market or other events. The Mimico Creek bridge deck is to make a circuitous loop through the 2.5m wide and over the years, the more sensitive eastern areas of the Throughout the park, pedestrian- bridge has become a bottleneck for park. cyclist conflicts occur due to poor cyclists and pedestrians travelling signage and lack of clarity and along the Waterfront Trail. The Pond Boardwalks hierarchy at visibility at pathway wooden bridge deck is decaying and The boardwalks that divide the ponds intersections. cumulative temporary repairs have are constructed on piles to allow left the surface rutted and uneven. winter snow removal. These and other Accessibility wooden structures surrounding the There is minimalgrade change within Toronto Stormwater Management ponds and building in Humber Bay Humber Bay Park, however, access Facility Crossing Park East exhibit significant rotting, to the water’s edge is difficult for The existing bridge connecting splintering and warping. visitors with limited mobility. Many Humber Bay Park to Humber Bay of the unpaved pathway surfaces are Shores Park, the Home Garden and not maintained consistently through butterfly Habitat is in good condition, out the year, yet no signage is posted however, heavy pedestrian and cyclist informing visitors that a path may not traffic often conflict with visitors using be fully accessible. In Humber Bay the bridge as a lookout and with Park West, the linear pathway system anglers using the bridge as a fishing does not offer the opportunity to walk location. a shorter circuit without retracing one’s steps and there are limited opportunities for rest or shelter from the elements.

In addition, there is no wayfinding guidance within the park to direct visitors into and through the site. There is minimal seating available in the park and when available, benches are often not accessible from the trails. Benches and other site furnishings do not meet accessibility standards, are also in poor condition and provide limited experiences within the park.

Informal trail in Humber Bay Park East Mimico Creek bridge

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 25 2.4 WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE

The existing Park signage does not delineate trailheads or key features and can be expanded to help guide park users to and throughout the park.

Park Identity Signs Wayfinding and Directional Interpretive Signs Signs The park is marked at its two Interpretive Signs entrances by large City of Toronto Trail Heads There are very few interpretive signs Parks, Forestry and Recreation park The issues related to pathways and in the park that identify and describe identification signs. The signs are trails are closely linked to the lack of potentially interesting elements within consistent with older City of Toronto directional and wayfinding signage in the park. parks signs, with the name and the park. address of the Park and are clearly There is a commemorative plaque visible from the road. There are no trail heads leading at the Air India Memorial, as well as visitors from park entrances and an interpretive plaque located in the The signs offer very little information parking lots toward the features and overgrown amphitheater in Humber about the park itself, the size of the amenities of the park. Bay Park East. park, its location on the waterfront, or the amenities offered within. Within the park, there are no markers at the intersections of trails to mark routes and provide directional or distance information at path and trail intersections.

Despite the large area of the Humber Bay Park, no maps or orientation information are provided to locate visitors within the park, or to inform users regarding the choice of routes that are available to take to reach a particular destination.

Humber Bay Park West entrance sign Paths without adequate wayfinding in Commemorative plaque at Air India Humber Bay Park East memorial 26 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Regulatory Signs Confusion and Conflicts There are a limited number of Conflicts occur at the intersections Confusion arises from the lack of regulatory signs indicating the dogs of paths and roadways, where no information about the park itself off-leash area and stipulating parking direction is provided to direct visitors and what activities are encouraged. regulations, speed limits, applicable into or through the park. A number of dangerous or illegal City by-laws and TRCA regulations. activities routinely occur within the • There are no directional or park, yet no information is provided regulatory signs situated where to discourage these activities: the Waterfront Trail enters Humber Bay Park. Cyclists travelling along • There are no signs indicating the the Waterfront Trail and moving at prohibition of camp fires, despite a high rate of speed often conflict the prevalence of such destructive with the slower-moving park users. activities. • There is a point of conflict where • There are no signs warning of the Waterfront Trail crosses the the dangers of swimming in Lake driveway entrance into Humber Ontario that arise from the deep Bay Park West. At this location, and cold waters and currents off pedestrians, cyclists and motorists the shores of the park and the all converge at an oversized and constantly eroding landmass that expansive intersection with poor exposes potentially dangerous indication of what user has priority. structures below the surface of the water. • There are unintended conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists • There are no signs highlighting within the park itself since there is sensitive habitats and nesting no clarity on the intended users of areas. pathways. • There are no guidelines or signs associated with the shorelines of the park to inform visitors of the hazards below the surface of the water.

Regulatory signs Shared-use pathway Swimmers at Humber Bay Park West

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 27 2.5 WATER BODIES

Humber Bay Park is a Waterfront Park with a dynamic shoreline but with an ambiguous and sometimes difficult relationship to water.

Lake Ontario Mimico Creek Humber Bay Park is a man-made land Mimico Creek is a natural boundary The TRCA has established two mass that extends approximately between Humber Bay Park East and wetlands at the mouth of the creek. 650m into Lake Ontario. The West. These wetlands feature shallow construction of the park created an water and woody debris in sheltered additional 7.5 km of new shoreline, Regulated by the TRCA, the Mimico embayments. 6.2 km of which is publicly accessible Creek watershed covers 7,700 today. hectares, all of which is urbanized. (Source: TRCA, Etobicoke and Mimico Mimico Creek originates 33 km to Creek, 2012) Humber Bay Park is in close proximity the north of Lake Ontario, in the to the Humber Wastewater Treatment City of and is artificially Plant but because the park shoreline channelized for over to 60% of its does not have designated swimming length. Stormwater runoff is , water quality is not primary source of water pollution in monitored. the creek.

Lake Ontario

Legend

Humber Bay Park

Mimico Creek Watershed

1. Humber Bay Park and the Mimico Creek watershed

28 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Shoreline Access & Hazards Despite being a peninsula, Unlike the natural shoreline of surrounded by water on three sides Lake Ontario, the Humber Bay Park and split in half by a watercourse, shoreline does not deepen gradually, access to the water at Humber Bay but rapidly drops off into deep and Park is very limited. frigid water.

The Lake Ontario shoreline at Humber • A thin layer of soil covers the Bay Park is comprised of armourstone construction fill that makes up the revetments and engineered beaches landmass of Humber Bay Park. The to protect the park from coastal erosion caused by the constant conditions. Although these structures wave action is continually exposing provide some access to the interface new hazards including rebar and of land and water, they are designed rubble that lie below the surface. for erosion control purposes and not • Except during high flow or storm for public recreation. events, the mouth of Mimico Creek The shoreline of Humber Bay park is very shallow and has very little is not within the scope of the Master current - approaching stagnation Plan, as it is a constantly changing - to remove sedimentation and environment due to water levels and debris. wave action. TRCA, in partnership • The existing boat launch on with the City of Toronto, regularly Mimico Creek is in a poor state of monitors this shoreline to identify repair and is unuseable. The mouth maintenance and enhancement of the creek is currently navigable opportunities. These assessments only by non-motorized small inform prioritization and budgetary watercraft. decisions regarding the Lake • Despite the city and TRCA efforts Ontario shoreline within the TRCA’s to clean up and remove debris, jurisdiction. the waste accumulation is constant along the shorelines.

Construction fill exposed by wave action Hazardous Lake Ontario waters Debris at Mimico Creek boat launch

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 29 2.6 INLAND WATER FEATURES

Like the entire park, inland water features in Humber Bay Park East are man-made and are not naturally connected to Lake Ontario.

Humber Bay Park East Ponds and Channel In order to contain water, the ponds • The centre pond was designed as a Located within the man-made are lined with an impervious layer of fly casting pond. landmass of Humber Bay Park East, bentonite clay. The bentonite lining • The easternmost pond and channel the inland ponds and water channel has been found to be in overall good were designed as a naturalized are not naturally connected to the condition, with the exception of a fishing amenity. Lake and water levels are artificially small breach that is located on the maintained at approximately 1.25m south side of the linear water channel. Water Quality: above Lake Ontario water levels. • Algae blooms and vegetation The three ponds were designed overgrowth are a common • Pond High Water Level: 76.30 in early 1980s and were originally occurrence in the summer due intended to be highly programmed to shallow water, warm water • Lake Ontario Average: 75.05 public amenities: temperature, insufficient circulation and high nutrients due to aquatic • The westernmost pond was birds. originally designed for model boat sailing & skating. • The ponds were originally intended to be chemically treated to prevent the proliferation of algae although this practice has long been abandoned. Humber • Water depth in the westernmost Bay D pond has been significantly A reduced due to the build up of M 5 organic debris. im 4 i co C re ek B 3 C Legend

D Natural Water Bodies 1. Lake Ontario 2 2. Mouth of Mimico Creek Humber Bay Park Water Bodies Lake Ontario 3. Humber Bay Ponds 4. Humber Bay Water Channel

City of Toronto Facilities 1 5. Toronto Water Stormwater Management Facility

Pond Pumps and Equipment A. Pump Chamber and Water Intake Pipe B. Main (Summer) Pump C. Secondary (Winter) Pump D. Outfall Inland water features in and around Humber Bay Park

30 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Pumps and Equipment: • A pump chamber is located in allows water levels to drop slightly Water levels are maintained by close proximity to the intake pipe. and maintains a small zone of open pumping water from Lake Ontario, When Lake Ontario water levels water in the easternmost pond. through the ponds and water channel are high, the pump chamber • Two outfalls are located at either and discharging it back into the lake. periodically floods. The chamber is ends of the ponds and water The pond depth is maintained at approximately 3.5m deep making channel. The first is at the southern approximately 1m deep: servicing difficult due to confined end of the west pond where a weir space training requirements. structure is located below the small • The water intake for the ponds is • The main (summer) pump outlet is bridge, allowing the system to be located in the embayment east of located in the rock fountain below drained entirely. The second is at the Air India Memorial. The shallow the bridge that separates the the far east end of the linear water inlet draws warm water and debris ponds from the water channel. This channel, discharging water into the into the system, contributing to the pump moves water through the East Embayment. algae blooms in the ponds and entire system. making pumps more susceptible to City of Toronto Stormwater clogging. • A secondary (winter) pump outlet Management Facility The large water body north of the parking lot in Humber Bay Park East is a City of Toronto stormwater management facility and is not within the scope of the Master Plan. Also known as a Dunkers Flow balancing system, the facility consists of 5 cells, which are separated by PVC curtains suspended from floating pontoons. The system intercepts contaminants flowing from the combined sewer outflows into Lake Ontario through progressive gravitational settling.

The largest basin is the final step in treatment process. This basin functions as a wetland and provides some habitat and viewing opportunities for nesting Red-necked Grebes and other aquatic species. As this is an active Toronto Water facility, the functional requirements for stormwater management do not allow for further naturalization, habitat creation or public access.

Algae in Humber Bay Park East ponds

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 31 2.7 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

The entire shoreline of the park is regulated by the TRCA, including wetland embayments in Humber Bay Park East and West.

TRCA Regulated Areas Humber Bay Park is located within The main objectives of the TRCA TRCA Wetland Embayments the TRCA Regulated Areas. (O. regulations are to ensure public There are 3 wetlands within Humber Reg. 166/06: Toronto and Region safety, protect property with respect Bay Park that are monitored by the Conservation Authority: Regulation to natural hazards and prevent TRCA. These areas are protected of Development, Interference pollution and destruction of within TRCA regulation limits. These with Wetlands and Alterations to environmentally sensitive areas such include two embayments along the Shorelines and Watercourses). as watercourses, wetlands and the shoreline of Mimico Creek, and one Lake Ontario shoreline. embayment

Over 66% of the 43 ha. landmass of the park falls under TRCA regulation as follows:

• Humber Bay Park West: 17.5 ha. • Humber Bay Parks East: 11 ha.

TRCA regulated areas along the banks of the Mimico Creek

32 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Construction Within TRCA Projects must demonstrate that they Regulated Areas will not: Construction that is within TRCA regulated areas requires a permit. • Have negative impacts on the This requirement may include some control and storage of floodwaters; projects and work associated with the • Cause erosion; implementation of the components • Negatively impact revetment and of the Master Plan. Projects must rocky shoreline; incorporate sustainable development practices to achieve social and • Cause pollution; community benefits in conjunction • Negatively affect the conservation with environmental benefits and of lands. should result in an ecological net gain in the long run.

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 33 2.8 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES

The naturalized landscapes and flora found in Humber Bay Park are the result of human intervention , natural succession and a passive management approach.

Flora The following descriptions are Invasive Species Forest & Successional Vegetation summarized from The Humber Bay Given the intensely urban character of Communities: Park Terrestrial Biological Inventory the park, strict adherence to locally- • These vegetation communities and Assessment (TRCA 2014). native species is not as important cover approximately 15 ha. of the as it would be in restoring a derelict park. All vegetation communities in natural habitat such as those located • A blend of woody plants with Humber Bay Park are anthropogenic on Toronto Island Park. in origin and disturbed in character; fragmentary to partial canopy the oldest would date from no earlier closure is characteristic of these than the late 1970s. communities. • Prominent vegetation types include Native Deciduous Savannah and Restoration Deciduous Plantation. • The oldest, most closed-canopy communities are Ash-Conifer Mixed Plantation and Austrian Pine Coniferous Plantation. • The planted material found in these communities is relatively Humber young and vulnerable to Bay competition from other more aggressive exotic species currently

M establishing at the site. im i co • The lower and ground layers are C re generally dominated by exotic ek species such as garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), hedge parsley (Torilis japonica) and shrub honeysuckles (Lonicera spp).

Lake Ontario Legend

Forest / Treed Woodland

Successional

Wetland

Aquatic

Dynamic

Meadow Existing vegetation communities in Humber Bay Park

34 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Meadow Vegetation Communities Dynamic Vegetation Communities Aquatic Vegetation Communities Small parts of the site still have few Dynamic communities at natural A small amount of the lagoon trees and shrubs so as to be classified sites generally are the result of area has enough vegetation to be as meadow. energetic processes (fire, wave and considered a Pondweed Submerged wind erosion) which maintain the Shallow Aquatic Community (SAS1- • The community of the greatest community in an open or semi-open 1) (rank L4). There is also a land- conservation interest in the vicinity condition. locked and artificially-fed pond and of Humber Bay Park is the prairie channel system on the east peninsula / meadow planting associated At Humber Bay Park however, the of Humber Bay Park that is a Water with the Humber Bay Butterfly processes are artificial (grading and Milfoil Submerged Shallow Aquatic Habitat project, which dates from filling), resulting in largely stabilized Community (SAS1-4) (rank L4). The 1998-2000. This area is not within shoreline communities on armour aquatic macrophyte growth here the scope of the Master Plan stone rock or cobble, along with a is dense; unfortunately most of it is and is currently managed by the couple of prairie / meadow plantings the invasive Eurasian Watermilfoil City’s Urban Forestry department and gravelly mud-flats sometimes (Myriophyllum spicatum). This in collaboration with a public visible along the estuary of Mimico community is more contained and stewardship group. Creek (these treated as Open isolated from lake influences than the Riparian Sand / Gravel Bar). lagoons.

Wetlands: (Reference: Toronto and Region Wetlands occupy 2.7 ha (9% of the Conservation Authority (TRCA). 2014. site) and are evenly split between Humber Bay Park Terrestrial Biological Willow Mineral Thicket Swamp Inventory and Assessment) (SWT2-2) forming a fringe around many of the lagoon areas; and marshes, largely Hybrid Cattail Mineral Shallow Marsh (MAS2-1b) and Common Reed Mineral Shallow Marsh (MAS2-a).

Pasture Rose (Rosa carolina) Everlasting Pea (Lathyrus latifolius) Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis)

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 35 2.9 WILDLIFE

All of Humber Bay Park is a constructed landscape so the species of fauna that survive and thrive there have adapted to the urban context and foundation of the park.

Fauna Humber Bay Park currently provides Sensitive Habitat and Breeding Of those described in the report, habitat for a diversity of wildlife Fauna Species these species inhabit offshore species including permanent The majority of the possible breeding breeding areas or habitats outside and seasonal residents, as well as fauna species documented in of the park (e.g. Red-necked Grebe migrating species. The fauna in Humber Bay Park are considered nests on floating platforms and Humber Bay Park includes a diversity urban tolerant species. Hooded Merganser nests in tree of birds, frogs, mammals and reptiles. cavities) or may not have been The Humber Bay Park Terrestrial The Humber Bay Park Terrestrial breeding in the park (e.g. Savannah Biological Inventory and Assessment Biological Inventory and Assessment Sparrow). (TRCA 2014) notes that the park lists species that are considered provides possible breeding habitat sensitive to development and The ‘area sensitive’ species for 37 bird species, six mammals and therefore ‘area sensitive’. documented in the report rely on one frog species. habitat that is largely located outside of Humber Bay Park (e.g. White-tailed Deer and Mink).

However, it is important to recognize the habitat needs of these species as well as their vulnerability to recreational activities and changes in Humber land use. Bay

M im i co C re ek

Lake Ontario

Legend

Migratory Bird Habitat

High sensitivity to development and extensive public use (hiking, dog-walking, biking, etc).

Medium sensitivity to developments and extensive public use (hiking, dog-walking, biking, etc). Existing habitat sensitivity in Humber Bay Park

36 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Migrant/Overwintering Birds Humber Bay Park is one of the best Species of Regional Conservation The location of Humber Bay Park on locations on the Toronto waterfront Concern the Lake Ontario shoreline attracts to observe overwintering waterfowl, There was a total of 8 species of dozens of migrating birds, including from November through March. As regional and urban concern (L1 – L3) wintering waterfowl and migrating many as 20,000 ducks, geese and reports within the study area during passerines that move through swans congregate within viewing past decade. Note that one of these the park in the spring and fall as distance of the shoreline. species, the barn swallow, is listed as they move between their summer Threatened at both the Provincial and breeding grounds and overwintering Opportunities for viewing these Federal levels, affording this species habitat. species currently exist along the special protection. shoreline overlooking Lake Ontario, Due to the location and high diversity within the embayment in Humber Bay At the Humber Bay Park study area, of birds migrating through and Park East and the mouth of Mimico barn swallows were recorded nesting inhabiting Humber Bay Park, the park Creek. on buildings and bridges at three has become a popular destination for locations throughout the area; the many bird watchers. species also nests regularly at the neighbouring Mimico Waterfront The online checklist program, eBird Park, resulting in fairly large (Cornell Lab of Ornithology and congregations of foraging swallows National Audubon Society) provides a once the young have fledged in mid rich data source for basic information to late summer. on bird abundance and distribution, including time of year of the (Reference: Toronto and Region observation. Conservation Authority (TRCA). 2014. Humber Bay Park Terrestrial Biological Approximately 220 bird species have Inventory and Assessment) been recorded in Humber Bay Park East and West, most of which are considered migrants or overwintering species.

Nesting Red-necked Grebe in Toronto Snapping turtle in Humber Bay Park East Great Blue Heron in Mimico Creek Water stormwater management facility embayment BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 37 2.10 BUILDINGS

The buildings in Humber Bay Park are obsolete and do not fulfill the existing and future programmatic requirements of the park.

Public Buildings There are currently City-owned Due to the dynamic nature of the The parks maintenance building buildings in each of the east and west lakefill and park construction, which is approximately 280m2 in area. It halves of the park. These buildings can settle unpredictably over time, houses the electrical room, staff are required by staff for the operation the park buildings were constructed washrooms, showers, meeting space and maintenance of the park and will on heavy reinforced floating concrete and storage for City use, as well continue to be required as the park slabs which allow buildings to settle as space allocated for use by the evolves over time. as one unit. seasonal farmers market.

The public buildings in Humber Bay Humber Bay Park West Buildings Humber Bay Park East Buildings Park share a common style, with split There are two separate public The public building in Humber Bay gabled roofs and clerestory windows. buildings in Humber Bay Park West, Park East was constructed in 1974. They are constructed of concrete and located west of the main parking lot. It is located south of the parking lot wood with a white stucco finish. and roundabout and has a direct The public washroom building is relationship to the ponds and approximately 80m2 in area. The boardwalks. This 245 m2 building washrooms are seasonal and the is divided into two sections that are buildings are closed at dusk in the connected by a breezeway beneath a summer months. shared roof structure.

The smaller section of this building Humber is approximately 90m2 and houses Bay public washrooms. The washrooms are seasonal and are closed at dusk in

M the summer months. im i co C A The larger portion of the building is re ek approximately 155m2 and houses the electrical room and general storage space. The Metro Marine Modellers also occupy space in the east building storage rooms. B

D C Lake Ontario Legend D Existing Public Buildings A. Humber Bay Park East Washroom and Parks Storage Building D B. Humber Bay Park East D Washroom and Parks Storage Building

Existing Private Buildings C. Police Marine Unit D. Private Boat Club Buildings Existing buildings in Humber Bay Park

38 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Privately Owned Buildings Parks & Forestry Service Yards: The Toronto Police Marine Unit Maintenance yards associated with building is located in Humber Bay the buildings are located in each Park West, on the embayment south half of the park. Together, both yards of the main parking lot and boat service approximately one half of the launch. It is accessible from the main parks within Ward 3. park road and from the water by a fenced boat ramp and dock. The • The Humber Bay Park West building is finished with wood siding maintenance yard is located and a tin roof and does not share the behind the washroom building, same architectural style as other park between parking lot and marina. buildings. • The Humber Bay Park East Each boat club has its own clubhouse maintenance yard is located east and outbuildings that are not publicly of the building, north of the ponds accessible. and includes the existing buildings for storage. There are no privately owned buildings in Humber Bay Park East.

Existing washroom building and storage shed in Humber Bay Park West

Existing washroom and service building in Humber Bay Park East

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 39 2.11 PROGRAMMING

Humber Bay Park offers a broad range of passive nature-based summer activities, but offers limited year-round seasonal activities.

Programmed Activities Passive Recreation Farmers Market: The Air India Memorial: A large number of visitors come to • The Humber Bay Shores Farmers • The memorial was built in 2007 to the park to enjoy a respite from the Market is held in the north parking commemorate the victims of the urban environment. lot of Humber Bay Park West every crash of Air India Flight 182, on Sunday from May to October. It June 23, 1985. • The rocky shorelines offer is organized by the Humber Bay spectacular views of the lake and • The monument features a granite Shores Condominium Association of the City skyline and offer an wall that is inscribed with the (HBSCA) and has been a popular excellent vantage point to observe names of the victims and a fixture since 2013. boats coming to and from the sculptural sundial. nearby marinas. Model Boaters: • A ceremony is held at the • Wildlife observation, bird-watching • The Metro Marine Modellers monument, annually on the in particular, is a common activity Association have been holding anniversary of the crash. in the park. There is a large events in Humber Bay Park for the community of bird-watchers that past 35 years. They are the primary • Limited access, pathway is regularly convene and share users of the large pond in Humber interrupted by steps & often used information about birds or nesting Bay Park East. by cyclists creating conflicts with pedestrians. sites to watch. • For the Marine boat modellers the • The grassy areas in Humber Bay lack of maintenance of the ponds is Educational / School Visits: Park West are often used as picnic a concern due to reduced depths • The park is often used for school spots for families during the of water and excessive algae group visits or summer camp day summer months. growth. The west side of the pond trips. has been purposely kept free of • Humber Bay Park has a • The grassed lawns and more shrubs and trees to avoid blocking diversity of naturalized habitats, secluded rocky shorelines are often the wind required to power boats. nesting and aquatic birds and used for sun bathing. geomorphological characteristics that are rich in educational potential.

Weekly summer farmers market Summer camp visitors Passive enjoyment of the shoreline

40 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Active Recreation Walking / Running / Cycling: Fishing: Organized Sports: • There are several kilometers of • The bridge at the mouth of the • There are no playgrounds or facilities pathways for walking, running and City of Toronto stormwater for organized sports in the park cycling within both areas of the management facility and the east however, a series of open park. embayments are popular for fishing. lawns accommodates a variety of informal sports. • Humber Bay Park is directly • The narrow bridge at the stormwater connected to the Waterfront Trail, management facility is a point of Dogs Off-Leash Area: which allows visitors to travel conflict due to congestion and varied • The Humber Bay Park West dogs off- hundreds of kilometers along the uses. leash area is a 6,400m2, fenced to the Lake Ontario shoreline, as well as • The TRCA has recently completed north and east and defined by the serving as a place to stop and rest the construction of two recreational revetment shoreline edges. for those passing through. nodes that support fishing at the east • The off-leash area was introduced Paddling / Kayaking: embayment in Humber Bay Park East to deter illegal and illicit uses at the • There are two boat ramps in in order to alleviate these conflicts. westernmost tip of the peninsula. Humber Bay Park West. A smaller Swimming: • It contributes to park safety by ramp that is located just west of the • Swimming is prohibited at Humber encouraging year-round use at Mimico creek, adjacent to the main Bay Park. Due to the steep gradient all times of day and adding a parking lot, is unuseable for larger of the underwater shoreline and community of users that have ‘eyes- watercraft due to siltation and the nature of material used in the on-the-park’ in one of the most debris in the shallow water. The construction of the park, it is not secluded areas of Humber Bay Park larger ramp that is located south of possible to make the shoreline West. the parking lot is primarily used for conditions safe for swimmers. In launching motor boats. • The off-leash area has become an addition, due to the constant wave important space for the dog-owning • Due to the lack of facilities for action, new hazards are constantly community and is the only off-leash small non-motorized watercraft, the exposed. space in the Mimico neighbourhood. rocky shoreline is often used as a • Despite these dangers, visitors and launch on calm days. • The vegetation in and around the off- dogs often swim from the rocky leash area show signs of stress and shorelines of the park. Especially in damage from territorial marking and Humber Bay Park West, along the soil compaction. south and west shoreline.

Kayaking on Mimico Creek Informal active recreation in Humber Bay Dogs off-leash area Park West BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 41 2.12 SITE DRAINAGE

The site drainage within Humber Bay Park is defined by surface run-off and direct infiltration into Lake Ontario.

Soils and Geomorphology Humber Bay Park is entirely Layer 1 - Core layer: Layer 3 - Pre-armour layer: constructed of lakefill, which acts as • This material makes up the bulk of • This is the portion of the fill that a porous substrate that allows water the inland fill and contains clean is found at the shorelines of the to percolate down into Lake Ontario, earth, sand silt and shale. Minimal park, often reinforced with stone with very little attenuation within the stone gravel brick and concrete revetment where wave action can soil itself. were originally mixed into this cause extreme erosion. layer, although concrete rubble is Created from excavated materials • This material is very coarse and apparent throughout the site due porous, containing large pieces of and rubble surplus from construction to settling and consolidation. projects, the creation of the Humber concrete with reinforcing. Asphalt Bay Park landmass was constructed • This material can be observed at and brick rubble were interspersed between 1974 and 1984. the south shorelines of the park, into the coarser material and were where wave action has exposed intended to break down over time The lakefill was placed in three the coarse substrates. to create a pebble beach. distinct layers, with soil overburden. Layer 2 - Back-up filter layer: • Small to medium-sized broken concrete, brick rubble and asphalt.

Exposed rocky and porous substrates in Humber Bay Park East

42 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Roads and Parking Lots Although asphalt was used in the Overland flow primarily occurs on • The Humber Bay Park East parking original construction of the landmass a majority of the existing paved is sloped to the north, towards one for Humber Bay Park, it is no longer surfaces and in most instances, water small culvert that extends beneath permitted as lakefill material. Asphalt is drained directly into adjacent an existing berm at the north edge is still visibly present along the rocky landscape swales. of the lot. The culvert drains into shorelines of the park, as wave action the City of Toronto stormwater from the lake exposes the substrates. • The large Humber Bay Park West management facility. Given the parking lots drain to outlets that size of the parking lot, the culvert is Other than along the immediate flow into drainage swales. These undersized and is obstructed with shoreline, sloping topography is very parking lots flood regularly due silt. As a result, the area in front of localized, primarily at the shorelines, to undersized culverts that are the culvert ponds frequently and around parking lots and at the edges obstructed with silt. the parking lot area floods. of the ponds in Humber Bay Park East. As such, percolation is the primary • The smaller parking lots in Humber means of drainage within the park. Bay Park West drain to surface outlets and into swales

Roadside swale in Humber Bay Park West Parking lot drainage in Humber Bay Park Humber Bay Park East parking lot culvert West BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 43 2.13 SITE SERVICES

Much of the servicing in Humber Bay Park is beyond its life expectancy and requires upgrades to meet current demands.

Site Electrical The site is supplied with 600 volt, 3 Humber Bay Park West: Humber Bay Park East: Phase, 3 Wire power directly from 600 • Sewage pumps and exterior • All electrical, telecom and volt overhead distribution lines on lighting operate on 600 volt decommissioned public address Lake Shore Boulevard West. service. system ducts are installed in a common trench. Current electrical servicing provides • Building systems, lighting and power for site lighting, building as equipment operate on 120/208 • Sewage pumps, pond water well as pumping systems. volt service via a transformer in the pumps and exterior lighting electrical room. operate on 600 volt service. • For each half of the park, 600 • Building power is supplemented • Building systems, lighting and volt supply lines are installed in by solar panels. equipment operate on 120/208 concrete encased dual duct banks volt service via a transformer in the • Beyond the building, the ductbank (1 duct used and 1 duct spare) electrical room. from Lake Shore Boulevard West carries five ducts to service the into the electrical room of the boat clubs. The ductbank is • Lights, heater and sump pump in park buildings where the supply is reduced back to two ducts (one the pond water pumping station metered. duct for roadway lighting and operate on 120/208 volt service via one duct for the navigation light) a transformer in station. • A large number of existing light west of the Etobicoke Yacht Club fixtures are no longer functioning driveway. are in need of replacement or repair. As a result, the light • The boat clubs operate on a levels in public spaces are below separate metered service, with acceptable levels. transformers located on boat club properties. • Parking meters throughout the park are individually solar- • For the length of the park, the powered. ducts are located on the west / north side of the road. • The duct bank branches off at the roundabout at the end of the road. One duct leads to the navigational light and one duct leads to the dogs off-leash area.

Solar panels on maintenance building in Water pumping station for ponds in Solar powered parking meters in Humber Humber Bay Park West Humber Bay Park East Bay Park East 44 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Sanitary Humber Bay Park is serviced by Humber Bay Park West: Humber Bay Park East: force mains. Since the site cannot • Parks staff showers and public • A sanitary pumping station is be serviced with gravity sewers, all washrooms are located in Humber located north and adjacent to the sewage must be pumped from the Bay Park West buildings. building and is provided with two site. • Two sanitary pumping stations are Flygt alternating pumps. The sanitary and storm systems located in Humber Bay Park West, • A high water alarm bell is provided provide service to parks buildings one station is located within the in the service area, as well as a and washrooms throughout the park. new women’s washroom building red light at disconnect switches and the other, outside the men’ s for sanitary pumps 1 and 2 in the washroom building. The pumping electrical room. stations are provided with two (2) • The pumping station discharges Flygt alternating pumps. through a 75mm diameter ‘Sclair’ • The pumping station discharges polyethylene pipe forcemain to through a 100mm diameter ‘Sclair’ a municipal sewer on Lake Shore polyethylene pipe forcemain to Boulevard West. a municipal sewer on Lake Shore • The forcemain is installed in Boulevard West. a common trench with the • West of the park buildings, the watermain. sanitary forcemain reduces down • The sanitary sewers were installed to 75mm HDPE pipe. in 1978 and have no history of • The forcemain is installed in breaks or other issues. a common trench with the watermain. • The sanitary sewers were installed in 1980 and have no history of breaks or other issues.

Washroom facilities at Humber Bay Park Washroom facilities are seasonal Sanitary forcemain pump chamber at East Humber Bay Park East BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 45 2.13 SITE SERVICES

Site Servicing is concentrated along the main vehicular routes in each peninsula, with limited utilities reaching the remote areas of the park.

Water Humber Bay Park West: Humber Bay Park East: (Reference: Humber Bay East • Water service is supplied to the site • Water is supplied to the site Waterfront Project Maintenance through a meter chamber at Lake through a meter chamber at Lake Manual and Humber Bay West Shore Boulevard West, west of the Shore Boulevard West and Marine Drawings, 1980) entrance to the park. Parade Drive (Park Lawn). • A 150mm diameter ‘Sclair’ • A 150mm diameter ‘Sclair’ polyethylene watermain services polyethylene watermain terminates park buildings, fire hydrants at at the fire hydrant adjacent to the the boat clubs and private boat buildings, servicing the buildings club buildings. The watermain and the water outlet east of the terminates at the Etobicoke Yacht buildings. Club. • A 50mm diameter water service • From Lake Shore Boulevard off the 150mm main at the south West to the park buildings, the west corner of the parking lot, watermain is located on the west has also been installed for future side of the road. Beyond the park requirements. buildings, the watermain is located • The static watermain pressure in beneath the east edge of the the system is approximately 105 roadway in a common trench with psi. the sanitary forcemain. • All service lines and watermains • The static watermain pressure in us rated at 160 psi, installed with the system is approximately 105 1500mm cover in sand bedding psi. with sand cover, in a common • All service lines and watermains trench with the sanitary forcemain. are rated at 160 psi, installed with • The watermains in Humber Bay 1500mm of cover in sand bedding Park East were installed in 1978 with sand cover and have no history of breaks or • The Humber Bay Park West other issues to date. watermains requires replacement. The watermains were installed in 1980 and have a history of regular breakage and leaks. • The portion of watermain that leads to the park buildings was replaced in January 2018. The coupler between old & new watermain, at the parking lot breaks at approximately 5 year intervals.

Decommissioned water fountain in Operational water fountain and hose bib Humber Bay Park West in Humber Bay Park East 46 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

F A B C

A Lake Ontario Mimico Creek

D B E C Legend E Existing Electrical Ductbank

G Existing Light Pole

Existing Sanitary Service

Existing Water Service

Site Servicing Equipment A. Pole-mounted Transformer B. Sanitary Pump C. Electrical Room, Seasonal Washrooms D. Water Meter Chamber E. Decommissioned Drinking Fountain F. Water Fountain and Hose Bib G. Privately Owned Transformer (Boat Clubs)

Existing site services in Humber Bay Park

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 47 2.14 LIGHTING

Humber Bay Park has minimal pedestrian lighting and what light is provided does little to support any programming after dusk.

The Park at Night All lighting in Humber Bay Park East Aside from the dogs off-leash area, Humber Bay Park is one of the few and West requires upgrading to there are no areas within Humber parks that are part of the migratory current standards and programming Bay Park that are programmed for bird flyways in the City. within the park that requires night- night-time activities. The park is time lighting must be reviewed for largely uninhabited at night and as Maintaining dark areas is vital to revenue & safety reasons. such, a number of illicit activities often many migratory bird species as well occur, including illegal fires that cause as a number of nocturnal animals. The existing lighting system is damage to park infrastructure. In addition to the benefits to wildlife concentrated around vehicular habitat, the darkened shoreline of the circulation routes and parking areas. The lack of lighting within the park park provides spectacular night-time Pedestrian lighting is limited to the is a safety concern, but the park’s views of the City skyline. dogs off-leash area, boardwalks and darkness also provides a rare areas immediately adjacent to the opportunity for wildlife habitat along ponds in Humber Bay Park East. The a very urbanized shoreline. shorelines and eastern half of the park do not have pedestrian lighting.

Humber Bay

M im i co C re ek

C A

Lake Ontario Legend

Park Roadway & Pathway Lighting

Park Feature Lighting A. Pond Lighting B. Mimico Creek Bridge Lighting B C. Navigational Light Privately Owned High Mast Lighting (Boat Clubs) Existing lighting in Humber Bay Park

48 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Roadway & Pathway Lighting Park Feature Lighting External Lights & Light Spill • The typical light fixtures in Humber • There are 6 spherical lights • Security lighting within the Bay Park are pole-mounted (type surrounding the Humber Bay privately owned boat clubs creates of fixture) globe lights mounted on Park East ponds. Fixtures are light spill into Humber Bay Park concrete poles. ‘Spherepak’ mercury vapor 400W West. Twenty high mast light poles • Roadway lights are spaced approx. & 1000W, mounted on metal support 400W high-pressure 70m apart in Humber Bay Park poles. The poles are also used to sodium lamps that are controlled West. support the speakers for the now by a local photocell. decommissioned public address • Roadway lights are spaced approx. • The residential towers in the system. These fixtures were neighbouring community also 45m apart in Humber Bay Park installed in 1974 and are no longer East. contribute additional light in operational. Humber Bay Park East and West. • Additional lights are located • The Mimico Creek Bridge is Lights from the surrounding streets around the parking lots and illuminated by lights that are and high-rises can be seen in the around the westernmost pond and located in the abutment walls on main east and west parking lots. along pathways in Humber Bay both sides of the creek. Each side These light sources are obscured Park East. is powered from the electrical at the south shoreline and eastern • There is one light fixture in the rooms in park buildings on each limits of the park. dogs off-leash area that is not side of the park. operational due to continued • A navigational light is located at vandalism. the southernmost peninsula of Humber Bay Park West.

Roadway lighting in Humber Bay Park Non-functioning & outdated lighting at Navigation light in Humber Bay Park West West Humber Bay Park East Ponds BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 49 2.15 CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES

Getting to the Park Parking Getting around the Park

Issues & Challenges Issues & Challenges Issues & Challenges • Existing conflicts between • Existing parking is either • Existing pedestrian and cyclist users and various modes of underutilized or inadequate given conflicts due to poor layout and transportation at entry points; its location and levels of park use; visibility; • Poor visibility/ sense of identity of • Undesirable activities occur in • Poor surface conditions, localized the park at key entrance ways and remote parking lots; ponding and narrow width of trails, interfaces; • Potential oversupply of parking; boardwalks and Mimico Creek bridge; • Few amenities for users coming to • Flooding and poor drainage issues the park by transit or other modes in parking lots; • Limited accessible routes and of transportation; wayfinding throughout the park; • Limited parking that meet AODA • Limited physical and visual criteria for accessibility and • Existing boardwalks and decks connections between Humber Bay limited connections to accessible are deteriorating, pose a health Park East and West. amenities within the park; and safety risk and are in need of replacement. Opportunities: • Limited or no bike parking. • Improve the frontage of the park Opportunities: along Lake Shore Boulevard West Opportunities: • Improve connections between the and Marine Parade Drive; • Review the required quantity and east and west halves of the park; strategic distribution of parking, • Improve identity and visibility at including accessible parking within • Re-evaluate and improve existing park entrances; the park; physical access and circulation • Clearly define vehicular cyclist and patterns while safeguarding • Increase number of bike parking existing sensitive habitat; pedestrian circulation; spaces; • Establish a hierarchy of pathways • Improve access to the park • Decrease heat island effect by for users of public transit and connections that meet AODA reducing the surface area of criteria for accessible routes; and alternative modes of asphalt pavement where possible transportation; and eliminate large continuous • Improve trail connectivity to wider • Improve connectivity between expanses of paving; transportation network; Humber Bay Park East and West to • Improve parking layout for • Improve routes, walking and reduce congestion at the Mimico efficiency and safety; cycling experiences through the Creek bridge and create a circuit park; within the park • Improve accessibility in parking lots for emergency and Wheel- • Improve visual connectivity and • Improve signage and wayfinding Trans vehicles; approaches within the park; in alignment with the Parks • Optimize public safety by reducing Wayfinding strategy. • Consider the spatial needs of scheduled programs such as the conflicts between vehicles, cyclists farmers market, by providing safe and pedestrians; and separate space for vendors • Upgrade deteriorated pathways from vehicular and cyclist traffic; and boardwalks; • Integrate parking lot layout • Regrade localized areas to reduce with park character and access drainage and ponding issues. to facilities in consideration of better approaches to stormwater management and planting initiatives.

50 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Signage & Wayfinding Water Bodies & Inland Natural Environment Water Features

Issues & Challenges Issues & Challenges Issues & Challenges • Lack of identity at park entrances; • Poor circulation and shallow • Conflicts between watercraft and • Lack of informational and depths of water promote algae birds in Humber Bay Park East educational signage; growth, impacting establishment of embayments; unique habitat ; • Lack of wayfinding signs; • Conflicts between park users and • Poor water quality and algae birds; • Lack of regulatory signage at growth impedes recreational points of conflict; • Conflicts between recreational activities such as model boats; fishing and other park users; • Lack of signage that meet AODA • Currently there is poor accessibility criteria for accessibility. • Vegetation and habitat are being and/or visibility to the shoreline damaged by dogs in and around Opportunities: and water’s edge. the dogs off-leash area; • Improve signage on cycling trails Opportunities: • Invasive plants becoming more in coordination with layout and • Improve circulation and water abundant within the park; grading to improve visibility and quality within the ponds and minimize conflicts; channel; • Poor water circulation and overabundance of algae in ponds; • Introduce educational and • Establish and improve habitat interpretive signage within the within ponds; • Limited park maintenance and park; deterioration of park boardwalks • Enhanced overall habitat diversity and decks; • Introduce signs to identify other trails and features within the park • Increase the area of terrestrial and • Proliferation of illegal campfires. riparian habitat; including directional and distance Opportunities: markers within the park; • Improve the general appearance • Identify and protect sensitive • Improve signage and identity at of the ponds; habitat and enhance existing park entrances. • Provide enhanced multi-season habitat quantity and diversity; programming opportunities in and • Naturalize the ponds and create around the ponds and channel; new aquatic and terrestrial habitat; • Address long-term sustainability • Control access to embayments by objectives; motorized watercraft; • Improve views and lookouts at the • Restrict pedestrian access to bird water’s edge; habitat during nesting season; • Provide a range of experience • Increase diversity and abundance along the water’s edge in a of native species; sustainable manner, minimizing impacts to natural features & • Foster opportunities for education hazards; and stewardship; • Improve safety signage and • Create pollinator gardens; develop guidelines for access to • Reduce amount of open lawn; the water’s edge. • Introduce interpretive signage; • Enhance the shoreline.

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 51 2.15 CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES

Buildings Programming Site Drainage

Issues & Challenges Issues & Challenges Issues & Challenges • Public buildings do not provide • Site design and general layout does • Localized ponding and flooding adequate hours of operation and not support or respond to current in parking lots and pathways due levels of service and are in general programming needs and potential to undersized outfalls, siltation, need of repair; future needs; minimal grade. • Maintenance yards associated • Undesirable and illicit activities Opportunities: with existing park buildings are (illegal camp fires) in naturalized • Consider reconfiguring parking located in prominent spaces in areas and on shorelines, are a cause areas to introduce bioswales/ the park. Facilities are needed but safety concern for local residents. permeable pavements & sub- undersized; Opportunities: surface drainage; • Lack of shelters from sun, wind and • Promote a range of passive • Review and revise site grading to cold throughout park. recreational activities and provide reduce and minimize ponding on Opportunities: appropriate flexible spaces and pathways and paved surfaces. • Program new building to meet surfaces; the needs expressed through • Consideration should be given to consultation process; facilitate informal skating and winter • The size of any new building programming activities in Humber should be sufficient to support the Bay Park East with consideration proposed program; for access to the activity from a supporting building; • The siting of any new building should give consideration to • Provide support for outdoor meeting ecological, regulatory, nature programming and related cost and infrastructure criteria as infrastructure (e.g., outdoor established by the TRCA and the classroom, amphitheatre); City; • Consider improvements to dogs • Suggest built form should be off-leash area (i.e., condition and integrated with the landscape connectivity of paths, signage, character of the park; shelter structure, lighting, bulletin board); • Parks Forestry and Recreation should review hours of operation • Consider improvements to the site and consider providing year-round of the farmer’s market suggested washroom facilities; (e.g., improved permeable paving with tree plantings, picnic benches, • Upgrade washroom facilities to shelter, better connection to green current accessibility standards; spaces); • There is the potential to consolidate • Support for elements including maintenance yards into one sheltered picnic areas, lookout centralized location in Humber Bay points, improved seating, accessible Park West. The layout should be washrooms, play area in Humber coordinated with recommended Bay Park West, etc.; Master Plan improvements for the Humber Bay Park west peninsula; • Improve access for kayakers & canoeists along park shorelines in • There is the potential to introduce safe accessible locations; small open-air structures and shelters for protections from • Explore opportunity for the outdoor elements, outdoor accommodating rental or storage education, or wildlife observation. facilities.

52 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Site Services Lighting

Issues & Challenges Issues & Challenges • Existing civil infrastructure is failing • Several existing light fixtures within due to age (i.e. water main along park are no longer functioning and Western Peninsula driveway), will require replacement; resulting in requirements for • Light levels are insufficient in ongoing maintenance and repair. several areas (dogs off-leash area, Opportunities: boardwalks at ponds), posing a • Consider potential to replace health and safety concern and the failing infrastructure in conjunction potential for vandalism. with proposed Master Plan road Opportunities: and architectural improvements. • Develop lighting strategy to meet City of Toronto Green Development Standards and Bird- friendly guidelines; • Provide lighting for primary pathways to improve safety and extend access and use; • Improve the experience of the park at night by maintaining dark spaces in specific areas that would allow viewing of the City skyline and reduction in light pollution; • Improve lighting at parking lots and consider improvements at the dogs off-leash area in Humber Bay Park West; • Provide vandal-proof fixtures in remote locations; • Improve lighting at all entrances to the park.

BACKGROUND ANALYSIS 53 Waterfall weir at Humber Bay Park East Ponds

54 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN VISION & OBJECTIVES 3

55 3.1 MASTER PLAN VISION

Humber Bay Park is defined by two separate and distinct peninsula landforms - east and west. Each one is different in character, function and form.

Vision The Master Plan: The Master Plan for Humber Bay • Establishes a framework to protect • Promotes the enhancement of Park aims to reinforce the distinct and enhance the naturalized the overall experience of the site, characters of the east and west landscape, while identifying spaces creating new relationships and peninsulas while creating linked and for public amenities, programming establish views within and outward integrated waterfront open spaces and recreational uses; from the park; that complement and complete one • Builds on the strengths of the site • Recommends proposed another. and its unique character, with an improvements that respond to understanding of what works and existing and future needs of the what does not work; community and City residents;

View of Lake Ontario from Humber Bay Park East

56 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN • Promotes improvements to safety and accessibility to and within the park; • Provides a framework for operations, maintenance and stewardship of the park; • Establishes a plan that will evolve and respond to the needs of the community for generations.

VISION & OBJECTIVES 57 3.2 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

The guiding principles define the key directives to implement the short and long term vision for Humber Bay Park.

Natural & Restful Ecology & Habitat A City Park Humber Bay Park is a place of natural Humber Bay Park is a valuable habitat Humber Bay Park is both a local beauty and respite from the busy for plants and animals. The Master park for nearby residents and part city. The Master Plan should enhance Plan will provide a framework that will of a network of green spaces along this quality and experience while enhance the ecological value of the Toronto’s waterfront. The Master Plan accommodating the growing number park while improving opportunities should accommodate a diversity of of park users in the area. for interpretation and appreciation of park users and needs. the park’s natural heritage.

View of the evolving Mimico neighbourhood skyline across the east embayment

58 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Innovate & Evolve Plan for the Future The potential of Humber Bay Park The Master Plan must be flexible and to meet the needs of its users is able to evolve and respond to the not fully realized. The Master Plan changing needs of the growing local will identify new opportunities and population and future generations. propose innovative ways to provide recreational opportunities while enhancing and protecting the natural environment of the park.

VISION & OBJECTIVES 59 3.3 MASTER PLAN OBJECTIVES

Parking and Vehicular Pathways and Trails Bridges and Circulation Boardwalks

Establish a rationalized parking and Establish a hierarchy of pathways Improve connections within the park vehicular circulation plan for the and trails through the park that are and access to water features within park that meets existing and planned accessible, safe and understandable the park through rehabilitated and parking requirements, boat launch to park users. new bridges and boardwalks that queuing and circulation needs, while are both accessible and safe. reducing the extent of paved surfaces • Re-evaluate existing physical to the extent possible. access and circulation patterns; • Improve maintenance access over • Safeguard existing sensitive the bridges and weirs surrounding • Promote circulation and parking habitat; the ponds in Humber Bay Park efficiencies (remove excess if East; possible); • Establish a hierarchy of pathways and connections that meet AODA • Improve physical connections • Promote green parking area criteria for accessible routes; between the east and west halves design options to protect & restore of the park; natural environment; • Provide direct connections from main circulation routes to/from the • Improve viewing opportunities at • Ensure adequate parking/queuing park to link with adjacent park and bridges through the integration of space for a various modes of trail systems; new lookouts and viewing areas transportation; into bridge approaches. • Improve routes and walking and • Ensure improved safety at trail and cycling experiences through • Improve opportunities for wildlife vehicular intersections; Humber Bay Park. observation and interpretation surrounding Mimico Creek and the • Ensure improved safety and • Improve physical and visual accessibility at parking areas naturalized channel in Humber Bay connectivity within the park and Park east; and to/from park features and between the east and west halves amenities. of the park; • Improve durability and reduce maintenance requirements for • Optimize public safety by bridges and boardwalks by using minimizing potential conflicts materials that are resistant to rot between vehicles, cyclists and and decay. pedestrians at intersections; trail on trail and trail on roadway; • Provide a range of experience along the water’s edge, including Mimico Creek and Lake Ontario shoreline.

Promote green parking design Establish safe, accessible pathways and Establish safe, accessible pathways and trails trails 60 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Ponds and Waterway Natural Environment Architectural Improvements

Create a functional design for the Explore opportunities to expand and Recommend locations for artificialponds and waterway in enhance habitat for native flora and architectural improvements Humber Bay Park East that improves fauna. within Humber Bay Park East and their ecological and recreational West, including consideration for function while reducing the resources • Enhance existing habitat size and integration of the buildings and required for maintenance and diversity; structures within the landscape and operation. • Protect sensitive habitat; consolidation of uses within existing buildings, where possible. • Improve water quality within the • Create new aquatic and terrestrial ponds and waterway; habitat; • Program architectural • Improve habitat within ponds; • Create opportunities for improvements to meet the needs interpretation, passive learning and expressed through the public • Provide enhanced multi-season education programs; consultation process; programming opportunities in and around the ponds and waterway; • Control access to embayments by • The size of architectural elements motorized watercraft. should be sufficient to support the • Develop educational opportunities proposed program; along boardwalks and lookouts; • Site proposed buildings to meet • Improve access to water’s edge at ecological, regulatory, cost and ponds and water channel. infrastructure criteria as required • Address long-term sustainability by the TRCA and the City; objectives. • Built form should be integrated and complimentary to the landscape character of Humber Bay Park.

Improve recreational function at ponds Enhance existing habitat and diversity Explore opportunities for architectural improvements VISION & OBJECTIVES 61 3.3 MASTER PLAN OBJECTIVES

Park Programs and Wayfinding and Site Drainage Features Signage

Provide a plan for the enhancement Implement the City’s unified Provide a sustainable approach to of park programs and features wayfinding and signage system for site drainage and promote options (e.g. benches, lookouts, waterfront parks and trails to provide consistent that will benefit the ecology of access) that increases recreational identification, orientation and Humber Bay Park East and West. opportunities within the park while navigation through the park. protecting sensitive habitats. • Eliminate areas of poor drainage • Implement the City’s Parks and and ponding on paved surfaces; • Upgrade and update existing Trails Wayfinding Strategy; • Improve drainage in areas where amenities; • Provide trailhead signage and surface runoff creates excessive • Provide additional amenities to trail markers at key pathway erosion; address park user needs; intersections within the park; • Increase the extent of biofiltration • Rationalize and improve • Provide clear signage to designate swales and reduce the size of inter-relationships between connections between Humber Bay under-utilized lawn areas; programmed spaces; Park East and West; • Improve the quality of runoff • Emphasize and encourage passive • Establish a wayfinding and signage discharged into Lake Ontario and recreation in Humber Bay Park East strategy that meets AODA criteria. Mimico Creek from the park. and active recreation in Humber Bay Park West.

Emphasize and encourage passive Improve inter-relationships between Introduce stormwater management that recreation in Humber Bay Park East programmed spaces will benefit the ecologies of the park 62 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Site Servicing Lighting

Improve site servicing to support Create a lighting strategy for the existing uses and new amenities park that will address public safety within the Park. objectives while achieving the highest standards of habitat protection, • Identify requirements for upgrades reduction of light pollution and and for new enhanced services; energy efficiency. • Improve electrical supply and infrastructure; • Meet the City of Toronto Green Development Standards and Bird- • Provide new water connections at Friendly design guidelines; amenity spaces. • Create a lighting strategy that contributes to the experience of Humber Bay Park and the waterfront at night.

Provide new and enhanced services Provide safe energy efficient lighting

VISION & OBJECTIVES 63 View to Mimico Creek at Humber Bay Park West

64 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN THE MASTER PLAN 4

65 4.1 THE ILLUSTRATIVE MASTER PLAN

The Illustrative Master Plan is a graphic representation of the vision for Humber Bay Park.

The Demonstration Plan This plan illustrates a long term 6. Flexible Market Square / vision for Humber Bay Park and Overflow Parking identifies specific projects that could 7. Market Green be implemented incrementally and independently from each other, or 8. Reconfigured Roadway sequentially, depending on future 9. Reconfigured Parking Lots needs and funding. 10. Non-motorized Craft Boat Launch The representation of projects on the (Canoe / Kayak) demonstration plan is not prescriptive 11. Small Watercraft Layby and implementation of the projects illustrated is subject to a detailed 12. Existing Boat Launch design process and review by the 13. Dogs Off-Leash Area TRCA and the City and subject to 14. Protected Habitat Area identification of collective priorities, funding sources and regulatory and 15. East Arrival Court budget approvals. 16. Pollinator Meadow The major organizing principles 17. Recreational Pond for the park improvement strategy 18. Linear Wetland are described in Section 5.0 - The Integrated Park. These include: 19. Open Water Habitat Pond connecting and enriching the 20. Rehabilitated Water Channel shoreline experience, unifying the two 21. Air India Memorial halves of the park and establishing distinctive character areas within the 22. Picnic Spaces park. Detailed recommendations for 23. Rehabilitated Park Bridge improvements to each park feature are described in Section 6.0 - Park 24. Wetland Boardwalk Components. 25. Water’s Edge Boardwalk

The proposed improvements, 26. Mimico Creek Lookout amenities and programs depicted 27. Lake Ontario Lookout on the illustrative plan and described 28. Inland Ponds Lookout in the following chapters are not presented in any particular order of 29. Rehabilitated Outdoor importance or priority. Amphitheater 30. Recreational Node Illustrated Improvements 1. Improved Entrance Landscapes 31. Open-Air Shelter 2. Improved Waterfront Trail 32. Children’s Play Area Connections 33. Public Art Location 3. Improved Mimico Creek Crossing 34. Existing city of Toronto at Lake Shore Blvd. West Stormwater Management Facility 27 4. Widened / Expanded Mimico 35. Humber Bay Park East Building Creek Bridge 36. Humber Bay Park West Building 5. New Pedestrian Bridge and Consolidated Parks Maintenance Yard

66 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN 27 30

16

2 30 20

23 16 27 14 29 21 16 34

9 15 28 19 27 2 1 16 23 33 26 16 9 18 8 21 3 26 35 26 14 4 17 24 1 14

10 23 26 22 33 2 7 33 11 6

31 26 9 5 14 36 31 27 2 32 33

12 31 22 25 27

27

27

14

33 9 8

9

22 8 27

9

13

31 22 27 33 MASTER PLAN 67 View of the existing naturalized water channel in Humber Bay Park East

68 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN THE INTEGRATED PARK 5

69 5.1 AN ENRICHED SHORELINE EXPERIENCE

The connection to and understanding of the park’s dynamic shoreline will be guided by purposeful and well designed interventions at the water’s edge.

Getting to the Water One of the most compelling aspects The Humber Bay Park shoreline is of Humber Bay Park is its position regulated, monitored and managed and relationship to Lake Ontario and by TRCA in partnership with the City Mimico Creek. The very premise of and approved budgets and priorities. the park was to construct a new space on Lake Ontario for recreational use. The Master Plan recognizes the shoreline as an untapped resource, Apart from the adjacent private boat a feature to be celebrated and clubs, the park does not take full integrated into the park. advantage of the changing character of the shoreline, its relationship to the water, nor the potential for dramatic views to the City, to the mainland, Mimico Creek or Lake Ontario.

Shorelines key plan

Shoreline of Humber Bay Park East

70 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN A Journey of ‘Moments’ The Master Plan proposes the The design for each lookout will be creation of a comprehensive specific for the intended use and series of lookouts and observation specific shoreline condition where decks throughout the park that will it is proposed and will vary from encourage a variety of levels of visual passive observation decks, interactive and physical perspectives within the platforms for habitat observation park. and outlooks for fishing. Through the management of vegetation, These will be vary between inward manipulation of topography and views and outward views, toward through the introduction of robust/ the water and downtown skyline. durable materials, a series of The balance between framed and unique moments and views will be unframed views and vistas will create established along the water’s edge. an array of ‘moments’ and viewing experiences. See Section 6.7 - Shoreline Improvements

BIG MOVES 71 5.2 HUMBER BAY PARK CHARACTER AREAS

The Master Plan strengthens the character of the park: enhances what’s good and provides recommendations for improvements.

Distinctive Character Areas

Humber Bay Park is a quiet nature West Entrance Market Western Peninsula refuge, a local community destination The main entrance into the west The Western Peninsula is defined and a regional waterfront public peninsula of the park has the by the service road which currently amenity. Portions of the site are potential to define and establish the organizes this area of the park, organized by a series of utilitarian park’s character and identity. providing access to the boat clubs functions and infrastructure which is along the north side, the parking not integrated or considered in the This area comprises half of the central for the dogs off-leash dog area and overall framework of the park. core of the park and is made up of informal lawns. mostly parking (which is home to The Master Plan is organized around the re-occuring farmers market), a The Western Peninsula offers five character areas, each distinct park pavilion, two boat launches some of the most dramatic views, but integrated by components that and road that provides access to the opportunities for enhanced picnic are common throughout the park. private boat clubs. It is also contains areas and passive recreation and By identifying and strengthening the the largest area of urban lawn within areas of coastline and landforms that character and salient features of each the park as well as a portion of the could be considered for establishing character area, the identity of the main east-west cycling route and new habitat. park as a whole will be more clearly Waterfront Trail. defined. This area is described in further detail This area is described in further detail in Section 5.5 - Western Peninsula. The Park Core in Section 5.4 - West entrance One of the central goals of the Master Market. Plan, is to physically and visually reconnect and integrate the east and west halves of the park. Straddling Mimico Creek, the Park Core will provide improved arrival spaces, new and improved bridge connections, shared amenities and complimentary programming as described in Section 5.3 - A Unified Park Core.

An unified Park Core The West Entrance Market The Western Peninsula

72 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN East Entrance Meadow Ponds & Linear Wetland Eastern Naturalized Peninsula The existing ponds and water channel With stunning views of the downtown The Eastern park entrance and are one of the key defining features Toronto skyline, a wide naturalized landscape form the remaining part of Humber Bay Park. Providing habitat shoreline and adjacent open of the central core of the park. The as well as recreational uses, the ponds meadow, the Eastern Naturalized proposed East Entrance Meadow will continue to play an important role area of Humber Bay Park is truly a is also the future site of a new within the park remarkable space that needs to be park building being considered protected, enhanced and enjoyed. and designed to integrate and The Master Plan proposes improving complement the guiding principles of the layout and configuration of the The Master Plan will include the Master Plan. ponds and maintaining the existing strategically placed lookouts and naturalized water channel, to ensure observation decks usable for fishing The Master Plan proposes to reduce they function and are enjoyed for activities and maintaining existing parking and paved surface, maximize generations to come. trails and controlled pedestrian the new meadow area to enhance the access through the area and to the naturalized character of this are of the This area is described in further detail shorelines to ensure the protection park and will provide a strong sense in Section 5.7 - Ponds & Linear and establishment of important of place and celebrate the openness Wetland. habitat areas. and existing natural character. This will also serve as an example of This area is described in further detail sustainable development and green in Section 5.8 - Eastern Naturalized design. Peninsula.

This area is described in further detail in Section 5.6 - East Entrance Meadow.

The East Entrance Meadow The Ponds & Linear Wetland The Eastern Naturalized Peninsula

BIG MOVES 73 5.3 A UNIFIED PARK CORE

The two halves of the park will be integrated through improved physical connections, shared amenities and complementary programming.

Core Connections Recommendations The core of Humber Bay Park will Visual Connections 1. Widen or twin the Mimico Creek act as the main place of arrival into Views to and across Mimico Creek Bridge to provide a generous the park. It is defined by the West are currently limited. By providing primary connection across the Entrance Market and East Entrance increased porosity at the shoreline creek, reducing cyclist and Meadow areas. and creating spaces for viewing the pedestrian conflicts; Creek from the bridges, visitors will 2. Install a new pedestrian bridge In order to create an integrated begin to experience the park as a Park Core, it is vital to establish new at the mouth of Mimico Creek whole, rather than two separate and to alleviate congestion on the physical and perceived relationships disconnected spaces. between the two halves. Rather than northern bridge and establish new access route to western parking being a dividing element, Mimico Implied Connections Through area; Creek’s role will change to become a Complimentary Programming central feature in the park. By purposefully linking the two 3. Improve the existing east-west halves of the park, it will be possible pedestrian connections along Physical Connections to encourage the shared use of Lake Shore Boulevard West; Through the creation of a hierarchy amenities and to strengthen the most 4. Implement a wayfinding strategy of pathways and new bridge successful characteristics of each to communicate key features and connections between Humber Bay side of the park. The west park is a programming within the park. Park East and West, a new connection more active park, accommodating a Due to the general and dispersed will allow improved access number of intensive activities such nature of the wayfinding strategy, throughout the park, focusing the as the farmers market, family picnics, this item is not graphically higher intensity activities within the dogs off-leash area, boat clubs and depicted on illustrated plan; core of the park and leaving the rest other activities that are often reliant 5. Create a continuous and of the peninsulas available for more on vehicular access. The east park is accessible pathway loop between passive recreation and for habitat a quiet, naturalized space that would the east and west sides of the enhancement. benefit from reduced vehicular traffic. park; Enhanced connections in the Park Enhancements to existing structures Core will allow the generous parking 6. Provide new viewpoints and and the construction of a proposed facilities in the west park to support lookouts to Mimico Creek that new crossing are subject to review by the naturalized spaces and future integrate the mouth of the creek the TRCA with regards to impacts to programmed activities in the east and wetland embayments into the flooding and shoreline hazards. park. Park Core; 7. Consider opportunities for fish habitat associated with new bridge abutments; 8. Establish a new small craft boat launch (canoe and kayak) adjacent to new farmers market; 9. Implement a parking strategy that redistributes parking based on patterns of use and programming, while providing access to the entire park within a 5 to 10 minute walk; 10. Provide improvements to lighting and night-time access that are focused around the core pathway A primary loop uniting the Park Core Mimico Creek is the central feature of the circuit. Park Core. 74 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN 3

8 6 3 5 9 6 3 6 1

5 7 5

9 6 8 5 2

Legend

Park Core Boundary

Illustrated plan of the Park Core

BIG MOVES 75 5.4 WEST ENTRANCE MARKET

The flexible Market Square will provide a place for community gathering and serve as a new defining feature for Humber Bay Park.

A New Market Square Recommendations The West Entrance Market is defined Optimized Parking Facilities 1. Improve park visibility, street by a new plaza, planted with a grid The vast expanses of asphalt paving presence, sense of entry and of trees, paved with a permeable will be reduced and by resizing access at Lake Shore Boulevard unit paver system and furnished with parking spaces to current standards, West; ample seating and shade structures. with the potential for overflow 2. Reallocate parking to create The space is intended to be inviting at parking in the Market Square. The Market Square & Market Green; all times of the year and designed to reconfigured parking facilities will accommodate small-scale community accommodate the same number of 3. Resolve conflicts between activities such as the seasonal farmers vehicles, or more. pedestrian & cyclist routes at market. Waterfront Trail and Mimico Creek Conflicts between pedestrians, bridge; The conversion of a portion of the cyclists and vehicles will be resolved 4. Resolve conflicts between parking into a sustainably designed by relocating the vehicular entrance pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles market space will add to the to the parking lots and separating at Humber Bay Park West; functionality of the space, reduce heat pedestrian and cyclist crossings. island effect and provide a strong 5. Relocate the parking area sense of arrival to the park. Additional measures to clarify entrance to eliminate conflicts with circulation and wayfinding are Waterfront Trail; A Versatile Space described further detail in Section 6. Improve views to Lake Ontario; The layout of the space and 6.0 - Park Components. placement of permanent site 7. Improve views to Mimico Creek; elements will be organized to 8. Provide accessible picnic areas; accommodate market stalls and aisles 9. Provide naturalized children’s play for pedestrian movement and flow, area; with the possibility of converting the space to temporary overflow parking 10. Improve accessibility for all users ; during events that draw large crowds, 11. Provide new canoe / kayak launch such as Canada Day fireworks and the ramp with drop-off space; CNE air show. 12. Provide ample uncompacted soil The Market Green volume to aid in the establishment The northernmost parking lot will be of a healthy tree canopy in the redesigned as a gently sloping lawn Market Square. with additional shade trees. The space will serve as a new green gateway, framing the market plaza while also S S S organizing circulation and decreasing the amount of asphalt surface in the park. S S S 3 3

The Market Green will provide a 3 3 large casual seating and picnic area P P P in the summer and can serve as a S S S 3 3 small toboggan hill during the winter months.

S S S P P P

A 3m x 3m tree planting grid can The 3m x 3m grid allows for overflow accommodate market stalls parking spaces and drive aisles

76 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN 7

1 3

11 7 2 4 8 12 11 2 7 10 10

5 3 9 5

8 6

Legend

West Entrance Market Boundary

Illustrated plan of the West Entrance Market

BIG MOVES 77 5.4 WEST ENTRANCE MARKET

The West Entrance Market will be a show piece and precedent for an integrated sustainable design.

The West Entrance Market will provide a year-round community space that will serve as a new defining feature for Humber Bay Park

Reconfigured Planted Drop-off Lane/ Market Square / Overflow Parking & Parking Area Median Accessible Parking Continuous Tree Canopy

Section through the reconfigured western parking, highlighting new social and ecological spaces and the proposed adjustments in grade, planting and materials

78 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Sloping Market Waterfront Green Trail

BIG MOVES 79 5.5 WESTERN PENINSULA

The full potential of the Western Peninsula will be realized through a subtle reorganization of existing site elements.

A Linear Park Recommendations The Western Peninsula is a narrow, Improving the Quality of Park 1. Improve shoreline access; linear park space that borders Lake Space 2. Relocate roadway to maximize Ontario. It is a well used park space Naturalized areas will be protected useable park space; with mown lawns, shade trees, small to allow for an establishment period. areas of naturalized plantings and Pathways, materials, lighting and 3. Reconfigure parking lots to a long rocky shoreline the offers site furnishings will be upgraded in accommodate current patterns of spectacular views of Lake Ontario. the more heavily used areas of the use, maximizing park space and park, such as the landscaped points protecting habitat areas; Maximizing Park Space and the dogs-off-leash area, which is 4. Realign multi-use pathway to The existing roadway is proposed to discussed in further detail in Section provide a more varied landscape be relocated north toward the boat 6.0 - Park Components. experience; club fenceline, leaving a vegetated berm and existing tree lined buffer. Optimized Parking 5. Improve recreational spaces at shorelines and points; This will increase the amount of By reconfiguring the parking to useable park space south of the be perpendicular along the new 6. Improve pathways to roadway, providing opportunities to roadway, the parking can be westernmost point of peninsula realign the multi-use pathway and distributed more evenly along the and dogs off-leash area and creating alternate routes through the peninsula and capacity can be enhance habitat; landscape. increased at the westernmost end, 7. Reconfigure dogs off-leash area where there is additional demand. Parking lots will be relocated from to accommodate current patterns each of the points, opening up new of use along shoreline; park space available for active and 8. Improve access to enhanced passive recreation, as well as for naturalized peninsula; enhancement and protection of the 9. Provide lookouts and landforms natural habitat. for views to Lake Ontario over Improving Shoreline Access revetment stones. The south facing shoreline is the most striking feature of the West Peninsula, drawing visitors in large numbers in the summer months.

Physical access to the water’s edge could be improved with accessible pathways and platforms across the rugged shoreline. Views to the Lake and to the City skyline could be improved by framing views, strategic clearing of vegetation and providing raised landform to allow views over and beyond the revetment stones.

Example of perpendicular parking in Perpendicular parking provides High Park accessible access to park space 80 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN 1 9

8

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2 5 9 4

6 1 9 7 3

7 1

5 Legend 9 Western Peninsula Boundary

Illustrated plan of the West Peninsula

BIG MOVES 81 5.5 WESTERN PENINSULA

The reconfigured Western Peninsula provides an opportunity to balance vehicular and pedestrian access, while improving the park’s amenity space and ecological footprint.

The new park space created by the removal of parking areas on the points of Humber Bay Park West will be regraded to provide recreational spaces, lookouts and habitat area.

Relocated Reconfigured Naturalized Multi-Use Naturalized Road Parking Berm Pathway Area

Section through the central point along the West Peninsula showing the proposed manipulation of grade to provide access to the stunning views of downtown from the park

82 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Enhanced peninsula recreational spaces

BIG MOVES 83 5.6 EAST ENTRANCE MEADOW

The East Entrance Meadow is where the quiet, naturalized, remote and picturesque side of Humber Bay Park reaches out to meet the City.

A New Defining Landscape Recommendations Defined by rolling hills, groups of Rethinking Parking and Vehicular 1. Reconfigure parking lots to shade trees and a lush pollinator Circulation reduce overall surface area and meadow, the east entrance to the As part of the increased connections visual impact of asphalt surfaces; park will introduce visitors to the between the east and west halves of 2. Introduce a new pollinator more the naturalized landscape of the park defined by the Park Core, meadow and landform gateway Humber Bay Park East. visitors will be encouraged to park in landscape; Humber Bay Park West and use the A key feature of the East Entrance new pedestrian connections to reach 3. Create a new entrance court and Meadow will be an arrival court, the east side of the park. wetland lookout at new park adjacent to the new park building, building; described in Section 6.9 - This shared use of parking in the west 4. Provide separate pedestrian & Architectural Improvements. half of the park will allow the amount cyclist routes to Mimico Creek Wayfinding signage and trail heads of parking in the East Entrance bridge; would be placed within arrival court Meadow to be reduced, allowing the with directions to key interpretive creation of a striking entrance to the 5. Improve and make accessible features within the park. park. boardwalk connections to the ponds and linear wetlands from Putting Habitat at the Forefront The reconfigured parking area will parking lots and park entrance; The new pollinator meadow will improve the overall site integration, 6. Reconfigure the west pond significantly increase habitat within and reinforcing the unique character shoreline and integrate pond the park, but will also serve as a of the Humber Bay Park East. the accessible edge with park complement to the existing butterfly circulation; garden in Humber Bay Shores. The roadway into the site will be shortened, reducing the number of 7. Provide a new accessible The reduction of the amount of paved pedestrian crossings required. pathway to new bridge across surface at the entrance to the park Mimico Creek; will reinforce the role of Humber Bay 8. Improve and reinforce accessible Park as a naturalized habitat park connections to the park from with rich interpretive and educational Humber Bay Shores; opportunities. 9. Improve views to Mimico Creek Waterfront Connections and wetland embayments; The East Entrance Meadow will create 10. Improve visibility and access a signature landscape that extends along Lake Shore Boulevard West up to meet Marine Parade Drive and and Marine Parade Drive; helps to define the park entry and 11. Provide accessible picnic areas invite park users into the park and around recreational pond; improve wayfinding. 12. Provide a setting for the new park Pathways within the park will also be building in Humber Bay Park East. simplified, providing clear access to the Waterfront Trail and improved views to internal park features.

The East Entrance Meadow

84 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN 8

8

1 10 10 2 5

2 1 12 3 4 9

9 6 9

7 11 6

9

Legend

East Entrance Meadow Boundary

Illustrated plan of the East Entrance Meadow

BIG MOVES 85 5.6 EAST ENTRANCE MEADOW

By decentralizing and reducing the parking in the East Entrance Meadow, the landscape of Humber Bay Park East will be dramatically transformed.

The parking area for Humber Bay Park East will be reorganized and regraded, creating a large pollinator meadow

Recreational Pond Boardwalk New Humber Bay Existing berm and Reconfigured road & Overlook Park East Building coniferous trees access to parking areas

Building and topography are integrated to create a unique undulating ecology framing views and pathways

86 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Naturalized Meadow Integrated Parking Topography Area

BIG MOVES 87 5.7 PONDS & LINEAR WETLAND

The ponds at the centre of the Humber Bay Park East will be reconfigured to improve overall function, water quality and establish new aquatic and riparian ecologies.

The Heart of the Park Recommendations The revitalized ponds and linear New Aquatic and Riparian Habitat 1. Improve the recreational pond to wetland will serve as a community Changes to the configuration of the allow seasonal programming (e.g. resource for seasonal programming ponds will contribute to enhanced model boating, skating); and education, as well as enhancing overall habitat diversity by increasing 2. Rehabilitate the center pond to the park as a whole by improving the area of terrestrial and riparian create a new linear wetland to habitat areas. habitat that has established itself improve flow and water quality; along the existing water channel. Reconfigured Inland Ponds 3. Rehabilitate the east pond to The central and easternmost ponds The creation of the open water create and open water habitat; will be converted to an online habitat habitat pond will introduce an 4. Rehabilitate the existing water pond and a linear wetland. enhanced aquatic habitat, with the channel to reduce algae blooms; potential to attract new species to The westernmost recreation pond the park including turtles and wading 5. Improve access to pond edge will be rehabilitated by reshaping the birds. and provide accessible wetland pond edge to create an accessible bridges, boardwalks and an promenade that is integrated into the New Recreational, Interpretive and accessible trail loop; circulation system of the park. Educational Opportunities 6. Improve the relationship between By focusing the seasonal recreational the new park building and A reduction in water surface area opportunities in the west pond, rehabilitated ponds with lookouts will serve to improve circulation and wetland boardwalks and lookouts and educational opportunities; reduce water temperatures, which in will provide opportunities for 7. Reconstruct the existing water turn, should reduce the algae growth more intimate wildlife and wetland channel and weir bridges to in the pond system as a whole. observation in the linear wetland and afford safer vehicular maintenance The technical aspects of the water open water habitat pond. system are described in further detail access; in Chapter 6.3 - Ponds & Linear 8. Restore the existing amphitheater Wetland. for wetland observation and educational programming; 9. Improve overall water quality within the pond and channels by adjusting water depth, temperature and circulation. New Pond Edge New Open Water New Wetland Pathways Habitat Pond Boardwalk and Wetland

Rehabilitated Recreational Pond and Wetland

Section at open water pond edge Section at recreational pond edge

88 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN 8 4

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7

Legend

Ponds & Linear Wetland Boundary

Illustrated plan of the Ponds & Linear Wetland

BIG MOVES 89 5.7 PONDS & LINEAR WETLAND

The ponds and linear wetland can become a centre for active recreation in the park, while providing unique interpretive and educational opportunities and new wetland habitats.

View across the linear wetland towards the recreational pond illustrating seasonal recreation

Recreational Accessible Wetland Wetland Wetland Pond Boardwalk Habitat Bridge

Section through the rehabilitated ponds and linear wetland showing increased water depths and vegetation cover

90 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Linear Wetland Accessible Wetland Open Water Channel Boardwalk Habitat Pond

BIG MOVES 91 5.8 EASTERN NATURALIZED PENINSULA

The setting of the Eastern Peninsula is so spectacular that it is possible for a moment, to forget that the park is only steps away from a densely populated metropolis.

A Hidden Gem Recommendations The eastern peninsula of Humber The secluded east shoreline near the 1. Improve accessibility to the Bay Park is rugged and beautiful. point of the peninsula will be remain east peninsula by resurfacing The far reaches of the eastern intact, but the large stones will be pathways and providing peninsula offer moments for rest reorganized to discourage activities alternative routes and improved and contemplation where one can such as fires and littering. wayfinding; experience reprieve from urban life 2. Improve access to the shoreline Views to the Lake and to the City while taking advantage of some of from the main path; the most dramatic views of the lake skyline will be improved by framing and City skyline. views, strategic clearing of vegetation 3. Enhance the quality and increase and providing raised landforms to the size of successful habitat Protection and enhancement of the allow views beyond the revetment areas; existing character and naturalized stones. 4. Rehabilitate and temporarily limit habitat areas will be a priority. access to habitat areas in decline Improving Accessibility to to provide an establishment The minimal changes proposed Naturalized Park Space period; will include habitat enhancement, Subtle upgrades to pathways, lookouts, improved pathways and materials and site furnishings will 5. Introduce nesting structures for signage as well as programming for significantly increase the accessibility bird species of local concern (e.g. more passive recreation, including to the eastern peninsula. barn swallow and chimney swift); wildlife observation and fishing. 6. Provide access to new Pathways will be resurfaced to create recreational nodes at the east Improving Shoreline Access uniform surfaces and benches will be embayment; Improved access to the south rocky introduced that are accessible from shoreline could be provided in the the pathways. 7. Introduce wayfinding and form of large slabs or revetment interpretive signage at key points steps, to aid in negotiating the rough The introduction of wayfinding along pathways; signage and distance markers will terrain. 8. Realign the pathway to the also aid in planning a route through Air India Memorial to resolve the park that meets all park users the grade change and create needs and abilities to make the park a ceremonial pathway and to accessible for all. provide a better accessible connection. 9. Improve connections and reduce conflicts at the bridge from Humber Bay Shores Park; 10. Maximize opportunities to view Mimico Creek and the inland water features;

Views towards the lake and City skyline Naturalized meadow landscape

92 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN 2 6

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Legend

Eastern Naturalized Peninsula Boundary

Illustrated plan of the Eastern Naturalized Peninsula

BIG MOVES 93 View toward the City skyline from Humber Bay Park East

94 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN PARK COMPONENTS 6

95 6.1 VEHICULAR ACCESS

The Master Plan proposes an overarching rethink of the internal vehicular layout in order to achieve a more integrated site design.

Park Vehicular Access Design & Materials Recommendations Vehicular access within the park All vehicular access and service / • Reduce vehicular circulation routes should be minimized where possible emergency access routes must be within the park; and re-positioned as to prioritize and designed to meet structural loading • Reconfigure and consolidate maximize the potential of available and snow removal requirements. vehicular circulation routes to park space for programming and maximize park space; habitat. Updated vehicular routes Permeable Paving are to be coordinated with proposed Where possible, the quantity of • Improve emergency access to parking, pedestrian pathways and impervious pavement material should heavily used or programmed cycling trails to minimize conflicts. be reduced. Proposed pavements spaces (dogs off-leash area, ponds, should be replaced with porous and etc.); Maintenance Access self-draining materials wherever • More clearly define maintenance Routes for service vehicles are to be possible. and operations access points and coordinated with parks maintenance practices within the park; and operations staff to ensure the Curbs dimensions of vehicles and turning As a go forward action, continuous • Improve intersections and radii can be accommodated on all lengths of raised curbing should crossings within the park to reduce multi-use paths and specified service/ be minimized. Proposed localized conflicts between vehicles, cyclists bridge crossings and at sensitive curbing to have openings at regular and pedestrians; habitat areas (e.g. Eastern Ecological intervals in order to direct all surface • Incorporate low-impact zone), to ensure areas are protected. run-off to bioswale and infiltration development (LID) and best Staff training also recommended zone locations. management practices for to support new infrastructure and stormwater management into the habitat enhancements. Speed & Crossing Controls design of roadways and paved Traffic calming measures, including surfaces. Emergency Access new crosswalks, signage and raised Primary circulation routes and bridges table tops (at pedestrian and cyclist are to be designed to accommodate crossings) to be located at key emergency fire and ambulance locations in order to reduce conflicts vehicles loading and dimensional and to reduce vehicular speeds. requirements.

Provide maintenance access on primary Curb with openings to allow drainage to Distinctive pavement markings at trail park pathways bioswales, Durham College, UOIT crossings, Lower Don trail, Toronto 96 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

Mimico Creek

Lake Ontario

Legend Primary Vehicular Access

Primary Maintenance Access

Secondary Maintenance / Emergency Access

Potential vehicular access to and within Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 97 6.2 PARKING

Develop a rationalized parking strategy that meets required parking needs while reducing the extent of paved surfaces.

Parking Redistribution An integrated parking strategy The Master Plan does not recommend Flexible surfaces in the Humber The Park Core will been reconfigured a significant reduction in the total Bay Park West Entrance Market in order to create an increase in number of available parking spaces, As part of the Humber Bay Park West connections between Humber but rather it suggests the redistribution Entrance Market improvements, the Bay Park East and West, allowing of parking within the park as a whole. northernmost parking lot should be amenities on both sides of Mimico Suggested changes to parking reconfigured as a flexible market Creek to be shared. distribution within the park are based space, with enhanced paving on the analysis of historical data, materials, to serve as an accessible The design of the West Entrance scale comparisons and patterns community space that will have Market will be better suited to larger of use, as well as the functional the potential to accommodate the parking volumes, while the East requirements related to improvements smaller-scale events and markets that Entrance Meadow lends itself better to programming and amenities listed in occur throughout the summer and fall to a smaller scale vehicular access. the Master Plan. seasons. Within the Park Core, the Master Plan recommendations result in a net In order to reduce the visual and The space should be configured to reduction of 47 spaces, approximately physical impact of parking within allow overflow parking if required, 10% overall, which is still well above the landscape, the Master Plan during significant events. The the average parking counts for large recommends that large parking remainder of the parking lot should City parks. lots be broken down into smaller, be reconfigured to provide smaller, decentralized parking areas, that better passenger vehicle-sized spaces, while integrate with the to the character of preserving sufficient truck and trailer Design & Materials the park. Resizing of parking spaces spaces to accommodate the existing The design of parking areas should and access lanes will ensure that the large boat launch including pick-up/ take into consideration both overall overall paved surface is reduced, drop-off at the smaller non-motorized park aesthetic and sustainable best while ensuring safe access and boat launch. practices, including the use of porous, maneuverability. A reduction in the permeable surfaces and pavements amount of pavement will allow for the An organic approach to parking in and incorporation of bioswales and creation of more useable park space, Humber Bay Park East water treatment. stormwater treatment and habitat. The large continuous parking lot in Humber Bay Park East should be Decentralized parking in the Humber reduced in size to accommodate the Recommendations Bay Park West Peninsula needs of park users, while reducing The small parking lots on the points of the number of off-site users. • Reduce paved impervious surfaces the west peninsula will be redistributed where possible; along the south side of the driveway. To achieve this the Master Plan • Incorporate bioswales, planting This new arrangement, will allow the recommends that the parking spaces islands low-impact development limited space on the points to be be arranged along a reconfigured (LID) and best management reclaimed as park and open space entrance drive, with the inclusion of practices for stormwater for additional recreational use and pick-up / drop off and bus laybys in management into the design of protected habitats. proximity to the new building. The parking areas where possible; smaller scale of the parking areas The proposed perpendicular parking will provide opportunities to increase • Provide parking spaces that meet configuration is similar to other large the area of the pollinator meadow the AODA criteria for accessible parks in the City, including High Park, and create a more striking landscape parking throughout the park; allowing direct access to the park entrance. • Ensure adequate parking space for increased accessibility to the length of a various modes of transportation, the shoreline, with the added benefit such as boat trailers, etc. of providing some traffic calming along the roadway.

98 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Park Lawn Road e v i r D

e d a r a P e in ar A4 M C1 A3

Lake shore Boulevard

A2

Mimico Creek

B2

A1 B1

Lake Ontario

West Peninsula Parking: The total West Entrance Market Parking: The East entrance Meadow Parking: number of parking spaces on the West number of permanent parking spaces in The number of parking spaces in the Peninsula is proposed to be increased the West Market Entrance is proposed East entrance Meadow, is proposed to from 60 spaces in the 3 existing lots, to 84 to be decreased from 224 spaces, to 155 be decreased from 228 spaces in the spaces along the length of the roadway. spaces, with flexibility for an additional 84 existing lot, to 166 spaces, distributed spaces within the market plaza. along the reconfigured loop driveway. A1. Dogs Off-Leash Lot 22 Spaces B1. Humber Bay Park West Lot C1. Humber Bay East Loop 155 Spaces 166 Spaces A2. Humber Bay Park West Lot 24 Spaces B2. Market Plaza Overflow Lot 85 Spaces A3. Humber Bay Park West Lot 24 Spaces A4. Humber Bay Park West Lot 14 Spaces

PARK COMPONENTS 99 6.3 ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION

Encourage a variety of modes of transport to and from the park to reduce vehicular travel and parking requirements within the park.

Active Transportation Transit The Waterfront Trail Cycling TTC Bus & Streetcar Bisecting the northern edge of Through each park provide and Bus stop access provides an the park, the Waterfront Trail is an delineate clearly marked cycling alternative mode of transportation important active transportation trails with safe transitions and clear to and from the park. Bus stops are route and connection to the network sightlines. Bike parking and bike present near park entrances, however of waterfront parks, naturalized sharing stations are to be located clear signage and access should be shorelines and waterfront trails. at key points within the park and provided in coordination with the accessible at key park features and wayfinding and signage strategy. In order to reduce conflicts at key amenities for access by all park users. Waterfront Trail intersections within Humber Bay Park, improvements Non-Motorized Watercraft Recommendations should include improved intersection Provide a series of formal and • Clearly identify access points, treatments including in-pavement trail informal safe access points for stops and parking for alternative etiquette messaging and pavement non-motorized watercraft at Mimico modes of getting to the park which markings, traffic calming design Creek and at sheltered points along include buses and bikes; interventions and signage. All such Lake Ontario shoreline. It should be improvements should be coordinated noted that minimal infrastructure and • Provide sufficient parking spaces with and approved by Cycling storage facilities can be introduced to for bikes in proximity to amenities Infrastructure and the City’s Multi Use support boating related operations. within the park; Trail Guidelines. • Locate Bike Sharing Stations near Walking the Waterfront Trail to promote connections to downtown by way Pedestrian pathways through both of the trail.; parks will be upgraded to provide a trail hierarchy comprised of primary, • Provide access and launch sites for secondary and tertiary trails, allowing non-motorized watercraft (canoes safe access, while preserving the and kayaks); unique character of the site. In • Ensure the process of getting to addition, a series of circulation loops the park is accessible for all modes throughout the site will allow for a of transportation; range of experiences and activities accessible to all users. • Optimize public safety by minimizing potential conflicts between vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.

Integration with the Waterfront Trail is an TTC stops on the major adjacent streets important objective of the plan. provide access to the park 100 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Park Lawn Road e v i r E D

e d a r a P e in ar M

D Lake Shore Boulevard West

C Legend Waterfront Trail

Mimico Creek A. Waterfront Trail entrance into Humber Bay Park West from Humber Bay Promenade Park and B Mimico Linear Park B. Waterfront Trail Crossing at Humber Bay Park West entrance drive C. Waterfront Trail at Mimico Creek Bridge D. Waterfront Trail entrance into Humber Bay Park West at Marine Parade Drive A E. Waterfront Trail entrance to Humber Bay Park East at Humber bay Shores

Waterfront Trail and key crossings through Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 101 6.4 PATHWAYS & TRAILS

Design a hierarchy of paths and trails that are safe, accessible, offer a range of experiences and are understandable to park users.

Pathway Hierarchy Circuits & Loops Recommendations Establishing a hierarchy of pathways The Master Plan will establish a range • Re-evaluate existing physical and trails will allow users to of options and accessible pathways, access and circulation patterns; experience Humber Bay Park’s unique providing different experiences • Safeguard existing sensitive character while controlling access throughout the park. They can also habitats; and providing protection for sensitive address seasonal needs, both and naturalized areas. The Master Plan operational requirements, as well as • Establish a hierarchy of pathways proposes three levels of trail hierarchy protecting habitat during nesting and and connections that meet AODA as follows: establishment. criteria for accessible routes; • Connect to existing routes Primary Pathways Orientation & Information on adjacent parkland and The Master Plan identifies primary Through strategically placed upgrade pathways as required loops that integrate the core area of signage and the naming of paths to accommodate increased the park and a portion of the Western and trails, users will be able to orient pedestrian and cyclist travel; Peninsula. Primary paths within the themselves and make more informed park will be range from 2.5m to 3.0m decisions regarding which paths to • Improve routes and walking and wide and be accessible to all users. take to access different features and cycling experiences through The paths will be well lit and able to amenities within the park. Humber Bay Park; support regular vehicular loading for • Improve visual connectivity within maintenance purposes. Distance & Route Planning the park; Proposed signage should include • Create a universally accessible Secondary Pathways information regarding distances to sensory trail including wayfinding, Branching out from the primary connections and features within the habitat and nature interpretation; pathways, the secondary routes will park. This information will aid users in connect and transition into all areas of route planning to their destination. • Optimize public safety by the park, linking shorelines, outlooks minimizing potential conflicts and open spaces. Secondary paths Accessibility between vehicles, cyclists and will designed to accommodate a Accessible paths and routes will pedestrians. range of users, while maintaining be clearly identified at all pathway a more natural character. They will intersections and at key points of be a minimum of 2.1m in width and arrival. Wayfinding signage will to be will include the wetland boardwalks, designed with accessibility in mind as well as the crushed limestone and be aligned with the City’s Parks pathways. Parks and Trails Wayfinding Strategy.

Trails & Nature Paths The trails and nature paths will take users through the more intimate and naturalized areas of the park. Trails may be compacted ground, or wood chip surfacing and are intended to have a minimal impact within the landscape. These trail may be seasonally inaccessible or blocked off to protect species during nesting periods. These trails will require periodic maintenance for levelling as well as pruning at the base of plant material to maintain sight-lines and sufficient clear overhead height. Asphalt surface for primary paths Limestone surfaces for secondary paths

102 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

Mimico Creek

Lake Ontario

Legend City Sidewalks

Waterfront Trail

Primary Pathways

Secondary Pathways

Trails & Nature Paths

Potential network of pathways and trails within Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 103 6.5 BRIDGES & CROSSINGS

The experience of the water crossings are central to the concept of an integrated Park Core and will transform the two halves of the park into a greater whole.

Lake Shore Boulevard West Twinned Mimico Creek Bridge New Mimico Creek Bridge Bridge The existing pedestrian bridge is At the mouth of Mimico Creek, a The existing Lake Shore Boulevard a signature architectural feature new pedestrian crossing is proposed West crossing along the south that should be saved, restored to further integrate and reinforce sidewalk should be upgraded to and protected. Upgrades should the idea of the Park Core. The new provide a more generous pedestrian include an audit of the existing connection would provide improved connection and a potential lookout bridge structure and replacement/ access between the main parking over Mimico Creek. A reconfigured improvement of bridge decking and lots in Humber Bay Park West and the sidewalk and lookout would lighting. This bridge should be used recreational amenities in Humber Bay strengthen the identity of the park as the primary pedestrian connection. Park East. It would also alleviate the along Lake Shore Boulevard West conflicts caused by the large numbers and provide enhanced pedestrian Construction of a new bridge should of users crossing at the existing connections to better integrate into be considered immediately adjacent Mimico Creek Bridge and offer the Park Core. to the existing signature structure, dramatic views to the Lake. provide a separate facility for cyclists and other users and to minimize Shoreline edge treatments could also conflicts along this segment of the consider habitat enhancements and Waterfront Trail. The proposed new a recreational node near proposed bridge should have a simple and bridge abutments. minimalist design to avoid visually competing with the existing signature structure.

Ma Park Lawn Road rin e P ar ad e D rive

Mimico Creek

Mimico Creek M im ico C Lake Shore Boulevard West re ek

Lake Shore Boulevard West bridge Twinned Mimico Creek bridge New mouth of Mimico Creek bridge lookout 104 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay Park East Crossings and Boardwalks Toronto Water Stormwater Water Channel Crossing Wetland Boardwalks Management Facility Crossing The bridge over the water channel & Boardwalks (D) should meet all The existing bridge at the City of waterfall (B) should be refurbished accessibility requirements and Toronto stormwater management to provide a safe and even walking provide all-season access to the new facility (A) is in good condition, surface that is wide enough to recreational pond and an intimate however the bridge approaches accommodate maintenance and experience of new wetland habitats. should be redesigned to provide emergency vehicles. adequate visibility and lookout space Design & Materials to alleviate congestion in this area. Recreational Pond Weir Crossing All bridges should be designed to Similar to the water channel crossing, meet TRCA permitting requirements, The limestone pathways leading to the bridge over the recreational accessibility requirements and the bridge between Humber Bay Park pond weir (C) should be refurbished structurally capable of supporting and Humber Bay Shores Park should to meet accessibility requirements maintenance and emergency vehicle be upgraded with a wider asphalt and provide adequate width and loading. surface to reflect the increasing loading capacity to accommodate pedestrian and cyclist traffic over the maintenance and emergency Any new bridge design should have bridge. vehicles. a clean, minimalist appearance and be compatible with existing structures within the park. New structures should not overwhelm their setting, or compete with the existing signature bridge over Mimico Creek.

Where possible, bridges and bridge A approaches should offer views to the water by means of widened lookouts or viewing decks.

Recommendations B • Provide increased connectivity across Mimico Creek; • Provide enhanced views to Mimico Lake Creek, Lake Ontario and the ponds Ontario in Humber Bay Park East; D • New structures should accommodate future user needs Legend and vehicular use; A. Toronto Water Stormwater • Upgrade existing structures to Management Facility meet most current accessibility Crossing standards. B. Water Channel Crossing C. Recreational Pond C Weir Crossing D. Wetland Boardwalks

Bridges and boardwalks in Humber Bay Park East

PARK COMPONENTS 105 6.6 PONDS & LINEAR WETLAND

Create a functional design for the artificial ponds and water channel that improves their ecological and recreational functions while reducing maintenance and operation requirements.

Inland Water Features Recreational Pond Existing Water Channel Access and Lookouts The main recreational pond (A) (most The easterly water channel (D) will A network of accessible boardwalks westerly pond) will be deepened to remain in its existing configuration, is proposed throughout the new better accommodate programmed with localized adjustments and wetland habitat and at the perimeter activities such as model boating in modifications to improve water flow. of the recreational pond, to provide the summer months and informal ice- year-round access. skating in the winter. The increased Pump System depth will also help to mitigate The implementation of pond and New viewing opportunities will be ongoing algae issues by reducing water channel improvements will provided through strategic vegetation water temperature. include alterations to the pump management (D1) to create views into system aimed at enhancing the the established wetland habitats at In order to raise the water level within function of the system and improving the amphitheater space as well as at this pond, the existing pond liner will water quality in the pond/wetland the more formal lookouts, boardwalks be extended and the elevation of the environment. These alterations will and platforms (D2). existing outlet weir will be increased include: to maintain the required water levels. In addition, the new building for • Retrofitting the pump inlet to draw Humber Bay Park East (D3) will be Linear Wetland water from a minimum of 2.0m accessible from the waters edge The central pond will be reconfigured below the surface of Lake Ontario; boardwalks, offering access and into a narrow serpentine linear viewing opportunities to activities on • Providing a flow splitter at the wetland (B) to improve water flow and the recreational pond and for wildlife ‘summer’ outlet from the pump circulation and reduce stagnant water. observation into the more naturalized system to enable the re-direction wetland habitats. The linear wetland will be created by of flows from the pond system to infilling the existing ponds to create the channel system as required. a sinuous berm that will subdivide Maintenance actions will include: the ponds into a series of channels. The outlet of the linear wetland into • Monitoring the pump inlet to the recreational pond, will be fitted identify obstructions; with a weir to allow for water level • Removal of debris from the pump control. Overall water quality within inlet and from the outlet weirs the system will be improved by within the pond/channel system. increasing the length of the wetland system, reducing the surface area • Maintenance of the pumps and of the water and increasing water associated control and ventilation depths to reduce water temperatures systems; and prevent the potential for algae • Water level monitoring to identify Strategic Vegetation Management (D1): blooms. water loss that could indicate the Adaptively manage vegetation in strategic areas to facilitate viewing presence of a breach in the liner; Open Water Online Habitat Pond opportunities to water bodies and create • Winterization and conversion of a natural visual observation point. The easterly pond will be the system from summer to winter reconfigured into a broad, open water operation annually. habitat pond (C) with a naturalized riparian edge.

Accessible Wetland Lookout (D2): Create an accessible platform that allows physical interaction with the water edge, but not access into the water.

106 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Recommendations • Improve water quality and enhance • Provide enhanced multi-season • Ensure the safety of users at all existing habitats within the ponds programming opportunities and lookout locations; and existing water channel; access in and around the ponds • Consider sustainable materials for • Improve habitat within ponds and and waterway; all look outs; consider habitat requirements • Address long-term sustainability • Maximize opportunities for when designing the edge objectives; unique experiences at each of the conditions in the naturalized • Observation decks along the lookouts; channels; edges of the these water bodies • All platforms and lookouts to be should consider long term effect integrated with a minimal impact to on the water quality; the site and habitat.

Humber Bay E1

D E1

E1 E2

E1 E2 C

Legend B A. Recreational Pond E2 B. Linear Wetland C. Open Water Online Habitat E3 Lake Pond Ontario D. Water Channel

A Access and Lookouts: E1. Strategic Vegetation Management E2. Wetland Lookout E3. Humber Bay Park East Building Outlook

Potential improvements to the ponds and water channel within Humber Bay Park East

PARK COMPONENTS 107 6.7 SHORELINE EXPERIENCES

Improve visitor interface at the shoreline through the creation of viewpoints, platforms and lookouts for passive recreation, observation and contemplation.

Shoreline Experiences Humber Bay Park has an extensive Physical Access shoreline edge that offers a variety The Humber Bay Park shoreline is a of lookout points both into the dynamic and at times, a hazardous park and onto the lake towards the environment. Due to the nature of the Strategic Vegetation Management (A1): downtown skyline. To this end, the materials used in the construction of Adaptively manage vegetation in Master Plan makes recommendations the park, access into the water cannot strategic areas to facilitate viewing for enhancing the access, both opportunities to water bodies and create be made safe. Where demand is a natural visual observation point. physical and visual, of this striking and greatest, stepped platforms (B1) that defining part of Humber Bay Park. The can withstand the wind and constant Master Plan does not recommend wave action of Lake Ontario are modifications or maintenance of recommended to facilitate physical the shoreline itself, as this is a TRCA access across the rough shoreline regulated area. terrain. Revetment Lookout (A2): Raise ground level to create an even observation point Furthermore, all lookouts and Each lookout or access point will be at edges where the revetment is higher shoreline interventions will be subject designed specifically for the shoreline than the parks level. to TRCA review as well as feasibility condition that it relates to. studies, including geotechnical investigations. Recommendations Visual Access There are a number of interventions • Ensure the safety of users at all lookout locations; Raised Landform Lookout (A3): Create that are proposed to provide new berms above the visual edge along the or enhanced views to the lake and • Consider sustainable materials for shoreline to create unobstructed views Mimico Creek. all look outs; across Lake Ontario.

These interventions will take a • Maximize opportunities for number of different forms that will unique experiences at each of the be designed to be site specific to lookouts; the shoreline/edge condition, access • All platforms and lookouts are requirements, safety and desired to be integrated with a minimal Shoreline Lookout (A4): Install a designed experience or views. See thumbnail impact to the site and habitat. observation platform that allows a images along the edge of the page closer visual interaction with the water at for details. strategic locations.

Accessible Recreational Node (A5): Design platforms suitable for observation & fishing requirements that do not allow access into the water.

Shoreline Access (B1): Design platforms that allow water access into the lake or Provide formal transition to water’s edge Create unique viewing platforms pond where permissible.

108 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN B1 A5 Humber Bay

A5 B1 A1

M i mic A1 o Cr eek A2

B1 A4

Mimico Creek

A4 A4

A4 A1 A2

A4 A2 Lake Ontario

B1

Legend Visual Access: A3 A1. Strategic Vegetation Management A2. Revetment Lookout A3. Raised Landform Lookout A4 B1 A4. Shoreline Lookout B1 A5. Accessible Recreational Node

A2 Physical Access A2 B1. Shoreline Access

Potential improvements to the shoreline of Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 109 6.8 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Explore opportunities to expand and enhance the natural ecologies within the park.

Pollinator Meadow Habitat Wetland Habitat Open Aquatic Habitat The pollinator meadow habitat The existing and proposed wetlands The new open water online habitat enhancements will sustain a variety will be enhanced by improving water pond within Humber Bay Park East of native plant species that attract quality and creating habitat features will provide a range of habitat at the pollinators (e.g. bees, butterflies, that attract birds, turtles and frogs. heart of the park. moths and birds) and increase ecological function and overall biodiversity in the park. Recommendations Recommendations • Create a wetland feature in the • Introduce logs for turtle basking Recommendations centre and east pond that reduces and as a refuge for waterfowl; open water area, includes a higher • Explore opportunities to increase • Create nodes of pollinator diversity of native emergent and emergent vegetation and meadow/prairie restoration areas floating vegetation that supports a improve nesting opportunities for within the existing open meadow higher diversity and abundance of waterfowl; habitats; wildlife; • Increase riparian cover and • Seed new habitat with a high • Introduce logs or boulders to structural diversity to provide diversity of native wildflowers, provide basking and refuge for opportunities for reproduction grasses and shrubs to attract turtles and frogs; and foraging for birds and other pollinators and increase the wildlife; ecological function of this habitat type; • Create deep pockets for overwintering herpetiles; • Reduce, where possible, invasive non-native plants (e.g. Dog- strangling Vine) from the park; • Create habitat features for wildlife including Barn Swallow structures and bat box/colony structures.

Pollinator Meadows Wetland Habitats Open Aquatic Habitats

110 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Woodland Habitat Humber The wooded habitats in Humber Bay Bay Park can be enhanced to improve habitat for migrant and breeding A3 birds and increase the overall E biodiversity in the park. A1 A1 C Recommendations

• Improve existing soil conditions B in areas where tree planting is E E proposed; Mimico Creek A2 • Plant a diversity of native tree and Lake Ontario shrub species that are tolerant of D1 exposed conditions; • Remove/manage invasive tree and shrub species that may prevent the successful establishment of planted trees; D2 • Increase the area of woodland Legend habitats; • Reduce/prevent the damage to Pollinator Meadow Habitat Improvements trees by park users by restricting access to restored/planted areas. A1. East Entrance Meadow A2. West Bank of Recreational Pond A3. Eastern Naturalized Peninsula Meadow

D3 Wetland Habitat Improvements B. New Linear Wetland

Open Water Habitat Improvements C. New Open Water Online Habitat Pond

Woodland Habitat Improvements D1. Mouth of Mimico Creek East D2. Mouth of Mimico Creek West D3. Dogs Off-leash Area

Ongoing TRCA Initiatives E. TRCA Managed Wetlands

Woodland Habitats Potential improvements to the vegetation communities of Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 111 6.8 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

An important objective set forth in the Master Plan is the establishment and protection of habitat for a range of breeding fauna species.

Birds and Bats in the Park Remote Places in the Park Recommendations Chimney Swift Throughout the park, there are • Enhance existing habitat size and A false chimney should be several areas that exemplify the diversity; constructed as part of any new naturalized character of Humber Bay • Protect sensitive habitat; building construction and should be Park. These areas are visible from constructed to appear as part of that pathways, but have limited physical • Enhance viewing opportunities building. There are no sensitivities to access due to the surrounding for key naturalized character this structure with respect to proximity topography and vegetation. The landscapes; to people/trails or timing sensitivities, lack of significant disturbance from • Create new aquatic and terrestrial other than interference with the entry foot traffic has allowed these areas habitat; point to the false chimney. to support an interesting mix of habitat and foraging opportunities • Restrict watercraft access to Barn Swallow for a number of aquatic bird species. embayments; Barn swallow nesting opportunities Although these places are not • Enhance habitat opportunities for should be explored as part of the completely free from the impacts of Chimney Swifts, Barn Swallows, design of new building and bridges their urban setting, they provide a Cliff Swallows and bats; rare glimpse of wildlife activity that (e.g. nesting cups under eaves). • Establish a management plan for adds to the richness of Humber Bay habitat protection and monitoring; Bat Box/Colony Structure Park. These structures should be placed at • Coordinate initiatives with TRCA for least 5 meters from any trail. Similar The Master Plan recommends Red-necked Grebe platforms and to the Barn Swallow structures, that these areas be protected by viewing locations; maintaining the current, limited interpretive/educational signage can • Provide informational and level of physical access that has be used to explain the value of bats, interpretive panels at key locations allowed these landscapes to the purpose of the structure and in the park; the sensitivity of the bat structure to thrive. These areas should also be • Coordinate formal and informal disturbance. celebrated by providing improved viewing opportunities from adjacent bird watching areas. Cliff Swallow pathways, bridges and outlooks The design of bridges will provide and should include interpretive opportunities to increase habitat and educational signage to further for Cliff Swallow. Cliff Swallow are facilitate the appreciation of these not sensitive to proximity to trails/ special landscapes. pedestrians as the nests, typically built beneath these structures, are typically not accessible to humans and direct contact.

Red-necked Grebe The embayment containing Red- necked Grebe nesting platforms is considered sensitive to motorized watercraft (e.g. jet ski). However, viewing platforms or trails leading to viewing locations around the embayment can be considered. The viewing platform should be designed to blend into the shoreline with a minimal height (under 1 meter).

Chimney Swift tower, Ann Arbor, Educational and interpretive panels at Michigan key habitats within the park 112 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

A3

A4

A1

A2 Lake Ontario Mimico Creek

Legend

Natural Character Landscapes A1. Mouth of Mimico Creek A2. Mimico Creek East Bank and Wetland A3. East Embayment Riparian Edge A4. Existing Water Channel

Chimney Swift Nesting Opportunities

Barn Swallow Nesting Opportunities

Cliff Swallow Nesting Opportunities

Bat Box / Colony Opportunities

Red-necked Grebe Nesting Site Improvements

Potential location for habitat structures within Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 113 6.9 ARCHITECTURAL IMPROVEMENTS

Recommend locations for architectural improvements within Humber Bay Park East and West, including integration within existing buildings and natural ecologies.

Buildings & Structures Recommendations There are two existing buildings in Humber Bay Park West Building • Program for proposed new Humber Bay Park. One within the east The Master Plan recommends that building to meet the needs and one within the west peninsula. the existing building and service yard expressed through the Both facilities are necessary and there (B) in Humber Bay Park West will be architectural consultation process; is a need for a building to service the maintained with future consideration • New building size is to be sufficient needs for each park. for modernization and yard to support the proposed program; consolidation. Buildings and structures within the • The new building site is to meet park should aim to implement green The Master Plan also recommends ecological, regulatory, cost and building strategies where possible, that a more complete audit and infrastructure criteria approved by including green roofs, rainwater study of the existing services, uses, the TRCA and the city; harvesting and even possibly, the use spatial requirements and impacts • Built form for new building is to of cisterns and grey water recycling, is completed as a separate project. be integrated with the landscape in the case of occupied buildings. The project will need to consider the character of Humber Bay Park; operational needs of Humber Bay Humber Bay Park East Building Park as a whole - as well as in the • All proposed shade structures and A separate process initiated by the context of other Parks needs for the other architectural improvements City of Toronto Parks, Forestry and West District. are to be constructed using robust, Recreation identified the need for durable, vandal proof sustainable a new park building in Humber Bay New Shade & Shelter Structures materials; Park East. The selection of a site for At several locations, shade structures • All architectural improvements this new building was included as a are proposed to be provided to should integrate low-impact part of the Master Plan. With this in function as wind covers or rain development (LID) strategies mind, the architectural design process shelters. They should be designed and best management practices for the building has been undertaken in coordination with the way-finding for stormwater management as as a separate and complimentary strategy and located only in areas an integrated component of the consultation process. identified for passive recreational use. design;

The preferred location for the Seasonal or temporary installations • Architectural improvements, Humber Bay Park East building should also be considered, including including building and shade (A) is located centrally near the warming huts during winter months structures are to consider the reconfigured ponds, with direct and bird blinds for bird-watching. overall site lighting strategy for access to parking and drop-off. Humber Bay Park. In addition, this location provides In all instances proposed designs are better opportunities for integrating to be complementary and sensitive to the architecture within the site and the character of Humber Bay Park and innovative sustainable design and will have minimal negative impacts. future program opportunities. These include: Large canopies for rain and shade at the new East Market Plaza (C1), shade structures at the picnic area near the mouth of Mimico Creek (C2), in the East Entrance Meadow (C3) and at the western point of the West Peninsula (C4), wind and rain shelters in the dogs off-leash area (C5), adjacent to the recreational pond (C6) and in the Eastern Naturalized Peninsula (C7).

Seasonal warming stations allow for experiencing site through all seasons 114 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

C7

C3 A

Lake Ontario C1 Mimico CreekC6

Legend C2 A. Humber Bay Park B East New Building B. Humber Bay Park West Building

Potential permanent shade / wind shelter C1. Market Plaza Canopies C2. Picnic Area Shade Structure C3. East Entrance Meadow Shade Structure C4. Western Peninsula Shade Structure C5. Dogs Off-leash Shade Structure & Wind Screen C6. Recreational Pond Shade Structure & Wind Screen C7. East Naturalized Peninsula Shade & C5 Wind Structure

C4 Potential Seasonal / Temporary Shelter

Potential architectural improvements within Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 115 6.10 WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE

Establish a clear and accessible wayfinding strategy that communicates key connections, landmarks, park features or amenities, trail hierarchy and rules and regulations to park users.

Signage and Wayfinding Recommendations within the Park Major Wayfinding & Park Hubs • Implement the City’s Parks and Central to improving wayfinding Located at significant places such as Trails Wayfinding Strategy; in Humber Bay Park is the ponds, path intersections & pedestrian • Encourage visiting, exploring and implementation of the City’s Parks access from parking areas, these signs appreciation of the park and its and Trails Wayfinding Strategy. will provide directional information as natural features; well as an added level of interpretive From the Toronto Parks and Trails and interactive information about the • Through the wayfinding strategy, Wayfinding Strategy’s Report: “The park. Signs will also include distance raise awareness of what the park City of Toronto’s Parks, Forestry & time to the next park feature (e.g. has to offer; & Recreation team has initiated pond, bridge, beach) and information • At main entrances, establish a an ambitious project to improve related to trail etiquette, accessibility stronger presence and a visual wayfinding across the City parklands. and difficulty level for each route. identity for the park; The project aim is to implement a unified wayfinding system for parks Educational Signs & Interpretive • Improve visitors’ confidence and trails that provides consistent Panels to walk/explore by providing information on distances, circuits identification, orientation and These signs will provide interpretive and loops; navigation across parklands.” information at lookouts, view points and significant places of natural, • Ensure a variety of signage types Park Identity and Gateway Signs historical or cultural interest within the are available to address navigation Located at the main entrances to the park. throughout the park and park, these large signs will establish programming elements, as well as a presence on adjacent roadways, Minor Wayfinding Signs & Trail safety and restricted access; include a map of the park as well Markers • Establish key messages to remind as information on important park These signs will be located at trail users of park objectives and features, rules and regulations and entrance-exit points, along trails, at principles; emergency contact information. The frequent intervals and/or related to gateway signs are recommended memorable places such as bridges • All restoration efforts should at the Lake Shore Boulevard West and tunnels and at on-street segments be combined with interpretive Entrance into Humber Bay Park West of trails. These markers will provide signage to inform the public about (A1), at the Marine Parade Drive trail identification as well as directions, ongoing activities and, where Entrance into Humber Bay Park East distance & time to the next park possible, invite their participation; (A2), at the Waterfront Trail entrance feature (e.g. pond, bridge, beach), trail • Educational signage near habitat into Humber Bay Park West (A3) and etiquette, accessibility/route difficulty areas should not be visually the Waterfront Trail entrance into levels. dominant and should allow Humber Bay Park East at the Butterfly adequate separation of users and Habitat and Home Garden in Humber Regulatory Signage habitat for observation; Bay Shores Park (A4). Regulatory signage should be posted • Ensure all signage relating to new at all park entrances and throughout facilities, park amenities and trails the park as required to inform visitors and pathways is accessible; of a required code of conduct and to deter illegal activities (e.g. signage at • Consider alternate means for dogs off-leash area, signs indicating information sharing in the park the prohibition of fires, etc.). Any landscape that may be more regulatory signs must be reviewed and universally acceptable to all users approved by the City and TRCA for (e.g. self-guided audio tours, etc.) applicable regulations and by-laws and in the context of available resources for enforcement.

116 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay A4

A2

Lake A1 Ontario Mimico Creek

Legend Potential location for major wayfinding / park hub A3 A1. Entrance into Humber Bay Park West from Lake Shore Boulevard A2. Entrance into Humber Bay Park East from Marine Parade Drive A3. Waterfront Trail entrance into Humber Bay Park West from Humber Bay Promenade Park and Mimico Linear Park A4. Waterfront Trail entrance into Humber Bay Park East at Humber bay Shores

Potential location for educational sign / Interpretive panel

Potential location for minor wayfinding signage & trail markers

Potential locations for signage and wayfinding within Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 117 6.11 PARK PROGRAMS & FEATURES

Provide amenities to accommodate, formal and informal, passive and active activities as well as opportunities to integrate public art.

Site Furniture Public Art Upgraded site furnishings should Given the size of the park, the be deployed in key areas of the diversity of spaces and sequence of Recommendations park, including the spaces created thresholds and dramatic views, there by rearranged pathways and ponds. are great opportunities to integrate • Enhance existing program Furnishings should include park public art throughout the park. elements and improve functionality benches, picnic tables and an as required; increased number of waste and Possible areas for consideration • Allow additional amenities to be recycling receptacles, to accommodate would be at gateways & entrances added as required by park user increasing numbers of visitors. to the park, areas adjacent to needs; the farmers market, the existing Benches should be distributed along promontory south of the existing • Rationalize and improve all pathways and trails, at key gathering boat large launch and areas along the relationships between places and lookout locations, including Western Peninsula. programmed spaces, transit, the dogs off-leash area. Picnic areas parking and pathways; should be focused in the newly created Locations for public art should take • Use durable, robust, vandal- lawn areas, adjacent to farmers market, into consideration the scale of the resistant materials, to meet large recreational pond and along the site, integration with topography ongoing operational needs, Western Peninsula. and relationship to existing features while minimizing maintenance and habitat, in addition to access for requirements; All new seating and picnic areas will be maintenance. designed to meet AODA accessibility • Select ecologically sustainable requirements. The preparation of a separate Public materials for site furnishings and Art Master Plan for Humber Bay Park public art; Waste and recycling receptacles is recommended. Selection and use • Locate site furnishings and public must be located along routes that of public art for gateway features art with consideration to natural are accessible by waste management or educational purposes will be habitat. or parks maintenance vehicles, but subject to TRCA and City of Toronto should be located frequently enough guidelines for public art. to discourage littering. All furniture should be accessible, functional and constructed of high quality, robust material, with consideration given to vandal-resistant materials and finishes.

The Stone Wave by Sean Donnelly,Alton Mill Arts Centre, Caledon, ON

Site furnishings should be made of robust Create opportunities for integrated Provide new lawn areas for picnics and site furnishing materials public art within the park passive recreation 118 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

Mimico Creek

Lake Ontario

Legend Potential location for public art

Potential location for seating / rest area

Potential location for picnic area

Potential locations for site furnishings and public art within Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 119 6.11 PARK PROGRAMS & FEATURES

Provide an overall strategy to increase recreational opportunities within the park while protecting sensitive habitats and preserve the character of the park.

Humber Bay Park West The following amenities and programming opportunities for Humber Bay Park West are not presented in any particular order of importance or priority.

Re-Imagined Market Space One of the fundamental recommendations in the Master Plan involves reconfiguring the large existing parking at the Western Peninsula. By reducing the overall paved surface, creating a flexible Mimico Creek market space (A1) and sloping open lawn area (A2), a more hospitable A2 area for visitors is created. The market space will be in close A1 proximity to the existing west park building /washrooms, transit and the main West Park entranceway. The reconfigured market space will become an important amenity space for the adjacent community, for the existing Farmer’s Market and other appropriately sized events.

New flexible market space and open lawn

Enhanced Marine Amenities The existing large boat launch (B1) on the west side of the park will be maintained, including existing boat parking, with minor improvements B2 and enhancements as required. Mimico Creek Additionally, a formal kayak and canoe launch (B2) will be added along Mimico Creek near the market plaza, transforming an old boat launch into a new hub, part of a larger network of boat launches. Vehicular access, drop-off and staging areas will continue to be located immediately B1 adjacent to both these marine activity access points.

Refresh the existing boat launch and introduce a new kayak launch on Mimico Creek

120 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Children’s Playground Mimico Creek The design of a new children’s playground should be developed and integrated within the open space adjacent to the existing large boat launch, and in proximity to the proposed new Mimico Creek crossing. The Master Plan suggests a nature- based play area that integrates themes of ecology, habitat and wildlife, to complement the character of the park.

Dogs Off-Leash Area The Master Plan proposes improvements to the Dogs Off Leash Area in Humber Bay Park West. Any future improvements would need to be developed in coordination with local community groups and is subject to TRCA, City approvals and funding. The reconfigured dogs off-leash area may Children’s playground and picnic space be designed to respond to current issues and changing patterns of uses that would be part of a separate detailed design process.

• The total off-leash area will be increased in size from 6,500m2 to 9,900m2 with the potential for sub Outline division of off-leash area for smaller dogs and the provision of space for multiple fetch runs; DOLA • A reconfigured fence line will provide enhanced habitat and improved separation between dogs and naturalized areas; • The primary entrance to the off- leash area will be moved closer to the enlarged parking area, with Lake additional access points provided Ontario along the north fence line; • Upgrades to lighting, seating and provision of new shelter will promote year-round and off-peak use. Reconfigured dogs off-leash area and surrounding pathways

PARK COMPONENTS 121 6.11 PARK PROGRAMS & FEATURES

Support and enhance existing programs within the park and provide opportunities for new recreational opportunities that are complimentary to the character of Humber Bay Park.

Humber Bay Park East The following amenities and programming opportunities for Humber Bay Park East are not presented in any particular order of importance or priority.

Recreational Pond During the summer months, the pond will accommodate the annual model- boating activities. The creation of a sloping lawn immediately adjacent to the pond will allow for passive viewing.

A2 The recreational pond (A1) will have a dual programming for summer and winter months. During winter the pond will function as an informal ice- skating rink. Proposed new walkways, boardwalks and seating (A2) adjacent to the recreational pond will enhance A1 Lake this amenity. Special consideration Ontario will be given to the integration and placement of UV resistant recycled rubber matting over boardwalks during winter months.

A rehabilitated recreational pond should provide amenities for all seasons Air India Memorial To commemorate the lives of the victims of the Air India Flight 182 of 1985, a memorial was built in 2007 on the East side of the park.

The Master Plan for Humber Bay Park B1 recommends improvements to access and a better integration of the main memorial site (B1) and secondary memorial (B2) at the water’s edge. The path connecting the two B3 memorial areas will be reworked in B4 order to provide a clear accessible route, with improved pavements, materials and signage. This processional path will be lined with perennial planting that will bloom in B2 June, to coincide with the date of the tragic event.

Lake A new main path will be located Ontario west of the main memorial to allow pedestrian movement during memorial services. Memorial integration with pathway strategy

122 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Recreational Nodes Recreational nodes support a number of recreational opportunities such as fishing and nature viewing. Humber Bay Recreationnal nodes are located away C2 from the primary paths of travel to help to reduce user conflicts by providing generous, safe and accessible space at the water’s edge. C3 In coordination with the TRCA, two accessible recreational nodes have C1 been constructed in Humber Bay Park Mimico East. The node on the west side of the Creek east embayment (C1) takes advantage of a previous lookout location on a sheltered riparian edge, while the node at the north east tip of the Lake east embayment (C2) offers a more Ontario exposed, rocky shoreline experience. A third recreational node is proposed at the refurbished kayak and canoe launch Recreational nodes can be located at key locations within the park on the east bank of Mimico Creek (C3).

Outdoor Education & Nature Humber Observation Bay D3 Although the whole park lends itself to nature observation, several spaces in Humber Bay Park East are proposed for outdoor education, including the D2 new building (D1) that overlooks the recreational pond and linear wetland and the refurbished stone amphitheater D4 (D2) that overlooks the water channel. Additional opportunities also exist for smaller, more informal groups to gather D6 and observe wetland habitats at the D1 eastern end of the Water Channel (D3) and at the Eastern TRCA Wetlands (D4). Observation of the dynamic shoreline D5 Lake Ontario could occur at the south Air India Memorial space (D5), as well as on the tip of the Eastern Naturalized Peninsula (D6).

The creation of several open areas for outdoor education

PARK COMPONENTS 123 6.12 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

Implement a sustainable approach to stormwater management, drainage and energy that will benefit the ecology of Humber Bay Park.

Site Drainage Recommendations A stormwater management strategy Low-impact development solutions • The quantity of stormwater runoff consisting of design approaches and may include the use of planted discharged to the local system details based on sustainable best bioswales and biofiltration, should be reduced or eliminated practice, should be incorporated particularly adjacent to all vehicular where possible; into the design of the stormwater access routes and incorporated into • Areas of poor drainage within management system. parking layout. Humber Bay Park should be eliminated; Green Design and Innovation Where possible, the incorporation Architectural improvements in the of spillways, forebays and smaller • The quality of runoff discharged park should be tied into the overall infiltration galleries will aid in the into Lake Ontario should be stormwater management strategy for management and filtration of storm improved; the park and consideration should be water. • Incorporate bioswales, planting given to educational opportunities islands, low-impact development Permeable Surfaces relating to the innovative approaches (LID) and best management The Master Plan encourages the and green design initiatives. practices for stormwater use of permeable materials for new management into the design of Buildings and structures within the surfaces, such as parking areas and roadways, parking lots and other park can implement strategies to roads where possible, to promote and paved surfaces. intercept stormwater and to reduce the infiltration of stormwater into surface runoff, including green the ground and to reduce erosion • All architectural improvements roofs, rainwater harvesting and even associated with overland flow. should integrate stormwater possibly, the use of cisterns and management as an integrated grey water recycling, in the case of Durable precast concrete pavers component of the site design; can satisfy drainage requirements occupied buildings. • Provide educational opportunities while providing usable surface for relating to innovative approaches Bioswales, Planting Islands and programming. The selection and to stormwater management and Low-impact Development placement of permeable surfaces will green design initiatives. The park should minimize its be require coordination with snow reliance on traditional stormwater removal and other maintenance and management infrastructure and pipes operations requirements. to handle stormwater flow.

Permeable swales at roadways Incorporate naturalized bioswales Provide permeable pavement surfaces

124 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

Mimico Creek

Lake Ontario

Legend Park Buildings with Opportunities for Integrated Stormwater Management

Roadside & Parking Lot Bioswale

Permeable Paved Surface with Potential for Low-impact Development (LID)

Potential improvements to the stormwater management system within Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 125 6.13 SITE SERVICING STRATEGY

Recommend program and locations for improvements to existing site services within Humber Bay Park.

Site Services Recommendations Electrical Systems Sanitary • Provide improved electrical and Electrical systems throughout the Upgrade park washrooms to provide service at the east and west extents park require upgrading to provide year-round access. Washroom of the park. adequate power for park lighting upgrades are currently planned as • Consider providing water fountains as well as to support proposed part of the new building project in or bottle filling stations at key programmed spaces. Humber Bay Park East and should be amenity spaces and at the east and considered in Humber Bay Park west west extents of the park. In particular, improved lighting will as part of the East Market Entrance be required at the new building improvements. • Provide year-round washrooms in and reconfigured ponds in Humber the buildings in Humber Bay Park bay Park East, as well as along the Upgrades to below-grade sanitary East and West. roadway in Humber Bay Park East and infrastructure should be coordinated • Utilize alternative sources of around the dogs off-leash area. with Master Plan initiatives, including energy, where possible, for park road realignments and parking infrastructure; All new lighting must be dark reconfiguration. sky compliant and be designed • Coordinate maintenance or with consideration of the park’s Water Service upgrades to site servicing importance as a migratory flyway for Provide upgraded water connections infrastructure with Master Plan birds. and service to new amenity spaces phasing; and within the park as a whole. • Ensure that site servicing is Alternative Power Sources adequate to support proposed Park buildings are equipped with Replace decommissioned water Master Plan programming. solar panels, which should be fountains in Humber Bay Park East upgraded as needed to support the and West with water bottle filling power requirements of park staff. stations, and introduce additional stations at the east and west extents Where possible, the use of solar of the park, including at the dogs power should be used to support the off-leash area and in the Eastern broader electrical needs throughout Naturalized Peninsula. the park, including park lighting and wayfinding components. Other forms of sustainable power should be explored and the use of sustainable energy sources should be highlighted in the educational signage within the park.

Solar Panels on the maintenance building Water bottle filling station in Humber Bay Park West 126 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

Mimico Creek

Lake Ontario

Legend

Upgrades to Electrical and Lighting Systems

Upgrades to Solar Power Systems

Upgrades to Water Distribution System

Upgrades to Sanitary Systems

Potential improvements to site servicing within Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 127 6.14 LIGHTING STRATEGY

The lighting strategy for the park will enhance public safety while achieving the highest standards for energy efficiency and habitat protection through reduction of light pollution.

Safety and Security Recommendations The lighting strategy is aimed at Primary Pathways and Park Core • Lighting strategy to meet City striking a balance between providing Lighting of Toronto Green Development a safe experience of the park, while Light levels for the Park Core and Standards and Bird-friendly protecting its natural characteristics. along primary paths should prioritize guidelines; visibility, accessibility, safety and • Lighting strategy to contribute to Areas of Increased Lighting security. It is anticipated that the core the experience of Humber Bay Park Light levels at the entrance from of the park will have higher levels of at night by maintaining darkness in Lake Shore Boulevard West into lighting that other areas, to ensure portions of the park; Humber Bay Park West (A1) should accessible safe usage. be increased to provide safe light • Where possible, alternative sources levels for visitors travelling into Secondary Pathway Lighting of energy should be used for park the park. Lighting should provide Areas of the park along secondary infrastructure. uninterrupted visibility from the routes outside the core programmed road to the Waterfront Trail and into areas will be kept at minimum to the Market Plaza, which could allow ensure safety. This includes wetland potential evening and night-time boardwalks and at wayfinding stations animation of the Market Plaza. or trail markers.

The dogs off-leash area (A2) attracts Low-level Feature Lighting visitors at all times of the day, during Areas adjacent to the building and all seasons. Its continued night- recreational pond in Humber Bay Park time use is important to minimizing East, the Air India Memorial, as well unwanted activities taking place in the as the bridges and crossings will be park. It is recommended that lighting serviced using low-level lighting to within the dogs off-leash area be highlight ground-level features while increased to provide safe light levels maintaining a dark-sky and reducing along the length of the enclosed area, the prevalence of visible light sources. as well as for the pathway that runs parallel to the boat club fence.

Dark Areas The lack of illumination in the Eastern Naturalized Peninsula (B1) should be maintained. The lack of lighting is beneficial to migratory birds, but also provides a unique and rare opportunity to experience darkness along Toronto’s Waterfront. A clear indication of the lack of lighting in the eastern portions of the park should be provided at entrances to the park, to ensure that visitors do not venture into these areas unprepared.

Subtle feature lighting of site elements Low-level lighting of a seating area

128 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Humber Bay

B1 A2

Lake A1 Ontario Mimico Creek

Legend Potential location for vehicular lighting

Potential location for pedestrian lighting

Potential location for low-level feature lighting

Areas of Increased Lighting A1. Entrance to Humber Bay Park West and market Plaza A2. Entrance to Humber Bay Park A3 East A3. Dogs Off-Leash Area

Unlit / Darkened Areas B1. Eastern Naturalized Peninsula

Potential lighting strategy for Humber Bay Park

PARK COMPONENTS 129 View of Humber Bay Park East Shoreline

130 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN MANAGEMENT PLAN 7

131 7.1 MANAGEMENT PLAN

The management plan for Humber Bay Park must address ongoing, routine maintenance as well as periodic, event-based maintenance requirements.

Routine Maintenance Maintenance of Park Infrastructure Maintenance of Plant and Wildlife Maintenance of Inland Water The ongoing maintenance of Habitat Features Equipment Humber Bay Park will be critical Although Humber Bay Park has The proposed modifications to the in the success of the majority hosted a number of wildlife species inland ponds in Humber Bay Park of Master Plan initiatives. The with little to no intervention to date, East will reduce the requirement for increasing number of visitors has the continued success of habitats water quality management due to already resulted in increased wear in Humber Bay Park will depend on algae blooms. However, due to the and tear on the park and with the careful management of vegetation artificial nature of the water features, increases expected to continue, an communities to protect and renew electrical and mechanical equipment, increase in the frequency and type sensitive plant communities and pond liners and weirs must still be of maintenance level of service will control invasive species. carefully maintained and seasonally be required to maintain the existing operated to ensure a functional park infrastructure in working The seasonal assessment of plant system and provide the programming condition as well as to service new material, and particularly trees, is opportunities proposed in the Master and improved park programs and important for habitat establishment Plan. amenities. and for the safety and enjoyability of the park users.

Aerial view of Humber Bay Park

132 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Periodic Maintenance Special Maintenance Requirements Special Maintenance Requirements Seasonal Access Restrictions in Response to Weather Events in Response to Social Events A key recommendation for Humber Due to its exposed location on Throughout the year, a number of Bay Park is to implement localized Lake Ontario, Humber Bay Park is events attract large crowds of visitors seasonal access restrictions in order subject to severe storm events that to Humber Bay Park. These events to allow damaged or deteriorated impact both the shorelines and cause a sharp increase in pedestrian, vegetation to be restored in the more inland features of the park. The cycling and vehicular traffic resulting remote areas of the park. Locations maintenance plan identifies features in increased strain on the park’s for access restrictions should be that will require additional attention facilities. Additional waste removal, coordinated with the TRCA and with in the aftermath of unusual weather repairs to pathways and lawn areas the programming initiatives outlined conditions or a heavy storm event. may be required after such events. in the Master Plan. Access restrictions should also be accompanied by educational signs and suggestions for alternate routes within the park for visitors to enjoy during the closures.

MANAGEMENT PLAN 133 7.2 MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS

The maintenance of Humber Bay Park must keep pave with the increased levels of use and demand for access to waterfront open spaces in the city.

Maintenance guidelines and Standards Minimum maintenance operations The maintenance items listed on should be consistent with the most the following pages represent best current City Parks Operations delivery practices guidelines, specific to the standards. These standards should improvements described in the be reviewed by the City and updated Master Plan. Implementation of as required to ensure an ongoing projects must be accompanied by a adequate level of service within this detailed management plan, which will important City park. be subject to review by the TRCA and the City and subject to identification of collective priorities, funding sources and regulatory and budget approvals.

Visitors at the east pond in Humber Bay Park East

134 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Maintenance Item A. Habitat A1. Remove / manage invasive tree, shrub and herbaceous plant species that may impede the successful establishment of newly planted vegetation. A2. Periodically inspect Barn Swallow structure and bat box colony structures. A3. Water meadow areas during periods of extended drought to ensure survival of species and to ensure that diversity is maintained. A4. Establishment of meadow areas can be phased/implemented over several years. Limit access during period of establishment. A5. Remove/manage invasive tree, shrub and herbaceous plant species that may impede the successful establishment of newly planted trees. A6. Inspect / adjust beaver guards / rodent guards to protect newly planted trees from damage. A7. Water trees during periods of extended drought / high temperatures. A8. Establishment of wooded areas can be phased/implemented over several years. Limit access during period of establishment. B. Planting Trees / Plantings (Non Woodland) B1. Ongoing inspection and maintenance required. B2. Inspect / adjust beaver guards / rodent guards to protect newly planted trees from damage. B3. Check for winter damage in mid-March. B4. Water trees during periods of extended drought / high temperatures. B5. Add any soil amendments in early spring. B6. Inspect to identify presence of potential pests and diseases. B7. Prune to remove rubbing and or damaged trees. B8. Limb trees located in pavement or near paths. Remove all damaged and crossing limbs. Keep natural form. Shrub Plantings B9. Prune only to remove rubbing or damaged branches. B10. Never shear shrubs. Leave in a natural shape. B11. Grouped plants should be pruned together, never as individuals. Lawn Areas B12. Limit driving heavy vehicles on lawn areas in order to minimize compaction of soil. B13. Water lawn areas during periods of extended drought (21 days or more). B14. Remove excess leaves and debris, inspect for winter damage to lawns in mid-March. Adjust grades to minimize areas of excessive ponding/re-seed. B15. First spring cutting, set blade height to 5-6 cm.

MANAGEMENT PLAN 135 7.2 MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS

Maintenance Item C. Ponds & Pumping System Water Intake Pipe C1. Inspect and clean water intake of all debris/obstructions. Electrical system C2. Check and tighten terminals. C3. Inspect and test control system operations. C4. Test telemetry / alarm system. C5. Record voltage and monitor power consumption. C6. Inspect overtemperature and leakage sensors. C7. Test amperage and record readings - compare with manufacturer’s specifications. Mechanical system C8. Inspect oil / coolant for level and moisture contamination. C9. Inspect motor for cracks / wear. C10. Inspect impellers for damage / wear. C11. Drain and change lubricants in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. C12. Check operation of valves and piping. Ventilation System C13. Inspect intake / exhaust and remove any blockages / debris. C14. Inspect and test exhaust fans. Winterization C15. Remove pump conduct routine maintenance in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. C16. Switch pump system from summer outlet to winter outlet / operation (fall) and vice-versa (spring).

C17. Drain and blow-out transfer line from pump station to upstream outlet that is opposite to winter/summer operation mode. C18. Cap upstream in operative outlet to mitigate rodent habitation. * Note: Confined space and lockout / tagout procedures must be followed for works that are performed inside of pumping station. Ponds & Linear Wetland C19. Complete annual review / monitor plant material. C20. Inspect ponds and wetlands for accumulated litter / garbage & remove as required. C21. Monitor water level to ensure minimize design water level is maintained - if water levels recede, inspect pond liner for breaches.

136 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Maintenance Item Control Structures & Weirs C22. Complete bi-weekly visual review/ inspection to ensure weirs and waterways are free from obstructions and are clean and operating as per design parameters. C23. Inspect weir structures to identify potential breaches / cracks. C24. Inspect weir structures for accumulated litter / garbage & remove as required. C25. Monitor for beaver activity and remove obstructions / dams as they are constructed. C26. Monitor and adjust weir elevations as required to optimize pond function. Periodic drawdowns may be desirable to maintain desired plant communities.

D. Paved Surfaces Paved Pathways and Trails D1. Complete periodic inspection to ensure pathways are safe, stable, accessible and have positive drainage. Farmers Market Modular Surface D2. Complete periodic inspection to ensure pavement is structurally stable and has positive drainage. Replace damaged modular unit pavement as required. Roadways and Parking D3. Complete periodic inspection to ensure roadways and parking surfaces are stable and have positive drainage. Bridges D4. Complete visual inspection of all footings, decking and guard rails to ensure structures are stable and sound. Ensure deck surfaces are level and waterways are clear of debris.

E. Infrastructure Stormwater / Site Drainage E1. Inspect all CB’s, inlets, and outlets to ensure that stormwater systems are fully operational with minimal obstruction. Ensure that swales are free from obstructions, and that biofiltration areas are functioning as per specifications. Electrical / Site Lighting E2. Conduct yearly inspections of all fixtures to ensure that they are operating as per specification. Clean and replace lenses and lamps as required. F. Architectural Elements Park Buildings F1. Complete ongoing inspections of mechanical and electrical systems and seasonal inspections of structures and direct maintenance / repair as required. ( Refer to architectural design drawings/specifications for detailed information and maintenance requirements for park buildings) Canopies & Shade Structures F2. Check for seasonal damage as required. Undertake annual review and inspection of roof and structural supports.

MANAGEMENT PLAN 137 Pathway from Lake Shore Boulevard West into Humber Bay Park West

138 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION & PHASING 8

139 8.1 MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

Phasing The projects identified for implemented strategically over time Large-scale projects implementation in the Master Plan throughout the entire park. Some of These improvements include most are divided into three categories: these projects have previously been of the Master Plan’s most significant small-scale or incremental projects, identified by the TRCA and /or the and substantial recommendations. medium-scale projects and large- City and could be funded through These projects will go the furthest scale projects. Parks and Capital Projects annual in defining the future character of Parks Plan and state of good repair Humber Bay Park and include the Projects are not presented in a priority budgets. implementation of the redefined West sequence but rather as a palette Market Area, the Humber Bay Park of options that can be considered Medium-scale projects East Building Project and the Ponds & subject to a detailed design process These projects are those that will Linear Wetland Reconfiguration and and review by the TRCA and the require project-specific funding as Improvements, among others. City and subject to identification of well as some coordination to ensure collective priorities, funding sources that they are staged to have minimal These projects would require and regulatory and budget approvals. impact on the operation of the park. significant funding and coordination to implement. Small-scale or incremental projects Cost sharing, partnership funding or These are improvements that are resource sharing for implementation not site specific and that can be of these projects may be required

Tree planting and habitat creation in Humber Bay Park West

140 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN Staging Partnerships A number of the projects identified in construction activities during bird Implementation of individual projects the Master Plan are currently funded nesting seasons, where regulations is contingent on TRCA and City and are underway. This presents may require moratoriums on priorities, approvals, additional opportunities to stage related works construction activity, which may consultation process (if required), to take advantage of constructor impact timelines and construction funding and budget approvals from mobilization in a particular area of the schedules. the City and its partners. Park. There are also economies of scale Potential funding or implementation As projects are implemented, that can be achieved if several related partners have been identified for it is important to consider the projects are implemented in close each project. These include the opportunities to stage the succession, reducing the duration TRCA, City departments, other public improvements to ensure that some of disturbance within the Park, and agencies and private or volunteer areas of the park remain usable minimizing costs for mobilization, organizations. and accessible for visitors and that materials and labour. important or sensitive habitats are disturbed as little as possible. The Master Plan identifies projects that could benefit from concurrent Staging of projects should consider implementation. consideration of “in-water”

IMPLEMENTATION & PHASING 141 8.2 SMALL-SCALE & INCREMENTAL PROJECTS

High priority interventions designed to make an impact quickly.

A1. Pathway A3. Shoreline Experiences A5. Habitat Enhancements Improvements This item includes improvements to This item includes incremental This item includes the resurfacing the non-motorized boat launch near improvements to vegetation & realigning of pathways and trails the Market Plaza as well as localized communities throughout the Park, in to meet accessibility requirements. vegetation removal for viewpoints, order to enhance habitat. Improvements can be implemented and improvements to shoreline incrementally as budgets allow and access. A number of habitat enhancement should be considered in conjunction initiatives are currently ongoing and with all medium and large-scale All improvements to the shoreline managed by the TRCA, including projects in the park. itself, including debris removal and the removal of invasive Burdock revetment repairs are the purview of in Humber Bay Park East, and the Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, the TRCA and are not included within management of wetland embayments Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. the scope of this Master Plan. along the Mimico Creek and Humber Bay Park East shoreline. Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, A2. Integrated Park Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. Habitat Enhancements could Signage & Wayfinding be implemented in conjunction with Pathway Improvements (A1), This item includes the Implementation A4. Shoreline Lookouts Improvements to the Dogs Off- of the City’s Parks and Trails Leash Area (B2), with the Ponds & This item includes the construction Wayfinding Strategy including new Linear Wetland Reconfiguration of shoreline lookout structures, elements of interpretation and and Improvements (C6) and the landforms and localized vegetation education throughout the Park. reconfiguration of the Western clearing. Peninsula Parking and Circulation The Park’s wayfinding elements Feature lookouts could be (C7). should be coordinated with adjacent implemented in conjunction with amenities, including the Waterfront Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, Pathway Improvements (A1). Trail and Butterfly Garden in Humber Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. Bay Shores as well as the new Parks Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, and Wayfinding strategy being led by Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. Ravine and Natural Feature Protection A6. Accessible and Urban Forestry. Recreational Nodes

Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, This item includes the construction Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. of recreational nodes and access pathways in Humber Bay Park East.

Two nodes were funded and constructed by the TRCA and completed in the summer of 2018.

Partners: TRCA.

142 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN A6 A1

A3 A2 A6 A5 A1 A5

A2 A1 A4 A2 A1 A1 A3 A5 A5 A5 A2 A1 A1 A2 A5

A2 A1 A5 A4

A4 A6

A3 A1

Legend A4 A1. Pathway Improvements A2. Integrated Park Signage & A5 A1 A3 Wayfinding A3. Shoreline Improvements A3 A4. Feature Lookouts A5. Habitat Enhancements A4 A6. Accessible Recreational Nodes

Small-scale & incremental projects key plan

IMPLEMENTATION & PHASING 143 8.3 MEDIUM-SCALE PROJECTS

Improvements that require funding, coordination and phasing to be implemented in the short to mid term.

B1. Park Shelters and B4. Feature Lookout at B7. Enhanced Marine Structures Humber Bay Park West Amenities This item includes the construction This item includes the construction This item includes the rehabilitation of shade structures and windscreens of a new lookout structure at the of the small boat launch adjacent throughout the Park, as well as any end of the wester peninsula, as to the Market Plaza and will include seasonal or temporary structures. well as pathway improvements and localized removal of debris at the naturalization of the area along the launch site and reconstruction of The installation of new park shelters boat club property line. structures to facilitate the launch can easily be implemented as of non-motorized craft into Mimico stand-alone projects, however Habitat Enhancements (A5) to areas Creek, as well as the construction the construction of shelters in the adjacent to the off-leash area should of a small pick-up and drop-off area Redefined West Market Area (C3) be undertaken concurrently to adjacent to the boat launch. This item and in the Dogs Off-Leash Area (B2) minimize impacts to existing plant also includes the provision of new are important to the success of these and wildlife communities. accessible viewing platforms adjacent upgraded park spaces. to each boat launch, resurfacing of Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, accessible pathways and new site Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. furnishings. Forestry and Recreation), TRCA. Enhanced marine amenities could B5. Humber Bay Park be implemented in conjunction with B2. Dogs Off-Leash Area West Boardwalk the Redefined West Market Area and Improvements Parking Reconfiguration (C3). This item includes the construction This item includes the expansion of a new boardwalk at the shoreline Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, of the off-leash area toward the between the existing boat launch Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. parking lot, reconfiguration of fences, and the Police Marine Unit building and pathways, improvements site in Humber Bay Park West, as well as furnishings, shelters, lighting and new associated access paths and lookout B8. Outdoor Education plantings. platforms at each end. & Nature Observation Habitat Enhancements (A5) to areas The boardwalk could be Amphitheatre adjacent to the off-leash area should implemented in conjunction with This item includes the rehabilitation of be undertaken concurrently to Pathway Improvements (A1). the outdoor amphitheatre in Humber minimize impacts to existing plant Bay Park East and associated seating Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, and wildlife communities. and localized vegetation removals Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. adjacent to the existing water Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, channel. Forestry and Recreation), TRCA, private clubs and volunteers. B6. Air India Memorial The rehabilitation of the amphitheatre Improvements can implemented in conjunction with Pathway Improvements (A1), B3. Children’s Playground This item includes the reconfiguration and resurfacing of pathways and Integrated Park Signage & Wayfinding This item includes the construction seasonal plantings between the two (A2). of a new children’s playground in portions of the memorial, as well as Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, Humber Bay Park West. improved seating and lighting and Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. interpretive signage. Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, Forestry and Recreation); TRCA. Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, Forestry and Recreation); TRCA.

144 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN B8 B6 B1

B1 B6

B1 B7

B1 B7 B3 B1 B5

Legend B4 B2 B1. Park Shelters and Structures B1 B2. Dogs Off-Leash area Improvements B1

Medium-scale projects key plan

IMPLEMENTATION & PHASING 145 8.4 LARGE-SCALE PROJECTS

Improvements that require significant funding & coordination of phasing to be implemented the short to long term.

C1. Mimico Creek Bridge, C4. Humber Bay Park C6. Ponds & Linear Pond Bridges & Lake East Entrance Meadow and Wetland Reconfiguration Shore Boulevard Bridge Parking Reconfiguration and Improvements Improvements This initiative includes the removal Updated interior ponds and channels This item includes rehabilitation of of the existing parking lot and the are included along with habitat area the deck surface and the widening creation of a new entrance drive and enhancements around this area. or twinning of the existing Mimico loop road with reconfigured parking, Creek, as well as the widening of as well as the new pollinator meadow It is recommended that the the south sidewalk and creation of plantings, pathways, site furnishings implementation of the Ponds & a lookout area on the Lake Shore and lighting. Linear Wetland Reconfiguration and Boulevard bridge. It also includes Improvements be staged concurrently the rehabilitation and widening Implementation of the East Entrance with the new Humber Bay Park East of the bridges over the pond Meadow could be staged in Building Project (C5), as construction weirs in Humber Bay Park East to conjunction with the new Humber Bay of the building would be directly accommodate maintenance and Park East Building Project (C5), as the impacted by changes to the north emergency vehicle requirements. two are intrinsically linked. pond edge and adjustments of pond water levels. Partners: City of Toronto Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, (Transportation Services, Parks, Forestry and Recreation), TRCA. Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, Forestry and Recreation), TRCA. Forestry and Recreation), TRCA. C5. Humber Bay Park East C2. New Mouth of Mimico Building Project C7. Reconfigured Western Creek Bridge Peninsula Parking and This item includes the demolition Circulation This item includes the construction of existing building in Humber Bay of a new bridge over the mouth of Park East and the construction of a This item includes the removal of Mimico Creek, south of the existing new building, integrated into the the parking lots on the points of the bridge to complete a pedestrian loop landscaped berm north of the new Western Peninsula, the realignment within the Park Core. recreational pond. of the roadway reconfiguration of parking, as well as the reconstruction Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, It is recommended that the New of the multi-use pathway,upgrades Forestry and Recreation), TRCA. Building be staged concurrently to site furnishings, and site lighting with the Ponds & Linear Wetland along the Western Peninsula. Reconfiguration and Improvements C3. Redefined West (C6), as construction of the building Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, Market Area and Parking would be directly impacted by Forestry and Recreation), TRCA. changes to the north pond edge and Reconfiguration adjustments of pond water levels. Includes the removal of the C8. Humber Bay Park Design and construction of the new northernmost parking lot and creation West Parks Maintenance building is currently funded through of the Market Plaza and Market the City’s Capital Improvements Yard Improvements Green, as well as the reconfiguration budget, and implementation is of existing parking lots to maximize This item includes the possible ongoing. parking spaces. expansion of the maintenance yard, with improvements to the Partners: City of Toronto (Capital Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, existing building to better meet the Improvements, Parks, Forestry and Forestry and Recreation), TRCA. requirements of Parks staff. Recreation), TRCA. Partners: City of Toronto (Parks, Forestry and Recreation).

146 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN C1

C1 C4 C6 C1

C1 C5

C1

C3 C2 C8

Legend C1. Mimico Creek Bridge & Lake Shore Boulevard Bridge Improvements C2. New Mouth of Mimico Creek Bridge C3. Redefined West Market C7 Area and Parking reconfiguration C4. Humber Bay Park East Entrance Meadow and Parking Reconfiguration C5. Humber Bay Park East Building Project C6. Ponds & Linear Wetland Reconfiguration and C7 Improvements C7. Reconfigured Western Peninsula Parking and Circulation C8. Humber Bay Park West Parks Maintenance Yard Improvements

Large-scale projects key plan

IMPLEMENTATION & PHASING 147 View to emerging Humber Bay Shores neighbourhood from Humber Bay Park East

148 HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN