1 Report to Rapport Au: Transportation Committee Comité Des

Report to Rapport au:

Transportation Committee Comité des transports 6 September 2017 / 6 septembre 2017

Submitted on August 22, 2017 Soumis le 22 août 2017

Submitted by Soumis par: Vivi Chi, Manager / Gestionnaire, Transportation Planning / Planification des transports, Transportation Services Department / Direction générale des transports (613) 580-2424 extension / poste 21877, Vivi.Chi@ottawa.ca

Contact Person Personne ressource: Steven Boyle, Senior Project Manager / Gestionnaire principal de projet, Transportation Policy and Networks / Réseaux et politique de transport 613-580-2424 extension / poste 26087, [email protected]

Ward: BARRHAVEN (3); KNOXDALE- File Number: ACS2017-TSD-PLN-0012 MERIVALE (9)

SUBJECT: Woodroffe Avenue, Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road Rail Grade Separation Environmental Assessment Study – Statement of Work; and the Jockvale Road Multi-Use Pathway Rail Grade Separation Environmental Assessment Study – Statement of Work

OBJET: Étude d’évaluation environnementale d’un saut-de-mouton ferroviaire à l’avenue Woodroffe, au Transitway sud-ouest et au chemin Fallowfield – Énoncé des travaux; et étude d’évaluation environnementale d’un saut-de-mouton ferroviaire au sentier polyvalent du chemin Jockvale - Énoncé des travaux. 2

REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Transportation Committee approve:

1. The Statement of Work for the Woodroffe Avenue, Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road Rail Grade Separation Environmental Assessment Study, as outlined in this report and detailed in Document 1; and,

2. The Statement of Work for the Jockvale Road Multi-Use Pathway Rail Grade Separation Environmental Assessment Study, as outlined in this report and detailed in Document 2.

RECOMMANDATIONS DU RAPPORT

Que le Comite des transports approuve :

1. L’énoncé des travaux pour l’étude d’évaluation environnementale d’un saut-de-mouton ferroviaire a l’avenue Woodroffe, au Transitway sud-ouest et au chemin Fallowfield, tel que décrit dans le présent rapport et comme l’explique en détail le document 1; et,

2. L’énoncé des travaux pour l’étude d’évaluation environnementale d’un saut-de-mouton ferroviaire au sentier polyvalent du chemin Jackvale, tel que décrit dans le présent rapport et comme l’explique en détail le document 2.

BACKGROUND

In June 2017, the Transportation Committee and Council received the Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study which had been undertaken in response to one of the recommendations of the Transportation Safety Board’s report on the 2013 rail and bus collision in Barrhaven. The Board had recommended that the City reconsider the need for rail grade separation at Woodroffe Avenue, the Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road. The City agreed, and in partnership with VIA Rail, undertook the study which additionally included review of the at-grade crossing locations at Merivale Road and Jockvale Road.

Council directed the establishment of a Barrhaven Rail Safety Program. The mandate of this Program directs that funding be sought in the draft 2018 Capital Budget to undertake Environmental Assessment (EA) studies for the rail-grade separations as Woodroffe Avenue, the Southeast Transitway and Fallowfield Road as well as for the 3 multi-use pathway along Jockvale Road at the rail crossing. The subject locations are shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: EA crossing locations

As there is a desire to move forward expeditiously with these Barrhaven grade separation EAs, this report seeks that the Transportation Committee approve the Statements of Work (SOW) in advance of retaining consultant services and initiating the studies.

These EA studies will be conducted as Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Schedule C studies in accordance with the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. The Statements of Work reports outline the scope, methodology and deliverables of the EA studies for Transportation Committee’s consideration. Details of the SOWs are described in Document 1 and Document 2.

DISCUSSION

The Statements of Work are for two separate new Environmental Assessments Studies for rail grade separation crossings at: 1) Woodroffe Avenue, the Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road, and, 2) the multi-use pathway along Jockvale Road. 4

1. Woodroffe, Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield – Overpass

The 2017 Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study recommends that rail grade separations are warranted at all studied locations and that their implementation should be phased in an order of priority starting with Woodroffe and the Southwest Transitway and next Fallowfield Road. The study foresees overpasses being constructed to carry Woodroffe Avenue and the adjacent Southwest Transitway over the rail line and also an overpass being built to carry Fallowfield Road over the rail line and the adjacent Southwest Transitway. This recommendation of overpasses differs from the dated 1997 Southwest Transitway Extension (Baseline Station to Strandherd Drive) Environmental Assessment Study which had as its recommended plan underpass solutions. This would have meant Woodroffe Avenue and the Southwest Transitway to be grade separated under the rail line and Fallowfield Road also to be grade separated under the Southwest Transitway and the rail line.

In 2002 and 2003, geotechnical investigations were undertaken at these crossing locations to determine the general soil and groundwater conditions. Those studies identified significant problems with the underpass option due to soil conditions and the hydrogeological properties of the bedrock. Very significant risk to property and safety of persons both during construction and post-construction were revealed and decisions were made at that time not to advance with underpass grade separation.

Because a significant amount of time has passed since the original EA was completed in 1997, there is a need to update the environmental inventory and existing conditions, and to develop a new functional design for the overpasses. The original EA was undertaken through the Individual Environment Assessment (IEA) process, and given changes to provincial EA processes, it is more expeditious to undertake a new EA study (Schedule C) rather than pursuing the route of an Addendum to the existing IEA which would incur a long approval process.

1.1 Major Tasks

Key tasks for the EA study would include the following:

 Research and review recent relevant information, studies and reports such as: geotechnical findings undertaken for this study area, rail safety findings in regard to the grade rail crossings, the National Safety Board’s accident investigation report, etc.; 5

 Review the technological changes over the last number of years, e.g. use of lightweight fills, that might impact the design and construction constraints of overpass/underpass construction in the study area;

 Develop design alternatives for grade separation;

 Assess and evaluate environmental implications:

o Natural environment features;

o Geotechnical conditions;

o Stormwater management and hydrology;

o Cumulative impacts on the Greenbelt; and,

o Adjacent land use.

 Develop mitigation measures;

 Develop a Recommended Plan for the Woodroffe Avenue, Transitway and Fallowfield grade separation (including functional design);

 Identify capital and operating costs for implementation;

 Engage with VIA Rail throughout the EA process;

 Consult with the National Capital Commission, community groups and stakeholders; and,

 Develop documentation.

The EA study is expected to be completed within approximately 24 months of the contract award.

2. Jockvale Road Multi-Use Pathway – Underpass

There is an existing multi-use pathway (MUP) located along the southwest side of Jockvale Road. It is used by pedestrians and cyclists going to schools, nearby places of worship and other destinations in the community. This MUP crosses the VIA Rail line where 19 trains pass by on an average week day. The number is expected to increase in the future with the 2021 projection being 21 daily trains. There is a possibility that the increase could be 31 daily trains if the high frequency rail project that is currently being 6 looked into by VIA Rail and federal agencies is approved. There is a concern for the safety of these MUP users who walk or cycle across this rail crossing.

The Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study recommended an order of priority of grade separation, based on the greatest exposure of vehicle/train conflict, for the five studied at-grade crossing locations. If the implementation order is followed, Jockvale Road would be the last to be grade separated. Securing construction funding, estimated at $430 M (2017 dollars) from senior levels of government and VIA Rail for all five locations would take some time. As a result of these issues it is likely that the Jockvale Road roadway grade separation would be some years away and an interim grade separation for the MUP only is sought for implementation at an early date. The proposed EA study will examine this. Included will be review of how a grade separation of the MUP would fit into the longer term plan for road grade separation in the form of a roadway underpass for this location. Ideally a MUP grade separation could be constructed such that there is minimal or no throwaway when the road underpass is implemented. In Barrhaven there are grade separated MUPs under the rail line at three other locations: the closed south end of Cedarview Road; the connection between Conway Street; and, Valiant Street, at Longfields Station.

Key tasks for this EA study include the following:

 Confirm existing and expected future pedestrian and cyclist usage (travel demand) along the Jockvale Road MUP;

 Review and assess how existing and future MUPs along the rail corridor would link with the grade separated Jockvale Road MUP and with, in the longer term, the grade separated roadway;

 Analysis of grade separation options for the MUP;

 Develop several MUP grade separation location options, with consideration to such factors as: the existing and future rail line MUPs, the future road underpass and the impacts on the land and redevelopment potential for the private church property at the southeast quadrant of the rail/road crossing;

 Assess and evaluate environmental implications:

o Natural environment features;

o Geotechnical conditions;

o Stormwater management and hydrology; and, 7

o Adjacent land use.

 Develop mitigation measures;

 Develop a Recommended Plan for the MUP grade crossing (including functional design);

 Identify capital and operating costs for implementation;

 Engage with VIA Rail throughout the EA process;

 Consult with community groups and stakeholders; and,

 Develop documentation.

The EA study is expected to be completed within approximately 18 months of the contract award.

RURAL IMPLICATIONS

This report does not have a direct impact on the rural area of the city.

CONSULTATION

Consultation will include meetings with key stakeholders through Agency Consultation Groups, Public Consultation Groups, and, if required, a Business Consultation Group as appropriate, including consultation with Indigenous People. Consultation with the broader general public will happen primarily through Open Houses. Dedicated project web pages for these two projects will also be set up to share study information.

COMMENTS BY THE WARD COUNCILLOR(S)

Councillor Jan Harder provided the following comments:

I want to thank my colleagues for supporting this important work. Having received the VIA/City of Ottawa Rail Study particular to the Merivale Rd and Barrhaven VIA crossings recently we are all aware of the challenge before us to undertake this work. It will cost in the area of $.5B and we know our tax base cannot afford this alone. This work carves out the highest need crossings and undertakes an environment assessment of such. Having these crossings “shovel ready” will benefit Ottawa as potential funding partner opportunities arise.

Councillor Keith Egli provided the following comments: 8

I am aware of this report. I concur with the recommendations in this report and would like to thank staff for their efforts.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE(S) COMMENTS

Consultation with the Accessibility Advisory Committee will be undertaken through the EA process.

LEGAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no legal impediments to approving the recommendations as outlined in this report.

RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS

The known difficult geotechnical conditions at the Woodroffe Avenue, Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road locations and the unverified geotechnical conditions at the Jockvale Road MUP location may, upon further investigation through these EAs, result in expensive or alternative design solutions being needed to achieve the rail grade separations sought.

The Woodroffe, Transitway and Fallowfield locations will require the involvement and cooperation of the National Capital Commission regarding impact on the Greenbelt lands for road and transitway detours during construction of the rail grade separation and in part for the permanent location of the grade separations.

Depending on where the Jockvale Road MUP is located, there could be a need for private land acquisition for the grade separation and/or stormwater management purposes which may result in increased project costs.

ASSET MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS

There are no Asset Management implications for this report at this time.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Funds required for the Woodroffe Avenue, Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road Rail Grade Separation EA Study and the Jockvale Road Multi-Use Pathway Rail Grade Separation EA Study will be included in the 2018 Budget submission for Council consideration and approval. 9

ACCESSIBILITY IMPACTS

There are no accessibility implications in this report. As part of the development of the functional design, the City’s Accessibility Design Standards will be applied.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS

The EA study will examine and evaluate the project’s effects on the social, cultural, physical, and natural environments within the study area as well as the downstream impacts. Appropriate mitigation measures will be developed and post mitigation environmental impacts will also be determined.

TERM OF COUNCIL PRIORITIES

The recommendation contained herein aims to support the following Strategic Directions adopted by Council:

Transportation and Mobility

TM2 Provide and promote infrastructure to support safe mobility choices.

TM4 Improve safety for all road users.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

Document 1 – Woodroffe Avenue, Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road Rail Grade Separation Environmental Assessment Study – Statement of Work

Document 2 - Jockvale Road Multi-Use Pathway Grade Separated Rail Crossing Environmental Assessment Study – Statement of Work

DISPOSITION

Following the Transportation Committee’s approval of the attached Statement of Works, the Transportation Services Department will initiate the process to retain consulting firms to assist the City with these Environmental Assessment Studies. A call for proposals will be undertaken with the assistance of Supply Services. Once the consultants have been selected the EA Studies will proceed as described.

Document 1

Woodroffe Avenue, Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road Rail Grade Separation Environmental Assessment Study – Statement of Work

1.0 Introduction

The City of Ottawa is the proponent of a Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Schedule C study to develop the functional designs for grade separation overpasses for the Southwest Transitway, Woodroffe Avenue and Fallowfield Road where they cross the Smiths Falls Subdivision rail line in Barrhaven.

2.0 Planning Context

Figure 1 shows the subject rail crossings found at two corners of the triangular area formed by Woodroffe Avenue, Fallowfield Road and the Smiths Falls Subdivision rail line. Also located there are the Southwest Transitway, Fallowfield Transit Station and Park and Ride lot and VIA Rail’s Fallowfield station. Most of this area is bordered by agricultural lands of the National Capital Commission’s Greenbelt.

Figure 1 – Rail Grade Crossing Locations 11

In June of 2017 the Transportation Committee and City Council received the Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study which examined the feasibility of and costing for grade separation of four roadways and the Southwest Transitway where they currently have at grade crossings of the VIA Rail line (Smiths Falls Subdivision). The study was undertaken subsequent to a recommendation from the Rail Safety Board in its report on the VIA Rail and OCTranspo train and bus collision that occurred in 2013. The Board recommended that the City reconsider the need for rail grade separation at the Southwest Transitway, Woodroffe Avenue and Fallowfield Road. The City agreed, and in partnership with VIA Rail, undertook the study which additionally included review of the at-grade crossing locations at Merivale Road and Jockvale Road. The June 2017 study recommends that two sets of overpasses should be constructed one to carry Woodroffe Avenue and the Southwest Transitway over the rail line and the second to carry Fallowfield Road over the rail line and the Southwest Transitway. This recommendation differs from the dated 1997 Southwest Transitway Extension – Baseline Station to Strandherd Drive – Environmental Assessment Study which had as its recommended plan underpass solutions. The would have meant Woodroffe Avenue and the Southwest Transitway be grade separated under the rail line and Fallowfield Road also be grade separated under the Southwest Transitway and the rail line.

In 2002 and 2003 geotechnical investigations were undertaken at these two crossing locations to determine the general soil and groundwater conditions. Those studies identified significant problems with the underpass option due to soil conditions and the hydrogeological properties of the bedrock. Very significant risk to property and safety of persons both during construction and post-construction were highlighted and decisions were made at that time not to advance with underpass grade separation.

The overpass option is currently recommended in the Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study. That Study was a high-level planning effort and the main purpose of this Statement of Work is to set out the project and major tasks for a new EA to develop the functional design (and detours) for the construction of the overpasses.

3.0 Project Scope and Major Tasks

3.1 Study Area

The study area (Figure 2) illustrates the general study area that extends from Black Rapids Creek and its tributaries in the north, to the Fallowfield and Woodroffe intersection in the southeast and westward to the Barrhaven Crossing shopping plaza along Fallowfield Road west of the rail crossing. However, some tasks may require 12 examination of a broader area beyond these limits to address environmental impacts, operational issues and to coordinate with relevant on-going studies and projects.

Figure 2 – Study Area

3.2 Timing

The study is expected to be completed within approximately 24 months from award of the contract.

3.3 Coordination with existing and concurrent studies

The EA study will take into consideration relevant completed studies as well as analysis and preliminary findings of any ongoing transportation, development and infrastructure projects that could influence the direction and/or conclusions of the Study. These include:

 Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study (2017); 13

 Transportation Safety Board of Canada Railway Investigation Report R13T0192 (2015);

 Detailed Safety Assessment Report - VIA Rail Canada and City of Ottawa (2014);

 Additional Geotechnical Investigation Proposed CN Rail Grade Separation Alternatives at Woodroffe Avenue / Transitway and Impact of Simultaneous Depressurizing at the Fallowfield Road and Woodroffe Avenues Sites, Ottawa, Ontario (2003);

 Fallowfield Road – Cedarview Road to Woodroffe Avenue – Environmental Study Report (1997);

 Southwest Transitway Extension – Baseline Station to Strandherd Drive – Environmental Assessment Report (1997);

 Canada’s Capital Greenbelt Master Plan, National Capital Commission (2013);

 Joint Study to Assess Cumulative Effects of Transportation Infrastructure on the National Capital Greenbelt (2013);

 Ottawa Cycling Plan (2013); and,

 Official Plan Amendments #150 and #180 regarding housing and employment growth projections.

3.4 Major Tasks

Key tasks for this EA study include the following:

 Review and draw upon recent relevant information, studies and report such as: geotechnical findings undertaken for this study area, rail safety findings in regard to the grade rail crossings, the National Safety Board’s accident investigation report, etc.;

 Review the technological changes over the last number of years, e.g. use of light fills, that might impact the design and construction constraints of overpass/underpass construction in the study area;

 Develop design alternatives for grade separation;

 Assess and evaluate environmental implications:

o Natural environment features; 14

o Geotechnical conditions;

o Stormwater management and hydrology;

o Cumulative impacts on the Greenbelt; and,

o Adjacent land use.

 Develop mitigation measures;

 Develop a Recommended Plan for the Woodroffe Avenue, Transitway and Fallowfield rail grade separations - including functional design, and property requirements;

 Identify capital and operating costs for implementation;

 Engage with VIA Rail throughout the EA process;

 Consult with the National Capital Commission, community groups and stakeholders;

 Develop documentation; and,

 Follow-up during the 30-day public review of the Environmental Study Report with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change as required.

4.0 Planning and Environmental Assessment

The EA study comprises the following tasks:

4.1 Need and Justification

This exercise will reconfirm the desirability of advancing with grade separation of the rail line at the crossings with Woodroffe Avenue, the Southwest Transitway and Fallowfield Road. It will consider the existing levels of rail, roadway and Transitway traffic and expect future increases. The challenges of difficult geotechnical conditions will be a major consideration in the justification for overpass or underpass solutions.

4.2 Environmental Inventory / Existing Conditions

An inventory of the existing social, cultural, economic, physical and natural environments within the study area will be compiled. This inventory will consider all available background material and will be supplemented by on-site surveys and/or detailed studies. The inventory must be detailed enough to enable the analysis of effects arising from alternatives considered in this study. 15

In general, the inventory will identify and describe those aspects of the environment that could potentially affect, or be affected by, the undertaking. Some of the specific aspects of the environment associated with this project include inventory of:

 Greenbelt’s agricultural lands and greenspace water courses;

 Viewscape of/from the Greenbelt prior to any grade separated facilities;

 Adjacent private property and the neighbouring community;

 Current road, transit, pedestrian, cycling and multi-use pathway corridors/routes;

 The rail corridor and its operation;

 Current stormwater drainage patterns;

 Detailed subsurface (geotechnical) conditions;

 Heritage and archaeological conditions;

 Utilities including water, sanitary, hydro, gas, cable, phone and fibre optic; and,

 Noise and vibration.

The complete inventory will be clearly described and documented within the Environmental Study Report.

4.3 Develop Design Alternatives

The study will identify and evaluate various design alternatives for the preferred solution. Alignment and cross-section design alternatives will be identified based on consideration of constraints within the study area, input from the public and approval agencies, landowners, as well as accepted guidelines, standards and practices.

The various design alternatives will consider:

 Impact on Greenbelt lands and private lands;

 Road network and pathway network connectivity, including detours during construction;

 The location of the planned road and Transitway grade separation and the needed construction detours of the roadway and Transitway; 16

 The rail corridor and its future use;

 The Complete Streets framework;

 Geotechnical considerations;

 Stormwater management;

 Utility location and relocations;

 Noise, vibration and air quality;

 Operational considerations;

 Overall cost affordability;

 Constructability and staging; and,

 Landscaping and urban design features where appropriate.

Additional field investigations, surveys, test pits and boreholes will be taken as necessary to document the scope and potential impact of the design alternatives.

4.4 Evaluation Criteria and Evaluation Process

The evaluation criteria and methodology will be developed to assess the potential effects of the design alternatives of the preferred solution. Mitigation measures and associated implications, such as cost of mitigation, will be identified and considered in the evaluation process. The study will clearly identify the initial impacts of each design alternative as well as the net post-mitigation effects and enhancement opportunities using quantifiable indicators and measures wherever possible. To ensure that all impacts are appropriately evaluated, the following issues will be addressed:

 Transportation Service and Existing Infrastructure:

o Impact on the existing and future road, transit, pedestrian and cycling networks;

o Impact on the rail corridor both existing and future; and,

o Impact on utilities and existing infrastructure.

 Natural Environment:

o Impact on agricultural lands and greenspace water courses; 17

o Impact on groundwater and surface stormwater drainage; and,

o Impact on contaminated lands.

 Social Environment:

o Impact on adjacent land uses;

o Impact on air quality;

o Impact on noise and vibration levels;

o Heritage and archaeological matters; and,

o Urban design including landscape and streetscape plans.

 Economic Environment:

o Capital and operating costs.

4.5 Recommended Plan

Following the evaluation of alternative solutions and after determining all necessary mitigation measures to minimize the adverse impacts of the project, a technically preferred plan will be developed.

The technically preferred plan will then be developed to a sufficient level of detail as required to produce a functional design plan that is adequate for submissions for project approval and to establish a complete project scope, budget, and implementation schedule.

This Recommended Plan will include but is not limited to:

 A detailed written description of the undertaking including the design parameters;

 Functional design drawings (1:500 scale, plan and profile) for the preferred alignment with geo-referenced horizontal alignment; vertical profile; grading; drainage; and property envelope;

 Cross-section drawings for typical sections as well as critical areas;

 Landscape and urban design plans;

 Storm water management requirements; 18

 Property needs/acquisition plan;

 Implementation/staging plan and preliminary detour plan during construction;

 Infrastructure implementation/staging plan such as municipal servicing, utility co-ordination and rehabilitation of roads;

 Potential mitigation measures with a commitment to compliance monitoring during project implementation; and,

 Project cost estimate.

The Recommended Plan, including mitigation measures, will clearly identify and set out the requirements and timing for all subsequent approvals required to proceed with construction of the project.

4.6 Costing

Developing an accurate project budget is an essential component of this study as it will contribute to the City’s short and long range capital budget forecasting and development charges strategy. The project budget will also form the basis for funding discussions with senior levels of government and VIA Rail. The baseline budget will be developed using a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) format in current dollars, and include contingency allowances, as well as cost for detouring during construction if so required. The baseline budget will also follow the City’s Council approved Project Delivery Review process.

4.7 Project Deliverables

The deliverables for the study include:

 Project capital and operating cost estimates, in Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) format and following the City’s Council-approved Project Delivery Review process for cost estimating;

 Clearly defined plan identifying City right-of-way and property required for the recommended plan;

 Noise, Vibration and Air Quality Report;

 Geotechnical Report;

 Consultation Summary Report; 19

 Written and graphical content for all public notices related to the study;

 Open House and Consultation Group presentation display and information materials, handouts and signage;

 Project web page information in accessible format;

 Functional design drawings (1:500 scale) of the recommended plan, including plans and profiles for recommended alignments, structure general arrangement drawings, utility relocation details, storm water management plans, landscape design plans, supporting infrastructure and property requirement plans; and,

 Project Implementation/Staging Plan, which will identify all future approval requirements including those for property acquisitions and easements and other property related matters.

4.8 Environmental Study Report

The Environmental Study Report (ESR) will be prepared to document the entire study process including consultation, the recommended design and any appropriate mitigation plans, amending procedure, costing, implementation and staging plan, and commitments to future action, including external approvals known to be required.

The final ESR, incorporating all pertinent comments, will be prepared and placed on public record for a minimum 30-day review period. An FTP site for the public to access and download the ESR will be made available during the 30-day review period.

5.0 Consultation

Consultation will involve stakeholders, City Advisory Committees, community groups, property owners, businesses, approval agencies, Indigenous People, and special interest groups. Early in the study process, stakeholders will be identified through consultation with the Ward Councillor.

The consultation strategy will consist of meetings with key stakeholders through an Agency Consultation Group (ACG), Public Consultation Group (PCG), and the general public through Open Houses. The membership, roles and responsibilities of each Consultation Group will be defined prior to the first meeting. Specific aspects of the consultation program are summarized below. 20

5.1 Agency Consultation Group

An Agency Consultation Group (ACG) will be formed to address the full range of technical issues and to comment on all of the special studies required to fully assess the various alternatives. The ACG will also ensure that the City is following the procedures, legislation and addressing appropriate policies. Members will include representatives primarily from government agencies and approval bodies, including the National Capital Commission. The ACG will meet at key stages throughout the study. Direct one-on-one consultation with the NCC and other Agency groups may be necessary as specific issues arise during the course of the study.

5.2 Public/Business Consultation Group

A Public Consultation Group (PCG) will be formed to enable community groups, business owners, special interest groups, the City’s Advisory Committees, and adjacent property owners to provide direct input to the study, advising and commenting on local issues and concerns.

5.3 Indigenous People

The Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada will be contacted to review any Indigenous People issues or ongoing claims within the study area. Recognizing the federal role in this regard, the study will ensure appropriate co ordination with federal authorities pursuant to the federal guidelines on “Aboriginal Consultation and Accommodation (March 2011 update).” Direct consultation with affected Indigenous People will also be carried out as appropriate.

5.4 Notifications

The public will be notified of the EA study commencement, all Public Open Houses, and the submission of the ESR for Ministry approval. Notifications will be sent out at appropriate stages in the Study, and each announcement will take the following forms:

 Advertisements in local community newspapers (EMC, Le Droit); and,

 The project web site on the City’s web portal.

Additional notifications will be undertaken, as required, in accordance with provincial EA regulations. 21

5.5 Open Houses

A minimum of two Open Houses will be held to present and obtain feedback on:  Existing conditions;

 Alternative corridor options;

 Results of the evaluation process; and,

 Recommended plan.

Bilingual staff will be present during all Open House meetings and all material presented at these meetings will be in both official languages.

5.6 Project Mailing List

A Master Mailing List for the project will be established and updated throughout the course of the project. The Mailing List will be updated via Open House attendance, general enquires, e-mails and other forms of consultation.

5.7 Project Web Page

A Project Information Web Page will be established for this study on the City’s website. The purpose of the Web Page will be to inform the public of the progress and interim findings of the study and upcoming meetings or activities, and to provide a point of access for public consultation and feedback. The web information will conform to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

To assist in providing information to the public, a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) will be prepared to provide answers to common questions raised during the study. The FAQ document will be established early in the study process and will be updated regularly. It will also be posted on the project web site.

5.8 Transportation Committee and Council Meetings

The final study findings will be presented to Transportation Committee and Council for approval.

Document 2

Jockvale Road Multi-Use Pathway Rail Grade Separation Environmental Assessment Study – Statement of Work

1.0 Introduction

The City of Ottawa is the proponent of a Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Schedule C study to develop a functional design for the grade separated crossing of the existing multi-use pathway along Jockvale Road where its crosses the Smiths Falls Subdivision rail line in Barrhaven.

2.0 Planning Context

In June of 2017 Transportation Committee and City Council received the Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study which examined the feasibility of and costing for grade separation of four roadways and the Southwest Transitway where they currently have at grade crossings of the VIA Rail line (Smiths Falls Subdivision). The study was undertaken subsequent to a recommendation from the Rail Safety Board in its report on the VIA Rail and OCTranspo train and bus collision that occurred in 2013. The Board recommended that the City reconsider the need for rail grade separation at the Southwest Transitway, Woodroffe Avenue and Fallowfield Road. The City agreed, and in partnership with VIA Rail, undertook the study which additionally included review of the at-grade crossing locations at Merivale Road and Jockvale Road. In the report to Transportation Committee on this study it was stated that there would be a substantial cost of approximately $430M for grade separation at all these locations and that in order for these projects to fit within the City’s long-range financial plan and affordability model, partnership funding from the federal and provincial governments, and potentially VIA Rail, would be required. The report noted that the projects would have to be phased over time with a prioritization of order of implementation. Prioritization could be based on the greatest exposure of vehicle/train conflict which would result in an implementation order, from first to last, of: Woodroffe Avenue and the Southwest Transitway, Fallowfield Road, Merivale Road and Jockvale Road.

Given these factors of large costs, need to obtain funding and prioritization order it would likely mean that Jockvale Road, a collector roadway with lower traffic volumes than the other roads, would only see the grade separation construction occurring quite some time in the future. 23

It was additionally observed that at Jockvale Road the adjacent multi-use pathway (MUP) on the southwest side of the roadway is currently used by many residents going to and from school, places of worship and other destinations. These pedestrians and cyclists using the MUP cross the rail line where on an average weekday 19 trains travel through. It is expected that number of trains in the future will increase with the 2021 projection being 21 daily trains. It is possible that there will be 31 daily trains if the high frequency rail project that is currently being looked into by VIA Rail and federal agencies is approved. Higher still train numbers are predicted for 2031.

There is a concern for the safety of these pedestrians and cyclists who use this Jockvale Road MUP as it crosses the VIA Rail line with its train traffic. The safety of these persons is a key consideration in undertaking this EA that will determine if a grade separation, would be appropriate. The EA study’s preparation will also require an understanding as to how such a grade separation of the MUP would fit into the longer term plan for road grade separation in the form of a roadway underpass for this location. Ideally this MUP grade separation could be constructed such that there is minimal or no throwaway when the road underpass is later built.

Elsewhere in Barrhaven a number of MUP underpasses of the rail line have been constructed over the years to allow the safe crossing of the rail line by persons of all ages and mobility levels who are traveling by foot, bicycle or similar modes. Examples are found at: the closed south end of Cedarview Road, the connection between Conway Street and Valiant Street, and, at Longfields Station. This same level of security is sought for those residents and visitors along this section of the Jockvale Road MUP.

3.0 Project Scope and Major Tasks

3.1 Study Area

The study area (Figure 1) includes Jockvale Road in the vicinity of the Smiths Falls Subdivision crossing. This study area is large enough to encompass review of MUP connections existing or planned along the rail line that lead to/from the Jockvale Road MUP. However, some tasks may require examination of a broader area beyond these limits to address environmental impacts, operational issues and to coordinate with relevant on-going studies and projects.

Figure 1 – Study Area

3.2 Timing

The study is expected to be completed within approximately 18 months from award of the contract.

3.3 Coordination with existing and concurrent studies

 Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study (2017);

 Detailed Safety Assessment Report - VIA Rail Canada and City of Ottawa (2014);

 Barrhaven VIA Rail Multi-Use Pathway Functional Design Report – City of Ottawa (2015);

 Ottawa Cycling Plan (2013); and, 25

 Official Plan Amendments #150 and #180 regarding housing and employment growth projections.

3.4 Major Tasks

Key tasks for this EA study include the following:

 Confirm existing and expected future pedestrian and cyclist usage (travel demand) along the Jockvale Road MUP;

 Review and assess how existing and future MUPs along the rail corridor would link with the grade separated Jockvale Road MUP and with, in the longer term, the grade separated roadway;

 Analysis grade separation options for the MUP;

 Assess and evaluate environmental implications:

o Natural environment features;

o Geotechnical conditions;

o Stormwater management and hydrology; and,

o Adjacent land use.

 Develop mitigation measures;

 Develop a Recommended Plan for the MUP grade crossing (including functional design);

 Identify capital and operating costs for implementation;

 Engage with VIA Rail throughout the EA process;

 Consult with community groups and stakeholders;

 Develop documentation; and, 26

 Follow-up during the 30-day public review of the Environmental Study Report with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change as required.

4.0 Planning and Environmental Assessment

The EA study comprises the following tasks:

4.1 Need and Justification

Safety of pedestrians and cyclists at this rail and MUP crossing is a prime consideration for this proposed grade separation of the MUP and this should be validated. The Barrhaven and Merivale Road Rail Grade Separation Study determined that a roadway grade separation of Jockvale Road is recommended based on the existing and future volumes of motor vehicles and trains and that an underpass solution would provide for the passage of motorized vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. The EA study would examine the need and justification for advancing the provision of such an underpass facility but only for pedestrians and cyclists on the MUP on the southwest side of the roadway. It may be able to plan such a facility so that there is minimal or no throwaway when the later road underpass is constructed. A consequence of undertaking this EA study will be the additional substantial benefits of obtaining geotechnical information for this location that is currently lacking, better determining of the road underpass location and the land requirements needed for both it and this MUP underpass, and, understanding how to address the stormwater management needs for both the MUP underpass and the later road underpass.

4.2 Environmental Inventory / Existing Conditions

 Green spaces and green corridors;

 Adjacent private property and the neighbouring community; 27

 Current and future road, transit, pedestrian, cycling and multi-use pathway corridors/routes;

 The rail corridor and future operation of the corridor;

 Current stormwater drainage patterns;

 Subsurface (geotechnical) conditions;

 Heritage and archaeological conditions;

 Utilities including water, sanitary, hydro, gas, cable, phone and fibre optic; and,

 Noise and vibration.

The complete inventory will be clearly described and documented within the Environmental Study Report.

4.3 Develop Design Alternatives

The various design alternatives will consider:

 Connection to other existing and future MUPs;  The location of the planned road underpass and the needed construction detours of the roadway and the rail line;  Extent of impacts on adjacent private lands;  Geotechnical considerations;  Stormwater management;  Utility location and relocations;  Noise and vibration;  Operational considerations;  Overall cost affordability;  Constructability and staging; and,  Landscaping and urban design features where appropriate. 28

Additional field investigations, surveys, test pits and boreholes will be taken as necessary to document the scope and potential impact of the design alternatives. Such geological investigations shall not be focused only on the southwest of Jockvale Road where the MUP is located but shall include the whole of the location where the road underpass of the rail line would later be constructed.

4.4 Evaluation Criteria and Evaluation Process

 Transportation Service and Existing Infrastructure: o Impact on the existing and future road, transit, pedestrian and cycling network;

o Impact on existing and future MUP connections;

o Impact on the rail corridor; and,

o Impact on utilities and existing infrastructure.

 Natural Environment: o Impact on green space and green corridors; and,

o Impact on groundwater and surface stormwater drainage.

 Social Environment: o Impact on adjacent land uses;

o Impact on air quality, noise and vibration levels;

o Heritage and archaeological matters; and,

o Urban design including landscape and streetscape plans.

 Economic Environment: o Capital and operating costs. 29

4.5 Recommended Plan

This Recommended Plan will include but is not limited to:

 A detailed written description of the undertaking including the design parameters;

 Functional design drawings (1:500 scale, plan and profile) for the preferred alignment with geo-referenced horizontal alignment; vertical profile; grading; drainage; and property envelope;

 Cross-section drawings for typical sections as well as critical areas;

 Landscape and urban design plans;

 Storm water management requirements;

 Property needs/acquisition plan;

 Implementation/staging plan and preliminary detour plan during construction;

 Infrastructure implementation/staging plan such as municipal servicing, utility co-ordination and rehabilitation of roads;

 Potential mitigation measures with a commitment to compliance monitoring during project implementation; and,

 Project cost estimate (capital and operating).

The Recommended Plan, including mitigation measures, will clearly identify and set out the requirements and timing for all subsequent approvals required to proceed with construction of the project. 30

4.6 Costing

Developing an accurate project budget is an essential component of this study as it will contribute to the City’s short and long range capital budget forecasting and development charges strategy. The project budget will also form the basis for funding discussions with senior levels of government. The baseline budget will be developed using a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) format in current dollars, and include contingency allowances, as well as cost for detouring during construction is so required. The baseline budget will also follow the City’s Council approved Project Delivery Review process.

4.7 Project Deliverables

The deliverables for the study include:

 Project capital and operating cost estimates, in Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) format and following the City’s Council-approved Project Delivery Review process for cost estimating;

 Clearly defined plan identifying City right-of-way and property required for the recommended plan;

 Geotechnical Report;

 Consultation Summary Report;

 Written and graphical content for all public notices related to the study;

 Open House and Consultation Group presentation display and information materials, handouts and signage;

 Project web page information in accessible format;

 Project Implementation/Staging Plan, which will identify all future approval requirements including those for property acquisitions and easements and other property related matters. 31

4.8 Environmental Study Report

An Environmental Study Report (ESR) will be prepared to document the entire study process including consultation, the recommended design and any appropriate mitigation plans, amending procedure, costing, implementation and staging plan, and commitments to future action, including external approvals known to be required.

5.0 Consultation

5.1 Agency Consultation Group

An Agency Consultation Group (ACG) will be formed to address the full range of technical issues and to comment on all of the special studies required to fully assess the various alternatives. The ACG will also ensure that the City is following the procedures, legislation and addressing appropriate policies. Members will include representatives primarily from government agencies and approval bodies. The ACG will meet at key stages throughout the study. Direct one-on-one consultation with other Agency groups may be necessary as specific issues arise during the course of the study.

5.2 Public Consultation Group

A Public Consultation Group (PCG) will be formed to enable community groups, special interest groups, the City’s Advisory Committees, and adjacent property owners to provide direct input to the study, advising and commenting on local issues and concerns. 32

5.3 Indigenous People

5.4 Notifications

 Advertisements in local community newspapers (EMC, Le Droit); and,

 The project web site on the City’s web portal.

Additional notifications will be undertaken, as required, in accordance with provincial EA regulations.

5.5 Open Houses

A minimum of two Open Houses will be held to present and obtain feedback on:  Existing conditions;

 Alternative corridor options;

 Results of the evaluation process; and,

 Recommended plan.

Bilingual staff will be present during all Open House meetings and all material presented at these meetings will be in both official languages.

5.6 Project Mailing List

5.7 Project Web Page

5.8 Transportation Committee and Council Meetings

The final study findings will be presented to Transportation Committee and Council for approval.