MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
SCHEDULE B: PROJECT FILE UPDATE
BALMORAL STREET RECONSTRUCTION
Prepared by:
Hatch Mott MacDonald
301 - 200 S. Syndicate Avenue
Thunder Bay, Ontario
P7E 1C9
(807) 623-3449 (phone)
(807) 623-5925 (fax)
January 2016
353364
City of Thunder Bay
Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.
Introduction
The City of Thunder Bay initiated a Class Environmental Assessment for the Balmoral Street
corridor between the Neebing/McIntyre Floodway and Beverly Street to address concerns with
a deteriorated roadway condition, drainage, provide intersection improvements for the
Balmoral Street & Harbour Expressway, Balmoral Street & Sibley/Hewitson and the Balmoral
Street & Amber/Alloy intersections as these intersections are currently operating under an
undesirable level of service, and integrate the City’s Active Transportation multi-use trail
network as the existing network is incomplete between the north and south section of Balmoral.
2.
Class Environmental Assessment Process
This project is being planned as a Schedule ‘B’ municipal transportation project in accordance
with the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA 2011 version). A key component of
the Class EA process is to inform and consult with the public and concerned agencies.
According to the Class EA planning and design process, the public, review agencies and the
Ministry of the Environment will be notified on the completion of the study. Subject to any
comments being received during the 30 day review period following the Notice of Completion,
and assuming that no Part II orders are received, the City may proceed to the design and
construction stages.
3.
Problem and Opportunity Statement
The existing road surface along this section of Balmoral Street has reached a deteriorated
condition since the last resurfacing improvements that were carried out between the mid 80’s
to early 90’s.
Traffic volumes have increased and additional traffic control measures are required for turning
movements at intersections.
There is an existing gap in the City’s Active Transportation Plan for a multi-use trail between the
north and south section of Balmoral Street.
There is an opportunity to rehabilitate and reconstruct the roadway structure along with
geometric, active transportation and storm water improvements.
4.
Review of Alternative Planning Solutions
The following list of alternative solutions to satisfy the Problem and Opportunity Statement
were developed and evaluated:




Do nothing
Resurface the roadway maintaining existing geometrics
Complete intersection improvements
Full roadway reconstruction as well as completing intersection improvements
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City of Thunder Bay
Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
Based on the evaluation, the preferred planning solution is to complete a full roadway
reconstruction. This solution addresses the problem and opportunities statement by providing
an urban road cross-section, improved intersection geometrics to accommodate existing/future
traffic volumes, improves roadway and property drainage and provides pedestrians with an
active transportation facility.
5.
Review of Alternative Design Solutions
Various design alternatives were proposed and evaluated to further refine the project. The
preferred project was developed, and the main components are noted as follows:

Construction of a full urban road cross-section including the implementation of concrete
curb and gutter, storm sewers and landscaped boulevards.

Geometric improvements at the Balmoral Street/Harbour Expressway including
increased storage lanes and widening the intersection to facilitate double left-turn
lanes, as warranted.

Traffic movement safety improvements at the Balmoral Street/Hewitson Street and
Balmoral Street/Amber Drive intersections, as warranted.

Integration of a new multi-use trail along Balmoral Street consistent with the City’s
Active Transportation Plan.

Storm water drainage improvements by means of green infrastructure, low impact
development and piped storm sewers.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
Executive Summary
Table of Contents
1.
STUDY BACKGROUND & PURPOSE ........................................................................................... 1
1.1 STUDY BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 STUDY PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 PROJECT LOCATION AND STUDY AREA ....................................................................................................... 2
1.4 REFERENCES & BACKGROUND STUDIES...................................................................................................... 2
1.5 CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA) PROCESS ................................................................................... 3
1.6 PROJECT TEAM ..................................................................................................................................... 3
1.7 STUDY SCHEDULE .................................................................................................................................. 3
1.8 CONSULTATION WITH REVIEW AGENCIES, SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS AND THE PUBLIC – PUBLIC COMMENT INVITED 3
1.9 COMPLETION OF STUDY (SUBMISSION OF PROJECT FILE)............................................................................... 5
2.
INVENTORY OF THE ENVIRONMENT....................................................................................... 6
2.1 EXISTING AND FUTURE TRANSPORTATION CONDITIONS................................................................................. 6
2.1.1
Existing Pavement Structure .............................................................................................. 6
2.1.2
Existing Traffic Volumes ..................................................................................................... 6
2.1.3
Future Traffic Conditions ................................................................................................... 6
2.1.4
Intersection Analysis .......................................................................................................... 6
2.2 EXISTING DRAINAGE .............................................................................................................................. 8
2.3 UTILITIES ............................................................................................................................................. 8
2.4 PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLIST FACILITIES ......................................................................................................... 9
2.5 EXISTING LAND USES ............................................................................................................................. 9
2.6 TERRESTRIAL HABITAT ............................................................................................................................ 9
2.7 WATER-CROSSINGS / FISHERIES HABITAT .................................................................................................. 9
2.8 PROBLEM AND OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT ................................................................................................. 9
3.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE UNDERTAKING ...............................................................................11
3.1 IDENTIFICATION OF ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS ........................................................................................... 11
3.2 PLANNING ALTERNATIVES CRITERIA AND EVALUATION ................................................................................ 11
3.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ........................................................................................................................... 11
3.3.1
Alternative 1: Do Nothing .................................................................................................11
3.3.2
Alternative 2: Resurface the Balmoral Street Roadway ....................................................12
3.3.3
Alternative 3: Complete Intersection Improvements .......................................................12
3.3.4
Alternative 4: Full Roadway Reconstruction, Intersection Improvements and Active
Transportation Connectivity .............................................................................................12
3.3.4.1
3.3.4.2
3.3.4.3
4.
Impact on Natural Environment................................................................................................. 12
Impact on Social Environment ................................................................................................... 12
Utilities ....................................................................................................................................... 13
3.4 RECOMMENDED PLANNING ALTERNATIVE ................................................................................................ 13
ALTERNATIVE DESIGNS ..............................................................................................................14
4.1 KEY FEATURES OF THE RECOMMENDED PLANNING ALTERNATIVE .................................................................. 14
4.2 DESIGN CRITERIA ................................................................................................................................ 14
4.2.1
Roadway Alignment ..........................................................................................................15
4.2.2
Concrete Curb & Gutter and Storm Drainage ...................................................................15
4.2.3
Active Transportation .......................................................................................................15
4.2.4
Pavement Rehabilitation ..................................................................................................16
4.2.5
Intersection Improvements ..............................................................................................16
4.2.6
Beautification & Landscaping ...........................................................................................17
4.2.7
Roadway Lighting ..............................................................................................................18
City of Thunder Bay
Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
4.2.8
Transit ………………………………………………………………………………….19
4.2.9
Accessibility .......................................................................................................................19
4.2.10 Additional Considerations .................................................................................................19
4.2.11 Preliminary Design Drawings and Concepts .....................................................................20
5.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION ..............................................................................................................21
5.1 DESCRIPTION OF ELEMENTS OF THE PROJECT ............................................................................................ 21
5.2 CONSTRUCTION STAGING...................................................................................................................... 21
5.3 ESTIMATED PROJECT COSTS .................................................................................................................. 21
5.4 APPROVALS........................................................................................................................................ 22
5.5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES............................................................................ 22
5.5.1
Noise Impacts....................................................................................................................22
5.5.2
Water Crossings ................................................................................................................22
5.5.3
Erosion and Sediment Control ..........................................................................................22
5.5.4
Air Quality Impacts............................................................................................................23
5.5.5
Emergency Spill Response ................................................................................................23
5.5.6
Waste Management .........................................................................................................23
5.5.7
Heritage and Archaeological .............................................................................................23
5.5.8
Accessibility .......................................................................................................................23
5.5.9
Monitoring ........................................................................................................................23
6.
CONCLUSION ..................................................................................................................................24
6.1 CONCLUSIONS .................................................................................................................................... 24
6.2 CLASS EA STATUS ............................................................................................................................... 24
List of Figures
Figure 1: Project Study Area ........................................................................................................................... 2
Appendix A
Public Comment Invited Notice, Letter to Property/Business Owners & Complete Mailing
Lists
Appendix B
Environmental Assessment Communication Log
Appendix C
Preliminary Design Drawings and Concepts
City of Thunder Bay
Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
1. Study Background & Purpose
1.1
Study Background
The City of Thunder Bay has identified the need to:

Reconstruct the existing road surface on Balmoral Street as the roadway has reached a
deteriorated condition since the last resurfacing improvements that were carried out
between the mid 80’s to early 90’s;

Provide intersection improvements for the Balmoral Street & Harbour Expressway,
Balmoral Street & Sibley/Hewitson and the Balmoral Street & Amber/Alloy intersections
as these intersections are currently operating under an undesirable level of service;

Integrate the City’s Active Transportation multi-use trail network as the existing network
is incomplete between the north and south section of Balmoral, and;

Improve storm water drainage.
1.2
Study Purpose
The purpose and objectives of this study are to:

Enhance traffic and pedestrian safety along the corridor;

Address existing/projected vehicular capacities at the traffic signal controlled Balmoral
Street/Harbour Expressway intersection;

Address existing turning movement safety concerns at the uncontrolled Balmoral Street
& Sibley/Hewitson and Balmoral Street & Amber/Alloy intersections;

Integrate the City’s Active Transportation multi-use trail network plan between the
north and south section of the study area;

Implement green infrastructure and low impact developments, as applicable, to
improve storm water management, and;

Identify a technically preferred alternative design to address opportunities and
anticipated deficiencies;
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
1.3
Project Location and Study Area
The primary study area for assessment of alternatives is generally defined as Balmoral Street
between the Neebing/McIntyre Floodway and Beverly Street as illustrated in Figure 1.
Figure 1: Project Study Area
1.4 References & Background Studies
References, including previous studies completed in the vicinity of the study area reviewed and
referenced in the text of this report are outlined below.


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City of Thunder Bay Official Plan, 2005
Geotechnical Investigation Report: Balmoral Street Reconstruction, DST, August 2015.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016



Municipal Class Environmental Assessment, Municipal Engineers Association, 2011.
West Intercity Area Transportation Study, DS-Lea Consultants Ltd., December 1995
Balmoral/Hewitson and Harbour Expressway Review, DS-Lea Consultants Ltd., June
2000.
City of Thunder Bay Engineering Development Standards, 2015.
City of Thunder Bay Department of Transportation & Works Contract Documents
Manual, 2000.


1.5
Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Process
This project was planned as a Schedule “B” municipal transportation project in accordance with
the Municipal Engineers Association Municipal Class Environmental Assessment, 2011 version.
The Class EA for this undertaking includes the resurfacing of the existing road, intersection
improvements, the addition of bicycle paths and pedestrian pathways and sidewalks and an
extension of the existing storm sewer systems. The project was organized generally to conform
to the phases detailed in the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment document.
1.6
Project Team
Hatch Mott MacDonald (HMM) was retained by the City of Thunder Bay in May 2015 to
complete the Class Environmental Assessment planning and public consultation process,
detailed design and construction supervision for this project.
As part of HMM’s team, Goel Group Ltd. was contracted to complete the traffic signal design
and tendering aspects of the project, and DST Consulting Engineers was contracted to complete
the geotechnical investigations and Pavement Design Report for this project.
1.7
Study Schedule
The study was initiated in May 2015. The major milestones are summarized as follows:



Project Initiation
Notice of Commencement of Study
Notice of Completion
May 2015
October 31, 2015
January 2016
The project is expected to proceed in three stages with the first stage of construction tentatively
scheduled for 2016.
1.8
Consultation with Review Agencies, Special Interest Groups and the Public – Public
Comment Invited
Initial contact was made with the public and the government review agencies during Phase Two
of the project. This is a mandatory point of contact under the Class EA. A Public Comment
Invited notice was published in the following local publications on the following dates:
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016


Chronicle Journal – Saturday, October 31, 2015
Chronicle Journal – Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Letters with the Public Comment Invited Notice were delivered to government review agencies
and other interest groups, as well as all property/business owners abutting the project limits. A
copy of the Notice as well as a copy of the letter is included in Appendix A.
The following is a list of the government review agencies and special interest groups that were
provided written notification of the study:
Ministries
 Aboriginal Affairs
 Environment & Climate Change
 Municipal Affairs & Housing
 Natural Resources & Forestry
 Transportation
Aboriginal Groups
 Métis Nation of Ontario – Head Office
 Métis Nation of Ontario – Thunder Bay
 Fort William First Nation
 Red Sky Métis Independent Nation
Agencies & Authorities
 Thunder Bay Police Services
 City of Thunder Bay Fire & Rescue
 Lakehead Region Conservation
Authority
Utilities
 TBayTel
 Shaw Cable
 Union Gas
 Thunder Bay Hydro
 HydroOne
 TELUS Corporation
 MTS Allstream
City of Thunder Bay
 Transportation and Works Department
 Office of the City Clerk
 Community Services – Parks Division
 City of Thunder Bay Mayor and Council
Members
 The Thunder Bay Community Economic
Development Commission
A detailed mailing list of the above is included in Appendix A.
A number of comments/concerns were received and are generally summarized below:








Active Transportation Trail (ATT) vs concrete sidewalks;
Lighting at pedestrian crossings and along the proposed ATT;
Pedestrian/cyclist safety;
Lack of bicycle/active transportation facilities and pedestrian access to businesses;
Harbour Expressway intersection configuration (proposed double lefts);
Landscaping and vegetation;
Green infrastructure and low impact development storm water management;
Transit accessibility.
A general email response was provided to all those who commented on the Public Comment
Invited Notice, stating that the comments/questions will be reviewed and taken into
consideration.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
Concerned business owners whose limits are being directly impacted by the proposed
improvements were met on an individual basis to ensure specific property issues and concerns
were addressed. Copies of the comments and responses can be found in Appendix B.
1.9
Completion of Study (Submission of Project File)
A Notice of Completion will be published in local newspapers at the time of submission of the
updated Project File. The Notice of Completion for the updated Project File identifies any
additional locations where the document can be viewed as well as notify the public and other
stakeholders of their right to request a Part II Order, and how and when such a request must be
submitted.
The public is encouraged to contact the City of Thunder Bay or their consultants if there are
questions or concerns about this project. If, after consulting with City staff or their consultants
serious environmental concerns remain unresolved, it is the public’s right to request that the
project be subject to an individual Environmental Assessment. The decision rests with the
Minister of the Environment.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
2. Inventory of the Environment
2.1
Existing and Future Transportation Conditions
Balmoral Street is a four-lane undivided major arterial roadway primarily running north-south
through the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario. The posted speed limit on Balmoral Street is 60 km/hr
from the Neebing/McIntyre Floodway to Lithium Drive and reducing to 50 km/h from Lithium
Drive to the northern end of the study area.
2.1.1 Existing Pavement Structure
DST Consulting Engineers was retained by HMM to complete the geotechnical
investigation for this project. The existing pavement along Balmoral Street consists of
110 to 195 mm of hot-mix asphalt. Crushed sand and gravel with trace silt was
encountered underlying the asphalt with a thickness of this layer ranging from 76 mm to
670 mm. A heterogeneous mixture of fine to coarse grained sand with gravel and trace
silt was encountered beneath the sand and gravel layer with thickness ranging from
thickness of this layer ranged from 0.255 m to 2.17m.
2.1.2 Existing Traffic Volumes
Existing traffic volumes were obtained from the City of Thunder Bay for the following
intersections:
 Balmoral Street & Harbour Expressway
 Balmoral Street & Hewitson Street/Sibley Drive
 Balmoral Street & Alloy Drive/Amber Drive
The remaining intersections (Balmoral and William Street, Central Avenue, Lithium
Drive, Jasper Drive, Beverly Street) along the corridor were not analyzed as part of this
project.
2.1.3 Future Traffic Conditions
The existing traffic volumes along Balmoral Street were estimated using a conservative annual
growth rate of one percent. The existing traffic volumes were forecasted to a 20-year horizon
from 2015 to 2035.
2.1.4 Intersection Analysis
The relative performance of an intersection is measured in terms of level of service (LOS), which
ranges from A (excellent) to F (beyond capacity). The City of Thunder Bay considers Level of
Service (LOS) “D” at capacity and they have indicated that ideally they would like to see all
intersections operating at a LOS “C” where feasible.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
Balmoral Street and Harbour Expressway Intersection
This signalized intersection is currently operating at an overall LOS “D” as the westbound
movement experiences heavy congestion in the PM peak hour, specifically the westbound
through and westbound left (WBL) movements. Due to the high left turning volumes and
existing signal timings, the WBL movement is currently operating at close to capacity and
experiences long queues which frequently exceed the existing vehicle storage capacity of the
left turning lane.
With the addition of the projected traffic growth and the existing configuration, the overall
intersection operation decreases to LOS “F”. With the addition of the project traffic growth and
the implementation of dual lefts, the overall intersection operation remains at a LOS “D”.
In order to achieve a LOS “C” at the Balmoral Street and Harbour expressway intersection, the
widening of both Balmoral Street and Harbour Expressway from 2 through lanes to 3 lanes
through lanes would be required as this reduces the congestion and shortens delay times. It
was agreed upon by the City that a LOS “D” would be acceptable at the Balmoral & Harbour
Expressway intersection.
Balmoral Street and Hewitson Street/Sibley Drive Intersection
This unsignalized intersection is currently operating at an overall LOS “F”. As a result of the
heavy north/south traffic volumes, the eastbound and westbound through and left movements
are not supplied with sufficient gaps to allow for safe execution of those movements. This
causes the traffic along Hewitson Street and Sibley Drive to experience critical delay times and
queuing in both the AM and PM peak hours.
With the addition of the projected traffic growth and the implementation of a partial median,
the overall intersection operation will increase to a LOS “A”. The partial median restricts the
eastbound/westbound through movements and northbound/southbound left turn movements
from Hewitson Street/Sibley Drive.
The implementation of traffic signals at this intersection was not considered as an existing
signalized intersection is in close proximity.
Balmoral Street and Alloy Drive/Amber Drive Intersection
This unsignalized intersection is also currently operating at an overall LOS “F”. Similar to the
Hewitson Street/Sibley Drive intersection, the heavy north/south traffic volumes along Balmoral
Street cause the eastbound and westbound left movements to operate at an unsatisfactory LOS
“F”.
With the addition of the projected traffic growth and the implementation of a partial median,
the overall intersection operation will increase to a LOS “A”. The partial median restricts the
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
eastbound/westbound through movements and northbound/southbound left turn movements
from Alloy Drive/Amber Drive.
The implementation of traffic signals at this intersection was not considered as an existing
signalized intersection is in close proximity.
2.2
Existing Drainage
The existing drainage patterns of the Balmoral Street corridor within the study area generally
flow in a north to south direction along the corridor and in a west to east direction across the
corridor. The existing surface drainage system is comprised of a series of roadside ditches,
shallow swales and a variety of flexible pipe culverts crossing various intersections. The study
section of Balmoral Street also contains a number of independent storm sewers systems along
the roadway that outlet directly into the adjacent ditches along the roadway.
Various businesses that rear face Balmoral Street along the study area have their parking lots
draining into the existing roadside ditches.
2.3
Utilities
Thunder Bay Telephone (TBayTel)
The TBayTel Engineering Department identified that they possess both aerial and buried plants
within the Balmoral Street corridor. An aerial distribution cable traverses the Balmoral Street
corridor, affixed to poles owned and operated by Thunder Bay Hydro.
Shaw Cable
Shaw Cable has aerial and underground plants within the study section of the Balmoral Street
corridor. The aerial distribution cable piggybacks the Thunder Bay Hydro poles.
Thunder Bay Hydro
Thunder Bay Hydro has an extensive distribution system throughout the study area. All of the
existing utility poles along this section of the Balmoral Street corridor are owned by Thunder Bay
Hydro. The majority of wooden poles running along the east side of the corridor carry roadway
illumination and some poles on the west side carry roadway luminaries as well.
Union Gas
Union Gas has a gas distribution line that runs underground in various areas along the corridor.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
Hydro One
Hydro One owns and operates a four circuit, high transmission line that runs west to east along
the Harbour Expressway and crosses the intersection of Balmoral Street and the Harbour
Expressway.
2.4
Pedestrian and Cyclist Facilities
There is an existing sidewalk along the eastern side of the corridor from the Balmoral Street and
Beverly Street intersection southerly to the Balmoral Street and Jasper Drive intersection. A
continuous pedestrian sidewalk does not exist throughout the limits of the corridor.
There are currently no designated cycling or active transportation facilities throughout the study
area.
2.5
Existing Land Uses
Light commercial as well as institutional land uses are located throughout the corridor.
Balmoral Street provides access to existing businesses in the area. Institutional land use within
the area includes Lakehead University, Evangel Church, Grassroots Church and the City of
Thunder Bay Police Services Station.
2.6
Terrestrial Habitat
No species at risk have been identified within the corridor, and there is not a significant amount
of clearing to be completed for the proposed works.
2.7
Water-Crossings / Fisheries Habitat
There is one water-crossing within the limits of this project, the Neebing-McIntyre Floodway
that would be subject to the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority’s (LRCA) Development,
Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulations . The
LRCA own and maintain the Neebing-McIntyre Floodway, including the Diversion Structure,
portions of the Neebing River banks, the banks and bed of the Diversion Channel and the
widened deepened Floodway channel out into Lake Superior.
Notification was received from the LRCA in December of 2015 that in general, any development
within the approximate regulated area may require a permit under the Authority Regulations.
2.8
Problem and Opportunity Statement
The existing road surface along this section of Balmoral Street has reached a deteriorated
condition since the last resurfacing improvements that were carried out between the mid 80’s
to early 90’s. Traffic volumes have increased and additional traffic control measures are
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
required for turning movements at intersections. There is an existing gap in the City’s Active
Transportation Plan for a multi-use trail between the north and south section of Balmoral Street.
There is an opportunity to rehabilitate and reconstruct the roadway structure along with
geometric, active transportation and storm water improvements.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
3. Alternatives to the Undertaking
3.1 Identification of Alternative Solutions
Based on the review of the Problem and Opportunity Statement, the following alternative
solutions were developed and evaluated during the Class EA process. These alternatives include:




Do nothing
Resurface the roadway maintaining existing geometrics
Complete intersection improvements
Full roadway reconstruction as well as completing intersection improvements
3.2
Planning Alternatives Criteria and Evaluation
The evaluation criteria listed below were developed following the requirements and guidelines
of the Municipal Class EA document, and include comments received during the consultation
process.
Transportation Service
 Intersection capacity
 Traffic safety
 Transit operations
 Accommodation of pedestrians and
cyclists
Natural Environment
 Neebing-McIntyre Floodway
 Stormwater drainage
Social Impacts
 Community Growth
Engineering
 Utility relocation
 Capital costs
 Operating costs
The planning alternatives were evaluated based on the ability of the alternative to address the
problem statement, including impacts to transportation and environmental impacts.
3.3
Impact Assessment
3.3.1
Alternative 1: Do Nothing
The ‘Do Nothing’ alternative does not address existing capacity deficiencies and safety
issues with turning movements at intersections. It also does not address the
deteriorated condition of the roadway, existing roadway and property drainage and lack
of active transportation facilities. Therefore, this alternative will not be evaluated
further.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
3.3.2
Alternative 2: Resurface the Balmoral Street Roadway
The alternative of resurfacing Balmoral Street roadway will address the deteriorated
condition of the roadway. However, it does not address the capacity deficiencies and
safety issues with the turning movements at intersections, existing roadway and
property drainage concerns and lack of active transportation facilities. Therefore, this
alternative will not be evaluated further.
3.3.3
Alternative 3: Complete Intersection Improvements
The alternative of completing intersection improvements will address the additional
capacity required for turning movements. However, it does not address the
deteriorated condition of the roadway, existing roadway and property drainage
concerns and lack of active transportation facilities. Therefore, this alternative will not
be evaluated further.
3.3.4
Alternative 4: Full Roadway Reconstruction, Intersection Improvements and Active
Transportation Connectivity
Full roadway reconstruction to an urban design cross-section and completing
intersection improvements has the capacity to address existing and projected traffic
volumes for turning movements at intersections. The implementation of an active
transportation trail will provide connectivity to the existing trail network on the north
and south limits. Also, to address storm water management, the implementation of
green infrastructure and low impact developments will be introduced. This alternative
will address all the issues noted in the Problem and Opportunity Statement.
3.3.4.1
Impact on Natural Environment
Much of the area (mainly for the boulevards) to be constructed is old natural
vegetation, secondary growth and grass cover.
Roadway related storm drainage facilities will collect storm water and discharge it to the
existing Neebing-McIntyre Floodway. A bio-retention/bio-filtration drainage swale and
catch basin system will be implemented along the City’s right-of-way to ensure positive
drainage along the low lying properties along the corridor. Sediment and erosion
control devices will be constructed at the discharge point to the Neebing-McIntyre
Floodway, the details of which will be confirmed during detailed design and the
necessary permits obtained from the LRCA.
3.3.4.2
Impact on Social Environment
The existing roadway platform will be retained with boulevards being filled in to
facilitate active transportation facilities.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
3.3.4.3
Utilities
The existing Thunder Bay Hydro poles along the entire east side of the corridor will be
impacted by the proposed roadway reconstruction, mainly due to the implementation
of active transportation facilities in the boulevard. The alignment of the existing hydro
poles is not the concern; it is the filling/cutting activities around each pole required to
build the active transportation facilities. Almost all of the existing poles will have a
cut/fill greater than 0.2m with several with 1.0m or greater which warrant a pole
replacement. Thunder Bay Hydro (TBH) will upgrade their facilities as part of the
relocations.
Thunder Bay Telephone and Shaw Cable have aerial plants on the existing Thunder Bay
Hydro poles, and will relocate their plant as part of the TBH relocations.
3.4
Recommended Planning Alternative
Balmoral Street is an important transportation corridor in the City of Thunder Bay. It provides a
north-south link to many businesses in the City of Thunder Bay’s intercity area. Providing
adequate capacity in this corridor is critical to planning for the economic growth and well-being
of the City.
Based on the assessment and evaluation of the alternatives to the undertaking, the preferred
and recommended planning solution is Alternative 4, full roadway reconstruction complete with
intersection improvements, implementation of active transportation facilities and
implementation of storm water management measures.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
4. Alternative Designs
The preferred planning alternative is to reconstruct the full roadway along the corridor. This
section provides a review and summary of several design alternatives.
4.1
Key Features of the Recommended Planning Alternative
Major features of the recommended planning alternative include the following:

Construction of a full urban road cross-section including the implementation of concrete
curb and gutter, storm sewers and landscaped boulevards.

Geometric improvements at the Balmoral Street/Harbour Expressway including increased
storage lanes and widening the intersection to facilitate double left-turn lanes, as
warranted.

Traffic movement safety improvements at the Balmoral Street/Hewitson Street and
Balmoral Street/Amber Drive intersections, as warranted.

Integration of a new multi-use trail along Balmoral Street consistent with the City’s Active
Transportation Plan.

Storm water drainage improvements by means of green infrastructure, low impact
development and piped storm sewers.
4.2
Design Criteria
The following geometric design criteria were developed using the Transportation Association of
Canada (TAC), Geometric Design Manual (GDM) guidelines and City of Thunder Bay Standards
and were followed during the planning of this project.

Harbour Expressway
Design speeds = 70 km/h for northbound (NBL) and southbound (SBL) lanes, 80 km/h for
eastbound lanes (EBL) and westbound lanes (WBL)
Lane widths = 3.75 m EBL and WBL
= 3.50 m NBL and SBL

Balmoral Street – from the Neebing-McIntyre Floodway northerly to Lithium Drive
Design speed = 70 km/h
Lane widths = 3.50 m, and the curb lane = 4.5 m

Balmoral Street – from Lithium Drive northerly to Beverly Street
Design speed = 60 km/h
Lane widths = 3.50 m, and the curb lane = 4.5 m
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
4.2.1
Roadway Alignment
The right of way width along the Balmoral Street is generally 30m wide from the NeebingMcIntyre Floodway to Beverly Street. The existing centerline of the road was retained.
The vertical alignment was reviewed with respect to the City of Thunder Bay and TAC guidelines,
and it was confirmed that the existing alignment is well within the standards. Therefore, there
are no modifications proposed to the vertical alignment, other than minor adjustments to
accommodate the recommended pavement strategy and to ensure positive drainage on the
roadway curb and gutter system.
4.2.2
Concrete Curb & Gutter and Storm Drainage
Concrete curb and gutter is proposed to be constructed along both sides of the roadway which
is consistent with the City of Thunder Standards for an urban roadway. Storm drainage will be
provided by a piped storm sewer system, which will allow the retirement of the existing
roadside ditches in this area. Two bio-retention/bio-filtration swales will be constructed in
areas where the new boulevard and existing low lying properties exist.
The roadside drainage along the section of Balmoral Street between William Street and the
Neebing-McIntyre Floodway will remain as open ditch. This open ditch will improve the water
quality entering the Neebing-McIntyre Floodway by providing valuable filtering of the storm
water through vegetation.
4.2.3
Active Transportation
The City has developed an overall Active Transportation Plan which identifies Commuter Routes
and Recreational Trails. The Balmoral Street corridor is identified as a commuter route between
the Neebing-McIntyre Floodway and Beverly Street. The volume/demand for separate
commuter cyclist facilities is not high enough to warrant the addition of both an active
transportation trail and commuter lanes.
Existing active transportation trails terminate at the southerly and northerly limits of the study
area, leaving a gap along the Balmoral Street corridor without any means of safe pedestrian
travel.
The proposed design will incorporate an active transportation trail on the east and west sides of
the roadway, enabling pedestrian connectivity to side streets and businesses along the entire
corridor. The City roads department is currently looking to incorporating snow removal and
winter maintenance along the active transportation trail into their budget.
A connection between the active transportation trail/sidewalk and existing businesses is feasible
with the expression of interest from businesses on a case-by-case basis. This will be included
with the Notice of Completion of the EA.
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Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
The addition of a connection along Sibley Drive from the new active transportation trail to the
existing active transportation trail within the Confederation College property will be a
provisional item, provided there is room in the budget.
The appropriate trail/pedestrian signage will be installed in accordance to the Ontario Traffic
Manual (OTM) requirements for Cycling Facilities and Pedestrian Crossings (Book 18 & 15). CTB
is currently in the process of developing a program for the possibility of future installation of
mid-block pedestrian crossings. The release of an educational program for mid-block pedestrian
crossings is expected in 2016.
The possibility of installing inlet basins or curb bubbles as an alternative to traditional curb and
gutter catch basins along the roadway will not be considered through this corridor, as active
transportation trails are being implemented on both the east and west sides of the roadway.
Accessible rest areas with benches will be included intermittently along both sides of the length
of the project as per AODA requirements and with the guidance of the Built Environment
Accessible Standards.
4.2.4
Pavement Rehabilitation
DST Consulting Engineers completed the geotechnical investigation for the project. The
Geotechnical Report dated August 2015 recommends pavement structure rehabilitation
consisting of performing in place processing to reclaim the existing pavement to its full depth
followed by placement of 50mm of Granular ‘A’ distribution for grading and cross fall purposes,
and finishing the process by placing 120mm of either Superpave or HL4 asphalt on top of the
Granular ‘A’.
4.2.5
Intersection Improvements
All of the signalized intersections will be designed in compliance with OTM Book 15 for
Pedestrian Crossing Facilities and OTM Book 18 for Cyclist Facilities, as well as in accordance
with the requirements under the AODA.
Balmoral Street & Harbour Expressway Intersection
The merge lanes onto and off of the Harbour Expressway will be designed to meet the required
specifications as per the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC ) Geometric Design Guide
for Canadian Roads.
To alleviate the proposed concerns with the addition of double left turn lanes, the following
points have been considered:

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The intersection design is based on peak traffic flows (current and projected over the
lifespan of the intersection) in order to maintain functionality through the intersections
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
presently and in the future. The double left turns are required to meet the increase in
vehicular traffic and to allow the intersection to operate at a safe level of service.

The intersection design will include controlled left turns, restricting through-left
movements that would conflict with pedestrian/cyclist crossing.

Countdown pedestrian signals will be incorporated to prevent pedestrians from crossing
without adequate time to reach the opposite side.

The intersection dimensions will increase by 3.5m, a minimal distance that will be
accounted for when programming the timing of the signals. This is expected to improve
the flow of traffic through the intersection, ultimately reducing the wait times for
drivers.

The right turn radius of a tractor trailer must be able to safely make the turn without
impeding into the inside lane and/or going over the curb. This will be considered when
completing the final design with regards to reconfiguring the ramps with tighter radii to
slow vehicles and provide a further line of sight to pedestrian crossings.

The geometrics of the Harbour Expressway intersection in combination with the
Sibley/Hewitson intersections are too close together to consider the integration of wide
radius corners and the removal of right turn ramps.

The implementation of the City of Thunder Bay’s first roundabout into a higher speed,
high traffic area is not feasible. The ideal location for a pilot project would likely be a
residential, lower speed/traffic area. A roundabout in this area would not be
pedestrian-friendly due to the large volume of truck traffic and the lack of public
education on the proper use of a roundabout.
Uncontrolled Intersections
All of the unsignalized intersections will be designed in compliance with the OTM Book 15 for
Pedestrian Crossing Facilities and OTM Book 18 for Cyclist Facilities, as well as in accordance
with the requirements under the AODA.
The Jasper Drive and Lithium Street intersection geometrics will remain unchanged.
4.2.6
Beautification & Landscaping
Trees will be planted along the corridor where space permits. Climate tolerant vegetation is
proposed to be implemented along the design fore slopes of the boulevard. Consultations with
the City Forester and the City Parks Department will take place during detailed design with
regards to these measures.
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Balmoral Street Reconstruction
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Green Infrastructure (GI) and Low Impact Development (LID) measures and practices will also be
incorporated where both functionally and economically feasible to compliment standard storm
water management plans with the goal of reducing the storm water impact on the underground
storm system and improving runoff quality and quantity.
GI practices will be included throughout the length of the project with the goal of improving the
quality of the environment by reducing air pollutants and noise emissions as well as beautifying
the natural environment and enhancing the biodiversity along the corridor.
The high water table in the limits of the project greatly affect the ability to implement certain
LID measures in regards to water retention/storage. The water table reduces the available
vertical storage throughout the project, ensuing additional costs to incorporate many of these
options which ultimately eliminates their feasibility. In the event of a rainstorm, the massive
volume of water and the high flows attributed to the drainage areas that will flow into the storm
water system along this corridor will not be reduced to a large enough degree to warrant the
financial expenditure of implementing retention areas.
Upon recommendation from the Earth Care Sustainability Plan and the Urban Design Guidelines,
some of the LID techniques that will be incorporated into this project include, grassed areas,
bio-retention/bio-filtration swales and maintaining the existing open ditches that reside south of
William Street with flows entering the Neebing-McIntyre Floodway. The existing open ditches
that will remain along the section of Balmoral Street between William Street and the NeebingMcIntyre Floodway will aid in storm water retention directly preceding water distribution into
the Floodway.
Pedestrian facilities (recycling/waste receptacles, rest areas) will be considered with reference
to the Earth Care Sustainability Plan and the Clean, Green & Beautiful policy and in compliance
with the AODA requirements.
Options to incorporate GI into the islands of the Harbour Expressway intersection as an
alternative to the traditional asphalt islands will be investigated and incorporated if
economically feasible.
4.2.7
Roadway Lighting
Street lighting along the corridor will be reviewed and upgraded as necessary to meet current
standards. Existing hydro poles will be utilized where practical for mounting the street lighting
arms.
LED lighting will be installed on any new poles as required. The existing lighting will remain as is
on existing poles that are not replaced. Lighting will be installed at all transit stops and
pedestrian crossings to meet the guidelines and requirements of the Thunder Bay Transit
Master Plan, City of Thunder Bay (CTB) Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and the Accessibility for
Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
4.2.8
Transit
The proposed design supports and references the Thunder Bay Transit Master Plan. Transit
facilities will be in compliance with the City of Thunder Bay 2013-2018 Multi-Year Accessibility
Plan, meeting the requirements of the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation under the
AODA as a designated public sector organization (effective January 1, 2016).
Transit will be consulted during the detailed design phase to ensure that any future transit stop
locations will be considered in the current design to minimize future construction interruptions.
Connections from the sidewalk/ATT to all transit stops is a requirement under the AODA and will
be included in the detailed design where required.
4.2.9
Accessibility
All components of the design will be in compliance with the City of Thunder Bay 2013-2018
Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, meeting the requirements of the Integrated Accessibility Standards
Regulation under the AODA as a designated public sector organization (effective January 1,
2016). Future AODA requirements will be considered during the design of the project
(pedestrian crossing educational program beginning in 2016, future bus shelter installations,
etc.).
The design for all exterior routes (sidewalks, ramps, connections, etc.) will be done with
reference to Sections 5 and 8 of the Final Proposed Accessible Built Environment
Standard and in compliance with the relevant AODA requirements.
Consideration will be given to the location of the sidewalk/ATT and the safety of mobility
device users with respect to the possibility of spills, tips or getting caught on lips or trip
edges.
The roadway, sidewalk facilities and the active transportation trail will include provisions
for access for physically restricted persons by way of sloped curbs and entrance ways,
and ramped sidewalks and paths, which allow for maximum access and ease of
movement.
4.2.10 Additional Considerations
The impact of increased traffic volumes to the surrounding areas as a result of detours
will be considered during the next phase of the design. During construction, the
construction and project management team will be in constant communication with the
surrounding business owners with regards to future construction delays/sequences that
may affect potential customers.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
The CTB Engineering Division will coordinate the construction of this project with other
local improvement projects and/or other roadwork in the immediate vicinity to avoid
overlapping traffic detour impacts.
The placement of manholes to avoid the wheel track will be considered during both the
detailed design and construction phases.
The following plans, policies, guidelines and standards (and any other applicable
documents) will be referenced and implemented where possible throughout all
components of the detailed design:











Final Proposed Accessible Built Environment Standard
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act
Ontario Traffic Manual Book 15 for Pedestrian Crossing Facilities
Ontario Traffic Manual Book 18 for Cyclist Facilities
Urban Forest Management Plan
Storm Water Master Plan draft
EarthCare Sustainability Plan
City of Thunder Bay 2013-2018 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan
Urban Design Guidelines
Active Transportation Plan
Clean, Green & Beautiful policy
4.2.11 Preliminary Design Drawings and Concepts
The proposed improvements to the Balmoral Street corridor between the NeebingMcIntyre River and Beverly Street in previous sections are further presented in the
preliminary design drawings and concepts shown in Appendix C.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
5. Project Description
5.1
Description of Elements of the Project
The improvements to Balmoral Street are summarized as follows:









Full pavement rehabilitation
Concrete curb and gutter along the entire study area
Piped storm sewers and storm water drainage improvements
Geometric improvements at the Harbour Expressway including the implementation of dual
left-turns
The implementation of a partial median at the Hewitson Street/Sibley Drive and Alloy
Drive/Amber Drive intersections
Active transportation trail on both sides of the reconstructed roadway
Landscaping including grassed areas, bioswales and tree planting
Street lighting improvements
Utility relocations
5.2
Construction Staging
The project is anticipated to be completed in several stages, generally estimated as follows:

Stage 1 – Year 2016
From the Neebing-McIntyre Floodway northerly to Alloy Drive/Amber Drive intersection
(including the geometric modifications at the Harbour Expressway intersection)

Stage 2 – Year 2017
From the Alloy Drive/Amber Drive intersection northerly to Central Avenue

Stage 3 – Year 2014
From Central Avenue northerly to the Beverly Street intersection
The extent and timing of the various stages may vary pending available funding.
5.3
Estimated Project Costs
Project costs were estimated based on preliminary designs and concepts. Below is an outline of
the current preliminary cost estimates for Stages 1, 2 and 3.
STAGE
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PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE
Stage 1 – Year 2016
(including Harbour Expressway)
$4,200,000
Stage 2 – Year 2017
$1,200,000
Stage 3 – Year 2018
$3,500,000
TOTAL
$8,900,000
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
It is anticipated that this project will be funded by the tax supported budget including
applications to provincial and federal governments.
5.4
Approvals
The following approvals will be required prior to construction of the works:


Ministry of the Environment, per OCWA Section 53 for the storm sewers.
Lakehead Region Conservation Authority – storm sewer discharges to the NeebingMcIntyre Floodway.
5.5
Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
The City of Thunder Bay Engineering Development Standards, 2010 was referenced to complete
this section of the report. The work for environmental protection, including the management
and disposal of excess materials, control of water in dewatering, temporary erosion control
measures and the use of explosives is covered in Section 01561 of the manual. Below is a
summary of pertinent environmental considerations for this project.
5.5.1
Noise Impacts
During construction the Contractor will control noise emission from equipment and
plant to local authorities’ noise emission requirements. Construction hours may also be
limited to minimize impacts on the surrounding environment.
5.5.2
Water Crossings
The effects resulting from municipal transportation projects including the alteration of
composition of the vegetation through the loss of topsoil, removing/disturbing
significant trees and/or ground flora, and the increased exposure of trees in the right-ofway can result in habitat loss for wildlife. Mitigating measures to reduce the potential
for adverse environmental effects include replacing topsoil, providing a buffer zone and
minimizing tree removal.
There is no work in-water anticipated for proposed works for this project at any of the
water crossings, and erosion and sediment control measures will be utilized to ensure
materials generated during construction activities do not affect the waterways.
5.5.3
Erosion and Sediment Control
The potential for erosion or sedimentation in this project is minimal. The project does
not involve any significant earth works and no large areas will be exposed. Potential
areas for erosion include culvert replacement/extensions, storm sewer outlets/outfalls
and culvert and ditch cleanouts.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
Sediment controls, typically silt fence, will be installed at those locations to mitigate
sedimentation. These efforts will be in addition to any monitoring requirements
identified by the regulatory agencies such as the MOE, MNR and the Lakehead Region
Conservation Authority.
5.5.4
Air Quality Impacts
The effects of construction on air quality must be addressed to ensure the protection of
public health. All emissions must comply with Ministry of environment guidelines.
Mitigating measures during construction include utilizing water trucks for dust
suppression as needed and limiting on site stockpiles.
5.5.5
Emergency Spill Response
Direct responsibility for containment and cleanup of spills and abandoned material rests
with the owner of the material and person in control of the material at the time of the
spill or abandonment.
5.5.6
Waste Management
Management and disposal of excess materials will follow guidelines as set in Ontario
Provincial Standard Specification (OPSS) 180.
5.5.7
Heritage and Archaeological
During the construction activities should any heritage or archaeological artifacts be
identified, the work on site will stop immediately and the appropriate authorities will be
notified. The site or area of the discovery will be separated and secured until the
investigation is complete.
5.5.8
Accessibility
Accessibility for the public will be maintained during construction. This includes
provisions of temporary walkways, driveway accesses, pathways, etc. Access for
emergency vehicles will be provided at all times.
5.5.9
Monitoring
Environmental commitments made during this study are monitored during and after
construction. The construction administration staffs check for compliance with design
and construction commitments in environmental assessment documentation.
The monitoring will include any requirements identified by the regulatory agencies such
as the MOE, MNR and the LRCA.
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Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Project File Update: January 2016
6. Conclusion
6.1
Conclusions
The preferred planning alternative for this study is to complete full roadway reconstruction
including intersection improvements and implementation of active transportation facilities.
6.2
Class EA Status
The filing of this of Schedule B Project File on the public record marks the conclusion of Phase 4 of
the Municipal Engineers Association Class Environmental Assessment process for this study. Subject
to any comments received during the review period, and assuming that no Part II order requests are
submitted, the project will be considered to be approved under the Class EA. The City of Thunder
Bay may then proceed to the detailed design and implementation stages.
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APPENDIX A: 


Public Comment Invited Notice Letter to Property/Business Owners Complete Mailing Lists City of Thunder Bay
Class Environmental Assessment
Improvements to Balmoral Street from the Neebing/McIntyre Floodway
north to Beverly Street
Public Comment Invited
The City has identified deficiencies in the Balmoral Street corridor between the Neebing/McIntyre Floodway
Bridge and Beverly Street. The existing road surface has reached a deteriorated condition since the last
resurfacing improvements that were carried out between the mid 80’s to early 90’s. Vehicular traffic
volumes have increased and the lack of sidewalks is a concern with pedestrian safety in the area. The City is
therefore considering the following alternatives as
solutions to the problem:
 Do-Nothing;
 Resurface the Roadway;
 Complete Intersection Improvements;
 Full Roadway Reconstruction including implementation
of storm sewer, intersection improvements and
boulevard construction complete with sidewalk and
active transportation trail (preliminary preferred
solution).
In accordance with the requirements for Schedule B
projects of the Municipal Class Environmental
Assessment, preliminary study material and plans will be
available for review at the offices of the consulting
engineer. Information is also available on the City’s
and the Consultants
website: www.thunderbay.ca
website: www.enl-tbay.com/balmoral.html.
For further details on this project, or to inspect a copy of
the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment, please
contact:
Joseph De Luca, P. Eng., Project Engineer
Hatch Mott MacDonald
301-200 S. Syndicate Avenue
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1C9
Telephone (807) 625-8707
e-mail: joseph.deluca@hatchmott.com
Public input and comments are invited, for incorporation
into the planning and design of this project, and will be
received until December 2nd, 2015. Subject to comments
received and the receipt of necessary approvals, the City
of Thunder Bay intends to proceed with the planning,
design and construction of this project by mid-2016.
This Notice issued October 31, 2015.
Mike Vogrig, P. Eng.
Project Engineer
City of Thunder Bay
October 31, 2015
«NameOwner»
«Address»
«City», «Prov» «PostalCode»
Dear Sir/Madam:
RE: Public Comment Invited
Improvements to Balmoral Street
The City of Thunder Bay has retained Hatch Mott MacDonald for the Municipal Class Environmental
Assessment of proposed improvements to the Balmoral Street corridor between the Neebing/McIntyre
Floodway and Beverly Street. The purpose of this letter is to introduce the study and invite any comments
or concerns you may have about the project.
The Public Comment Invited notice is attached which includes a location map and details about the project.
If you have any comments or concerns or would like additional information about the study, please contact
Hatch Mott MacDonald as indicated in the notice.
Sincerely,
Joseph De Luca, P. Eng.
Project Engineer
Enclosure
cc:
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Mike Vogrig, P.Eng., City of Thunder Bay
J. De Luca, HMM/file
Mailing List – Balmoral Road Improvements/Reconstruction
Municipal Class EA
August 2015 – Notice of Study
Summary of Contacts
Ministries
 Aboriginal Affairs
 Environment & Climate Change
 Municipal Affairs & Housing
 Natural Resources & Forestry
 Transportation
Aboriginal Groups
 Fort William First Nation
 Métis Nation of Ontario – Head Office
 Métis Nation of Ontario – Thunder Bay
Council
 Red Sky Métis Independent Nation
Ministries
Hatch Mott MacDonald
Utilities
 Tbay Tel
 Shaw
 Union Gas
 Thunder Bay Hydro
 Hydro One
 Bell
 TELUS
 MTS Allstream
City of Thunder Bay
 (see list below)
 Mayor
 Council
Other
 Community Economic Development
Commission
 Conservation Authority
 Student Transportation Services
CONTACT
DEAR
COMMENT
Rachael Manson-Smith, Senior Advisor
Aboriginal Relations and Ministry Partnerships Division
Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs
9th Floor, 160 Bloor Street East
Toronto ON M7A 2E6
Ms. Manson-Smith
A copy of this notice has also
been sent to: Fort William First
Nation, the Métis Consultation
Unit, the Thunder Bay Métis
Council and the Red Sky Métis
Independent Nation.
Carrie Hutchinson, Environmental Planner/EA Coordinator
Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change
435 James St. S., Suite 331
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 6S7
Ms. Hutchinson
Ms. Shannon Dodd Smith, Manager
Community Planning and Development
Municipal Services Office – North (Thunder Bay)
Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing
435 James Street South, Suite 223
Thunder Bay ON P7E 6S7
Ms. Dodd Smith
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Mailing List – Balmoral Road Improvements/Reconstruction
Municipal Class EA
August 2015 – Notice of Study
Aboriginal Groups
Hatch Mott MacDonald
Rik Aikman, Resources Operations Supervisor
Thunder Bay District
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
Ontario Government Building
Suite B001, 435 James Street South
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 6E3
Mr. Aikman
Iain Galloway, Manager, Engineering Office
Northwestern Region
Ministry of Transportation
615 South James Street, P.O. Box 1177
Thunder Bay ON P7E 6P6
Mr. Galloway
Chief Peter Collins
Fort William First Nation
Suite 200, 90 Anemki Dr.
Thunder Bay, ON P7J 1L3
Chief Collins
Métis Consultation Unit
Métis Nation of Ontario Head Office
500 Old St. Patrick Street, Unit D
Ottawa, ON K1N 9G4
Sir/Madam
Bryanna Scott, President
Métis Nation of Ontario
Thunder Bay Métis Council
226 May St. S.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1B4
Ms. Scott
Red Sky Métis Independent Nation
406 E. Victoria Ave.
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 1A5
Sir/Madam
The Ministry of Aboriginal
Affairs has previously
recommended that we contact
your office to notify the
appropriate Métis communities
that may have an interest in this
project. A copy of this Notice has
also been sent to the Thunder Bay
Métis Council and the Red Sky
Métis Independent Nation.
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Mailing List – Balmoral Road Improvements/Reconstruction
Municipal Class EA
August 2015 – Notice of Study
Emergency Service
Providers
Utilities
Hatch Mott MacDonald
Thunder Bay Police Service
1200 Balmoral St.
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5Z5
Sir/Madam
City of Thunder Bay Fire & Rescue Services
330 Vickers St. N.
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 4B2
Sir/Madam
Superior North Emergency Medical Services
HEADQUARTERS
401 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V1
Sir/Madam
Paul Mascarin
TBay Tel OPE Specialist
TBayTel
1050 Lithium Drive
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6G3
Mr. Mascarin
John Komar
Shaw System Planner
Shaw Cable
1635 Paquette Rd.
Thunder Bay, ON P7G 2J2
Mr. Komar
Don McClusky
Union Gas
1211 Amber Drive
Thunder Bay, ON P7A 8B2
Mr. McClusky
Don Zimak, V.P. Power Systems
Thunder Bay Hydro
Power Systems Division
34 Cumberland St. N.
Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4L4
Mr. Zimak
353364
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Municipal Class EA
August 2015 – Notice of Study
Bishop Racicot
HydroOne
P.O. Box 10309
255 Burwood Rd
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6T8
Mr. Racicot
Bell Canada
229 Vickers St. S.
Thunder Bay, ON P7B6T8
City of Thunder Bay
Hatch Mott MacDonald
Eros Spadotto, Executive Vice-President, Technology Strategy
TELUS Corporation
510 W. Georgia St., 23rd Floor
Vancouver, BC V6B 0M3
Mr. Spadotto
Chief Technology & Information Officer
MTS Allstream
P.O. Box 6666
333 Main Street
Winnipeg, MN R3C 3V6
Sir/Madam
Kayla Dixon, Director – Engineering
City of Thunder Bay Infrastructure & Operations
Engineering Division
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Avenue South
P.O. Box 800
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5K4
Ms. Dixon
Mark Smith – General Manager
City of Thunder Bay Development & Emergency Services
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Avenue South
P.O. Box 800
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5K4
Mr. Smith
353364
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August 2015 – Notice of Study
Hatch Mott MacDonald
John Hannam, City Clerk
City of Thunder Bay Corporate Services
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Mr. Hannam
Kerri Marshall, Manager – Environment
City of Thunder Bay Infrastructure & Operations
Environment Division
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Avenue South
P.O. Box 800
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5K4
Ms. Marshall
Darrell Matson, General Manager
City of Thunder Bay Infrastructure & Operations
Administration Division
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Avenue South
P.O. Box 800
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5K4
Mr. Matson
Brad Adams, Manager – Roads
City of Thunder Bay Infrastructure & Operations Roads Division
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Avenue South
P.O. Box 800
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5K4
Mr. Adams
Adam Krupper, Active Transportation Coordinator
City of Thunder Bay Transportation & Works
Department
Engineering Division
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Avenue South
P.O. Box 800
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5K4
Mr. Krupper
353364
Mailing List – Balmoral Road Improvements/Reconstruction
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August 2015 – Notice of Study
Hatch Mott MacDonald
Paul Fayrick, Manager of Parks
City of Thunder Bay Community Services Parks Division
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Avenue South
P.O. Box 800
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5K4
Mr. Fayrick
Brad Loroff, Manager – Transit
City of Thunder Bay Transportation & Works Department
Transit Division
570 Fort William Rd.
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 2Z8
Mr. Loroff
Shelley Vescio
City Forester
City of Thunder Bay Community Services – Parks
111 S. Syndicate Ave.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 6S4
Ms. Vescio
Ron Furioso
Capital Projects Supervisor
P.O. Box 800
Thunder Bay, ON P7C5K4
Mr. Furioso
Sarah Kerton, HBES, BEd, MNRM
Community Environmental Action Plan Coordinator
Environment Division,
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Ave. S. PO Box 800
Thunder Bay, Ontario P7C 5K4
Ms. Kerton
Mayor Keith Hobbs
City of Thunder Bay
500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Mayor Hobbs
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Mailing List – Balmoral Road Improvements/Reconstruction
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August 2015 – Notice of Study
Hatch Mott MacDonald
Andrew Foulds
Member of Council, Current River Ward
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Foulds
Trevor Giertuga
Member of Council, McIntyre Ward
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Giertuga
Paul Pugh
Member of Council, McKellar Ward
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Pugh
Linda Rydholm
Member of Council, Neebing Ward
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Rydholm
Shelby Ch’ng
Member of Council, Northwood Ward
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Ch’ng
Brian McKinnon
Member of Council, Red River Ward
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor McKinnon
353364
Mailing List – Balmoral Road Improvements/Reconstruction
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August 2015 – Notice of Study
Hatch Mott MacDonald
Joe Virdiramo
Member of Council, Westfort Ward
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Virdiramo
Iain Angus
Member of Council
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Angus
Rebecca Johnson
Member of Council
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Johnson
Larry Hebert
Member of Council
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Hebert
Frank Pullia
Member of Council
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Pullia
Aldo Ruberto
Member of Council
Office of the City Clerk
City Hall, 500 Donald St. E.
Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5V3
Councilor Ruberto
353364
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Other
T. Douglas Murray, CEO
The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development
Commission (CEDC)
Customer Contact Centre and Transportation
P.O. Box 800
Suite 201, 34 Cumberland Street North
Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5K4
Mr. Demmings
Tammy Cook, Watershed Manager
Lakehead Region Conservation Authority
P.O. Box 10427
130 Conservation Road
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6T8
Ms. Cook
Student Transportation Services of Thunder Bay
Suite 2001, 715 Hewitson St.
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6B5
Hatch Mott MacDonald
353364
Balmoral Road Reconstruction Property Owners
Mailing List
Name/Owner
Lakehead University Board of
Governors
The Trustees of Grass Roots Church
Greek Orthodox Community Of The
Holy Trinity
The Pentecostal Assemblies of
Canada
C/O GARY WILSON
Handicapped Action Group Inc
Corporation of the City of Thunder
Bay
Address
955 OLIVER RD
City
THUNDER BAY
Prov
ON
PostalCode
P7B 5El
Re Property
955 Oliver Rd
1250 BALMORAL ST
651 BEVERLY ST
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7B 5Z5
P7B 6N2
1250 Balmoral St
651 Beverly St
1260 BALMORAL ST
Thunder Bay
ON
P7B 5Z5
1260 Balmoral St
1201 JASPER DR SUITE A
500 DONALD ST E
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7B 6R2
P7C 5K4
1526454 Ontario Limited
Northco Partners Group Inc
601 SQUIER ST
1001 WILLIAM ST SUITE
101B
1184 ROLAND ST SUITE
600
1048 BALMORAL ST
1001 WILLIAM ST SUITE
10lB
1164 ROLAND ST
1154 ROLAND ST
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7B4A7
P7B 6M1
1201 Jasper Dr
750 Tungsten St
1200 Balmoral St
1130 Lithium Dr
1131 Lithium Dr
1131 Alloy Dr
1204 Roland St
1001 William St
Thunder Bay
ON
P7B 5M4
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7B 5T9
P7B 6M1
1184 Roland St
1118 Roland St
1174 Roland St
1001 William St 302
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7B 5M4
P7B 5M4
1164 Roland St
1154 Roland St
739 HAROLD CRES
1001 WILLIAM ST SUITE
lOlB
200 PORTAGE AVE SUITE
403
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7C 5H8
P7B 6MI
1142 Roland St
1134 Roland St
Winnepeg
MB
R3C 3X2
745 Hewitson St, Thunder
Bay, ON
1126 MAHOGANY PL
1001 WILLIAM ST FLOOR 1
BOX 2718 STNM
615 MCLEOD TRAIL S UNIT
700
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Calgary
ON
ON
AB
P7K OA3
P7B 6M1
T2P 3C2
1126 Roland St
615 Sibley Or
1048 Balmoral St
Northco Realty Group Ltd
1062842 Ontario Inc
Northco Management 2000 Inc
1358829 Ontario Ltd.
1062842 Ontario Inc
C/O AUTO HOME PAINTS (THUNDER
BAY) LIMITED
KA Whent Inc
Panda Bay Estates (1990) Ltd
Bank Of Nova Scotia
C/O MAN & NWO CENTR ACCTG
UNIT
988429 Ontario Ltd
Northco Harbour Land Limited
2042728 Ontario Inc
353364
Balmoral Road Reconstruction Property Owners
Mailing List
Aldo-Mar Holdings Ltd
Dunpar Management Ltd
Lakehead Region Conservation
Authority
McBus Holdings Limited
Thunder Bay Husky Travel Centre
353364
BALMORAL COMPLEX
1081 BARTON ST
1095 BARTON ST
PO BOX 10427
Thunder Bay
ON
P7B 5N3
1081 Barton St
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7B 5N3
P7B 6T8
1095 Barton St
958 Balmoral St
1121 BARTON ST
1120 Alloy Dr.
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7B 5N3
P7B 5W3
1121 Barton St
1120 Alloy Dr.
Balmoral Road Reconstruction Property Owners – ROLAND ST & BARTON ST.
Mailing List
Note – this list was sent out on November 24, 2015 (additional property owners added as per the City of Thunder Bay)
Name/Owner
Mastrangelo Fuels
1670747 Ontario Inc
SUNCOR ENERGY PRODUCTS.
PARTNER TAXA
North West Hydraulics Ltd
Norm McKinnon
1796612 Ontario Inc
W Waite Holdings Inc
Pierce Florcraft Ltd
Wolseley Canada Inc
1304827 Ontario Ltd.
1304828 Ontario Ltd.
1902033 Ontario Ltd
Bu Duncan Enterprises Inc
1333440 Ontario Ltd
1526454 Ontario Limited
Northco Realty Group Ltd
1062842 Ontario Inc
1358829 Ontario Ltd.
1062842 Ontario Inc
C/O AUTO HOME PAINTS
(THUNDER BAY)
K A Whent Inc
Panda Bay Estates (1990) Ltd
988429 Ontario Ltd
Northco Realty Group Ltd
2042728 Ontario Inc
Aldo-Mar Holdings Ltd
Dunpar Management Ltd
McBus Holdings Limited
353364
Address
3275 REBECCA AVE
City
Oakville
Prov
ON
PostalCode
L6L 6N5
Re Property
1095 ROLAND ST
1105 ROLAND ST
1125 ROLAND ST
PO BOX 10519
1141 ROLAND ST
880 LAURENTIAN DR
1165 ROLAND ST
THUNDER BAY
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
P7B 5M5
P7B 5M5
P7B 5M5
P7B 6T9
P7B 5M5
L7N 3V6
P7B 5M5
1095 Roland St
1105 Roland St
1173 ROLAND ST
2225 LACEWOOD DR
665 HEWITSON ST
601 SQUIER ST
1184 ROLAND ST SUITE
600
1048 BALMORAL ST
1164 ROLAND ST
1154 ROLAND ST
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
P7B 5M5
P7K 1C4
P7B 5V5
P7B 4A7
P7B 5M4
1173 Roland St
1177 Roland St
1185 Roland St
1204 Roland St
1184 Roland St
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
ON
P7B 5T9
P7B 5M4
P7B 5M4
1174 Roland St
1164 Roland St
1154 Roland St
739 HAROLD CRES
1001 WILLIAM ST
SUITE 101B
1126 MAHOGANY PL
1184 ROLAND ST SUITE
600
BOX 2718 STN M
615 MCLEOD TRAIL S
UNIT 700
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7C 5H8
P7B 6M1
1142 Roland St
1134 Roland St
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7K 0A3
P7B 5M4
1126 Roland St
1118 Roland St
Calgary
AB
T2P 3C2
1048 Balmoral St
BALMORAL COMPLEX
1081 BARTON ST
1095 BARTON ST
1121 BARTON ST
Thunder Bay
ON
P7B 5N3
1081 Barton St
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7B 5N3
P7B 5N3
1095 Barton St
720 Hewitson St
1125 ROLAND ST
1135 Roland St
1141 Roland St
1149 Roland St
1165 Roland St
1121 Barton St
Balmoral Road Reconstruction Property Owners – ROLAND ST & BARTON ST.
Mailing List
Note – this list was sent out on November 24, 2015 (additional property owners added as per the City of Thunder Bay)
2182568 Ontario Inc
Thunder Bay Real Estate Board
The Canadian Red Cross Society
FAT KATS PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT LTD.
Jeffrey James Clara
Clara Real Estate Ltd
Howardson John Jr Trustee
Peterson Elizabeth A Trustee
Habib Ahsanul Trustee
Curans Health Centre Corp
Thunder Bay Husky Travel Centre
353364
394 GERTRUDE AVE
SUITE 301
1135 BARTON ST
5700 CANCROSS CT
1151 BARTON ST SUITE
101
35 JEWELL ST
WINNIPEG
MB
R3L 0M6
1127 Barton St
Thunder Bay
P7B 5N3
L5R 3E9
P7B 5N3
1141 Barton St
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
ON
Thunder Bay
ON
P7A 6H5
1151 Barton St
947 BLIND CREEK DR
Thunder Bay
ON
P7A 0C6
1151 Barton St
169 AUTUMNWOOD DR
1120 Alloy Dr.
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
ON
ON
P7A 3L4
P7B5W3
1165 Barton St
MISSISSAUGA
1145 Barton St
1151 Barton St
1120 Alloy Dr
APPENDIX B: Environmental Assessment Communication Log City of Thunder Bay
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
Environmental Assessment Communication Log
Date
Organization
4-Nov-15
4-Nov-15
4-Nov-15
5-Nov-15
The Balmoral St.
Neighbourhood Group
The Balmoral St.
Neighbourhood Group
Position
Comments / Questions / Concerns
Response Provided
Resident
HMM received an email - Her email reads, Dear Mr. De Luca, I support a Full Roadway
Reconstruction of Balmoral. It is overdue. Thank you for your professional tact and solution to
this much needed improvement.
Reciept of email sent via email.
Representative /
Resident
Came by the office of HMM - his group would like to see both sides of Balmoral include an
active transportation trail. Also indicated a interest in providing input during the design of the
project. Stated he was going to forward information regarding active transportation trails and
also forward a letter that his group had previously submitted to City regarding active
transportation trails in Thunder Bay.
Representative /
Resident
HMM received a followup email regarding above comments (See attached letter written to CTB
regarding multi-use paths, photos of winter multi-use paths from Finland, a triple use path in
Montreal, and a 27m cross section illustrating the suggestions). His main concerns included:
1) Eliminating the need for bikes to cross Balmoral more than once per trip, preventing cyclists
from making bad decisions about where to cross. There are few good places to cross Balmoral To be addressed in the updated Project
and the updated design will not address this deficiency. Crossing cyclists are at risk and disrupt
File
the flow of motor vehicle traffic; 2) Access to businesses on the East side of Balmoral by
cyclists of all ages and abilities (including children); 3) Travel between businesses on the East
side of Balmoral by bike; 4) Enhanced bike route connectivity options for future East-West
expansion.
Resident
HMM received an email - His mail concerns included: 1) Could an active transportation path
exist on both sides of the street; 2) Controlled intersections - very dangerous and the project
does not show any forward thinking around pedestrian or cyclist crossing; 3) Is there anough
traffic throughout the day to support double left turn lanes, working against traffic calming; 4)
Uncontrolled intersections - this has been handled well in other locations throughout the city so
its expected we will see similar road markings and possibly even raised crossings; 5) Is there
more information on intersection design coming; 6) It would be helpful to visualize what the
bus stops would look like along this route - the sidewalk bulbs added recently on Junot are very
nice but are challenging when a cyclist is forced to overtake a stopped bus; 7) Security/Public
Safety - Balmoral is a significant arterial in Thunder Bay. In a lot of ways the preliminary
solution is a much better, safer more public route for everyone who needs to travel across the
city rather then using the existing secluded recreational path along the river. It could only be
enhanced by innovative design supporting an active transportation trail on both sides of the
road and appropriate crossing infrastructure; 8) It does not appear that there are any public
information events scheduled but would be useful considering the likely cost and potential
effects to storm water management, traffic and business.
1 of 17
Explained that his comments will be
reviewed with the City and taken into
consideration.
Response to questions via email on
Nov 9, 2015
6-Nov-15
HMM received an email, the main comments/concerns included: 1) Curbs on both sides of the
road provides us with the height necessary for those in mobility devices, with strollers, and
those with assistive devices to have an easier time boarding due to the almost parallel ramp
deployed from the vehicle; 2) Providing sidewalks connected to each transit stop on both sides
To be addressed in the updated Project
CTB Transit Services Planning & Marketing of the road is preferred to a multi-use trail due to the improved winter maintenance schedule
and clear, delineated paths of travel (or a concrete transit loading zone with paved connection
Division
Analyst
File
to trail if trail is chosen); 3) Private participation in creating paths of travel between sidewalk(s)
and businesses; 4) Install a pedestrian crossover between Beverly and Central to provide
consistent crossing experience; 5) Sizing of concrete apron for bus stop; 6) Provided a link to
a map of current bus stop locations.
9-Nov-15
Red Sky Metis
Independent Nation
Community
Consultant
HMM received an email, the main concern as follows: 1) The increased volume of traffic on the
To be addressed in the updated Project
alternate routes; 2) Accessibility to the businesses in the area; 3) The amount of time it will
take to complete; 4) Requested that an estimate timeline of potential road closures if the Full
File
Roadway Reconstruction would to take place be provided.
9-Nov-15
CTB Parks and Open
Spaces Planning
Supervisor
HMM received an email requesting a hard or electronic copy of the preliminary drawings for
review and indicated that a summary of the comments from Parks and Open Spaces will be
provided upon review of the drawings.
11-Nov-15
12-Nov-15
13-Nov-15
Center for Research
on Safe Driving,
Lakehead University
Auto Home Paints
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: It is imperative that any repairs, upgrades to roads
include multi-use plans, i.e. active transportation or bike lanes, and pedestrian sidewalks. I'm
To be addressed in the updated Project
pleased that this is the preferred option. As a faculty member of Lakehead University who
File
commutes several days a week to the University from May-late October, I have had to cycle on
Balmoral rd on a number of occasions to get to Central Ave. It is a dangerous road for cyclist.
Faculty
HMM received an email, reading as follows: Regarding the Balmoral Street plans, this is the
year 2015 and it is incumbent upon government and citizens to be planning and supporting
more active forms of transport. Thus is is imperative that any upgrades to roads include multiuse plans that physically separate bikes, motor vehicles and pedestrian. The city has done an To be addressed in the updated Project
excellent job with this on Junot recently and I'm pleased that this is the preferred option. As a
File
faculty member of Lakehead University who commutes several days a week to the University, I
have had to cycle on Balmoral rd on a number of occasions to get to Central Ave; it is clearly a
dangerous road for cyclists. I wish you the very best with this planning.
Business Owner
HMM received an email requesting to be included in any further communication and study
findings for the proposed construction of Balmoral St.
2 of 17
CTB responded via email Nov 13/15,
providing link for public comments on
preliminary design options
20-Nov-15
Various Businesses
22-Nov-15
23-Nov-15
23-Nov-15
23-Nov-15
Dave Jones from Auto Home Paints organized a group of interested business owners that
would be affected by the Balmoral Street reconstruction project - meeting took place at Auto
Home Paints with the interested business representatives, CTB & HMM representatives.
Concerns/questions included 1) What is the proposed traffic staging plans during construction; To be addressed in the updated Project
File
2) Concerned with construction activities and the loss of business due to construction
delays/road closures; 3) Concerned with directing traffic to Barton/Roland during construction;
4) The businesses would like to have ample amount of notice prior to any proposed road
closures and/or traffic detours that may affect their businesses.
Lakehead University
Physical Plant
Resident
HMM received an email - his main concerns included: 1) Multi-use trails should be built on
both sides of Balmoral Street to improve access to roads and businesses on both sides of the
street; 2) How the intersections will co-operate with multi-use trail users and cyclists; 3)
Forwarded concerns to the engineering
Thunder Bay drivers do not know how to use right turn ramps, and these ramps do not mix well
department for review and comment on
with bicycles - cyclists end up having to wait for vehicles to use the ramps before crossing even
Nov 22/15
though they have the right-of-way; 4) Suggested removing right turn ramps and integrating
wide radius corners (see attached intersection configuration used in Poland); 5) Widen the
multi-use trail on both sides and remove the sidewalk.
Resident
HMM received an email - main concerns included: 1) The need for an active transportation trail
to along Balmoral from Beverly St to William St on the west side; 2) To preserve the existing
To be addressed in the updated Project
marsh ecosystem in the ditch areas along Balmoral; 3) Sidewalks are not necessary as the
File
trail can be shared; 4) Budgeting for the roads dept. to pave along the curb for winter snow kill
is also not necessary.
Director
HMM received an email, reading as follows: The preferred solution of full roadway
reconstruction including implementation of storm sewer, intersection improvements and
boulevard construction complete with sidewalk and active transportation trail is our preferred
option. The roadway surface does need to be replaced and the addition of storm sewers and
sidewalks/active transportation trails will be a welcome addition to the roadway that abuts our
campus.
Resident
HMM received an email - his main design concerns included: 1) The cost and full extent of the
components of the redesign; 2) Would there be potential to reduce lanes to 3.5m and add
additional green space on the sides of the roads - spaces for storm mitigation or flowerbeds for To be addressed in the updated Project
File
bees/monarch butterflies; 3) Wondering if there has been any talk with Thunder Bay Hydro
about adding means of producing renewable power (small solar panels) to the side of the
roadway; 4) Are there plans/talk regarding future development along this area of Balmoral St.
3 of 17
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
24-Nov-15
CTB Engineering
Division
24-Nov-15
24-Nov-15
26-Nov-15
27-Nov-15
27-Nov-15
CTB Engineering
Division
Days Inn
CTB staff will be meeting to discuss proposed design of Balmoral Street Friday Nov 27/15,
would like a response to the following questions/concerns to discuss in said meeting 1) Current
Level of Service at major intersections for cyclists, pedestrians, transit and automobiles 2)
Target Level of Service for above modes of transportation 3) Which multi-modal Level of
Service measure is HMM using to determine this 4) What is the 85th percentile Level of
Responded to concerns via email
Service for automobiles at major intersections 5) Details of HMM's three-step bicycle facility
Mobility Coordinator
correspondance Nov 24/15 (CTB) and
section process as per Traffic Manual Book 18 6) Draft configuration for pedestrian and cyclist
Nov 25/15 (HMM)
crossings at Harbour Exrpessway, Alloy/Amber & Hewitson/Sibley intersections 7) Proposed
location and alignment of multi-use trail and sidewalk 8) Provide rational/reasoning for
proposing a sidewalk instead of a multi-use trail on the east side of Balmoral 9) Indicate
whether there will be physical trail connections between pedestrian and cyclist facilities and
transit stops.
Resident
In response to previous phone call: 1) Provided a link to a City of Ottawa resource used to aid
in adressing right turn ramp and pedestrian crossing issues (See attached document Pedestrian Intersection Safety Countermeasure Handbook, Pg. 39-41); 2) Suggested visiting
Memorial/Harbour intersection as a pedestrian and crossing every direction to get an idea of
what cyclists experience.
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: I am in support of the full roadway reconstruction
option. Most importantly, I believe that the active transportation trail is important along this
corridor. I often commute on bicycle between downtown Port Arthur and downtown Fort William
To be addressed in the updated Project
and there are no reasonable and safe options between Sixth Ave. and Northern. While the
File
Memorial Link is essential, having an active transportation trail along this stretch of Balmoral
would provide another option crossing the City. I encourage pursuance of active transportation
infrastructure along this route.
Resident
HMM received an email - his main concerns/suggestions included: 1) Adding multi-use trails
on both sides of Balmoral; 2) Adding pedestrian crosswalks ascross the yield lanes
exiting/entering the Expressway - raised crosswalks that are well marked and lit to slow vehicle
To be addressed in the updated Project
traffic; 3) Add pedestrian controlled crosswalks across Balmoral at Alloy/Amber and
File
Sibley/Hewitson intersections and tighten curb radius to slow turning vehicle traffic; 4) Plant
vegetation/trees along the edge of street and incorporate Low Impact Development to manage
runoff; 5) Beutify area by adding park benches, garbage and recycling receptacles.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Additional request for information regarding previous email inquiry (dated Nov 24-15): 1) Do
you have an estimated construction cost for expanding the Balmoral and Harbour Expressway
To be addressed in the updated Project
Mobility Coordinator from its current configuration to the preferred double turning lane configuration; 2) Clarification
File
regarding request related to the 85th percentile Level of Service for automobiles at major traffic
intersections along Balmoral St.
General Manager
A meeting took place at Days Inn with Tracy and Gord from Days Inn and CTB & HMM
representatives. Concerns/questions included: 1) Concerned with access to the Days Inn
To be addressed in the updated Project
during construction and detour routes; 2) Concerned with construction activities and the loss of
File
business due to construction delays/road closures; 3) Concerned with directing traffic to
Barton during construction; 4)
4 of 17
27-Nov-15
29-Nov-15
29-Nov-15
30-Nov-15
1-Dec-15
Resident
HMM received a phone call from xxxxx - her comments/questions included: 1) How are double
lefts determined for an intersection; 2) Concerned with the proposed pedestrian crossing area
To be addressed in the updated Project
at the Balmoral/Harbour intersection, the addtion of extra lanes makes it harder for pedestrians
File
to cross the interesection; 3) Who did the mail outs go to with regards to the proposed
construction?
Resident
HMM received an email, reading the following: I am writing because my family and I are very
interested in using the active transportation lanes on Balmoral Street. We live in between May
To be addressed in the updated Project
and balmoral. We would feel much safer if there were lanest on both sides of the road. As it is
File
now I feel very nervous crossing the very busy road to get home or to the businesses on that
side of the road. Please seriously consider having the two side safe for families and bikers.
Resident
HMM received an email - main comments/concerns include: 1) Concerns with there only being
one active transportation trail and having to cross Balmoral to engage in commerce at
To be addressed in the updated Project
businesses on the East side, especially when utilizing the trail system with his small children;
2) Aside from morning and afternoon rush hours, the turn lanes are rarely backed up enough to
File
justify double turn lanes - wider intersection for pedestrians and cyclists to cross seems to be in
opposition to making active transportation safer and more accessible in the city.
Resident
HMM received an email - his main concerns included: 1) Construct right turn lane going south
off Balmoral St. turning west onto William St. and possibly use right-turn green arrow at this
intersection; 2) Design the placement of the sewers and manholes so they are not in the wheel
track; 3) Investigate the timing of the traffic lights at both William St and Central Ave that
would permit approaching traffic leaving a green light at Balmoral & the Harbour to get a green
To be addressed in the updated Project
light at these intersections; 4) Possibility of making the right turn south off of Balmoral to west
File
onto the Harbour Expressway a true merge lane - find it challenging to enter the higher speed
traffic on the Harbour Expressway; 5) Would it be possible to bury the hydro and other utility
wires that run along Balmoral, they are so unslightly. Perhaps there is funding for some form of
infrastructure resiliency action such as burying hydro lines to protect then from ice storm
damage.
Resident
HMM received an email, which reads as follows: Thank you for inviting public input on the
Balmoral St Redesign. I am a young home owner in the city and want to see our roads
To be addressed in the updated Project
become increasingly safe and usable vehicles, bikes and pedestrians. I support Alternative #4 File
Full Roadway Reconstruction and believe a multi-use trail down the west side is the next best
thing to raised bike lanes on each side of the roadway.
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CTB Parks and Open
Spaces Planning
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1-Dec-15
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1-Dec-15
Faculty of Education,
Lakehead University
Supervisor
HMM received an email outlining the comments from the CTB Parks & Open Spaces Section
(See attached document). Main concerns/suggestings included: 1) Discrepancies &
agreeances with existing conditions; 2) Alternative planning solution recommendations; 3)
Preferred planning alternative design regarding traditional grey infrastructure; 4) Ambiguities
with regards to landscaped boulevards; 5) Recommendations to include all adjecent city
owned lands into study area; 6) Recommendations & suggestions on tree and vegtation
planting; 7) Incorporating green infrastructure; 8) General design elements and
considerations, including multi-use trail recommendations, commuter cyclists, accessibility
considerations and maintenance considerations.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email - her main concerns included: 1) Putting a multi-use trail on each side
of Balmoral St. to make the current system more functional; 2) Based on the current drawing
for the Harbour Expressway I am very concerned for the safety of cyclists and pedestrians. If To be addressed in the updated Project
the trail is only on one side of the street people will try crossing at unsafe areas or will ride with
File
or against traffic due to the inconvenience of the trail being only accessible on one side. Please
when you think of active transportation think of convenience just like you do for motorists.
Resident
HMM received an email, reading the following: I support Alternative #4 - Full Roadway
Reconstruction with a multi-use trail down the west side, but there should be raised bike lanes
on each side of the roadway. I am troubled by the lack of a safe pedestrian crossing at
Balmoral and Sibley/Hewitson though and would like to see a controlled intersection there to
allow students and workers in the area easier access to shopping and restaurants in the
intercity area.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Adjunct Professor
HMM received an email, reading the following: I support Alternative #4 - Full Roadway
Reconstruction and believe a multi-use trail down the west side is the next best thing to raised
bike lanes on each side of the roadway.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email, the main concerns included: 1) Comparing the proposed design to a
study titled 'Narrower Lanes, Safer Streets,' the lanes proposed by the design are far too wide
and rather unsafe. The study recommends the lanes should be reduced to 3.3m for both inner
and outer lanes and turn lanes should be reduced to 2.8m. This reduced width would force
drivers to travel at slower speeds closer to the posted speed limit; 2) There is also no bike
lanes, but rather an active transport trail in the current design. With limited drive way access to
balmoral it would make much more sense to build a segregated cycle route on the western side To be addressed in the updated Project
of the road. By reducing the lane widths to 3.3m for all 4 lanes a cycle route could be built
File
along the western side for little to no additional cost; 3) The intersection plans do not include
any planned interaction other than how cars interact. Pedestrian crossings, and cyclists
integration needs to be designed into how intersections operate; 4) I would also like to see a
pedestrian crossings midway between most of the intersections as there is nearly a half KM
between most intersections and crossing at any other location is illegal. These long gaps
between intersections must be bridged with cross walks so people can safely walk in the area.
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Fresh Air
Resident
HMM received an email, his main concerns included: 1) I am in favour of the Full Roadway
Reconstruction option because, although it will undoubtedly be the most expensive option (at
least in the short-run), it is the only one that truly addresses the need for this corridor to be a
safe one for non-auto-mobile users; 2) I do not agree with building additional lanes at the
Harbour Expressway intersection. Providing more space at the intersections induces demand
for car-centric transportation. Additionally, additional lanes increases the hazard for pedestrians
(including those in wheelchairs) and cyclists as they have a greater span of intersection to
To be addressed in the updated Project
cross; 3) I would like to see the active transportation route be constructed on both sides of
File
Balmoral. I believe that it is important to have the active transportation be as accessible as
possible and given that there are long stretches of Balmoral without intersections and/or
crosswalks, I believe it is a necessary convenience and safety measure to have the AT routes
on both sides; 4) I believe that beautification through landscaping and greenery, as well as
attractive street-lighting, is vital. Trees and shrubs, in addition to being attractive, can provide
pedestrians with a sense of protection (physical barrier) from vehicular traffic. Treed boulevards
to separate auto-mobiles and active transportation should be a component of the redesign.
Resident
HMM received an email, his main concerns included: 1) I urge you to remove dual left turn
lanes in all quadrants from the design for the Harbour Expressway and Balmoral intersection
and maintain a single left turn lane in all quadrants; 2) Provide active transportation facilities
on both sides of Balmoral; 3) Carefully consider the needs of all users in the design of the
intersections.
Community
Engagement Mgr
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
HMM received an email, their main concerns included: 1) The biggest need has been a north
/south lane that allows residents to travel between the two cores or the residential areas to the
institutional centres. Balmoral St lends itself to a multi-use trail and sidewalk. We applaud your
To be addressed in the updated Project
task of looking at this; 2) Would it not be safer, cheaper and more useful to have a multi-use
File
trail on both sides; 3) From Sibley Dr, if there was a merge ramp heading east bound, it would
allow vehicle traffic to head East,or North to access Balmoral without having to turn left at
Sibley and Hewitson, reducing stress at this intersection; 4) If the east side of Balmoral’s
sidewalk or multi use trail went as far as Norah Crescent, safety would be enhanced.
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: I believe that it is incredibly important to start
restructuring our city to make it more active transport friendly, reducing our reliance on fossil
fuels in order to navigate the city. I support Alternative #4 - Full Roadway Reconstruction and
believe a multi-use trail down the west side is the next best thing to raised bike lanes on each
side of the roadway.
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: I favour the full reconstruction, especially
To be addressed in the updated Project
sidewalks and active transportation corridors. Would also like to see storm water catchment
and treatment areas using wetlands, seating areas along the active transportation corridors and
File
energy efficient and wild life friendlier down lighting. Please add me to the email list.
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To be addressed in the updated Project
File
1-Dec-15
1-Dec-15
1-Dec-15
School of Outdoor
Recreation, Parks &
Tourism, Lakehead
University
Eye Care Center
Faculty
HMM received an email, his concerns included: 1) The project should extend further south to
Arthur St. as that part of the street also needs attention; 2) I do not see a need to double left
turn lanes at the Harbour Expressway; 3) I like the idea of the partial medians at Alloy and
To be addressed in the updated Project
Hewiston. It will eliminate or reduce the left turns onto Balmoral that are at times dangerous.
File
Trucks leaving the Husky station often bully their way onto Balmoral making left turns.
However, if they cannot make that left turn, they will be forced to make left turns onto Alloy,
Tungsten and Central to get to Balmoral. Tungsten St, in particular is not suitable for increased
truck traffic as it is narrow and in poor repair.
Optometrist
HMM received an email, her comments/concerns included: 1) I support the current preliminary
preferred solution of a full roadway reconstruction. In particular I welcome the planned
sidewalks and active transportation paths for improved safety and convenience for pedestrians,
To be addressed in the updated Project
cyclists and motorists; 2) Accessing the nearby bus stops from the west side of Balmoral
currently requires walking to the Harbour intersection or crossing the street which is difficult
File
and not very safe; 3) This is an opportunity to make Balmoral Street more walkable, more
accessible for cyclists, to apply "low-impact development" or LID principles to storm water
management and to enhance the area’s aesthetics.
Resident
HMM received an email, his comments/concerns included: 1) There are numerous other
intersections along this corridor of which nothing is mentioned. For example, what is proposed
at Jasper Drive, Lithium Drive, Central Avenue and William Street; 2) There is mention made
of no unusual plant species but no mention of the existing wildlife corridor and how, or, if
wildlife/vehicular collisions will be mitigated or even addressed; 3) Is it anticipated that the
proposed construction can in fact be constructed within the existing r-o-w or is property
acquisition anticipated; 4) There is no mention of existing or future traffic volumes but design
proposals to accommodate heavy(?) traffic volumes (left turns). There is no mention of collision
To be addressed in the updated Project
statistics to support planning (design) proposals. Are there plans to mitigate collision
File
experience; 5) Design proposals appear to be more restrictive to existing traffic patterns,
forcing traffic along existing unsuitable municipal streets. There is no mention of the impact on
these other municipal roads or improvements required to support increased traffic and heavy
loads; 6) The proximity of intersections to the Harbour Expressway suggests that other
alternatives should be considered or at least evaluated, such as closure, right in right out, or
relocating intersections further downstream; 7) Is there a potential for a left turn lane(s) turning
into a two-way left tun lane to accommodate turning manouvres; 8) Please keep me informed
and add me to the mailing list.
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Resident
HMM received an email with additional questions as listed: 1) Has the double turning lanes on
Golf Links improved safety or made it worse; 2) Does making roads wider or providing
additional lanes increase safety; 3) How long is Thunder Bay's rush hour; 4) How will
uncontrolled intersections be handled along Balmoral given the new infrastructure; 5) How will
off-ramp crossings be handled for the Harbour Expressway with the added multi-use trail and
sidewalk; 6) What is the estimated increase to transit load if the additional pedestrian and
cyclist infrastructure is put in place; 7) How will storm water be improved / managed with the
addition of more impermeable surfaces (sidewalk, multiuse trail, additional turning lanes); 8)
The Harbour Expressway intersection needs serious design consideration – the pedestrian
point of view is Ramp, Median, Lane, Lane, Turning Lane, Turning Lane, Middle Median, Lane,
Lane, Median, Ramp, Relief as you reach the safety of a multi-use trail again.
CTB responded via email on Dec 3,
2015
Resident
HMM received an email, which reads as follows: I support Alternative #4 - Full Roadway
Reconstruction and believe a multi-use trail down the west side is the next best thing to raised
bike lanes on each side of the roadway. Thank you for considering my input as somebody that
would like to bicycle year round on Balmoral.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email, her comments/concerns included: 1) Pedestrian lighting - If you are
having street light poles facing traffic, I see no reason why the wiring could not be done at the
same time to accommodate lighting on the pedestrian/cycling side, making it safer for all
trail/sidewalk users. 2) If using LED lighting, after the initial set up costs, I would suspect
operating costs would be insignificant.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: I support Alternative #4 - Full Roadway
Reconstruction and believe a multi-use trail down the west side is the next best thing to raised
bike lanes on each side of the roadway.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email, his comments included: 1) I am very pleased to see that an active
transportation route has been incorporated into the design. I think it is imperative that providing
actual lane(s) for cyclist in the design as the standard for any major transportation routes in the
To be addressed in the updated Project
city; 2) Further, in the warmer weather I frequently commute to work via bicycle traveling on
the path though the university/college/Chapples. I will definitely use the proposed active
File
transportation route to commute to work; 3) I appreciate the City's efforts to create painted
bike lanes on a number of streets in the past years. I applaud your consideration in creating
actual lane(s) in this design.
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Thunder Bay District
Health Unit
Director of Health
Promotion
HMM received a letter via email (See attached), indicating that TBDHU supports and
commends the Preferred Planning Alternative 4: Full Roadway Reconstruction but has the
following comments/concerns: 1) Consider sidewalks on both sides of Balmoral Street, with
additional dedicated cycling facilities. The municipality is obliged to comply with the standards
outlined in the AODA for a redevelopment that will reach substantial completion after Jan 1,
2016. Using a multiuse trail on the west side of Balmoral does not meet the needs of the
To be addressed in the updated Project
community, as there is a need for functional travel at all time, efficient access to bus stops, and
File
reliability of a winter maintenance schedule; 2) Reconsider the need for double left-turning
lanes at the intersection of Balmoral Street and the Harbour Expressway; 3) Consider a
pedestrian crossover between Beverly Street and Central Avenue; 4) Consider extending the
sidewalk/multiuse trail on Balmoral Street to connect with the sidewalk on William Street, or
negotiate a cost-share alternative with TBDHU to improve connectivity and enable pedestrian
to access the west side (entrance) of TBDHU.
A meeting took place between the CTB and the Accessibility Advisory Committee on
December 1, 2015. The following recommendations were presented: 1) At bus stop locations,
the importance of curbs for bus mobility devices and hard surface pads (preferably concrete)
are a requirement for safe access to buses; 2) Consideration should be given to direct
connection from trails or sidewalks to bus stops and if possible to business along the Balmoral
corridor 3) Sidewalks or multiuse trail should be installed level with the surrounding ground.
Small lips can cause mobility devices to get stuck or tip; 4) Some separation should be
provided between sidewalk or multiuse trails and curbs or steep slopes. Close proximity to
curbs or steep slopes near walking trails can be a hazard for those using mobility devices
Original Minutes provided by M. Vogrig
causing users to topple or get stuck. Extra attention needs to paid near traffic when a chair can
at CTB on Dec 2/15; Scott Garner sent
tip over into traffic; 5) Sidewalk Ramps should be installed with a tactile surface similar to the
his version with additional comments
new ramps installed at May street. This is a requirement of the new AODA guidelines. In
Dec 4/15
addition, similar treatment should be given to asphalt ramps so the visually impaired can tell
whether or not they are entering a street or are on an asphalt trail. Concrete sidewalks are
preferred as they are more visible and easier to differentiate from asphalt roads; 6) Ramp
locations should be clearly defined, in particular their edges as mobility devices can tip if they
go over the curb section. Wider is better; 7) Ramps should be placed parallel to the lane of
travel/crossing. Visually impaired persons may cross diagonally if ramp sections are created
around an entire radius; 8) At intersection crossings, audible pedestrian signal are a must; 9)
Tactile surface indicators should also be placed squarely to the lane of travel to avoid diagonal
crossing at an intersection by persons with visual impairment.
Accessibility Advisory
Committee
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: I support Alternative #4 - Full Roadway
Reconstruction and believe a multi-use trail down the west side is the next best thing to raised
bike lanes on each side of the roadway. But to be SAFER, the multi-use trail should be
physically separated from the roadway. That would make drivers and cyclists/roller
bladers/wheelchair users much more comfortable.
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To be addressed in the updated Project
File
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
Walkability Committee
Resident
HMM received an email, her comments read as follows: The harbour expressway and
balmoral form part of my route to work each morning. Each morning I curse the drivers heading
west on the harbour that turn south into balmoral into the wrong lane in order to turn into Tim
Hortons. There is no proper turning or lane changing and traffic routinely backs up on the ramp.
It is my submission that this needs to be alleviated with the redesign. I suggest eliminating that
entrance altogether as it is too close to the intersection in the first place and is quite hazardous.
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: Quick note to let you know that after reading the
details regarding this project I support Alternative number 4 which includes a well designed
active transportation trail.
Chair
HMM recieved a letter via email (see attached), the comments/concerns included: 1) Preferred
exterior walkway option is a multiuse trail on both sides, also having a sidewalk on the east
side. It is imperative that the City ensures that any multiuse trail, where it is serving the purpose
of a sidewalk along this arterial, is maintained as a sidewalk throughout the winter; 2) Improve
the connectivity by ensuring transit stops are in close proximity and physically connected to
trail/sidewalks, and provide walkways into existing businesses; 3) In regards to pedestrian
lighting, pedestrian-scale lighting should be installed in addition to proposed street lights if
spillover from street lights is not enough to illuminate pedestrian paths and install lighting at all
transit stops; 4) Consider the placement of a pedestrian crossover between Beverly and
Central (1.2km stretch). During the reconstruction of Balmoral Street, include any electrical
provisions to be able to easily install a crossover at a future date. After the reconstruction is
complete, conduct a study to determine the best location for pedestrian crossover in terms of
safety and meeting the needs of the community; 5) Consider longer pedestrian crossing
To be addressed in the updated Project
signals at intersections, countdown pedestrian crossing signals, audible pedestrian crossing
File
signals, automatic pedestrian signals at intersections, pedestrian crossing islands, rest areas
throughout the length of the corridor (The City should consult with the Accessibility Advisory
Committee to determine appropriate rest areas), ramped curbs on sidewalks at intersections to
improve accessibility for pedestrians using mobility devices; 6) Green infrastructure/vegetation
considerations - the use of Low Impact Development Stormwater Management elements,
include diverse vegetation and trees, not only on boulevards but also consider the use of
vegetation on medians; 7) Harbour Expressway intersection considerations - reconsider the
need for double-turning lanes at this intersection, and if the intersection is increased to six
lanes, consider pedestrian refuge medians in the intersection and safer merging lanes (smaller
curb radii); 8) Additional safety concerns include: establish a consistent speed limit throughout
the corridor (50km/h), include well-marked pedestrian/cyclist crossing facilities where multiuse
trail(s) cross intersections, install raised and marked crosswalks for pedestrians across merge
lanes at the intersection of Balmoral Street and Harbour Expressway, reconstruct the
intersections of Sibley/Hewitson & Balmoral and Alloy & Balmoral with smaller curb radii.
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Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: Option 4 - I don't know about the strategy to
change the actual road way but I do know that sidewalks or oversized trails providing access to
Ontarioworks, and other social offices, as well as the hospital and L.U. and the Jasper Court
Area are really needed. Now and then a poor fellow in a wheel chair tries to navigate Balmoral
and its terrifying. I live in downtown FW. and would like the opportunity to walk to work but
frankly its hazardous. Please move ahead to supply a means for pedestrian traffic, not just
bikes, to have safe access. I have sent alderman this request over the years and am very
happy to see that this is being considered.
Resident
HMM received an email, comments/concerns included: 1) I am glad that your group is
considering the 4th alternative or the preferred planning alternative design; 2) Lighting on the
trail - a trail with lighting will help keep cyclists and walkers off the roadways but allow them to
see the trail in front of them; 3) Rest areas along the way can be a great addition especially for
those students walking back from the Superstore to LU with bags of groceries; 4) Connections
to the local businesses so bikers and pedestrians can access them; 5) Ensuring winter plowing
allows the season to be extended and recreation and commuting to continue year round; 6) I
support the ideas of both pedestrian crossovers and green space and vegetation additions.
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CTB, Parks and Open
Space Planning
SUCCI
Urban Forest
Program Specialist
President
A meeting amongst EarthCare's Community Greening Working Group was held on Nov 24/15
(See attached document), comments/concerns included: 1) The Project File does not identify
Green Infrastructure (GI) as an opportunity in the Project File. The main area of concern for the
Working Group was consistently related to the absence of GI in the proposed road
reconstruction. We would like to see GI incorporated into the road reconstruction plans from
the outset; 2) The Working Group questioned where the new storm sewer outlet would be
located and how the water would be treated. We recommend that the Stormwater Master Plan
be referenced to determine how to effectively incorporate GI into the design as the primary
infrastructure being used for localized stormwater management; 3) We would like GI to be
identified clearly as an opportunity on the Balmoral Street Project File as there are numerous
benefits; 4) We would like the Project File to incorporate the Urban Forest Management Plan,
the Storm Water Master Plan draft, the EarthCare Sustainability Plan, the Accessibility Plan,
the Urban Design Guidelines, alongside the Active Transportation Plan and the Clean, Green &
Beautiful policy, during the planning of this project; 5) We recommend that a greater level of
study be undertaken that will not overlook the existence and benefits of the wetland habitat and
ecosystem that is situated along the adjacent ditches and low lying areas, which have been
identified for drainage and burial; 6) We recommend that trees be planted on both sides of the
corridor on the far side of the recreation trail and sidewalk, rather than being planted as a buffer
directly beside the street. Some trees or shrubs may be planted in a GI boulevard that is
designed to deal with the salt conditions on this boulevard; 7) We recommend that the
Accessibility Plan and the Active Transportation Plan be referred to for guidance on BMP
designs that will help to support accessibility and safety for pedestrians and cyclists of all ages
and abilities at this intersection. We also recommend that GI in the form of LID be installed in
and around the Harbour Expressway intersection, to manage storm water runoff as close to the
source as possible, rather than sending it into the storm sewer; 8) We recommend that onstreet cycling facilities be installed to meet the needs of commuter cyclists, who do not belong
on recreational trails. This could take the form of elevated cycle tracks, separated bike lanes, or
as a last resort painted bike lanes; 9) We would like to see ‘landscaped boulevards’ be
replaced with “Green Infrastructure,” where it will be possible to incorporate LID, permeable
soils, and appropriate species of trees, shrubs, perennials, and other impermeable surfaces
that will be able to withstand the salt conditions along this corridor; 10) We would like to
recommend the following cross-section design, from left to right, facing north: Swale -> Trees > AT Trail -> Lighting & Salt tolerant GI -> Cycle Track -> Road -> Cycle Track -> Salt tolerant
GI -> Sidewalk -> Tree planting -> Swale.
HMM received an email, reading as follows: I have previously endorsed the Balmoral Street
Neighborhood presentation, but felt it didn't go far enough to safely connect students and staff
at Confederation College to Balmoral street. Currently there are no sidewalks on Sibley Drive,
or William Street for people to safely access the businesses located on Balmoral street in that
area from the college. It would be great if the multi use pathway could safely connect the
campus to the proposed new trail along Balmoral street.
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Resident
HMM received an email, her main comments/concerns included: 1) Multi use path on both
sides, at best on the west side linking up with the multiuse trail near cameron street and
Balmoral leading into Chapels, with sidewalk on East side; 2) Safe pedestrian crosswalks at
major intersections as well as on longer stretches with no stoppages for cars; 3) Decrease in
the turning radius' at intersections to encourage drivers to slow down and give pedestrians the
rite of way; 4) More greening, planting trees, local species and low impact development to
manage storm water; 5) Include garbage cans and park benches for people to rest which will
allow people to walk farther distances or wait while their 3 year old is having a meltdown.
2-Dec-15
Resident
HMM received an email, her comments/concerns included: 1) Active transportation on both
sides of the road are a necessity, even if it involves cycle and pedestrian traffic moving
together; 2) It is very difficult for cyclists to operate like vehicles (as they are required to by
To be addressed in the updated Project
law) if they need to cross a road but are salmoning up that road against traffic. For example,
File
with the active transport route on the west side of balmoral, if I am travelling north on my bike
and have to cross traffic to get to a side street like hewitson, how do I safely navigate the traffic
flow when I am biking against the nearest lane of cars?
2-Dec-15
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: While my preference for Balmoral would be a
To be addressed in the updated Project
raised bike lane on each side of Balmoral, of the options presented #4 with a 3 m wide multiuse
File
trail is strongly preferable.
Resident
CTB received an email, comments/concerns included: 1) I agree with some version of "Option
4", which would include "Active Transportation" options; 2) I don't know that there is a
necessity for a 'path" on both sides, but definitely a need on the west side. Cannot a common,
wider path serve pedestrians and cyclists; 3) Would be nice to be able to take sidewalk to busstop in winter; 4) The businesses which back onto Balmoral between William St. and
Sibley/Hewitson all face onto a side street, so don't need sidewalk access on both sides,
perhaps; 5) Problem is, unless new lights are added, the busy street prevents people from
crossing to access the rec trail if they're walking on side that doesn't have the rec-trail/sidewalk;
6) The area is also lacking in sidewalks for students of College to get to Intercity area, as I
recall. I think students deserve better!! They are our future, and we should make them safe and
welcome; 7) A trail, AWAY FROM ROADWAY is the right option. A white line does not give
me the feeling of safety; 8) Im also curious as to what is meant by "restriction of east/west
movements" on the drawings of the Alloy/Amber and other intersection; 9) I do not see a new
traffic light. Are any new lights proposed; 10) Is there a public meeting being held?
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
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To be addressed in the updated Project
File
CTB responded via email on Dec 2,
2015
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
Resident
HMM received an email, comments/concerns included: 1) Both pedestrians and cyclists need
to be accommodated on both sides of the road. Separating pedestrians and cyclists be
providing infrastructure for both, either in the form of bike lanes in addition to sidewalks, or
multiuse trails with signage indicating proper usage to reduce the likelihood of collisions (i.e.
walking traffic stay right, cyclists pass on left, etc.) be incorporated into the design; 2) Multiuse
trails should be maintained year round as they will serve as linkages between transit and
business areas; 3) Lighting should be positioned to service both the road and the implemented To be addressed in the updated Project
multiuse trails and sidewalks; 4) Consider the use of Low Impact Development Storm Water
File
Management elements and include diverse vegetation (preferably native species) and trees
throughout the development; 5) The project should include basic amenities to service the
anticipated increase in pedestrian usage of this route, including, but not limited to benches,
sheltered rest/transit stops and waste/recycling receptacles for litter prevention. Site
preparation may be necessary for these installations and should be considered at the time of
reconstruction.
Resident
HMM received an email, comments/concerns included: 1) Grade separated bike lanes on both
sides of Balmoral to make cycling easier; 2) Sidewalks on both sides with pedestrian
crosswalks at intersections to encourage, and make is safer for, people to walk; 3) Changing
To be addressed in the updated Project
the wide turn radius at intersections, preventing high speed turns by vehicles; 4) More
File
trees/plantings and Low Impact Development to manage storm water; 5) Park benches and
garbage/recycling recepticles to create a people friendly space; 6) Dedicated transit corridor
for future Bus Rapid Transit use.
Resident
HMM received an email, her main comments/concerns included: 1) I am pleased to see that
there will be sidewalks and multiuse trails in the new design; 2) At the Harbour Expressway
intersection, the plan to build double turn lanes is not safe for pedestrians, cyclists or vehicles;
3) There needs to be a multiuse trail on both sides to accomodate both pedestrians and
cyclists, to allow them to travel northbound safely and access amenities and streets on the east
side not near a controlled crossing (stoplight); 4) It is critical that there be a sidewalk linking
businesses close to intersections to the intersections - demonstrated by the trail worn by
pedestrians through the ditch linking Montanas to the Harbour, and from the Harbour to the
To be addressed in the updated Project
Royal Bank builidng, from the Harbour onto the Keg/Bank of Nova Scotia area; 5)
File
Intersections at Alloy, Central, Lithium, Jasper, Hewitson, William, Forest, etc. need to be
designed with the pedestrian and cyclist in mind. There needs to be a right angle curb so that
there is the narrowest distance for pedestrians and cyclists to cross the intersection (eg.
Arundel and West Lyon Blvd south side of Blvd. Lake); 6) Transit stops need to be
incorporated into the design, and there needs to be a study on key destinations in the area
around Alloy drive to ensure that people who take transit from the north or south can safely
access those destinations on the opposite side of Balmoral; 7) Please add me to your mailing
list.
Resident
HMM received an email, comments/concerns included: 1) Please, please, please incorporate
some sort of separated bike/walking path into your plans. The need for more active, safe
active transportation routes are IMPERITIVE; 2) It would be nice if the paths connected to the
LU/College recreation paths somehow, but if that can not be done at least have a path that
bikers/hikers can travel down Balmoral safely; 3) Lights would be really, really nice and some
trees (similar to Golf Links).
15 of 17
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email, comments/concerns included: 1) I love the idea of including active
transportation routes to the construction plans; 2) Will there be lights on both sides of Balmoral To be addressed in the updated Project
that will allow pedestrians/bikes to cross safely at Alloy Drive and Hewitson/Sibley Drive; 3)
File
Will there be adequate lighting on the bike path?
Resident
HMM received a phone call from Morley - comments/concerns included: 1) Possible
implementation of roundabouts at the Harbour-Balmoral intersection; 2) Install count down
traffic lights to improve driver awareness (used in Europe).
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: I wanted to let it be known that as a resident of
Thunder Bay who is looking to become a more active cyclist, that I support alternative # 4, the
full roadway reconstruction, as I believe that a multi-use trail on the west side is the next best
thing to raised bike lanes on each side of the roadway.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
Resident
HMM received an email, comments/concerns included: 1) Trees should be installed to line the
entire route, two-wide if possible, and on both sides of the street; 2) Light-Industrial
Development should line the area between the street and sidewalk and between the street and
active transportation route; 3) The existing sections of cat-tails (north of Harbour Expwy on the
east side) should be left intact and expanded as part of the LID; 4) It is very important to
include the sidewalk and active transportation pathway, as is proposed; 5) I don't see a need To be addressed in the updated Project
to expand to double turning lanes, unless this has been proven by a traffic study. Resources
File
should be spent on integrating pedestrian access and native vegetation; 6) Adequate
crosswalks need to be installed along Balmoral St. in the major intersections, and potentially a
pedestrian crosswalk) with a short stop signal for traffic) for pedestrians crossing Balmoral St.
(especially College and University pedestrian traffic) near the Alloy Drive intersection; 7) I am
very supportive of reconstructing this route.
3-Dec-15
Resident
HMM received an email, reading as follows: Regarding the improvements to Balmoral Street
from the floodway to Beverly Street, I hope that the city will be incorporating active
To be addressed in the updated Project
transportation planning, especially in bicycle infrastructure along the route. Balmoral Sterrt is a
File
critical north/south link for bicycling in the city connecting major businesses like the College,
University and TBRHSC. Please include my comments in your assessment.
4-Dec-15
CTB Employee /
Resident
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
2-Dec-15
HMM/CTB received an email, reading as follows: One of the suggestions I am going to make
is that we install a traffic circle at one of the intersections. Please give that some thought.
16 of 17
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
4-Dec-15
4-Dec-15
16-Dec-15
17-Dec-15
27-Jan-16
Resident
EarthCare Water
Working Group
Chair
HMM received an email, comments/concerns included: 1) Please provide provision for both
walking and cycling, separated from auto traffic, on both sides of the road. A bike/walking trail
on one side of the road only is not practical; 2) Please pay careful attention to intersections.
These are just as important as the trails themselves and highly dangerous, with or without
lights; 3) Trails must be on both sides of a road, with special attention paid to intersections. If
not a very dangerous situation is being constructed due to stray cyclists and pedestrians
crossing the roads at random points because the intersections, in reality, are not safe or it is
too far between intersections to be practical for pedestrians, especially elderly pedestrians; 4)
As work continues to develop trails, please pay attention not only to the trails, but to access
points to and from the trail, especially at major businesses and institutions and also at
intersections/street crossings, which are extremely dangerous.
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
HMM received a letter via email (see attached), comments/concerns included: 1) We request
that stormwater management be identified as a concern that needs to be adressed for this
Project; 2) Please develop a comprehensive stormwater management plan that will adress
water quality impacts and identify areas for improvement; 3) Please identify and evaluate
To be addressed in the updated Project
areas where green infrastructure can be incorporated within the Balmoral Street road corridor;
File
4) Please develop an erosion and sediment control plan to control the potential for increased
erosion and sediment during construction; 5) Generally, we support the Preferred Planning
Alternative Design, however it appears that stormwater management and water protection has
been overlooked and needs to be incorporated into the Project.
EarthCare Advisory
Committee
HMM received a letter via email (see attached) requesting that the design consider the
following: 1) Stormwater management that includes Low Impact Development (LID) and green
infrastructure to increase infiltration, enhance water quality, and decrease risks associated with
To be addressed in the updated Project
Chair & Sustainability
severe weather; 2) Green infrastructure, tree, and vegetation for beautification and other coFile
Coordinator
benefits; 3) Adequate cycling and pedestrian infrastructure to encourage sustainable modes of
transportation that are safe including adequate pedestrian lighting on both sides of street, rest
areas, and garbage recepticles.
CTB Engineering
Division
HMM received a letter via email (see attached document), comments/concerns included: 1)
General design recommendations for signalized intersections; 2) Harbour Expressway and
Balmoral Street intersection design recommendations; 3) Balmoral Street and Central Avenue
To be addressed in the updated Project
intersection design recommendations; 4) Balmoral Street and Central Avenue intersection
Mobility Coordinator
design recommendations; 5) Balmoral Street and Jasper Drive intersection design
File
recommendations; 6) The inclusion of pedestrian crossovers; 7) Incorporating a multi-use trail
on both sides of the roadway; 8) Trail lighting; 9) Crossride implementation for unsignalized
intersections; 10) General design considerations.
Husky Travel Center
General Manager
HMM spoke with GM of the Husky via phone, comments included: 1) Ensuring the detour
routes would not have weight restrictions for truck traffic; 2) Maintaining access to both
entrances of the business on Alloy Drive; 3) Wanted to know the approximate timeframe that
the construction would impact the business area.
Notes:
Acronyms used throughout the table are as follows;
HMM - Hatch Mott MacDonald
CTB - City of Thunder Bay
17 of 17
To be addressed in the updated Project
File
APPENDIX C: Preliminary Design Drawings and Concepts Existing Active
Transportation
Route
PRO
Proposed Active
Transportation
Route
JECT
LIMI
T
BEVERLY ST
±
SP
JA
Existing
Sidewalk - ATT
to Tie Into
ER
DR
LITHIUM DR
Proposed Active
Transportation
Route
CENTRAL AVE
Proposed Active
Transportation
Route
INTERSECTION
IMPROVEMENTS
(PARTIAL MEDIAN)
ALLOY DR
AM
BER
DR
INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS
(IMPLEMENTATION OF
DOUBLE LEFT-TURNS)
SSW AY
HARBOUR EXPRE
HEWITSON
SIBLEY DR
INTERSECTION
IMPROVEMENTS
(PARTIAL MEDIAN)
Proposed Active
Transportation
Route
Proposed Active
Transportation
Route
Existing Active
Transportation
Route
Existing Active
Transportation
Route
WILLIAM ST
Nee
b in
g
Flo /McIn
odw
ty
ay re
PROJECT LIMIT
Imagery Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, i-cubed, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstop, and the GIS User Community
OVERALL
STUDY PLAN
City of Thunder Bay
Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
from the Neebing/McIntyre Floodway
to Beverly Street
PRO
JECT
LIMI
T
BEVERLY ST
±
SP
JA
ER
DR
Bioretention /
Biofiltration
Swale and Salt /
Climate Tolerant
Vegetation
LITHIUM DR
CENTRAL AVE
Bioretention /
Biofiltration
Swale and Salt /
Climate Tolerant
Vegetation
ALLOY DR
E
B
M
A
R
D
R
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
IN MEDIANS WITH SALT
TOLERANT VEGETATION
SSW AY
HARBOUR EXPRE
HEWITSON
SIBLEY DR
Bioretention /
Biofiltration
Swale and Salt /
Climate Tolerant
Vegetation
WILLIAM ST
BEAUTIFICATION &
LANDSCAPING
CONCEPTUAL PLAN
FLOODWAY TO
WILLIAM ST - EXISTING
DITCHES TO REMAIN
Nee
b in
g
Flo /McIn
odw
ty
ay re
PROJECT LIMIT
Imagery Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, i-cubed, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstop, and the GIS User Community
City of Thunder Bay
Class Environmental Assessment
Balmoral Street Reconstruction
from the Neebing/McIntyre Floodway
to Beverly Street