3. DOWNTOWN RIDEAU LOCAL AREA PARKING STUDY

ÉTUDE SUR LE STATIONNEMENT LOCAL DANS LE SECTEUR

CENTRE-VILLE RIDEAU

Committee RecommendationS AS AMENDED

That Council:

1. Receive the Downtown Rideau Local Area Parking Study Summary Report (Document 1);

2. Direct staff to pursue opportunities to secure short term, publicly available off-street parking in the Rideau Street area, in the general vicinity of Cumberland Street and King Edward Avenue; and,

3. Direct staff to continue to work with stakeholders with respect to on-street parking on Rideau Street in the Business Improvement Area (BIA), during evenings and weekends.

4. Approve that no change be made to current parking conditions on Rideau Street, but that future opportunities be explored in conjunction with the Rideau Street reconstruction.

RecommandationS modifiéeS du comité

Que le Conseil :

1. Prenne connaissance du rapport de l’étude sur le stationnement local dans le secteur Centre-ville Rideau (document 1);

2. Donne instruction au personnel de rechercher des possibilités de stationnement public hors rue de courte durée dans le secteur de la rue Rideau, plus précisément dans le voisinage de la rue Cumberland et de l’avenue King Edward; et,

3. Donne instruction au personnel de continuer à collaborer avec les parties prenantes relativement aux possibilités de stationnement sur la rue Rideau, dans le secteur de la ZAC, le soir et la fin de semaine.

4. Approuve qu’aucune modification ne soit apportée aux conditions de stationnement actuelles sur la rue Rideau, mais que l’on examine des possibilités futures dans le cadre de la reconstruction de la rue Rideau.

Documentation

1. Deputy City Manager, City Operations report dated 29 June 2011 (ACS2011-COS-PWS-0011).

2. Extract of Draft Minute, 29 June 2011.

Report to / Rapport au :

Transportation Committee

Comité des transports

and Council / et au Conseil

29 June 2011 / le 29 juin 2011

Submitted by / Soumis par :

Steve Kanellakos, Deputy City Manager / Directeur municipal adjoint

City Operations / Opérations municipales

Contact Person / Personne resource:

John Manconi, General Manager, Directeur général / Public Works / Travaux publics

(613) 580-2424 x 21110, john.manconi@ottawa.ca

Ward/Quartier - 12 - Rideau-Vanier

Ref N°: ACS2011-COS-PWS-0011

SUBJECT: DOWNTOWN RIDEAU LOCAL AREA PARKING STUDY

OBJET: ÉTUDE SUR LE STATIONNEMENT LOCAL DANS LE SECTEUR

CENTRE-VILLE RIDEAU

REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Transportation Committee recommend that Council:

1. Receive the Downtown Rideau Local Area Parking Study Summary Report (Document 1);

2. Direct staff to pursue opportunities to secure short term, publicly available off-street parking in the Rideau Street area, in the general vicinity of Cumberland Street and King Edward Avenue; and,

3. Direct staff to continue to work with stakeholders with respect to on-street parking on Rideau Street in the Business Improvement Area (BIA), during evenings and weekends.

RECOMMANDATIONS DU RAPPORT

Que le Comité des transports recommande au Conseil :

1. De prendre connaissance du rapport de l’étude sur le stationnement local dans le secteur Centre-ville Rideau (document 1);

2. De donner instruction au personnel de rechercher des possibilités de stationnement public hors rue de courte durée dans le secteur de la rue Rideau, plus précisément dans le voisinage de la rue Cumberland et de l’avenue King Edward; et,

3. De donner instruction au personnel de continuer à collaborer avec les parties prenantes relativement aux possibilités de stationnement sur la rue Rideau, dans le secteur de la ZAC, le soir et la fin de semaine.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Analysis

During consultation for the development of the Municipal Parking Management Strategy in April 2009, the need for additional parking facilities in the ByWard Market was raised by the general public and the business community. Due to the close proximity to the ByWard Market, the Downtown Rideau BIA expressed interest for a concurrent Local Area Parking Study (LAPS)

As a first step towards undertaking the Downtown Rideau LAPS, the City carried out an update of the Central Area Parking Study, which was last updated in 2005. In September 2009, parking supply and usage information was compiled east of the Rideau Canal for the ByWard Market and Downtown Rideau areas. The overall parking supply in the Central Area east of the Rideau Canal has remained consistent since 2005, at approximately 8,900 spaces.

The Downtown Rideau Local Area Parking Study focuses specifically on the Downtown Rideau BIA core and fringe areas, and includes details on: parking duration; occupancy by specific areas and streets; the relationship between land use and short-term parking; and identification of deficiencies and areas of concern.

There are approximately 4,550 parking spaces in the Downtown Rideau study area, which includes all on-street, public off-street, and private off-street spaces: 67% of parking spaces are publicly-available (7% on-street, 60% off-street); while 33% are private (18% residential, 15% commercial).

On-street parking in the area is well utilized and is over capacity at peak times and days, while off-street parking utilization was found to be moderate. Although on-street utilization is of concern, the overall short-term parking supply is sufficient to meet present overall levels of public parking demand. However, public parking deficiencies in certain sections of the BIA are noted.

As part of the consultation, stakeholders identified parking issues in the area, which were grouped into 12 topics, including: parking supply (opportunities to add parking, shared use parking); regulations and signage; specific days/times/blocks in detail; and parking garages (wayfinding). Each issue has been examined, including available data, a discussion on options and opportunities, a recommendation/conclusion, budget implications, and implementation timelines. Delegated Authority (for changes to the Traffic and Parking By-law) and the Municipal Parking Management Strategy (rate setting guidelines) provide the necessary tools to process changes to parking regulations.

Planned and potential developments were reviewed to determine impacts on public parking supply. In addition to reductions in the number of publicly-available off-street parking spaces in the area over the past few years due to development, planned and future developments could result in a potential loss of about 250 additional public off-street parking spaces. In order to ensure the ongoing supply of some public parking in support of local businesses, and in alignment with the Strategy Objectives, it is recommended that efforts be made to secure a supply of publicly-available off-street parking.

The detailed analysis of parking occupancies and durations revealed that on Sundays, on-street parking is highly used, with limited turnover or opportunities for customers to find convenient parking. Although on-street parking on Sundays and Holidays is technically “free”, convenient, short-term on-street parking for customers is difficult to find. Prime on-street parking in the area is 88% occupied by 10:30 a.m., and occupancy remains above 95% for the day. This high occupancy suggests that the option of paid Sunday and Holiday on-street parking should be examined. Focused consultation on the exact area covered, hours of paid parking and hourly rate for paid Sunday and Holiday on-street parking would need to be undertaken consistent with the Delegated Authority as per the Municipal Parking Management Strategy Rate Setting Guidelines. To date, the focus of the option for Sunday and Holiday paid parking has been on the core area of the ByWard Market. While similar conditions exist in the Rideau area, further consultation with the Downtown Rideau BIA and major stakeholders is required to determine the level of support for this option.

Legal/Risk Management Implications

There are no legal/risk management impediments to the implementation of this Report’s recommendations.

Technical Implications

There are no technical implications to the implementation of this Report’s recommendation.

Financial Implications

The 2011 Parking Operations, Maintenance and Development Branch Capital Budget includes $350,000 for the implementation of recommendations from Local Area Parking Studies. Potential revenues generated by Sunday and Holiday paid on-street parking in the area would need to be determined as part of the 2012 Parking Operations Budget.

Public Consultation

Primary consultation for the Local Area Parking Study was with the Downtown Rideau BIA (DRBIA). Regular meetings have been held to identify and discuss parking issues and examine options. Staff have been working with and through the BIA to communicate with the area merchants and businesses.

Ongoing consultation with local stakeholders will be carried out as per the requirements of Delegated Authority to implement changes to parking and traffic regulations as well as per the Municipal Parking Management Strategy Rate Setting Guidelines (as approved by Council in April 2009).

Councillor Fleury has been briefed on the findings of the parking study and the proposed actions, and is supportive of the findings.

The DRBIA has indicated that they cannot support this parking study as it stands. The basis of the objection is that the Parking Study does not thoroughly review and assess the DRBIA’s request to add on-street parking to Rideau Street evenings and weekends. It is the position of the DRBIA that this Parking Study needs to respond to this issue.

In response, Recommendation 3 directs staff to continue to work towards a resolution on this issue. Parking on Rideau Street in the evening and on weekends is a complex issue, as there are many competing priorities and needs for limited space in the right-of-way.

RÉSUMÉ

Analyse

Au cours des consultations tenues en avril 2009 dans le cadre de la Stratégie municipale de gestion du stationnement, le public et le milieu des affaires ont soulevé la nécessité d’aménager de nouveaux parcs de stationnement au marché By. Étant tout près du marché, la zone d'amélioration commerciale (ZAC) du centre‑ville Rideau a exprimé elle aussi son intérêt pour une étude parallèle sur le stationnement local de son secteur.

Comme première étape de l’étude sur le stationnement local du centre‑ville Rideau, la Ville a procédé à une mise à jour de l’étude sur le stationnement dans le secteur central, dont la dernière remonte à 2005. En septembre 2009, les données relatives à la disponibilité et à l’utilisation des stationnements ont été compilées à l’est du canal Rideau pour les secteurs du marché By et du centre‑ville Rideau. Le nombre de places de stationnement disponibles dans le secteur central à l’est du canal Rideau n’a pas varié depuis 2005, pour un total d’environ 8 900 places.

L’étude sur le stationnement local du centre‑ville Rideau porte expressément sur le secteur central et les quartiers périphériques de la ZAC du centre‑ville Rideau. Cette étude donne des précisions sur : la durée du stationnement, l’occupation par secteurs et rues particuliers, le lien entre l’utilisation des terrains et le stationnement de courte durée, la détermination des lacunes et des zones critiques.

Le secteur du centre‑ville Rideau qui a été étudié compte environ 4 550 places de stationnement, y compris toutes les places sur rue, les places hors rue publiques et hors rue privées : 67 p. cent des places de stationnement sont disponibles au public (7 p. cent sur rue, 60 p. cent hors rue), tandis que 33 p. cent sont privées (18 p. cent, stationnement résidentiel, 15 p. cent, stationnement commercial).

Dans ce secteur, le stationnement sur rue est bien utilisé et déborde aux périodes de pointe et au cours de la journée, tandis que l’utilisation des stationnements hors rue est modérée. Quoique l’utilisation sur rue soit problématique, la disponibilité globale du stationnement de courte durée répond à l’ensemble de la demande en matière de stationnement public. Toutefois, on a noté un manque de places de stationnement public dans certaines sections de la ZAC étudiée.

Dans le cadre des consultations, les intervenants ont mentionné des problèmes de stationnement dans le secteur. Ces problèmes ont été regroupés en 12 points, dont la disponibilité des places de stationnement (possibilité d’aménager de nouveaux parcs, stationnement à usage partagé); les règlements et l’affichage; précisions sur des journées, heures et pâtés de maisons particuliers; garages de stationnement (enseignes directionnelles). Pour chacun des problèmes, on a examiné les données disponibles, discuté des options possibles, présenté des recommandations ou une conclusion, tenu compte des considérations budgétaires et de la mise en œuvre de calendriers. Le pouvoir délégué (pour les modifications à apporter au Règlement sur la circulation et le stationnement) et la Stratégie municipale de gestion du stationnement (lignes directrices relativement aux tarifs des stationnements) procurent les outils nécessaires afin de procéder à des modifications aux règlements relatifs au stationnement.

La croissance prévue et potentielle a été examinée afin de déterminer les répercussions sur la disponibilité des places de stationnement public. En plus des réductions du nombre de places de stationnement hors rue disponibles au public dans le secteur au cours des dernières années en raison de la croissance, on prévoit d’autres mises en valeur qui pourraient entraîner une perte supplémentaire d’environ 250 espaces de stationnement public hors rue. Afin d’assurer la disponibilité permanente d’espaces de stationnement public pour les commerces locaux, et pour respecter les objectifs de la Stratégie, il est recommandé de veiller à assurer un nombre suffisant de places de stationnement public hors rue.

L’analyse détaillée de la durée de stationnement et du taux d’occupation a révélé que le stationnement sur rue était très utilisé le dimanche et que le roulement limité offrait peu de possibilités aux clients de trouver une bonne place de stationnement. Même si le stationnement sur rue est en principe « gratuit » les dimanches et les jours fériés, les clients ont de la difficulté à trouver une bonne place de stationnement pour une courte durée. Dans le secteur étudié, les meilleures places de stationnement sur rue sont occupées à 88 p. cent dès 10 h 30, et le taux d’occupation demeure au‑dessus de 95 p. cent durant toute la journée. Ce haut taux d’occupation semble indiquer que la possibilité de faire payer le stationnement sur rue les dimanches et les jours fériés devrait être examinée. Il faut entreprendre une consultation ciblée portant sur le secteur exact couvert par l’étude, les heures de stationnement payant et le taux horaire pour le stationnement sur rue les dimanches et les jours fériés, en accord avec le pouvoir délégué et conformément aux lignes directrices relativement aux tarifs des stationnements de la Stratégie municipale de gestion du stationnement. Jusqu’ici, l’option d’un stationnement payant les dimanches et les jours fériés n’était considérée que pour le secteur central du marché By. Bien que des conditions similaires existent dans le secteur Rideau, il faut poursuivre les consultations avec la ZAC du centre‑ville Rideau et les principaux intervenants afin de déterminer à quel point ils sont favorables à cette option.

Incidences juridiques et en matière de gestion du risque

Il n’existe aucune entrave d’ordre juridique ou en matière de gestion du risque à la mise en œuvre des recommandations du présent rapport.

Incidences techniques

La mise en œuvre des recommandations de ce rapport n’entraîne aucune incidence technique.

Incidences financières

Le budget des immobilisations 2011 de la Direction de l’exploitation et de l’entretien des stationnements consacre 350 000 $ à la mise en œuvre des recommandations des études sur le stationnement local. Les revenus potentiels produits par le stationnement sur rue payant les dimanches et les jours fériés n’ont pas encore été déterminés dans le cadre du budget d’exploitation des stationnements de 2012.

Consultations publiques

La principale consultation portant sur l’étude sur le stationnement local a eu lieu avec la zone d’amélioration commerciale du centre‑Rideau. Des réunions régulières ont été tenues dans le but de déterminer les problèmes relatifs au stationnement, d’en discuter et d’examiner les différentes options. Le personnel a collaboré avec la ZAC pour rejoindre les marchands et les entreprises de ce secteur.

Une consultation permanente sera mise sur pied avec les intervenants locaux au sujet des exigences du pouvoir délégué relativement à l’application des modifications au règlement sur la circulation et le stationnement et selon les lignes directrices sur les tarifs des stationnements de la Stratégie municipale de gestion des stationnements (tels qu’approuvés par le Conseil municipal en avril 2009).

Le conseiller Fleury appuie les conclusions de l’étude sur le stationnement et les mesures proposées.

La ZAC du centre‑ville Rideau a fait savoir qu’elle ne peut pas appuyer l’étude sur le stationnement dans son état actuel. L’objection repose sur le fait que l’étude n’a pas examiné ni évalué à fond la demande de la ZAC du centre‑ville Rideau, à savoir l’ajout d’un stationnement sur la rue Rideau les soirs et les fins de semaine. La ZAC du centre‑ville Rideau soutient que l’étude sur le stationnement devrait tenir compte de leur demande.

Par conséquent, la troisième recommandation demande au personnel de poursuivre son travail vers une résolution de cette question. Le stationnement sur la rue Rideau en soirée et en fin de semaine est une question complexe en raison de ses nombreuses priorités concurrentes et ses besoins en matière d’espace limité dans l’emprise routière.

BACKGROUND

On April 22, 2009, City Council approved the Municipal Parking Management Strategy, which sets out clear principles and objectives for the City’s Parking Program. One of the key components of the Strategy, to help guide policy decisions, is the Local Area Parking Study (LAPS). Such studies are to be conducted for specific geographical areas in order to determine the need for, nature of and extent of municipal involvement in the provision of public parking services.

During consultation for the development of the Municipal Parking Management Strategy, the need for additional parking facilities in the ByWard Market was raised by the general public and the business community. As a result, the ByWard Market was identified as a priority area in which to undertake the first Local Area Parking Study. In addition, because of the close proximity to the ByWard Market, the Downtown Rideau BIA expressed its interest for a concurrent study.

As a first step towards undertaking the ByWard Market and Downtown Rideau LAPS, the City carried out an update of the Central Area Parking Study (CAPS), which was last updated in 2005. This is a recurring technical study (since 1985) that is undertaken every four to six years to monitor general trends in parking demand and supply in the Core area. The completion of the CAPS (East) report was a critical step, and formed the basis for the detailed, focused analysis of parking in the two areas. The detailed report includes extensive parking supply, occupancy and duration data and analysis for all surveyed streets and blocks. Copies of the CAPS are available from the Department. Similarly, the LAPS were undertaken concurrently with an update of the Rideau Area Transportation Network Study (RATNS-II), as the study boundaries of these projects and the subject matter are interrelated.

Interim reports for both the Local Area Parking Studies (ByWard Market and Downtown Rideau) and the RATNS-II were presented to the Transportation Committee on June 2, 2010. The final RATNS-II report is scheduled to be presented to the Transportation Committee later in the year.

ANALYSIS

In September 2009, parking supply and usage information was compiled east of the Rideau Canal for the ByWard Market and Downtown Rideau areas. The parking supply (short-term and long-term) includes:

§ On-street parking (meters/pay and display; parking compounds; angle parking; loading zones; no parking/no stopping zones and other curb-side uses);

§ Off-street municipal parking (ByWard Market Garage, Clarence-Murray Garage); and,

§ Off-street private parking (publicly-accessible parking lots; private parking lots; residential parking; and shared parking).

The overall parking supply in the Central Area east of the Rideau Canal has remained consistent since 2005, at approximately 8,900 spaces.

The Downtown Rideau Local Area Parking Study Technical Report expands upon the CAPS (East) report, and focuses specifically on the Downtown Rideau core and fringe areas. It also focuses on public parking supply. Residential parking and private parking have been documented but not examined in detail as this parking is generally not available in support of local businesses. The technical report includes details regarding parking duration; occupancy by specific areas and streets; the relationship between land use and short-term parking; and, identification of deficiencies and areas of concern.

Business and Consumer Surveys were carried out within the study areas in October and November of 2009. The Business Survey focused on the type of business, hours of operation, perceived parking problems, and opinions on parking needs and parking enforcement. The Consumer Survey focused on mode of travel, purpose of trip, origin of trip, length of stay, where they parked, and opinions on parking supply and enforcement. The questions included in this survey were based on past Central Area Parking Studies (to allow for comparison) and also included several new questions. The nature of these surveys was discussed extensively with the BIAs.

Parking Occupancy, Duration and Turnover

Parking data collected for the Downtown Rideau area has been analyzed based on three factors: parking occupancy; parking duration; and turnover.

Parking Occupancy is the ratio of the number of vehicles parked divided by the number of spaces provided. The chance that a customer to the area will be able to find convenient, available parking on a particular street or parking lot is a function of occupancy. An occupancy rate of between 75% and 85% is considered to be an industry best practice, representing the level at which there is a reasonable opportunity for a customer to find parking. Above this rate, additional traffic can be generated as drivers search for available parking, customers would need to park at less convenient locations, or potentially shop elsewhere. Thus, an occupancy rate of 85% is considered to be the “practical capacity” of a facility. This is a key point from the Municipal Parking Management Strategy – studies should be undertaken wherever paid occupancy rates are less than 75% or greater than 85%

Duration refers to the average length of time that a vehicle remains parked on a street or in a parking lot. The observed duration should be similar to the posted or intended time period (e.g.: one hour on-street parking). The intent of setting parking limits in commercial areas is to provide turnover of prime parking spaces and to optimize the number of customers of a business area who can make use of a particular prime parking space.

Turnover is directly related to Duration, and represents the number of unique vehicles that make use of a parking space over a study period. It represents the number of potential customers served by the space. For example, over an eight-hour period, four customers could make use of one space in a “two hour limit” zone, whereas if that same space were designated as a “one hour limit”, up to eight customers could be served in the same time period. 

Analysis and Findings

A brief summary of the parking inventory, on-street and off-street occupancy rates, and the proportion of public parking under City jurisdiction in the BIA and fringe areas is as follows:

Parking Inventory:

§ There are 4,547 parking spaces in the study area, which includes all on-street, public off-street, and private off-street;

• 67% of parking spaces are public (7% on-street, 60% off-street) while 33% are private (18% residential, 15% commercial);

§ 53% of public parking is short-term while 47% is long-term; and,

§ 10% of the total public parking supply is under City jurisdiction (all on-street; no municipally-controlled off-street spaces).

On-Street Occupancy Rate Summary:

§ Peak occupancy rates exceed total capacity during all days; and,

§ Average occupancy rates are below practical capacity (less than 85% of the on-street parking spaces were occupied) on Thursdays, above practical capacity (more than 85% of the on-street parking spaces were occupied) on Saturdays, and exceed total capacity on Friday evenings and Sundays.

Public Off-Street Occupancy Rate Summary:

§ Peak occupancy rates are below practical capacity (less than 85% of parking spaces were occupied) during all days, but approach practical capacity on Thursdays; and,

§ Average occupancy rates are below or significantly below practical capacity on all days.

In summary, the above data indicates that on-street parking in the area is well utilized and is over capacity at peak times and days. However, off-street parking utilization was found to be moderate. This indicates that although on-street utilization is of concern, the overall short-term parking supply is sufficient to meet present levels of public parking demand, and that opportunities exist to direct users to the off-street parking facilities during the periods studied.

Bicycle Parking

In June 2010, a one-day count of bicycle parking was conducted in sections of the Downtown Rideau area. All bicycle racks in the area were identified, and all parked bicycles were counted, including bicycles parked along railings, trees, parking meters, and road signs. A total of 239 spaces (including all designated racks and all “ring and post” units) were noted. Staff observed 111 bicycles in the area studied.

Parking Issues – Approach

As part of the initial steps of the study, the BIA and major stakeholders were asked about parking issues in the area. The issues were grouped into 12 topics, some of which address specific locations: parking supply (opportunities to add parking, shared use parking); regulations and signage; specific days/times/blocks in detail; special parking (bicycles, motorcycles); and parking garages (wayfinding).

Each issue has been examined, including available data, a discussion on options and opportunities, a recommendation/conclusion, budget implications, and implementation timelines. In some cases, more complex options have been identified, while other options involve the need for further study/consultation, such as parking changes that may affect tour bus parking and taxi zones. The initiatives and actions are summarized in Table 1.

Delegated Authority (for changes to the Traffic and Parking By-law) and the Municipal Parking Management Strategy (rate setting guidelines) provide the necessary tools to process changes to parking regulations, subject to concurrence with stakeholders, including the Ward Councillor, BIAs, Community Associations, Places of Worship, and other Stakeholders.

Table 1 DOWNTOWN RIDEAU PARKING ISSUES
Subject		ACTION
1.	Examine opportunities to permit additional on-street parking during off-peak traffic/transit hours/days	Identified an additional 3 on-street off-peak spaces; potential conversion of loading bays on Rideau St. to shared loading/off peak parking
2.	Examine opportunities to provide additional on-street parking	Identified an additional 3 on-street spaces; implementation TBD
3.	Review existing Parking Regulations on several streets.	Various regulations identified; due to complexity (such that each requires multiple other changes to rectify), ongoing discussion with stakeholders required.
4.	Identify opportunities for convertible or shared use parking spaces/curb use (for example, tour bus parking daytime, taxi zone at night).	Consider the conversion of loading bays on Rideau St. to shared loading/off peak parking; implementation TBD.
5.	Identify opportunities to provide for bicycle and motorcycle/scooter parking, as well as for other alternative modes of transportation	Recommend ongoing study and potential new ring and post installations.
6.	Review existing Loading Zones (requirement, relocation options, additional loading zones).	Recommend relocating loading zone near Rideau Centre Parking Garage; recommend adding an off-peak loading zone on Besserer near Nicholas.
7.	Review existing Tour Bus Parking locations.	Recommend converting 1 bus space to regular parking; other tour bus relocation subject to consultation with stakeholders.
8.	Review Taxi Zones.	Reviewed; linked to tour bus parking locations, changes require consultation with stakeholders.
9	Examine wayfinding and directional signage to/from Municipal Parking Lots.	Recommend wayfinding to/from Rideau Centre Parking Garages.
10.	Identify and examine barriers between parking facilities and destinations.	The study area was divided into 3 sub-sections (E/W of Waller St and N/S of Rideau St) and parking supply and demand was reviewed in detail.
11.	Study specific time periods of high parking utilization/low turnover.	Friday evenings/Sundays reviewed; option of Sunday paid parking. Future review of evening parking.
12.	Identify opportunities for additional off-peak public use of private parking lots.	University of Ottawa offers off-peak public use of their lots; recommend ongoing discussion.

It is recognized that the list above represents a current inventory of the parking-related issues in the area. As this is a very dynamic and active area, issues related to parking will need to be monitored on a continuous basis and addressed as possible. Staff suggest that quarterly meetings with the BIA and other stakeholders continue in an ongoing basis to address parking concerns. In addition, the implementation of Pay and Display machines has provided a new opportunity to closely monitor paid parking activity by area, which was not easily available before. This will allow for the continued monitoring of areas of concern in order to study/consider ongoing minor adjustments to paid parking locations and effective times/days.

Major Parking Issues

Development Issues and Potential Loss of Public Parking (Recommendation 2)

One of the objectives of the Municipal Parking Management Strategy is to “provide and promote affordable short-term parking services as well as fair and consistent enforcement services that support local businesses, institutions, and tourism.” Thus, the focus of the detailed analysis has been on publicly available parking; particularly on shorter-term publicly available parking (both privately owned and Municipally-owned).

When new development occurs in the Central Area, the parking requirements are typically less than what has historically been provided. It is anticipated that the relative supply of dedicated parking for new developments will decrease over time, and as a result, demand for general public parking will potentially increase. In addition, new developments often take the place of existing surface parking lots.

Comparisons of land use for critical blocks have been made by documenting land use data and air photo information from 1999, 2005 and 2009. The most significant change identified in this review has been the development of several major condominiums in the area, which, in several cases, has resulted in the loss of publicly available off-street surface parking. Planned and potential developments are being reviewed for possible impact on the parking supply. Each block was examined to determine the potential loss of public parking supply.

In the Downtown Rideau area, following discussions with stakeholders, it was noted that major roads within the study area such as Waller Street and Rideau Street may form barriers, which may make parking in certain areas less attractive to customers. For example, parking east of Waller Street to shop west of Waller Street may be affected by heavy traffic flows. To review this possibility, the parking data for the Downtown Rideau study area was divided into three sub-sections: west of Waller Street/Dalhousie Street (Rideau West); east of Waller Street/Dalhousie Street and north of Besserer Street (Rideau East); and the area east of Waller Street and south of Besserer Street (Rideau Fringe).

The west part of the Downtown Rideau area is dominated by the Rideau Centre. The vast majority of publicly-available parking is within their three parking facilities. The current capacity is approximately 1,440 spaces and plans to add levels to one of their facilities, and redevelopment of the existing surface lot site, could add an additional 800 spaces. This area will need to be actively monitored with the recent opening of the new Ottawa Convention Centre.

To the east, the analysis indicates that future developments could result in a potential loss of approximately 250 public off-street parking spaces. There is currently no Municipal off-street parking and, in order to ensure the ongoing supply of public parking in support of local businesses and in alignment with the objectives of the Municipal Parking Management Strategy, efforts are needed to secure a supply of publicly-available off-street parking by:

• Exploring opportunities for a municipal parking facility;
• Partnering with a private sector development to include municipally-controlled public parking; and/or,
• Ensuring the provision of publicly-available (but privately owned) short term parking as part of development approvals.

Wayfinding

A key finding of the LAPS is the need for improvements to wayfinding to and from parking facilities. Off-street parking occupancy is moderate to low at times, and part of this may be a need to improve the awareness of available off-street public parking facilities. Currently, there are no municipally-controlled off-street public parking facilities in the Downtown Rideau BIA. All public off-street parking is provided in privately-owned facilities such as the Rideau Centre. Recognizing the importance of such facilities in providing public parking supply to the area, there is a need to work towards initiatives such as common wayfinding, both to the parking facilities and upon exit, to major destinations such as Highway 417.

Another key initiative is partnering or finding opportunities where existing parking facilities can help address parking shortages. A positive example of this type of cooperation is seen in that the Rideau Centre now offers a maximum evening rate of $5 (after 6:00 pm), which is actively promoted by the BIA and certain member businesses.

Paid Parking on Sundays and Statutory Holidays

The detailed analysis of parking occupancies and durations in the Local Area Parking Study Technical Report reveals that on Sundays, on-street parking is highly used, with limited turnover or opportunities for customers to find convenient parking. This high occupancy and low turnover suggests that paid parking should be examined.

Prime on-street parking in the Downtown Rideau area is 88% occupied by 10:30 am, and occupancy remains above 95% for the day. This is due to the fact that there is no charge for on-street parking and spaces are filled early and for the entire day. Although on-street parking on Sundays is technically “free”, convenient, short-term on-street parking for customers of the area is difficult to find. This means that short-term customers are unable to find convenient parking, and need to park at less convenient off-street paid parking facilities.

Free parking on Sundays encourages drivers to spend time searching for a space on-street even if it is not readily available. Paid parking would help to redistribute parking demand and discourage long-term on-street occupancy, directing it to off-street parking facilities. Reducing the demand for on-street parking will encourage a higher turnover of prime on-street spaces and will help to mitigate traffic issues associated with searching for free parking spaces.

Focused consultation on the exact area covered, hours of paid parking and the appropriate hourly rate for paid Sunday on-street parking would need to be undertaken consistent with the Delegated Authority as per the Municipal Parking Management Strategy Rate Setting Guidelines.

Rideau Street Parking (Recommendation 3)

There are several ongoing planning and transportation-related studies in the Downtown Rideau areas. In some cases, the guiding principles of the other studies need to be taken into account during the evaluation of any options. For example, any changes on Rideau Street need to be made with consideration to the Rideau Street Urban Design Study and Rideau Renewal initiatives, as well as the Downtown Ottawa Urban Design Strategy (2004). Staff will continue to participate in these studies to identify future opportunities to address parking issues within Downtown Rideau, and specifically the Downtown Rideau BIA request to consider on-street parking on Rideau Street during evening and weekend hours.

The Parking Report has confirmed that there are few opportunities to park on-street in the vicinity of Rideau Street, as parking is currently prohibited at all times on Rideau Street west of Cumberland Street. This is a result of the multiple demands on the available road space, particularly transit (both OC Transpo and STO). In 2007-2008, this issue was briefly examined and it was found that while there may be some locations where parking may be physically possible, the challenge is to identify the periods of time during which on-street parking would not result in unacceptable impacts on transit operations and other traffic. The request for on-street parking in the evenings and on weekends is appropriately examined as part of a broader review within the Rideau Area Transportation Network Study Update.

Future Opportunities

In addition to the measures above, there are other opportunities that may be considered for future review and action, as summarized below:

§ Extended Paid Parking Hours: Based on occupancy rates observed and duration, the data for on-street parking on Friday evenings also suggests that paid parking might be considered. However, the typical customer in the evening is visiting restaurants, etc., and the need to encourage turnover is not the same as during the day. Future monitoring will be undertaken to further examine the evening hours. One possible option that may be considered to help ensure the maximum supply of on-street parking for customers (as opposed to employees) would be to extend the paid parking period until 7:00 pm (currently 5:30 pm).

§ Expanded Paid Parking Areas: The parking study data reviewed occupancy rates on all blocks in the area – both paid and unpaid. In some cases, it was noted that paid parking may help to encourage additional turnover on certain streets. This would require focused consultation with adjacent businesses and residents prior to implementation.

§ Parking Rates By Zone: The current industry best practice is that peak occupancy should be in the range of 85%. In some municipalities, parking rates can be set based on the actual occupancy rates recorded – basing price on actual demand. Such an approach is in effect in Vancouver. The approved Municipal Parking Management Strategy includes Rate Setting Guidelines, which state that public parking rates, hours and locations are to be set based on Local Area Parking Studies (LAPS). One of the principle criteria to determine the priority for undertaking LAPS is peak parking occupancy rates of below 75% or above 85%.

§ Progressive Pricing: Calgary has a system of progressive pricing for on-street parking in some areas, where the first hour will be set at one price and the second hour at a higher price to encourage shorter stays, thus making the parking spaces available to more customers.

§ Paid Loading Zones: Similar to Tour Bus spaces, loading zones could be converted to “paid” loading zones. This would serve to discourage the current practice of some motorists taking advantage of the current no cost loading zones for very short term parking. Pricing the loading zones would help to ensure that they are available to those who need a temporary location to load or unload merchandise in close proximity to their destination. The Downtown Rideau BIA is interested in a pilot project of Paid Loading Zones on Rideau Street.

§ Accessible Parking: While this study has focused on the overall parking supply and demand, it is recognized that as part of a detailed implementation and examination of municipal parking facilities, planning for accessible parking supply and demand must be included.

The Downtown Rideau area and the ByWard Market are the most active areas of the City, with on-street parking pressures on all days and times. This has led to some unique challenges and opportunities. During the day, the characteristics are typical of a main street commercial area. However, during the evening, weekends and overnight, there continues to be demand for parking due to the nature of this retail, arts and theatre district. As this is a very dynamic and active area, issues related to parking will need to be monitored on a continuous basis and addressed as possible. Staff have suggested that quarterly meetings with the BIAs and other stakeholders continue in an ongoing basis to address parking concerns.

RURAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no rural implications associated with this report.

CONSULTATION

Primary consultation for the Local Area Parking Study was with the Downtown Rideau BIA. Regular meetings have been held to identify and discuss parking issues and examine options. Staff have been working with and through the BIA to communicate with the area merchants and businesses. During the initial stages of the study, notices were sent to all area businesses and merchants (via the BIA) and information on the Parking Studies was posted on the City’s website.

Upon completion of the parking surveys and compilation of overall parking supply and demand data, briefings were provided to the Downtown Rideau “Project Team” (BIA, Major Merchants, Arts Court, etc.) A briefing/consultation was provided in April 2011 to present the findings and recommendations to several representatives of the Downtown Rideau “Project Team” (BIA, Major Merchants, Arts Court, etc.). Briefings on the project findings and direction were provided to Action Sandy Hill and the University of Ottawa.

On many items, continued consultation is required to ensure local stakeholder agreement (between the BIA, Places of Worship, Community Associations, and Ward Councillor) to implement changes to parking policy. This ongoing consultation with local stakeholders will be carried out as per the requirements of Delegated Authority to implement changes to parking and traffic regulations as well as per the Municipal Parking Management Strategy Rate Setting Guidelines (as approved by Council in April 2009).

Regular updates were provided to the Parking Stakeholder Consultation Group (PSCG) on the status of the local area parking studies. The findings were presented to PSCG on April 20, 2011, and their comments and suggestions have been incorporated in this report.

The DRBIA has indicated that they cannot support this parking study as it stands. The basis of the objection is that the Parking Study does not thoroughly review and assess the DRBIA’s request to add on-street parking to Rideau Street evenings and weekends. The DRBIA refer to the existing parking on Rideau Street, between Cumberland Street and King Edward Avenue. It is the position of the DRBIA that this Parking Study needs to respond to the request to add on-street parking to Rideau Street.  They refer to the Parking Study’s technical data confirming a significant loss of parking in this section of Rideau in recent years, and the several hundred more parking spaces the study projects to be lost additionally in the next couple of years, as evidence supporting the request to add parking to our district, including short-term convenient parking on Rideau Street. 

In response, the Staff Report does address the issue of on-street parking on Rideau Street. Recommendation 3 directs staff to continue to work towards a resolution on this issue. Parking on Rideau Street in the evening and on weekends is a complex issue, as there are many competing priorities and needs for limited space in the right-of-way, and the potential impacts of on-street parking are of concern to Transit Services, in terms of their ability to provide reliable transit service. On-street parking opportunities on Rideau Street, between Sussex Drive and King Edward Avenue can be specifically included as an additional item to the work currently being done for the Rideau Renewal Project.

COMMENTS FROM THE WARD COUNCILLOR

Councillor Fleury has been briefed on the findings of the parking study and the proposed actions, and is supportive of the findings.

LEGAL/RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS

There are no legal/risk management impediments to the implementation of this Report’s recommendations.

CITY STRATEGIC PLAN

The requirement for Local Area Parking Studies is identified in the Municipal Parking Management Strategy, which in turn is in alignment with the Transportation Priority of the City’s Strategic Plan. This approach to parking management supports the City’s existing transportation network and ultimately helps to allow for more efficient movement of people and goods and encourages economic growth. The Municipal Parking Management Strategy also reflects the principles of the Transportation Master Plan.

TECHNICAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no technical implications to the implementation of this Report’s recommendations.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The 2011 Parking Operations, Maintenance and Development Branch Capital Budget includes $350,000 for the implementation of recommendations of measures from ByWard Market and Downtown Rideau Local Area Parking Studies. A number of recommended measures include the addition of on-street paid parking spaces (generally in existing paid parking areas). As such, it is expected that the costs of implementation of these measures will have a relatively low cost and short payback period as a result of increased parking revenues.

Potential revenues generated by Sunday and Holiday paid on-street parking in the Downtown Rideau area would need to be determined as part of the 2012 Parking Operations Budget.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

Document 1 – Downtown Rideau Local Area Parking Study – Summary Report (Previously distributed and held on file)

DISPOSITION

Parking Operations, Maintenance and Development Branch staff will continue with focused consultation with stakeholders, and implement measures identified in the Local Area Parking Study for the Downtown Rideau area under Delegated Authority as per the Municipal Parking Management Strategy.

DOWNTOWN RIDEAU LOCAL AREA PARKING STUDY

ÉTUDE SUR LE STATIONNEMENT LOCAL DANS LE SECTEUR CENTRE-VILLE RIDEAU

ACS2011-COS-PWS-0011 RIDEAU-VANIER (12)

REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Transportation Committee recommend that Council:

1. Receive the Downtown Rideau Local Area Parking Study Summary Report (Document 1);

2. Direct staff to pursue opportunities to secure short term, publicly available off-street parking in the Rideau Street area, in the general vicinity of Cumberland Street and King Edward Avenue; and,

3. Direct staff to continue to work with stakeholders with respect to on-street parking on Rideau Street in the Business Improvement Area (BIA), during evenings and weekends.

Peggy DuCharme, Executive Director, Downtown Rideau BIA, expressed concern that the study failed to recommend immediate implementation of additional on-street parking for Rideau Street. A copy of her letter dated 27 June 2011, including supporting e-mails from The Second Cup; the Ottawa Convention Centre; Jubilee Jewellers; Top of the World; Sante Restaurant and Holtz Spa; Giant Tiger; and, Don Cherry’s, is held on file with the City Clerk.

John Muggleton, Ottawa Little Theatre, expressed concern about the lack of parking for theatre patrons in the area. A copy of the OLT letter dated 13 May 2011 to the Downtown Rideau BIA was circulated with the above submission and a copy is held on file.

MOTION TRC 9/3

Moved by Councillor D. Deans

That no change be made to current parking conditions on Rideau Street, but that future opportunities be explored in conjunction with the Rideau Street reconstruction.

CARRIED

The report recommendations, as amended by Motion TRC 9/3 were then put to Committee and CARRIED, with the following direction to staff:

DIRECTION TO STAFF

While working with stakeholders, that staff explore short- and longer term alternatives to bringing people to this area, including looking at accessibility to the existing parking spaces.