4.            OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING - 100 CHAMPAGNE AVENUE SOUTH

 

                  MODIFICATION DU PLAN OFFICIEL ET ZONAGE - 100, AVENUE CHAMPAGNE SUD

 

 

Committee recommendationS

 

(This matter is Subject to Bill 51)

 

That Council:

 

1.                  Approve and adopt an amendment to the Official Plan Volume 2A: Secondary Plans for the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan to re-designate 100 Champagne Avenue South from “Residential Low Profile” to “Residential High Profile”, as detailed in Document 2; and

 

2.                  Approve an amendment to Zoning By-law 2008-250 to change the zoning of 100 Champagne Avenue South from R4M (Residential Fourth Density Subzone M) to R5P Sxxx (Residential Fifth Density Subzone P, Schedule xxx) zone as detailed in Document 3, and shown in Document 4.

 

 

RECOMMANDATIONS DU COMITÉ

 

(Cette question est assujettie au Règlement 51)

 

Que Conseil :

 

1.                  approuve et adopte une modification au volume 2A du Plan officiel : plans secondaires du Plan secondaire Preston-Champagne, afin de faire passer la désignation du 100, avenue Champagne Sud d’utilisation « résidentielle à profil bas » à utilisation « résidentielle à profil élevé », tel qu’exposé en détail dans le document 2;

 

2.                  approuver une modification au Règlement de zonage no 2008-250 afin de faire passer le zonage du 100, avenue Champagne Sud de R4M (zone résidentielle de densité 4, sous-zone M) à R5P Sxxx (zone résidentielle de densité 5, sous-zone P, annexe xxx), tel qu’exposé en détail dans le document 3 et illustré dans le document 4;

 

 

 

Documentation

 

1.       Deputy City Manager's report Infrastructure Services and Community Sustainability dated 1 September 2010 (ACS2010-ICS-PGM-0162).

 

2.       Extract of Draft Minutes of 14 September 2010.

 


Report to/Rapport au :

 

Planning and Environment Committee

Comité de l'urbanisme et de l'environnement

 

01 September 2010 / le 01 septembre 2010

 

Submitted by/Soumis par : Nancy Schepers, Deputy City Manager/Directrice municipale adjointe, Infrastructure Services and Community Sustainability, Services d'infrastructure et Viabilité des collectivités

 

Contact Person/Personne-ressource : Richard Kilstrom, Acting Manager/Gestionnaire intérimaire, Development Review-Urban Services, Inner Core/Examen des projets d'aménagement-Services urbains, Unité du Centre intérieur, Planning and Growth Management/Urbanisme et Gestion de la croissance

(613) 580-2424, 22379 Richard.Kilstrom@ottawa.ca

 

Kitchissippi (15)

Ref N°: ACS2010-ICS-PGM-0162

 

 

SUBJECT:

OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING - 100 CHAMPAGNE AVENUE SOUTH (FILE NO. D01-01-10-0008; D02-02-10-0025)

 

 

OBJET :

MODIFICATION DU PLAN OFFICIEL ET ZONAGE - 100, AVENUE CHAMPAGNE SUD

 

 

REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS

 

That the Planning and Environment Committee recommend that Council:

 

3.                  Approve and adopt an amendment to the Official Plan Volume 2A: Secondary Plans for the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan to re-designate 100 Champagne Avenue South from “Residential Low Profile” to “Residential High Profile”, as detailed in Document 2; and

 

4.                  Approve an amendment to Zoning By-law 2008-250 to change the zoning of 100 Champagne Avenue South from R4M (Residential Fourth Density Subzone M) to R5P Sxxx (Residential Fifth Density Subzone P, Schedule xxx) zone as detailed in Document 3, and shown in Document 4.

 

RECOMMANDATIONS DU RAPPORT

 

Que le Comité de l’urbanisme et de l’environnement recommande ce qui suit au Conseil :

 

3.                  Approuver et adopter une modification au volume 2A du Plan officiel : plans secondaires du Plan secondaire Preston-Champagne, afin de faire passer la désignation du 100, avenue Champagne Sud d’utilisation « résidentielle à profil bas » à utilisation « résidentielle à profil élevé », tel qu’exposé en détail dans le document 2;

 

4.                  Approuver une modification au Règlement de zonage no 2008-250 afin de faire passer le zonage du 100, avenue Champagne Sud de R4M (zone résidentielle de densité 4, sous-zone M) à R5P Sxxx (zone résidentielle de densité 5, sous-zone P, annexe xxx), tel qu’exposé en détail dans le document 3 et illustré dans le document 4;

 

 

BACKGROUND

 

Site Description

 

The subject site, 100 Champagne Avenue South, is located on the northwest corner of Hickory Street and Champagne Avenue South.  The 0.25-hectare site currently contains a one-storey building.  The site is surrounded by a 14-storey residential apartment with surface parking to the north, low-rise residential to the west, medium-rise office to the south, and undeveloped lands intended for high-rise mixed use development to the east.

 

The site is currently designated as Mixed Use Centre on Schedule B of the Official Plan, and as Residential Low Profile on Schedule L of the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan.  The site is zoned as R4M (Residential Fourth Density Subzone M) in Zoning By-law 2008-250.

 

Proposal

 

The proposed development consists of a 12-storey high-rise apartment dwelling with 94 units fronting onto Champagne Avenue South, and a three-storey multiple attached (townhouse) dwelling with six units fronting directly onto Hickory Street.  The townhouse and high-rise apartment dwellings are linked by a common parking garage with a total of 109 spaces, including two car-sharing spaces (i.e. Vrtucar) and six visitor spaces.  Access to the parking is proposed to be via Champagne Avenue South.  Amenity space will be provided above the podium between the townhouses and the high-rise apartment, as well as on individual balconies.  The 12-storey building will be set back an additional two metres above the third storey.  The proposed site plan, submitted with the concurrent Site Plan application, is shown in Document 5.

 

Purpose of Applications

 

As the proposal does not conform to the existing Secondary Plan designation or the existing zoning, an Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment are required.  The purpose of the Official Plan Amendment is to amend the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan from Residential Low Profile to Residential High Profile.  The purpose of the Zoning By-law Amendment is to amend the zoning of the site from R4M (Residential Fourth Density Subzone M) to R5P Sxxx (Residential Fifth Density Subzone P, Schedule xxx) with a maximum height of 42 metres.  In addition, the proposed Zoning By-law amendment includes the following reductions:

 

 

DISCUSSION

 

Planning Act and Provincial Policy Statement

 

Section 2 of the Planning Act outlines those land use matters that are of provincial interest, to which all City planning decisions shall have regard.  The provincial interests that apply to this site include the appropriate location of growth and development and the promotion of development that is designed to be sustainable to support public transit and to be oriented to pedestrians.  In addition, the Planning Act requires that all City planning decisions be consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS), a document that provides further policies on matters of provincial interest related to land use development. PPS policies indicate that there should be an appropriate mix of uses to support strong, liveable, and healthy communities.

 

The proposal allows for development of a density that will efficiently use land and contribute to a balanced community. The site is conveniently located near transit (Carling O-train station), and nearby residential and commercial areas to allow for access by pedestrians and transit.  The site is located within one block of an arterial road (Carling Avenue), which provides good access to the site and is a focus for existing and future mixed-use development.  Staff conclude that the proposal is consistent with the matters of provincial interest as outlined in the Planning Act and PPS.

 

Official Plan

 

Strategic Directions

 

Section 2.3.1 of the Official Plan sets broad strategic directions to meet the challenge of managing growth, providing infrastructure, maintaining environmental integrity and creating livable communities within Ottawa. To meet these challenges, polices are set out to pursue a mix of land uses and compact forms of development which in turn will enable the City to support a high-quality transit system and make better use of existing infrastructure and roads.  The proposed development will support this overall goal.

 

Land Use Designations

 

The site is designated as “Mixed Use Centre” on Schedule B of the Official Plan.  The Mixed-Use Centre designation permits a broad variety of uses and encourages transit-supportive land uses with the goal of creating complete neighbourhoods.  These areas are intended to include a broad range of land uses, such as offices, retail, schools, hotels, hospitals, large institutional buildings, recreation and entertainment facilities, entertainment uses, services, high and medium-density residential uses, and mixed-use development.  The Mixed-Use Centre designation identifies areas that are strategically located with respect to the transportation system and are accessible by transit, walking, cycling and automobile.  They are centered on rapid transit stations and contain one or more arterial roads with all-day frequent transit service.  Mixed-use centres are one of the target areas identified for intensification.  The Bayview-Preston Mixed Use Centre has a minimum target density at 2031 of 285 people and jobs per net hectare. 

 

The proposed development has a density of 669 people and jobs per net hectare, and thus meets the minimum target density.  It is located within 600 metres of the Carling O-train station, near arterial roads, and multi-use pathways, which facilitate travel by all modes and encourages transit use.  The proposal redevelops an underutilized site in an area that is characterized by several properties in transition from industrial uses to more intense development.  The proposed high-density residential use is specifically permitted in the Mixed Use Centre designation, and fulfils the housing objectives through the inclusion of multiple types of housing.  In light of the above, the proposed development is consistent with the direction of this land use designation.  

 

Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan

 

The Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan in Volume 2 of the Official Plan seeks to reinforce the area as a diverse inner city neighbourhood with a broad mix of uses.  It will allow major redevelopment that transitions to existing lower profile residential areas.  The southwest quadrant, where the subject site is located, will incorporate new office and residential development, which will transition down in height when moving away from Carling Avenue.  The plan also seeks to enhance Preston Street as the main pedestrian-oriented shopping area and community focus.  The “Residential Low Profile” designation, which applies to the subject site permits predominately residential low profile uses to preserve its residential character. 

 

At the time the Secondary Plan was developed in the early 1990s, the use of the rail corridor for light rail had not yet been contemplated, and thus proximity to rapid transit was not considered as a factor in determining the land use designations in the plan.  The O-train station being less than 600 metres from the site provides rationale for reconsidering the low-profile residential designation in favour of a more intense form of development that takes advantage of the proximity of rapid transit.

 

The site is flanked by an existing 14-storey residential building to the north, existing mid-rise office buildings to the south, and lands approved for high-rise mixed-used development to the east and southeast.  Council approved an Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law amendment on the site directly to the east for an 11-storey residential building in 2002, which contributes to this evolving environment.  The proposed building height of 42 metres is in keeping with the established and unbuilt context in the surrounding area.  The site represents the edge between an existing low-profile neighbourhood (heights ranging from 11 metres to 18 metres) and an emerging high-profile neighbourhood.  Additionally, the grade change from west to east is approximately one storey, which contributes to reducing the impact of height as perceived from the west.

 

The proposed amendment to “Residential High Profile” will allow redevelopment in accordance with the vision set forth in the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan.  This redevelopment, being located one block from Carling Avenue in an area characterized by vacant or underutilized industrial sites, enhances the urban streetscape and removes a non-conforming industrial use.  The proposed height is in line with the surrounding context and the design of the building creates an adequate transition to low-profile residential. 

 

Compatibility and Design

 

Sections 2.5.1 and 4.11 of the Official Plan outline the objectives and policies for compatible development.  Among the considerations are: traffic, vehicular access, parking requirements, sunlight, amenity area, built form, and relationship to supporting community services.  The proposal was also reviewed in light of the Urban Design Guidelines for High-Rise Housing.  The following is an analysis of the applicable criteria, which demonstrates that the proposed development satisfies the compatibility tests of the Official Plan in a way that does not result in undue adverse impacts.

 

a) Traffic/transportation:  A Community Transportation Study was submitted in conjunction with the development applications.  The study takes into consideration the three proposed high-rise developments in the immediate area.  The study finds that the proposed development will generate a maximum peak hour traffic volume of 50 vehicles per hour, which is less than 10 per cent of the total peak hour traffic generated by the three proposals combined.  Other impacts on the transportation network, such as road modifications, and pursuing improvements to the transportation system, will be addressed through the Site Plan Control process. 

 

b) Vehicular access:  The vehicular access is proposed to be located on Champagne Avenue, which has direct access to Carling Avenue via a traffic control signal one block to the south. 

 

c) Parking requirements:  The visitor parking reduction takes into account actual visitor parking usage, proximity to higher-order transit, and the presence of on-street parking and public parking lots in the general area.  Additionally, the presence of two car-sharing spaces (i.e. Vrtucar) spaces within the building contributes to an overall reduction in demand for vehicles in the area. 

 

d) Outdoor amenity areas:  The roof of the one-storey podium is useable area and functions as the amenity area for the residents. 

 

e) Sunlight: A Sun Shadow Study was provided which shows the extent of shadows generated by the proposed development.  Shadows from the building measured at the key times of the year primarily impact the surface parking lot to the north and the lands adjacent to the O-train corridor that are expected to redevelop in the near future.  The shadow impacts of the proposed building on the existing low-profile residential neighbourhood to the west are minimal compared with that already experienced as a result of the adjacent 14-storey residential building.

 

f) Supporting neighbourhood services:  The inclusion of car-sharing spaces within the building provides a neighbourhood service to the surrounding community.  The site is within one block of a City park, and is close to the Dow’s Lake greenspace.

 

g) Built form:  The proposed development incorporates low-rise ground-oriented townhouses along Hickory Street, which continues the existing pattern of development present to the west.  The treatment of the Champagne Avenue frontage includes articulation of the lower portions of the building in order to emphasize the pedestrian realm, create a more human-scale environment, and to continue the established low-rise development pattern in the area.  The proposed 12-storey building incorporates an additional setback on the upper two storeys creating a distinct base, middle, and top of the building, which creates interest and lessens the impact of height.  Building height is discussed in more detail in the Secondary Plan section above.

 

Other design and compatibility elements, such as noise, lighting, fencing, and microclimate (wind), will be addressed through the Site Plan Control process. 

 

Servicing

 

A servicing study was provided in conjunction with the development applications and demonstrated that the existing services are adequate to support the proposed development.  Staff have reviewed the study and have no issues with the findings with respect to capacity.  Further detailed review will be undertaken as part of the Site Plan Control process.

 

Zoning

 

The Zoning By-law Amendment application requests reductions in certain yard requirements.  The reduction in corner side yard setback along Champagne Avenue will achieve a design that will put more emphasis on the pedestrian scale, by bringing the lower two storeys of the high-rise closer to the street.  The public road allowance for Champagne Avenue is generous and will still allow for considerable landscaping, street trees, and a sidewalk all on public lands.  The rear yard to the north abuts an existing parking lot and the rear yard reduction in this location will contribute to creating a more continuous streetwall along Champagne Avenue.  The requested 1.9-metre interior side yard setback applies to the one-storey podium only, the top of which, given the grade differential from the subject site to the lots abutting to the west, will be nearly level with the rear yards of the abutting properties.  There will be a 6.2-metre setback for the high-rise building, which is more consistent with what is currently required.  These changes will be incorporated into the Zoning By-law amendment via the schedule. 

 

Other Issues

 

Site-related issues such as landscaping, servicing, and noise attenuation will be addressed through the Site Plan Control process. 

 

Summary

 

In summary, the proposed increase in height from four to 12 storeys supports the direction of the Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement, and strategic directions of the Official Plan.  The high-density residential development, which is located in proximity to a rapid transit station, will contribute to a greater housing mix and satisfies density targets for the area.  The proposed change in designation to a Residential High Profile designation fulfils the objectives of the Secondary Plan.  Compatibility and design criteria, transportation, and servicing have been addressed satisfactorily.  In light of the discussion above, staff recommend approval of the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment applications.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS

 

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority and City staff have indicated that there are no issues from an environmental point of view regarding the proposed Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment. 

 

Several aspects of the proposal take into consideration its environmental impacts.  The proposal’s high-density built form, location within a mixed-use area, and proximity to transit make efficient use of land and transportation infrastructure.  The proposal includes greenspace and landscaping over the parking garage, which contributes to stormwater retention and reduced runoff, air and water quality, building energy use, and reduced “urban heat island” effect. 

 

According to Schedule M of the Secondary Plan, the site has a “low priority” contamination hazard rating.  Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments have been completed in conjunction with the Site Plan application and conditions dealing with potential for site contamination, such as the need for a Record of Site Condition, will be included in the Site Plan approval. 

 

RURAL IMPLICATIONS

 

N/A

 

CONSULTATION

 

Notice of this application was carried out in accordance with the City's Public Notification and Consultation Policy.  The Ward Councillor is aware of this application and the staff recommendation. 

 

The issues can be summarized as follows: increased traffic volumes, height is not appropriate, the Community Design Plan should proceed first, lack of greenspace, and servicing constraints.

 

Detailed responses to the notification/circulation are provided in Document 6.

COMMENTS BY THE WARD COUNCILLOR(S)

 

The Councillor is aware of this report.

 

LEGAL/RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS:

 

If this matter is appealed to the Ontario Municipal Board it is anticipated that a one-week hearing would result.  If the application is refused by Council, reasons must be provided and on appeal, an external planner would need to be retained.  It is anticipated that the cost would be in the range of $25,000 to $30,000.

 

CITY STRATEGIC PLAN

 

The proposed development and planning applications align with the City Strategic Plan in that it respects the existing urban fabric, neighbourhood form, and the limits of existing hard services so that new growth is integrated seamlessly with established communities; creates a walking, transit, and cycling oriented community; and contributes toward achieving a 30-per cent modal split by 2021. 

 

TECHNICAL IMPLICATIONS

 

N/A

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

 

There are no direct financial implications associated with this report. 

 

APPLICATION PROCESS TIMELINE STATUS

This application was processed by the "On Time Decision Date" established for the processing of Official Plan amendment applications.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

 

Document 1    Location Map

Document 2    Proposed Official Plan Amendment

Document 3    Details of Recommended Zoning

Document 4    Schedule xxx

Document 5    Proposed Site Plan

Document 6    Consultation Details

 

DISPOSITION

 

City Clerk and Solicitor Department, Legislative Services to notify the owner, applicant, OttawaScene.com, 174 Colonnade Road, Unit #33, Ottawa, ON  K2E 7J5, Ghislain Lamarche, Program Manager, Assessment, Financial Services Branch (Mail Code:  26-76) of City Council’s decision.

 

Planning and Growth Management to prepare the by-law adopting the Official Plan Amendment, forward to Legal Services, and undertake the statutory notification.

 

Legal Services to forward the implementing by-law to City Council

 


LOCATION MAP                                                                                                DOCUMENT 1


PROPOSED OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT                                             DOCUMENT 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

Official Plan Amendment    Modification du Plan directeur

 

To the Official Plan of the City of Ottawa

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Land use

Utilisation du sol


 

 

INDEX

 

 

 

THE STATEMENT OF COMPONENTS

 

PART A – THE PREAMBLE does not constitute part of the Amendment.

Purpose

Location

Basis

 

PART B – THE AMENDMENT consisting of the following text constitutes Amendment. No. __ to the Official Plan of the City of Ottawa (2003).

 

Introduction

Details of the Amendment

Implementation and Interpretation

Schedule A of Amendment __ – Official Plan of the City of Ottawa

 

 

 



PART A – THE PREAMBLE

 

Purpose

 

The purpose of this Amendment is to change the Land Use designation of the property from Residential Low Profile to Residential High Profile.  The Amendment will facilitate the redevelopment of the property with a 12-storey apartment building.

 

Location

 

The lands affected by this Amendment are located on the north side of Hickory Street and west side of Champagne Street.  The lands are known municipally as 100 Champagne Avenue South.

 

Basis

 

Background

 

The proposal consists of a 12-storey high-rise apartment dwelling with 94 units fronting onto Champagne Avenue South, and a three-storey multiple attached (townhouse) dwelling with six units fronting directly onto Hickory Street.  The purpose of the Official Plan Amendment is to amend the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan from Residential Low Profile to Residential High Profile. 

 

Context

 

Section 2 of the Planning Act outlines those land use matters that are of provincial interest, to which all City planning decisions shall have regard.  The provincial interests that apply to this site include the appropriate location of growth and development and the promotion of development that is designed to be sustainable to support public transit and to be oriented to pedestrians.  In addition, the Planning Act requires that all City planning decisions be consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS), a document that provides further policies on matters of provincial interest related to land use development. PPS policies indicate that there should be an appropriate mix of uses to support strong, liveable, and healthy communities.

 

The proposal allows for development of a density that will efficiently use land and contribute to a balanced community. The site is conveniently located near transit (Carling O-train station), and nearby residential and commercial areas to allow for access by pedestrians and transit.  The site is located within one block of an Arterial Road (Carling Avenue), which provides good access to the site and is a focus for existing and future mixed-use development.  Staff conclude that the proposal is consistent with the matters of provincial interest as outlined in the Planning Act and PPS.

 

Section 2.3.1 of the Official Plan sets broad strategic directions to meet the challenge of managing growth, providing infrastructure, maintaining environmental integrity and creating livable communities within Ottawa. To meet these challenges, polices are set out to pursue a mix of land uses and compact forms of development which in turn will enable the City to support a high-quality transit system and make better use of existing infrastructure and roads.  The proposed development will support this overall goal.

 

The site is designated as “Mixed Use Centre” on Schedule B of the Official Plan.  The Mixed-Use Centre designation permits a broad variety of uses and encourages transit-supportive land uses with the goal of creating complete neighbourhoods.  These areas are intended to include a broad range of land uses, such as offices, retail, schools, hotels, hospitals, large institutional buildings, recreation and entertainment facilities, entertainment uses, services, high and medium-density residential uses, and mixed-use development.  The Mixed-Use Centre designation identifies areas that are strategically located with respect to the transportation system and are accessible by transit, walking, cycling and automobile.  They are centered on rapid transit stations and contain one or more arterial roads with all-day frequent transit service.  Mixed-use centres are one of the target areas identified for intensification.  The Bayview-Preston Mixed Use Centre has a minimum target density at 2031 of 285 people and jobs per net hectare. 

 

The proposed development has a density of 669 people and jobs per net hectare, and thus meets the minimum target density.  It is located within 600 metres of the Carling O-train station, near arterial roads, and multi-use pathways, which facilitate travel by all modes and encourages transit use.  The proposal redevelops an underutilized site in an area that is characterized by several properties in transition from industrial uses to more intense development.  The proposed high-density residential use is specifically permitted in the Mixed Use Centre designation, and fulfils the housing objectives through the inclusion of multiple types of housing.  In light of the above, the proposed development is consistent with the direction of this land use designation. 

 

The Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan in Volume 2 of the Official Plan seeks to reinforce the area as a diverse inner city neighbourhood with a broad mix of uses.  It will allow major redevelopment that transitions to existing lower profile residential areas.  The southwest quadrant, where the subject site is located, will incorporate new office and residential development, which will transition down in height when moving away from Carling Avenue.  The plan also seeks to enhance Preston Street as the main pedestrian-oriented shopping area and community focus.  The “Residential Low Profile” designation, which applies to the subject site permits predominately residential low profile uses to preserve its residential character. 

 

At the time the Secondary Plan was developed in the early 1990s, the use of the rail corridor for light rail had not yet been contemplated, and thus proximity to rapid transit was not considered as a factor in determining the land use designations in the plan.  The O-train station being less than 600m from the site provides rationale for reconsidering the low-profile residential designation in favour of a more intense form of development that takes advantage of the proximity of rapid transit.

 

The site is flanked by an existing 14-storey residential building to the north, existing high-rise office buildings to the south, and lands approved for high-rise mixed-used development to the east southeast.  Council approved an Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law amendment on the site directly to the east for an 11-storey residential building in 2002, which contributes to this evolving environment.  The proposed building height of 42 metres is in keeping with the established and unbuilt context in the surrounding area.  The site represents the edge between an existing low-profile neighbourhood (heights ranging from 11m to 18m) and an emerging high-profile neighbourhood.  Additionally, the grade change from west to east is approximately one storey, which contributes to reducing the impact of height as perceived from the west.

 

The proposed amendment to “Residential High Profile” will allow redevelopment in accordance with the vision set forth in the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan.  This redevelopment, being located one block from Carling Avenue in an area characterized by vacant or underutilized industrial sites, enhances the urban streetscape and removes a non-conforming industrial use.  The proposed height is in line with the surrounding context and design of the building creates an adequate transition to low-profile residential. 

 

Sections 2.5.1 and 4.11 of the Official Plan outline the objectives and policies for compatible development.  Among the considerations are: traffic, vehicular access, parking requirements, sunlight, amenity area, built form, and relationship to supporting community services.  The proposal was also reviewed in light of the Urban Design Guidelines for High-rise Housing.  The following is an analysis of the applicable criteria, which demonstrates that the proposed development satisfies the compatibility tests of the Official Plan in a way that does not result in undue adverse impacts.

 

a) Traffic/transportation:  A Community Transportation Study was submitted in conjunction with the development applications.  The study takes into consideration the three proposed high-rise developments in the immediate area.  The study finds that the proposed development will generate a maximum peak hour traffic volume of 50 vehicles per hour, which is less than 10% of the total peak hour traffic generated by the three proposals combined.  Other impacts on the transportation network, such as road modifications, will be addressed through the Site Plan Control process. 

 

b) Sunlight: A Sun Shadow Study was provided which shows the extent of shadows generated by the proposed development.  Shadows from the building measured at the key times of the year primarily impact the surface parking lot to the north and the lands adjacent to the O-train corridor that are expected to redevelop in the future.  The shadow impacts of the proposed building on the existing low-profile residential neighbourhood to the west are minimal compared with that already experienced as a result of the adjacent 14-storey residential building.

 

c) Supporting neighbourhood services:  The inclusion of car-sharing spaces within the building provides a neighbourhood service to the surrounding community.  The site is within one block of a City Park, and is in close proximity to the Dow’s Lake greenspace, thus is within close proximity to existing services. 

 

d) Built form:  The proposed development incorporates low-rise ground-oriented townhouses along Hickory Street, which continues the existing pattern of development present to the west.  The treatment of the Champagne frontage includes articulation of the lower portions of the building in order to emphasize the pedestrian realm, create a more human-scale environment, and to continue the established low-rise development pattern in the area.  The proposed 12-storey building incorporates an additional setback on the upper two storeys creating a distinct base, middle, and top of the building, which creates interest and lessens the impact of height.  Building height is discussed in more detail in the Secondary Plan section above.

 

Other design and compatibility elements, such as noise, lighting, fencing, and microclimate (wind), will be addressed through the concurrent Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Control process. 

 

PART B – THE AMENDMENT

 

1.                  Introduction

 

All of this part of this document entitled Part B – The Amendment consisting of the following text and the attached Schedule A constitutes Amendment No. __ to the Official Plan of the City of Ottawa.

 

2.                  Details of the Amendment

 

The Preston Champagne Secondary Plan of the Official Plan Volume 2A of the City of Ottawa is hereby amended as follows:

2.1.            Schedule L “Preston-Champagne Land Use” is amended to include the following change as shown on Schedule A attached hereto:

                                                  i.      redesignate the lands known municipally as 100 Champagne Avenue South from Residential Low Profile to Residential High Profile;

                                                ii.      add Residential High Profile to the land use categories

 

2.2.            Section 6.2 “Vision” is amended by adding the following provisions immediately following the last sentence of the text entitled “Southwest Quadrant”: 

 

“High profile residential development is permitted on the north west intersection of Hickory Street and Champagne Avenue.” 

 

2.3.            Section 6.4 “Policies” is amended by adding a new subsection 6.4 (f) and re-numbering the existing subsections (f) to (aa) inclusive, as follows: 

 

Residential High Profile  f)  City Council shall permit high profile residential uses within this area.  Limited commercial uses are permitted on Champagne, but the predominant use shall be residential.  Low and medium profile residential uses are also permitted.”

 

3.                  Implementation and Interpretation

 

Implementation and Interpretation of this Amendment shall be made having regard to applicable policies set out in Volume I – Primary Plan of the City of Ottawa Official Plan.

 

 


SCHEDULE A

image description
DETAILS OF RECOMMENDED ZONING                                                      DOCUMENT 3

 

Proposed Changes to the Comprehensive Zoning By-law

 

 

1.        The Zoning Map of City of Ottawa Zoning By-law 2008-250 is amended by changing the zoning of the lands known municipally as 100 Champagne Avenue South from R4M (Residential Fourth Density Subzone M) to R5P Sxxx (Residential Fifth Density Subzone P, Schedule xxx);

 

2.        Add to Part 17 the schedule as shown in Document 4 as Schedule xxx.


SCHEDULE xxx                                                                                                   DOCUMENT 4

 


PROPOSED SITE PLAN                                                                                    DOCUMENT 5

 


CONSULTATION DETAILS                                                                             DOCUMENT 6

 

NOTIFICATION AND CONSULTATION PROCESS

 

Notification and public consultation was undertaken in accordance with the Public Notification and Public Consultation Policy approved by City Council for Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments.  There were seven comments received from the public on this proposal.

SUMMARY OF PUBLIC INPUT

Comment: Parking

The proposal for 109 parking spaces for 100 dwelling units does not fit with the City’s plan to encourage a pattern and density of development that supports transit, cycling and walking as viable alternatives to the automobile.  The City should restrict the number of parking spots to support its strategic direction.  Another comment indicated that six visitor spaces for 100 units is not adequate. 

 

Response:

Except for the reduction in visitor parking, the parking proposed for the development falls within the minimum and maximum parking requirements expressed in the Zoning By-law for this type of use when within 600m of a rapid transit station.  The justification for the reduction in visitor parking is described in the Discussion section above. 

 

Comment: Transportation

Area local and collector streets cannot handle the traffic proposed by this and the surrounding development proposals.  The cumulative impacts of development in the adjoining properties will add two thousand cars, and this needs to be considered.  The City should consider ways of ensuring that Hickory, Sherwood and other residential roads in the area do not effectively become collector roads for people trying to get to the Queensway and Preston.  It is suggested that “no entry during peak hours” signs be installed at Hickory/Champagne, Champagne/Beech, and Hickory/Loretta to divert traffic to Carling.  It may be necessary to block the road, or convert to one-way traffic local streets, such as Beech, Hickory, Bayswater and Loretta. It is also suggested that the signal timing at Carling/Champagne be adjusted to encourage drivers to use Carling.

 

Response:

The Community Transportation Study takes into consideration all three new development proposals in the area, and indicates that the impact on local and collector streets in the area is relatively minor.  Suggestions for specific road modifications and transportation improvements will be addressed through the Site Plan Control process. 

 

Comment: Servicing

It is publicly known but not well understood that the City lacks servicing capacity, particularly sewer capacity to serve the development proposals coming forward from this and neighbouring properties.  It doesn’t look like this study considers the cumulative effect of 100 Champagne, 855 Carling and 125 Hickory.  The engineering consultants make the following observation and then conclude that Hickory Street sanitary and storm sewers “have sufficient available capacity to allow the connection of increased sanitary and storm sewers flows from the proposed use of this site compared to the previous use which discharged directly to Champagne Street sanitary and storm collectors.” 

 

Response:

The servicing study did consider all three current development proposals.  This area was formerly a combined sewer area (storm and sanitary sewer in one pipe) and has been separated in the last few years, meaning that storm drainage from this area has now been removed from the Cave Creek sanitary collector sewer.  The sanitary flows that are being added due to the development of all three proposals are small compared to the storm drainage that used to be directed to the sanitary system prior to separation.  Stormwater management controls are being imposed on all new developments to ensure that future peak flows from the respective sites are actually less than existing peak flows.  Also, this being a partially separated area, foundation drains are not connected to homes meaning that surcharging of the storm system will not lead to basement flooding. 

 

Comment: Height

There are several comments with varying recommendations on height: same height as single-detached homes, no higher than six storeys, and no higher than eight storeys.  The extra height impacts immediately the sunlight to surrounding homes.  Infill should be done on a reasonable scale.   Development of the lands in question must adhere to the "Low Profile Residential" designation as provided in the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan. The transition from  single family dwellings along Beech, Hickory and the surrounding streets should respect the compatibility factor advocated in the Official  Plan and all other planning guidelines.  A clear boundary should be created between the “established neighbourhood” and the “development area”, including a transitional zone located within the “ developmental area”.  The "Emerald Towers" is an anomaly in the area,  and should not be used as a precedent. 

 

Response:

Height, sunlight, transition and context are all addressed in the Discussion section above. 

 

Comment: Greenspace

There should be more green space incorporated into the development, including trees, landscaping, gardens.  Large trees provide shade and act as filters for the pollution generated from cars, etc.

 

Response:

New street trees are proposed along both Hickory Street and Champagne Avenue, in addition to landscaping being provided adjacent to the street on private land, as well as part of the amenity area above the one-storey podium.  The site is within one block of a City park. 

 

Comment:  Community development

The community needs commercial development, services, and a grocery store within walking distance.  The community should be designed comprehensively, thus the Bayview-Carling Community Design Plan (CDP) go ahead first before this is considered. 

 

Response:

The need for locally-oriented services is understood, and services of this kind are proposed in an adjacent development proposal.  The Bayview-Carling CDP is underway, however, there is no legal mechanism currently in place to restrict development applications from being considered in the interim. 

 

Comment: Privacy

There is no privacy between the new units in the high-rise and the townhouse units.

 

Response:

The high-rise dwelling and townhouses share the same amenity space on the roof of the one-storey podium, and the development is conceived as one entity.  Homebuyers will be well aware of the arrangement present in this development upon making their purchase and will make decisions according to their preferred lifestyle. 

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION COMMENTS

Civic Hospital Neighbourhood Association

 

I am writing on behalf of the Civic Hospital Neighbourhood Association (CHNA) to comment on the proposed development at 100 Champagne Avenue South.  To begin, I would like to state that CHNA understands that the City of Ottawa’s Official plan (Official Plan Amendment 76) promotes intensification as a strategy to manage growth in a sustainable way and that it has targeted areas near rapid transit for intensification, including the area near 100 Champagne which is located next to the Carling O-Train stop.  The CHNA also understands that the primary goal of the City’s Official plan is sustainability, “where sustainable development is defined as ‘development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”  We fully support this goal and hope to work with the City to manage growth in a way that meets the needs of our community, both now and in the future.  With this in mind, we would like to raise a number of concerns in connection with 100 Champagne.

 

Transportation study conclusions: The 100 Champagne Avenue: Residential Complex – Community Transportation Study concludes with the following comments:

 

“The principal impact of the currently underway and proposed developments (Domicile, Arnon and Mastercraft Starwood) on local streets is anticipated to occur on Sherwood Drive at Carling Avenue, based on the assumption that the additional traffic to/from Carling Avenue west of Champagne Avenue will likely get redistributed to/from Sherwood Drive at the Carling/Sherwood signalized intersection in the same proportions as currently prevail at that intersection.  Consequently, the two-way peak traffic volumes on Sherwood Drive between Carling Avenue and Breezehill Avenue are projected to increase by approximately 70 vph by 2016. With less than 500 vph two-way total at this location during peaks, the projected volumes are still considered to be reasonable for a collector road. It is noteworthy that the two-way peak hour volumes on Sherwood Drive at Parkdale Avenue are approximately 50% of the two-way volumes at Carling Avenue. Since an average of 85% of the traffic on Carling Avenue east of Sherwood Drive originates from/is destined for Carling Avenue, west of Sherwood Drive, the resultant 15% of the projected increased traffic volumes resulting from the proposed Domicile, Mastercraft Starwood and Arnon developments is considered to be a relatively minor increase in Sherwood Avenue traffic volumes, as it applies principally to the section of Sherwood Drive between Carling Avenue and Breezehill Drive. The existing traffic volumes on the local road network, Hickory, Breezehill, Beech, Loretta, etc., are relatively minor and are expected to increase by less than 40 vehicles per hour, as a result of all the proposed developments in the area, including Domicile, Arnon and Mastercraft Starwood.  As the overall traffic impact of the proposed Domicile residential development at 100 Champagne Avenue represents a net increase of 5% to 7% in additional peak hour traffic volumes likely to be generated by all the known development proposals in the area at this time, and as the additional traffic impact on adjacent arterial and collector streets is judged to be quite minor, not resulting in the need for improvements of any significance, the proposed rezoning and OPA are judged to be appropriate in this case.”

 

The CHNA does not agree with this conclusion. Much of the information collected on traffic counts was collected during the dead of summer and a period of major construction on Preston Street. We think it safe to assume that these factors affected both the volume of traffic and the way people use our roads.  We would like to point out that a consulting firm called Delcan collected information for the Carling and Sherwood intersection (the intersection identified as having “the principal impact” ) on August 19, 2009. Traffic counts for Carling and Champagne were collected on August 17, 2009. Counts for Beech and Preston were collected on July 18, 2006. Counts for Parkdale and Sherwood were collected on June 30, 2009. Also, there does not appear to be traffic counts for some of the intersections that are likely to be most affected: Champagne and Beech; Hickory and Loretta; Hickory and Breezehill; Hickory and Bayswater.

 

The proposed development at 100 Champagne and other proposed developments in the area would add more than 1240 vehicles to our streets. Most of these vehicles are likely to arrive and leave during peak traffic hours. This increase in traffic would undoubtedly and negatively impact the livability of our streets. We wholeheartedly agree with the late Donald Appleyard.  Appleyard, who was a professor of urban design,  believed that social street activities are greatly reduced and feelings of well being in neighbourhoods are threatened when traffic volumes increase beyond what is considered normal by local residents (Source: Donald Appleyard, Livable Streets. Berkeley, CA.: University of California , 1981).

 

The CHNA would like to work with the City of Ottawa to preserve the livability of our streets by maintaining current traffic patterns to the extent possible. One of the best ways to do this would be to ensure that traffic emanating from developments such as 100 Champagne is diverted to Carling.

 

The City could also reduce the number of vehicles that proposed developments such as 100 Champagne are scheduled to add to our streets by reducing the number of vehicle parking spaces. In theory, this measure would also strengthen the link between development and public transit. At the moment, the proposal for 100 Champagne would add a parking spot/vehicle per apartment or townhouse, as would the proposed development at 125 Hickory.

 

Reliability of information: The CHNA also has concerns about the reliability of the information provided by Delcan’s transportation study. Delcan’s study was prepared for the developer (Domicile). We have a very hard time believing that this document is impartial and suspect that Delcan may be providing information in a selective manner.  For example, Delcan provides collision data for study area roads between 2005 to 2008 and concludes “Analysis indicated no particular trends in collisions along the subject section of Carling Avenue. Most of the collisions (76%) involved only property damage, indicating low impact speeds, while the rest were non-fatal.” One might assume, based on this information, that there were no fatal traffic accidents between 2005 and 2008 but this would be incorrect. Collision data only provides information about vehicles hitting vehicles. It does not include information about vehicles hitting people. We know of at least one fatal accident that occurred in March of 2005. A man and his dog were tragically killed by a car at Carling and Sherwood.

(Source:http://members.shaw.ca/leatherlion/benkozak/index.htm).

 

No Community Development Plan: The Carling Bayview Light Rail Transit Corridor Community Design Plan is not yet completed. Development is usurping planning at this point. We think the City needs to work with the CHNA to address problems that are created by this fact.

 

In short, the CHNA believes that the City needs to do more to ensure that development is sustainable for both current and future residents, as mandated in the Official Plan, and that it incorporates the seven guiding principles of Ottawa’s 20/20 initiative into its plan by working towards stated objectives such as the following:

 

•The link between development and public transit is strengthened.

• Focusing on alternative modes of transport and reducing the reliance on the automobile for improved air quality.

• A better-balanced transportation system, which puts more emphasis on transit, cycling and pedestrian facilities, and improves mobility and access for all citizens, including those who do not own a car. 

•A full range of commercial goods and services for residents is available at appropriate locations throughout the city. 

 

Recommendations for 100 Champagne Proposal

 

The CHNA would like to make the following recommendations with a view to addressing some of the above concerns and helping the City take measured steps to implement the Official Plan and 20/20 objectives:

1) Reduce the number of vehicle parking spaces and add bicycle and additional Vrtucar parking spaces.

2) In order to divert traffic to the Carling arterial, we recommend the following:

a)         ‘No entry from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 3:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m’ signs at Hickory and Champagne (going North and West) to divert traffic to Carling during rush hours.

b)         A‘No entry from 3:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m’ sign at Champagne and Beech to encourage traffic to enter from Carling at the end of the day.

c) A ‘No entry from 3:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m’ sign at Hickory and Loretta to encourage traffic to enter from Carling at the end of the day.

 

This proposal should encourage the proper use of the Carling arterial if people are respectful of the signs. If they are not, it may be necessary to block the road at Champagne and Beech as well as Hickory and Loretta.

 

3) Ensure that City of Ottawa staff make it a priority to find solutions to other traffic and parking issues in the CHNA catchment area, especially in light of the fact that developments such as 100 Champagne are proceeding prior to the completion of the Carling Bayview Light Rail Transit Corridor Community Design Plan.

 

4) Do not consider any new developments or zoning by-law amendments in the area until the Carling Bayview Light Rail Transit Corridor Community Design Plan (CDP) is completed. Ensure that the CDP gives priority to adding services and infrastructure in the area so that residents can walk or bike rather than drive.

 

Thank you for considering our views. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact either myself (Katherine Steinhoff) or CHNA President Amanda Farris.

 

Response:

Most of these comments have been addressed in the Discussion section or in the responses to public comments above.  Experience has shown that summer traffic volumes do not differ significantly from the rest of the year.  Transportation studies that are provided for development applications are prepared by professional consultants, and are reviewed by City staff to ensure they are satisfactory.

 

 

 


OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING - 100 CHAMPAGNE AVENUE SOUTH

             MODIFICATION DU PLAN OFFICIEL ET ZONAGE - 100, AVENUE CHAMPAGNE SUD

ACS2010-ICS-PGM-0162                                                                          KITCHISSIPPI (15)               

 

(This matter is Subject to Bill 51)

 

The following written submissions were received with respect to this item, which were circulated and are held on file with the City Clerk:

·         E-mail received 13 September 2010 from Katherine Steinhoff, Civic Hospital Neighbourhood Association

·         Comments received 13 September 2010 from Mary Girard

 

Kalle Hakala provided an overview of the application and staff’s rationale for recommending approval.  He did so by means of a PowerPoint presentation, a copy of which is held on file with the City Clerk.

 

In response to questions from Councillor Leadman with respect to what had been done to address the community’s concerns, Mr. Hakala confirmed that staff were in discussion with the applicant regarding transportation improvements to the area as part of the Site Plan process.  With respect to the design of the building, he noted that the lower portions of the building were moved closer to the street, to give more of a human scale and match the existing character of the area.  He further noted that other things were done before submission of the application, including the inclusion of multiple attached units along Hickory Street to match the character of the area.  Also, more definition was given to the upper portion of the building to reduce the impact of the height.

 

Councillor Leadman noted that 52 requests for changes were submitted to the applicant.  Mr. Hakala expressed his understanding that the applicant had provided a response to each, and noted staff felt the responses were adequate to proceed with the Zoning By-law amendment and Official Plan (OP) Amendment.  Although there are some other minor issues that remain, they will be addressed through the site plan process.  Mr. Hakala also confirmed that there would be two Vrtucar car sharing spaces and bicycle parking in accordance with the Zoning By-law.

 

In response to questions from Councillor Leadman with respect to the consideration given to the Secondary Plan, Mr. Hakala explained that staff follows the Secondary Plan when it in force; however, they can always re-evaluate it based on new information in considering a specific development proposal.  In this case, the Secondary Plan was approved prior to the O-train and the designation of the corridor as a rapid transit route for future expansion. He also noted that the area was undergoing a Community Design Plan (CDP) process. 

 

Councillor Leadman expressed the community’s desire to have no further development approved in the area before the Carling-Bayview CDP was complete.  She expressed concern that the area was facing so many re-zoning applications without an overall model in place for what the area can support.  She wondered what steps could be taken with future applications to address overall issues such as traffic and infrastructure. 

 

Mr. Hakala explained that staff must adhere to the mandatory timelines set out in the Planning Act for processing OP and Zoning By-law amendments, or face appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) for lack of decision.  He further noted that, through the OP and Zoning By-law amendment process, staff considered the broader implications of the development on such things as servicing and transportation.  He further confirmed that this effort would continue for future developments in terms of traffic that is generated in the area.

 

In response to further questions from Councillor Leadman, John Moser, General Manager of Planning and Growth Management confirmed that staff adheres to the Secondary Plan; however, there are mechanisms and circumstances where staff look at proposing changes to them. 

 

Committee then heard from the following public delegations:

 

Shirley Reyes, Civic Hospital Neighbourhood Association (CHNA) spoke in opposition to the proposed amendment.  She raised the following points:

 

With respect to the environmental impact, she expressed the importance of having a clean environment and the benefits of having trees surrounding the dwellings in a community to provide shade and other benefits.  She conveyed her concern that this development was denying the setback that would enable this to happen, suggesting the tree cover was inadequate

 

With respect to height, she argued that the height of the proposed building was excessive, and there was inadequate transitioning between high-profile development near Carling Avenue and the existing low-profile residential development.  She noted that the development amounted to a tripling of the permitted height in the Secondary Plan, suggesting this was an unacceptable increase incompatible with the neighbourhood comprised of single family dwellings.  She expressed the Neighbourhood Association’s position that the permitted height should not exceed six metres.

 

On the issue of traffic impacts, she noted that the OP states there should not be adverse impact on a viable community, and maintained that this was a viable community and would be adversely impacted by the traffic from this and other proposed developments in the area.  She noted the neighbourhood was already heavily impacted by traffic, suggesting the Parkdale Avenue Queensway interchange was already overused and failing.  She also suggested Parkdale Avenue carries more cars in one hour in one lane than Carling Avenue does in three lanes; as a result, traffic from new developments would need to be funnelled to Carling Avenue, which would ultimately become congested as well.  She further noted that all the roads in the area were two lane residential streets, regardless of their official designation, and could not accommodate the existing traffic much less additional pressure from the new development in the area. She pointed out that the rapid transit expansion would not happen for another ten years.   

 

Ms. Reyes also asserted that the traffic study prepared by Delcan was flawed and biased, given that it was commissioned by the developer, and did not take into consideration the concerns of the community.  She argued that there was a need for an independent traffic impact study, which should not be done by the current consultant. 

 

With regards to consultation, Ms. Reyes argued that it was insufficient.  She noted that she had only ever heard one presentation in August 2009, and suggested the community was never engaged in meaningful discussions on this site as there was only one presentation in August 2009.  She suggested the developers never engaged the community in a dialogue about this development.  She expressed frustration with the appearance that the community was not being listened too, and that Committee would “rubber stamp” developments.  Ms. Reyes also referenced another development by the applicants, near Loretta Avenue and Breezehill Avenue, which she suggested was a mistake.  She urged Committee not to repeat that mistake, and not to allow the development to proceed as proposed.

 

Miguel Tremblay, FoTenn Consultants was present on behalf of the applicant, Domicile Developments, in support of the application.  He was accompanied by Ron Jack of Delcan, who spoke to transportation issues and the traffic study. He began by noting that the area had been identified as a growth area, with several landowners expanding in the quadrant and a transit station planned.  He suggested there were clear opportunities for intensification to accommodate some of the City’s vision for growth in the area.

 

With respect to comments made with respect to sustainability, Mr. Tremblay proposed that there was a reasonable amount of parking on the site, and the intent was to meet the requirements of the By-law and not burden the adjacent community with on-street parking, without providing excessive parking.  He also suggested the project made a meaningful attempt to provide a green edge and noted there would be street trees and a rooftop patio.  He acknowledged that some of the setbacks were smaller in order to meet the City’s urban design objectives.

 

To the issue of building height and transitioning, Mr. Tremblay highlighted the transitioning provided by the planned townhomes on Hickory Street, which he suggested were in keeping with the fabric of the neighbourhood and a nod to the Secondary Plan.  He noted the proposal also responded to the greater building heights that are expected in the areas surrounding the transit station on the east side of Champagne Avenue, some of which are approved by Committee.  He felt that development, plus the existing 14-storey building, provided a meaningful degree of transition, and that the OP objectives had been addressed.

 

Mr. Jack then spoke to the transportation issues and Delcan’s approach in undertaking the traffic study.  He began by highlighting the close proximity of the site to the existing O-Train corridor and planned rapid transit expansion.  He noted the City would be investing heavily in rapid transit, and the purpose of creating density around transit stations was to allow people to live where they are not dependant on cars.  He suggested that allowing this quadrant to develop density of office and residential was a responsible transportation solution. 

 

Mr. Jack noted that his firm had done the traffic impact studies for several proposals in the area.  He suggested this allowed them to build one upon the other and provide staff with the benefit of the overall traffic picture for the area.  He noted that, having done a Parkdale Area transportation study, they were aware of the area’s transportation issues and the traffic volumes on area streets.  He noted that Sherwood Drive was not a local street, but rather a collector street.  He also stated that Carling Avenue carries 25-20 per cent more traffic than Parkdale Avenue. 

 

With respect to this development, Mr. Jack indicated that it would generate less than one new vehicle per minute to surrounding roads at peak hours.  He further noted that, due to the multiple routes available to access the building, any one street or intersection would be minimally impacted and not every car would access the Parkdale Avenue Queensway interchange. 

 

In response to questions from the Chair, Mr. Tremblay confirmed that the City provides guidelines for the traffic impact studies.  At the outset, there is a pre-consultation with City staff to determine the issues and the work is then scoped to those issues, and staff reviews it throughout the process.  

 

In response to questions from Councillor Leadman, Mr. Tremblay explained that for mixed-use centres there are targets for jobs and new residents.  He noted that the staff report speaks to a target density in this district of 285 people and jobs per net hectare, and proposed that the development fit within this requirement.  He further noted that mixed-use areas are clustered in proximity to transit and arterial roadways, and are intended to be in areas that are already characterized by high-rise buildings.  

 

Councillor Leadman noted that when speaking of transitioning Mr. Tremblay had referenced another property that had not yet received approval, and suggested this was inappropriate, and argued that development should not move forward.

 

In response to questions from Councillor Leadman with regards to the modal split used for the traffic study, Mr. Jack explained that the split was approximately 30 to 40 per cent for walk, bike and transit, with the residual being automobile.  While he did not believe any of the studies for the area had assumed a 52 per cent modal split, he suggested perhaps some the broader projections for the area for the OP horizon were aiming for that split.  Mr. Jack further explained that in undertaking a traffic study they look at the proximity of the site to transit and employment opportunities and make an educated assumption on what is an appropriate modal split.  He noted that they tried to be transparent and fair in those assumptions in order not to under-estimate the traffic impacts for the community.

 

In response to questions from Councillor Leadman about the designation of Sherwood Drive as a collector road, Mr. Jack explained that the designation of a street had less to do with the uses along it than with its connectivity and function.  Although it has residential uses along it, Sherwood Drive is designated as a collector road because it is a through street whose function is collecting traffic from local streets and distributing it to arterial roads.  He noted that as part of the previous transportation study traffic calming measures were recommended to make the road safer for pedestrians and cyclists, and measures were put in at Parkdale Avenue to eliminate some of the cross traffic to Holland Avenue.  He suggested those measures had be put in to address City and community concerns with respect to safety and traffic flow.

 

Councillor Leadman suggested that the level of intensification in the area would generate much more traffic.  She noted that traffic studies for individual developments never indicated there would be a problem, yet traffic was becoming a major problem for the community overall.  On the issue of modal split she suggested that, although the aim was to move people to other forms of transportation, the reality was that in this particular corridor there were no amenities to walk or cycle to, leaving residents reliant on their vehicles.  She acknowledged the efforts of the developer to address some community concerns, but emphasized that the impact on Sherwood Drive.

 

Councillor Doucet inquired if Mr. Jack, in his extensive experience doing traffic studies, had ever come forward to Committee and Council to say a development was too large.   Mr. Jack estimated that he had completed between 500 and 1000 traffic studies.  He confirmed that many developments have transportation and site operation problems at the beginning of the process; however, those issues rarely make it to Committee and Council because the transportation consultants’ job is to work with the applicant and fix those problems before it reaches that stage.  He noted that all developments have a traffic impact, and emphasized his job was to quantify that impact in a transparent and believable way, advise whether there would be capacity problems, and what modifications would be required to address those.

 

Councillor Doucet noted that he frequently heard from communities that developments were too big.  He noted that people buy their homes with an understanding of what would be permitted by the zoning, and that they wished the City would respect the zoning that is in place.  He could not recall any traffic planner in a public forum who would support what the community wanted.  On the issue of this development, he maintained that it was too big and should be limited to six stories.

 

Having concluded all public delegations, the Chair turned the recommendations over to Committee for discussion and debate.

 

Councillor Leadman expressed the concerns of her community with respect to intensification and how it is applied.  She suggested the City needed to start treating communities in a broader context, interpreting what is meant by intensification, transitioning, traffic impacts or infill and identifying what was appropriate. Specifically, she recommended that more caution needed to be taken with target areas such as this one. She noted that there was a CDP underway for this area whose purpose was to look at intensification along the corridor, and expressed the community’s frustration with applications coming forward in the absence of a broader policy and guidelines for the area.  She noted that residents base their decisions about where to live on the Zoning and Secondary Plans in place, and suggested the need for some stability so that people can have some trust in what would be coming forward for their community.

 

Councillor Doucet expressed his frustration with development that did not respect the Zoning in place.  He referenced a project by the same developer in his own ward, noting that although it represented significant intensification it was not opposed by the community because it respected the existing Zoning and the quality of life of the existing neighbourhood.  In contrast, he suggested this development in this area was an “asphalt nightmare” with no trees and no parking.  He questioned why, although the area is supposed to be transit-friendly, a development had been approved nearby with 800 parking spaces.  He suggested this represented the kind of intensification that was profitable for the developer, but was not rendering the City more sustainable or profitable.  He suggested that, as stewards for the City, Council should be respecting its own laws and thinking about how to create environments that are not asphalt jungles, but rather human-friendly environments.

 

Councillor Bellemare expressed his support for the proposal.  He noted there were buildings to the north and south of the site similar in size to that which was proposed.  In addition, he noted the site’s proximity to the O-Train.  He suggested the development represented exactly the type of intensification the City needed to embrace.  Considering the high quality of the proposal, he recommended Committee approve the staff recommendations.

 

Committee then voted on and approved the report recommendations, as presented:

 

That the Planning and Environment Committee recommend that Council:

 

1.                  Approve and adopt an amendment to the Official Plan Volume 2A: Secondary Plans for the Preston-Champagne Secondary Plan to re-designate 100 Champagne Avenue South from “Residential Low Profile” to “Residential High Profile”, as detailed in Document 2; and

 

2.                  Approve an amendment to Zoning By-law 2008-250 to change the zoning of 100 Champagne Avenue South from R4M (Residential Fourth Density Subzone M) to R5P Sxxx (Residential Fifth Density Subzone P, Schedule xxx) zone as detailed in Document 3, and shown in Document 4.

 

CARRIED

 

 

YEAS (7): M. Bellemare; P. Feltmate D. Holmes, P. Hume, G. Hunter, B. Monette, S. Qadri

NAYS (1): C. Doucet