Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutPSD-091-17Clarftwn Planning Services Report If this information is required in an alternate accessible format, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator at 905-623-3379 ext. 2131. Report To: Planning and Development Committee Date of Meeting: December 4, 2017 Report Number: PSD -091-17 Resolution: #PD -227-17 & PD -228-17 File Number: PLN 23.3.4 By-law Number: Report Subject: Metrolinx Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area Recommendations: It is respectfully recommended that the Planning and Development Committee recommend to council the following: 1. That Report PSD -091-17 be received; 2. That Council endorse Report PSD -091-17 as the Municipality's comments on the Metrolinx Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan; and 3. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Board of Directors for GO Transit, the Board of Directors for Metrolinx, the Regional Municipality of Durham, and all constituent municipalities in the Region of Durham. Municipality of Clarington Report PSD -091-17 Report Overview Page 2 Metrolinx has released a Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan that will replace the previous plan titled "The Big Move". As part of the public consultation process, Metrolinx has asked agencies, municipalities and the public for input. This report highlights the main components of the Draft Transportation Plan and the proposed municipal comments for Council's endorsement. 1. Purpose The purpose of this report is to provide Council with an update and request Council to endorse the comments contained in this report on the Metrolinx Draft 2041 Transportation Plan for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) by Metrolinx. 2. History of Metrolinx's Transportation Plan 2.1 The first Transportation Plan for the GTHA (boundary of the GTHA shown in Attachment 1) by Metrolinx was released in 2008. The Plan was titled "The Big Move", which set the stage for today's investment in rapid transit systems, including the GO Transit Rail extension from Oshawa to Bowmanville. 2.2 The Big Move requires Metrolinx to review their Transportation Plan every ten years. As a first step towards releasing a new plan, in August of 2016, Metrolinx released a paper entitled "Discussion Paper for the Next Regional Transportation Plan, Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area" for municipal comments/feedback. On October 5, 2016, the Region of Durham provided their response to the discussion paper to Regional Council. On October 17, 2016 the General Government Committee received the Region's comments to the discussion paper. 2.3 Since the release of the paper, Metrolinx has released a Residents' Reference Panel document in March 2017, held a Transit Network Workshop and released the Draft 2041 RTP for the GTHA in September 2017. The Region of Durham has provided the Municipality with their comments on the Draft 2041 Transportation Plan. Their report was considered at the November 30th meeting of Durham Transit Executive Committee and it will be going to the Committee of the Whole on the December 6t" to be ratified by Council on December 13th. 3. Summary of Metrolinx Draft 2041 Transportation Plan 3.1 The Metrolinx Draft 2041 Transportation Plan is a blueprint for what needs to be done to build an integrated, regional, multi -modal transportation system, known as the Frequent Rapid Transit Network (FRTN) (see Figure 1). The FRTN is made up of 6 key components: Municipality of Clarington Report PSD -091-17 Page 3 1) Local Transit System: The Durham Region Transit will need to support and work with the other elements of the transportation network. 2) Priority Bus: The priority bus is a quick and reliable bus service that uses queue jump lanes, HOV lanes and priority signal at intersections. 3) Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) & Light Rail Transit (LRT): They operate in their own exclusive right-of-way, which is fully separated from traffic, with signal priority measures in place and longer spacing between stops. 4) Subway & Transitway: The bus or rail transit operates separate from other traffic, at a high speed. 5) Frequent Regional Express Bus: This bus is intended to serve core areas which are not served by 15 -minute GO Regional Express Rail (RER). The Express Bus operates 15 -minute services all day and are typically on highways, in HOV lanes. 6) GO Regional Express Rail (RER): The RER will include electrification infrastructure and service improvements, to provide service running every 15 minutes in both directions. } FRTN Local transit supports the FRTN GO15-minute al"agxrvire Frequent Regional Expreso- Bua Subway & TmFoa tway LWr& 8RT P MHY Bin Lor. a I Trona it Service Figure 1 - Components of the Frequent Rapid Transit Network To achieve the objectives of the Metrolinx Draft 2041 Transportation Plan, Metrolinx has proposed five strategies which are listed below. Municipality of Clarington Resort PSD -091-17 Paae 4 3.2 Strategy 1: Complete the Delivery of Current Transit Projects There are currently 16 projects Metrolinx has committed to in the previous Transportation Plan which have yet to be completed. One of the projects is the Bowmanville GO Train extension project, shown on Attachment 2(b). The GO rail extension is projected to be completed and functioning by 2024. There is also the Courtice interim GO Bus express station (from Courtice to Oshawa GO) at the future Courtice GO rail station, in delivery and to be completed by fall 2018. For Durham Region as a whole, the 15 -minute Go Rail RER service from Union Station to Oshawa is to be completed by 2024. 3.3 Strategy 2: Connect more of the GTHA with Frequent Rapid Transit The Transportation Plan discusses the importance of providing active transportation options and creating a complete transit network. Strategy 2 focuses on extending and connecting the Frequent Rapid Transit Network (FRTN) by 2041. The network would connect existing and planned subway, Regional Express Rail, Light Rail Transit, Bus Rapid Transit and priority bus services to allow seamless, efficient travel across the GTHA. For Durham Region, the following projects are in development or proposed by 2041: x BRT from Scarborough Centre to Oshawa GO; x 15 -minute RER GO Rail extension from Thornton Road to Downtown Oshawa; x All Day GO Rail service from Downtown Oshawa to Bowmanville; x BRT/LRT from Downtown Oshawa to Highway 407; x Steeles/Taunton Priority Bus from Milliken GO to Townline Road; x Whites Road Priority Bus from Highway 407 to Pickering GO; x Brock Road Priority Bus from Bayly Street to Highway 7; x Westney Priority Bus from Bayly Street to Highway 2; x Bayly Priority Bus from Pickering GO to Whitby GO; x Brock Street/Baldwin Priority Bus from Whitby GO to Brawley Road; and x Highway 2 Priority Bus from Downtown Oshawa to Bowmanville GO Rail station. In addition to the projects, service level improvements are identified. The Draft Transportation Plan provides for 15 minute Express Bus Service along Highway 2 to Highway 35/115 and along Highway 401 and 35/115 from Oshawa GO Rail to Peterborough. Municipality of Clarington Resort PSD -091-17 3.4 Strategy 3: Optimize the Transportation System Paae 5 The third strategy of the Transportation Plan is to improve the transit system, through eleven (11) priority actions. This includes making the best use of existing and future transportation assets by integrating fares and services, expanding the first and last mile of the traveller's journey, improving the traveller's experience, providing universal access, using urban design excellence in planning, improving safety, and using roads and highways wisely. 3.5 Strategy 4: Integrate Land Use and Transportation The fourth strategy addresses the importance of making land use decisions with transportation in mind. There is great opportunity to create more complete communities that are supportive of transit, walking and cycling. To achieve this, Metrolinx has proposed better integration of land use and transportation planning though a Provincial Review of legislative and regulatory linkages between provincial and municipal planning framework, and by making provincial investments in transit projects. Metrolinx has also proposed to focus development in Mobility Hubs and Major Transit Station Areas, design to encourage active transportation, and develop a regional cycling network (see Attachment 4(b)). Clarington is updating policies to better integrating land use and transportation, through the Official Plan Amendment and the current update to the Bowmanville West Town Centre (BWTC) Secondary Plan. As part of the update to the Secondary Plan, the Municipality has hired a consulting firm to complete a Transportation Hub Study on the future Courtice and Bowmanville Mobility Hubs. This study will assist the Municipality in creating a Mobility Hub which integrates land uses with the public transit and active transit system. 3.6 Strategy 5: Prepare for an Uncertain Future The Transportation Plan states that Metrolinx is prepared for the uncertainties they might face in the future in regards to regional transit by: preparing for technological advancements, building resilience to climate change, reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, and using data and innovation to improve ridership. Metrolinx is currently investigating the impact of autonomous vehicles (AV) on the transportation system. At this point in time, AV are not being incorporated into GO Station designs, however additional parking may be required in the future. Metrolinx is also investigating technological advancements to reduce the levels of Green House Gas (GHG) emissions released by public transportation, which will built the GTHA's resilience to climate change. One of the advancements include the electrification of a portion of the Lakeshore East GO Rail system, not including the Bowmanville GO Rail Extension. Metrolinx is also exploring the use of hydrogen power for the GO Rail network (a Provincial initiative). Municipality of Clarington Report PSD -091-17 Page 6 As the public transportation system continues to improve, private sector firms are increasingly providing innovative services which enhance the transit system and increases the transit ridership. Metrolinx's Transportation Plan attempts to predict and prepare the public transit system for the undetermined future. 3.7 Summary of Clarington GO Transit Projects Projects In Delivery by 2024 Bowmanville GO Extension (Project 21) x Peak Hour service from Oshawa to Bowmanville GO Station. Courtice Interim GO Bus Express Station x Courtice Road to Oshawa GO. Draft Projects by 2041 Lakeshore East GO Train service upgrade (Project 100) x Improvement from Peak to All Day GO Train service to Bowmanville GO. Highway 2 Priority Bus, (Project 99) x Construction of queue jump lens, HOV lanes and signal priority measures to improve service from the end of the Bus Rapid Transit in Oshawa to Bowmanville GO Station. Draft Future Service Level Projects Regional Express Bus x 15 minute GO Bus Service along Highway 2 from Simcoe Street, Oshawa to Highway 35/115 Park and Ride. x 15 minute GO Bus Service along Highway 401 from Oshawa GO to Downtown Peterborough. 4. Comments 4.1 Municipal staff support the comments submitted by the Region of Durham and in particular highlight the following: x The top priority for the Region is the completion of the Bowmanville GO Rail extension by 2024 with electrified service. x Clarification of roles, responsibilities and geographic jurisdiction for planning and implementation. Municipality of Clarington Report PSD -091-17 Page 7 x More details on the time frames, phasing, scope and ownership of transit projects. x That the rethinking of parking at GO Rail stations to separate parking costs from rail service costs should be done in a manner to increase station access active transportation and local transit users. x Revisit the Highway 407 Transitway including Highways 407, 412 and 418 for the services proposed and development a full service strategy. This would recognize that the Lakeshore East service is not attractive for residents in the northern portions of urban areas and the development of new or existing employment areas in Durham, Markham and Vaughan. x Sustained provincial funding to municipalities for commuter cycling networks. x Establishing an overall strategy and target for reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions in the transportation sector. 4.2 The electrification project of the Lakeshore East GO Rail Line to Bowmanville should be completed at the earliest possible date to allow for seamless integration with the rest of the GO Rail Lakeshore line. Mixing diesel and electric trains will lead to service difficulties. Electrification should also be pursued to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and noise along a busy rail corridor which is of particular concern adjacent to new residential dwellings in the Bowmanville Transit Hub. 4.3 Clarington supports the proposal to increase GO bus services levels by providing Frequent Regional Express Service (15 minute service) along Highway 2 to Highway 35/115 Park and Ride but this this level of service should be extended into the Newcastle downtown. 4.4 Clarington supports the introduction of Priority Bus Service from Oshawa to the Bowmanville GO Rail Station (Project 99) to provide reliable service using queue jump lanes, HOV lanes and priority signal at intersections recognizing that this will pave the way for future Bus Rapid Transit through Courtice. 4.5 Clarington is working hard to integrate land use and transportation planning. Through the updated Clarington Official Plan, designated Urban Centres are connected with Regional and Local Corridors providing for transit -supportive densities. Further through consideration of site-specific development applications, Clarington is seeking to implement its plan and create the right conditions to create the business case for improvements of transit infrastructure and transit service levels. 4.6 Metrolinx should clearly state the role each level of government plays in the Draft Transportation Plan. Local governments must be clearly aware of their role, so that Metrolinx's Transportation Plan is considered in current development applications, especially for applications along the proposed transit system routes. Municipality of Clarington Report PSD -091-17 Page 8 4.7 If the Province is pushing for a FRTN, grants would be required to assist Municipalities with: updates to plans, road network improvements, investment in public transit improvements and active transportation. 4.8 In recent year, Metrolinx staff have been very helpful and cooperative to municipal staff and municipal projects and priorities. Through development of the GO Rail system Site Plan process, Metrolinx should continue to work cooperatively with municipalities to incorporate active transportation connections that will help reduce automotive dependent trips, and continue to promote active transit amenities at stations. 4.9 Clarington supports the use of improved technology not only for the GO transit network but the integration of technologies from local transit operators, taxis, Uber and similar platforms, bike share programs and automated vehicle car share platforms and micro - transit operators so that trip planning is made easier and can include the first and last mile of any trip. 4.10 Clarington has many rural communities widely spread geographically. These rural communities are dependent on vehicles as the only mode of transportation. It is understood that rural areas are not conducive for feasible, prudent transit service. Metrolinx should provide direction on how to better connect rural settlements to urban centres with alternative services such as micro -transit and autonomous vehicles. 5. Conclusion It is respectfully recommended that the Council endorse Report PSD -91-17 as the Municipality's comments on the Metrolinx 2041 Draft Transportation Plan. 6. Strategic Plan Application Not applicable. Municipality of Clarington Resort PSD -091-17 Submitted by: David Crome, MCIP, RPP, Director of Planning Services Paae 9 Reviewed by: for Andrew C. Allison, B. Comm, LL.B CAO Staff Contact: Tanjot Bal, Planner, 905-623-3379 x2422 or tbal@clarington.net Carlos Salazar, Manager, 905-623-3379 x2409 or csalazar@clarington.net Attachments Attachment 1 — Map of the GTHA Attachment 2 - Current and Future GO Transit System for the Region of Durham Attachment 3 - Proposed HOV and Regional Express Bus Network (2041) Attachment 4 - Proposed Regional Goods Movement Network Attachment 5 — Region of Durham Comments on Metrolinx Draft Transportation Plan Municipality of Clarington Map of the GTHA Attachment 1 to Report PSD -091-17 Municipality of Clarington Current and Future GO Transit System for the Region of Durham 2. a) Proposed Frequent Rapid Transit Network to be Completed by 2041 Attachment 2 to Report PSD -091-17 2. b) Existing and In Delivery Projects Projected to be Completed by 2025 Municipality of Clarington Proposed HOV and Regional Express Bus Network (2041) Proposed Regional Express Bus Proposed Frequent Regional Express Bus Existing Express Toll Highway Future Express Toll Highway Proposed Routes for further H OV study DURHAM Attachment 3 to Report PSD -091-17 PETERBOROU NORTHUMBERLANE- Municipality of Clarington Proposed Regional Goods Movement Network 4 aj Proposed Regional Goods Movement Network Wior Port GGH Built Boundary Greenbelt Designation Primary Freight Ouster Secondary Freight Ouster Core Regional Route - Future Care Regional Route Freight Cluster Connector Regional Can nectar Future Regional Connector 400 -series Highway DURHAM Existing or Future Highway Raihway Network �._ + ------ Regional Cycling Roull € primary Roim Secondary Rout@ '+ draft CydzM Route + Waterfront Trail Fidmng �lia.8 Greenheft Route 2D41 Persons + Jabs 1 Hectare •yn tdwrh, Very High (CN4c 80) 5mvffville High {30-80) _ 4 b) Proposed 2041 Regional Cycling Network ouRHal� er-f Attachment 4 to Report PSD -091-17 Greenbelt Designetion GGH Built Boundary Existing or Frlhlre Highway AGO Rail Service 0 Urban Growth Centre • Existing or Future GO Station PmMndsl Highrv®yCrossing ------------------ s . r 111--•----� The Regional Municipality of Durham 605 ROSSLAND ROAD EAST PO BOX 623 WHITBY, ON L1N 6A3 CANADA 905-668-7711 1-800-372-1102 Fax: 905-668-1567 durham.ca Garry H. Cubitt B.Sc., M.S.W., (Hon) LL.D Chief Administrative Officer "Service Excellence for our Communities" Attachment 5 to Report PSD -091-17 Submitted by email to: theplan metrolinx.com November 15, 2017 Ms. Leslie Woo Chief Planning Officer, Planning and Policy Metrolinx 97 Front Street West Toronto, ON M5J 1 E6 Dear Ms. Woo: Re: Durham Rection Comments on Metrolinx Draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan (EBR Registry Number 013-1550) For fifty years, GO Transit has been an integral part of the transportation system in Durham Region and a valued partner to Durham Region Transit since its inception in 2006. We therefore appreciate the opportunity to comment on the plans for the future. As an update to the Big Move, the draft 2041 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) aligns with the Province's Growth Plan for the Golden Horseshoe. The RTP identifies a number of priority initiatives within Durham Region to address future needs. Through its strategies and actions, the RTP also sets the stage for future implementation and funding needs. We appreciate the consultation from Metrolinx staff throughout the process. However, our review has revealed that there are matters of particular concern to Durham Region which should be part of the RTP in order that our shared objective of delivering improved connectivity can be successfully implemented. Attached is a submission from staff of the Region of Durham that provides more detailed commentary on the RTP. Due to the constrained timeframe of the consultation, we have not yet presented these comments to our Council for their consideration. If this information is required in an accessible format, please contact the Accessibility Co-ordinator at 1-800-372-1102 ext. 2009. Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Therefore, this submission reflects Regional staff opinion and does not constitute a position of Durham Regional Council. Unfortunately, Regional Council's discussion of the draft 2041 RTP will not occur until after your deadline. We will forward these comments to Durham Region Transit Executive Committee on November 30 and Regional Committee of the Whole on December 6 for their review and discussion. Their recommendations will go to Regional Council for ratification on December 13, 2017. After the meeting on December 6, Regional staff will informally notify you if Committee made any substantive changes to the staff recommendations provided in the attached submission. To build the necessary municipal commitment to this RTP as a statement of shared goals and actions, it would have been preferable to ensure that municipal councils had sufficient time to comment. We therefore request that the comment period be extended by 30 days and that the Metrolinx Board hold a special meeting in January to approve the plan. This extra time would allow Metrolinx staff to integrate Council - endorsed input into the RTP. In the meantime, our attached submission is structured in two parts: x general comments related to themes and directions in the draft RTP and gaps that need to be addressed, and x specific section -by -section comments. We hope you find this helpful as you work toward a final draft. If you have any questions or need additional information please contact Christine Drimmie at 905-668-7711, ext.2029, or by email to christine.drimmie(adurham.ca. Sincerely, C71" & Garry H. Cubitt, M.S.W. Chief Administrative Officer cc: The Honourable Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation Phil Verster, President and CEO, Metrolinx 2 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Rob Ford, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Ajax Thom Gettinby, Chief Administrative Officer, Township of Brock Andrew Allison, Chief Administrative Officer, Municipality of Clarington Jag Sharma, City Manager, City of Oshawa Tony Prevedel, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Pickering Paul Allore, Chief Administrative Officer, Township of Scugog Ingrid Svelnis, Chief Administrative Officer, Township of Uxbridge Matthew Gaskell, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Whitby 3 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Durham Region General Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Durham's Top Priorities From a Durham Region perspective, the RTP should include firm commitment to the following priority projects: 1. Completion of the Bowmanville GO Rail extension by 2024 with electrified service on the northern alignment. 2. Completion of the Durham -Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit Corridor by 2023. 3. Design and completion of the Simcoe Street Bus Rapid Transit Corridor by 2031. 4. Development of GO Rail to Seaton by 2031 in keeping with the Durham Transportation Master Plan. 5. Development of a Regional Transit Service strategy and its implementation along the 407 East Corridor in coordination with Durham Region Transit. We were pleased to see the Bowmanville extension in the "Projects for Completion" list. However, recognizing the growth that is underway and rapid transit corridors required to provide sustainable mobility, the RTP also must incorporate these Durham priorities. Legacy of the Big Move The "accomplishments" listed in Figure 4 (e.g. 4200 bike racks installed, 300 members joined Smart Commute, bus bypass lanes introduced) are mainly outputs or activity counts. However, to evaluate the impact of the Big Move, the question to be answered is not just "what did we do?", but "what changed as a result of these interventions?" Was congestion reduced? Did commute times improve? We recommend that the impacts of the Big Move (and subsequent RTPs) in meeting strategic transportation system objectives be assessed. The effectiveness of Metrolinx's process of advancing and delivering projects also should be evaluated. Did the process produce strong partnerships, evidence - based decisions, smooth implementation and a balance of service improvements across the GTHA? Did we intervene in a timely manner to leverage opportunities and to shape transportation behaviours before it was too late? Did we follow the plan? Why or why not? Electrified 15 -minute rail service on all GO -owned lines and a one-stop Scarborough subway were not stated as priorities in the first 15 years of the Big Move. Did the strategy of constructing huge parking structures that compete with transit service providers at GO Stations help achieve the desired land use or transportation outcomes? Lessons learned from the first decade of GTHA-wide transit planning and implementation should inform the strategies in the next plan with respect to C! Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP improved governance, transparency, accountability, evidence -based decision- making, fairness and funding. Draft 2041 RTP Vision and Goals The vision statement speaks only about the "urban" region despite the fact the GTHA includes a large portion of the Greenbelt. The vision (p. 39) should specifically include goods movement and speak to a system that is not only convenient, connected and reliable but also safe, affordable, accessible and low carbon. Of the three goals, only the second one (complete travel experience) relates directly to the transportation system and is measurable. The first goal (strong connections) and third (sustainable communities) are not necessarily dependent on transportation (i.e. people can be connected by phone or the web). Transportation connects physical locations and provides physical access for people and goods. The focus of goal three should be narrowed to "sustainable mobility" and described as "creating an innovative, affordable, low carbon mobility system that supports land use intensification, exploits new technology and adapts to climate change". A fourth goal should be added called "building collaboration, consensus and commitment to the plan". The Residents Reference Panel report recommends a similar goal (p. 43) to sort out questions of appropriate planning jurisdictions, governance, funding, partnerships and decision-making. The current consultation by the Province on a Transportation Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe adds to the uncertainty on these issues. It has long been the Region's position that municipal elected representation should be restored to the Metrolinx Board. This would be an important step to building collaboration and commitment. Data and Growth The current reliance on the Transportation Tomorrow Survey (TTS) to understand and plan transportation in the GTHA creates an outlook from five years past. This process should be modernized considering the availability of new data sources and artificial intelligence models. Although the RTP refers to significant growth happening in Durham Region, much of this is not reflected in the proposed infrastructure. By 2041, the Growth Plan predicts Durham's population will reach about 1.2 million, similar to York's population today. York Region currently has three GO Rail lines and two north/south freeways (not tolled) connecting the 401 to the 407. By comparison, the rail network shown for Durham by 2041 seems quite underdeveloped and both its north/south freeways are/will be tolled. 5 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Durham staff agrees that a modernized data strategy is essential to support land use planning, transportation planning and economic development. The Province should lead and fund an initiative to modernize data collection and interpretation for effective use by all the partners to support future planning. Reaional Traveller Personas and Residents Reference Panel These two new tools are welcome additions to the planning process for passenger travel. However, business mobility needs and goods movement are barely reflected in the draft RTP. We recommend that Metrolinx engage the business community in a Regional Business Panel to capture the perspectives of employers, mobile businesses, business travellers and the goods movement sector in the analysis. Polycentric Region In several places, the draft RTP states that the GTHA is already polycentric. Numerous significant urban centres exist outside of Toronto and yet the highest priority project to be completed and continued (RER) has a mono -centric focus on service to Union Station. At the same time the RTP recognizes that some of the highest growth areas are outside of Toronto. Provincial investment in rapid transit to support and connect all Urban Growth Centres (UGCs) is needed so that they can attract greater concentrations of population and employment in keeping with Growth Plan targets. As noted in the RTP, the presence of frequent rapid transit spurs denser development. The draft RTP underestimates the transportation challenges that will develop with the Region of Durham over the next 10 to 15 years. We recommend that: x the RTP incorporate Durham's Rapid Transit priorities (as outlined earlier), and x the Province commit to funding and implementation of those priorities in a similar fashion to the projects being implemented in other GTHA communities and UGCs (e.g. Hamilton, Mississauga). Health and Social Impacts of the Draft RTP Poverty, aging population and housing affordability are raised as background issues and concerns in the RTP. Income disparity is a long standing concern for Durham. To focus efforts on the health and well-being of travellers in the planning and design of transportation systems, consider adding a new Priority Action specific to health under one of the five strategies (e.g. Integrate Land Use and Transportation).The actions would: A Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP x Raise awareness of the health benefits of choosing active forms of travel (walking, cycling) to get to and from destinations. x Prioritize the development of active transportation routes to and from transit stations. x Make safety and accessibility a priority. x Focus on design factors that impact health such as shade structures at transit stations, seating along walkways, adequate lighting, and exposure to greenery and open space. x Focus on health equity and the removal of physical and financial barriers for riders accessing transportation systems. To better meet the needs of the future GTHA population, consider identifying age - friendly community design aspects and AODA' principles in the RTP as important features when building transportation systems. To support equity and mobility for persons with disabilities, we recommend that the Province should encourage service providers to participate in a central platform for booking inter -regional specialized transit trips in the GTHA, similar to the system used during the Parapan Am Games. To echo the findings of the Residents Reference Panel, the Province should provide support to low income households to purchase transit fares supporting employment, education, health and social well-being. Rnlac and RAcnnncihilitiac The draft RTP creates confusion about who will plan and implement what and where and when and who will finance and operate the systems proposed. The release of the Ontario Ministry of Transportation plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) shortly after the draft RTP adds to the confusion. The relationship between the RTP and the GGH-wide plan needs to be clarified. In addition, the RTP implies that Metrolinx would play a role in setting standards for active transportation routes to GO Stations, and in land use planning around station areas, both of which are areas of municipal planning authority. The RTP should acknowledge and respect the municipal role and authority in the delivery of transportation infrastructure and services in the GTHA. Roles, responsibilities and geographic jurisdiction for planning and implementation of projects, from the provincial level right down to the area municipal level, need to be clarified. AODA = Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. rA Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP UP Planned Transit Network/Routes Listed for Durham - The Priority Bus Network (PBN), Frequent Rapid Transit Network (FRTN) and frequent Regional Express Bus services will help link the trip generators in the 905 communities to each other. We are pleased to see this service -based approach to building ridership in key corridors. It is broadly consistent with the Higher Order Transit Network identified in Durham's 2031 draft transportation master plan released in June 2017. However, clarification is required with respect to the timeframes for development of these networks and who will own and operate them. The RTP outlines the need for 24-hour transit services to support those travelling for shift work. The Region agrees that such a service is desirable but given the competing demands in Durham to service growth, the Region would require additional operating funding to accelerate its implementation. As presented, the network plan focuses on what infrastructure and services to build but does not provide insight into their implementation. Durham Region requests more detail on time frames, phasing, scope, location, ownership and operation of the transit projects and programs listed so that we can understand how our communities will be supported. Please see Appendix A: Durham Region Detailed Comments on Draft 2041 RTP for discrepancies on maps and routes and advice on how to revise the FRTN. What is missing from the proposed transit network in Durham? The draft RTP was informed by Durham's draft 2031 Transportation Master Plan as released in June 2017. However, the RTP horizon is 2041 so there is a 10 -year gap. During this decade, several new communities in Durham Region (Seaton, West Whitby, Brooklin, Kedron, and Columbus) will be built adding 165,000 people and 40,000 jobs by 2041. This growth needs to be supported with frequent transit services in order to achieve an improved transit mode split. Seaton The development of the Seaton community is a provincially -driven initiative and should reflect Ontario's imperatives around sustainability and climate change. However, other than the FRTN along the margins of Seaton, no specific transit services near/to Seaton are planned until after 2041. For transit to be seen as a viable alternative to the car by these new residents, the RTP must plan for frequent service to be established in Seaton as soon as possible since the development is underway. This new community should be the place where new technologies and service models are tested. With the planned development at Seaton, along the 407 corridor and in northwest Whitby and Oshawa, the Seaton rail line may generate as much ridership as other corridors being considered for extension. Track condition and ownership of existing rail Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP lines are equally issues for many of GO's other rail developments. Durham Region's Master Plan envisions the rail service being in place by 2031. The population of Seaton will exceed places such as Grimsby, Innisfil or Acton which have planned and existing GO Stations. We therefore recommend that the timing of the Seaton GO Rail service be advanced to the first decade of this RTP. Highway 407 and 407 Transitway Highway 407 is the one transportation asset in the GTHA with significant untapped potential and capacity. The RTP should identify how it could play a larger role in people and goods movement, in relieving congestion on other routes, and in connecting 905 communities However, the impacts of the new 407 infrastructure and the development and expansion of new communities in Seaton, West Whitby, Brooklin, Columbus and Kedron on transit demand are underestimated. The transit needs related to the anticipated new population (165,000) and jobs (40,000) resulting from development in the 407, 412 and 418 corridors are not supported by the draft RTP. Preliminary 2016 TTS data indicate that a significant percentage of residents in places like Brooklin commute to Toronto now. GO Lakeshore East RER will not be an attractive alternative for these communities given the significant north -south travel time. Regional Planning staff has provided Metrolinx with detailed information on developments, locations, phasing and anticipated population and jobs stemming from the significant growth in these corridors. Development of the 407 transitway also will support planned development along the corridor in the communities of Seaton, West Whitby, Brooklin, Columbus and Kedron, at the provincial employment lands or at a potential airport. Transitway stations and carpool lots should be developed like rail stations: surrounded by mixed use development, accessible at no cost to local transit and accessible by active transportation. We recommend that: x the assumptions and modelling for the 407/412/418 corridors be revisited, x services proposed along these corridors be clarified, and x a full service strategy be developed for these corridors with the support of Durham Region Transit. Pickering Airpon Strategy 2.3 proposes improving airport access to Toronto Pearson and Hamilton Munro airports to meet growing demand. Plans for services to a future Pickering Airport are not mentioned even though it is very likely to be a factor prior to 2041. 9 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP In June 2013, the Government of Canada announced their approach to developing the federally -owned Pickering Lands which included setting aside land for a potential future airport and the creation of Rouge National Urban Park. To update the current airport site designation and to replace the current Pickering Airport Site Zoning Regulations, Transport Canada is now engaged in the regulatory process to: x Declare a smaller portion of the Pickering Lands an airport site, as defined in the Aeronautics Act, subsection 5.4(1); and x Propose Pickering Airport Site Zoning Regulations, under the Aeronautics Act, subsection 5.4(2). These regulations will protect the new, smaller Pickering Airport site for future aviation needs, by ensuring land use and development adjacent to and in the vicinity of the airport site does not interfere with safe aircraft operations. Recent studies and the presentation by the GTAA to Durham Regional Council on November 8, 2017 indicate that Pearson Airport will reach capacity by the mid -2030s. As such, an alternative should be identified and implemented prior to this date. In 2016, Dr. Gary Polonsky completed a consultation and market sounding on the need for the Pickering Airport for Transport Canada. Subsequently, Transport Canada engaged KPMG to assess the emerging demand for airport services in Southern Ontario. This study is to be completed in 2018.The 2004 Pickering Airport Draft Plan Report (GTAA), included extensive and detailed environmental, traffic and economic studies which could form the basis of an environmental assessment. We recommend that: x like the Big Move, the draft 2041 RTP should also acknowledge the development of a potential future airport at Pickering, and x pending a decision by the federal government to proceed with this airport, provision for groundside transportation planning to serve the Pickering Airport by the mid -2030's be included in the 2041 RTP. RTP Cycling Network With respect to a GTHA wide commuter cycling network, the role of Metrolinx in planning, designing and funding a cycling network needs to be clarified. The RTP notes that "achieving it will require the Province, municipalities and transit operators to establish common standards for design and funding". As such, the Draft 2041 RTP should make recommendations for sustained provincial funding to assist municipalities in creating commuter cycling networks. Durham supports the notion that the cycling network should include direct routes that cross physical barriers to active transportation in our communities such as rail lines and 400 series highways. We recommend that the owners of these corridors who 10 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP benefit from these rights of way help fund the crossings as part of their rehabilitation, replacement or expansion undertakings. Similarly, Durham Region supports encouraging school children cycling (and walking) to school but again, financial support will be needed to ensure safe routes to school and other child/youth destinations. Additional detailed comments are provided in Appendix A with respect to aligning the proposed RTP cycling network with the network depicted in Durham's 2031 TMP. Fare and Service Integration Fare integration cannot succeed without service integration. However, to date, the discussion with the partner service providers has been on fares. In addition, the fare integration proposal has not presented details and financial implications about how the proposals would affect customers within the Region of Durham. Vast geography and relatively lower population and employment density are a reality for transit service in Durham. As such, "fare by distance" models are unlikely to yield increased ridership or be acceptable to Durham residents. The more important issue to customers is service integration, meaning timely, easy connections across boundaries so that customers have a seamless experience. The RTP states (p. 34) that full use of new cross -boundary transit routes won't be realized unless we have integrated fares. While this may be a fare barrier for customers crossing the 416/905 line, Metrolinx is reminded that the 905 carriers have offered fare integration amongst themselves for a number of years. We recommend that the Province focus on working with local transit carriers to implement low-cost, quick -win solutions to improve fare and service integration. Examples could include the implementation of a co -fare for 416/905 travel, elimination of the co -fare between GO/905 services, and ensuring carriers have access to stations, terminals, and carpool lots at no cost. As noted earlier, integration of booking arrangements and seamless services for the users of the eight different specialized transit services is vital. The Province should encourage service providers to participate in a central platform for booking inter - Regional specialized trips in the GTHA. Optimize the Transit System Even if every strategy in the RTP was implemented, the anticipated change in many key indicators (e.g. transit mode share, commute times, greenhouse gas reductions) is minimal. This begs the question whether the RTP includes the right actions and projects. The projects planned in the 905 seem to have much more relative impact on the indicators than the major investments in Toronto. Some value engineering may be in order to determine the level of effort, cost and commitment that would be 11 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP involved in driving more substantial change. Such work could be the basis for seeking funding from the proceeds of cap and trade. Figure 23 illustrates that by 2031 parking at GO Stations will accommodate only 38 per cent of forecast GO passengers that will be generated by 15 minute electrified rail service. Sixty-two percent will need to access the station by other modes (up from 38 per cent today). In increased reliance on alternative modes of transportation rather than personal vehicles to access GO Stations is desirable in principle. However, the RTP does not indicate the percentage that each of the other modes (transit, walking, biking and taxi/ridesharing) is expected to contribute and how that will be achieved. What is the RTP's strategy for developing these other modes to the extent required to fill the gap? The RTP should indicate how Metrolinx will optimize investments to help Durham achieve these outcomes. While local transit is best positioned to fill the gap without adding to congestion at stations, serving GO is not their core mandate. Achieving the mode shift will require multiple strategies including improved transit integration, appropriate station design, co - fare arrangements and operational funding support. In many communities, crossing the 401, QEW or rail corridor is a significant barrier to uptake of active modes. The RTP should indicate how Metrolinx will assist local transit providers and municipalities to improve services and facilities to reach the 62 per cent target. Preparing for an Uncertain Future: Climate ChangE Transportation accounts for more than one third of Ontario GHG emissions. The RTP claims it will help meet Ontario's goal of 80% GHG reductions by 2050. However, the current level of GHG emissions from transportation in the GTHA is not mentioned and the RTP sets no target or timetable for reducing those emissions. The efforts described in the RTP seem focused on reducing emissions from GO's fleet of vehicles and their infrastructure projects. To support climate change adaptation in the GTHA, all new/redeveloped bridges and culverts planned by Metrolinx should be designed to minimize flooding due to restrictions in stream flow during extreme rainfall events. The Region agrees that Metrolinx services, infrastructure and projects should be evaluated for their potential to reduce GHG emissions, to adapt to climate change and to increase resilience. However, an RTP for the GTHA also needs to include policies that support GHG reductions from all forms of transportation in the region including personal and 12 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP commercial fleet vehicles. This may be achieved by working in partnership with provincial ministries, businesses, the auto sector and the energy sector. The RTP should include an overall strategy and target for reducing the GHG reductions from transportation in the GTHA in support of the provincial 2050 GHG reduction target. BmPrainq TPchnninniP "Municipalities in the GTHA have identified a need for a coordinated, regional approach to prepare for changes that new technologies and business models will bring". Strategy 5 in the draft RTP identifies various public interests and government roles in specific matters such as the safety, standards and codes, licencing. The Region recommends that the RTP should include a more proactive "big picture" policy discussion on how autonomous vehicles (AVs) can help advance the RTP goals. In particular, what kinds of legislation or policies will be needed to ensure that AVs do not add to the congestion already being experienced in the GTHA and that their usage produces positive social and land use outcomes. Proactive public policy decisions will be needed to shape the outcome we desire as a region. The RTP should include a process to develop a shared vision of how autonomous vehicles can best support sustainable mobility in the GTHA and start the necessary policy discussion with municipal partners. Regional Decision Making Governance Durham Region supports the strategies to address governance, decision making and funding issues. The discussion should begin immediately since so much of what Metrolinx plans to do hinge on these changes. As outlined in Appendix 4B of the draft RTP, governance and funding models from other jurisdictions generally include municipal elected representation on their governing bodies and all have revenue tools not available to GTHA transit authorities. Since 2009, it has been the position of Regional Council that municipal elected officials should be part of the Metrolinx Board. In February 2015, the GTHA Mayors and Chairs passed a resolution recommending formation of municipal advisory committee to the Metrolinx Board to help restore a municipal voice to Metrolinx decisions. The Region recommends re -instating municipal elected representation on the Metrolinx Board through the legislated review of the Metrolinx Act. Whether or not it is mandated in legislation, to deliver on the RTP vision, Metrolinx needs to fully engage and collaborate with all of its municipal partners in a respectful, geographically equitable relationship. 13 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP With respect to decision-making, the current Metrolinx project prioritization scheme focuses on optimizing existing assets. This focus makes it difficult for an immature local transit system like the 10 -year old DRT agency to compete for project funding. The draft RTP continues this "optimize existing" focus and pushes additional rapid transit expansions in Durham far into the future despite our forecast 90 per cent population growth. The Region recommends that Metrolinx revise their prioritization scheme to reduce or remove this bias. rundiriu As outlined in Appendix 4B of the draft RTP, transportation agencies in other jurisdictions all have revenue tools not available to GTHA transit authorities. The scale of capital investment required for the 2041 plan (not including the projects within the current $30 billion envelope) is $45 billion over 25 years plus $1 billion/year operating. The Region agrees that transit service needs both capital and operating contributions from the federal and provincial governments. The discussion of funding tools refers to principles outlined in the previous 2013 Investment Strategy and says municipalities need more revenue tools. The one new tool available to Durham is an improved transit DC funding formula but this does not address operating costs or the need to grow the system in existing developed areas. Additional municipal funding tools are needed. The Region supports the funding principles including sustainability, transparency and accountability. To ensure that Metrolinx and local transit agencies can use transit to help reduce GHG emissions, the Province should allocate additional money from the carbon cap and trade scheme to expanding and improving transit. Rethinking Parking The Region agrees with Priority Action 3.2 which is to "recover the cost of parking at GO stations to help shift trips to modes that do not require parking and allow more people to access new train services". To be accurate, GO recovers the cost of parking now in the GO rail fare. So, in essence, passengers who do not park and the Province of Ontario subsidize the cost of parking for those who do. Metrolinx should ensure that all policies and practices at its stations reflect the desire to increase station access by active transportation and transit. To ease the transition and prevent ridership loss, the initial "parking fee plus rail fare" would be set to approximately equal the previous "all in" price. Those who park would pay the additional fee for parking with their PRESTO card. Once these costs are separated, they can be administered separately in terms of future pricing. This links 14 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP directly to the GO Station Access Plans. As long as additional "free" parking continues to be added, there is little motivation for GO riders to use other modes. What is missing from the RTP? Building a transit culture The view of public transit, particularly in suburban communities, must shift from one of "burden on the taxpayer" to one of "strategic public resource, gridlock buster and vital support to equity and the economy". The quality and price of service available is critical in attracting riders. We also need to nurture the next generation of transit users (and active transportation users) by attracting youth and students. While much of this recognized in the RTP, the level of effort and resources invested in these programs should be enhanced. Changing our travel behaviour from auto -dominated to other modes is in large part a cultural shift. More discussion and work is needed on changing people's attitudes about transit, about paying for road use or parking, or our society's choice of workplace locations. The RTP should apply strategies that use behavioural economics and policy to drive culture change and shift (demand side) behaviour. This is a generational strategy that is appropriate to include in a 25 -year plan. Time frames, implementation plan, and investment strategy Other than a group of projects to be completed by 2025, the plan contains no time frames (other than by 2041) for any of the work proposed. Projects are not even notionally described as "short, medium or long-term". At the very end of the RTP, development of an implementation plan is mentioned, but in the meantime it is not clear who will build, own and operate the transit and active transportation assets. In the absence of the implementation plan, it is premature to comment about the kind of funding mechanisms that will be required. Without more detail about the phasing, timing, location and scale of proposed initiatives, there is no logical, trackable way to link funding to the RTP. The mandate and strategy to develop an implementation plan and funding strategy, including meaningful engagement of municipalities and other partners, should be included within the RTP. 15 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Appendix A: Durham Region Detailed Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments ii Vision Statement: the word "goods" should be added as one of Metrolinx's mandates is to consider goods movement as part of its long term planning in the GTHA. Also, the GTHA consists of large areas of greenbelt so the RTP should include rural as well as urban areas. There is also a need to incorporate "safe, accessible, affordable and low carbon". Proposed revised vision statement: The GTHA region will have a low carbon transportation system that supports complete communities by aligning the transportation network with land use. The system will provide travellers and goods with safe, accessible, affordable, convenient and reliable connections. 11, and Suggestion to add "GO Transit": Metrolinx also plans for and throughout operates GO Transit services in the GO Transit Service Area. Sometimes "GO service" is used in the document, while other times "GO Transit service" — suggestion would be to keep it consistent throughout the document. 11 Roles of Government in the RTP — the 8 th and 9th bullets should be combined as there is a formatting error. 12 Add "transportation" to: TMPs consider other policy areas including safety, goods movement and transportation demand management that would also benefit from a regional lens. 12 Roles of Government in the RTP — With respect to the 1St paragraph, 1St sentence under "Municipalities", not all municipalities in the GTHA have a Transportation Master Plan (TMP), at least not at the lower -tier level (e.g., Pickering, Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock). This statement should be clarified to either state "Most municipalities..." or "All upper - and single -tier municipalities..." (assuming that the latter is probably correct). How are municipal transportation plans intended to relate to the RTP and GGH Transportation Plan? 16-17 It would be informative if the funding commitments related to each of these projects were included in the chart so that one W9 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments can see how the $30 billion is being used. 21 Bullet point; "poverty is an increasing concern" — Poverty has always been a concern in our Region. Income inequality is at an all-time high and suggestion would be to re -phrase this point. 22 Key Influences on Transportation — The 1St paragraph states that "...and a few significant urban centres outside of Toronto are starting to emerge." This statement as it reads is not accurate, as there are many significant urban areas outside of Toronto. Rather, the sentence should be edited to read "...and significant growth in both established and new urban growth centres outside of Toronto is starting to emerge." 43-45 Residents' Reference Panel and Regional Traveller Personas — while these two "tools" are welcomed, Metrolinx should have engaged the business community more in the development of the RTP. Why was there not a "Regional Business Panel"? The voice of the business community, in particular the voice of the goods movement community should be included in the analysis and addressed in the Plan. 61 Strategy 2: Connect More of the Region with Frequent Rapid Transit — Under "Develop coordinated Regional Express Bus Routes", mention should be made to improve connections with other transit service providers at existing and planned commuter lots on the Provincial Highway network, particularly along the Highway 407, 412 and future 418 corridors. There are several planned 407 Transitway stations that should be considered as commuter lot locations and transit transfer points, identified through various EA studies, and the MTO Carpool Lots Opportunity Study (December 2007). 64 Priority Actions for Strategy 2 — Under Action 2.2, a bullet should be added or expanded upon to recommend an update of the MTO Carpool Lots Opportunity Study to better address the Frequent and regular Express Bus Network, in conjunction with MTO. These carpool lots should be developed and supported like rail station. They should be developed in a sustainable way, in partnership with local 17 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments transit carriers and accessible to them for no fee. 76 Mention of Ontario Ministry of Transportation Freight - Supportive Guidelines would be beneficial here as the Guidelines help plan for and support goods movement related activities and land uses. 76-77 Strategy 3: Optimize the Transportation System — Under "Optimize the highway and major road and rail network for goods movement", there should be a reference to ongoing work being conducted under the MTO GGH Transportation Plan and, in particular, reference to planned highway expansion projects such as the Highway 404 Extension as part of a future (2041) goods movement network. These future highways or extensions are missing from Map 8: Proposed Regional Goods Movement Network (for Roads and Highways), which is acceptable as long as this is recognized in the text and dealt with through the GGH Transportation study. What are the intended linkages between the RTP, the Provincial Transportation Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, and the High Speed Rail study? 78, Page A-47, Consider adding in a *NEW* Priority Action specific to health Page 90, Page under one of the 5 Strategies (suggestion under Strategy 3: A-50 Optimize the Transportation System or Strategy 4: Integrate Land Use and Transportation). Focus on the health of travellers in the planning and design of transportation systems. x Raise awareness of the health benefits of choosing active forms of travel (walking, cycling) to get to and from destinations. x Prioritize the development of active transportation routes to and from transit stations. x Make safety and accessibility a priority. x Focus on design factors that impact health such as shade structures at transit stations, seating along WV Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments walkways, adequate lighting, and exposure to greenery and open space. x Focus on health equity and the removal of barriers for riders accessing transportation systems. Map 5 & Map 6 Proposed 2041 Frequent Rapid Transit Network (5) and Detailed Proposed Frequent Rapid Transit Network (6) x We are pleased to see that the FRTN is fairly consistent with the Region's Higher -Order Transit Network identified in the Draft TMP Report (Maps 1A and 1 B), which was released in June 2017 and is expected to be finalized by year-end. However, the Draft TMP Report does not include Ritson Road as part of its High Frequency Network, but it is shown as part of the Frequent Rapid Transit Network (FRTN) by Metrolinx. Instead, consistent with the Draft TMP, the corridor should be moved to Harmony Road, between Highway 407 and Bloor Street. Unlike Ritson Road, Harmony Road has full interchanges at both Highway 401 and 407 (including a potential commuter lot and transit transfer point at the Highway 407/Harmony Road interchange), and is designated a Regional Corridor in the Regional Official Plan (i.e., planned to accommodate higher density mixed-use areas). Accordingly, the FRTN for Highway 407 should be extended easterly to Harmony Road and along Bloor Street to Harmony Road. The small section of Winchester Road (between Simcoe Street and Harmony Road), and Taunton Road east of Harmony Road, should be removed. x The mapping of the Highway 2 extension (from Simcoe Street to the future Bowmanville GO Station) is inconsistent between Maps 5 and 6. The alignment in Map 6 should be followed in Map 5, as Map 5 follows the Nash Road alignment easterly up to the future Highway 418, and does not extend easterly to the Bowmanville GO Station. 19 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments x Map 6 needs to include the future Pickering Airport site x The Region's Draft TMP Report also shows several corridors which are characterized as High Frequency Bus in Shared Lane with transit priority, but are not identified in Map 5 as part of the FRHN or Map 6 as Priority Bus corridors. These include: Rossland Road/proposed Peter Mathews Drive from Highway 407 to Harmony Road; Westney Road from Taunton Road to Kingston Road; Harwood Avenue from Kingston Road to Bayly Street; Thornton Road from Taunton Road to the future Thornton's Corners GO Station; Winchester Road from Baldwin Street to Simcoe Street. We also request that the Highway 2 corridor from the future Highway 418 to Regional Road 57/Bowmanville GO Station be added to the network. Map 8 Proposed Regional Goods Movement Network (for Roads and Highways) — The New Freight Corridor (Conceptual) shown in Map 3: Existing and In Delivery Regional Rail and Rapid Transit Projects is missing from this map, even though it is intended for goods movement. This freight corridor should not only be added to Map 8 for context, but also briefly described in the "Optimize the highway and major road and rail network for goods movement" on pages 76-77 for reference/context. Many readers may not realize that this connection is a "missing link" in the GTHA rail network and is critical for future goods movement by rail around the most built-up areas of the City of Toronto. 83 Strategy 4: Integrate Land Use and Transportation — Under "Better integrate land use and transportation planning", the 5t" paragraph notes that all municipalities in the GTHA have Transportation Master Plans (TMPs). Please refer to above comment on Page 12. 91 Priority Actions for Strategy 4 — Action 4.6 includes wording to "plan, design and construct" a regional commuter cycling network, and in the "Develop a Regional Cycling Network" section (pages 86-89), it is noted that "[a]chieving it will require the Province, municipalities and transit operators to NEI Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments establish common standards for design and funding." As such, the Draft 2041 RTP should make recommendations for sustained Provincial funding to help municipalities achieve such networks. General Durham supports expanding bike share programs to Durham if there is provincial funding available to assist with implementation. Strategy 4.7 The DC Act constrains how much a municipality can charge in support of transit. What other funding tools are envisioned to support TDM? Strategy 4.8 Will Metrolinx be revising their 2016 Station Access Plan to align with the proposed Parking Charter? We suggest that the parking requirements collaboration should be led by the local transit authority and municipality as they have a much better grasp of the combination of access services needed to service their community. Strategy 4.9 Durham Region supports the notion of direct cycling (and pedestrian) routes that cross barriers like the 400 series highways and railroad corridors. The owners of these corridors who benefit from the right of way should fund the crossing infrastructure. Map 9 Proposed 2041 Regional Cycling Network — We are pleased to see that the Whites Road Secondary Route section was added to the network, but other comments we provided on the Draft RTP Regional Cycling Network in September have not been incorporated, as follows: x Westney Road North — north of Taunton Road, we question why this connection is needed for a commuter -based cycling initiative, as it extends within the rural area. This connection is not part of the Regional Cycling Plan. Instead, Brock Road from north of Highway 7 to Taunton Road should be included as a Secondary Regional Route. x Salem Road, from Taunton Road to Bayly Street — we recommend adding this connection, as there is a 21 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments considerable north -south gap between Westney Road and Cochrane Street. This road is contained in the RCP and the Region's Draft TMP. Salem Road provides an important arterial connection to Kingston Road, serves the Uptown Ajax Regional Centre, and developing lands in the Carruthers Creek Employment Area. x Grandview Street, from King Street to Olive Avenue — this connection is not on an arterial road, nor is it in the RCP. We recommend changing the north -south connection to King Street from Grandview Street to Townline Road, and extending the facility easterly along Olive Avenue to Townline Road, consistent with the RCP. x Thornton Road, from Taunton Road to Adelaide Avenue — This section should be added as it is planned as a separated cycling facility (multi -use path) in the RCP and Draft TMP, and connects the future Thornton's Corners GO Station and Trent University with the King Street/Highway 2 corridor and future employment lands north of Taunton Road. Principles for The Draft 2041 RTP does not include an investment strategy, Funding the but does include a discussion of principles for a long-term RTP, 109-110, strategy. The principles (including sustainability, throughout transparency, accountability, etc.) are welcomed by the Region. The Region recognizes that transit projects will require both capital and operating funding support from senior levels of government and that funding strategies should align with the available funding tools at each level of government. As municipalities have limited tools for funding transit, a greater share of funding should be provided by Federal and Provincial governments. Any forthcoming investment strategy should ensure that revenues collected from Durham Region residents are used for the delivery of services in Durham Region, and not to WA Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments subsidize services outside of Durham Region. The strategy should add new revenue tools to assist municipalities in sustainable funding of transit services. In the investment strategy, Metrolinx needs to take care that any fees or levies proposed do not unduly disadvantage GTHA municipalities and businesses compared to those that border the GTHA. It is recommended that Metrolinx undertake a fulsome investment strategy as early as possible to allow sufficient time for consultation with municipalities and for municipal financial planning. Parking Demand The Region supports the implementation of a parking space Strategies levy/charge for park and ride facilities at GO Rail stations as an additional source of funds and an incentive for GO Rail passengers to use local bus service as their preferred mode of access to rail stations. Ownership of The Draft 2041 RTP does not make it clear who will maintain Assets ownership of transit and active transportation assets after project completions. Ownership of assets should reside with the level of government that is responsible and accountable for their associated service provision. General Regional staff provided Metrolinx staff with background information on the Seaton Community in Pickering, including policy context and current status of development from a transportation planning perspective. The Central Pickering Development Plan (CPDP) has a forecasted population of up to 70,000 and employment of 35,000 within the Seaton Community for ultimate buildout, without a specified timeline. By 2031, the CPDP forecasts that Seaton will have 61,000 people and 30,500 jobs. Also included in this background information is a discussion of potential demand for transit on the Highway 407 corridor and Seaton GO Station from the Seaton Community, as well as other growth areas within commuting distance to the station. Regional staff request that more direction be provided in the RTP update in terms of the role and evolution of Highway 407 23 Durham Region Comments on Draft 2041 RTP Page/Reference Comments transit service as a special Regional Express Corridor. Further, we request that the Seaton GO Rail be included station in the recommended transit network prior to 2041, and policy direction be given to undertake an EA for this rail line and specific location/design for the Seaton GO Station. A-10 We suggest modelling a scenario where all 400 series highways in the GTHA are tolled in an equitable manner to see how traffic would be redistributed. Mz!