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03 - February 11, 2025 County Council Agenda PackageElgmCounty Elgin County Council Regular Council Meeting Orders of the Day Tuesday, February 11, 2025, 9:00 a.m. Council Chambers 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON Note for Members of the Public: Please click the link below to watch the Council Meeting: https://www.facebook.com/ElginCounty Accessible formats available upon request. Pages 1. Call to Order 2. Adoption of Minutes 3 3. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4. Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations 4.1 Dawn Maziak, Board Chair and David James, Board Vice Chair - West 9 Elgin Community Health Centre Presentation 5. Committee of the Whole 6. Reports of Council, Outside Boards and Staff 6.1 Warden Jones - Warden's Activity Report (January 2025) 37 6.2 Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives - 39 Elgincentives Application — Tax Increment Equivalent Grant for DHC Harris Enterprises 6.3 Director of Engineering Services - Transportation Master Plan — Phase 1 42 — Needs and Opportunities Update Report 7. Council Correspondence 7.1 Items for Consideration 7.2 Items for Information (Consent Agenda) 7.2.1 Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus Media Release, January 29, 289 2024 - Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus Chair to Take a Leave of Absence. 8. Other Business 8.1 Statements/Inquiries by Members 8.2 Notice of Motion 8.3 Matters of Urgency 9. Closed Meeting Items 9.1 Director of Community and Cultural Services - Labour Relations Matters Municipal Act Section 239 (2) (d) labour relations or employee negotiations. 9.2 Director of Planning and Development - Sunset Provincial Lands (h) information explicitly supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board by Canada, a province or territory or a Crown agency of any of them; and (k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board. 10. Motion to Rise and Report 11. Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee of the Whole 12. Consideration of By -Laws 12.1 By -Law No. 25-06 Procedural By -Law 12.2 By -Law No. 25-07 Confirmation 13. Adjournment 290 328 Page 2 of 328 ElginCOUrity Elgin County Council Minutes January 28, 2025, 10:00 a.m. Council Chambers 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON Members Present: Warden Grant Jones Deputy Warden Ed Ketchabaw Councillor Dominique Giguere Councillor Mark Widner Councillor Jack Couckuyt Councillor Andrew Sloan (virtual) Councillor Todd Noble Councillor Mike Hentz Councillor Richard Leatham (virtual) Staff Present: Blaine Parkin, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Nicholas Loeb, Director of Legal Services Michele Harris, Director of Homes and Seniors Services Brian Masschaele, Director of Community & Cultural Services Jennifer Ford, Director of Financial Services/Treasurer Peter Dutchak, Director of Engineering Services Mat Vaughan, Director of Planning and Development Katherine Thompson, Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk Jenna Fentie, Legislative Services Coordinator Stefanie Heide, Legislative Services Coordinator Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. with Warden Jones in the chair. 2. Adoption of Minutes Moved by: Councillor Hentz Seconded by: Councillor Noble RESOLVED THAT the minutes of the meeting held on January 14, 2025 be adopted. Motion Carried. 3. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof None. 4. Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations 4.1 Betsy McClure, Manager of Communications, Stewardship and Outreach Kettle Creek Conservation Authority - Elgin Clean Water Program 2024 Annual Report The Manager of Communications, Stewardship and Outreach for Kettle Creek Conservation Authority, Betsy McClure, provided a presentation on the Elgin Clean Water Program 2024 annual report. Page 3 of 328 Moved by: Councillor Giguere Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT the presentation from the Elgin Clean Water Program be received and filed; and THAT Council request that the Elgin Clean Water Program provide a proposal to utilize a portion of the funds for landowners with existing projects to maintain their investment. Motion Carried. 4.2 Karen Davies, President & Chief Executive Officer St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital - Case for a New Facility Karen Davies, President and Chief Executive Officer of St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH), presented information and updates about STEGH and outlined the need for a new hospital to meet the evolving healthcare needs of St. Thomas and Elgin County. Moved by: Councillor Noble Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT the presentation from the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital be received and filed. Motion Carried. 5. Committee of the Whole Moved by: Councillor Widner Seconded by: Councillor Leatham RESOLVED THAT we do now move into Committee of the Whole. Motion Carried. 6. Reports of Council, Outside Boards and Staff 6.1 Director of Engineering Services - King Bridge Replacement (Tender No. 2024-T29) — Contract Award The Director of Engineering Services presented a report providing Council with information regarding the bids received for the tender that was advertised and issued for the Replacement of the King Bridge including a recommendation for the Contract Award. Moved by: Deputy Warden Ketchabaw Seconded by: Councillor Widner RESOLVED THAT Gary D. Robinson Contracting be selected to complete the King Bridge Replacement Project, Tender No. 2024-T29 at a total price of $1,578,446, inclusive of a $75,000 contingency allowance and exclusive of H.S.T.; and THAT the Warden and Chief Administrative Officer be directed and authorized to sign the contract. Motion Carried. 6.2 Director of Community and Cultural Services - Relocation of Aylmer Library Branch to the East Elgin Community Complex The Director of Community and Cultural Services provided a presentation to Council in consideration of requests from the Town of Aylmer Council for Elgin County Council to establish a committee to advance the matter of the Aylmer Library and from the Board of Directors of the East Elgin Page 4 of 328 Community Complex (EECC) regarding a possible relocation of the Aylmer Library to the EECC. Moved by: Councillor Couckuyt Seconded by: Councillor Giguere RESOLVED THAT Elgin County Council endorses in principle the relocation of the Aylmer branch of the Elgin County Library to the East Elgin Community Complex; and THAT Aylmer Town Council be requested to endorse in principle the relocation of the Aylmer branch of the Elgin County Library to the East Elgin Community Complex; and THAT the Director of Community and Cultural Services report back to County Council regarding next steps in the process to accommodate the Aylmer branch of the Elgin County Library at the East Elgin Community Complex, including opportunities for public consultation; and THAT Aylmer Town Council's request "to establish a committee to advance the matter of a Greater Aylmer area Library" be received and filed based on the information contained in the report titled "Relocation of the Aylmer Library to the East Elgin Community Complex" from the Director of Community and Cultural Services dated January 28, 2025; and THAT copies of this report be circulated to the Councils of the Town of Aylmer and the Township of Malahide. Yes (9): Warden Jones, Deputy Warden Ketchabaw, Councillor Giguere, Councillor Widner, Councillor Couckuyt, Councillor Sloan, Councillor Noble, Councillor Hentz, and Councillor Leatham Motion Carried. (9 to 0) 6.3 Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk - Pre -Budget Consultation Feedback for 2025 Ontario Budget The Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk presented a report on the Pre -Budget Consultation feedback for the 2025 Provincial Budget. Moved by: Councillor Couckuyt Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT feedback from County Council be incorporated into the draft Pre -Budget Consultation Feedback document; and THAT staff submit the Pre -Budget Consultation Feedback document to the Minister of Finance by the February 3, 2025, deadline. Motion Carried. 6.4 Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk - Municipal Accountability Act Consultation Feedback The Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk presented a report including a draft letter of Council's feedback on the proposed changes to the Municipal Accountability Act, 2024 to be submitted to the Hon. Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, for Council's consideration. Moved by: Councillor Giguere Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT the report titled "Municipal Accountability Act" from the Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk dated January 28, 2025 be received and filed; and Page 5 of 328 THAT any additional feedback from Council be incorporated into the letter to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing regarding proposed changes to the Municipal Accountability Act, 2024; and THAT staff submit the letter by the submission deadline of February 10, 2025. Motion Carried. 6.5 Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk - Draft Procedural By -Law The Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk presented a report including incorporated feedback from Council in a draft Procedural By -Law for Council's consideration. Council recessed at 11:15 a.m. and reconvened at 11:25 a.m Moved by: Councillor Leatham Seconded by: Councillor Sloan RESOLVED THAT the report titled "Draft Procedural By -Law" from the Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk dated January 28, 2025 be received and filed; and THAT Staff incorporate any additional feedback into a final version of the updated Procedural By -Law; and THAT this report acts as Notice of the intent to repeal By -Law 19-41 and related amendments 20-47, 21-42, and 24-40 and adopt a new by-law to regulate the proceedings in the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin. Motion Carried. 7. Council Correspondence 7.1 Items for Consideration 7.1.1 Resolution from the Municipality of Central Elgin Council RE: Request for Financial Support - Hospice of Elgin Moved by: Councillor Sloan Seconded by: Councillor Noble RESOLVED THAT Item 7.1.1 Resolution from the Municipality of Central Elgin Council RE: Request for Financial Support - Hospice of Elgin be considered at the January 28, 2025 Finance Committee meeting, including the ask for $100,000. Motion Carried. 7.2 Items for Information (Consent Agenda) Moved by: Councillor Noble Seconded by: Councillor Couckuyt RESOLVED THAT Correspondence Items #7.2.1 - 7.2.2 be received and filed. Motion Carried. 7.2.1 Western Ontario Warden's Caucus Media Release - Mayor Amy Martin elected as WOWC Chair for 2025, with photos 7.2.2 Email from James Crane RE: Tree Conservation Page 6 of 328 8. Other Business 8.1 Statements/Inquiries by Members None. 8.2 Notice of Motion None. 8.3 Matters of Urgency None. 9. Closed Meeting Items None. 10. Motion to Rise and Report None. 11. Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee of the Whole Moved by: Councillor Giguere Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT we do now adopt recommendations of the Committee of the Whole. Motion Carried. 12. Consideration of By -Laws 12.1 By -Law No. 25-04 Joseph Street Speed Zone Amendment BEING a By -Law to Amend the Schedule to By -Law No. 24-19 Being a By -Law to Authorize Speed Limits. Moved by: Councillor Noble Seconded by: Councillor Sloan RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 25-04 be now read a first, second, and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 12.2 By -Law No. 25-05 Confirmation BEING a By -Law to Confirm Proceedings of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin at the January 28, 2025 Meeting. Moved by: Councillor Noble Seconded by: Councillor Leatham RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 25-05 be now read a first, second, and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 13. Adjournment Moved by: Councillor Widner Seconded by: Deputy Warden Ketchabaw RESOLVED THAT we do now adjourn at 11:31 a.m. to meet again on February 11, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. Motion Carried. 5 Page 7 of 328 Blaine Parkin, Grant Jones, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden. Page 8 of 328 Plllflflffff((f�IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIU Ull oujujDDDDDDDji rllewff o()II �,»a ��Illllllllllllllllll � �,��»� � r11I��IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIVI � �,�,»»� �Wn>(U Ilia U,l,ddl8ififlflll�//��'�,, �IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIP ��IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIVI �r�iw»G � �„l��r ��innnm �»»,J/im„us a�l1!lNNBflffffll(DU� y�»��,�� ii�,!llUa� »1JJJll,Yil9Jlf(�� ')JJJJ�,Y�DJllil� lwwwwilryv �,»rl �i�u� �r °�� ll �1DDDDDDDDDDDlU �»»� � mmlu�ilm Plllu)ilm "MIUMr �IIIIIUIpl�llpl'� V!� p �wwwOV �ev IWWI��WIlIlA1WIW!�' aI� IW��WIlIlA1WIW!�' � 'P� u0�1 d n UIDUWL1l/U� UUU��ddWJJlIyY�� //�� .. J1f�� L1e� i OP. . lwir 'q!'I�! 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�m��lllfl0act° L IJ �(%`1r11 d,1�JJ I, cow IJo, 01 //Jp111Ill JI,JiJ IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII �n�llllllllllllllllul �1�1»II>Iull�;� a1�JJJlldlf�J�11 Ull ppfDDDDDDDDDDDIU ��lf�fi�l ��//Jp111J1)1� JI,JiJ �f°ll�/G�liliill(ra�l ,»ullllllllllllm��y � ,1llullllllllllrl� ,� �iulu�l�a� co N C7 O C7 N (6 Report to County Council From: Grant Jones, Warden Date: February 11, 2025 Subject: Warden's Activity Report (January 2025) Recommendation(s): THAT the report titled "Warden's Activity Report (January 2025)" from Warden Jones dated February 11, 2025 be received and filed. Introduction: The purpose of this report is to provide a high-level summary of the meetings and official functions I have attended during the month of January as Elgin County Warden. Background and Discussion: Events/Meetings Attended by Warden: January 2025: • WOWC AGM and Regular Meeting (January 10) • Health Recruitment Partnership (January 13) • County Council (January 14) • ROMA Conference (January 19-21) • Elgin County Delegation with Minister of Health (January 21) • Health Recruitment Symposium Sub Committee (January 16, 23, & 28) • Meeting with MP Karen Vecchio (January 22) • State of the City Address and Breakfast with London Mayor Josh Morgan (January 23) • Human Resources Committee (January 24) • Growth Planning Steering Committee Meeting (January 24) • Southwold Township 175t" Anniversary Kick-off Event (January 25) • Pre -Budget Consultation Breakfast with Minister of Finance (January 28) • County Council (January 28) • Finance Committee (January 28) • Health Recruitment Partnership Symposium (January 28) Page 37 of 328 Financial Implications: None. Alignment with Strategic Priorities: Serving Elgin Growing Elgin Investing in Elgin ❑ Ensuring alignment of ❑ Planning for and ❑ Ensuring we have the current programs and facilitating commercial, necessary tools, services with community industrial, residential, and resources, and need. agricultural growth. infrastructure to deliver programs and services ❑ Exploring different ways ❑ Fostering a healthy now and in the future. of addressing community environment. need. ❑ Delivering mandated ❑ Enhancing quality of programs and services ® Engaging with our place. efficiently and effectively. community and other stakeholders. Local Municipal Partner Impact: Elgin County continues to work with and find ways to collaborate with Elgin's municipal partners. Communication Reauirements: None. Conclusion: I am deeply honored to have been selected by my colleagues for the office of Warden. I eagerly anticipate representing the County and advocating for its interests at events and meetings throughout the year. All of which is Respectfully Submitted Grant Jones Warden Approved for Submission Blaine Parkin Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Page 38 of 328 Report to County Council From: Carolyn Krahn, Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives Date: February 11, 2025 Subject: Elgincentives Application — Tax Increment Equivalent Grant for DHC Harris Enterprises Recommendation(s): THAT the report titled "Elgincentives Application — Tax Increment Equivalent Grant for DHC Harris Enterprises" from the Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives dated February 11, 2025 be received and filed; and THAT the Elgincentives application submitted by DHC Harris Enterprises Inc. (Evelyn's Sausage Kitchen) for the Tax Increment Equivalent Grant be approved by Council; and THAT the grant be applied only to the commercial and industrial assessment portion of the project (and not any other tax classes); and THAT the grant be applied to 100% of the County portion of the tax increase, decreasing by 10% for a period of 5 years; and THAT the Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to sign the financial agreement for the approved project as described in the application package for the applicant DHC Harris Enterprises Inc. Introduction: In 2015, all Local Municipal Partners approved their respective Community Improvement Plans (CIP). The CIP offers a Tax Increment Equivalent Grant (TIEG) for major projects. The TIEG stimulates investment by deferring part of the increase in property taxation due to the significant development, redevelopment, reconstruction, or rehabilitation of land or buildings. Page 39 of 328 Typically, the approval of the Elgincentives Implementation Committee is the only requirement needed to approve an Elgincentives application. However, the TIEG must be approved by both the applicant's Municipal Council and Elgin County Council. Endorsement from both levels of government is required as this grant allows for the increase in Municipal and County taxation to be deferred for five (5) years. Background and Discussion: The Elgincentives Implementation Committee received and reviewed an application from DHC Harris Enterprises for a Tax Increment Equivalent Grant. The application details a project that involves relocating the existing Evelyn's Sausage Kitchen at the main intersection of Shedden approximately 1.3 kms east on Talbot Line. The new location will be home to a purpose built 2,400 square foot commercial space that will facilitate both the retail and processing needs of the long-standing Shedden business. The new processing space will ensure that the business will be able to satisfy OMAFA that all O-Regs are able to be properly adhered to without the need for any special protocols or procedures. The project also includes the construction of a residential component, which is not eligible for a grant or tax relief. On their application for the TIEG, the applicant indicated that the estimate of the total project from land acquisition, to building the new structure, and completing the interior requirements is approximately $2,000,000.00. The Implementation Committee reviewed the application at their meeting on January 8, 2025. While the program does allow for a five-year grant at 100% each year over the five-year period, the Committee's recommendation is based on the scoring matrix and commentary which noted that the application would have scored higher if it were located in a downtown core area, reducing a vacancy there instead of in an area outside of the main intersection. As a result, the Committee recommended a deferral of 100% of the tax increase related to the commercial and industrial assessment portion of the project (and not the residential) in the first year and decreasing by 10% for a period of 5 years (100% in year 1, 90% in year 2, 80% in year 3, 70% in year 4, 60% in year 5, and 0% in year 6). Financial Implications: Determining the financial value of the grant is imprecise because MPAC assessments are property specific. Southwold staff provided a range of possible values for their portion of the grant based on similar property assessments. They identified three properties that were similar in terms of construction and use, and they identified the properties' average assessment per square foot. When applied to the proposed 2,400 square foot commercial space, staff estimated that the Southwold tax revenue (based on Southwold's 2024 tax rates) for the commercial construction could potentially range from $1,714 - $4427. County staff calculated the possible value of the grant using the same comparable properties. Based on the 2024 County tax rate, the Elgin County tax revenue for the commercial construction could range from $2,663 to $4,813 for the first year. This amount would then be reduced to 90% of the total grant in year two, 80% in year three, etc. Page 40 of 328 Alignment with Strategic Priorities: Serving Elgin Growing Elgin Investing in Elgin ❑ Ensuring alignment of ® Planning for and ❑ Ensuring we have the current programs and facilitating commercial, necessary tools, services with community industrial, residential, and resources, and need. agricultural growth. infrastructure to deliver programs and services ❑ Exploring different ways ❑ Fostering a healthy now and in the future. of addressing community environment. need. ❑ Delivering mandated ® Enhancing quality of programs and services ❑ Engaging with our place. efficiently and effectively. community and other stakeholders. Local Municipal Partner Impact: On January 27, 2025, Southwold Council approved their portion of the Tax Increment Equivalent Grant for DHC Harris Enterprises. Communication Requirements: Staff will notify the applicant and share the project on the County's website and social media to highlight how the Township of Southwold and Elgin County are supporting local businesses to grow. Conclusion: The Elgincentives Implementation Committee has recommended the application by DHC Harris Enterprises for approval as it meets all the requirements of the TIEG described in the Elgincentives Community Improvement Plan. All of which is Respectfully Submitted Carolyn Krahn Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives Approved for Submission Blaine Parkin Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Page 41 of 328 Report to County Council From: Peter Dutchak, Director of Engineering Services Date: February 11, 2025 Subject: Transportation Master Plan — Phase 1 — Needs and Opportunities Update Report Recommendation(s): THAT the report titled "Transportation Master Plan — Phase 1 — Needs and Opportunities Update Report" from the Director of Engineering Services dated February 11, 2025 be received and filed. Introduction: The development of the County's first ever Transportation Master Plan (TMP) was launched in 2021 and a Phase 1 — Opportunities and Needs report was published in March 2022. Subsequent changes in Elgin County, most notably the announcement of the Power Co. Battery Plant in St. Thomas was announced that necessitated a pause, restart and revision to the Phase 1 TMP report. The updated Phase 1 report is now complete and attached for Council's information. This Council report will provide an overview of the significant changes that are now included to reflect the most recent known developments in the County and serve as a guide to develop future solutions. Background and Discussion: The purpose of the Phase 1 report is to identify transportation issues, needs and constraints in Elgin County. Subsequent phases of the study will explore a develop appropriate solutions as well as supporting strategies and policies. This updated Phase 1 report supersedes the report published in 2022 and now includes: The City's annexation of 800 acres from the Municipality of Central Elgin to create a 1,500 acre industrial area. Page 42 of 328 • The announcement of the Volkswagon Groups' subsidiary Power Co. to develop an electric vehicle battery cell plant in St. Thomas and projected impacts to the County road network. • Incorporation of the most recent 2021 census data (previous report utilized 2016 Census data). • New population growth forecasts. • Updated plans and policies for the County, LMPs and adjacent municipalities (including the County's 2024 Official Plan). • Current, post pandemic traffic data and future traffic growth and capacity forecasts. • Utilize updated 5-year collision data (2020-2024). • Update intersection operational analyses at projected growth locations. • Impacts of the proposed development of the former psychiatric hospital lands south of the City of St. Thomas. • Halting of the Wonderland Road/Ron McNeil Line/Highway #3 Roundabout EA. • City of St. Thomas' arterial road development (including expansion of Highbury Avenue within the City). • MTO's twinning of Highway #3, extending a new 4-lane highway to Highway #4 and installing 2 interchanges at Wellington Road and at Ron McNeil Line/Wonderland Road. • Most recent cycling route data. • Review and update changes to the Transit Network and Service analysis to include: Middlesex County Connect inter -community transit service, and the new transit route established between the City of St. Thomas and Dorchester with a new stop at the Amazon plant. • Adjust the TMP's Near -Term (2034), Medium -Term (2044) and Long -Term (2054) planning horizon years. • Include the County's Corporate Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan (2024). This updated Phase 1 report can now be published on the County's website for public view and comment. Phase 2 (Develop and Assess Network Alternatives) and Phase 3 (Develop TMP strategies) will propose solutions to the needs identified in the Phase 1 report. Next steps will include the completion and approval of the County's Cycling Master Plan and Network Rationalization. Both of these initiatives will be presented to County Council in the near future to advance the progress of the TMP which is on track to be finalized in July 2025. Financial Implications: The outcomes of the Phase 2 and 3 reports will include proposed infrastructure investments to be scheduled within the capital plan. These estimated costs will be presented to Council along with proposed solutions in the near future. Page 43 of 328 Alignment with Strategic Priorities: Serving Elgin Growing Elgin Investing in Elgin ® Ensuring alignment of ® Planning for and ® Ensuring we have the current programs and facilitating commercial, necessary tools, services with community industrial, residential, and resources, and need. agricultural growth. infrastructure to deliver programs and services ® Exploring different ways ® Fostering a healthy now and in the future. of addressing community environment. need. ® Delivering mandated ® Enhancing quality of programs and services ® Engaging with our place. efficiently and effectively. community and other stakeholders. Local Municipal Partner Impact: The updated Phase 1 report will be circulated to our LMPs for information and comment. Communication Requirements: This updated Phase 1 report will be published on the County's TMP website and the public will be solicited to provide comment. Conclusion: The Transportation Master Plan's, Phase 1 (Opportunities and Needs) Report has now been updated to incorporate new information affecting future growth and development needs. This report can now be published and made available on the County's website and be circulated to the County's LMPs and the public for comment. The information included in this updated Phase 1 report will guide the development of solutions to address the identified needs. Staff will be reporting to Council in the near future to present a draft Cycling Master Plan and a Network Rationalization study to assist in the development of the next phases of the TMP. All of which is Respectfully Submitted Peter Dutchak Director of Engineering Services Approved for Submission Blaine Parkin Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Page 44 of 328 14AR IS 57", This document has been formatted for double -sided printing. Cover photo credits, left to right- 1 . P. Dutchak 2. By abdallahh from Montreal, Canada - Port Stanley, Ontario (Lake Erie), CC BY 2.0, cropped https-Hcommons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38657869 3. P. Dutchak 4. By P199 at Wikimedia Commons — Rodney, Ontario licensed under CC BY -SA 3.0, cropped https-Hcommons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File-Rodney_ON.JPG Page 46 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Table of Contents 1 Introduction...............................................................................................1 1.1 Report Purpose and Outline.............................................................1 1.2 What is a Transportation Master Plan?.............................................3 2 Study Overview.........................................................................................4 2.1 Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Process Compliance ... 6 2.2 TMP Planning Horizon Years............................................................9 2.3 Phase I Engagement Overview........................................................9 3 TMP Guiding Principles, Vision and Goals...........................................11 3.1 Guiding Principles...........................................................................11 3.2 Transportation Vision......................................................................12 3.3 Goals..............................................................................................12 4 Geographic and Socio-Economic Context............................................14 4.1 Local Municipalities.........................................................................16 4.2 Adjacent Municipalities...................................................................19 4.3 Indigenous Nations and Communities............................................22 4.4 Physical Geography........................................................................23 4.5 Population.......................................................................................24 4.6 Economy.........................................................................................32 5 Transportation System Overview...........................................................39 5.1 Road Network.................................................................................39 5.2 Active Transportation......................................................................43 5.3 Passenger Transit...........................................................................43 5.4 Rail.................................................................................................44 5.5 Airports...........................................................................................45 6 Planning and Policy Context..................................................................46 6.1 Provincial Policies and Initiatives....................................................46 6.2 County Policies and Initiatives........................................................55 6.3 Policies and Initiatives of Local Municipal Partners ........................63 6.4 Policies and Initiatives of Adjacent Municipalities ...........................65 Page 47 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 6.5 Policies and Initiatives of Adjacent First Nations .............................67 6.6 Other Relevant Initiatives................................................................67 7 Commuting Patterns in Elgin County....................................................69 7.1 Census Commuting Flows, 2021....................................................69 7.2 Commuting Impacts from Major Developments..............................73 8 County Road Network.............................................................................79 8.1 Physical Characteristics..................................................................79 8.2 Recent and Planned County Road Network Improvements ............ 79 8.3 Road Classifications and Designations...........................................85 8.4 Traffic Volumes and Road Capacity...............................................91 8.5 Intersection Operations Review....................................................101 8.6 Traffic Collisions...........................................................................104 8.7 Goods Movement.........................................................................109 8.8 Engagement Feedback Received about the Road Network in Elgin County..........................................................................................111 9 Cycling Network....................................................................................116 9.1 A "County" Cycling Network..........................................................116 9.2 "Design" Cyclists...........................................................................118 9.3 Building on Previous Network Planning Initiatives ........................118 9.4 Cycling Demand on Current Network...........................................119 9.5 Engagement Inputs about Cycling in Elgin County .......................122 10 Transit Network and Services..............................................................124 10.1 Municipal Transit Services............................................................126 10.2 Provincial Transit Services...........................................................131 10.3 Federal Transit Services...............................................................132 10.4 Privately -Operated Services.........................................................132 10.5 Other Community Transportation Services...................................134 10.6 Engagement Feedback on Transit Services and Potential ...........134 11 Other Trends Affecting County Transportation..................................136 11.1 Long -Term COVID-19 Impacts.....................................................136 11.2 Emerging Technologies................................................................139 11.3 Travel Demand Management.......................................................144 12 Needs and Opportunities by Mode......................................................145 12.1 Support the County Road Network for Efficient and Safe Connectivity of Residents, Businesses, Visitors and Goods .........145 12.2 Expand Active Transportation Connections and Infrastructure ..... 149 12.3 Explore the Potential for Transit....................................................151 12.4 Support the Movement of Goods to, from and within Elgin County 153 mAm ar(:.ards,Co" Tw Page 48 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 12.5 Develop Supporting Strategies and Policies.................................155 13 Summary and Next Steps.....................................................................157 13.1 Summary of Phase I.....................................................................157 13.2 Next Steps....................................................................................158 List of Exhibits Exhibit 2.1: County of Elgin TMP Updated Study Process ................................... 5 Exhibit 2.2: Municipal Class Environmental Assessment — Planning Process and Consultation Requirements................................................................... 7 Exhibit 2.3: MCEA Master Planning Process Approaches ................................... 8 Exhibit 4.1: Municipal Boundaries in the Vicinity of the County of Elgin ............. 15 Exhibit 4.2: Country of Elgin Settlement Areas and Strategic Employment Areas.................................................................................................. 18 Exhibit 4.3: Major Planned Industrial and Residential Developments — Central Elgin.................................................................................................... 21 Exhibit 4.4: Elgin County Population, Land Area and Population Density by Lower -Tier Municipality....................................................................... 24 Exhibit 4.5: Population Density in Elgin Census Division ................................... 25 Exhibit 4.6: Population Distribution by Age Cohort, 2021: Elgin County, St. Thomas and Ontario........................................................................... 27 Exhibit 4.7: Population by Age Group 2006 to 2021, Elgin County .................... 28 Exhibit 4.8: Elgin County Age Distribution, 2021 and 2051................................ 29 Exhibit 4.9: Projected Population Growth in Elgin County and Adjacent Municipalities...................................................................................... 31 Exhibit 4.10: Employment (by Place -of -Work) and Population in Elgin County. 33 Exhibit 4.11 County of Elgin Crop Inventory(2019)........................................... 36 Exhibit 4.12: Projected Place -of -Work Employment Growth in Elgin County..... 38 Exhibit 5.1: Transportation Infrastructure Overview in Elgin County .................. 40 Exhibit 6.1: Map of Former St. Thomas Psychiatric Hospital Development Lands ............................................................................................................ 47 Exhibit 6.2: Map of Proposed Talbotville Bypass and Highway 4 Widening ...... 52 mAm arr�a d'S,Co" Tw Page 49 of 328 iii TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 6.3: Rendering of Proposed Roundabout at Highway 4 and New TalbotvilleBypass............................................................................... 53 Exhibit 6.4: Rendering of Proposed Interchange at Ron McNeil Line and WonderlandRoad............................................................................... 53 Exhibit 6.5: Ontario Highways Program Map — Expansion and Rehabilitation Projects............................................................................................... 55 Exhibit 6.6: Elgin County Trails Study Proposed Trail Network ......................... 62 Exhibit 7.1: Census Commuting Trips (2021).................................................... 70 Exhibit 7.2: Mode of Travel to Work by Elgin County Residents ........................ 72 Exhibit 7.3: Mode of Travel to Work by Residents of Local Municipalities ......... 72 Exhibit 7.4: Year 2021 Commuting Patterns for Manufacturing in St. Thomas.. 74 Exhibit 7.5: Estimated Battery Cell Plant Trip Distribution ................................. 76 Exhibit 7.6: Estimated Industrial Park Trip Distribution (excludes Battery Cell Plant).................................................................................................. 76 Exhibit 7.7: Year 2043 Average Peak Hour Traffic Volume (per lane per peak direction)............................................................................................. 78 Exhibit 8.1: County of Elgin Road Right -of -Way Widths .................................... 81 Exhibit 8.2: Speed Limits on Provincial and County Roads ............................... 82 Exhibit 8.3: County Road Seasonal Half -Load Restrictions (March 1 to April 30)83 Exhibit 8.4: County of Elgin 10-Year Capital Plan Road Improvements ............. 84 Exhibit 8.5: County of Elgin Functional Road Classes, Official Plan (2024)....... 86 Exhibit 8.6: Road Characteristics by Functional Road Classification: RuralRoads........................................................................................ 87 Exhibit 8.7: Road Characteristics by Functional Road Classification: UrbanRoads....................................................................................... 88 Exhibit 8.8 County of Elgin Emergency Detour Routes ...................................... 89 Exhibit 8.9: County of Elgin Official Plan Scenic Routes .................................... 90 Exhibit 8.10: Year 2021 Weekday Average Traffic on Elgin County Roads....... 92 Exhibit 8.11: Year 2024 Weekday Average Traffic on Elgin County Roads....... 93 Exhibit 8.12: Absolute Volume Change in Weekday Traffic on Elgin County Roads, 2021 to 2024........................................................................... 94 Exhibit 8.13: Percent Change in Weekday Traffic on Elgin County Roads, 2021 to 2024.................................................................................................... 95 Exhibit 8.14: Year 2024 Weekday AM Peak Hour Traffic on Elgin County Roads ............................................................................................................ 96 mAAA/ arr,'.a d'S,C0" Tw Page 50 of 328 iv TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 8.15: Year 2024 Weekday PM Peak Hour Traffic on Elgin County Roads ............................................................................................................ 97 Exhibit 8.16: Year 2024 Weekday AM Peak Hour Volume -to -Capacity Ratios on ElginCounty Roads............................................................................ 98 Exhibit 8.17: Year 2024 Weekday PM Peak Hour Volume -to -Capacity Ratios on ElginCounty Roads............................................................................ 99 Exhibit 8.18: Intersection Operations Analysis Locations in Elgin County based on 2021 Traffic Conditions..................................................................... 102 Exhibit 8.19: Intersection Operations Analysis Locations in Elgin County based on 2024 Traffic Conditions..................................................................... 103 Exhibit 8.20: Initial Collision Event — Elgin County Road Collisions 2020-2024 (4.5 years)................................................................................................ 105 Exhibit 8.21: Top 15 Intersections for All Collision Types along County Roads107 Exhibit 8.22: Map of Top 15 Intersections for All Collision Types along County Roads............................................................................................... 108 Exhibit 8.23: Year 2024 Weekday Total Truck Traffic on Elgin County Roads 110 Exhibit 8.24: Public Survey Responses to Road Network Concerns ............... 112 Exhibit 9.1: Cycling Networks as Components of a Multi -Modal Transportation Network............................................................................................. 117 Exhibit 9.2: County of Elgin Existing and Proposed Active Transportation Network (2020) — to be Reviewed as Part of the TM P Study .......................... 120 Exhibit 9.3: Strava Heat Map of Relative Subscriber Frequency by Route in Elgin County and Vicinity........................................................................... 121 Exhibit 9.4: Public Survey Responses to Factors that Encourage Cycling ...... 122 Exhibit 10.1: Existing and Proposed Transit Services in Elgin County ............. 125 Exhibit 10.2: St. Thomas Railway City Transit Service Map ............................ 128 Exhibit 10.3: Middlesex County Connect Service Map .................................... 130 Exhibit 10.4: T:GO Route 3 Service Schedule ................................................. 131 Exhibit 11.1: Changes in Trip Rates to Elgin County Destinations due to COVID-19......................................................................................... 137 Exhibit 11.2: Public Survey Response to Changing Commuting Patterns ....... 138 Exhibit 11.3: Locations of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Elgin County. 140 Exhibit 11.4: Proposed Locations of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Elgin County (2020)................................................................................... 141 mAm a"(.;a diaa,(.;oi ' Page 51 of 328 v TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 11.5: Universal Classification System of Automation Levels for Motor Vehicles............................................................................................ 143 List of Appendices Appendix A: Detailed Policies and Initiatives Review of Lower -Tier Municipalities Appendix B: Detailed Policies and Initiatives Review of Adjacent Municipalities Appendix C: Traffic Operations Analysis mAm a"(.;a diaa,(.;oi'n Page 52 of 328 vi TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 1 Introduction The County of Elgin is developing its first Transportation Master Plan (TMP), branded "Elgin in Motion". This long-term strategy will outline transportation policy directions and identify transportation infrastructure plans to meet the transportation needs of the County's residents, businesses, and visitors through 2054, considering all modes of travel. o.f." Transportation IIIaIn poIrillya°' i IfI M c, t () r RIIa n The TMP study was launched in 2021, and a Phase I report was published in March 2022. Subsequent changes in Elgin County, most notably a municipal boundary adjustment with the City of St. Thomas, required a refresh of this report to update the County context and transportation needs and opportunities. The County's updated Official Plan (2024) confirmed that population is anticipated to grow faster than previously forecasted. The TMP will support the County's updated land use plans and will serve as transportation blueprint for the changes ahead. "Transportation" includes the movement of people and goods by all travel modes: car and truck, rail, public transit, cycling, walking and more. Robust multi -modal transportation connectivity is vital to making Elgin County an even more accessible, safe and prosperous place to live, work and visit, both for the County's vibrant settlement areas and its rural communities. The TMP will guide the County toward its transportation Vision while responding to the needs and priorities of its residents and visitors, and the unique and sometimes competing priorities throughout the region. 1.1 Report Purpose and Outline The purpose of this Phase I report is to identify transportation issues, needs and constraints in Elgin County, which collectively represent the "problem statement" component of the MCEA master planning process. This is an updated Phase I report which supersedes the version published in March 2022. Additionally, this report identifies opportunities to leverage toward potential solutions. Subsequent phases of the study will explore and develop appropriate transportation solutions for Elgin County, as well as supporting strategies and policies. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 53 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Following this introductory chapter, this report is structured as follows: • Chapter 2 provides a study overview including the TMP study process and timelines, Municipal Class Environmental Assessment alignment, and Phase I engagement activities; • Chapter 3 presents the TMP study's strategic framework: it transportation Guiding Principles, Vision and Goals; • Chapter 4 provides geographic and socio-economic context about the County including local and adjacent governments, Indigenous communities, physical geography, population and the economy; • Chapter 5 provides an overview of the multi -modal transportation system components in the County, with a focus on clarifying responsibilities for different transportation elements; • Chapter 6 provides an overview of the relevant plans, policies and initiatives across various levels of governments and agencies as important planning context for the TMP; • Chapter 7 describes the commuting patterns in Elgin County, including transportation impacts of ongoing major developments; • Chapter 8 describes the County road network including its physical infrastructure, road classifications, traffic volumes, operational assessment; • Chapter 9 describes the County's cycling network; • Chapter 10 describes passenger transit services in and near Elgin County; • Chapter 11 describes other trends that are anticipated to have an impact on County transportation into the future; • Chapter 12 summarizes mode -by -mode transportation needs and opportunities for Elgin County based on Phase I findings; and • Chapter 13 provides a summary of the key takeaways and the overarching transportation needs, and outlines the next steps in the TMP study process. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 54 of 328 2 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 1.2 What is a Transportation Master Plan? A transportation master plan is a forward -looking document developed to guide the planning, expansion and management of a multi -modal transportation system —the infrastructure and services that move people and goods. The TMP takes a broad, long-range look at the multimodal transportation system as a whole, to provide guidance on individual projects, strategies and policies that align with the County of Elgin's growth and support its vision for the future. Broadly, the TMP: • Sets the direction for developing the County's multi -modal transportation system; • Leads the County toward a more safe, accessible, equitable and sustainable transportation network, supporting local and inter- regional connections for all travel modes, while strengthening local economic and tourism opportunities; and • Aligns with the County's growth management strategies, provide policy directions and inform long-range financial planning. Considerations for the TMP study include the following, among others: • Meeting the travel needs of the County's diverse rural and urban residents, which often involve longer -distance trips within the County or to the Cities of London and St. Thomas; • Supporting local businesses and industries as they move goods to, from and within the County; • Helping visitors travel to and enjoy the County's vast Lake Erie shoreline, waterways, agribusinesses and other natural and cultural heritage features; • Exploring the feasibility of transit or mobility services to provide an alternative to car travel, serving both lower -density and built-up areas; and • Facilitating increased cycling and walking trips for improved community connectivity and health. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 55 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 2 Study Overview The County of Elgin Transportation Master Plan is developed across four study phases: • Phase I: Identify Needs and Opportunities; • Phase I I: Develop and Assess Network Alternatives; • Phase III: Develop TMP Strategies; and • Phase IV: Prepare Transportation Master Plan. Each phase includes technical analysis and activities and customized communication and engagement activities to allow for inputs and feedback from the public and stakeholders. Exhibit 2.1 outlines the updated TMP study process and timelines. The TMP study was initiated in April 2021 with an anticipated completion by late 2022. The study was first paused to allow for new municipal representatives from fall 2022 elections to respond to study findings and initial recommendations. Furthermore, in early 2023, the Province of Ontario announced the construction of a major electric vehicle battery plant to take place on about 600 hectares (1,500 acres) of land annexed from the County of Elgin to the City of St. Thomas. The related regional development projects, provincial highway improvements, changes to population forecasts, and other changes spurred by the new development have considerable impacts on the County road network that could not be anticipated previously. After some of the changes and impacts related to the new development have become better understood, the TMP study resumed in August 2024, beginning with updating Phase I analysis and findings, and is expected to conclude in summer 2025. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 56 of 328 4 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 2.11: County of Elgin TMP Updated Study Process �i Identify Needs and Opportunities around Review * Tra4 Demand Forecast * Mult�i-Modal Needs and Opportunities Phase I Report I March 2022 CEi a,:,se I U p d a te, Update Phase 1 findings and analysis, given revised County context Phase I Update Report I December 201 7/2 Ra nfmw Develop avid Assess Network Alternatives Public Information Centre 1 and Stakeholder Engagement * Potential Transportation Improvements * Afternative Solutions Development S 7ta and Assessment * Preferred Solution and Future Networks Development IPublic lnforma� ion Centre 2 'and Stakehold'69�9:13,1 Develop Supportin,g Strategies and Policies Road Rationalization and Classificatioork Commericial Vehicles and Rail Transit Feasibility Analysis Active Transportation and TraHs Strategies a,�d Filicies P hiase 2 and 3 Report I J an ua ry 202�5 IM MUD mplementation Plan Monitoring Program TMP Report I July 2026 I Page 57 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 2.1 Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Process Compliance The TMP study adheres to the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) planning process for Master Plans under the Province of Ontario's Environmental Assessment Act (EAA), 1990. The MCEA planning process provides a transparent approach to planning and building municipal infrastructure. Updates to the MCEA process were enacted in February 2024, most notably with respect to the classification of projects. The study will be completed following the latest 2024 MCEA update. The Municipal Class Environmental Assessment guidance (Municipal Engineers Association, 2024) explains: A Transportation Master Plan is undertaken by many municipalities to define their long-term transportation objectives as a supplement to transportation needs identified through their Official Plan development process. A Transportation Master Plan integrates existing and future land -use planning and the planning of transportation infrastructure with the principles of environmental assessment planning (Section B.1.2, emphasis added). While a Transportation Master Plan is subject to approval by the municipality, it does not require approval under the Province's EAA. However, specific projects identified within and recommended by the TMP must fulfil the appropriate Class EA requirements. The MCEA process and consultation process are summarized in Exhibit 2.2 for different classes of projects— Exempt, Schedule B and C—as well as for Master Plans. The class of a project is based on the magnitude of its anticipated environmental impact and the cost of construction. Exempt projects have the lowest potential for anticipated impact and Schedule C projects have the highest potential for anticipated impact. The MCEA process requires at minimum two phases of consultation for Master Plan studies: • MCEA Phase 1: Identify the problem or opportunity (corresponding to the County of Elgin's TMP study Phase I and Phase I update); and • MCEA Phase 2: Identify and evaluate alternative solutions to address the problem and establish a preferred solution (corresponding to the County of Elgin TMP study's Phases II through IV). mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 58 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 2.2: Municipal Class Environmental Assessment - Planning Process and Consultation Requirements Consultation Requirements Exempt Schedule B Projects Schedule C Projects Master Plans" �" IIII■IIII IIII■III d tOy MahidOoy Actions required during relevant phase * Proponents must use the discretionary consultation point for master Plan studies. Master plans must follow, at a minimum, the same steps of the first two phases of the MCEA process. Proponents can choose to complete Phase 3 and 4 as part of a master plan for recommended Schedule C projects, or to complete these phases as part of a project specific study. Source: Adapted from Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (Municipal Engineers Association, 2024), Section A.2.1 The MCEA process provides three alternative approaches to master planning, as shown in Exhibit 2.3. Like most municipal TMPs, the County of Elgin TMP follows the Master Plan Approach 1, which takes a broad scope and level of assessment at a regional or systems scale, and provides support for future investigation of recommended projects. Under this approach, "the inventory of the natural, social and economic environments which are to be considered when assessing the alternative solutions may also be broader/more general" and "more detailed investigations at the project specific level are required in order to fulfil the MCEA requirements for the specific Schedule B and C projects identified within the Master Plan" (MCEA section A.2.7.1). The TMP will conclude with a "Notice of Master Plan" and the TMP document made available for public review and comment before being brought forward for municipal approval. mmnf arr ards,Co" Tw Page 59 of 328 7 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 2.3: MCEA Master Planning Process Approaches Level of Detail Broad (project specific Sufficient to fulfil Sufficient to fulfil information is minimal) requirements for requirements for Used as support for Schedule B projects Schedule B and C subsequent Schedule (more detailed project projects (more detailed B and C project specific specific information is project specific studies included) information is included) Used as support for subsequent Phase 3 and 4 for Schedule C project specific studies MCEA Phases Preliminary Phase 1 Phase 1 and 2 Phases 1 to 4 and 2 Final Notice Notice of Master Plan Final notice becomes Final notice becomes *This should not be Notice of Completion Notice of Completion called a notice of for Schedule B projects for Schedule B and C Completion projects Source: Adapted from Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (Municipal Engineers Association, 2024), Section 4.5 Upon municipal approval, exempt projects defined in the TMP under Approach can proceed directly to implementation. For Schedule B and C projects, the Master Plan becomes the basis for projects and support future studies. Specifically, TMPs can define the problem and/or opportunity being addressed and the range of alternatives to consider. Schedule B projects require a Project File Report filed for public review after completion of Phases 1 and 2 of the MCEA. Schedule C projects require an Environmental Study Report filed for public review after completion of Phases 1 through 4 of the MCEA. Note that Master Plans are not subject to section 16 of the EAA. I Requests for an order to comply with section 16 (formerly know as Part II orders) can apply only to projects that are subject to the MCEA, and not the Master Plan itself. A section 16 order can be issued to request additional detail of study for Schedule B and C projects to the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks if the order may prevent, mitigate or remedy adverse impacts on existing Aboriginal and treaty rights. mmm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 60 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 2.2 TMP Planning Horizon Years A planning horizon is the future point in time for which a strategic document looks toward and plans. The County of Elgin TMP study uses the following planning horizon years to envision and prepare the future transportation network: • Near -Term: 2034 — considers strategies, initiatives or plans that could contribute to the transportation system in Elgin County, aligning with capital planning needs over the next 10 years; • Medium -Term: 2044 — medium -range projects or programs that are forecasted over the next 20 years, aligning with the ultimate horizon year of the County's 2024 Official Plan; and • Long -Term: 2054 — the ultimate timeframe for TMP recommendations. 2.3 Phase I Engagement Overview In addition to technical work described in this document, engagement activities conducted during Phase I of the TMP study —the first of two rounds of engagement before the public review period —were critical to understanding transportation -related issues, needs and opportunities in Elgin County, and to solicit input on the study's draft transportation Vision and Goals. Due to health restrictions and precautions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, all consultation events for Phase I were conducted virtually. The first round of engagement included the following activities: • Notice of study commencement (including newspaper advertisements) —June 18, 2021; • Launch of a study web site (https://engageelgin.ca/transportationmasterplan); • Notifications of study commencement and invitations to participate sent to a range of study stakeholders including Indigenous communities; • Municipal Advisory Committee (transportation and planning representatives from the seven Local Municipal Partners in Elgin County) — Meeting 1 took place on July 29, 2021; • Cycling Advisory Committee 1 (representatives from local governments and agencies as well as individuals) — Meeting 1 took place on September 15, 2021; and • Public Information Centre (PIC) 1 (described below). mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 61 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Public Information Centre 1 commenced on June 23, 2021 with the formal comment period open until September 6, 2021. The PIC was hosted virtually on the study web page. The goal was to introduce members of the public to the TMP study and involve them throughout the study process. Participants were invited to view an introductory TMP video prepared by the County and to view "display boards" describing the TMP and the County transportation system (a narrated video of the boards was also available). Participants could provide input in the following ways: • An online public opinion survey was the primary means of obtaining public input. The questionnaire asked a total of 31 questions about the draft transportation Vision and Goals and needs and opportunities for transportation across different travel modes in the County. A total of 154 survey submissions were received. • Interactive mapping tool; • Ongoing engagement question forum; and • Comment box. A separate report, Phase 1 Engagement Summary, provides additional details regarding the engagement process, engagement objectives, conduct of engagement activities, and a comprehensive summary of findings of the first round of engagement. The findings informed the content presented throughout this Phase I report, particularly Chapter 12, Needs and Opportunities by Mode. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 62 of 328 10 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 3 TMP Guiding Principles, Vision and Goals The TMP study is guided by three policy elements: the transportation Vision, Goals and Guiding Principles. The Guiding Principles help direct the study process, while the Vision and Goals point to desired TMP outcomes. These are based on industry best practices and were developed to align with other County of Elgin policies (Section 6.2). The Vision and Goals were presented in draft form to the public and stakeholders as part of the first round of engagement (see Section 2.3) and received high levels of support. Some refinements were made in response to inputs received. Input received is summarized in the Survey Summary report. 3.1 Guiding Principles TMP Guiding Principles are overarching value statements that guide the TMP study process. The Guiding Principles build on best practices in developing transportation master plans in Ontario. Plan for an efficient multi -modal, accessible transportation network, supporting cycling and transit as feasible travel options. 2. Support the safe and dependable movement of people and goods. 3. Plan for transportation equity to ensure the transportation network meets the mobility needs of all County residents. 4. Encourage efficiency and compatibility by integrating transportation and land use planning. 5. Contribute to building healthy and complete communities. 6. Protect transportation corridors for all modes to meet the needs of future residents and visitors. 7. Provide meaningful opportunities to engage with the community and other stakeholders. 8. Support and emphasize fiscal responsibility to be able to deliver programs and services now and in the future. 9. Support strategies to reduce negative impacts on the environment and be resilient to the impacts of climate change. 10. Consider the values of residents and develop solutions that are context -specific to protect and enhance the character and cultural heritage of Elgin County. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 63 of 328 11 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 3.2 Transportation Vision The transportation Vision is a statement of the TMP's aspirations and indicates the desired future state of Elgin County as it relates to its transportation system. It shapes decision -making and serves to help direct the County to where it wants to be at the end of the TMP planning horizon. All TMP recommendations will work towards realizing the Vision. The Vision Statement is as follows: 3.3 Goals The Goals follow from the Vision and represent a set of desired TMP outcomes. It is important that the Goals align with what the residents and stakeholders in Elgin County want the transportation system to be, as they will be used to evaluate potential projects, strategies and policies in Phase 2 of the study process. The draft Goals were shared with the public in the first round of engagement, where they received broad support. The Goals were carried forward and grouped into two categories. Overarching Goals are cross -cutting and influence all TMP recommendations: ,urm� uiur(:)urm�uirneurm�°tal Minimizes disruption of localnatural habitats, waterways, agricultural land and natural heritage features, and also reduces greenhouse gas emissions. infrastructure 2 Represents cost-effective County spending on �se�a sell ��:��unaui Dui ui°t� Lure and operations and takes advantage of partnership opportunities. I°°:u°tuure IIII'lea iineaa: Is future -looking, responsive to changes and trends, and adopts or is prepared for new emerging mobility options where appropriate. mAm arr a d'S,rro" Tw Page 64 of 328 12 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Mobility Goals respond directly to transportation -related needs and opportunities: IEffiiiciiieinnt Couinnty ainnd linter.-IRe iiioinnalll Coin innectiiioinns: Provides safe, efficient and dependable multi -modal connections between communities in the County and inter -regionally, and supports the provision of transit. IHealllt1hy Conni nuiniiitiiies: Improves and encourages local mobility options, including walking and cycling, for daily living and supports the development of accessible and complete communities. IEcoinoi niiic IProsperity: Supports prosperity in the County by helping goods move to and from markets in the County and beyond, and by enhancing the tourism experience. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 65 of 328 13 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 4 Geographic and Socio-Economic Context Elgin County covers an extensive, largely rural area in southwestern Ontario, between the City of London and the north shore of Lake Erie. The County is home to approximately 51,912 people as of 2021,2 residing in its towns, hamlets and rural areas. Agriculture, tourism and developing manufacturing and logistics industries are important drivers of the economy and contribute to the County's vibrant urban areas. Provincial Highways 401, 3 and 4 provide convenient access for both residents and visitors, as well as enables industry to connect to broader markets. A map of the study area highlighting governmental boundaries is shown in Exhibit 4.1. The City of St. Thomas, with a population of approximately 42,840 in 2021,2 is within the County boundaries but is a separate municipality. To the north, the City of London is an important regional centre, with a population of over 422,000 as of 2021. Elgin County is situated along approximately 120 kilometres of bluffs and sandy beaches along the shore of Lake Erie, which, together with the creeks that serve as tributaries of Lake Erie, afford the County with recreational opportunities and charming scenery. This section provides an overview of the following: • local governments; • adjacent governments; • Indigenous Nations and communities; • physical geography; • population; and • economy. 2 Statistics Canada (2023). Census Profile. 2021 Census of Population, no Census undercoverage. <https://wwwl2.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/dp-pd/prof/index.cfm?Lang=E> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 66 of 328 14 LO TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 4.1 Local Municipalities This section provides an overview of the municipal government structure. The plans and policies of each municipality that may impact the County of Elgin's TMP development are described in Chapter 5. The County of Elgin is an upper -tier municipality encompassing seven Local Municipal Partners (LMPs, or lower -tier municipalities). From west to east, these are as follows: • Municipality of West Elgin; • Municipality of Dutton Dunwich; • Township of Southwold; • Municipality of Central Elgin; • Township of Malahide; • Town of Aylmer; and • Municipality of Bayham. In terms of transportation system responsibilities, the County of Elgin is generally responsible for providing connections between the LMPs and to neighbouring municipalities, while the responsibilities of the LMPs tend to focus on serving local transportation. 4.1.1 Settlement Areas Across the County's seven lower -tier municipalities are numerous population settlements of varying sizes. The County of Elgin Official Plan (2024) categorizes settlement areas into a hierarchy of three tiers based on scale, function and the level of available services, as follows: • Tier 1: Settlement areas with the largest populations in the County with full municipal services (i.e. municipal water and sewage). Most new growth is directed to Tier 1 settlement areas. • Tier 2: Settlement areas that are smaller in population than Tier 1 settlements and have partial municipal services. Limited development is permitted in these settlement areas given the absence of full municipal services and lower available amenities and employment. • Tier 3: Settlement areas that have the smallest populations in the County, are predominately residential and have no municipal services. Limited development is permitted in these settlement areas. Locations of settlement areas in Elgin County by tier are shown in Exhibit 4.2. Also shown on the map are the County's Strategic Employment Areas, discussed below. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 68 of 328 16 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Tier 1 settlements are larger settlements have more potential to be developed as complete communities —places where homes, jobs, schools, services and parks are located in close proximity to each other. They may also be most suitable for public transit services or hubs. The County has eleven designated Tier 1 settlement areas, as follows: • Municipality of West Elgin: Rodney and West Lorne; • Municipality of Dutton Dunwich: Dutton; • Municipality of Central Elgin: Belmont, Lynhurst, Eastwood, Norman Lyndale, Port Stanley; • Town of Aylmer: Aylmer; and • Municipality of Bayham: Vienna, Port Burwell. Although Eastwood is a Tier 1 Settlement Area, it is also comprised of commercial/employment land uses, including the St. Thomas Municipal Airport. There are no Tier 1 settlement areas identified in the Townships of Southwold or Malahide. Additionally, there are twenty-four Tier 2 and fifteen Tier 3 settlement areas distributed throughout Elgin County 4.1.2 Strategic Employment Areas The County of Elgin Official Plan (2024) identifies six Strategic Employment Areas across the County, whose general locations were also shown in Exhibit 4.2, though the exact boundaries of the Strategic Employment Areas will be determined in the Official Plans of the respective local municipality. The Official Plan notes that these have the following characteristics: • Large in scale and designed to accommodate large industrial operations and/or operations with significant employment requirements; • Located close to major transportation corridors (e.g. highways, railways, airports and marine ports); and • Serviced by both municipal water and sanitary sewer service. The Strategic Employment Areas are protected from being converted to development that is incompatible with the functions of the employment areas, including residential and large-scale retail/office uses. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 69 of 328 17 9 co (14 co 4- 0 0 rl- (D 0) m 0- TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 4.2 Adjacent Municipalities 4.2.1 City of St. Thomas The City of St. Thomas is a single -tier municipality independent of the County, though the City is geographically encompassed by Elgin County. St. Thomas is an employment centre for many County residents, and is also an important centre for shopping, services and leisure activities. III III...... C III...... IN "'r AIN IN l:..:.XA"'rII O NI N IIf) MAJOIR II IN IID U FIRIALIIf 11f;;;;; III...... O IIf I III...... IN "'r A recent annexation of County lands to the City of St. Thomas and planned major industrial development on these lands has significant implications on the County's transportation network. In June 2022, the City of Thomas purchased over 300 hectares (800 acres) of land in and near the northeast area of the city, including land in the Municipality of Central Elgin, as a "mega -sized" industrial property to attract major manufacturing investment —at that point in time, the purchased lands remained part of Central Elgin.3 In March 2023, Volkswagen Group announced that its subsidiary PowerCo will develop an electric vehicle battery cell plant (St. Thomas Battery Cell "Gigafactory") in St. Thomas.4 To facilitate the plant's development, the Government of Ontario introduced and passed Bill 63: St. Thomas — Central Elgin Boundary Adjustment Act, 2023, which transferred the lands purchased by the City of St. Thomas in 2022 plus an additional 280 hectares (approximately 700 acres) of land from the Municipality of Central Elgin to the City of St. Thomas. This transfer of land to the City of St. Thomas allows the entire 600-hectare (almost 1,500-acre) industrial area to sit within St. Thomas city limits, helping to minimize construction delays by avoiding the need to make duplicate applications for approvals and permits to different municipalities.5 The Province of Ontario is also making improvements to Highways 3 and 4 to improve connectivity to the battery cell plant, as described in Section 6.1. 3 Simon, Amy (2022). "St. Thomas, Ont. purchases 350-hectare `mega -site' for next industrial employer". Global News, June 9. <https://globalnews.ca/news/8909176/st-thomas-mega-site- industry/> Accessed September 2024. 4 Government of Ontario (2023). "Canada and Ontario Welcome Historic Investment from Volkswagen". Ontario Newsroom, March 13. <https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1002817/canada- and-ontario-welcome-historic-investment-from-volkswagen> Accessed September 2024. 5 Government of Ontario (2023). "Ontario Strengthening Competitiveness to Attract Investment". Ontario Newsroom, February 22. <https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/ 1002745/ontario-strengthening- competitiveness-to-attract-investment>. Accessed September 2024. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 71 of 328 19 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 4.3 shows the location of the manufacturing lands as "Industrial Development", 75% of which was part of the Municipality of Central Elgin before annexation. The annexation included Ron McNeil Line (County Road 52) between Highbury Avenue (CR 30) and Yarmouth Centre Road to the City of St. Thomas. Significant traffic impacts to the County's road network are anticipated from the battery cell plant and related businesses, such as an influx of traffic on County roads for commuters to and from the battery cell plant, an influx of commercial vehicle traffic, and transportation of dangerous goods to and from the plant, as discussed in Section 7.2. 4.2.2 Other Adjacent Municipalities Other adjacent municipalities, from west to east, are as follows: • Municipality of Chatham -Kent (single -tier); • Middlesex County- - Municipality of Middlesex Centre (adjacent to Elgin County); — Municipality of North Middlesex; — Municipality of Southwest Middlesex (adjacent to Elgin County); — Municipality of Thames Centre (adjacent to Elgin County); — Township of Adelaide Metcalfe; — Township of Lucan Biddulph; — Township of Strathroy-Caradoc; — Village of Newbury; • City of London (single -tier); • County of Oxford- - City of Woodstock; — Town of Ingersoll; — Town of Tillsonburg (adjacent to Elgin County); — Township of Blandford-Blenheim; — Township of East Zorra-Tavistock; — Township of Norwich; — Township of South-West Oxford (adjacent to Elgin County); — Township of Zorra; and • Norfolk County (single -tier). Ensuring strong transportation connectivity between the County's many communities and with neighbouring communities, especially St. Thomas and London as important economic centres, is a key objective in developing the County of Elgin TMP. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 72 of 328 20 E ilia( bum . ........ . ... .......... .. .... . 2 ta ter rr co rL (y E . ......... . " , p IP ui 2 7 m >, 2 2 '91 Do cm LL Cl 4cyL 0- , . ... .. .... . ..... .. ..... . . ..... ...... �ld �I e.; � ( J^ � ,... i Ir � e�,➢ ' Ike'% RJ. ..... ..... 111�10 ... . ......... . .... . .. ... I �1.. W,(,P,f)j .... ... . H II X/ �V "I- W I <j fp -1 Y IA N1, le I, Ay p�1 It% ot a yry 015 CD _c_— E 0 ,t= cn C-4 CD C-4 CD CD X CD CD CD- 0 CD- U) 0 0 CD 2) m U) C) m >1 E u) 00- _c-_ U) F— E m ..-; U) 0 _c_- F— U) CD CD E E CD- 0 CD > CD CD Cl CD E CD - CD CD CD- -FD 04 co N m 4- 0 m TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 4.3 Indigenous Nations and Communities The duty to consult directs the project team to identify and engage with nearby Indigenous communities that may have an interest in County transportation plans, policies and projects, and who may be affected by or may wish to help shape the transportation plans and policies that will be developed as part of the TMP. The County of Elgin recognizes the importance of collaborating with Indigenous Nations and communities. Policy 12.14 of the 2024 Official Plan states that the County will: • Create, in collaboration with area Indigenous communities and local municipalities, an engagement protocol to be applied when engaging and coordinating with Indigenous communities on planning matters; • Have regard for the consultation protocols of Indigenous communities that have traditional territory in the County when engaging on planning matters or public works projects; and • Engage with Indigenous communities and consider their interests when identifying, protecting, and managing cultural heritage resources and archaeological resources, planning for sustainability and climate change, and the Natural System. Three First Nations border the northern boundary of Elgin County and can be seen in the map shown in Exhibit 4.1: • Chippewas of the Thames First Nation is comprised of Chippewas of the Thames First Nation 42, which has a total population of 988 as of 2021.6 • Munsee-Delaware Nation is comprised of Munsee-Delaware Nation 1, which has a total population of 161 as of 2021.6 • Oneida Nation of the Thames is comprised of Oneida Nation of the Thames 41, which has a total population of 2,183 as of 2021.E The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks has also identified Indigenous Nations and communities that may have an interest in the County of Elgin TMP. In addition to the Indigenous Nations that share a boundary with Elgin County, the following communities were also contacted to advise of the study and to invite participation in the planning process: • Aamjiwnaang First Nation; • Bkejwanong (Walpole Island First Nation); 6 Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. First Nation Profiles. <https://fnp-ppn.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca/fnp/Main/Index.aspx?lasng=eng> Accessed September 2021. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 74 of 328 22 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Caldwell First Nation; • Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point; and • Eelunaapeewii Lahkeewiit (Delaware Nation or Moravian of the Thames). With the exception of Bkejwanong, all aforementioned First Nations (including those than share a boundary with Elgin County) are part of the Southern First Nations Secretariat. Consultation with Indigenous communities is further detailed in a separate report, Phase /: Engagement Summary. 4.4 Physical Geography Elgin County covers 1,843 square kilometres in land area and is largely defined by its rural -agricultural landscape and its remarkable Lake Erie shoreline. The County has four ports along the Lake Erie shore: Port Glasgow, Port Stanley, Port Bruce and Port Burwell. Each has marinas for small watercraft as well as public beaches. These represent important recreational areas and tourism generators, together with provincial parks, conservation areas and other campgrounds. Elgin County lies within the Lake Erie Basin and the County has many tributaries that drain into Lake Erie. Notable water resource systems include, from west to east: the Talbot Creek Watershed, Kettle Creek Watershed, Catfish Creek Watershed and Big Otter Creek Watershed. Elgin County also lies within the Lower Thames Valley Watershed, and the Thames River (which drains into Lake St. Clair to the west) defines the northwestern border of the County. Each of these watersheds encompass countless more creeks, which have helped to preserve the unspoiled Carolinian forests found throughout the County. The Carolinian Zone is the most diverse and fragile ecoregion of Canada,' and conservation of this rich natural heritage system is an important consideration for any transportation infrastructure or other development in the County. While these waterways are a rich natural asset to the County, they also represent barriers or challenges to transportation, and necessitate the building and maintenance of bridges and culverts to accommodate road, rail and active transportation infrastructure. Carolinian Canada. <https://caroliniancanada.ca/about> Accessed September 2021. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 75 of 328 23 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 4.5 Population 4.5.1 Population Distribution and Densities Exhibit 4.4 summarizes the population, land area and population density for each of the County's lower -tier municipalities. A map of the population density of the Elgin Census Division, including the County of Elgin and the City of St. Thomas, is shown in Exhibit 4.5. Six of the seven municipalities are relatively similar in land area and are primarily rural. The exception is Aylmer, which is primarily urban and represents just 0.34% of the County's land area but holds 15% of the County's population. Exhibit 4.4: Elgin County Population, Land Area and Population Density by Lower -Tier Municipality Source: Statistics Canada 2021 Census of Population (no undercoverage estimate) mmnf arr ards,Co" Tw Page 76 of 328 24 f NO o kk oo "T k Sk, S' ui E U) LO E 04 U) 0 (D U) 0 U) co N m 4— O 0 rl— 0 rl— _0 U) (D 0) m 0 ..0 (D U) 0 U) 0 E (D U) .U) 0 U) U) (D 0 U) cv CD_ cv U) F_ 0 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 4.5.2 Age of Population Exhibit 4.6 shows the age distribution of the population in Elgin County as of 2021 and compares it to age distributions of the City of St. Thomas and of the Province of Ontario. The following age characteristics can be seen in Elgin County as of 2021. • More young children: Elgin County has a higher proportion of youth up to age 19 than the Ontario average. Elgin County rural and small- town atmosphere, and lower housing costs compared to larger urban areas, among other reasons, make it attractive for smaller families. Old -order Mennonite and Amish populations (section 4.5.3) in the County also tend have larger families. • Fewer young and middle-aged adults: Like many rural/small-town communities, Elgin County has a lower proportion of young and middle-aged adults, those aged 20 to 54, compared to the Ontario average. Young and middle-aged adults often relocate to larger urban areas for the post -secondary education, jobs and career opportunities that they provide. Large urban areas also tend to provide a range of housing options and other means of transportation besides personal automobiles, which can be helpful for younger and older adults. • More older adults and young families: Elgin County has a higher proportion of older adults aged 55-79 than the Ontario average. While many of these have aged in place, others have moved here to get away from the busy lifestyles of larger urban areas as they wind down their working years. • Fewer older seniors: Elgin County has a lower proportion of adults aged 80 and over. Among other reasons to move to urban areas, older seniors may no longer be able to drive, and transportation alternatives to driving are limited in Elgin County. The average age of Elgin County residents, 41.5 years,8 is very similar to that of the province, 41.8 years, as of 2021. 8 The average age of Elgin County is calculated by subtracting the population -weighted average age of St. Thomas Census Subdivision. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 78 of 328 26 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 4.6: Population Distribution by Age Cohort, 2021: Elgin County, St. Thomas and Ontario ty 55-59 cu 50-54 45-49 0 40-44 0 0 35-39 30-34 25-29 20-24 15-19 10-14 5-9 0-4 0% 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 6% 7% 8% 9% Proportion of Population Data Source: Statistics Canada Census of Population for Elgin County CD, 2021 (data calculated by subtracting St. Thomas Census Subdivision) AAA A/ arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 79 of 328 27 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin The age distribution has shifted considerably in recent years: while the population of Elgin County increased 5% overall between 2006 and 2021, the population aged 65 and older increased 55% (from 6,600 to 10,200). The population aged 35 to 49 has decreased by 20%, as shown in Exhibit 4.7. The closure in 2011 of the Ford St. Thomas Assembly Plant, a major employer for the area meant that a portion of working -age adults, some with young families, needed to relocate for other employment. Exhibit 4.7: Population by Age Group 2006 to 2021, Elgin County I off 0 5,000 cu C) W mix MVie. fz r.M1911 Age Group Data Source: Statistics Canada Census of Population for Elgin County CD, 2021 (data calculated by subtracting St. Thomas Census Subdivision) This aging population trend has been expected to continue, as indicated in Exhibit 4.8, though new major employment opportunities in the area will again also attract new working -age adults and their families to Elgin County. The TMP must consider the special needs of an aging population and look to develop solutions that allow residents to maintain their mobility as they age. Improving walkability and transit access can help residents maintain their high quality of life and support their ability to age in place. Providing transportation alternatives for youth and young adults may also help make it more feasible for them to remain in the County as they become established in their professions. mmnf arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 80 of 328 28 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 4.8: Elgin County Age Distribution, 2021 and 2051 RM i (io-) � 91._) _ 9 9) 94 F 85 89 7 7Ad �19 -. J✓'silo pMrMuI,, �;."_� - d A`�) f��MC0�1116K(ff�1��ti�01�177�11�1��liS�;t��1�187�1111�(fR�N�(��OM�hldl�llffl�� a0-.yy' �� f� � CN. 1M9 �pI��I �Ip1�I^I.Y�IIpIIpryryIry18 40 44 25 21) Ill➢i IllyVlll� �fliuulp�((lilUlilU�l��l l�� VIUIUVIIIUVwO r. m — �"� U1V�fU>UIUU,�UI16fi)lh��f tic '_'?1d 7 5, 7' ��a?l�allll��ra�l��rrRffffffffrrUrr4'r0�ffffffffffrrrrr�Gla��rrRfffffffff rrO�rR�rrr��rrrrrrrrrrrlrr� U.) -b9 �11111�(f(0!llI111111��dlllllllllllrll!lll�df((l(h �1111�1�� ld(1111�! Source: Population, Housing and Employment Forecasts and Associated Land Needs Analysis (Hemson - February 18, 2022), Figure 13 4.5.3 Unique Population Groups The transportation Vision of the County of Elgin TMP (Section 3.2) includes inclusivity, which necessitates consideration of the transportation needs of the diversity of its population. A unique characteristic of Elgin County is that it is home to Old -Order Mennonite and Amish communities, traditionalist Christian church fellowships who generally limit the use of modern technology —for example preferring to travel by horse and buggy rather than by motorized vehicles or bicycle. This results in unique transportation needs for travel between communities. (There are also less -traditional Mennonites in the area who do not place the same limitations on technologies.) mAm ar-r a d'S,Co" Tw Page 81 of 328 29 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin As of 2021, the Amish population in the Aylmer area is approximately 650 people.9 These are in three districts or communities east of Aylmer. There are also Mennonite communities based around several Mennonite churches located eastern Elgin County in or near Aylmer. Innovative means of supporting these populations as they travel on or alongside County roads should be explored. Elgin County also has an influx of hundreds of migrant seasonal agricultural workers from other countries in the spring through fall months. These temporary residents typically do not have access to personal vehicles for travel. They could especially benefit from the availability of transportation alternatives such as transit services or active transportation networks for travel around the county. 4.5.4 Population Growth in the County and Vicinity Elgin County is a progressive and growing community that attracts young families, business owners and retirees alike to enjoy a small-town or rural lifestyle in towns, villages and countryside. Meanwhile the County's proximity to St. Thomas and to London also expands access to goods, services and employment and education opportunities. Historically, housing costs in Elgin County have been lower than in neighbouring areas, which also increases the County's attractiveness to potential new residents. The anticipated St. Thomas battery cell plant and potential indirect employment will accelerate growth and attract workers to settle in Elgin County. To facilitate this growth, the government of Ontario has designated the former St. Thomas Psychiatric Hospital property, in the Municipality of Central Elgin south of the City of St. Thomas, for future residential development. This will be a major housing development that will add an estimated 10,000 residents by 2034 to the Municipality's population. A map of the provincially designated residential development in Central Elgin and the electric vehicle battery cell plant in St. Thomas was shown previously in Exhibit 4.3. Exhibit 4.9 presents population projections for Elgin County, the City of St. Thomas and adjacent Census Divisions for 2034, 2044 and 2054, corresponding to the TMP's medium -term, long-term and horizon planning years. 9 Burdge and Donnermeyer (2021). "Amish Population in the United States by State and County, 2021." <http://groups.etown.edu/amishstudies/files/2021/08/Amish-Pop-2021_by-state-and- county.pdf> Accessed September 2021. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 82 of 328 30 U) LU ::D LU o Q 0 p J ao � Z W Q 4- NO 0 C W Z Z CL O LU O �= Q U O ::D 0 a--0 cn w am Cn Z cM a Q Q- = N h � � M11111111111111 �1I 8II �s 0 E��, 0 �Qm cm CD o QU)U) CD- CDm >,(D o- U) pj � Q o 0 U) V� � Nx m oN Uo"a) 0_ O J LJJ cG p 2 i N V Q C O O cli O N a- 0)N N (B Q N O 5 U) J M CL _ - QO � � O a) N to .V CV N a' °� O o U- U) U- cm o��o-0 N U) o LO O O -Q U) Oco D O 0 D 0 N ¢In m O V to N O cG N O U (v W Q-.o U)� 0 0) M X p o -� 00 o O U) -� O 0 CD �" o o m a o C o 0 _ O 0 CD- U)> �' E O O= o N N Q � (B CO Q to U U ot$ LL � � >, �0 CD C) 70 cn � o -� m � CD U aD � Cn m - S s- N Q O O N Q o s -m Mcoc�� 0o CD CD �- O M (D yg LU N N Co CDCL O N— O N O N O N N= 'QN O O a)V U)-� Q CV O N ..0.� C N N" N U) N m O �� N to i N M s_ v-o O i C a) CU N O N to O N m O O C- ) �� m O .Q J CV N v- E i 0 C)0 U 0 i U 0 N O iFb Q i 1— a� U) o -o Q n O o V( VLJ N n O p 0-c-- CL � Z CD- O E 0>- O E COD- -,o U v 0)O CDL TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Elgin County is expected to grow by 44% from 54,700 residents in 2024 to approximately 78,560 residents in 2054. The County of Elgin Official Plan (2024) projected that most of the population growth will occur primarily within Tier 1 settlement areas. The growth is anticipated to be distributed across the County as follows: • Growth in Central Elgin will be most robust, increasing 96% from approximately 14,600 in 2024 to almost 28,700 2054, the future residential development on the former hospital lands accounting for over 70% of the growth; • Growth in Aylmer and Malahide will be strong with 35% and 31 % growth from 2024 to 2054, respectively; • Growth in the Municipality of West Elgin, more distant from the St. Thomas -area developments is anticipated to be relatively low; at 7% growth to 2054; and • The remaining municipalities (Dutton Dunwich, Southwold and Bayham) will experience moderate growth in the range of 19 to 24% by 2054. Meanwhile, the City of St. Thomas is anticipated to increase 75% in population, adding over 35,000 new residents from 2024 to 2054. Adjacent Middlesex Census Division (which includes the City of London) and Oxford County are also anticipated to see strong growth-55% and 53% growth to 2054, respectively. These adjacent municipalities will continue to be important centres of employment and other activities for Elgin County residents in the future, and will also be home to workers at the growing area industries. Elgin County road network improvements and may be needed to accommodate the strong growth anticipated in Elgin County and vicinity. An increasingly multi - modal transportation system, with increasing provision of alternative travel options to the car, such as public transit services and cycling infrastructure, will also help accommodate this growth in an efficient and responsible manner. 4.6 Economy 4.6.1 Total Employment Exhibit 4.10 summarizes year 2021 total employment by municipality within the County and compares it to the population. Approximately 15,700 jobs are located in Elgin County as of 2021, with the Municipality of Central Elgin and the Town of Aylmer having close to half of total jobs in the County between them. A high ratio of jobs to resident population indicates the possibility of shorter work trips to workplaces close to home. For Elgin County, this ratio is 30%. Compared to a labour force rate of approximately half of the population, this indicates that there is a net out -commuting from the County, largely to the Cities of St. Thomas mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 84 of 328 32 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin and London. In the Town of Aylmer, where the employment/population ratio is closer to one half, there is a small net in -commuting of workers. The commuting flows are further described in Section 7. Exhibit 4.10: Employment (by Place -of -Work) and Population in Elgin County Data Source: Population, Housing and Employment Forecasts and Associated Land Needs Analysis (Hemson - February 18, 2022); includes 2021 Census undercount estimate 4.6.2 Employment by Industry The employment base in Elgin County is strong and diverse, with the top five employment sectors for jobs within the County as of 2016 as follows 10: • Manufacturing (17%); • Health care and social assistance (11 %); • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting (10%); • Retail trade (9%); and • Construction (8%). Agriculture, tourism and developing manufacturing and logistics industries are important drivers of the County's economy, and the County road network and Provincial highway system provide convenient access for visitors and connect industries to broader markets. The County benefits from close proximity to major employment markets and economic regions, notably St. Thomas and London, and has access to skilled labour and post -secondary institutions. Important regional centres include the Ontario Police College located in Malahide, and St. Thomas Municipal Airport 10 County of Elgin (2020). Life is Beautiful in Elgin County, citing Statistics Canada (2016) <https://www.progressivebynature.com/sites/default/files/editor_media/Elgin%20County%2OCommunit y%20Profile%20-%20FINAL%202018.pdf>. mmnf arr ards,Co" Tw Page 85 of 328 33 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin located Central Elgin. Other important institutions located in St. Thomas, such as Fanshawe College St. Thomas/Elgin Regional Campus and St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital, contribute to the County's appeal of a good place to live and do business. The County of Elgin Official Plan (2024) directs locations of economic activity and new development to existing settlement areas, while permitting rural industrial and commercial growth as outlined in the Plan. Major generators of major goods movement in the County are also important considerations. Of particular note, the Green Lane Landfill for the City of Toronto is located at the north end of the Township of Southwold near Highway 401 representing a major trip destination for commercial vehicle refuse carriers. Agricultural farms as well as resource extraction from various aggregate sites throughout the County generate considerable commercial goods movements and depend on an efficient County road network to support the industry. The former Ford St. Thomas Assembly plant, located in Talbotville within the Township of Southwold and northwest of the City of St. Thomas, represented a key employment opportunity for the region. This site had been in operation from 1967 to 2011, employing thousands of workers from the area. The plant was demolished in the following years, with the property ready for sale in 2019. The 248-hectare site was purchased in Summer 2021 by Broccolini, and Amazon opened a fulfillment centre on the site in October 2023. NUIIf°° C"TUIII III IN The manufacturing industry in the County plays a significant role in the economy as it accounts for 17.4% of employment, compared to 8.9% in Ontario and 8.0% in Canada.10 The County has a successful history in manufacturing machinery, food and beverage products, plastics, rubber and wood products, and transportation equipment. Major generators of goods movement in the County include the following manufacturing industries: McAsphalt Industries Ltd., Steelway Building Systems, Ontario Plants Propagation, Rem -Tech Industries, and North Star Windows and Doors. IIIIII C U L"TU Illllf;;;;; Agriculture is a major contributor to the economy of Elgin County. Its success as one of the most successful growing regions in Canada is supported by rich soil fertility, a long growing season and skilled farmers. More than 50% of farming operations in Elgin County are oilseed and grain farming, followed by cattle fencing and farming at 10%. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 86 of 328 34 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 4.11 shows the diversity and distribution of agricultural land uses in the County, with corn, soybean, ginseng, winter wheat and other vegetables being important commodities grown in the County. Pasture (land used for grazing) is also a prominent land use that contributes to the economy of the County. The County's agribusiness industry, comprising nearly 1,500 farms, relies on the transportation system for goods distribution to send products to markets and processors. New technologies are being developed and adopted for food processing, alternative fuel generation, greenhouse production, organic farming and aquaculture. The TMP will consider how to support agribusinesses while managing the movement of freight transport and farm equipment throughout Elgin County. Elgin County is a seasonal tourist destination, receiving approximately 46,000 annual visitors, with peak season from May to September." Tourism is a vital industry that supports a variety of direct and indirect employment opportunities. The County offers visitors a peaceful getaway to scenic shorelines and waterways, conservation areas, quaint hamlets, cultural heritage sites and other recreational activities. Key tourism activities and destinations include cycling, hiking, museums, wineries, local main streets and agri-business ventures. Elgin Arts Trail connects visual arts and performing arts attractions across the County. Savour Elgin is a culinary trail that extends throughout the County and highlights restaurants, farms, wineries, and other local culinary attractions. The Port Stanley Terminal Rail also operates seasonally to travel between Port Stanley and St. Thomas. Tourism initiatives are directed toward areas with an existing tourism base including ports, downtown main streets, and recreational and agricultural areas. Ensuring an efficient and connected road network, as well as travel options to and from recreational areas, will be important to continuing to draw visitors to the area. The TMP will strive to respond to the transportation needs of residents as well as visitors to the County and look to enhance the tourism experience through different modes of transportation, prioritizing road improvements to key tourism destinations. 11 County of Elgin (2018): Life is Beautiful in Elgin County. <https://www.simplystated.ca/wp- content/uploads/2018/12/Elgin_County_Profile_2018.pdf> Accessed October 2024. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 87 of 328 35 R 60 ED TZ CID N (Y) 4- 0 CID CID a) TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 4.6.3 Elgin County Labour Force In 2021, the labour force residing in Elgin County, whether their work locations be within the County or elsewhere, totalled 26,380 people aged 15 and over, representing a high participation rate of over half (50.8%) of the County population. The top five employment sectors by industry for the Elgin County labour force as per the 2021 Census are the following: • Manufacturing (16%); • Construction (12%); • Health care and social assistance (12%); • Retail trade (9%); and • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting (8%). The top five sectors by occupation in Elgin County labour force as per the 2021 Census include the following: • Trades, transport and equipment operators (27%); • Sales and service (20%); • Business, finance and administration (13%); • Education, law and social, community and government services (9%); and • Manufacturing and utilities (8%). 4.6.4 Economic Growth Exhibit 4.12 summarizes projected employment growth in Elgin County from 2021 to 2051. Over this 30-year period, employment is anticipated to grow by 47% to over 23,200 jobs, with the largest growth taking place in the Township of Southwold (notably the conversion of the Ford lands to the Amazon facility). There is an opportunity for a larger proportion of commuting trips to remain within the County, as well as greater in -commuting to the County. Meanwhile, the Cities of St. Thomas and London will continue to be major employment centres for Elgin County residents. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 89 of 328 37 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 4.12: Projected Place -of -Work Employment Growth in Elgin County Data Source: Population, Housing and Employment Forecasts and Associated Land Needs Analysis (Hemson - February 18, 2022), Table 10 At the broader scale, a growing regional manufacturing economy will be supported with the development of the Volkswagen battery cell plant in St. Thomas. The planned 150-hectare electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility on the east side of St. Thomas is expected to generate significant employment once completed in 2027—up to 3,000 direct jobs and 30,000 indirect jobs.12 This will result in sustained employment opportunities for Elgin County residents, impacting travel patterns on nearby County roads and Provincial highways. 12 Government of Ontario Newsroom (April 2023). Volkswagen's New Electric Vehicle Battery Plant Will Create Thousands of New Jobs. <https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/ 1002955/volkswagens-new- electric-vehicle-battery-plant-will-create-thousands-of-new-jobs> Accessed September 2024. �nmm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 90 of 328 38 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 5 Transportation System Overview The transportation system in Elgin County includes a network of roads, railways, cycling infrastructure (multi -use trails and paved shoulders), airports and more. Exhibit 5.1 shows the locations of many of these elements. This section provides an overview of various elements of the transportation system with a focus on jurisdiction, while a detailed mode -by -mode review is presented in Sections 8 through 10. The County of Elgin TMP will focus on roads and other transportation infrastructure and services under County jurisdiction, while considering the impacts and interactions with other transportation system elements. 5.1 Road Network The road network in Elgin County serves all motorized vehicle modes, and is also used by other modes such as cycling, walking, and horse and buggy, where feasible. Each road is managed by one of three levels of government: the Province, the County (upper -tier municipality) or Local Municipal Partner (lower - tier municipality). Exhibit 5.1 identifies roads in Elgin County by jurisdiction. 5.1.1 Provincial Highways The Province is responsible for three highways in the County: Highways 3, 4 and 401. Highway 401 is a major multi -lane controlled -access highway and critical provincial trade corridor running diagonally through west Elgin County. The highway provides convenient connections west as far as the Canada -US border in Windsor/Detroit. To the east, Highway 401 also serves as a key connection to London, Woodstock and beyond. The County's strategic location along Highway 401 greatly benefits manufacturing and transportation and logistics industries. There are two provincially -owned carpool lots near Highway 401 interchanges east of London and in close proximity to Elgin County: • Veterans Memorial Parkway and Bradley Avenue; and • Middlesex Road 73. North of Elgin County, there is also a provincial carpool lot at Highway 402 and Middlesex Road 2 (Longwoods Road). mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 91 of 328 39 77' u KM Q m Ri. t4 6E m Z, LQ 49 pi Tj Cc Cc F. no V a, R.a- 0 O O E !E _0 75 zi co (\A m U) 4-- 0 0 (\A 0') (D o 0) m f 0 U) U) m LU U) m E 0 -c-- (6to F- r TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin The two other Provincial highways in Elgin County are arterial highways: • Highway 4 runs north -south and connects Talbotville to the City of London boundary. Within the City of London, Highway 4 continues as Colonel Talbot Road and is the responsibility of the City. • Highway 3 runs east -west beginning at the Highway 4/County Road 4/County Road 3 intersection in Talbotville, east through St. Thomas and Aylmer and continues east through Tillsonburg and beyond as far as the Canada -US border at Fort Erie. Improvements by the Province are underway along Highways 3 and 4 to improve connectivity between Highway 401 and the St. Thomas battery cell plant development, as discussed in Section 6.1.6. 5.1.2 County Roads The County of Elgin is responsible for a network of roads that connect settlement areas within the County and serve a broader connectivity function. Roads under County jurisdiction can be seen in Exhibit 5.1. 5.1.3 Local Municipal Roads The remaining public roadways in the County of Elgin that are not Provincial or County responsibility are the responsibility of the County's local partner municipalities. However, the provision of sidewalks alongside County roads is the responsibility of lower -tier municipalities, as stated in the Province's Municipal Act, 2001. 5.1.4 County Bridges on Local Municipal Roads The County is also responsible for the following nine bridges on local municipal roads, in addition to bridges on County roads: • B07 Fleming Creek, McPherson Road in West Elgin; • B16 Lings, Southminister Bourne in Southwold; • B23 Fulton, Fulton Bridge Line in Southwold; • B26 Jamestown, Jamestown Line in Central Elgin; • B27 Gillets, Sparta Line in Central Elgin; • B30 McGinnis, Thompson Line in Central Elgin; • B31 Harkness, Willsie Bourne in Central Elgin; • B42 Dingle Street, Dingle Street in Aylmer; and • B46 Edison Drive, Edison Drive in Bayham. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 93 of 328 41 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin The TMP study includes a review of the jurisdiction of the County bridges on local roads to determine whether continued County investment in maintaining these bridges is justified. 5.1.5 Transfers of Road Jurisdiction The TMP study includes developing and applying a County Road rationalization framework to provide guidance for potential reallocation of roads between the County and its Local Municipal Partners, under Phase III of the study. Ultimately, this will help ensure that the County is better positioned to focus on roads that genuinely serve a County interest, and support anticipated north -south connectivity between St. Thomas and the City of London. The following exerts from the Municipal Act, 2001 provide context regarding the transferring of roads by an upper -tier municipality: • 52 (1) An upper -tier municipality may add a lower -tier highway, including a boundary line highway, to its highway system from any of its lower -tier municipalities. • 52 (4) An upper -tier municipality may remove a highway, including a boundary line highway, from its system. The following jurisdictional transfers of roadways within Elgin County have taken place since the 1980s: • A number of local municipal roads were transferred to the County in the 1980s. • Several provincial highways were downloaded to County jurisdiction in the 1990s: Highways 3, 4, 19, 73, 74 and 76. This increased considerably the extent of the County road network and resources needed to maintain the road network. • County Road 47 in Malahide was transferred to the County in the early 2000s. • In 2016, the Township of Southwold requested that Wonderland Road be transferred to the County due to significant increase in traffic volume after the Highway 401-Wonderland Road interchange was completed. The total 3.53-km length of Wonderland Road was transferred to the County of Elgin and became County Road 29, while just over 10 km of low -volume County roads were downloaded to the Township of Southwold (Mill Road, Magdala Road and Southdel Drive). Most recently, Ron McNeil Line (County Road 52) became part of the City of St. Thomas between Highbury Avenue (County Road 30) and Yarmouth Centre Road as part of the municipal boundary adjustment in March 2023 (described in Section 4.2.1). �A/wA/ arr a d'S,C0" Tw Page 94 of 328 42 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 5.2 Active Transportation There is an increasing desire to encourage and facilitate active transportation (walking and cycling) in the County through increasingly active -transportation - friendly infrastructure and policies. This includes a popular route from London to Port Stanley In accordance with the Municipal Act, 2001, the provision, construction and maintenance of sidewalks along upper -tier municipal roads is the responsibility of Local Municipal Partners. However, where active transportation infrastructure takes the form of paved shoulders along County roads, it is County responsibility. A major component of the trail network in Elgin County is the Trans -Canada Trail, which exists as a system of roadways throughout the County. Routes designated as the Trans -Canada Trail are owned and operated locally, but the non-profit group Trans Canada Trail that raises funds from individuals, corporations and all levels of government for the continued development of the trail. 5.3 Passenger Transit The County of Elgin does not currently operate public transit services. Because of challenges to the economic feasibility of providing public transit services — lower population densities and longer distances involved in trips to, from and within rural areas —and the resulting lack of travel options, driving is the predominant travel mode in the County. A number of passenger transit options currently operate outside of County jurisdiction and serve County residents with services directly within Elgin County or in close proximity. These include the following: • Four -Counties Community Transportation Service; • Railway City Transit is branded as Local Motion, and is operated by the City of St. Thomas; • T:GO (Tillsonburg Transit); • Middlesex County Connect; • VIA Rail; • Intercity Bus; • Flixbus; • Rider Express; • Onex Bus; • Red Arrow; and mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 95 of 328 43 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Megabus (operated by Badder Bus or Trailways). Service provision for the above are described in Section 10. The Port Stanley Terminal Rail is a heritage railway that provides weekend passenger rail service seasonally between Port Stanley and St. Thomas, described in Section 4.4.2. The TMP will explore the potential for implementing innovative public transit options in the County, and a Transit Feasibility Analysis will identify key areas for transit connections within the County and to neighbouring municipalities. The analysis will look to recommend priority areas for pilot projects, transit policies and service partnerships. 5.4 Rail While railways are outside of County jurisdiction, the TMP study will investigate strategies to support freight rail transport and protect for the current and future movement of people and goods by rail. 5.4.1 Rail Freight Freight rail lines by carrier in the Elgin County area could be seen earlier in Exhibit 5.1. Elgin County includes active rail track of both Federal Class I railways: Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway Limited (CPKC, formerly CPR). The active freight rail carriers operating within Elgin County include the following: • Canadian National Railway (CN) operates directly on its Talbot Spur between St. Thomas and the CN main track in London; and • Ontario Southland Railway (OSR), an independent short line operator, provides freight service on the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway (CPKC) St. Thomas subdivision between St. Thomas and the CPKC main track at Woodstock. Abandoned railway lines in the County include the following: • The CN spur line between St. Thomas and Delhi (CN Cayuga Spur) was operated by St. Thomas and Eastern Railway Co. until December 2013. Ontario Southland Railway provided interim service on the line until April 2020. The South -Central Ontario Region Economic Development Corporation (SCOR EDC), a regional municipal partnership, presented to Elgin County Council in January 2021 on issues facing the region related to the discontinuance of the Cayuga Short Line Rail. SCOR EDC is leading work with a short line rail provider to mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 96 of 328 44 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin develop a business case/feasibility study on the re -start of rail operations on the Cayuga Subdivision. • CN's Payne's subdivision operated from St. Thomas west to Glencoe until 2006. • The former Canadian Southern Railway (CASO) includes a former rail line running from St. Thomas westerly to Amherstburg. CASO was purchased jointly by CPR and CN in 1985, primarily due to their interest in other CASO assets. The portion of the former CASO line through Elgin County has been abandoned since that time. 5.4.2 Passenger Rail The privately -owned Port Stanley Terminal Rail Inc. provides seasonal passenger service on the historic tracks of the London and Port Stanley Railway, connecting from St. Thomas to Port Stanley. The scenic excursions are currently offered three times a day on weekends and holidays in late March and from May to December. It carries approximately 25,000 riders in total each season. It is operated with the assistance of local volunteers.13 5.5 Airports St. Thomas Municipal Airport is operated by the City of St. Thomas but is located within the Municipality of Central Elgin east of St. Thomas along Highway 3. The airport provides charter services, but no scheduled commercial flights. It is classified as an uncontrolled airport, meaning it is the responsibility of pilots to maintain safe arriving and departing operation.14 The airport is outside the jurisdiction of the County and not part of the scope of the TMP beyond supporting access to the airport to support its role in the region. London International Airport is the closest major commercial airport with scheduled passenger services. It is located east of the City of London urban area, about 20 kilometres north of Elgin County. 13 Port Stanley Terminal Rail. <https://www.pstr.on.ca/> Accessed September 2024. 14 City of St. Thomas. Airport FAQs. <https://www.stthomas.ca/living_here/airport/airport_fags> Accessed October 2021. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 97 of 328 45 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 6 Planning and Policy Context The County of Elgin TMP must align with existing County and Provincial policies, and is informed by the plans and policies of the County's Local Municipal Partners, as well as adjacent municipalities, to align and coordinate with these to the extent possible. These plans and policies support the development of a safe and reliable multi -modal transportation system and ensures the TMP reflects the values, concerns and initiatives in the County and conforms to direction set by the Province. This section provides an overview of policies of the following jurisdictions: • Province of Ontario; • County of Elgin; • Local Partner Municipalities; and • Adjacent Municipalities. 6.1 Provincial Policies and Initiatives The Province of Ontario provides strategic direction regarding transportation planning and has advanced policies that encourages the development of multimodal transportation options and sustainable land use development patterns. 6.1.1 Supporting Manufacturing in St. Thomas Act, 2023 On February 22, 2023, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing introduced Bill 63, St. Thomas — Central Elgin Boundary Adjustment Act, 2023 for the annexation of a portion of the Municipality of Central Elgin to the City of St. Thomas. The boundary adjustment took effect on March 2, 2023, when the Act received Royal Assent. The title of the Act was subsequently changed to the Supporting Manufacturing in St. Thomas Act, 2023 on December 4, 2023 as part of Bill 134, Affordable Homes and Good Jobs Act, 2023, and supports the efficient development of the electric vehicle battery cell plant under development in St. Thomas. All roads within the annexed area owned by the Municipality of Central Elgin or the County of Elgin were transferred to the City of St. Thomas; this includes the transfer of Ron McNeil Line (County Road 52) between Highbury Avenue (County Road 30) and Yarmouth Centre Road. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 98 of 328 46 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 6.1.2 Provincially Designated Residential Development in Central Elgin In the 2024 Ontario budget, the government announced a 3-year Site Preparation Pilot Program to repurpose surplus sites for development, including the St. Thomas Psychiatric Hospital.15 The property in Central Elgin is bordered by County Road 4, County Road 45, County Road 22, and the new Forensic Mental Health Care Hospital, as shown in Exhibit 6.1. The development is expected to have a mix of low-, medium- and high -density residential with an estimated population of 10,000 to 15,000. Impacts from this development are discussed further in Section 7.2. Exhibit 6.1: Map of Former St. Thomas Psychiatric Hospital Development Lands Source: County of Elgin (2024) 15 Government of Ontario (2024). 2024 Ontario Budget. <https://budget.ontario.ca/2024/pdf/2024- ontario-budget-en.pdf> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 99 of 328 47 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 6.1.3 Provincial Planning Statement, 2024 The Provincial Planning Statement, 2024 (PPS) was issued under the Provincial Planning Act and replaced the Provincial Policy Statement, 2020. The PPS provides policy direction to municipalities related to land use planning and development. It includes policies for managing growth, managing natural resources, environmental protection, and public health and safety. All municipal plans, including the County of Elgin TMP, must be consistent to the policy directions outlined in the PPS. Transportation planning and policy directions from the PPS that are particularly important to the development of the TMP include the following (included verbatim): Energy Conservation, Air Quality and Climate Change: 2.9.1 Planning authorities shall plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for the impacts of a changing climate through approaches that: a) support the achievement of compact, transit -supportive, and complete communities; [... ] d) promote green infrastructure, low impact development, and active transportation, protect the environment and improve air quality; and e) take into consideration any additional approaches that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build community resilience to the impacts of a changing climate. Transportation Systems: 3.2.1 Transportation systems should be provided which are safe, energy efficient, facilitate the movement of people and goods, are appropriate to address projected needs, and support the use of zero- and low- emission vehicles. 3.2.2 Efficient use should be made of existing and planned infrastructure, including through the use of transportation demand management strategies, where feasible. 3.2.3 As part of a multimodal transportation system, connectivity within and among transportation systems and modes should be planned for, maintained and, where possible, improved, including connections which cross jurisdictional boundaries. Transportation Corridors: 3.3.2 Major goods movement facilities and corridors shall be protected for the long term. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 100 of 328 48 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 3.3.4 The preservation and reuse of abandoned corridors for purposes that maintain the corridor's integrity and continuous linear characteristics should be encouraged, wherever feasible. Public Spaces, Recreation, Parks, Trails and Open Space: 3.9.1 Healthy, active, and inclusive communities should be promoted by: a) planning public streets, spaces and facilities to be safe, meet the needs of persons of all ages and abilities, including pedestrians, foster social interaction and facilitate active transportation and community connectivity [... I Coordination: 6.2.1 A coordinated, integrated and comprehensive approach should be used when dealing with planning matters within municipalities, across lower, single and/or upper -tier municipal boundaries, and with other orders of government, agencies, boards, and Service Managers including: [... ] d) infrastructure, multimodal transportation systems, public service facilities and waste management systems [... ]. 6.1.4 Connecting the Southwest: A Draft Transportation Plan for Southwestern Ontario (2020) In January 2020, the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) released Connecting the Southwest, a draft transportation plan that outlines a vision and five goals to improve transportation in the region: • Getting people moving and connecting communities, • Supporting a competitive open for business environment; • Improving safety; • Providing more choice and convenience; and • Preparing for the future. The draft Plan also notes ongoing or near -term actions under each goal, including the following that may impact the transportation network in Elgin County: • Improve intercommunity bus service: Ontario is reviewing the intercommunity bus sector and ways to better deliver services to make it easier for people to travel between communities (Action 1). • Establish a task force with representation from southwestern Ontario mayors and Indigenous chiefs as a venue to discuss transportation service needs and opportunities to better integrate transportation services in the region [... ] (Action 9). mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 101 of 328 49 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Work with municipal and federal partners to support active transportation connections, such as cycling paths and trails within and between southwestern Ontario communities and connections to transit systems [... ] (Action 12). • [... ] Ontario is exploring opportunities to provide additional commuter parking lot spaces to make it easier to carpool and connect to transit services [... ] (Action 14). • In cooperation with municipalities, Ontario will review the rules around reduced load periods for the agriculture, agribusiness and trucking industry to help cut red tape and support businesses, while protecting road infrastructure [... ] (Action 20). • Actively advancing planning and design work for Highway 401 from London to Tilbury will help make it safer by widening the highway to six lanes and installing a concrete median barrier.[...] (Action 23). • Make winter driving safer by working in partnership with private landowners to plant more and better snow hedges in areas that experience severe drifting [... ] (Action 24). • Investigate and identify priority actions to integrate different modes — rail, intercommunity bus, public transit, ridesharing, scooters, bikes — to make it easier for people in southwestern Ontario to get around and provide more options to get there [... ] (Action 34). OU"'rill °°III Il::::; "'ril::::;III IN OIN"'r III IIIO "FII NIIIf�OIII "'r"'rIION 11PL ININIIIN "'rUIIf (O N III IN ) The Province is currently building on Connecting the Southwest in preparing a long-term strategy for the southwestern Ontario region. The planning study will identify recommended longer -term actions across all transportation modes in southwestern Ontario, and the final plan is expected in 2025. SOU rill IIIf;;;;; "'rIIf;;;;; III IN O IN "'r III III O "FII NIIIf-� O III "'r "''III O N rAS1lK The Southwestern Ontario Transportation Task Force was formed in January 2021 as part of the provincial draft transportation plan, Connecting the Southwest (Action 9, above), and includes representation from upper and lower - tier municipalities, Indigenous Communities and business stakeholders in southwestern Ontario. A final report was released in September 2023, including recommendations for passenger transportation, safety, active transportation, transit, rail, air travel, ferries, and international crossings around each of the five Connecting the Southwest goals (listed above), as well as Indigenous -specific priority recommendations. While the recommendations and guidance outlined by the task force do not reflect official policy or views of the Province or Indigenous governments, the �A/wA/ arr a d'S,C0" Tw Page 102 of 328 50 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin report is intended to help inform Ontario's transportation plans and initiatives of local priorities. 6.1.5 Province -Wide Cycling Network Study (2018) The Province -Wide Cycling Network Study builds on #CycleON (2013), Ontario's 20-year strategy to help promote cycling as a viable transportation method for people of all ages and abilities. As part of #CycleON Action Plan 1.0 (2018), a province -wide cycling network and implementation plan was developed. The provincial cycling network (which will be shown later in Exhibit 9.1), will help shape the development of the County's cycling network through the TMP. An action of the #CycleON plan is to increase opportunities for cycling tourism through creating an infrastructure fund that supports rural and off -road cycling trails. 6.1.6 Highway 3 Twinning and Talbotville Bypass Preliminary Design, Detail Design and Class Environmental Assessment Study (2024) MTO undertook a Class Environmental Assessment Study to understand the travel needs along Highway 3 between Highway 4 in Talbotville and Centennial Road in St. Thomas.16 Broadly, the recommended plan includes the following: • A realigned connection between Highway 4 and Highway 3 as a new "Talbotville Bypass", shown in Exhibit 6.2, with a roundabout constructed offset to the east of Highway 4 at the new bypass, shown in Exhibit 6.3; • Widening of Highway 4 to a four -lane undivided cross-section from Clinton Line south to the new Talbotville Bypass; • Widening of Highway 3 to a four -lane median cross-section between Ron McNeil Line to the west and Centennial Avenue to the east; Specifics of this plan include the following, from west to east: • A 22.5-metre median width from Highway 4 to just west of Wellington Road, with a transition to a 15.0-m median width east to Centennial Avenue; 16 In 2020, MTO and the County of Elgin commenced a Schedule B Environmental Assessment in the Township of Southwold to determine the need for road network improvements — Wonderland Road/ Ron McNeil Line/ Ford Road/ Highway 3 Environmental Assessment Study and Preliminary Design. The study has since been superseded by the Highway 3 Twinning and Talbotville Bypass Class EA Study. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 103 of 328 51 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Partial cloverleaf interchange at Ron McNeil Line/Wonderland Road, and the closure of Ford Road with a cul-de-sac (shown in Exhibit 6.4); • Partial cloverleaf interchange at Wellington Road (County Road 25); • Twinning of Kettle Creek Bridge; • Partial cloverleaf interchange at First Avenue in St. Thomas; and • Realignment of Highway 3 to accommodate construction of a roundabout at Centennial Avenue. Exhibit 6.2: Map of Proposed Talbotville Bypass and Highway 4 Widening 401 C VlPe 0 F :..0 PJ D 0 N a Highway 401/Coloir el Talbot Road Interchange emu" �e ct � tar1C COUNTY OF ua u @:_l GIN Ln M, "raiiootvillbe I yPoee Cvw'P 3042 22-00 C� RON MCNEILI LINE Highway 4 Widening wP 3042.2!"�-0U TALBOTv'IILLE 6 EWAR _..,, yr//�4bM�M'mnnv vnnl✓a'�m�mv k` .... "nor Ac .q ... .r' y Uj + ✓', r, ,or..� YY �� f U Source: Province of Ontario, Public Information Centre 2 Display Boards: Highway 3 Twinning, Talbotville Bypass and Highway 4 Widening (November 2023, cropped) mAAA/ arr a d'S,C0" Tw Page 104 of 328 52 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 6.3: Rendering of Proposed Roundabout at Highway 4 and New Talbotville Bypass Source: Province of Ontario, Public Information Centre 2 Display Boards: Highway 3 Twinning, Talbotville Bypass and Highway 4 Widening (November 2023) Exhibit 6.4: Rendering of Proposed Interchange at Ron McNeil Line and Wonderland Road Source: Province of Ontario, Public Information Centre 2 Display Boards: Highway 3 Twinning, Talbotville Bypass and Highway 4 Widening (November 2023) AAA A/ arr a d'S,C0" Tw Page 105 of 328 53 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 6.1.7 Former Aylmer Bypass Right -of -Way Designation In August 2021, the Province removed the controlled -access highway designation from a section of land from the former Highway 3 bypass lands in St. Thomas to the east end of Aylmer. Part of the formerly designated lands are now part of the battery cell plant and surrounding industrial park in St. Thomas. While the removal of this designation means that the long -anticipated Aylmer bypass will not be built by the Province —and the challenges faced by having trucks and other vehicles traversing downtown Aylmer on Highway 3 will need to be resolved by different means —it creates growth opportunities for housing and industry and may benefit the Town of Aylmer and the Township of Malahide, as the municipalities have been reaching industrial growth limits due to a lack of developable industrial land. 6.1.8 Provincial Highway Network Plans The Province is planning the following highway projects in the vicinity of Elgin County, as indicated in Exhibit 6.5: • Highway 3 road resurfacing between St. Thomas and Aylmer (12.2 km) between 2026 and 2027; and • Widening Highway 401 from four to six lanes starting at 1.4 km west of Union Road (Elgin County Road 20) to 1.0 km west of Highway 4 (total 13.6 km) — the widening will continue to 0.7 km east of Wellington Road, outside of Elgin County; no date is specified. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 106 of 328 54 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 6.5: Ontario Highways Program Map - Expansion and Rehabilitation Projects _c Olend Construction, at a Point (9.9. bridge) 'rcrgrarn Type R�h:ak� 41��5111 Exps,rreio Construction, Along a. II(e.g. I 'rcrgrarn Type Rehab m4oaou1.0.0.0.00 E?apa,u'ion P'rrc vinciial N'i9ll',ways Source: Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (2024). Ontario Highway Programs Interactive Map. <https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontarios-highway-programs> Accessed September 2024. 6.2 County Policies and Initiatives The County of Elgin has taken a strategic effort in adopting policies and initiatives that will improve the transportation network, enabled through County- wide plans such as the Corporate Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan (2024), Official Plan (2024) and Cycling Master Plan (2014). These policy documents support the study process, guide the network development, and ensure the TMP aligns with the priorities of the County. 6.2.1 Elgin County Corporate Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan (2024) Elgin County Council adopted the Elgin County Corporate Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan report in November 2024, which replaced the previous 2020-2022 Strategic Plan. The plan outlines the new mission statement and vision statement for the County as follows: • Mission: Elgin County delivers efficient, accessible, necessary services and fosters collaborative relationships, to benefit residents, businesses and visitors. • Vision: Elgin is a welcoming, innovative, and sustainable community. We are advancing the prosperity of our county while ensuring responsible development and respecting our rural heritage. mmm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 107 of 328 55 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin The plan also identifies five strategic priorities and associated goals that set the County's directions into the future. Developing a Transportation Master Plan responds to these five strategic priorities as follows: Collaborative Engagement and Communication: The TMP will engage with the public and other stakeholder throughout the process. 2. Organizational Culture and Workforce Development: The TMP will establish guiding principle, vision statement and goals (Section 3) to guide the study process and make values -driven recommendations. 3. Service Excellence and Efficiency: The TMP will seek to identify and respond to community transportation needs, explore alternative ways to address these needs. 4. Sustainable Community Growth: The TMP will strive to help make Elgin a desirable place to access the places where people live, work and play and take into account population and employment growth in determining transportation needs. 5. Community Well-being and Inclusivity: The TMP will take into consideration the diverse needs of Elgin population and identify solutions to tackle each need, creating a healthy community. 6.2.2 County of Elgin Official Plan (2024) In May 2024, Elgin County Council adopted a new Official Plan for the County of Elgin, which replaces the previous 2013 Official Plan. The 2024 Official Plan is now under review for approval by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The 2024 Official Plan provides growth management strategies and policy direction to facilitate the growth and development of Elgin County, which is projected to grow to a population of about 62,500 by 2044, with most growth occurring in central and eastern areas of the County. The TMP will conform to the Official Plan, and land use and growth projections will help inform the transportation network development. Selected transportation -related policies are listed verbatim below. Section 3.0 Economic Development: [... ] the following objectives have been identified as they relate to economic development in the County: a) Identify and protect regionally significant employment areas, transportation corridors, and infrastructure facilities; [... ] 3.6 Protecting Strategic Transportation Corridors and Facilities Direct or immediate access to regional, provincial, and mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 108 of 328 56 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin national/international transportation corridors and facilities is a major locational consideration for large industrial users. [... ] Due to the importance of these corridors and facilities to the County's economy they will be protected from development that may negatively impact their functioning or the operation of industry. [... ] 3.15 Supporting Downtowns, Main Streets and Waterfronts A key attraction to the County for visitors is its collection of quaint and picturesque downtowns, main streets, and waterfronts [... ] a) support ongoing efforts to revitalize, improve, and restore these areas with the aim of supporting local business and attracting tourism to the County, particularly through the development of urban design guidelines and/or master plans for these areas. Section 6.0 Settlement Areas [... ] the following objectives have been identified as they relate to settlement areas in the County: a) Protect the unique small-town character of the County's settlement areas; b) Facilitate the creation of compact, complete, and pedestrian -friendly communities that provide equitable access to a range of local economic and social opportunities, centred around a vibrant main street or commercial core; [... ] 6.4 Protecting Urban Character [... ] urban character will be protected and/or enhanced by: a) Enhancing the pedestrian -friendly nature of the settlement area; [...] d) Respecting the role and primacy of the settlement area's main street or commercial core and encouraging the development and/or retention of local retail and commercial amenities; [... ] Section 8.0 Transportation and Infrastructure Systems [... ] the following objectives have been identified as they relate to the County's transportation and infrastructure systems: a) Establish an integrated transportation system that safety and efficiently accommodates various modes of transportation including automobiles, trucks, public transit, cycling, and walking; [... ] c) Encourage the development of public facilities in appropriate locations at the right time to meet the needs of present and future residents; and d) Ensure the safe and effective operation of the County's transportation and infrastructure systems, by respecting the standards, requirements, and guidelines of the authorities that operate and/or regulate these systems. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 109 of 328 57 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 8.3 Right -of -Way Widths New roads and re -constructed roads under the County's jurisdiction shall be developed to comply with the classification, function and general design standards and requirements outlined in Tables 2 and 3 of this Plan [... ] 8.8 Road Design Standards The `Elgin County Transportation Master Plan', as amended, will serve as the basis for the construction and design of county roads, including policies limiting direct access to county roads where access is available by a local road. [... ] 8.10 Public Transportation [... ] the County will support the exploration, establishment, and / or expansion of the feasibility of public transportation in the County. This includes the establishment or expansion of conventional public transportation services (local and regional), as well as on -demand micro -transit, car / bike share programmes, and other innovative forms of public transportation service delivery. 8.12 Traffic Calming The County may investigate traffic calming measures to be implemented in certain locations within the County and/or as a requirement of a development approval to promote pedestrian safety and mitigate negative effects of automobile traffic. [... ] 8.15 Pedestrian and Cycling Routes and Facilities: [... ] To plan for, and encourage walking and cycling, local municipalities are encouraged to: a) consider the provision of safe and convenient cycling and walking routes in the review of all development applications; b) require the provision of sidewalks in settlement areas, where appropriate; c) coordinate the installation of sidewalks on both sides of county roads within settlement areas; d) investigate and provide for cycling lanes wherever possible in the construction or reconstruction of roads and bridges; e) encourage and support measures which will provide for barrier -free design of pedestrian facilities; f) ensure that lands for bicycle/pedestrian paths are included with the land requirements for roads; [... ] h) ensure that all pedestrian and cycling routes are designed to be safe. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 110 of 328 58 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin E:�'�:� ►�� FT71iLa CZ•T�� The County will continue to promote and support the viability of the many ports along Lake Erie as important economic resources and locations for tourism and recreation. [... ] 8.29 Railway Operations and Land Use Compatibility The railways that traverse the County are recognized as important economic and transportation corridors and land use controls will be used to protect these corridors. [... ] 6.2.3 Corporate Asset Management Plan Transportation Network (2022) The County's Asset Management Plan (AMP, 2022) for its transportation network reviews the County road network and bridge and culvert infrastructure owned by the County. Its purpose is to demonstrate the responsible management of the asset portfolio by measuring the quality of the assets, identifying maintenance and investment requirements, and communicating and justifying funding requirements. The County road network includes 59 roads totaling 689 kilometres, 58 bridge structures and 84 culvert structures greater than 3 metres. A road network assessment conducted for the 2022 AMP concluded that the current network provides a good level of service to the residents. The AMP indicates that the County's bridge and culvert structures overall are in good condition. The AMP will help inform the TMP network development and prioritization and implementation strategy. 6.2.4 Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling Master Plan (2014) The Cycling Master Plan (2014) was developed by the Active Transportation Technical Committee comprised of Elgin -St. Thomas Public Health, the County of Elgin, the City of St. Thomas and Elgin County local municipal staff. The Cycling Master Plan built on the work completed for the Elgin -St. Thomas Active Transportation Initiative, and includes the County -wide cycling network, recommendations for cycling facility types for proposed routes, and a phasing and implementation strategy. The Vision of the Cycling Master Plan is as follows: To connect key community destinations and urban centres through a system of improved cycling opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities. The Cycling Master Plan served as the guiding document for implementation of the County -wide cycling network and includes a phased approach that identifies the short-term priority projects and the long-term build out. �A/wA/ arr ardS,CO3, w Page 111 of 328 59 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 111:..:.;;LGINI "'r. r111 1101MAS C" CILIIINI "' Ilf;;;;;lll P'LAIN Ull:- lII "' Ilf;;;;; (2020) The Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling Master Plan (2020) was updated by the County of Elgin to include recent revisions, completed projects and new proposed infrastructure. The updated plan is a key starting point for the development of TMP active transportation network development (Section 9). 6.2.5 Elgin County Trails Study (2018) The Elgin County Trails Study (2018) was prepared to guide the development of the trail network by building on existing work and enabling responsible parties to enhance trail infrastructure and improve connectivity. The vision speaks to accessibility for all residents and visitors to enjoy the natural resources and provide a diverse network of trails to connect communities and the countryside. One of the Study's recommendations is to use the proposed trail network, shown in Exhibit 6.6, as a blueprint for future network development. This proposed network, along with the Cycling Master Plan revised map, will be further reviewed in the update of the County -wide active transportation network. The following recommendations from the Study are relevant to the TMP's update of the active transportation network: • Support the repurposing of abandoned railway lines into recreational trails to interconnect communities and tourist destinations., • Explore retaining unopened road allowances in public ownership in perpetuity for potential trails development; • Continue to explore potential opportunities for trails with rails in the County on a case -by -case basis; • Consider a securement strategy by the County and local municipalities for future trail routes on lands not in public ownership; • Support the implementation of a consistent trail wayfinding identified/brand throughout the County and consider using the City of St. Thomas template with adjustments as necessary to reflect the local municipalities; • Explore collaboration between the County, Municipality of Central Elgin, Township of Southwold and Elgin Hiking Trail Club to better define and promote the Elgin Hiking Trail route and trail access points; and • Other recommendations including the use of the trail design guidelines and maintenance and risk management strategies mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 112 of 328 60 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin reported in the Study and explore pilot projects for education and outreach initiatives suggested in the Study. 6.2.6 County of Elgin Roads Plan and Policies (2009) County of Elgin Roads Plan and Policies (FIR Berry & Associates and Kirkness Consulting Inc., 2009) was developed to provide a framework for the long-range planning of the County road network. The vision for the road network was based on the following County of Elgin Corporate Goal: To build and maintain an efficient, affordable, effective and safe transportation network that accommodates the diverse needs of our communities and is able to support economic development and sustainable growth. The document includes goals, objectives and policies for the transportation network. Policies fall under ten categories: functional classification of roads, access to adjacent lands, land development, road setbacks, road system improvements, truck routes, pedestrians, bicycles, policy review and incorporation in municipal official plans. The policies within this document will be addressed with the completion of this TMP and the newly adopted County of Elgin Official Plan (2024). The following goals are applicable specifically to the development of the TMP: • To provide a safe, convenient and efficient County Road system for the movement of goods and people throughout the County; • To provide a County Road system that is complementary to and coordinated with Ontario Provincial Highways and Municipal Local Roads and provides connections between the two road systems; • To recognize the strong relationship of transportation planning and land use planning such that appropriate levels of service shall be provided to employment centres, commercial nodes and residential communities of the County that are so designated in local Office Plans as part of their respective growth management policies and practices; • To provide a County road system that is recognized as an integral part of the overall transportation system in the County, and as such, must be coordinated with other jurisdictions and modes of transportation; • To establish a program of continuing improvements to the County Road system coordinated with other jurisdictions; and • To complement the character and role of individual municipalities throughout the County in accordance with their respective Official Plans. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 113 of 328 61 T " C118, "'514 .2 9L Z I — 's 1 11. 1 R E r 70 CL E n pQr 2 m 1 CL CL 00 Lu m TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 6.2.7 Environmental Assessments The following projects with completed Municipal Class Environmental Assessments (EA) inform the state of the County Road network in the future. C IIf;;;;; IN "'r IIf;;;;; IN IN III L IIf;;;;; L I IIf;;;;; N 111 IIf;;;;; IN II III IN I Ilf;;;;; IN "'rAL Ilf-� III IIf;;;;; C "'r Ill llf;;;;; Ilf-� 0 II "'r A Schedule B Class Environmental Assessment was conducted for intersection improvements at Centennial Road and Elm Line in the Municipality of Central Elgin in an effort to accommodate existing and long-term travel demand and provide safe operation for all modes of transportation. The Recommended Plan developed as part of the EA includes a 45-m roundabout with sidewalks and a protected cycling lane. The roundabout will be centred between the Elm Line and Elm Street approaches. IIf;;;;; L II IN C U NI rY III 111 24 III IIf;;;;; L C "'r101N IIf-� 11I 11f;;;;; C "'r IIf;;;;; IN IIf IIf;;;;; IN II III IN I Ilf;;;;; IN "'r L S WIDYIII III...... Ilf III "'r (11 1l:..:.; ILI IN IIf;;;;; ) A Schedule C Class EA was conducted for road relocation for a section of County Road 24 between Martyn Line and County Road 73. The road relocation is proposed due to safety concerns regarding erosion of the existing road. The recommendations from the Environmental Study Report include a new two- lane paved road with a 30-m road allowance, similar to the existing County Road 24. The proposed road will have paved shoulders. Dexter Line will be converted to a local access road and laneways connecting local properties and the new road are proposed, as sections of Dexter Line are likely to be closed due to erosion. A new local road with a 20-m road allowance is proposed to connect Dexter Line to the new 30-m road. r U N III C III IIf- L CLASS IIf;;;;; N IIf Il:- I11 IIf;;;;; C "'r III°°III L llf;;;;; Ill llf;;;;; IF' 0 II "'r A Schedule B Class EA was conducted for the replacement of Meeks Bridge in the Township of Southwold. The single -lane bridge will be replaced with two traffic lanes, and the southern approach to the bridge will be widened. No active transportation facilities will be provided on the bridge. The intersection of Sparta Line and Roberts Line is recommended to be converted to all -way stop control. 6.3 Policies and Initiatives of Local Municipal Partners Planning policies and initiatives of the seven Local Municipal Partners provide important considerations for the County of Elgin TMP regarding proposed policies and developments to the multi -modal transportation network. Key documents were reviewed in detail for transportation strategies or policies related to the transportation network. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 115 of 328 63 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin The official plans of the lower -tier municipalities do not identify the need for new roads or widening of existing roads, unless triggered by a proposed development. These official plans are supportive of the development of trails on public or private lands for the purposes of active transportation and opportunities to explore transit connections within the region. The Central Elgin Trails Master Plan highlights the importance of integration with existing and planned routes as majority of the proposed routes are found on County roads. A full summary of the review and maps of the local transportation networks are presented in Appendix A. These include the following: • Municipality of West Elgin — West Elgin Official Plan (2023) — West Elgin Community Development Handbook — Development TIS for Proposed Elgin Business Park (2020, Rodney), Seaside Development (2012, Port Glasgow) • Municipality of Dutton Dunwich — Dutton Dunwich Strategic Plan (2023-2026) — Dutton Dunwich Official Plan (2021) • Township of Southwold — Southwold Strategic Plan (2023-2027) — Southwold Official Plan (2022) — Development TIS for Talbotville Subdivision (2018, Talbotville), 10065 Talbotville Gore Road (2015, Talbotville), Southside Group Residential Subdivision (2017, Lynhurst), Lake Line (2018, Port Stanley) • Municipality of Central Elgin — Central Elgin Strategic Plan (2019-2022) — Central Elgin Official Plan (2023) — Central Elgin 10 Years Trails Master Plan and Implementation Strategy (2017) — Central Elgin Traffic Calming Policy (2018) — Development Traffic Impact Study (TIS) for Craigholme Estates Ltd. (2021, Belmont), Little Creek West Lands (2019, Port Stanley), Kemsley Farm Subdivision (2017, Norman-Lyndale), 377 Warren Street (2020, Port Stanley), George Street/Wastell Homes (2017, Port Stanley) • Town of Aylmer — Aylmer Strategic Plan (2024-2027) mAm a"(a diaa,(.;oi ' Page 116 of 328 64 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin — Aylmer Official Plan (2020) • Township of Malahide — Malahide Strategic Plan (2023-2033) — Malahide Official Plan (2022) • Municipality of Bayham — Bayham Community Strategic Plan (2023-2026) — Bayham Official Plan (2019) 6.4 Policies and Initiatives of Adjacent Municipalities Transportation policies and initiatives of upper -tier and single -tier municipalities adjacent to Elgin County were reviewed for implications on existing and proposed transportation connections along the county boundaries and between municipalities. Traffic related to the St. Thomas electric vehicle battery cell plant and related growth will have a particularly strong impact on the County's road network. It is important that the County transportation systems consider planned updates to St. Thomas's municipal road network, as outlined in the Major Arterial Roadway Connection Municipal Class EA, Highbury Avenue Widening Class EA and other studies. For a County -wide active transportation network integrated with those of adjacent municipalities, an awareness of those municipalities' initiatives is needed; however, previous active transportation plans and networks are under review by the Cities of London and St. Thomas as they prepare their respective transportation master plan updates. The City of St. Thomas released its Transportation Master Plan in November 2021, which updated its cycling network relative to previous plans including the St. Thomas Cycling and Trails Master Plan (2020). The current plan has fewer external connections to Elgin County. The London Cycling Master Plan (CMP, 2016) proposed a potential partnership with Middlesex County and Elgin County to implement linkages along major County roads that provide connections into and out of London. The CMP also includes the goal of implementing a cycling education program, CAN -BIKE, to be delivered in Middlesex, Oxford and Elgin Counties. The City of London's ongoing Mobility Master Plan is also a key input to the TMP study. Potential TMP implications for the transit feasibility analysis include a proposed regional transit pilot between St. Thomas (now served via a Flixbus route, described in Section 10.4), County of Elgin and London, Chatham-Kent's continued support and participation in Four Counties Transit, and Oxford County's goal to promote the development of an integrated passenger rail and intercommunity bus system referred to as SouthwestLynx. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 117 of 328 65 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin A full summary of the review is presented in Appendix B. These include the following: • City of St. Thomas — St. Thomas Official Plan update (ongoing) — St. Thomas Transportation Master Plan update (ongoing) — St. Thomas Transportation Master Plan (2021) — St. Thomas Strategic Transit Plan (2020) — St. Thomas Cycling and Trails Master Plan (2017 and 2020) — Major Arterial Roadway Connection Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (2024) — Highbury Avenue Widening Class Environmental Assessment (2023) — St. Thomas Urban Area Expansion Transportation Master Plan (2008) — Traffic Impact Study for Orchard Park Meadows and Harvest Run Residential Subdivisions (2020) — Positioned for Growth: Planning Justification Report (2020) • Regional Municipality of Chatham -Kent — Regional Municipality of Chatham -Kent Transportation Master Plan (2008) — Regional Municipality of Chatham -Kent Transportation Master Plan Update (2020) — Chatham -Kent Driving Forward Transit Strategy (2020) • Middlesex County — Middlesex County Cycling Strategy (2018) • City of London — Mobility Master Plan (ongoing) — City of London 2030 Transportation Master Plan: SmartMoves (2013) — City of London Cycling Master Plan (2016) • Oxford County — Oxford County Transportation Master Plan (2024) — Oxford County Cycling Master Plan (2021) • Norfolk County — Norfolk County Integrated Sustainable Master Plan (2016) mAm a Co" Tw Page 118 of 328 66 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 6.5 Policies and Initiatives of Adjacent First Nations The Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Comprehensive Community Plan (2012-2022) outlines infrastructure goals and strategies. A transportation issue noted in the plan is the lack of a public transportation service to connect people to community facilities, events and employment opportunities. As part of the goal to upgrade and develop basic community infrastructure, the plan suggests initiating discussions with a non-profit transportation company. A community plan is currently being developed for Oneida Nation of the Thames. There is no existing or in -development plan for Munsee-Delaware Nation 6.6 Other Relevant Initiatives 6.6.1 Towards Coordinated Rural Transportation (2014) Towards Coordinated Rural Transportation (2014) was prepared for the Rural Ontario Institute and the Ontario Healthy Communities Coalition, and is a product of the Accelerating Rural Transportation Solutions initiative to share knowledge of effective models and innovations in rural regional transportation. The goal of the document is to address the disconnected nature of transportation within counties or regions with multiple transportation providers. Coordinated transportation models have potential to provide greater cost- effectiveness and greater quality of service to rural residents. The methodology to establish a coordinated transportation model is outlined in the Resource Document as follows: • Identify two or more organizations that share a common goal; • Inventory existing transportation services and key stakeholders; • Identify service demand and implementation issues and opportunities; • Assess different coordination models; • Identify the building blocks of the preferred coordination models; and • Select a preferred coordination model. The framework in Towards Coordinated Rural Transportation could inform the planning and recommendations of the transit feasibility analysis component of the TM P. 6.6.2 Southwest Community Transit Association The Southwest Community Transit Association (SCT) is a voluntary association that coordinate inter -community bus transportation in Southwest Ontario, as well Page 119 of 328 67 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin as develop best practices, identify economies of scale and provide a common platform to support long-term sustainable transit funding. The SCT functions as an advisory board, lending direction, information, and recommendations for integrating inter -community bus transportation. The County of Elgin is not currently a member. The analysis conducted as part of the TMP may include identifying gaps in the public transit system and recommending strategies that align with the County's vision and objectives. The SCT may inform the project team's analysis of needs and opportunities of inter -community bus transportation within Elgin County and surrounding areas. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 120 of 328 68 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 7 Commuting Patterns in Elgin County Understanding the travel and mobility patterns in Elgin County will support the development of transportation infrastructure and services that can serve these patterns effectively. 7.1 Census Commuting Flows, 2021 Year 2021 Census Commuting flow data was analyzed to understand how and where Elgin County residents travel to work, and where those with jobs in Elgin County travel from. Exhibit 7.1 shows the geographic distribution of commuting trips by County residents, external residents and through travel. Of the 15,470 employed residents of Elgin County with a fixed place of work outside of home (of the total employed labour force of 26,380, or 59%)17: • 39% (6,000) work within the County; • 24% (3,700) work in London; • 20% (3,100) work in St. Thomas; and • 17% (2,700) work elsewhere in Ontario. Elgin County is also the fixed workplace of 1,315 St. Thomas residents and 3,035 residents of other municipalities.'$ The distribution of workplaces shows the interconnectedness of the County both among its own local municipalities and with neighbouring municipalities. Elgin County's transportation network connects workers with their livelihoods within and outside of the County, among other vital travel needs and connections. "This Census dataset excludes those who work at home or have no fixed place of work. '$ Analysis of: Statistics Canada (2022). Commuting flow from geography of residence to geography of work by gender. Census subdivisions. <https://wwwl50.statcan.gc.ca/tl/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=9810045901> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 121 of 328 69 F 20 4— 0 4) 4-j 0 (D r 0 o c) Y) 41� 0 • 0 >i 0 >-O 0 CL o 0- 0 CL 0 CL 0 t t t I I 2z go 0 E kll E w M= ti 0 73, c au 00 V) Cq F- C) 0 ti 0 cv C) cv CC) U) N U) CD( 4-- U) 0 CD E N N 75 > (D 0) F— cv iv E E 0 C) U) U) CD 04 CD 04 0 .U) U) cv (D 0 U) Cl TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Modes of travel to work for this same Census dataset are shown in Exhibit 7.2. As a result of both the relatively long travel distances and limited alternatives to auto travel, 94% of commuting travel by Elgin County residents is carried out by car. Among auto commuting trips, 92% of commuters travel in single -occupant (driver -only) vehicles, or 86.5% of total commutes).19 This represents a significant increase from 81.5 % of commuters driving in single -occupant vehicles in 2016; ongoing Covid-19 impacts in 2021 are likely a contributing factor. The travel mode split for work trips was also analyzed by home municipality, as shown in Exhibit 7.3. The higher active transportation (e.g. walking and cycling) mode share of 7% for Aylmer residents, which is largely urban, indicates that walking and cycling becomes more viable for shorter local trips or in areas that have more compact development. The higher active transportation share in West Elgin, 9%, represents an increase from 5% in 2016, and may have been encouraged by paved shoulders along County Roads 2, 76 and 103, which had been recently installed at the time. 19 Analysis of: Statistics Canada (2022). Commuting destination by main mode of commuting, age and gender. Canada, provinces and territories, census divisions and census subdivisions. <https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=9810046201> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 123 of 328 71 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 7.2: Mode of Travel to Work by Elgin County Residents Active 'Transportation Public Transit 4.7% Other 0.2% 1. % Auto - 2+ p 7.4% Data Source: Arcadis analysis of 2021 Census Commuting destination data for residents aged 15 years and over with a usual place of work. Exhibit 7.3: Mode of Travel to Work by Residents of Local Municipalities "'Fast Elgin Dutton-Dunwich cu cu Southvwrold' 0 Central Elgin t �.7 Aylmer yhr a nn 0 0%, 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 80% 70% 80'% 00% 100°I Mode Share Auto - driver only c Auto - 2+ people Public Transit Active Transportation. Other Data Source: Arcadis analysis of 2021 Census Commuting Destination data for residents aged 15 years and over with a usual place of work. AAA A/ arr ardS,(;0,, T� Page 124 of 328 72 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 7.2 Commuting Impacts from Major Developments Two key developments are planned or underway in Elgin County and St. Thomas that will impact the County's transportation infrastructure: • Electric vehicle battery cell plant in St. Thomas; and • Provincially designated residential development in Central Elgin. This section includes estimates of the commuting flows arising from these developments and an initial assessment of the impacts on the County network. 7.2.1 Electric Vehicle Battery Cell Plant The electric vehicle battery cell plant in St. Thomas is currently under construction and planned to open in 2027. It is expected to create 3,000 on -site jobs when in operation20. In general, workers of large manufacturing facilities are more likely to live in outside municipalities and have longer commuting distances than workers in other sectors: in 2021, 49% of manufacturing employees currently working at a fixed place in St. Thomas reside within St. Thomas, while 17% lived in adjacent municipalities and 34% in areas beyond. In comparison, 57% of commuters with a fixed place of work in other industries in St. Thomas also lived in St. Thomas21 The battery cell plant is expected to encourage the growth of super commuters —people who live far away and commute long distances to work. Exhibit 7.4 shows the expected total daily commuting patterns for manufacturing in St. Thomas, for workers living outside of St. Thomas. 20 Hemson Consulting Ltd. (2023). "Update to Hemson Growth Forecasts and Land Needs Analysis Report". Memorandum to Don Shropshire. November 15. 21 Hemson Consulting Ltd. (2023) - Table 1, citing Statistics Canada Census employment data "special run" cross -tabulating Place of Work and Place of Residence by NAICS categories for Canada, the Provinces, Census Divisions, and Census Subdivisions. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 125 of 328 73 U) co E 0 U) a I 0 U) E 0 CL U) m U) m E 0 F- U) U) ui ..0 co 0 (D CN " :3 m .2 E 4- E 0 U) 0 C14 O a) 0 'o U) U) i�: 9) 0 E 0 mU)- c) E U) 0 :3 -C- U) F- U) C%4 0) CD C%4 0 U) U) E .2 E E 0 zn- a) Cl U) C� 0 X U) a) TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin A Transportation Impact Assessment (Arcadis, 2023) 22 was undertaken for the battery cell plant, estimating that the proposed development will generate the following new trips: • 228 two-way new trips during the weekday morning peak hour • 2,088 two-way new trips during the weekday off peak hour; and • 228 two-way new trips during the weekday afternoon peak hour. Included in the above figures are 108 two-way new truck trips (54 inbound and 54 outbound) during each of the weekday morning peak hour, off peak hour and afternoon peak hour. The high off-peak traffic volumes correspond to manufacturing shifts that do not align with typical daytime business hours in many industries. Development of the rest of the industrial park is estimated to generate the following: • 3,528 two-way new trips during the weekday morning peak hour; • 1,767 two-way new trips during the weekday off peak hour; and • 3,528 two-way new trips during the weekday afternoon peak hour. The estimated trip distribution for both passenger and commercial vehicles is shown in Exhibit 7.5, summarized as follows: • Trucks: — 70% of are expected to use Highway 3 (St. Thomas Expressway) — 8% are expected to use Highbury (CR 30) — 12% are expected to use Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) to access other north -south County roads • Passenger Cars- - 40% are expected to use Highway 3 (St. Thomas Expressway) — 15% are expected to use Centennial Avenue — 15% are expected to use Highway 3 (Talbot Line). The estimated trip distribution for the surrounding industrial park is shown in Exhibit 7.6, with most trips utilizing Highway 3, County Road 30 and 52 for access and egress. 22 Arcadis (2023). Transportation Impact Assessment — Industrial Development, St. Thomas, Ontario. �A/wA/ arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 127 of 328 75 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 7.5: Estimated Battery Cell Plant Trip Distribution South Edgeware Road Centennial Avenue Talbot Line (Highway 3) St. Thomas Expressway (Highway 3) Belmont Road (CR 74), via Ron McNeil E Wonderland Road (CR 29), via Ron McNeil E Wellington Road (CR 25), via Ron McNeil E Data Source: Transportation Impact Assessment - Industrial Development, St. Thomas, Ontario, Exhibit 3-3 (Arcadis, 2023) Exhibit 7.6: Estimated Industrial Park Trip Distribution (excludes Battery Cell Plant) South Edgeware Road Centennial - - Talbot- . St. Thomas Expressway . Belmont Road (CR 74), via Ron McNeil E High.Highbury Avenue - . '. Wonderland Road (CR 29), via Ron McNeil E Wellington Road (CR 25), via Ron McNeil E Data Source: Transportation Impact Assessment - Industrial Development, St. Thomas, Ontario, Exhibit 2-3 (Arcadis, 2023) mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 128 of 328 76 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 7.2.2 Provincially Designated Residential Development in Central Elgin The proposed redevelopment of the former St. Thomas Psychiatric Hospital property in Central Elgin, south of the St. Thomas municipal limits, is expected to house approximately 10,000 residents. With a 50% participation rate in the work force, and with 59% of workers working at a fixed place outside of home as in 2021, this totals 2,950 additional commuters. Based on 2021 Census Commuting flows data for the Municipality of Central Elgin, 36% of the commuting labour force can be expected to work in St. Thomas, 22% in Elgin County, and the remaining 43% in other municipalities.23 The new workers and residents of the battery cell plant and the hospital lands redevelopment will increase County road traffic in the next 10 years greater than previously planned-3,000 additional peak -direction work trips are expected from the industrial development24 while 1,300 additional peak -direction home trips are expected from the residential development south of St. Thomas. Surrounding County roads will see 150 to 500 more vehicles per hour in the peak direction as a result of the two developments. 7.2.3 Initial Assessment of Traffic Impacts Exhibit 7.7 shows an initial assessment, conducted in spring 2024, of the average peak hour traffic volume per lane per peak direction for three corridors, all identified for improvement: • Belmont Road (CR 74), • Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) • and Highbury Avenue South (CR 30). With the additional traffic from new developments, distributed as noted above, together with traffic growth to 2043 based on year 2021 base traffic levels, these County roads north of St. Thomas are expected to exceed typical capacity as a result of the planned developments. Phase II of the TMP study will consider anticipated increased traffic both from population and employment growth in the County and vicinity, as well as the growth specifically due to the new major developments in and near St. Thomas, and will assess the potential for Highbury Avenue and/or other road corridors to provide adequate levels of service to the growing traffic. 23 Statistics Canada (2022). Commuting destination by main mode of commuting, age and gender. - Canada, provinces and territories, census divisions and census subdivisions. 24 Arcadis (2023). Transportation Impact Assessment — Industrial Development, St. Thomas, Ontario. �A/wA/ arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 129 of 328 77 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 7.7: Year 2043 Average Peak Hour Traffic Volume (per lane per peak direction) Average Peak Hour'TTaff c Voluine (per lane per peak direction) B(,-,hrK)n,t Road SCR 74� Roil M c, N er 11 Linn µ 1.) etvv (-., (-,,, n C 14, 30 & 74 � Hightmay Avenue SouLh (CR 30) 0 2 CIO 100 600 800 1.000 '1. 200 1.400 1600 1.80(.) 2 0C) 0 M Existing; Furl inure v,,At hot,Il tlid uo t ricd P a i, k & Housing V Future vv, t h Po ndusl 6A Flark & I I ousi op Source: County of Elgin Impacts to Transportation Infrastructure. Presentation to MTO (Arcadis, 2024) LAAAAA/,ar(,,.a(fis, Page 130 of 328 78 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 8 County Road Network 8.1 Physical Characteristics The County of Elgin is responsible for the following road infrastructure25 (this excludes Provincial highways and roads under local municipality jurisdiction): • 689 kilometres of County roadways; • 58 bridges that range in span from 6 to 130 m; • 84 culverts; • 10 traffic signals; • 22 signals and beacons; and • 36 streetlights. Exhibit 8.1 indicates the right-of-way widths of County roads, indicating that most County roads have approximately a 30-metre right of way. Those with a narrower right-of-way of 20 metres tend to have lower traffic volumes. Exhibit 8.2 shows the posted speed limits on Provincial and County roads. Rural County roads generally operate at 80 km/h, slowing down through settlement areas. County Roads subject to seasonal load restrictions due to softer road conditions during the spring thaw are shown in Exhibit 8.3. 8.2 Recent and Planned County Road Network Improvements The County of Elgin 10-Year Capital Plan outlines planned road, bridge, culvert and intersection improvements from 2024 to 2033. Road improvements, including resurfacing, rehabilitation and construction, are shown by County road segment and implementation phase in Exhibit 8.4. Scheduled road network improvements can inform opportunities and help define the future transportation network included in the TMP. Recently completed major road network improvements include the following: • A new roundabout at County Road 56 (Elm Line) ands County Road 28 (Centennial Avenue); 25 County of Elgin (2022). Corporate Asset Management Plan. <https://www.elgincounty.ca/wp- content/uploads/2024/09/Elgin-County-2022-AMP_FINAL_3August2022.pdf> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 131 of 328 79 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Improved intersection control beacon at County Roads 52 (Ron McNeil Line) and County Road 31 (Dalewood Road); • Rehabilitation and resurfacing of County Road 47 (Putnam Road); • Construction of County Road 29 (Wonderland Road) from County Road 52 to Southminster Bourne; • Construction of County Road 103 (Furnival Road) in Rodney; • Rehabilitation and construction of County Road 27 (Sparta Line) from Union to Sparta; • Rehabilitation of County Road 18 (Third Line) from Road 14 EPL and Road 119 WPL; • Rehabilitation of County Road 25 (Wellington Road) from City limits to Reagan Bourne; and • Resurfacing with paved shoulders of County Road 24 (Dexter Line) from County Road 23 (East Road) to Yarmouth Centre Road. Planned major road network improvements include the following: • Intersection control beacon at County Road 74 (Belmont Road) and County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line); • Intersection signalization at County Road 4 (Sunset Road) and County Road 21 (Warren Street); • Intersection improvements of County Road 4 (Sunset Road) and County Road 23 (East Road); and • Intersection improvements at County Road 4 (Sunset Road) and County Road 27 (Sparta Line); and • Intersection signalization at County Road 52/Ron McNeil Line and County Road 31/Dalewood Drive. Recent major bridge improvements include the following: • King George Lift Bridge rehabilitation; • Bothwell Bridge rehabilitation; • Port Bruce Bridge replacement; and • Meeks Bridge replacement. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 132 of 328 80 U) U) LU F_ LU F_ 0 0 0 z 0 0 C) 0 < 0 U) 0 C:j < LL, LU LU z z CL 0 0 Lj 6 Z% p F- c) < < 0 0 C:) :D 10 U) LU a) z U) "M < < CL x 0- LU U) '"o co 0 U) LU F- 0 LU F- 0 0 z 0 0 C) Cl 2-7 > p < CL U) 0 C:j a 0 < Lu U) LU E z 2-7 0 Lj p <F- < 0 Q. a- U) C:) ::D o i4 — -0 canLU a) oc; z U) "M < < CL w = " a) x ia- 0- LU ........ ........ .... . ...... .. . . . .... "I'll, ..... .... . .... ........ .ca 2 2 . ... . ... .. m 2 . . . ....... 01 �Jls� 9 Wq.......... .. ......... .... 1 1, cL E E E E E ....... . ... .. . 110, V4 . .. . . ..... . ... ... ...... . . . . ...... . .. . . . .. .. 1-1 . . ... .... .. ... . .... . . . ....... . . . I'll, . ...... .. . \, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 co CN co 4- 0 'IT co (D 0) m 0- fil w Fv 0 rn. tr ID ty Lm LL U� CL 0� u IINµ Ilk, NRIIP "Is le N S, 14, ors "Ok 0 co N (Y) 4- 0 LO (Y) LL (1) U) E p Q. U) co LU 0 F— UJ EL F— 0 0 Z CL 0 0 Cl < U) 0 U) C:j < Lu LLJ zz Q 0 0 p F— < < 0 0 0 'o (L -0 U) LLJ a) oc; z U) "m < < CL x LLI 16 ED 7d 5 m a Cr 0 Lo Cal MINI OXAM"m z5 1�77 N 90 X ry U, w ` 0*0 LL to oz 06 "two 14t, dO, elq� go, 94� 0 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 8.3 Road Classifications and Designations 8.3.1 Functional Road Class A functional road classification system is a road management tool that designates roads into different classes based on the type of service the road provides, i.e. the degree to which the roadways function is to facilitate movement of traffic vs. the degree to which the roadway facilitates access to nearby land uses. The County of Elgin's formerly in -force Official Plan (2015) grouped the County road network into five functional road classes: Major Arterial, Minor Arterial, Collector, Local and Suburban Link. As part of the County's Official Plan review, the TMP study recommended a new road classification framework that distinguished between rural vs. urban categories per current best practice. The 2024 Official Plan adopted the following functional road classification categories: • Rural Roads: Rural Major Arterial; Rural Minor Arterial; Rural Collector; Rural Local; and • Urban Roads: Urban Major Arterial; Urban Minor Arterial; Urban Collector; Urban Local. These classifications are mapped to the road network in Exhibit 8.5, and the characteristics corresponding to the eight functional road classes are shown in Exhibit 8.6 (rural context) and Exhibit 8.7 (urban context). 8.3.2 Emergency Detour Routes An important consideration in the classification of the road network is the intermittent use of some County roads in the event of incidents on the provincial highway network. A map of the Province's Emergency Detour Routes (EDRs) in Elgin County are shown in Exhibit 8.6, along with existing MTO carpool lots. The majority of the EDR network within Elgin County uses Minor Arterial roads, with the exception of County Road 25 (Major Arterial) and Provincial Highways 3 and 4. 8.3.3 Scenic Routes County roads also support the movement of visitors throughout Elgin County. The County of Elgin Official Plan (2024) identifies strategic segments of County Roads —including selected County and local municipal roadways that parallel Lake Erie —as "Scenic Routes". These corridors are intended to highlight the scenic rural charm of the County and the picturesque downtowns and waterfront by connecting people between Lake Erie ports and other destinations with Highway 401. Exhibit 8.9 shows the locations of the County's Scenic Routes. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 137 of 328 85 C14 CD C44 a CL 0 U) U) 0 0 LL 0 0 C-) 6 oc; x LLI 0 co N (Y) 4- 0 co (Y) (1) a V y— N N U U W_ O H W O O O V � 0 0 .Q ao U)_ u Q .- �-U) o cn p aw �w z z o �a O w o U Q co 0 �a Lf �O/ Lf O ::D o cfl U) LU a z Cn Q aQ .Q x W f °f cu .. ., • ' • • • . • • • • • , ' • i • • , • • • • • • ■ • u ■ - j j,CU• - • ' • • ' • a • • • • • • • • • • • • • ' • . • • i • D j 0 co N co O co N O) m a 04 N .0 m H CV O U W 0 U U) cv o E (� ri.D E 15 i 0 iFb � Yip I � Y�y 0 U) LU Z � ::D W H _ O Q 0 0 J U CL o � Z W Q 4- O N U) C �w z Z CL O ul o p Q U 0 p::D o a--0 U) W N Z U) "M a Q Q- �_ 70 m o o 75 o � 0) c— m - (n >, �; ON O a) O E cu U O _0 N U� _0 U "-. O L O L to O �_ O a) CU M ! -0 cu U O L O a- a) H ai U CU O z0 cn _ U _0 CU L o cu c a)� o L O 0 X _ cu c to a) >� O~ M M O O O (n 0 a) 0 U (Q 0 L 0 0 a) O U O.- > (n L O U to O .�. 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(0 /1010 N11,11", ,pff "N X1, AP, OM N11, It" ON, g,S e6 luj �j ol, ins, N"aro 0 co N (Y) 4- 0 N TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 8.4 Traffic Volumes and Road Capacity 8.4.1 Current Traffic and Capacity Traffic classification counts were conducted by the County of Elgin throughout the County road network in summer 2021 and 2024 and processed by Arcadis for analysis.26 Two -directional traffic volumes along the County road network are shown in the following map exhibits: • Exhibit 8.10 shows total average year 2021 weekday traffic volumes; • Exhibit 8.11 shows total average year 2024 weekday traffic volumes; • Exhibit 8.12 and Exhibit 8.13 show the absolute and percentage changes in weekday traffic volumes from 2021 to 2024, respectively; and • Exhibit 8.14 and Exhibit 8.15 show year 2024 peak hourly traffic levels in the morning and afternoon commuting periods, respectively. Traffic volumes to a large degree reflect the commuting patterns described in Section 7. The highest traffic volumes are focused on north -south connections — County Roads 4, 25, 28, 29 and 30 in central area of the County and oriented between the City of St. Thomas and the City of London —as well as north -south connections along County Roads 74, 73 and 19 (all former Provincial highways). Between 2021 and 2024, traffic volumes have changed significantly, which is not unexpected given the public health restrictions in place in 2021. Overall, traffic volumes generally increased on north -south connections—e.g. County Roads 25 and 29 between St. Thomas and London, County Road 74 between Highway 3 and Middlesex County, and County Road 4 between Port Stanley and the City of St. Thomas. Other notable increases include County Road 45 west of County Road 4, as well as County Road 73 through Aylmer. To determine where there may be road capacity issues that would indicate a need to widen roadways or take other measures, the peak morning and afternoon volumes were compared to estimated road capacities; these analyses are shown in Exhibit 8.16 and Exhibit 8.17.27 26 The objective was to obtain data for each count location for a minimum of 24 hours, though some locations were counted for longer, up to several days, and some counts locations were slightly shorter. Arcadis processed the counts to ensure that only non -holiday weekday counts were carried forward to maximize compatibility across count locations. Where more than 24 hours of weekday data were available, counts for duplicate hours of day were averaged, and where the counts fell just short of 24 hours, missing hours were synthesized by averaging data for adjacent available hours. 27 Because traffic counts were collected over both directions together, the directional split for each roadway was estimated. Road capacities were estimated based on number of lanes, posted speed limits, and current functional road class designations. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 143 of 328 91 U) '"o co 0 0 U) LU LU a 0 F- 27 ." 0 iF- ::D -21 LU co F- 0 0 Z 0 0 C) CL Cl ry 2-7 < 0 -lid C:j < Lu M LU z 27- o CL C14 CD 0 N F- c) L— < < 0 CD C:) ::D 10 T7 CL — -0 U) LU a) 00 z U) "M < < CL x LU ca N U) co 0 0 U) LU LU a 0 F- 27 ." 0 iF- ::D -21 LU F- 0 0 z 0 0 CL 0 ry 2-7 :E; < , 0 -lid C:j < Lu LU 27- z CL C14 CD 0 W p C44 F- c) L- < < a) 0 C:) ::D 10 CL — -0 U) LU a) 00 z U)" < < CL x LU 177 S "N D X r. < W; Q Or m m 2 14, i �6 -P LL LL, 0 X V) w rII I 4q q o � o cq V P- M M IryI ............................ IN 17,f, Nl Ab ob, I w 'III's ills" Ns 1, ly, Ilk M CF) U) '"o co 0 0 LU a 0 .2 U) LU F- LU F- 0 0 In_ ZO 0 0 a a. 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CL L co) m W Ld 0 LL ry 121 Ln m r= 0 0 C, U) co NO 0 LU a 0 U) 0 Q. 6 O 0 0 m: lie co co '"o lie CD to T7 00 4- B x LU 0 co N (Y) 4- 0 0 LO (1) U) '"o co 0 0 0 U) Lf ea A- CL 6 E Z 0 m: lie co co '"o lie CD CU (D r— T7 00 4- B x LU �4 01 0 'D C6 Ch 0 c: .tea a m as 0. ot o 2 2 o m m a ZI 0 0 0 0 a 0 rD 0 0 0 A j r", Of "'joblo" . . .. . ...... . .... .... . ... . .. . . .................. . ......... . .......... . ... ...... . . . ....... ....... . Op" Y 0-0 -voll 2 gar 0 co N (Y) 4- 0 LO (1) TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Road capacities were estimated based on roadway classification, rural/urban context and posted speeds, though other factors such as roadway width, design, and slopes, and the size types of trucks on the roadway can also affect roadway capacity. The capacity analyses shows that in general, traffic volumes on the County road network are well within capacity constraints, and there are no sections currently operating above capacity, i.e. a volume -to -capacity ratio of over 1.0, which would be shown in red on the plot, and would represent severely congested conditions, slow travel speeds, and unacceptable service levels. However, some road segments can be seen to be approaching capacity, that is, having a volume -to -capacity (v/c) ratio of 0.75 to 0.9, as shown in amber in the plots, or 0.9 to 1.0 v/c, as shown in dark red. The morning peak hour shows one road segments to be approaching capacity (v/c over 0.75): • Sunset Drive (CR 4) - St. Thomas boundary southerly to John Wise Line (CR 45). The afternoon peak hour shows the above segment as being closer to capacity (v/c above 0.9), as well as the following road segments to be approaching capacity (v/c above 0.75): • Wellington Road (CR 25) — St. Thomas boundary northerly to Highway 3; • Highbury Avenue (CR 30) — Ferguson Line (CR 48) northerly to Webber Bourne/Thomson Line and County boundary; and • John Street North (CR 73) in Aylmer — Talbot Street East/West to Beech Street (CR 53). Note that road link capacity issues are separate from intersection capacity and operational issues; these are discussed separately in Section 8.5. Notably, while Highbury Avenue (CR 30) has showing as approaching capacity in the above plots, 2021-2024 weekday traffic growth (Exhibit 8.10 through Exhibit 8.13) has been relatively stable on Highbury Avenue. Meanwhile, traffic has increased 2021-2024 along the parallel and less -busy north -south alternate routes of Belmont Road (CR 74) and Wellington Road (CR 25), showing that traffic has been adjusting to use less -busy routes. 8.4.2 Future Traffic and Capacity As County traffic increases to serve growing population and employment in Elgin and area, the traffic on these roadways will increase and, unless diverted to other modes of transportation and to other roadways, will likely need selected roadways to be widened or otherwise improved to increase their capacity. Phase II of the TMP study will estimate future traffic on the County Road network under different alternative roadway improvement or expansion mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 152 of 328 100 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin scenarios. This will involve factoring up current traffic levels on roadway links proportional to anticipated population growth for each local municipality in the County, and also accounting for longer -distance commuting to the electric vehicle battery cell plant, as well as accounting for changes in demographics. As St. Thomas traffic levels and congestion increase with high levels of growth in the city, Elgin County roads may also increasingly serve as a bypass network to avoid the busier urban area. 8.5 Intersection Operations Review The County of Elgin identified eleven County road intersections for conducting traffic operations analysis based on Summer 2021 traffic conditions, as shown in Exhibit 8.19. This analysis was conducted using Synchro 11 traffic simulation software. The selected intersections were grouped into three zones for the purposes of reporting on intersection conditions and findings. Detail regarding traffic operations analysis is provided in Appendix C. A summary of the findings from the traffic operations hot spot analysis for 2021 are as follows: • The traffic operations in Zone 1: West Elgin were observed to be acceptable without critical constraints under existing conditions. • The traffic operations in Zone 2: Port Stanley were observed to be acceptable without critical constraints under existing conditions. • Based on the traffic analysis conducted for Zone 3: St. Thomas North, the following findings were made- - The unsignalized traffic operations were observed to be acceptable without critical constraints under existing conditions. — The shared westbound through and left -turn lane at Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) and Highbury Avenue South (CR 30) was found to be critical (vehicle/capacity ratio of 1.00) during the Weekday PM peak hour. However, as of 2023, this segment of Ron McNeil Line has moved to City of St. Thomas jurisdiction, with a roundabout installed at this intersection. This roundabout will address operations concerns both now and well into the future. An update of intersection analysis was also conducted based on year 2024 traffic conditions. Intersection locations for this analysis are shown in Exhibit 8.19. This includes selected locations in Zone 3 north of St. Thomas, where potential intersection capacity concerns were noted based on 2021 conditions, and three intersections in a new Zone 4 south of St. Thomas. Details of this analysis are also included in Appendix C. �A/wA/ arr a d'S,C0" Tw Page 153 of 328 101 (N C) co C\A (Y) 4- 0 'IT LO (1) 0) Cu 0- U) a U) 0 ..w LU F— 0 F— LU to 0 0 ZO 0 0 U) a 0 < U) 0 C:j Q. 0 < Lu a LU .0 z 0 w p <F— < 0 C:) ::D 10 U) LU a) z U) "M < < CL x LLI IA JJ .... . ........ . .... �i .. ... ... . .. ... - 11 -7 ...... ..... . . . . . . . .... - . C141 nT --t4l, NT r d O jdf 2 N IN gn III CN .. ... ........ Yll 0 4j Al TO TJ� 00 -t N ry ry co ca to CN 9k 0 0 A C Df U) ICJ o LL WC, 4� E ILL Lq CIO uj e ija TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin The 2024 intersection operations analysis noted the following: At the Wellington Road (CR 25) and Ferguson Line (CR 48) intersection, the eastbound shared through -left -right lane and westbound shared through -left -right lane were observed to be operating above critical delay thresholding during Weekday PM peak hour. These approaches also approach critical delay in the weekday AM peak hour (LOS D), but operate acceptably during this time. At the Imperial Road (CR 73) and Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) intersection, eastbound and westbound approaches are approaching but still below critical delay in the PM peak period (LOS D). Intersections in the St. Thomas South zone were observed to be operating below critical thresholds based on 2024 traffic conditions. With anticipated growth in Elgin County and vicinity (described in Sections 4.5.4 and 4.6.4), additional intersections in the vicinity of St. Thomas are expected to reach critical capacity through the study horizon years. Operational improvements such as adding turning lanes, or adding new intersection controls such as traffic signals, or modifying the signal timing of existing traffic signals, are different ways to improve intersection operations. Phase II of the TMP study will include an updated intersection operations analysis for selected intersections, including analysis under the estimated future traffic conditions. 8.6 Traffic Collisions Understanding the types of collisions and identifying intersections and road segments with high levels of reported traffic collisions in Elgin County is necessary to develop appropriate actions that improve traffic safety. A dataset of collisions in Elgin County roads from January 2020 through July 5, 2024 (4.5 years) was analysed to identify collisions that took place on roads of County jurisdiction — a total of 1,105 traffic collisions. Of the reported collisions, 10 (0.9%) resulted in fatal injury, 124 (11.2%) resulted in non -fatal injury, and 971 (87.9%) involved property damage only. A total of 796 (72.0%) involved a single vehicle only, while 303 (27.4%) involved two or more vehicles. Exhibit 8.20 shows the distribution of the collisions based on the initial event involved in the incidents. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 156 of 328 104 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 8.20: Initial Collision Event- Elgin County Road Collisions 2020-2024 (4.5 years) Cycl ist/Peclestrian Other Motor Vehicle 295 (27%) t/L[i!' I .r. 103 (9%) Source: Arcadis analysis of collision data on Elgin County roads (January 1, 2020 to July 5, 2024) Seven collisions (0.6%) involved cyclists or pedestrians; these resulted in one fatal injury, three non -fatal injuries and three property damage incidents. Of the five collisions involving cyclists, one fatal injury occurred at the intersection of CR 74 (Belmont Road) and Wilson Line in Malahide. Of the two collisions involving pedestrians, two occurred on CR 73 (Imperial Road) - one at CR 45 (John Wise Line) and the other approximately 1.85 km north of CR 45. The most common collisions by far involved wild animals, representing 55% of collisions (606 total). Most of these involved encounters with deer, although incidents with coyotes, raccoons and wild turkeys/turkey vultures were also commonly reported. Skidding/sliding or running off of the road accounted for 9.3% of collisions (103 total). These types of collisions are often due to driving too fast for the road conditions: snow, ice, road surface type, curves or slopes. These are typically single -vehicle events but sometimes involve colliding with another vehicle. One -quarter of collisions (295 total) were other types of collisions involving multiple vehicles: failure to yield the right-of-way, rear -ending vehicles stopped at intersections, conflicts at driveways, etc. 8.6.1 Top Collision Locations The fifteen most frequent County road locations associated with any type of collision are listed in Exhibit 8.21 and mapped in Exhibit 8.22, along with the most common type of events at each location and the occurrence of fatalities and non -fatal injuries; the remaining collisions involving property damage only. �A/wA/ arr ardS,CO3, w Page 157 of 328 105 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin The five County roads associated with the highest frequency of collisions are also among the busiest in terms of traffic volumes: • CR 30 (Highbury Avenue) at CR 48 (Ferguson Line); • CR 52 (Ron McNeil Line) at CR 74 (Belmont Road), at CR 25 (Wellington Road), and at CR 31 (Dalewood Road); and • CR 45 (John Wise Line) at CR 40 (Springfield Road). Collisions involving wildlife represented a minority of collisions at these five locations, but were often involved in the majority of collisions at the other top collision locations.. There were two fatalities associated across the top fifteen locations, and both occurred on CR 73 (Imperial Rd): one at CR 52 (Ron McNeil Line) and another at CR 48 (Lyons Line) — and one more occurred at Calton Line. In addition to these above, another five fatalities occurred on other County roads28. Non -fatal injuries were a minority of collisions among the top locations. Among the above, CR 52 at CR 31, CR 73 and at CR 74 were included as part of the traffic operations review described previously in Section 8.5. The County's continued efforts to identify County road locations with a higher frequency of collisions and to implement mitigating measures to improve road user safety continue to be a top priority. 28 These occurred at CR 42 (Nova Scotia Line) at Saxton Road; CR 48 (Lyons Line) at Dorchester Road; CR 8 (Currie Road) at Thamesview Line; CR 103 (Johnston Line) at Henry Road; and CR 38 (Heritage Line) at Maple Grove Line. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 158 of 328 106 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 8.21: .. 15 Intersections for All Collision TypesRoads i 1 l . •Ave)and - ,: (Ferguson Lin- 52 (Ron McNeilLine) and CR 74 (Belmont R• - 52 (Ron McNeilLine) and CR (Wellington R• - 52 (Ron McNeilLine) - 45 (John WiseLine) and CR 40 (Springfield Rd) (Talbot - and Coyne -• . •Ave)and Mapleton- - 52 (Ron McNeilLine) and CR •- R• - 45 (John Wise Line) and CR - - R• - 45 (John Wise Line) and CR •- R• - 45 (John Wise Line) �. and CR - -. - 45 (John Wise Line) and CR (Talbot Line)- - -• and RidgeFruit Line (Talbot - and R• mw/ a Co" Tw Page 159 of 328 107 U) '"o co 0 0 0 co to (1) Q. 0 U) D LU LU F— 0 0 0- >1 z U) a 0 0 0 C) Cl u < U) 0 C:j LO < LL, T- CL LU 0 z CL 0 w 6 0 p F— c) CL < < 0 C44 0 :D 10 C4 CL — 0 U) LU a) 00 z U) "M < < CL x LU co 0 m - Phey 1� Lo CD O u LO p- CN LO d) LO co U (a 4 LLill C) LO 0 M IleLn J CD r V, N LO N LO LO (a Lo T3 E 2 D o iz ca 1= M < M > 2 2 LL L;- 0. a. a- a TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 8.7 Goods Movement Efficient goods movement in Elgin County supports businesses in the County and area, helping maintain a strong and growing manufacturing and agricultural industry base in Elgin County. Connectivity to provincial highways facilitates access to broader markets. The movement of medium and heavy trucks contributes to quality of life and economic prosperity for all through provision of consumer goods and delivery of services such as waste collection, construction and maintenance. 8.7.1 Truck Traffic Volumes Daily truck traffic volumes on County roads in 2024 are shown in in Exhibit 8.23. In Elgin County, the highest truck volumes are along major north -south connections north of Highway 3 towards Highway 401: Highbury Avenue (CR 30), Belmont Road (CR 74) and Imperial Road (CR 73), all serving over 400 trucks per day. Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) and John Wise Line (CR 45), which are routes parallel to Highway 3 and bypassing the urban areas along the highway, are also important truck routes. Truck traffic volumes are also high on County Road 3/ Talbotville Road. 8.7.2 Goods Movement Considerations The recently opened Southwold Amazon Fulfillment Centre is a new major truck trip generator in the area. The St. Thomas electric vehicle battery cell plant under construction and other new industrial development will soon add much more trucks to the road network as well. Although improvements along Highway 3 through St. Thomas are intended to direct this traffic onto provincial roadways, County roads will also see an increase in truck traffic to and from the plant. Managing this truck traffic growth and doing so with the safety of truck drivers and other road users in mind, is an important priority for the County, affecting roadway and intersection design. In addition to truck traffic in the County connecting to and from the County and area locations, truck traffic is also known to bypass MTO's Putnam Truck Inspection Station on Highway 401 east of London by using parallel County roads, in particular Avon Drive (CR 37), adding unnecessary truck traffic to these roadways and the settlement areas along them. There is a shortage of safe locations along these County roads to allow for MTO enforcement staff to conduct periodic inspections of these bypassing trucks, which over the long-term may discourage bypass use. One potential solution could be working with MTO to provide strategic and safe laybys along selected roads for this purpose, and this would also allow trucks or other vehicles a safe place to pull over as needed (e.g. to deal with vehicle safety issues or for safe communications). mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 161 of 328 109 . KD < m CL m U a. co LLY.Ii. U LL � ' i r 85 1 � I, J �I V O, ..; U LU H Ff W 0 O� F Z a ClU F ry Z i W Q - Z O U) Q < aw �w zz C 0 uJ o h I— U �— Cl i 0 : CL U)Lu m a Q Q CL s i— 0- u co N C7 O N N c6 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin An important consideration for goods movement in Elgin County is using roads that are designed to handle their heaving loading. Seasonal load restrictions on County roads were shown previously in Exhibit 8.3. Trucks that exceed the seasonal load restrictions are required to take alternative routes during this season. Concerns about truck traffic in the town of Aylmer were heard during TMP Phase I engagement. With the Province removing the controlled -access highway designation for a future Aylmer bypass, noted previously in Section 6.1.7, alternative solutions would be needed to respond to the challenges of trucks in this urban area and others in the County. Phases II and III of the TMP study will develop and assess solutions and strategies to support the safe, efficient and reliable movement of goods to, from and within Elgin County. This may include identifying and improving or maintaining key goods movement corridors. 8.8 Engagement Feedback Received about the Road Network in Elgin County Stakeholders and members of the public provided considerable input on road connectivity and traffic operations concerns during Phase I of the TMP study. Exhibit 8.24 summarizes responses to the TMP's public opinion survey question about public levels of concern for road -related topics, for urban settlement respondents and rural area respondents separately. The areas most commonly noted as major concerns for both urban and rural respondents were conflicts with pedestrians/cyclists (63% of urban and 52% of rural respondents) and safety issues due to driver behaviour (56% of urban and 45% of rural respondents). Input received from participating stakeholders and the public identified road safety concerns at several specific locations, often with respect to the need for improved traffic control, speeding concerns, or concerns for cyclist or pedestrian safety. A full listing of concerns is included in the Phase / Engagement Summary report and are considered in determining County road network needs and priorities. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 163 of 328 ill TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 8.24: Public Survey Responses to Road Network Concerns As a vehicle driver or passenger, how concerned are you about the folllowiing potential issues, to the extend that you experience therm as you travel) on County of Ellgiin roads? Urban Respondents: Conflicts with pedestrians I cyclists Difficulty sharing the road with trucks Difficulty sharing the road with agricultural equipment Improper or insufficient road maintenance Road visibility issues Need for traffic signals or traffic control changes Safety issues due to driver behaviour Traffic congestion u0000"A, major concern Is, Somewhat of a concern Rural) Respondents:: Conflicts with pedestrians / cyclists Difficulty sharing the road with trucks Difficulty sharing the road with agricultural equipment Improper or insufficient road maintenance Road visibility issues Need for traffic signals or traffic control changes Safety issues due to driver behaviour Traffic congestion 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Proportion of Respondents Not a concern I'll"' Don't know/ not sure 15% 35% 36% 25% III 41% 37% 111111��1111 150r'm 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Proportion of Respondents uuuuiu A major concern u@ Somewhat of a concern Not a concern 11111111 Don't know/ not sure Page 164 of 328 112 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Below are selected connectivity, congestion and operational concerns noted by members of the public and stakeholders through Phase I engagement activities. Connectivity: • Improved connectivity to London is needed; • Better separation of roads for through traffic and local traffic purposes is needed; and • An Aylmer bypass is needed. • Congestion concerns at the following locations: • County Road 4 (Sunset Drive) in Port Stanley; • Highway 3 (Talbot Street) and John Street (MTO); and • Capacity concerns due to new development, including County Road 30 (Highbury Ave), County Road 25 (Wellington Rd), County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line)/Ford Road at County Road 3 (Talbot Line). Traffic Operations and Traffic Control: • Need to replace advanced signage for side roads for safety; • The Emergency Detour Route is not safe for walking or cycling because of uneven gravel, speeding cars and transport trucks; • Reflective highway pavement markings improve visibility and should be maintained; • There are safety concerns with narrow shoulders on roads with steep embankments; • Traffic calming is needed in tourist areas like Port Bruce, e.g. at schools; • Traffic congestion on main roads limits speeding, so speeding is more of a concern in neighbourhoods; • Warning signs for tar and chip programs and clearing of gravel at intersections; • Speeding vehicles can be deterred with seasonal speed bumps and centre road signage; and • Roundabouts should be considered for traffic control at several County road locations- - CR 52 (Ron McNeil Line) and Highway 3 and Ford Road (Southwold) — construction is underway (MTO) — CR 52 (Ron McNeil Line) and Burwell Road (City of St. Thomas) mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 165 of 328 113 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin — CR 4 and CR 20 (Bridge Street and Carlow Road, Central Elgin) — CR 4 and CR 23 (Bridge Street and Joseph Street, Central Elgin) — CR 4 and CR 27 (Sunset Drive and Sparta Line, Central Elgin) — CR 22 and CR 27 (Fairview Road and Sparta Line, Central Elgin) — CR 22 and CR 45 (Fairview Road and John Wise Line, Central Elgin) — CR 45 and CR 36 (John Wise Line and Quaker Road, Central Elgin) — CR 28 and CR 56 (Centennial Road and Elm Line, Central Elgin) — roundabout completed — CR 28 (Centennial Road) and Southdale Line (Central Elgin) — CR 36 (Quaker Road) and Highway 3 (Central Elgin) — CR 42 and CR 73 (Nova Scotia Line and Imperial Road, Malahide) — CR 52 and CR 73 (Ron McNeil Line and Imperial Road, Malahide) — CR 40 (Springfield Road) and Highway 3 (Malahide) • Stop signs are needed at roundabouts; • Yield signs would work better than stop signs for many County roads; • Lower speed limits are needed at entry points to County roads, especially County Road 19 (Plank Road, Bayham); and • Increase speed limit to 90 km/h on County roads. Locations identified as requiring a crosswalk: • County Road 25 (Wellington Road) at Ford Road (Southwold) and at McBain Line (Southwold); and • County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line) and Whittaker Road (Malahide). Driver Behaviour: • Speeding concerns in Avon, Bayham, Port Bruce and Port Stanley; • Enforcement concerns in Bayham: roadside garbage, unlicensed quads, unlicensed dirt bikes and kids without helmets on bike; • New residents from Toronto are unsafe drivers; and • Tailgating is a concern. Goods Movement: mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 166 of 328 114 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Bypasses are desired around downtowns, especially Aylmer, to improve the safety and experience for all road users and to improve truck routing and efficiency; • Better enforcement of larger trucks is needed, e.g. those bypassing the MTO Putnam truck inspection station, and excessive vehicle speeds of these vehicles in the county; • Identifying a truck route network may help reduce trucks the wear and tear of trucks on local municipal roads; • Seasonal load restrictions on County roads can impact local businesses; • Increasing the use of freight rail would reduce the demand for trucks for goods movement; and • Roundabouts need to be designed to accommodate larger vehicles, e.g. ensuring that any roundabouts can safety accommodate wide agricultural equipment. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 167 of 328 115 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 9 Cycling Network This chapter focuses on the County's role in supporting the cycling aspect of active transportation. "Active transportation", as defined by the Provincial Planning Statement (2024), is "human -powered travel, including but not limited to, walking, cycling, inline skating and travel with the use of mobility aids, including motorized wheelchairs and other power -assisted devices moving at a comparable speed". A connected and expansive active transportation network encourages active mode choices and supports the development of healthy and complete communities. 9.1 A "County" Cycling Network The Ontario Traffic Manual Book 18 — Cycling Facilities ("OTM Book 18", 2021)29 outlines different levels within a multi -modal network, as shown in Exhibit 9.1. Three types of cycling networks comprise the top three levels of detail: • Recreational/Touring Cycling Network; • Local Neighbourhood Cycling Network; and • Commuter/Spine Cycling Network. The primary focus and responsibility for the County of Elgin is to provide the third level of connection, the commuter/spine cycling network. These represent longer -distance connections between settlement areas, often along County roads. This provides the core network to which the other two layers of cycling network can connect for an interconnected network serving a wide range of cyclists and cycling trips of different purposes throughout the County. 29 Ontario Traffic Manual Book 18 — Cycling Facilities (2021) was developed in association with the Ontario Traffic Council provides guidance to Ontario municipalities and on the uniformity and treatment of cycling design facilities, and is consistent with the Highway Traffic Act regarding municipal roads and infrastructure. A 2021 update provides up-to-date guidance for the County in developing its cycling network and determining appropriate facility types and design for each route. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 168 of 328 116 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 9.1: Cycling Networks as Components of a Multi -Modal Transportation Network RecreationallTouring Cycling Network r J c y d^— 4 r. Local Neighbourhood Cycling Network Commuter/Spine Cycling Network Road, Transit, and Pedestrian Networks Natural Features Multi -modal Transportation Network Source: Ontario Traffic Manual Book 18 — Cycling Facilities (2021), Figure 3.2 AAA A/ arr a d'S,(;0" TPage 169 of 328 117 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 9.2 "Design" Cyclists While there are also a wide range of cyclists in terms of interest and ability, OTM Book 18 defines different design cycling user groups to help inform practitioners in the planning and designing of cycling facilities, as follows: • Interested but concerned, representing 51-56% of the population; • Somewhat confident, represent 5-9% of the population; • Highly confident, representing 4-7% of the population; and • No way no how, represent the remaining population who are not interested in cycling. The interested but concerned user group is to be considered the "design cyclist", the user category that practitioners should seek to accommodate. This strategy considers the needs of the most vulnerable cycling population and develops solutions that are inclusive to and benefits all cyclists. The TMP study will reference OTM Book 18 for guidance, best practices and design standards in selecting appropriate and safe cycling facilities for the County cycling network. 9.3 Building on Previous Network Planning Initiatives In 2020, the County of Elgin updated the Cycling Network initially developed as part of the Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling Master Plan (2014), and proposed phasing for implementation. Exhibit 9.2 shows the various components of the existing and proposed active transportation network in Elgin County and St. Thomas. The existing County of Elgin active transportation network is comprised of multi- use trails, bike lanes, paved shoulders and signed routes for cycling. The proposed network expands this infrastructure to provide a more comprehensive and connected active transportation system throughout the County. The TMP will update the Cycling Master Plan, focusing on refining the proposed network and highlighting opportunities for implementation. New connections where gaps have been identified will also be considered, in part by public and stakeholder input. Ontario Traffic Manual Book 18 will inform the cycling facility selection and design process, informed by urban and rural design standards and best practices developed for Ontario municipalities. While the County road network provides direct routing between communities, these roads may not be the ideal corridors for a cycling spine due to high traffic levels including heavy truck traffic, as well as higher speeds. Adding road bed width for increased separation between cyclists and motor vehicle traffic along County Roads can be prohibitively costly. The County will work with Local Municipal Partners to implement corridors on roads under their jurisdiction where these provide desirable and feasible cycling connectivity. Some upper -tier municipalities provide funding support to local municipalities for this purpose, e.g. Simcoe County has a "Trails Connecting Communities" �A/wA/ arr ards,Co" Tw Page 170 of 328 118 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin program available to lower -tier municipalities to implement trail and active transportation projects. 9.3.1 Potential Use of Rail Trails for Cycling The Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling Master Plan (2014) and Elgin County Trails Study (2018) both identify the former Canadian Southern Railway (CASO) corridor in western Elgin County as a potential multi -use trail connection and opportunity. The County of Elgin has no current jurisdictional rights to the rail corridor. County Council has received staff reports regarding the corridor, but no recommendations have been implemented. Considerations for the conversion of the rail corridor include construction, grading and maintenance requirements, as well as potential fencing requests as a result of the Line Fences Act, R.S.O 1990, c. L. 17. The corridor may be recognized as a long-term opportunity for a multi -use trail connection in the County, but challenges to planning and implementation remain. 9.4 Cycling Demand on Current Network Strava GPS data can be used to identify the distribution of cycling trips along corridor segments that have high cyclist demand for Strava users, as shown in Exhibit 9.3. The plot shows strong cycling demand within St. Thomas and several County settlement areas, within central Elgin County, along the waterfront trails (especially within central Elgin County, as well as connecting easterly to Norfolk County). Also of note are relatively high frequencies of travel on routes between Elgin County and the City of London, central Middlesex County, as well as to the Town of Tillsonburg within Oxford County. Note that Strava subscribers tend to be more confident cyclists willing to cycle longer distances more -typical cyclists may be less likely to travel on some of the routes shown without cycling enhancements. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 171 of 328 119 Er. Ff, fl ityy . . . . . . . . . . Jo, 4 ;5 J:2 -E E 2 2 o :3 114A U. ILL OL u Z x (hq 1 0 LL ca p .S JEE TI LU Lo wt -S -S s -0 > 'm J w ID ova 'o o '�5p 0 0 U) 0CL < l� < ulj 0 p iv- 1-- .1 0 ID �jj is ID 0 0 Z —j '0 Z 03 "D r M m 2 2 ED CL co C14 co 4-- 0 C14 (D 0) (U 0- 0 Cr (1) L- U) Li LU ::D F— LU 0 0 U) a z 0 0 C) CL Cl u < 0 U) oCL C:j awe LU o CL (1) 0 LLi 6 p F— c) co > co h< 0 U) C:) ::D 10 cYi a--0 U) LU a) ci z U) "M < < CL x LU TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 9.5 Engagement Inputs about Cycling in Elgin County Feedback from stakeholders and the public on active transportation improvements and concerns were received through various TMP Phase engagement activities. Participants of the online public survey were asked about factors that could encourage cycling more often. Results are summarized in Exhibit 9.4, which distinguishes urban vs. rural respondents. Increased separation of cyclists from other traffic was the factor most frequently chosen by all respondents (68%). Exhibit 9.4: Public Survey Responses to Factors that Encourage Cycling What factors would encourage you to cycle imore often? Select all that apply. A more complete and connected cycling network. Increased separation of cyclists from other traffic, e.g. dedicated bicycle lanes or multi -use paths Fewer heavy trucks on or near cycling routes Slower driver speeds on roads shared with cyclists Improved winter maintenance of bikeways Other I am not interested in cycling more often. I am physically unable to cycle more often [3J�•fi3JItfi3J�i3J�fi3J1.! Proportion of Respondents mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 174 of 328 122 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Input received from stakeholders and members of the public demonstrated strong support for new, improved and connected active transportation infrastructure that encourages the safe and comfortable movement of cyclists and pedestrians. Other common themes heard include the following: • The safety and comfort of active transportation users is increasingly important and can be addressed through providing increased separation of motorized vs. non -motorized modes, noting that proximity to cars and trucks is a major factor to active transportation uptake. This can be achieved through developing physically separated bike lanes or paved shoulders to improve bike user safety. • There is strong interest in developing a safer, more connected and complete cycling network throughout the County to support commuting and recreational active travel. • The concern with vulnerable road user safety was also clear in that the top concerns with the current road network were potential conflicts with cyclists or pedestrians, safety issues due to driver speed and behaviour, and improper or insufficient road maintenance. • Walking and cycling are important modes — supporting related infrastructure in both urban and rural settings is important to enhance safety, improve connectivity and support the environment. • Supportive cycling infrastructure (e.g. water stations, rest areas, bike repair stations) is needed along cycling routes, especially tourism/ scenic routes. • Sidewalks, pedestrian crossovers and/or pedestrian islands are needed for busy streets in urban areas including Port Stanley and Aylmer. • Bridge surfaces must be safe for cyclist use (e.g. avoiding slippery steel grate surfaces). Some road surfaces that are suitable for cars can be dangerous for cyclists. • Supportive active transportation infrastructure in both urban and rural areas involves more than surface infrastructure such as new or improved sidewalks or cycling routes. Night-time lighting, safe road crossings, water stations, comfortable benches and rest areas, and bike repair stations also respond to basic needs of pedestrians and/or recreational and commuter cyclists. • Some road signage used on roads in the County, particularly "Share the Road Ends" can be confusing to both cyclists and motorists. • Road maintenance, including street sweeping to remove gravel and winter snow removal, are also important to support cyclist safety. • While active transportation can be enjoyable and provide health benefits, it also serves as an important transportation option for those who may not have access to personal vehicle transportation, among which may be the County's many migrant seasonal agricultural workers. �A/wA/ arr ardS,CO3, w Page 175 of 328 123 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 10 Transit Network and Services Public transit services can reduce car dependence and provide a potentially more economical and environmentallysensitive way to travel to daily activities such as employment, shopping, education and leisure. However, the economic feasibility of providing transit services in rural areas is challenged by long distances and relatively low demand for services. Existing and currently proposed or planned transit services within and in the vicinity of Elgin County are shown in Exhibit 10.1. The following services are described further below: • Municipal Transit Services- - Four Counties Community Transportation Service — Railway City Transit (St. Thomas) — Middlesex County Connect — T:GO Transit (Tillsonburg) • Provincial Transit Services- - GO Transit (discontinued) • Federal Transportation Services- - VIA Rail • Private Transit Services- - Intercity Bus — Flixbus — Rider Express — Onex Bus — Red Arrow — Megabus (operated by Badder Bus or Trailways) The Port Stanley Terminal Railway was described in Section 5.4.2. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 176 of 328 124 T Ap 0 2 E 2 �E CL LL U- 0. � CL u Z w 0 �z 0 m 03 Ll m F6 o:3 w c E Lo D E 5 5 uj z o 0) X LO TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 10.1 Municipal Transit Services Municipal transit services available to residents and visitors of Elgin County include Four Counties Community Transportation Service, Railway City Transit, Middlesex County Connect and T:GO Transit. A summary of each municipal transit service is provided subsequently. Middlesex County Connect and T:GO Transit receive funding support from the Ontario Community Transportation Grant, with current committed funding to 2025.30 In October 2024, the Province announced the Ontario Transit Investment Fund, an investment of $5 million annually to support smaller and underserved rural communities in the provision of reliable transit.31 The program is expected to begin in 2025. 10.1.1 Four Counties Community Transportation Service Four Counties Community Transportation Service32 is an on -demand service operated by the Municipality of West Elgin that provides accessible and affordable transportation for residents in the Four Counties Area, in partnership with the Four Counties municipalities (West Elgin, Southwest Middlesex, Newbury and Chatham -Kent, Ward 3). The service's focus is on helping residents (especially seniors) get to medical appointments, health care services, community programs and shopping. Current service hours are Monday to Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and trips outside of regular hours and/or the service area can be accommodated depending on availability. Residents can schedule a trip by calling at least 24 hours in advance. Fares are $8 for a one-way trip and $16 for a return trip. The service had received funding support from the provincial Community Transportation Grant. Costs and deficits are shared among the municipal partners. Service is provided in wheelchair -accessible 16-passenger vans. The feasibility of using smaller vans is being studied. 30 Government of Ontario Newsroom (June 2021). Community Transportation Grant Program Recipients and Services. <https://news.ontario.ca/en/backgrounder/l000417/community- transportation-grant-program -recipients-and-services> Accessed November 2024. 31 Government of Ontario Newsroom (October 2024). Ontario Investing in Transportation for Rural Communities. < https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1005134/ontario-investing-in-transportation-for- rural-communities> Accessed November 2024. 32 Municipal of West Elgin (2024). Transit. <https://www.westelgin.net/en/living-here/transit.aspx> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 178 of 328 126 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 10.1.2 Railway City Transit The City of St. Thomas operates Railway City Transit33 Branded as Local Motion, the transportation authority offers fixed route conventional transit, demand -responsive transit; and accessible transit (called Parallel Transit). The conventional transit service consists of five fixed routes that converge at the St. Thomas Transit Services Central Transfer Point at the Walmart (Talbot Street and First Avenue). A map of the transit routes is included as Exhibit 10.2. Current service hours for the conventional routes are Monday to Friday 7.15 a.m. to 5.45 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday 9.15 a.m. to 5.45 p.m. A on -demand transit service offers on -demand rides based on a stop -to -stop system to areas not within close proximity to the fixed route service —the coverage is shown in Exhibit 10.2. Evening and night on -demand service outside of fixed -route hours is available city-wide. The on -demand service is available Monday to Friday 6.15 a.m. to 9.45 p.m. and Saturday from 9.15 a.m. to 9.45 p.m. Riders must book the on -demand service through the RCT OnDemand app, website or telephone. Railway City Transit also operates Parallel Transit, an accessible transit service offering door-to-door service for qualified St. Thomas residents. The fare for a one-way adult ride for each of the above services is $2.75 and there are options to reduce the price per ride by purchasing in bulk (e.g. book of 10 or monthly pass). Riders are required to pay cash for their fare as they board the vehicle or must purchase tickets in advance. The City of St. Thomas Strategic Transit Plan (2020) proposes a regional transit service between St. Thomas, Elgin County and London. The service would initially include three routes (to the north, east and south), with potential to expand to the west as well based on the success of a three-year pilot project. These proposed routes were conceptually shown in Exhibit 10.1. 33 City of St. Thomas (2024). Transit System. <https://www.stthomas.ca/living_here/localmotion> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 179 of 328 127 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 10.2: St. Thomas Railway City Transit Service Map A111 Transit Routes, Northside Route I Hospital Route 2 Tallbot East & West IRoute 3 Parkside Route 4 Fanshawe Route 5 I I'm' b9hAll NO On IDernand Lone Ivs. Bus Shielter Q kV f ErN5VWAI RD 6W ON Wa 6lM CA U4 W129 INA aW 61 StOTT St Y01. ills v 21IM", 22 -rt 1�,n FALg,jj_q".jX2iF,305 4 3-I"Ui 1 301 2c,626 za Al — , " _ . " ,, 111111- 1111 ............. .. . 14m ik MY CtNtm: ti, KIM 31,1142't A&I 41 q, ! L rvsa'?, , 31 01 623 62"4 WI $,IT -%z 51 Ix 2114"�,7,Q J] PME$IT AV' > 4u,". " (1 3: &04 Y qcwq ESTlY -it 4110 921 �J ,st V 441111 LhtN AT "1 010, 1,44 41 Y 26a Z1,0- 214 4WD CP PEAN fs8t AV 13 ...... .. .. 612 v . ...... .... Source: Local Motion Railway City Transit Ride Guide (2022) �AAAAA/, a r(:.ads, Co" TPage 180 of 328 128 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 10.1.3 Middlesex County Connect The County of Middlesex operates Middlesex County Connect,34 a transit service made possible through funding support from the Province of Ontario's Community Transportation Grant program (through 2025). A map of the Middlesex County Connect routes is shown in Exhibit 10.3. Until late May 2023, Middlesex County provided two scheduled weekday fixed - route services, together with on -demand transit services on Saturdays. The two fixed -route services were a Woodstock-Ingersoll-Thamesford-Thorndale-London route, and a Dorchester -London route. Based on recommendations from the Rural Transit Needs Assessment Study (Arcadis IBI Group, 2023), two revised transit routes were implemented in late May 2023: • Route 1: Lucan-Ilderton-Arva-London: Operating Monday to Friday, two morning roundtrips and two late afternoon roundtrips are provided (one morning northbound trip and one late afternoon trip operate between London Masonville Mall to Lucan only, bypassing Arva and Ilderton). London stops are at Masonville Mall and at Fanshawe College. • Route 2: Woodstock -Ingersoll -Putnam -Dorchester -London: Operating Monday to Friday, two morning roundtrips (one westbound trip only operates from Dorchester to London while one eastbound trip operates express between London Masonville Mall and Dorchester) and one late afternoon roundtrip are provided. London stops are at Argyle Mall, Fanshawe College and at Masonville Mall. One trip daily each way is timed to allow transfer between Routes 1 and 2 at Masonville Mall or at Fanshawe College. An additional route was implemented on April 8, 2024 to connect local municipalities in Middlesex County to Southwold and St. Thomas. • Route 3: Dorchester -London -St. Thomas-Southwold: Operating Monday to Saturday, two morning roundtrips and two late afternoon roundtrips are provided. The service operates both ways between Dorchester and London, and in a one-way loop between London and St. Thomas/Southwold. The stop in Southwold is located at the Amazon Fulfillment Centre, and stops in St. Thomas are located at Valleyview Home, Gaylord Road at Michigan Boulevard, and the Railway City Transit Hub. Fares for Middlesex County Connect are $5 per trip. Fares can be paid by cash, credit, debit or via the Blaise Transit app. Students can also purchase a 30-day student pass for $160 via the Blaise Transit app. 34 Middlesex County (2024). Middlesex County Connect. <https://www.middlesex.ca/ct> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 181 of 328 129 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 10.3: Middlesex County Connect Service Map t.0 an Middlesex Centre London TRANSIT ICONNNNNECTIIONS& L NDON TRANSIT SIT 00, ARGYLE MALL MA50NMILLE IuiAL i I?: WHITE OAKS KS MALL W"OODSTOC TNNNKNNT° TERMINAL -. Sauth Idil S" THO MNA�.S TRA�NNfSNT INN TI "� IAAMNN.Y#WAY ITMTAA+IMNSNiNINnNANI' �u Thames Centre I " i, Slx wha N wor arcou Rapfe %. _ 1 Source: County of Middlesex, Middlesex County Connect Routes (2024) 10.1.4 T:GO Transit T:G035 is operated by the Town of Tillsonburg and provides conventional bus services, including two routes within the Town of Tillsonburg as well as three inter -community transit routes connecting Tillsonburg to neighbouring municipalities. T:GO's Route 3 connects Tillsonburg and Port Burwell, as shown in Exhibit 10.1, and operates three roundtrips per day on Tuesdays and Fridays on a fixed schedule, with stops in Eden, Straffordville and Vienna, as shown in Exhibit 10.4. 35 Town of Tillsonburg (2024). TGO Transit. <https://www.tiIIsonburg.ca/living-here/t-go-transit/> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr a d'S,(;0" T� Page 182 of 328 130 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 10.4: T:GO Route 3 Service Schedule Tillsonburg - Town Centre wall 99 on Broadway (Iln-Town 'Stop #1 ) 113:115�n� 11:2 �r� 12:45pr� Eden - Community Centre 302 Parking Lot 101 25AM 11:13AM 12:55p Straffordville Community 303 M:32Am 11.O a6AM 1:Cn2pm Centre 304 Vienna - Community Centre 10-.42 a 10:56AM 1:12pm Pant Burwell - Pitt St @ Marine 305 Museum 110:49 M 11 :49AM 1:19PM 1:53pm 3:45Pm 4:53Pm 143pm 3:55pm 4:43Pm, 1;26pm 4:12pm 4;26pm I:1'9pm 4.19pm 4:119p indicates travellinq to Port Burwell. ' indicaites trave#Uinq to T llsonibu Source: Town of Tillsonburg T:GO Intercommunity Transit Brochure. (Maps and Schedules Effective September 2022) < https://www.tillsonburg.ca/media/ocunkenl/inter-community- brochure-newest.pdf> Accessed September 2024 The adult fare is $10.75 for a single ride with options to reduce the price per ride by purchasing in bulk (e.g. 10-ride pass, day pass and monthly pass). Riders are required to pay cash for their fare as they board the vehicle or must purchase tickets in advance. Current service hours for services within Tillsonburg are Monday to Friday 5:55 a.m. to 5:55 p.m. The fare for a one-way adult ride is $2.75 and there are options to reduce the price per ride by purchasing in bulk (e.g. 10-ride pass, day pass and monthly pass). T:GO operates with 20-passenger seated buses. T:GO Inter -Community Transit service had received funding support from the provincial Community Transportation Grant. 10.2 Provincial Transit Services 10.2.1 GO Transit GO Transit, a division of the provincial Crown agency Metrolinx, that operates rail service focused on the Greater Golden Horseshoe area, piloted GO Rail service between London and Toronto beginning October 18, 2021. The service included one trip from London to Toronto in the morning and one trip from Toronto to London in the evening. The journey took approximately four hours each way, with stops in Stratford, Kitchener, Guelph, Acton, Georgetown and Brampton. Fares were $16.45 for an adult standard ride and $13.84 for an adult Presto ride. The pilot ended on October 13, 2023, at which point service was discontinued. mmm arr a d'S,(;0"rt. Page 183 of 328 131 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 10.3 Federal Transit Services 10.3.1 VIA Rail VIA Rai136 is a federal Crown Corporation that provides inter -city passenger rail service throughout Canada with the following nearby services: • Toronto -London -Windsor: four trains each direction daily; • Toronto -London -Sarnia: one train each direction daily (eastbound in the morning and westbound in the evening); and • Toronto -London: one additional train eastbound Monday through Saturday and one additional train westbound Sunday to Friday. These routes can be accessed by Elgin County residents at nearby Glencoe, London or Ingersoll VIA stations. The trip between London and Windsor is just under two hours and the trip from London to Toronto is between 2 hours and 10 minutes and 2.5 hours. This route makes stops in Ingersoll, Woodstock, Brantford, Aldershot and Oakville, before arriving in Toronto. When booked in advance, the current minimum fare for London -Toronto is $42 (not including taxes) and for Windsor -London is $39 plus tax. The trip between Sarnia and London is just over one hour and the trip between London and Toronto is about 3.5 hours. This route stops in Kitchener, Guelph, and Brampton, among other locations, before arriving in Toronto. When booked in advance, the minimum fare for Sarnia -London is $26 plus tax (not including taxes). 10.4 Privately -Operated Services Elgin County is not currently serviced by privately -operated inter -regional buses. However, multiple private operators do provide frequent inter -regional direct bus services between London and the Greater Toronto Area and other destinations. In addition, one of the private operators, Flixbus, also provides service to and from St. Thomas. The following list summarizes the privately -operated services near Elgin County: • Intercity Bus37: Two daily roundtrips between London and Sarnia via Strathroy; three roundtrips between London and Toronto via Woodstock and Kitchener and one daily roundtrip between London and Pearson Airport via Woodstock and Kitchener. The closest bus stops to Elgin County are in London at the London Intercity Bus 36 VIA Rail (2024). <https://www.viarail.ca/en> Accessed September 2024. 37 Intercity Bus (2024). Routes. <https://www.intercitybus.ca/routes/> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 184 of 328 132 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Terminal and White Oaks Mall. Intercity Bus is planning to operate a new route to and from St. Thomas in the future. • Flixbus38: One daily roundtrip between St. Thomas and Toronto via London, Brantford, and Hamilton. Eleven daily roundtrips between London and Toronto, with selected trips stopping at Brantford, Hamilton, Kitchener and/or Pearson Airport, with selected trips travelling as far as Ottawa. Three daily roundtrips are also operated between London and Detroit via Chatham -Kent and Windsor. The closest bus stop from Elgin County is in St. Thomas (955 Talbot Street) or in Downtown London (Waterloo Street at King Street). • Rider Express39: Two daily roundtrips between London and Toronto via Kitchener and Mississauga. The closest bus stop from Elgin County is in Downtown London (196 York Street). • Onex Bus40: Eight daily roundtrips between London and the Greater Toronto Area with stops at Stratford, Kitchener, Milton, Mississauga, Pearson Airport, Toronto, Vaughan and/or Barrie. The closet bus stop from Elgin County is in Downtown London (Via Rail Station) or Wellington Road and Exter Road near White Oaks Mall in London. • Red Arrow41: One daily roundtrip between London and Toronto. The closest bus stop from Elgin County is in Downtown London (West side of Waterloo Street, between King Street and York Street). • Megabus (operated by Badder Bus or Trailways)42: Nine roundtrips between London and Toronto with selected trips stopping in Mississauga. The closest bus stop from Elgin County is at the Flying J Travel Center located at 3700 Highbury Avenue South in London. Tickets for privately -operated bus service vary based on market demand. For example, tickets between London and Toronto ranges from $20 to $60 depending on the time of day and date of purchases. Flixbus ticket between St. Thomas and Toronto starts from $31.99. One of the challenges with privately -operated services, as highlighted through stakeholder engagement, is the lack of parking available for passengers at some London and St. Thomas bus stops. Without parking provided and limited transit service from Elgin, passengers would need to find a ride or take a taxi to and from the bus stop, which can limit the opportunity for residents to use the 38 Flixbus (2024). Buses from and to London, ON. <https://www.flixbus.ca/bus/london-on> Accessed October 2024. 39 Rider Express (2024). Routes. <https://riderexpress.ca/routes/> Accessed September 2024. 40 Onex Bus (2024). Routes. <https://onexbus.com/routes> Accessed September 2024. 41 Red Arrow (2024). <https://www.redarrow.ca/> Accessed October 2024. 42 Megabus (2024). Bus from London to Toronto. <https://ca.megabus.com/route-guides/london-to- toronto-bus> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 185 of 328 133 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin service. Intercity Bus has signaled its intention to operate a new route to and from St. Thomas in the future which has the potential to bring more inter- regional bus service closer to the Elgin community. 10.5 Other Community Transportation Services The following are other transportation services that residents of Elgin County may make use of: • Victorian Order of Nurses, Middlesex -Elgin 43: Based in St. Thomas, this is a charitable, not -for -profit agency that provides home and community care including accessible transportation services; • Your Taxi — Wheelchair Bus and Wheelchair Taxi44: This service provides 24-hour services at a set fee within Elgin County, St. Thomas and London; and • Transportation Services — West Elgin Community Health Centre45: This service provides pre -booked rides by screened volunteers or paid drivers using their own vehicles to help residents reach their medical appointments, shopping and to social activities and programs. Additional services based outside of Elgin County may provide service within the County. 10.6 Engagement Feedback on Transit Services and Potential The TMP online public survey conducted asked participants about desired transit locations and connections of interest for desired transit service. There is general interest among respondents to implement inter -community transit service within the County and to external locations. The results varied by geographic area: • Overall, respondents from the eastern municipalities of Elgin County are most interested in future transit connections to St. Thomas (52%), Aylmer (43%), London (41 %), Tillsonburg (41 %), and Malahide (30%). 43 Victorian Order of Nurses for Canada (2022). Middlesex -Elgin Services. <https://von.ca/en/locations/middlesex-elgin?transportation#location> Accessed September 2024. as Your Taxi (2024). Taxi Service. <http://www.yourtaxi.ca/> Accessed September 2024. 45 West Elgin Community Health Centre (2019). Transportation Services. <https://wechc.on.ca/programs-and-services/transportation-services> Accessed September 2024. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 186 of 328 134 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Respondents from the central municipalities are most interested in future connections to London (33%), St. Thomas (30%), and Central Elgin (28%). • Respondents from the western municipalities are most interested in future connections to St. Thomas (33%) and London (22%). Municipal Advisory Committee members noted the need to consider future transit demand to and from the employment lands in Talbotville, Aylmer and the redevelopment of the former Ford assembly plant property. A seasonal shuttle to the Port towns could help County residents connect to these areas and reduce vehicle traffic and parking demands. mAm a Co" Tw Page 187 of 328 135 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 11 Other Trends Affecting County Transportation Population and employment forecasts, described previously in sections 4.5.4 and 4.6.4, respectively, are key driving factors affecting transportation change in Elgin County, in looking forward to the TMP's planning years of 2034, 2044 and 2054. This chapter outlines additional factors that can influence the shape of the transportation system and travel demand. 11.1 Long -Term COVID-19 Impacts The COVID-19 pandemic was a major disruptor to daily living and resulting travel patterns, and resulted in changes that may have a continuing impact long after pandemic recovery. Travel has since largely returned to pre -pandemic patterns. However, some long-term shifts in transportation patterns such as increased remote work for some employment sectors, and increased interest in active transportation and transit modes need to be considered. Exhibit 11.1 shows the relative change in weekday trips from February 2020 (just before pandemic restrictions began) through January 2021, relative to a January 2020 baseline, highlighting shifting mobility patterns. All types of trips declined between 10% to 55% below the baseline between March 9, 2020 and April 6, 2020 before rising to a steady rate until another significant decline on December 28, 2020, coinciding with a province -wide lockdown. Grocery and pharmacy trips experienced increases over the baseline in early March and between April 27, 2020 and December 28, 2020. Retail and recreation trips also experienced increases over the baseline between June 8, 2020 and September 28, 2020, coinciding with loosening COVID-19 restrictions. The COVID-19 pandemic precipitated the shift to telecommuting for those industries where delivering services remotely was feasible, and this shift to working from home more often may last beyond the pandemic. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 188 of 328 136 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 11.1: Changes in Trip Rates to Elgin County Destinations due to COVID-19 60 50 40 30 m 20 10 0 C M -10 -20 0 -30 -40 -50 -60 Pandemic restrictions begin GroceryRetail and Recreation Destinations Destinations Workplace Destinations ,; • r +sr .• w it • w a� .w r�r r�r ar • nw � � wr � ur � +� s • w. uu s. w rr irr rr ar +se +fir +� «w ar • iw � wr w • rr +r w � � • • �r Source: Arcadis Analysis of Google Community Mobility Data (2021) The TMP's online survey conducted as part of PIC 1 asked about anticipated long-term changes to commuting patterns as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Exhibit 11.2 summarizes the responses, indicating 41 % of respondents will continue to work away from home as they did before the pandemic, and 20% of respondents will likely reduce their commuting frequency after the pandemic. Reduced commuting to work may position travel demand away from traditional peak commuting periods. With workers spending more time near their homes rather than at workplaces, there has been an increased emphasis on local, transportation to support shopping, recreation and social trips close to home —an increase in the types of trips that can be made by walking or cycling. More time at home and the reduced frequency of commuting to workplaces also has generated a renewed value of the home, and the appeal of small - community living and increased housing affordability are additional factors that may increase the attractiveness of Elgin County, with resulting implications on the operations of its transportation system. �nmm arr a d's,Co" Tw Page 189 of 328 137 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin While the long-term impacts of the pandemic are still uncertain, the TMP will consider how potential long-term effects will implicate the transportation network. Exhibit 11.2: Public Survey Response to Changing Commuting Patterns a I a9- M 1 w s ■ a' w r a + ■ N Not applicable: not employed before or after the pandemic 27% ;% am unsure of my work status after the pandemic S%- I worked away from hiome before the pandemic, but will continue to work at home some of the time after the pandemic 11 % will continue to work at home, as I did before the pandemic 4% I will continue to work away from home, as I did before thie pandemic 41 % I worked away from home before the pandemic, but will continue to work at home all or most of the time after the pandemic 9% mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 190 of 328 138 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 11.2 Emerging Technologies Emerging transportation technologies are an important consideration in the development of a future -looking transportation network. Technological advancements that support electric, shared, automated and connected transportation options are reshaping mobility. By developing infrastructure and policies that support the adoption of technologies where appropriate for the needs and context of Elgin County, the County can better take advantage of these new technologies. 11.2.1 Electric Vehicles As of 2023, there are an estimated 500,000 zero -emissions vehicles (ZEVs) in Canada, a considerable increase from the 50,000 that existed in 2017.46 Additionally, in June 2021, the Government of Canada announced a mandatory target for all light -duty vehicles sold in Canada to be zero -emission (i.e. EVs, hydrogen fuel cell, etc.) by 2035.47 Exhibit 11.3 shows public EV charging stations currently available in and around Elgin County. The map displays the different levels of EV charging — Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 — where a higher level of charging equates to a faster charging process. In response to the federal government's efforts to expand electric vehicle charging stations via Natural Resource Canada's Zero -Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP), the County of Elgin submitted a successful joint public -private partnership funding project proposal with the Municipality of Central Elgin and ERTH Corporation in 2020. The project involves the ongoing installation of 20 electric vehicle connectors at an estimated cost of $216,040, of which $100,000 was ZEVIP funded. Exhibit 11.4 shows the locations of the EV connectors across 10 locations in the County and one location in Ingersoll. 46 Canada Energy Regulator (June 2024). Market Snapshot. Zero emission vehicles now account for over 10% of all new vehicles in Canada. <https://www.cer-rec.gc.ca/en/data-analysis/energy- markets/market-snapshots/2024/market-snapshot-zero-emission-vehicles-now-account-for-over- 10-percent-of-all-new-vehicles-in-canada.html> Accessed October 2024. 47 Transport Canada (June 2021). Building a green economy. Government of Canada to require 100% of car and passenger truck salves be zero -emission by 2035 in Canada. <https://www.canada.ca/en/transport-canada/news/2021 /06/building-a-green-economy- government-of-canada-to-require-100-of-car-and-passenger-truck-sales-be-zero-emission-by-2035- in-canada.html> Accessed September 2021. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 191 of 328 139 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit 11.1 Locations of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Elgin County YA'rvCe t.wvt�nA A I+1.r .m e;.�m � .niwm�� r, a � � ,. q;Fr°rrl ,., .., ", .a ." w.Nl , -- U.,k', nwa romuYieinr,�wa�umu� �"a z" ,ry f ' � miw aFe d MvnuoRl cl�emU.al ulM .P RniFk�M1� r.iw; / , .. , 41 v . If- r "u m rr. "�• 0 �isW i Source: ChargeHub <https://chargehub.com/map/#/en/map> Accessed October 2024 The Province of Ontario is also undertaking efforts to expand EV prevalence through the installation of supportive infrastructure. In February 2022, the Province launched new EV rapid charging stations at six ONroute rest area locations along Highway 401, including Dutton and West Lorne within Elgin County, as part of the Province's fast charging roll -out program. By the end of 2023, fast chargers were installed at 20 ONroute stations. The program will eventually see more than 80 chargers built at all 23 ONroute locations.48 In view of these advancements toward electric vehicle infrastructure, the need to support this technology will become more pressing throughout the County, and especially for the tourist -oriented communities along Lake Erie, where visitors could be travelling longer distances from their home charging systems. As EVs and hybrid vehicles become more common due to falling prices and increasingly strict climate change and environmental policies, the County of Elgin should expect to continue supporting an EV charging network. 48 ONroute (2024). EV Charging Stations. <https://www.onroute.ca/brands/ev-chargers> Accessed October 2024. mAAA/ arr ardS,Co" Tw Page 192 of 328 140 U) W_ H ::D O H W 0 O >, Q 0 0 J U a o w Q U) O N C:j O awe W z Z CL O W o h I— U Q p ::D o a--0 cn w a) z (n "M a Q Q- �_ 0 (V O N_ W 0 O U ai O U) co N C7 4- 0 C7 N 0) (6 0- TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 11.2.2 "New Mobility" Services The TMP will identify anticipated trends and potential considerations for the County in the area of "new mobility", such as on -demand transportation services, facilitated carsharing services, and streamlined booking of transit trips across multiple providers, which can help people to be less dependent on personal vehicle travel. 11.2.3 Connected Vehicles and Automated Vehicles Connected Vehicles (CV) and Automated Vehicles (AV) will also affect the County's transportation network as a potential opportunity toward the safer and more efficient operation of cars, trucks and passenger transit shuttles. These two technologies are defined as the following: • AV refers to vehicles equipped with driving technology that allows the vehicle to drive itself under certain circumstances. The universal classification system developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) categorizes different levels of automation for motor vehicles (levels 0 through 5), as summarized in Exhibit 11.5. • CV refers to vehicles equipped with wireless communication technology that allows the vehicle to exchange information with other vehicles (V2V), roadside infrastructure (V21) or the broader cloud of technologies (V2X). As MTO continues to advance its own initiatives to facilitate two-way communication of traffic and road condition information between vehicles and infrastructure, the County can also look to be prepared for future advancements in technology. This could mean that the County prepare for vehicle -to - infrastructure connectivity to be embedded in future road investment plans in priority locations. The Province announced in 2019 that vehicles equipped with higher levels of automation (SAE Level 3 technology) will be permitted on Ontario roads once they are eligible for purchase in Canada.49 The Province will also allow pilot participants to test driverless automated vehicles and connected truck platoons. Truck platooning is the linking of two or more trucks in convoy using connectivity technology and automated driving support systems, with anticipated benefits of safer, cleaner and more efficient goods movement. so Additionally, improved road user safety due the elimination of driver error is an expected benefit of automated vehicles, and roadway capacity improvements for 49 Government of Ontario Newsroom (January 2019). Ontario Government Supports Innovation and Growth in Automated Vehicle Industry. <https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/51006/ontario-government- supports-innovation-and-growth-in-automated-vehicle-industry> Accessed September 2021. so European Automobile Manufacturers Association (2017). What is Truck Platooning?. <https://www.acea.auto/files/Platooning_roadmap.pdf> Accessed September 2021. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 194 of 328 142 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin controlled -access highways and arterial roads could result from both automated vehicles and connected vehicles.51 11.2.4 Driver Information Systems Other technological advancements include the potential to work with the Province to extend their real-time and predictive driver information systems like road condition warnings in winter to the County road network. Driver Support Level 0 No No automated features (warning features Automation only). Level 1 Driver Intelligent features add layer of safety and Assistance comfort. A human driver is required for all critical functions. Level 2 Partial At least two automated tasks are managed Automation by the vehicle, but the driver must remain engaged with the driving task. Automated Driving Level 3 Conditional The vehicle becomes a co-pilot. The vehicle Automation manages most safety -critical driving functions, but the driver must always be ready to take control of the vehicle. Level 4 High The vehicle is capable of performing all Automation driving functions under certain conditions. The driver may have the option to control the vehicle. Level 5 Full Vehicle is capable of being completely Automation driverless. Full-time automated driving in all conditions without need for a human driver. Source: MTO, adopted from Society of Automotive Engineers (2021) 51 Canadian Transportation Research Forum (2017). Fully Autonomous Vehicles: Analyzing Transportation Network Performance and Operating Scenarios in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada. <https://uttri.utoronto.ca/files/2017/02/CTRF2017-Kloostra-Final.pdf> Accessed September 2021. �nmm/ arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 195 of 328 143 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 11.3 Travel Demand Management Travel (or Transportation) Demand Management (TDM) is the use of strategies, policies, infrastructure and technologies to optimize the transportation network by influencing and directing travel behaviour toward reduced personal vehicle use. TDM can work to reduce the demand placed on the County's transportation network, leading to reduced congestion. TDM initiatives can also replace or delay more expensive capital projects such as corridor widening by optimizing the existing transportation network. As Elgin County continues to grow, targeted TDM strategies will become increasingly important. Targeted TDM programming improves the awareness of mobility options and seeks to remove barriers residents face when considering alternative modes of travel. Examples of TDM initiatives or strategies include the following: • Facilitating ridesharing / carpooling; • Encouraging teleworking; • Supporting alternative / flexible work schedules; • Improving public travel information and awareness; • Improving active transportation infrastructure; and • Providing public transit services and information. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 196 of 328 144 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 12 Needs and Opportunities by Mode The primary focus of Phase I of the TMP study is to identify the transportation needs and opportunities in Elgin County, providing a solid foundation for later phases to develop and assess potential solutions, supporting strategies and policies to address them. This chapter represents the Problem or Opportunity Statement as required by the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Master Plan process. It is organized into several problem statements that identify the various high-level needs and opportunities of the County's transportation network, as identified through policy review, engagement activities (including stakeholder and public input) and technical analysis. These represent the various travel modes that form the scope of the TMP — roads, active transportation, transit, commercial vehicle goods movement and rail. In response to the identified needs and issues related to transportation in Elgin County, identified opportunities are also noted, and will inform the actionable recommendations and strategies developed in the subsequent phases of the TMP study. 12.1 Support the County Road Network for Efficient and Safe Connectivity of Residents, Businesses, Visitors and Goods The TMP will respond to issues and challenges identified with the County road network. It will also act on opportunities to better accommodate the anticipated population and employment growth in the County that will put additional demand on the County roads. Identifying strategies and implementing modifications to the County road network to allow for sustained growth will support the efficient movement of goods and people into the future. While personal automobiles are anticipated to remain the primary function of the County road network, the TMP will consider opportunities to support a multi - modal transportation network and investments in alternative travel modes along the County road network (e.g. cycling and transit). These alternative transportation modes will need to be integrated into road network planning, design and construction, and be guided by a safety lens to protect the safe movement of vulnerable road users and drivers alike. County roads can serve as key transit and cycling connections between the County's settlement areas. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 197 of 328 145 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 12.1.1 Needs and Issues The following County road network needs and issues are identified as key priorities: • Respond to anticipated growth in both passenger vehicle and truck traffic from major developments: Employment in the region is growing, with the recent opening of the Amazon Fulfillment Centre in Southwold, as well as the electric vehicle battery cell plant in St. Thomas that will significantly add to and shift commuting patterns. Significant impacts to County roads are expected, and improvements and/or expansions to the County road network, especially routes that serve north -south connectivity may be needed. Lands that may be required for future road widening protected for this purpose. • Respond to road network impacts expected from a growing population in the region: Elgin County and the region are accommodating more residents, and County roads will increasingly serve as a bypass network of St. Thomas as the City experiences potentially increasingly congested streets. Anticipated growth in Elgin County may strain future road network capacities. The population of Elgin County will grow by about 44% by 2054, with growth concentrated around St. Thomas and in the central and eastern parts of the County. This is underscored by the provincially designated residential development in Central Elgin, which is expected house 10,000 to 15,000 new residents. • Accommodate different modes of transportation safely and efficiently through Aylmer: Through public input, it was noted that bypasses are desired around downtowns, particularly around Aylmer, to improve the safety and experience for all road users and improve truck routing and efficiency. The Province has recently removed the controlled -access highway designation from a portion of land that had been reserved for a future Aylmer bypass; therefore, the challenges faced by having trucks and other vehicles traversing downtown Aylmer on Highway 3 will need to be resolved by different means. • Consider the needs of seasonal traffic to support the County's economy: Seasonal traffic and visitors are vital to Elgin County's economy. Ensuring an efficient and connected road network, as well as travel options to and from recreational areas, will be important to continuing to draw visitors to the area. A need at the outset of the TMP study has since been met, that of updating the County's road classification framework based on the following: • Clarifying the role and function of County roadways to facilitate decision -making and design; and mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 198 of 328 146 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Improving the type of service the road provides based on new categories that recognize the different context of roadways. The new framework —developed as part of this TMP study prior to the study's pause and adopted by the new Elgin County Official Plan (2024)—designates roads as rural vs. urban to help the County best manage growth over time. 12.1.2 Opportunities The following overarching opportunities have been identified as potential responses to the needs and issues of the County's road network. • Explore suitable alternatives, and identify the best solution, to accommodating employment and population growth: Phase II of the TMP study will consider alternative solutions and explore where improvements will be needed to ensure the road network can accommodate forecasted pressures throughout the County. Maintaining adequate internal connections in Elgin County, as well as external connections to and from Elgin County, are key considerations for the TMP study. As considerable growth in peak - direction work trips is expected, assessment of through trips between St. Thomas and London and the growth pressures placed on County roads is also needed. • Consider improvements for safer sharing of space for vulnerable road users: Safety considerations relating to sharing roads with vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists are a top concern among County residents. A "complete streets" approach can be adopted throughout the County road network that considers the needs of cyclists, transit riders, agricultural equipment, goods movement and population groups unique to Elgin County when making road planning and design decisions. • Implement intersection improvements and modifications: Considerations for operational improvements such as changes to signal timing or installing signal lights should be considered at locations with identified constraints. Potential locations for improvements were assessed through a traffic operations analysis for existing conditions during Phase I of the TMP study, and will be further considered as part of Phases II and III for future conditions. In addition to the County's first roundabout implemented at County Road 56 and County Road 28, there are opportunities to identify other locations for roundabouts as an efficient means of improved traffic control. • Identify safety issues and consider improvements: The County's continued efforts to identify County road locations with a higher frequency of collisions and implement mitigating measures to improve road user safety (e.g. signage, roundabouts, etc.) is a top mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 199 of 328 147 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin priority. Excessive vehicle speed on selected rural roads was a commonly expressed concern of County residents. • Conduct a County road rationalization review: Over recent decades, the County of Elgin has taken on responsibility of long distances of former provincial highways, while also retaining responsibility for lower -volume roadways that may not serve a County travel function. A road rationalization exercise may recommend download of County road segments to local municipalities, or upload of local municipal roads to the County. Ultimately, this will help ensure that the County is better positioned to focus on roads that genuinely serve a County interest, and support anticipated north - south connectivity between St. Thomas and the City of London. This will also help to better position the County to refocus resources on other initiatives such as supporting key active transportation connections and transit initiatives. Similarly, County jurisdiction over selected bridges on local roads in the County can be reviewed to determine whether continued County investment in maintaining these bridges is justified. • Support goods movement throughout the County: Opportunities to identify and improve key goods movement corridors, with a focus on commercial vehicles as part of a multi -modal and road safety framework, can help ensure a continued high -quality goods movement network. • Strengthen local economic and tourism opportunities: Opportunities to enhance the Elgin experience should be considered, with a focus on prioritizing road improvements to key tourism destinations. • Consider the needs of unique populations: Elgin County has unique populations including traditional Amish and Mennonite communities that prefer to use non -motorized means of transportation such as horse-drawn carriages. Innovative means of supporting these populations as they travel on or alongside County roads should be explored. Opportunities to improve the road network at specific locations will be further assessed in Phase II of the TMP study, including the potential identification of additional locations through further analysis. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 200 of 328 148 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 12.2 Expand Active Transportation Connections and Infrastructure The TM will update the Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling Master Plan, as was presented in Section 5.2.3, to increase active transportation facilities, improve safety and better connect communities. The TMP will look to ensuring connectivity to the St. Thomas network, as well as to those of adjacent municipalities, with consideration for larger inter -regional trail networks. Enhancing the safety of active transportation options and improving connections between travel modes is vital to developing a robust multi -modal transportation system. A safe, convenient, connected and comfortable cycling network can support the growth of cycling for everyday trips and well as the growth of agritourism across the County. While active transportation can be enjoyable and provide health benefits, it also serves as an important transportation option for those who may not have access to personal vehicle transportation, among which may be the County's many migrant seasonal agricultural workers. Recreational cycling, commuter cycling trips, and regional trail users are important components of an inter -modal transportation system, though the County's interest in the cycling network is in creating a base connected cross -County network that local and recreational networks can link to. 12.2.1 Needs and Issues The following needs and issues are identified for the active transportation network in Elgin County. • A more complete, connected and safe cycling network is strongly desired: Cycling connections between settlement areas and to inter -regional cycling networks are needed to encourage cycling. The network should be both responsive to current cycling needs and adaptive to future growth throughout Elgin County. Safer and more comfortable connections are desired throughout Elgin County, with an emphasis on increased separation of cyclists from vehicular traffic (e.g. buffered paved shoulders, bike lanes). • Other supportive infrastructure, maintenance and strategies are also needed to support the uptake and safety of active transportation users: Other considerations that need to be addressed include the provision of supportive infrastructure for both walking and cycling (e.g. night-time lighting, benches, rest areas, water stations, bike repair stations, etc.). Additionally, road surfaces not suitable for cycling (e.g. bridges with steel grates) should be avoided. Maintenance factors should also be addressed, such as sweeping gravel from paved shoulders and clearing snow on key mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 201 of 328 149 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin corridors in the winter season. Finally, removing confusing signage (e.g. "Share the Road Ends") can lead to better safety outcomes. 12.2.2 Opportunities The following opportunities were identified to address the County's active transportation needs: • Prioritize a complete and connected network: Update the Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling Plan based on industry best practices, design standards, public feedback and stakeholder inputs, with a focus on developing meaningful connections throughout the County and to adjacent municipalities (e.g. a safe route between St. Thomas towards London). Expand the trails network and connect to existing trails. • Prioritize safe cycling connections: Apply a safety lens in the planning and development of a multi -modal transportation system, with considerations for "complete streets" that safely accommodate different users and uses, including accommodations for cyclists. The recently updated OTM Book 18 provides improved guidance to help the County of Elgin follow best practices in designing its cycling facilities. • Work with Local Municipal Partners and consider a County "trails connecting communities" program: In some instances, the most appropriate facility to include in a County cycling network may be along local municipal roadways rather than County roads due to cost and safety considerations. Consultation with the local municipalities will be important throughout the network development process, and some form of County support of local municipal cycling routes on the County network could be considered. • Work with adjacent municipalities to ensure inter -municipal network connectivity: Some adjacent municipalities have recently updated their cycling plans but have not always included direct connections where desired to connect with Elgin's cycling network. • Develop an inclusive active transportation network: Create an active transportation network that is inclusive of all cycling levels and accommodating to all abilities, with a focus on improving access and removing barriers. • Adapt existing infrastructure: Modifications to existing infrastructure to accommodate cyclists and other active transportation users for everyday trips is a good strategy to ensure fiscal responsibility. Additionally, opportunities to convert former rail corridors for active uses should be considered, where possible. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 202 of 328 150 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Take advantage of County road works projects: County initiatives to incorporate bike lanes or paved shoulders as part of road resurfacing projects are great opportunities to expand the cycling network at lower cost compared to implementing such projects independent of other work. Intersection improvement projects such as roundabouts also need to consider how to enhance the safety of all road users. • Support cycling tourism: Consider the tourism opportunities of the Waterfront Trail, and support recreational cycling and agritourism along key routes by improving available cycling facilities and amenities. Develop cycling supportive strategies aimed at promoting the cycling network, as well as assisting Local Municipal Partners to grow the network along local municipal roads. • Enhance education and cycling awareness: Education is key to a successful cycling network. There is an opportunity to improve the safety of all road users and uses in the County, including cyclists, pedestrians, farm equipment and horse-drawn carriages, through improved signage and increased education among all road users. 12.3 Explore the Potential for Transit Providing transit services can be an effective way to increase the multi -modal options in the County, optimize the efficiency of the road network, and improve local and inter -regional mobility for County residents, visitors and businesses. As part of Phase III of the TMP study, a Transit Feasibility Analysis will identify key areas for transit connections within Elgin County and to neighbouring municipalities. The analysis will look to recommend priority areas for pilot projects, transit policies and service partnerships. A review of existing and planned transit services in and around the County, an analysis of travel patterns, and engagement with stakeholders and members of the public all informed the needs and opportunities summarized below. 12.3.1 Needs and Issues Key transit needs identified in Elgin County are summarized as follows:. • Transit provision should be prioritized according to predominant travel patterns in the County: Commuting work patterns presented in this report show that work trips are primarily focused on workplaces within St. Thomas and London, though trips throughout the County, especially to larger settlement areas such as Aylmer, are also significant. • Consider connections to employment centres, including Strategic Employment Areas, the Amazon Fulfillment Centre and electric mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 203 of 328 151 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin vehicle battery cell plant: Transit solutions will ideally respond to the needs of different types of trip -makers. This includes trips for work as well as to daily needs such as health care and other services, shopping, and social visits. Those involved in shift work or part-time work would require services that extend into evening hours, and the Amazon Fulfillment Centre as well as the battery cell plant and surrounding industrial park are key considerations. • There is a need to identify a transit solution to connect to Aylmer: Although Aylmer is the largest settlement area within the County, it currently is not connected to the rest of the County or adjacent areas with any type of transit service. Respondents to the online survey indicated greatest interest in connections between St. Thomas, Aylmer, London and Tillsonburg. Municipal stakeholders also identified a need to provide transit connections to the employment lands in Talbotville and Aylmer. • Identify transit solutions to support economic opportunities: Taking advantage of weekend recreational demand, a local shuttle servicing the Port towns would benefit tourism and increase options for County residents and visitors to access recreational areas. • Consider a growing aging population, and other demographic groups, in the provision of transit: Residents aged 65 and older represent the County's fastest growing demographic and an important potential market for transit. As such, the design of any potential transit system will need to be cognizant of the unique needs in terms of destinations of interest, service design and accessibility. Other potential transit markets to consider include youth who may not always have personal vehicle access, those who are physically not capable of driving, and seasonal migrant workers. 12.3.2 Opportunities The following opportunities respond to the aforementioned transit needs in Elgin County, and will be further explored in subsequent phases of the TMP study. • Consider various means of service provision: Rural transit services are challenging to provide cost-effectively due to low ridership and relatively long travel distances. On -demand services rather than fixed -schedule routes have worked well in some applications and may be considered for Elgin County, as well as other innovative means of transit service provision. • Support the expansion of existing transit: Explore the potential for partnerships —and leverage the momentum of recent transit improvements —with the City of St. Thomas, Four Counties Transit, Middlesex County Connect, or the Town of Tillsonburg to expand their service coverage areas and frequencies to more of Elgin mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 204 of 328 152 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin County, particularly to connections with higher demand as identified by County of Elgin commuting patterns (Chapter 7), such as between St. Thomas and London, as proposed in the St. Thomas Strategic Transit Plan. The proposed routing responds to the needs highlighted by members of the public and participating stakeholders. • Support the provision of new transit services: Explore the provision of key regional connections directly by the County as a regional transit pilot. This would follow the lead of other counties such as Simcoe County in providing County transit services. • Leverage external support: Leverage supportive provincial policies and government funding for local rural transit initiatives. • Build on the success and lessons learned of other rural systems: The growth in rural transit initiatives in Ontario demonstrates valuable insight for the potential deployment of transit in Elgin County, and is a key strategy in increasing the feasibility of non -auto travel modes. 12.4 Support the Movement of Goods to, from and within Elgin County A focus of the TMP is to increase multi -modal transportation options. The needs of commercial vehicles and goods movement must be considered in this framework. The efficient, reliable and safe movement of goods is an important component of the County's transportation network and supports the economy of Elgin County. Identifying strategies and policies to support efficient goods movement and potentially improved facilities will be developed in subsequent phases of the TMP study. While commercial vehicles are the primary focus of goods movement in the County, freight rail transport is also a consideration of the TMP. 12.4.1 Needs and Issues Stakeholders and members of the public provided input on commercial vehicle goods movement issues for the TMP to consider. Drawing from the public online survey and ongoing engagement forum, as summarized in the Phase 1 Engagement Summary report, below are selected feedback about goods movement in Elgin County: • Bypasses are desired around downtowns, especially Aylmer, to improve the safety and experience for all road users and to improve truck routing and efficiency. • Better enforcement of commercial vehicles is needed, e.g. trucks bypassing the MTO Putnam truck inspection station, and excessive vehicle speeds. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 205 of 328 153 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Identifying a truck route network may help reduce trucks the wear and tear of trucks on local municipal roads. • Seasonal load restrictions on County roads can impact local businesses. • Increasing the use of freight rail would reduce the demand for trucks for goods movement. • Roads must be designed to accommodate larger vehicles, e.g. ensuring that any roundabouts can safely accommodate wide agricultural equipment. 12.4.2 Opportunities The following opportunities are noted for supporting the movement of goods from, to and through Elgin County: • Support the efficient and safe movement of commercial vehicles: Elgin County has a growing manufacturing and agricultural industry base. The TMP will recommend ways to provide a safe, efficient and reliable goods movement network to, from and within Elgin County while reducing the related safety and environmental impacts to settlement areas and vulnerable road users. While bypasses around settlement areas such as Aylmer may be preferred, alternative solutions should be explored in light of known challenges (e.g. cost, environmental impact, timeline, etc.). • Support truck enforcement: The issue of trucks avoiding MTO's Putnam Truck Inspection Station on Highway 401 and diverting onto County roads is a longstanding issue, and the speed and volume of these trucks is a concern to local residents, as noted in the Phase 1 Engagement Summary report. The County could work with MTO staff to identify strategic and safe locations for laybys along County roads to conduct periodic inspections and provide safe space for vehicles to pull over as needed. This may discourage trucks from using County roads to pass the Putnam Truck Inspection Station. • Support the provision of freight rail: Elgin County is served by a Canadian National (CN) Railway spur and the Ontario Southland Railway, both of which connect to the CN mainline in London. The TMP will investigate strategies to support freight rail transport and protect for the current and future movement of people and goods by rail. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 206 of 328 154 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 12.5 Develop Supporting Strategies and Policies To set the direction for developing a multi -modal transportation system in Elgin County that responds to local needs and takes advantage of available opportunities, investments in infrastructure must also be supported by targeted policies and strategies. While the needs and opportunities developed as part of Phase I are relatively high-level, they will be further refined to recommended solutions as part of Phase II of the TMP, followed by the development of supporting strategies in Phase III. The TMP study will develop various transportation strategies to support a multi - modal transportation network in Elgin County. In addition to the subsequently discussed transportation components, the TMP study will undertake a community and utilities review, develop road design guidelines, and a roundabout screening tool. The following needs and opportunities for various components of the transportation system have been identified to support the County's investment in transportation infrastructure: • Safety Strategy: A review of existing practices related to road safety monitoring will be reviewed and potential enhancements recommended. Safety considerations should be integrated in standard road planning and design, and will be tailored to respond to local needs as identified through an analysis of collision data as well as public and stakeholder input. A priority on safety supports many TMP tasks including road classification, road network planning, active transportation planning, commercial vehicles and road signage. • Travel Demand Management: By altering how trips are made in Elgin County, there is an opportunity to optimize the existing road network and help support greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. The TMP can help the County adopt TDM initiatives, programs, and modal strategies that are applicable to local and interregional travel patterns and are based on contemporary best practices. TDM strategies to consider in the subsequent phases of the TMP study include carpooling, awareness programs and travel information. • Carpooling: Exploring opportunities for commuter parking lots supports carpooling and could enable connections to existing transit services and transportation corridors. Potential expansion locations identified during engagement activities include the Talbotville Industrial Lands, along the Highway 401 corridor, Aylmer, Port Stanley, St. Thomas, Tillsonburg, and in smaller settlement areas throughout the County, as noted in the Phase 1 Engagement Summary report. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 207 of 328 155 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • Automated Vehicles and Emerging Technologies: The emergence of connected and autonomous vehicles and other transformative technologies will have a significant impact on transportation, and should be considered as part of the County's development of a multi - modal transportation network. The County should expect to expand and support the charging network, and remain up-to-date on the latest best practices and develop responses, where necessary, to support emerging technologies. Transportation technology policies should be integrated with other streams, recognizing that technology typically can support existing modes. For example, expected benefits of automated vehicles and other emerging technologies include new transit mobility services that can help people to live car free, improved road user safety, and an optimized County road network due to roadway capacity improvements. Specific strategies and targeted policies to support the integration of emerging transportation technologies will be developed as part of Phase III of the TMP study. mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 208 of 328 156 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 13 Summary and Next Steps 13.1 Summary of Phase I Elgin County is evolving, and the transportation system will need to respond to this change to ensure the travel needs of the County and its residents are met. The TMP is an important opportunity to align transportation policy and investment directions to best address transportation issues and take advantage of available opportunities for the County's residents, businesses and visitors. The TMP will leverage stakeholder and public input, consider industry best practices, identify local issues and respond with context -driven solutions to develop a transportation system that is safe, efficient, and dependable. Phase I of the first ever Transportation Master Plan for the County of Elgin consisted of the following: • A review of the existing policies, planning documents and initiatives in the County, Local Municipal Partners, adjacent jurisdictions and the provincial government; • The development of the transportation Vision Statement, Goals and Guiding Principles, all in which help direct the study process and shape the outcomes of the TMP; • An overview of public and stakeholder engagement activities completed to date, including key themes and takeaways; • An inventory of the existing transportation system and transportation components, and an evaluation of existing performance; • An analysis of how residents and goods move within and through the County today; • An analysis of the transportation impacts from the battery cell plant and the provincially designated residential development; • A review of contemporary trends affecting transportation and the important of the TMP to consider and respond to these trends; • A summary of the needs and issues identified through Phase I of the TMP study; and • Preliminary and high-level opportunities that respond to the needs and issues identified. In summary, the County of Elgin can work to optimize the existing road network for safe, efficient and reliable movements of different travel modes, expand its active transportation network to address the safety and connectivity needs of residents and visitors, elevate the role of cycling for everyday travel, and explore the provision of transit as a strategy to improve access and reduce single- mAm arr ards,Co" Tw Page 209 of 328 157 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin occupant vehicle trips. Finally, a robust framework of supporting strategies and policies will help maximize transportation infrastructure investments and the transportation network meets the goals and follows the principles of the TMP. 13.2 Next Steps The next phases of the TM P study — Phase ll: Develop and Assess Network Alternatives — will focus on responding to the needs and opportunities identified in Phase I. To respond to the identified issues with context -driven recommendations, the following steps will be taken: • Continue to assess forecast travel demand for the TMP's planning years to inform where future road network capacity constraints may develop, also apply forecast traffic volumes to intersection operations analysis to determine potential future operational requirements; • Prepare a list of potential transportation improvements, including road projects, active transportation infrastructure and transit improvements; • Develop a Multiple Account Evaluation methodology, based on the transportation Vision and Goals as well as Environmental Assessment impact criteria, for use in evaluating potential transportation improvements; • Develop and assess alternative planning solutions, each representing different approaches to addressing the needs and issues identified in Phase I of the TMP study; and • Identify the preferred solution and finalize the network recommendations. At the same time, the TMP study team will continue engagement with stakeholder groups including local municipal partners, adjacent municipalities, and the County Advisory Committee to inform the development of or receive feedback on preliminary transportation solutions and options. Following Phase II, Phase III will develop strategies and policies to support the infrastructure recommendations. Finally, Phase IV represents the finalization of recommendations, the development of an implementation plan and the preparation of the final TMP report. mAm arr a d'S,Co" Tw Page 210 of 328 158 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Appendix A: Detailed Policies and Initiatives Review of Lower -Tier Municipalities Page 211 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin This page left blank for double -sided printing. Page 212 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin A. Detailed Policies and Initiatives Review of Lower -Tier Municipalities A.1 Municipality of West Elgin A.1.1 West Elgin Official Plan (2023) The West Elgin Official Plan provides land use and development guidance to the planning horizon of 2046. Exhibit A.1 shows the Municipal Structure Map for West Elgin. TMP Implications: • The OP road policies speak to provincial highways, county roads and local roads, along with more specific policies for local roads including road allowances, minimum setbacks, among others. • The OP does not speak to other modes of transportation. A.1.2 West Elgin Community Development Handbook (2018) Vision: West Elgin is a vibrant, growing community where residents and businesses are engaged in ensuring the community's continued vitality by working together to support and facilitate business growth and investment. Action items to achieve the vision: Leverage West Elgin's strengths and resources Become investment ready Develop targeted information and communication Focus on downtown development A.1.3 Development TIS The following traffic impact studies were reviewed for relevance to the County of Elgin's transportation network. The recommendations from each study that involve County roads are included below. Proposed Elgin Business Park (2020, Rodney) • An exclusive southbound right turn lane is recommended on CR 103 (Furnival Road) at Hoskins Line, with a recommended storage length of 70 m; and Page 213 of 328 A.1 rr .LL LT 1n g Ej L.1 z T 1, t i L �'A ri TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • An exclusive eastbound left turn lane is recommended at CR 103 (Furnival Road) at Hoskins Line. The storage length should be at least 50 m. Seaside Development (2012, Port Glasgow) • No road network improvements are warranted as a result of the proposed development. A.2 Municipality of Dutton Dunwich A.2.1 Dutton Dunwich Strategic Plan (2023-2026) Mission: The Municipality of Dutton Dunwich is a rural municipal corporation located in an agri-business; small commercial -tourism and farming area. Notably being a progressive, proactive and vibrant community proudly providing a safe and attractive environment to live. Responsible and professional leaders in partnership with others deliver local, county and provincial -federal services to its residents and visitors. While striving to provide a variety of services and programs to the community in a transparent, efficient and cost-effective manner. Strategic Priorities and goals and objectives applicable to the TMP: • Vibrant Community: To promote a community known for "Getting it Done" in which people are fully engaged, and want to Live, Shop and Relax. • Economic Development: To foster, support, enhance and promote business and business investment. • Municipal Infrastructure: To ensure our infrastructure fully serves our growing community needs. • Financial Stewardship: To create a strong foundation for the municipality's future through fiscal responsibility. A.2.2 Dutton Dunwich Official Plan (2021) The Dutton Dunwich Official Plan provides planning guidance to 2031, which is aligned with the County of Elgin Official Plan (2015). The land use map is provided in Exhibit A.2. Page 215 of 328 A.3 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit A.2: Municipality of Dutton Dunwich Official Plan Schedule A Land Use Map I.I. Municipality of Duuon/Dunwich SCHEDULEW LAND USE PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS HIGHMAYSAIND ROADS Rail. Q-rAVRwd,, Source: Official Plan of the Municipality of Dutton Dunwich (2021) Page 216 of 328 A.4 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin TMP Implications: Section 6.3 Highways and Roads: [... ] County Roads' are intended primarily for collecting traffic from `Municipal Roads' and distributing it to `Provincial Highways. [... ] Section 6.6 Action Transportation: [... ] New and expanding commercial and industrial developments are encouraged to develop active transportation facility linkages to existing network connections. Major capacity improvements to the existing road system will only occur when the need exists and all reasonable transportation demand management options, including smart transportation technologies, have been previously considered and/or implemented. A.3 Township of Southwold A.3.1 Southwold Strategic Plan (2023-2027) Mission: To provide quality municipal services that support growth, prosperity, and exceptional quality of life through prudent management. Vision: The Township of Southwold is a vibrant, safe, and growing rural community recognized for its high quality of life and economic opportunity. Strategic Goals and actions applicable to the TMP: Managed Growth: Policies and programs that manage growth, maintain community character, protect agricultural land, and align with community capacity. Infrastructure to support identified residential and industrial growth areas. Action 1.2: Develop long-term plans and budgets for municipal infrastructure investment and operations. Action 1.3: Allocate sufficient resources and seek external sources of funding to address Southwold's hard and soft infrastructure needs. Welcoming and Supportive Neighbourhoods: Inclusive, resident - focused programs, services, and facilities throughout Southwold. Action 3.2: Expand active transportation links between Southwold communities. A.3.2 Southwold Official Plan (2022) The Southwold Official Plan provides planning guidance for a 20-year period to 2041. The transportation map for Southwold is provided in Exhibit A.3. Page 217 of 328 A.5 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin TMP Implications: • Section 6.1.4 County Roads outlines the planned function and other measures for arterial and collector roads as well as private access to county roads. • The OP states that the Township does not intend to open any new local roads, unless it is in the public's best interest. • The OP includes policies for permitted municipal services, public utilities and transmission lines in the road right-of-way. • The OP states that the "Township requires the development of interconnected and appropriate active transportation connections to adjacent commercial or residential areas as part of the construction or reconstruction of new roads." The OP also states that "Council may consider measures to enhance the safety and convenience of facilities for cycling." A.3.3 Development TIS The following traffic impact studies were reviewed for relevance to the County of Elgin's transportation network. The recommendations from each study that involve County roads are included below. Talbotville Subdivision (2018, Talbotville) • A westbound left -turn lane with 25 m of storage length be constructed on CR 3 (Talbot Line) at the proposed Site Access; • A northbound left -turn lane with 50 m of storage length be constructed on CR 4 (Sunset Drive) at Talbotville Gore Road (south). Timing of improvement should be guided by future monitoring and should be undertaken as part of future road reconstruction; and • Signal optimization and retiming and introduction of a southbound shared through/right turn lane and left turn lane and through lane at the intersection Hwy 3/CR 3 (Talbot Line) and CR 4 (Sunset Drive). This intersection is owned by the provincial government, so there is no direct implications for the County of Elgin. Page 218 of 328 A.6 U W v F i ::D W 0 J p o Z a 0 <. Lu Q 4— -t O fn p fl Q W `► W z Z CL O t O Ljj 6 i U s ~ 0 �� F O ::D O r a— - < cn W am Q Q Q s i— 0- u 0 aT F u v Of t� pp E II�IIII' �u wI i ( i� Tp( IP N NfJ q n m- ,Ub �� w 1 � �✓ �, r a� ry � � r pr rsr 1 l 1 '�'�s �( r �� yf 1. 14, 7 66 r tl��U'v r� a2 1 p �� flNII71INI�0AmON mN i uri m 1, ugh ' ,� �k r q 4�"a � �u ,✓' �'� �� I � t ,rp �a,� ` °� tr /�✓i��, 0,01 I� S a °( �r �wy N V A i �Lt ,.., �^Nil �.. �GLp pol "i �A1714P�y Hai mih�r g1 a„, t "a Yd, S n 0 r LL ,, Ul!"w.,, rf i� "N, �d g„ ^, §'� Y IY Y A1r r� �qN .' ,�✓ �I v"1W�rMV , r �0 UU��✓�)r� J,9�� n^� �� Po `� a gdw�" , NET' Y dV' (s a y( I • r' NrIt S�o �� ✓ � r jLL IN, d CL MIPn ✓� " -✓ � m �i� P a �✓ U n � J E N O N O O 4— O Q) 5 ai O U) ti Q TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 10065 Talbotville Gore Road (2015, Talbotville) • A northbound left turn lane with 15 metres of storage length on CR 4 (Sunset Dr) at the south intersection with Talbotville Gore Road is warranted. Southside Group Residential Subdivision (2017, Lynhurst) • A signalized intersection is recommended for CR 25 (Wellington Road) and McBain Line to accommodate for the proposed subdivision and other nearby developments (Jacklin Farm to the east and residential/commercial development to the south). Lake Line (2018, Port Stanley) • No road network improvements are warranted for the nearby County road intersection (CR 20 and CR 21). A.4 Municipality of Central Elgin A.4.1 Central Elgin Strategic Plan (2019-2022) Goals: A Strong Local Economy and Sustainable Community Conservation and Appreciation of our Natural Environment Adequate, Sustainable, and Affordable Infrastructure Good Governance Strategic Directions and Actions that are applicable to the TMP study: Strategic Direction 3: We will encourage the development of trails and parks. — Welcome initiatives on the part of the community organizations to develop and maintain trails, in accordance with the Trails Master Plan — Encourage developers to add trails adjacent to new developments in accordance with the Trail Master Plan Strategic Direction 4: We will attract new commercial and light industrial small businesses. — Identify how we can more aggressively promote Central Elgin as a business location and engage with potential new businesses — Work with third parties (including MTO) to maximize employment lands potential Page 220 of 328 A'$ TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin — Develop a plan and sequence (how, when, by whom) for servicing employment lands identified in the Official Plan A.4.2 Central Elgin Official Plan (2023) The Central Elgin Official Plan provides guidance for land use and development for a 25-year planning horizon to 2046. The Plan focuses on directing where and how Central Elgin will grow, while ensuring the protection of municipality's agricultural resources, environment and natural heritage features, and public health and safety over the planning horizon. The road classification map for Central Elgin is provided in Exhibit A.4. TMP Implications: • Road classification (urban collector, rural collector, and local roads) and road network policies will be reviewed during the TMP network development and road rationalization and classification exercise. • OP mentions that the County can establish truck routes that avoid residential neighbourhoods and areas. • The OP supports the notion of future public transit opportunities to facilitate connections to major community destinations. • The municipality encourages development of pedestrian and non - motorized trails and bicycle routes and "will consider adapting roads to provide safer travel for bicycles and pedestrians." • The municipality supports "economic development opportunities associated with the rail network system, including any potential future inter -modal facilities." • The OP includes policies for telecommunication and utilities to continue to advance the technology in the municipality. A.4.3 Central Elgin 10 Year Trails Master Plan and Implementation Strategy (2017) The Central Elgin Trails Master Plan provides a blueprint and guide for future planning for the trails network and guidance on the design of trail facilities and amenities. The Plan also serves as a resource for decision makers to support providing recreational opportunities for a range of users in the municipality. TMP Implications: The Trail Network and Cycling Design Guidelines will inform the development of the County -wide active transportation network to support network integration between county and municipality facilities. Integration with existing and planned routes is one of the objectives of the plan and most applicable to the TMP. The plan states that, "majority of the proposed cycling routes identified in the Central Elgin Trails Master Plan are found on roads that are the County's responsibility. The design of those proposed cycling linkages is Page 221 of 328 A.9 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin guided by the design considerations identified in the Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling Master Plan." AAA Central Elgin Traffic Calming Policy (2018) The Traffic Calming Policy outlines the screening process to identify eligible areas for traffic calming and measures for implementation to ensure its roadways and pedestrian facilities are safe for all users. The measures include: passive, vertical deflection, and horizontal traffic calming measures and physical obstructions. TMP Implications: The TMP Safety Strategy may look to the Central Elgin Traffic Calming Policy for guidance or location specific measures. A.4.5 Development TIS The following traffic impact studies were reviewed for relevance to the County of Elgin's transportation network. The recommendations from each study that involve County roads are included below. Craigholme Estates Ltd. (2021, Belmont) • A signal warrant analysis was conducted for the intersection of CR 74 (Belmont Road) and Seventh Avenue. The intersection is considered to have acceptable operations at full build out. No improvements are warranted. Little Creek West Lands (2019, Port Stanley) • Minor intersection modifications are recommended to be considered by the County as mitigation measures to improve the safety and traffic operations at four intersections- - Provide a 25-m northbound left turn lane from CR 4 (Colborne Street) to CR 21 (Warren Street); — Provide a 40-m eastbound left turn lane from CR 21 (Warren Street) to CR 4 (Colborne Street /Sunset Road) — Provide one of the following mitigation options to CR 23 (East Road) to CR 4 (Sunset Road): 25-m northbound left turn lane from CR 23 (East Road) to CR 4 (Sunset Road); or channelized right turn from CR 23 (East Road) to CR 4 (Sunset Road). — Provide a 15-m northbound left turn lane from CR 23 (East Road) to Hill Street; and — Redesign of CR 4 (Sunset Drive) and CR 23 (East Road) to satisfy traffic operations for the proposed fire station. Kemsley Farm Subdivision (2017, Norman-Lyndale) Page 222 of 328 A.10 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin • A 40-m extension of the eastbound left -turn lane should be implemented at the intersection of CR 4 (Sunset Drive) and Southdale Line by the time of full build -out (projected 2031); • A further 30-m extension of the eastbound left -turn lane should be implemented at the intersection of CR 4 (Sunset Drive) and Southdale Line to accommodate the Shaw Valley Development (a separate development project north of Southdale Line); • The County should monitor and review the operation of the east- bound and southbound left -through -right movements at CR 4 (Sunset Drive) and Southdale Line to determine the need for left -turn phases. 377 Warren Street (2020, Port Stanley) • No road network improvements are warranted for the nearby County road intersections (CR 20 and CR 21, CR 4 and CR 21). George Street/Wastell Homes (2017, Port Stanley) • No road network improvements are warranted for the nearby County road intersections (CR 20 and CR 4, CR 4 and CR 23). Page 223 of 328 A.11 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit Ak Municipality of Central Elgin Official Plan Schedule Al Road Classification Map Source: Official Plan of the Municipality of Central Elgin (2023) Page 224 of 328 A.12 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin A.5 A.3 Town of Aylmer A.5.1 Aylmer Strategic Plan (2024-2027) Five strategic pillars provide the framework for the strategic plan: Dynamic, Inclusive Community: We create unique opportunities for individuals and families to live, work, and play. Planning for the Future: We have a strong vision for the future, focused on opportunities for sustainability and growth. Economic Vitality: Aylmer is a destination which is a crossroads of unique heritage and modern commerce. Environmental Stewardship and Active Lifestyles: We are a leader in environmental stewardship. Public Service Excellence Goals: We offer user-friendly, streamlined services through our knowledgeable, approachable staff. A.5.2 Aylmer Official Plan (2020) The Official Plan provides guidance for land development and growth for the planning period of 2011 and 2031. The roads plan map for Aylmer is provided in Exhibit A.5. The Strategic Direction of the Plan ensures and enhances the small-town atmosphere by ensuring the quality of life and safety of families and neighbourhoods, encouraging and facilitate enterprise in business, striving for economic diversity, and preparing for the local impacts of a changing climate, among other directions. TMP Implications: • Road classification and general policies will be reviewed during the TMP network development and road rationalization and classification exercise. • The Official Plan states that there is no intention to widen existing arterial roads in a built-up area, except in the case of redevelopment. • Provincial Highway No. 3 is the main east -west arterial road in Aylmer. The proposed bypass will influence land use patterns and policies. • The Plan supports the review of pedestrian and cycling needs during all development applications to promote alternative modes of transportation and facilitate connections throughout the Town. Page 225 of 328 A.13 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit A.5: Town of Aylmer Official Plan Schedule C Roads Plan Map ,. .-. EMI er E Vol al r Ir lt�x,�` wr Q„ V � l I I ■ I NpniXMN+.' gr(1,�ne��AunwTArhr /r�y/Y y { �� ! ....',tt 1 E$ � I� � N f q i i� a� ,fi ' I p IA x o ;Y �✓ 'M l r. I.h h 1"�I CAP �� 'c ��hJ� Y� I �� G f � � t � F61M:m^�IY i� J� ✓v4 NYC � *i� �r i 4.J@.F O-1Ipb,L Y=w�..A N Arterial Roads, I''w*sw of 4gKjl0N13Y SCHVINALV "C"-ROADS PLAN ,�..u* PPINX .:��I r�;�Ywv aryr i�,ns w.+rtutr4pttr�ita2 w0 4"rlw tv 4t"Ad 67��!t1R Calloetar Roads 'CawdV a l I d;51"d7 FY,Y,ICI �,� r ,,1 Source: Town of Aylmer Official Plan (2020) Page 226 of 328 A.14 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin A.6 Township of Malahide A.6.1 Malahide Strategic Plan (2023-2033) Mission: Essential services that are timely, cost-effective, easy to access and aligned with policies. Affordable cultural and recreational activities aligned with community needs. Information that promotes understanding and participation. Vision: A Township defined by its rural character, close-knit community, and good quality of life. Values: Being flexible and solution -oriented. Partnering wherever it makes sense to get things done better, cheaper, faster. Taking a long-term view. The four Priorities from the Strategic Plan: • Engage the community. • Unlock responsible growth. • Maximize the utilization of all assets: people, facilities and technology. • Establish, document and implement service levels. A.6.2 Official Plan of the Township of Malahide (2022) The purpose of the Official Plan for Malahide is to guide development for the 20- year period from 2009 to 2029. The land use map is shown in Exhibit A.6. TMP Implications: Section 6.1.1 Roads: [... ] With the exception of new roads created as a result of a plan of subdivision and/or site plan agreement for a major development, and the proposed Provincial Highway No. 3 Bypass, the existing County and municipal road system is considered adequate to meet the needs of the Township over the planning period. [... ] The Plan is supportive of the development of trails on public or private lands for the purposes of active transportation. Page 227 of 328 A.15 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit A.6: Township of Malahide Official Plan Schedule Al Land Use Map Source: Township of Malahide Official Plan (2022) Page 228 of 328 A.16 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin A.7 Municipality of Bayham A.7.1 Municipality of Bayham Community Strategic Plan (2023-2026) Vision: Bayham is a thriving and welcoming rural community offering a distinctive and valued quality of life. Mission: Bayham will effectively invest the community's resources in public services and infrastructure that achieve an enhanced resident quality of life, innovative economic opportunities, and improved visitor experiences. Strategic Directions related to the Elgin County TMP: Quality of Place: Ensuring our public infrastructure strategies and investments enhance the capacity of the community to retain current and attract new businesses and economic opportunities. Quality of Governance: Ensuring the presence of a service -oriented governance approach that innovates, communicates effectively and continually builds community affinity, cohesion and confidence. TMP Implications: The TMP will support objectives under the Quality of Place and Quality of Governance strategic directions by recommending investments in the transportation network and engaging the local municipalities to collaborate on the development and implementation of the TMP. A.7.2 Official Plan of the Municipality of Bayham (2019) The Bayham Official Plan serves as the guiding document for development for the ten-year period between 2018 and 2028. TMP Implications: Section 5.2.2 Road System: [... ] With the exception of new roads created as a result of a plan of subdivision and/or a site plan agreement for a major development, the existing County and Municipal road system is considered adequate to meet the needs of the Municipality over the planning period. [... ] The Official Plan is supportive of the development of trails on public or private lands for the purposes of active transportation. In May 2024, Bayham commenced the Official Plan Review process. The review is currently at the policy analysis and consultation stage. Bayham Council is planning to adopt a new Official Plan by Q1 of 2025. Page 229 of 328 A.17 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit A.7: Official Plan of the Municipality of Bayham Schedule Al Land Use Map OFFICIAL PLAN OF: THE MUNICIPALITY of BAYHAMI SCHED,ULE'Al' MUNIMALMY OF SAYHAW LAND USE Pdgr.Waw, tl,W� I �W A,17.q,, R-- A, - NOW, Af Ga� fign 8229uts usaso ism L"'mo r--7 R--t-,w 0".1p PIS and Ow Poky AvenlurW Bajig E 9..a.n u r a s I H,gh—? ',I L R-d. R "t'.&K Wakm w.'" R$howk,,o VINW. 'AV tv— JIM W OMWA M., dad W. m,n,*OAAW 0f m"s-, -4 ""'0 aw —d wm w0111 0. -ftk", 1.4 Source: Official Plan of the Municipality of Bayham (2019) Page 230 of 328 A.18 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Appendix B: Detailed Policies and Initiatives Review of Adjacent Municipalities Page 231 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin This page left blank for double -sided printing. Page 232 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin B. Detailed Policies and Initiatives Review of Adjacent Municipalities BA City of St. Thomas B.1.1 St. Thomas Official Plan Update (ongoing) As part of St. Thomas' Official Plan review in St. Thomas 2046: Official Plan Update and Urban Design Guidelines, the City considered adjusting its Urban Area boundary to accommodate forecasted growth. Exhibit B.1 shows four potential settlement areas within Elgin County that were considered for urban expansion of St. Thomas identified as part of the City's Positioned for Growth Study. In February 2021, the City of St. Thomas adopted Official Plan Amendment No. 97, allowing for future residential growth in Potential Settlement Area 1, bordering the Township of Southwold. Exhibit B.1: City of St. Thomas Potential Urban Settlement Expansion Areas ILEGEND 1 IP omlW Sq M o mmoht ,tw o 0 b:PatanE��q M�nwtl�MNra-mrroara�� Area�Tm1 ..i, ��map0.mmwa wmwd� Munfki*f.,,,!Ii"� �^k mraM�mnmwM � � a Am �CanruW �J J ii %du al Sm um 9 Natural Hismsoo consarvallon aMMeraM"umYi v l / � � � ''�°"" � aru rr r � N.Vw "ruarcfmvx�� R�tierwrtPosrxv w" fll N S +41a�'uwo f d � I M 1 f Source: City of St. Thomas Positioned for Growth Planning Justification Report (Dillion Consulting 2020, Figure 2, cropped with legend increased and moved) Page 233 of 328 B. 1 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 13.1.2 St. Thomas Transportation Master Plan update (ongoing) In April 2024, the City of St. Thomas has commenced a refresh of the Transportation Master Plan. The study is currently underway, with the first open house held in June 2024. 13.1.3 St. Thomas Transportation Master Plan (2021) In November 2021, the City of St. Thomas released its Transportation Master Plan. Elements of the plan particularly relevant to the County of Elgin TMP include the following: • Road Classification: As part of the County of Elgin Road Rationalization framework, connectivity to arterial roads of adjacent municipalities is a factor. • Road Network Improvements: The following selected roadways relevant to the County of Elgin TMP are identified for widening- - South Edgeware Road from Burwell Road to Highbury Avenue (short term, 0 to 5 years); — Sunset Drive from Elm Street to the southern jurisdiction boundary (medium term, 5 to 10 years); — Sunset Drive from Elm Street to Wellington Road 25 (long term, 10+ years); — Burwell Road from South Edgeware Road to Talbot Street (long term, 10+ years). • Truck Network: St. Thomas allows trucks on most roadways, with restrictions and reduced weight requirements on some roadways. Corridors that allow vehicles with loading in excess of 7,500 kg per axle form an informal truck route network. • Cycling Plan: The St. Thomas Transportation Master Plan (2021) includes an updated proposed cycling network, as shown in Exhibit B.1. This proposed network serves as a key input to the update of the County's active transportation network as connectivity between St. Thomas and the County are important for supporting County -wide active trips. The current plan does not show some of the external connections to Elgin County that had been identified in the 2014 Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling network or the Provincial cycling network, but recognizes Trans -Canada trail connectivity. One addition to their plan to consider is a proposed extension of the cycling route along Sunset Drive all the way north to County Road 4. • Future Traffic: The City of St. Thomas anticipates seeing increased congestion on arterials such as Fairview Avenue and Sunset Drive, which connect to County of Elgin roads. This will necessitate road widenings by 2028 and increasing mode share of transit and active Page 234 of 328 13.2 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin transportation to accommodate these trips. This will also increase the desire to use alternative County roads to bypass St. Thomas where possible. • Transit: The TMP indicates expanded services to transit growth areas in the outer areas of the City, and confirms the opportunity to provide inter -municipal transit connectivity as identified in the St. Thomas Strategic Transit Plan (2020). Exhibit B.2 St. Thomas TMP Proposed Cycling Network Source: St. Thomas Transportation Master Plan (202 1 ) B.1.4 St. Thomas Strategic Transit Plan (2020) The Transit Strategic Plan (2020) was developed with the aim to attract new riders and maintain the loyalty of existing riders, while considering the city's projected population growth and aging demographic. At the time of developing the Plan, the City was operating five fixed conventional routes under contract Page 235 of 328 B.3 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin and a specialized service for eligible riders. Through public and stakeholder engagement, the following findings emerged and are relevant to Elgin County: • Preference for service between St. Thomas and Lynhurst (Central Elgin) without reducing service within the city; • Later weekday service (past 6:45 p.m.) is a priority/desire; and • Unsatisfied with route directness, route frequency, fare levels, comfort and the prevalence of user information. The Plan recommends a new Two -Way Service model that eliminates the one- way loops and a demand -responsive service to serve areas with lower ridership including the industrial employment areas in the northeast end of the city. As part of the Strategic Plan, a regional transit pilot between St. Thomas, County of Elgin and City of London is discussed. The proposed service includes three routes starting at the SmartCentres St. Thomas and travelling north to White Oaks Mall in London, east to Aylmer, and south to Port Stanley. The Plan suggests that provincial and federal funding would enable the municipalities to undertake the three-year pilot project. B.1.5 St. Thomas Cycling and Trails Master Plan (2017 and 2020) The City of St. Thomas was a partner in the development of the Elgin -St. Thomas Cycling Master Plan (2014), discussed in Section 6.2.4, and the Elgin County Trails Study (2018), discussed in Section 6.2.5. The City updated its cycling and trails network in 2017 and 2020, titled the St. Thomas Cycling and Trails Master Plan. The 2017 and 2020 maps identify the existing and proposed cycling facilities and trails including the Trans Canada trail, cycling lanes, multi- use trails, and signed routes. The City of St. Thomas released its Transportation Master Plan in November 2021, where an updated proposed cycling network was included. The proposed plan is shown in Section B.1.3. B.1.6 Major Arterial Roadway Connection Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (2024) The City of St. Thomas retained Arcadis to conduct a Schedule C Class Environmental Assessment for a new major arterial road between Centennial Avenue and Yarmouth Centre Road to facilitate the battery cell plant and surrounding industrial development. The recommended plan from the study includes a new east -west major arterial road (four lanes) from Centennial Avenue to Yarmouth Centre Road, as shown in Exhibit B.2. The intersection of the new major arterial road at Centennial Avenue and future Street B will be roundabouts. The CNR spur will pass over the new major arterial road on a new railway bridge. Page 236 of 328 B.4 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin A multi -use path was considered along the major arterial roadway but was ruled out due to lack of safety and connections. Exhibit B.3: Preferred Alternative - A New Major Arterial Roadway Connection Source: Major Arterial Roadway Connection Municipal Class Environmental Assessment, Figure 4-4 (Arcadis, 2024) B.1.7 Highbury Avenue Widening Class Environmental Assessment (2023) The City of St. Thomas retained R. V. Anderson Associates Limited to conduct a Schedule C Class Environmental Assessment for the widening and extension of Highbury Avenue, between Ron McNeil Line and Highway 3. The purpose of the study is to recommend road improvements of Highbury Avenue to accommodate the battery cell plant and surrounding industrial development. The recommended plan from the study includes widening Highbury Avenue to four lanes plus a centre left -turn lane and extending Highbury Avenue south from South Edgeware Road to Highway 3. The intersection of Highbury Avenue at Ron McNeil Line, South Edgeware Road and at St. Thomas Expressway (Highway 3) will be roundabouts. Page 237 of 328 B.5 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin The City of St. Thomas has started construction on Highbury Avenue to implement the recommended improvements by December 2024. B.1.8 St. Thomas Urban Area Expansion Transportation Master Plan (2008) The 2008 TMP provided long-term planning guidance for a 20-year period to support the City of St. Thomas Urban Area Residential Expansion. A projected population and employment increase of 24% and 35%, respectively, between 2008 and 2028 informed the traffic forecasting and transportation needs to be addressed by the TMP. Forecasts indicated the need for greater north -south road capacity to accommodate build -out of future growth areas. The Plan recommends the development of road networks for the two urban expansion areas (Area 3 and 4) to allow for future residential growth and recommends extending the transit service into these areas. B.1.9 Traffic Impact Study The following traffic impact study was reviewed for relevance to the County of Elgin's transportation network: Orchard Park Meadows and Harvest Run Residential Subdivisions (2020) • All -way stop control is warranted at the intersection of Fairview Avenue (CR 27) and Southdale Line (CR 57); and • The conversion of Elm Street/Elm Line (CR 56) and Centennial Road/Centennial Avenue (CR 28) to roundabout configuration, as per the completed Municipal Class EA study, to manage the projected movements. B.2 Regional Municipality of Chatham -Kent B.2.1 Regional Municipality of Chatham -Kent Transportation Master Plan (2008) The TMP completed in 2008 is the first TMP completed for the municipality. The plan focuses on addressing various corridor function discontinuities which exist at the former municipal boundaries. The TMP noted that the CNI railway corridor, which stretches from Fargo Station to Elgin County, is in the process of abandonment and could become available for alternate purposes, such as trail development. As part of stakeholder engagement, connectivity to adjacent municipalities was raised as a key issue. Page 238 of 328 B.6 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin B.2.2 Regional Municipality of Chatham -Kent Transportation Master Plan Update (2020) The 2020 TMP Update supplements the 2008 TMP. The TMP Update noted the preferred and potential routes for autonomous vehicles testing, including Muirkirk Line and Talbot Trail which connect into West Elgin in Elgin County. The conversion of the CN abandoned rail corridor to multi -use pathway has been identified as a priority project in the 10 — 20 years horizon. B.2.3 Chatham -Kent Driving Forward Transit Strategy (2020) The Driving Forward Transit Strategy (2020) is the Municipality of Chatham- Kent's transit master plan. Transit ridership rose 23% between 2016 and 2020, and is expected to outpace population growth by 1-2% per year for the next five years. One pillar of the municipality's current transit network is a partnership with Four Counties Community Transportation. This transportation service is operated by the Municipality of West Elgin and includes on -demand service to West Elgin, Chatham-Kent's Ward 3, Southwest Middlesex, and Newbury. The Driving Forward Transit Strategy notes that this partnership will be maintained in the future. B.3 Middlesex County B.3.1 Middlesex County Cycling Strategy (2018) The Middlesex County Cycling Strategy (2018) will be used to guide planning, design, implementation and operation of cycling infrastructure within Middlesex County. One of the final recommendations is "adopt the recommended cycling network as a guide for the development of a connected and linked network throughout Middlesex County, and to surrounding municipalities". BA City of London B.4.1 City of London 2030 Transportation Master Plan: SmartMoves (2013) SmartMoves (2013) is a transportation strategy that will help guide the City's transportation and land use decisions through 2030 and beyond. The TMP does not mention Elgin County or transportation connections between the City and the County. The City of London is currently working on a new Transportation Master Plan. The Mobility Master Plan will lay out a strategy for the City's mobility network to 2050. The study commenced in April 2022 and is expected to be completed in 2025. Page 239 of 328 B.7 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 13.4.2 City of London Cycling Master Plan (2016) The City of London Cycling Master Plan (2016) is a guide for future planning, design, development, and programming related to cycling. The guide identified five aspects that were needed to improve cycling in London, one of which is connectivity. Related to connectivity, the CMP proposes a potential partnership with Middlesex County and Elgin County to implement linkages along major County roads which provide connections into and out of London. Additionally, the CMP notes the need to "understand and connect to existing and previously proposed connections in surrounding municipalities". The CMP also includes the goal of implementing a cycling education program, CAN -BIKE, to be delivered in Middlesex, Oxford, and Elgin Counties. B.5 Oxford County 13.5.1 Oxford County Transportation Master Plan (2024) The Oxford County TMP (2024) defines the policies, programs, and infrastructure modifications required to manage forecasted transportation demands to the year 2046. One of the goals of the TMP is to improve intercommunity bus and rail services in Oxford County, as mentioned in the "SouthwestLynx" plan, which would connect small urban and rural southwestern Ontario to each other and to larger urban centres. Another goal of the TMP is to integrate transportation services within Oxford County and with adjacent municipalities. Additionally, the TMP includes the action item to develop a Regional Coordination Strategy with government stakeholders, CPKC and CN to improve rail transport in southwestern Ontario. 13.5.2 Oxford County Cycling Master Plan (2021) The Oxford County Cycling Master Plan (2021) was developed using a three- phase planning and design approach. The Phase 1 report creates a methodology for learning, assessing and identifying potential improvements within the cycling network. The Phase 2 report addresses the identification, design, and implementation of a County -wide cycling network. The final report finalizes the study and recommends a 405 km Cycling Network in Oxford County. The proposed cycling network includes two Secondary Network corridors — one along Brownsville Road and another along Prouse Road that connects to Elgin County (County Road 54 — Pigram Road). Page 240 of 328 13.8 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin B.6 Norfolk County B.6.1 Norfolk County Integrated Sustainable Master Plan (2016) The Integrated Sustainable Master Plan (2016) is a long-term plan for water, wastewater, transportation and active transportation infrastructure to meet the needs of Norfolk County to 2041. The key objectives of the transportation strategy focus on maintenance of the existing transportation infrastructure, planning for connections within and outside of the County, and implementation of the new infrastructure. One of the objectives of the Active Transportation Strategy is to create a connected system by identifying "missing links and connections to create a continuous system of facilities." The recommended transportation network is the "Status Quo" option and implementation of the 2015 capital program. The active transportation (AT) network proposes a mix of a signed route and paved shoulder along the Bayham-Norfolk boundary (CR 55), which would require the widening of Bayham-Norfolk boundary road to accommodate a 1.5-m paved shoulder. Connections to the Elgin County AT network are indicated in the Norfolk County AT network along the municipal boundary. Page 241 of 328 B.9 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Appendix C: Traffic Operations Analysis Page 242 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin This page left blank for double -sided printing. Page 243 of 328 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C. Traffic Operations Analysis CA Introduction C.1.1 Analysis Overview As part of the County of Elgin "Elgin in Motion" Transportation Master Plan (TMP) study, an analysis of intersection operations was conducted for selected intersection with potential capacity or level -of -service concerns. Section C.1.2 was prepared in 2022 and is based on intersection turning movement counts conducted in summer 2021. Eleven intersections that were under Elgin County jurisdiction at the time were identified for traffic operations analysis, shown in Exhibit C.1. This section is organized as follows: • Section C.2.1 describes each of these eleven locations, and presents a traffic operations review based on 2021 conditions; current traffic signal timing plans were used to inform the analysis at all signalized intersections; • Section C.2.2 discusses traffic operations in a 2051 horizon year, based on anticipated traffic growth at each intersection at the time; and • Section C.2.3 puts forward potential mitigation measures. Section C.3 is a review of intersection operations, conducted to better understand traffic operations as part of the TMP Phase 1 update, and is based on 2024 intersection turning movement volumes at selected intersections. These intersections were selected as being more likely to have operational concerns either at present or through the TMP horizon, and are shown in Exhibit C.2. This section is organized as follows: • Section C.3.1 presents a traffic operations review based on 2024 conditions; Section C.3.2 puts forward potential mitigation measures. Section C.3 does not have an analysis of future -year conditions. Future -year traffic estimates will be developed in Phase 2 of the report, reflecting road network improvement alternative scenarios. For purposes of reporting on intersection conditions and findings, the intersections were grouped into zones, as shown in Exhibit CA and Exhibit C.2. Section CA lists additional intersections noted during through the first round of study engagement activities as having potential safety concerns. www au.a'.aa:;Nlis )rin Page 244 of 328 C.1 ................................................. . . . . ............. . . ......... LO a rx 5 L". ..... ....... . . E Z 2v (Y) LL- LO 0 3 x N TR m 2" T 1 g Fo IM . ...... . ... LO S 5 c 's U C � ` 0 o" us 0 J oI. w m N LO (D o 00 AP M, cu d Q 0 2i (Y) QI ) Lo N CY) �P p'O cWy N 01 Yj I c uj �Ti lo� IV P14 4q, a) E iv U) 0 ..0 -FD .2- E LU 0 Z 0 C) cv 04 CD C%4 M CD- (D CD- U) CD- U) F- co N CY) 4-- 0 LO 'IT N (D 0) m 0— LO ry . . ....... . m k It 04 _7" -771 (,N4 ry I E L 4' J` A", % a 101 0 0 C: C: LO LA. Z 42 ? 'M' Lr 0) o C. S 0) w co N (Y) 4- 0 (C) 'IT N (1) TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C.1.2 Analysis Approach The traffic operations analysis was conducted using the software package Synchro 11, which is based on the Highway Capacity Manual methodology. It should be noted that Synchro only considers the road conditions in the immediate vicinity of the intersection, and does not consider upstream or downstream road characteristics upstream or downstream. The following critical traffic operations thresholds were used in this analysis to identify road network capacity constraints: The volume -to -capacity (v/c) ratio for through movements, exclusive turning movements, or shared through/turning movements exceeds 0.90.7 Level of service (LOS), based on average delay per vehicle, meets or exceeds LOS "E" for through movements, exclusive turning movements, or shared through/turning movement; and 95th percentile queue storage surpasses lane storage. It should be noted that mitigation measures selected to address operations exceeding critical thresholds should have regard for the context, cost / benefit, impacts on road -user safety, and other community priorities. C.2 Traffic Operations Review — Year 2021 Base C.2.1 2021 Existing Conditions Analysis This section analyses intersection traffic operations at eleven intersections based on 2021 conditions. C.2.1.1 Zone 1: West Elgin Existing Road Network The lane and traffic control configurations (e.g. stop sign or signalized intersection) for each analysis location in Zone 1 is shown as Exhibit C.3. An aerial view of each intersection, along with notes on operational concerns (such as atypical geometric design or potential visibility concerns) is provided in Exhibit CA. www au.a'.a(liis.a,(:)irin Page 247 of 328 CA TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.3: Zone 1 —West Elgin Lane Configuration 6) v 0 cu CL Main Street Main Street (CR Z) (CR Z) cm CL Talbot Line cr� Talbot Line (CR ) (CR 0 0, CL Legend, Not to Sca:1e Stop 5in = Si nalli ed lint;erseotioni a��a��w a��,eau.�a��:roa��,radii^��.�a.a�:�roa:°�ir�r�i Page 248 of 328 C.5 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit CA: Zone 1 Intersection Profiles County Road 76 (Graham Road) and County Road 2 (Main Street), Municipality of West Elgin • Northbound and southbound traffic requires more time to clear the intersection as Graham Road is geometrically offset. • Offset geometry of Graham Road poses pedestrian visibility risks to northbound and southbound left -turning traffic, as pedestrians are not in direct line of sight of vehicles until mid -intersection. • Despite the presence of tactile paving on the northeast/ northwest corners, crosswalk linework is missing. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) County Road 8 (Currie Road) and County Road 3 (Talbot Line), Municipality of Dutton Dunwich • Good visibility for all approaches • Large signage and intersection control beacons allow for vehicles to notice the intersection from a further distance. • Pedestrian crossing pavement markings should be added as there are sidewalks in the area. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a,(:)rin Page 249 of 328 C.6 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Turning Movement Counts The 2021 turning movement counts for AM peak hour, PM peak hour and midday / off peak hour are summarized visually in Exhibit C.5. Exhibit C.5: Zone 1 Traffic Volumes - 2021 C) �=r r)a) ;a B V O1 � O Q N o1N ODWO U1 W W W :', ', 4--14(40) [23] cooioi —10 (31) [18] j + I � f—8 (16)[251 Main Street � Main Street (CR 2) [44] (32) 30 CR 2 ( ) Ci [29] (26) 22� 1 = [21] (20)13 F-A U1 N to W W 0000 F-` F-` W G N W W J l L ~ 4-25(26) [16] J 1 L —28 (66) [47] Talbot Line - -a-0 (10) [4'Talbot Line (CR 3) t [13] (15) 19—# [36](45)36, 1 (CR 3) —t I W K)K) //�� Y l F N N n ! U'I'--' a% A A M• V 00 A O Q Legend Not to scale n_ = Stop Sign = Signalized Intersection [AM] (PM) OFF = Peak Period Volumes www au.caa:;Nlis.coirinii Page 250 of 328 C.7 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Traffic Operations Summary Traffic analysis results for each location are summarized in Exhibit C.6. As shown in the exhibit, traffic operations in the West Elgin zone were observed to be below critical thresholds constraints under 2021 conditions. Exhibit C.6: Zone 1 Traffic Operations Summary - Unsignalized Intersections, 2021 Graham Road (CR 76) and Main Street (CR 2) 7.5 EBTRL A 3.5 3.5 0.02 1 - WBTRL A 1.9 1.9 0.01 0 - NBTRL B 10.4 10.4 0.11 3 - SBTRL B 10.5 10.5 0.12 3 - Currie Road (CR 8) and Talbot Line (CR 3) 4.5 EBTRL A 2.2 2.2 0.01 0 - NBTRL B 10.1 10.1 0.05 1 - SBTRL 1 A 9.5 9.5 0.05 1 - Graham Road (CR 76) and Main Street (CR 2) 8.0 EBTRL A 3.6 3.6 0.03 1 - WBTRL A 2.9 2.9 0.02 0 - NBTRL B 11.6 11.6 0.17 5 - SBTRL B 11.5 11.5 0.18 5 - Currie Road (CR 8) and Talbot Line (CR 3) 5.3 EBTRL A 1.8 1.8 0.01 0 - NBTRL A 0.5 0.4 0.00 0 - SBTRL B 10.1 10.1 0.06 1 - EBTRL B 10.0 10.0 0.10 3 1 - Graham Road (CR 76) and Main Street (CR 2) 8.0 EBTRL A 3.2 3.2 0.02 1 - WBTRL A 1.4 1.4 0.01 0 - NBTRL B 11.2 11.2 0.16 4 - SBTRL B 11.7 11.7 0.25 8 - Currie Road (CR 8) and Talbot Line (CR 3) 5.5 EBTRL A 1.6 1.6 0.01 0 - NBTRL A 1.0 0.8 0.01 0 - SBTRL B 10.7 10.7 0.08 2 - EBTRL B 10.5 10.5 0.14 4 - Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SIB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)rin Page 251 of 328 C.8 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C.2.1.2 Zone 2: Port Stanley Existing Road Network The lane and traffic control configurations (e.g. stop sign or signalized intersection) for each analysis location in Zone 2 is shown as Exhibit C.7. An aerial view of each intersection, along with notes on operational concerns (such as atypical geometric design or potential visibility concerns) is provided in Exhibit C.8. Exhibit V: Zone 2 - Port Stanley Lane Configuration �v East Road 3' (CR 23) fu r CL Lake Line Warren Street (CR 21) 1 n n O_ c� O _ s GA N Q (D (D e-h Legend Not to Scale Stop Sign = Signalized Intersection www au.a'.a(liis.a:�roa:°)irin Page 252 of 328 C.9 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.8: Zone 2 Intersection Analysis Profile County Road 20 (Carlow Road/Union Road) and County Road 21 (Lake Line[Warren Street), Municipality of Central Elgin Poor visibility looking east due to foliage, intersection control beacon could be beneficial. The south approach's recently updated pavement markings are beneficial. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) County Road 4 (Colborne Street) and County Road 21 (Warren Street), Municipality of Central Elgin Warning signage on the east side of the intersection should be installed in order to warn eastbound drivers of road end under low -light conditions. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a,(:)rin Page 253 of 328 C.10 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin County Road 4 (Sunset Drive) and County Road 23 (East Road), Municipality of Central Elgin • Warning signage on the west side of the intersection should be installed in order to warn westboud drivers of road end under low -light conditions. Pavement markings are bright and legible. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) Turning Movement Counts The turning movement counts for AM peak hour, PM peak hour and midday / off peak hour are summarized visually in Exhibit C.9. Traffic Operations Summary Traffic analysis results for each location are summarized in Exhibit C.10. Traffic operations at the intersections in the Port Stanley zone were observed to be below critical thresholds constraints under 2021 conditions. www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a,(:)irin Page 254 of 328 C.11 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.9: Zone 2 Traffic Volumes — 2021 nM �v M ao 0 W� W O (p N O1, 1O L-82 (107) [70] C f--13 (23) [24] � +I East Road n o' t �' (CR 23) HH 0 70 M Ln .. fu lP N H 1pP lP W O FAN �lO W r�o L-17(49) L [32] �� —8 (55) [15] 53 (231) : Lake Line Warren Street t [4] (1) 1 � t [861 6] (1 (132) 76�� [41] (30)14 t (CR 21) [14](18)10 [12] (17) 6 1p FHw NOD l0 l0 F W N w F- ri r W 7, �"� W r O O1 n O � O M M M rr Legend Not to Scale Stop Sign = Signalized Intersection [AM] (PM) OFF = Peak Period Volumes www au.caa:;Nlis.coirinii Page 255 of 328 C.12 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.10: Zone 2 Traffic Operations Summary — Unsignalized Intersections, 2021 %" /n/m/ m Carlow Road/ Road .: WarrenUnion Street Colborne Street '' Street SunsetWarren - • East Road (CR Carlow Road/ Union Road (CR 20) and Lake Line/ Warren Street Colborne Street '' Street SunsetWarren - • East Road (CR ®�®® CarlowRoad/ Union Road (CR 20) and Lake Line/ Warren Street Colborne Street ' Warren Street Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SIB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.c.aa:;Nlis.croarin Page 256 of 328 C.13 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C.2.1.3 Zone 3: St. Thomas North Existing Road Network The lane and traffic control configurations (e.g. stop sign or signalized intersection) for each analysis location in Zone 3 is shown as Exhibit CA 1. An aerial view of each intersection, along with notes on operational concerns (such as atypical geometric design or potential visibility concerns) is provided in Exhibit C.12. Exhibit C.11: St. Thomas North Lane Configuration A � N O 7 0 O O1 = Q S �II O � p M W fD Ferguson Line M n F n c (CR 48) + b w O F+Q M .Ai A� 1 1 O O1 O � O O1 Q Q S Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) McBain Line T' -Jlr G fD f1 3 A � N O 7 0 O O1 Q 3 Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)ir.in Page 257 of 328 C.14 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.12: Zone 3 Intersection Analysis Profile County Road 30 (Highbury Avenue South) and County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line), Municipality of Central Elgin - no longer under County jurisdiction • Some signal time could be allocated to the westbound/eastbound movements from the northbound/ southbound movements. • Pedestrian pavement markings are faded. • Good visibility for all approaches. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) County Road 25 (Wellington Road) and McBain Line, Township of Southwold I Municipality of Central Elgin • This intersection is 400 m south of Hwy 3 with significant growth anticipated in the area (Ferndale Subdivision) in the future. • Although this intersection is between residential areas, there are no pedestrian crossing pavement markings, nor any sidewalks. • Good visibility for all approaches. • County of Elgin undertook a traffic study approximately 5 years ago. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)rin Page 258 of 328 C.15 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin County Road 31 (Dalewood Road) and County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line), Municipality of Central Elgin Considering the approach angles, the northbound and southbound lane stop bars should be moved back in order to allow a larger turning radius for left -turns. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) County Road 25 (Wellington Road) and County Road 48 (Ferguson Line), Township of Southwold I Municipality of Central Elgin No deficiencies were observed. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a,(:)rin Page 259 of 328 C.16 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin County Road 74 (Belmont Road) and County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line), Municipality of Central Elgin • Pavement markings on the northbound and southbound approaches should be added to clarify the right -turn only lanes. • Good visibility on all approaches. • During Phase 1 engagement activities it was noted that drivers have been seen driving right across Belmont Road without stopping and it was suggested that larger stop signs or stop signs with lights would be helpful. High driver speeds were also noted as a concern on both roads. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) County Road 73 (Imperial Road) and County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line), Township of Malahide • Pavement markings on the northbound and southbound approaches should be added to clarify the right -turn only lanes. • Township of Malahide (MAC) noted that they are interested in seeing what safety enhancements could be implemented at this intersection during CR 73 reconstruction. Image Source: Google Maps (2021) Turning Movement Counts The turning movement counts for AM peak hour, PM peak hour and midday / off peak hour are summarized visually in Exhibit C.13. www au.a'.aa:;Nlis )rin Page 260 of 328 C.17 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.13: Zone 3 Traffic Volumes - 2021 A � N 0 7 W .. Q m Q Ferguson Line LL (CR 48) [161 (17)15�I [17](22)12� Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) J l L McBain Line [161(19)19~ � [51 (8) 5 G mNN fD m r1 3 A � 2 7Q S C C7 � a r, z) [171 M w G 3)[5[51 f1 O fD 0 a Ln W 0 0 C �9 (8) [ll] °i�� 4-18 (19) [10] J l L r139(195)[120] r —65 (81) [61] _ `29 (52) [39] l �166 (101)[82] [111 )995r 139(93) 38� [17] 2 5167[99] 7092�} 6 [17] (52)2311 (29)19-V [11] (19 6) [37] p O Q 5) [17] N Q W A G 0 Wry y O 0 Q Q M Ln 0 C S W M. 3 0 A A pj — Q 0 V W Oi 0- 0 ro O1 w Q N 25 (27) [181 aNN I t--23(12) 119] r 52 (71) [38] 68 (90) 697 J 1L `26 (39) [15] Jm� 15(15) 1 1 [12] -� t� t 1111 (19)13� Ron McNeil Line } [19](16)15� (CR 52) WW 3 7 fD n fD A01 n0 w- V0 �� a 0 0 Ol Q Traffic Signal Timing Plans As County Road 30 (Highbury Avenue) and County Road 52 (RonMcNeil Line) is a signalized intersection, the current (2021) signal timing plan for this location is shown in Exhibit C.14. www au.caa:;Nlis.coirinii Page 261 of 328 C.18 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.14: Signal Timing Plan for CR 52 (Ron McNeil Line) and CR 30 (Highbury Avenue) Traffic Operations Summary Traffic analysis results for the signalized intersection location and the unsignalized intersection locations are summarized in Exhibit C.15 and Exhibit C.16, respectively. Among signalized intersections, the westbound left -turn movement at the intersection Highbury Avenue South (CR 30) and Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) was observed to be operating above critical capacity thresholds during both the AM and PM peak periods. Unsignalized intersections were observed to be operating under critical thresholds. www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a,(:)irin Page 262 of 328 C.19 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.15: Zone 3 Traffic Operations Summary — Signalized Intersection, 2021 HighburyAvenue South (CR 30) and Ron McNeil Line .- • �Q® . HighburyAvenue �Q® 0 South (CR 30) _McNeil Line �Q® . Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SIB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis rin Page 263 of 328 C.20 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.16: Zone 3 Traffic Operations Summary — Unsignalized Intersections, 2021 Wellington and McBain Line D . - ... and Ron McNeil- Imperial Road McNeil Wellington and Ferguson BelmontRon Road Ron McNeil Line Wellington and McBain Line see www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)rin Page 264 of 328 C.21 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin 1 i Imperial Road Ron McNeil Wellington and Ferguson Belmont Road Ron McNeil Wellington and McBain Line D . - ...McNeil and Ron Line Imperial Road -•_McNeilLin 00 Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis )rin Page 265 of 328 C.22 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C.2.2 2051 Future Conditions Analysis (2021 Base Year) Future conditions traffic growth was estimated based on anticipated population growth over the study horizon, on the assumption that travel demand will increase at similar levels. Because of demographic changes (i.e. aging population) and changes to commuting behaviour with the potential for remote/hybrid work, the estimated future auto trips were adjusted downward, for a minimum growth factor of 1.0. (Where growth factors would have resulted in volume decreases, existing conditions volumes were maintained.) The resulting growth factors are summarized in Exhibit C.17, and were applied to 2021 existing conditions traffic volumes to estimate 2051 traffic volumes. Exhibit C.17: 2021-2066 Traffic Growth Rates rem, Zone 1: West Elgin 1567�11111111 Dutton Dunwich Port CR 21 South Stanley Central Elgin - South Central Elgin - South McBain North Lin Central Elgin - North Central Elgin - North Central Elgin - North www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)irin Page 266 of 328 C.23 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C.2.2.1 Zone 1: West Elgin Given the very low traffic growth rates anticipated for this zone, the traffic analysis results for each location in West Elgin for 2051 would be essentially the same as discussed in Section C.2.1.1 for this zone for 2021 conditions, and traffic operations in West Elgin are projected to operate below critical thresholds in 2051. C.2.2.2 Zone 2: Port Stanley Traffic analysis results for each location in Port Stanley are summarized in Exhibit C.18 for year 2051. As shown in the exhibit, the traffic operations in Port Stanley are projected to operate below critical thresholds in 2051. C.2.2.3 Zone 3: St. Thomas North Traffic analysis results for each location in St. Thomas North are summarized in Exhibit C.19 and Exhibit C.20 for signalized and unsignalized intersections, respectively. As shown in Exhibit C.19, the shared westbound left -turn / through movement at the intersection of was Highbury Avenue South (CR 30) and Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) is projected to operate above critical delay and capacity thresholds during the AM, OFF, and PM peak hour. Additionally, the shared eastbound left - turn / through movement is expected to exceed critical delay thresholds during the AM peak hour. As shown in Exhibit C.20, the shared westbound left -turn / through / right -turn movement at the Wellington Road (CR 25) and Ferguson Line (CR 48) intersection is projected to exceed critical delay and capacity thresholds during the PM peak hour in 2051. www au.a'.a(liis.a,(:)irin Page 267 of 328 C.24 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.18: Zone 2 Traffic Operations Summary — Unsignalized Intersections, 2051 %" /n/m/ m Carlow Road/ Road .• .� WarrenUnion Street Colborne Street ' Street SunsetWarren - 4) and East Road Carlow-... Union Road (CR 20) and Lake Line/ Warren Street Colborne Street _, Warren Street Sunset Drive (CR 4) and East Road ®�®®® Carlow-... �Q •� •� 0 0 Union Road (CR 20) and Lake Line/ Warren Street Colborne Street ' Warren Street Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SIB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.c.aa:;Nlis.croarin Page 268 of 328 C.25 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.19: Zone 3 Traffic Operations Summary - Signalized Intersection, 2051 own . �- 0 South on McNeil Lin- .' ��® l e • South on McNeil - �- �M®® Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SIB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis rin Page 269 of 328 C.26 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.20: Zone 3 Traffic Operations Summary — Unsignalized Intersections, 2051 WellRoad ington 25) and McBain Line .. - ... and Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) Imperial ... Ron McNeil Wellington and Ferguson Belmont Road " McNeil n52) Wellington �o� • - �• ©a and McBain Line see www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)rin Page 270 of 328 C.27 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Imperial Road Ron McNeil WellRoad ington 25) and Ferguson Belmont Road Ron McNeil Wellington and McBain Line .. - ... - - • "• McNeil(CR 52) Imperial ... Ron McNeil Wellington and Ferguson Belmont Road Ron McNeil Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.a'.aa:;Nlis rn Page 271 of 328 C.28 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C.2.3 Potential Traffic Mitigation Measures Based on the above traffic analysis, the following potential mitigation measures could be considered to address capacity constraints. No mitigation measures are necessary for intersections in Zones 1 or 2. C.2.3.1 Zone 3: St. Thomas North Two locations were seen to have capacity issues in 2021 or by 2051. The potential mitigation measures below could address these. County Road 30 (Highbury Avenue South) and County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line) This intersection is no longer under County jurisdiction. The conversion of this intersection to a roundabout nullifies the potential mitigation below, which assurnes the intersection would rernain a signalized intersection. The shared westbound through and left -turn lane during the Weekday AM and PM peak hour was observed to be operating above critical thresholds in 2021, with conditions worsening to 2051. The shared eastbound through and left -turn lane is also expected exceed critical thresholds in 2051. Currently, the signal timing plan gives significantly more time to the northbound and southbound approaches in comparison to the eastbound and westbound approaches. As these approaches are well under capacity, more time could be allocated to the westbound and eastbound approaches without exceeding critical thresholds for the northbound and southbound approaches. By re -allocating 7 seconds of green time, the shared westbound through and left -turn lane v/c ratio decreases to 0.88, while the northbound and southbound approached remain under capacity during the Weekday AM peak hour. By re- allocating 3 seconds of green time, the shared westbound through and left -turn lane v/c ratio drops to 0.77 while the northbound and southbound approaches remain under capacity during the Weekday PM peak hour. It should be noted that while this lane exceeds critical thresholds during the OFF peak, it remains under absolute capacity limits in 2051 —therefore signal timing plan changes are not strictly required. This observation also applies to the eastbound movement's critical operations in 2051. Adding an extra lane in the westbound and eastbound approaches - similar to the northbound and southbound approaches — would also relieve the capacity constraints, but would require civil works at the intersection. If implemented, during the Weekday AM peak hour, the new westbound left is observed to be much closer to capacity and the through lane is observed to be well under capacity (v/c ratios 0.93 and 0.29, respectively). During the Weekday PM peak hour, the new westbound left -turn and through lanes are observed to be well under capacity (v/c ratios 0.63 and 0.33, respectively). www au.a'.a(liis.a,(:)irin Page 272 of 328 C.29 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Wellington Road (CR 25) and Ferguson Line (CR 48) The unsignalized traffic operations in St. Thomas North were observed to be below critical thresholds under existing conditions. By 2051, while Wellington Road (CR 25) and Ferguson Line (CR 48) shows poor level of service for westbound traffic in the PM peak by 2051, the approach still would operate well under capacity at that time. Therefore, while geometric improvements and mode -of -control changes could be considered, they are not strictly required for the intersection to operate under capacity limits. C.3 Traffic Operations Review — Year 2024 Update C.3.1 2024 Existing Conditions Analysis In response to changing development patterns in the County, including major planned industrial development northeast of St. Thomas and significant levels of planned residential development south of St. Thomas, revised transportation analysis was prepared for selected intersections in Zone 3: St. Thomas North, based on estimated 2024 traffic conditions, as well as a new Zone 4. St. Thomas South, based on fall 2024 turning movement counts. C.3.1.1 Zone 3 (Selected Intersections): St. Thomas North 2024 existing conditions traffic operations analysis was conducted for the following Zone 3 intersections: • County Road 73 (Imperial Road) and County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line); County Road 25 (Wellington Road) and County Road 48 (Ferguson Line); and County Road 74 (Belmont Road) and County Road 52 (Ron McNeil Line). Turning Movement Counts This analysis considers 2024 existing conditions turning movement count volumes, which were estimated by applying growth rates developed from on 2021 and 2024 automated traffic recorder (ATR) observations at each approach, and applying these rates to the 2021 volumes previously shown in Section C.1.2. The estimated 2024 traffic volumes are shown in Exhibit C.21. www au.a'.a(liis.a,(:)irin Page 273 of 328 C.30 U) W_ f— z -� 0 f— W O O >, Q 0 0 ao w z �C LUQ4- h U) O N 0 a LL, LU C,2 Z Z Q 0 LU o P — U Q 0 c 0 : �O a—� fn LU N aQC �CL CD N O N I N N E 0 v iF- ea 1- O i a� N N M O N N U .Q x LU v c J � N Z LM U � C V C v O o _ U 4; '^ uu� u O E Z .M...�..� > > w u�iw L19 (44) [481 p H O o J I L—180(250) [1871 `" - �' _ Y + f_19 (22) [14] Imperial Road Imperial Road [30] (36) (CR 73) [225] (338)206� 31-# � (CR 73) [21] (21) 20� 1 7. NMM ��u a L-13 (7) [11] t L �212(183)[134] Belmont Road -w- f-17 (16) [13] Belmont Road (CR 74) [1481 (229) 124� (CR 74) [28] (50) 38� N N N Q�v N d Highbury Avenue South rl � uu Highbury Avenue South (CR 30) (CR 30) Dalewood Road Dalewood Road (CR 31) �7m- (CR 31) E La ;�PF3 o� N MII N J ♦ L �492 (533) [407] Wellington Road f-34 (33) [28] Wellington Road CR 25 [97 (21) 23-J } ( ) [5001 (789) 513~ I (CR 25) [21M"M vO Q� cc N � m c c c J J J c 00 a — C CA CC 7V Z Ln UpC m Op C V C G 6L C O M U co N M 4 O N N c� CL TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Traffic Operations Summary Traffic analysis results for Zone 3 intersections are summarized in Exhibit C.22. The following operations conditions can be seen in this exhibit: • At the Wellington Road (CR 25) and Ferguson Line (CR 48) intersection, the eastbound shared through -left -right lane and westbound shared through -left -right lane were observed to be operating above critical delay thresholding during Weekday PM peak hour. These approaches also approach critical delay in the weekday AM peak hour (LOS D), but operate acceptably during this time. • At the Imperial Road (CR 73) and Ron McNeil Line (CR 52) intersection, eastbound and westbound approaches are approaching critical delay in the PM peak period (LOS D). www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)irin Page 275 of 328 C.32 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.22: Zone 3 (Selected) Traffic Operations Summary — Unsignalized Intersections, 2024 and Ron McNeil Line -... - �o nt Rd �o •• •• e -Bel . .. -•McNeil Line . - . - ... moo® and �o -• -• �• - e Ron McNeil Line Wellington �o� e T WE -awl Belmont -. - ... moo® • = e Ron McNeil Line - • Ron - �o , • e Line www auTroa��,�a liis.C.011r�r,11 Page 276 of 328 C.33 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C.3.1.2 Zone 4: St. Thomas South Existing Road Network The lane and traffic control configurations (e.g. stop sign or signalized intersection) for each analysis location in Zone 4 is shown as Exhibit C.23. Exhibit C.23: St. Thomas South Lane Configuration F;a Ar+ � 0 v � n John Wise Line (CR 45) v c� � Sparta Line (CR 27) Legend Not to Scale = Stop Sign Existing Lane Configuration r = Through Movement Lane Turn Movement Lane = Proposed Development An aerial view of each intersection, along with notes on operational concerns (such as atypical geometric design or potential visibility concerns) is provided in Exhibit C.24. www au.a'.aa:;Nlis )irin Page 277 of 328 C.34 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.24: Zone 4 Intersection Analysis Profile County Road 45 (John Wise Line) and County Road 4 (Sunset Road), Municipality of Central Elgin • Signal controlled (Semi -actuated east - west)/ Pedestrian crossings at all legs. Good visibility for all approaches. Base Map Source: Google, CNES / Airbus, First Base Solutions, Maxar Technologies. (Retrieved December 18, 2024 from: https://earth.google.com/web) County Road 45 (John Wise Line) and County Road 22 (Fairview Road), Municipality of Central Elgin Caution beacon (2-way stop east -west) Good visibility for all approaches. Base Map Source: Google, CNES / Airbus, First Base Solutions, Maxar Technologies. Retrieved December 18, 2024 from: https://earth.google.com/web www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a,(:)rin Page 278 of 328 C.35 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin County Road 27 (Sparta Line) and County Road 4 (Sunset Road), Municipality of Central Elgin • 2-way stop controlled (east -west). • Good visibility for all approaches. Base Map Source: Google, CNES / Airbus, First Base Solutions, Maxar Technologies. Retrieved December 18, 2024 from: https://earth.google.com/web Turning Movement Counts Turning movement counts for the St. Thomas South zone intersections were conducted on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 during the AM peak period (7:00 AM — 9:00 AM), the midday peak period (11:00 AM — 2:30 PM), and the PM peak period (3:30 PM — 6:00 PM). The traffic volumes for the single peak hour during each of the aforementioned periods are summarized in Exhibit C.25. www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)irin Page 279 of 328 C.36 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.25: Zone 4 Traffic Volumes — 2024 � T M FD. rr v M a°� ^ N^ CL U W W ry 1,301,3 N OIU UU7N n' —I' John Wise Line (CR 45) ~ W01N �� t--56(32) [241 NNE t--28(30) [231 1 47 (48) [35] j 1 d �83 (84) [58l j16 (53) [211 l f-10 (22) [9] [18] (26) 45--� f [30] (36) 51-4 [36] (55) 62---m- 1 I [41] (86) 70---p- i 1 �► [121 (17)13---t t'ww [3l (3) 8- 00F F' N O F NN CNN N W l0 •.• N F-� ONW �OP {A M rF v C� ^ N^ M l0 l0 U7 n Sparta Line (CR 27) 00Lnncn 4-18 (19) [16] �8 (13) [12] + f-9 (30) [141 31 (24) 13-1 3] (12) 9� N to legend Not to Scale 2---t 0 N Stop Sign "W� =Signalized Intersection AM (PM) [OFF] = Peak Hour Volumes � ao 1 = Traffic Movements = Proposed Development www au.caa:;Nlis.coiiinii Page 280 of 328 C.37 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Traffic Signal Timing Plans As the intersection of County Road 4 (Sunset Road) and County Road 45 (John Wise Lane) is a signalized intersection, the current signal timing plan for this location is shown as Exhibit C.26. This plan was implemented on August 29, 2016. Exhibit C.26: Signal Timing Plan for CR 4 (Sunset Road) and CR 45 (John Wise Lane) Traffic Operations Summary Traffic analysis results for the signalized and unsignalized intersection are summarized in Exhibit C.27 and Exhibit C.28, respectively. As shown in these exhibits, the intersections in the St. Thomas South were observed to be operating below critical thresholds. www au.a'.a(liis.a:�roa:°)irin Page 281 of 328 C.38 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.27: Zone 4 Traffic Operations Summary — Signalized Intersection, 2024 Sunset. ' and �0 •� �� John Wise �= Ie Sunset Dr - - - • John - Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SIB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.c.aa:;Nlis.croarin Page 282 of 328 C.39 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.28: Zone 4 Traffic Operations Summary — Unsignalized Intersections, 2024 Fairview Rd John Wise Line (CR45) - . - - �o®®� �• ®e ...... �o�� e Rd (CR22) and John Wise Line (CR45) 4) and Sparta FairviewFairview Rd �o�� - • ®a John Wise Line (CR45) 4) and Sparta Note: * First two letters represent approach direction (EB = eastbound, NB = northbound, SIB = southbound, WB = westbound). Remaining letters represent allowable movements (T = through, R = right turn, L = left turn) www au.c.aa:;Nlis.croa:)irn Page 283 of 328 C.40 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin C.3.2 Potential Traffic Mitigation Measures Based on the above traffic analysis based on year 2024 conditions, most intersections analyzed are operating at acceptable service levels. The following potential mitigation measures could be considered at locations with operational capacity concerns under 2024 conditions. C.3.2.1 Zone 3 (Selected Intersections): St. Thomas North Wellington Road (CR 25) and Ferguson Line (CR 48): Ferguson Line has a single -lane approach with stop sign control at Wellington Road (CR 25), the latter experiencing much higher traffic volumes. The Ferguson Line (CR 48) eastbound and westbound shared through -left -right lanes approach or exceed acceptable delay thresholds weekdays in the PM peak hour, and approach operational concerns in the AM peak hour (LOS D). (Eastbound and westbound vehicles can experience significant delays while they or vehicles ahead of them in the single -lane queue wait for gaps in northbound/southbound traffic, especially those making left turns.) However, these movements remain well below capacity (v/c ratio of 0.51 eastbound and 0.60 westbound in the PM peak hour). While geometric improvements and mode -of -control changes could be considered based on current conditions, they are not strictly required for the intersection to operate under capacity limits. The eastbound and westbound approaches are single lane approach, though the there appears to be sufficient width immediately at the intersection for two small vehicles to wait side by side at either approach. A potentially cost-effective solution to slightly improve eastbound and westbound intersection operations would be to formalize a very short 3.5-m wide combined left -turn and through lane beside a very short right -turn lane, using existing pavement or with a small addition to the pavement. (With increasing northbound and southbound traffic anticipated into the future, it will become increasingly difficult for eastbound and westbound traffic to find sufficient gaps in traffic, and a two-way stop control configuration's ability to accommodate side street movements will be exceeded. Signalization of this intersection may then need to be considered to improve future intersection operations.) www au.a'.a(liis.a,(:)irin Page 284 of 328 C.41 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin CA Additional Potential Traffic Operations Concerns Identified During TMP Engagement Exhibit C.40 lists additional locations beyond those analysed above, as identified by the public and stakeholders during TMP engagement as having potential traffic operations concerns. The comments provided and included in the exhibit have not been vetted for accuracy or reliability. Inclusion of locations in this list do not confirm that there is an issue that needs to be addressed at this time. The locations and corresponding comments below could be considered for traffic operations review in the future, especially in areas where traffic growth would likely exacerbate the identified concerns. www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a:�roa:)rin Page 285 of 328 C.42 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin Exhibit C.29: County Road Locations with Potential Safety Concerns, as Identified During Round 1 TMF Engagement %�r�rrfaiiiil�iii iiiiliii(i�i iii0ili � iiiiliic6i�i iiiliimlliiilii iii iilli�i�i ii �Iii�iii�lili��ililliiiil�li (ifii� Township of Southwold CR 3 (Talbot Road) and North -south (Union Road) traffic at this main intersection in CR 20 (Union Road) Shedden has long wait times. This road has stop signs with beacons for Union Road. Sightlines are limited northbound due to a building very close to the roadway on the southeast corner. Parking restrictions have been installed by Township of Southwold on the southeast side of CR 3 to improve visibility. If 85t" percentile driving speed is considered, sightlines may be insufficient, especially when vehicles are parked. A four-way stop would significantly disrupt CR 3 traffic and other solutions could be explored such as further parking restrictions. Planned growth in Shedden will exacerbate this issue. Hwy 3/CR 3 (Talbot This intersection is under the jurisdiction of MTO. A traffic Line) and Hwy 4/CR 4 impact study was previously conducted, which suggested (Sunset Drive) signal optimization and adjustments to timing upon full build - out of development. CR 4 (Sunset Drive) and County of Elgin has not studied the intersection, and issues are Talbotville Gore Road related to the subdivision development. The County would (south intersection) consider providing a dedicated left -turn lane once the City of St. Thomas provides services. Municipality of Central Elgin CR 52 (John Wise Line) There are visibility concerns at this intersection. and CR 29 (Wonderland This intersection will be redone as part of a roundabout Road) planned with MTO for Hwy 3/CR 29/CR 52; currently undergoing an environmental assessment. CR 4 (Sunset Drive) and During busy times, left -turning westbound vehicles going CR 45 (John Wise Line) toward Port Stanley block the through traffic and only one vehicle clears per cycle. Dedicated left, through and right lanes are suggested. CR 30 (Highbury The adjacent conservation area generates traffic; the bridge Avenue) and Mapleton just north of the intersection creates potential sight line issues. Line Mapleton Line is a gravel road, and gravel is spread into the intersection. CR 74 (Belmont Road) The Municipality of Central Elgin has recently installed a in Belmont pedestrian crossover and bulb -outs around the parking lanes www au.a'.a(liis.a,(:)irin Page 286 of 328 C.43 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin � r r / r � as traffic calming measures. These installations should ease safety . - CR 22 (Fairview Line) More traffic calming measures are desired in this community and CR 27 (Sparta Line) (e.g. a roundabout, bigger signage or lighted stop signs, or different road markings such as double -yellow lines to control irresponsible passing), as trucks, cars motorcycles speed through this neighbourhood and never obey speed limits. p of Mallahide CR 52 (Ron McNeil The intersection is currently physically constrained and might Line) and CR 40 not be able to accommodate planned future growth. (Springfield Road) CR 45 (John Wise Line) Vehicles often drive over 100 km/h, which is dangerous with the houses and families along the road. CR 45 (John Wise Line) Sightlines are perceived to be an issue because of the crest and CR 73 (Imperial north of intersection, exacerbated by the very high vehicle Road) speeds. (The County noted that collisions may be under -represented because the fire department responds to accidents.) CR 45 (John Wise Line) This is an awkward intersection, offset by 20 m, making for and Hacienda '... awkward turns. CR 37 (Avon Drive) Trucks travel south on CR 47 and west on CR 37 to bypass and ' • Truck Inspection Road) Public concerns include truck speeds and sightlines. CR 73 (Imperial Road) Reduced speed zones with flashing beacons have been added and CR 48 (Lyons Line) on all approaches. Town of Aylmer This intersection is a long-standing traffic congestion concern. Highway 3 (Talbot This intersection is under the jurisdiction of MTO. Road) CR 73 (John Street) This is a wide 2-lane road where drivers pass other turning north of CR 53 (Beech vehicles, which seems unsafe. A 3-lane cross-section or other Street) measures could be considered. CR 73 (Imperial Road) When turning on CR 73 from Progress Way, the red light is and Progress Drive very long. Since there is a lot it may make sense to consider a roundabout for this intersection when the road is redone. This would also have a benefit of making all vehicles slow down when - come into Aylmer. www au.a'.aa:;Nlis.a,(:)irin Page 287 of 328 C.44 TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN: PHASE I UPDATE: NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES Prepared for the Corporation of the County of Elgin www au.c.aa:;Nlis.croa:)irin Page 288 of 328 C.45 Media Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — January 29, 2024 Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus Chair to Take Leave of Absence (Southwestern Ontario, January 29, 2025) — The Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (WOWC) announces that Chair Mayor Amy Martin of Norfolk County will be taking a leave of absence from her role with the organization. This leave will allow Mayor Martin to focus on her candidacy for the riding of Haldimand-Norfolk in the upcoming provincial general election. Mayor Martin's leave of absence will take effect immediately. During her absence, Vice -Chair Kevin Marriott, Warden of Lambton County, will assume the responsibilities of Chair. "The WOWC Board thanks Mayor Martin for her work as Chair," stated Vice -Chair Marriott. "I look forward to building on the significant progress we've made together in addressing housing, infrastructure, workforce development, and the critical issues of mental health and homelessness across Southwestern Ontario." The WOWC remains steadfast in advocating for the priorities outlined in its 2025-2027 Strategic Plan —housing, infrastructure, workforce development, and mental health, addictions, and homelessness —throughout the upcoming provincial election, ensuring these critical issues remain at the forefront of the conversation. The Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (WOWC) is a not -for -profit organization representing 15 upper and single -tier municipalities in Southwestern Ontario, representing more than 1.6 million residents. The WOWC aims to enhance the prosperity and overall wellbeing of rural and small urban communities across the region. Caucus members work collectively to influence federal and provincial legislation and programs through advocacy, research, analysis and education. For more information, visit www.wowc.ca. Media Contact Kate Burns Gallagher, Executive Director Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus T: 519-495-6059 E: kate@wowc.ca Page 289 of 328 By -Law No. 25-06 "BEING A BY-LAW TO REGULATE THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE MUNICIPAL CKo111LlINIEel a9:I: KKe]Nli]0lil9101Ll to] a9:I: 9K0111Ll III WY0]M: Icc] ILlW WHEREAS pursuant to Section 238 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O 2001, Chapter M 45, as amended, every municipality shall pass a procedure by-law for governing the calling, place and proceedings of Meetings; and WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin did pass By -Laws No. 19-41, 18-38, 11-06, 07-36, 03-33, 02-37 and amendments thereto in order to make and establish rules and regulations for governing the proceedings of Council; and WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin deems it necessary to update the Procedural By -Law to govern the proceedings of Council that reflects the current practices, procedures and statutory requirements of Council; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin enacts as follows: 1. THAT this By -Law comes into force and takes effect upon passing. 2. THAT By -Laws No. 19-41, 20-47, 21-42, 24-40 and any previous By -Law inconsistent with this By -Law be and are hereby repealed. READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 11th DAY OF FEBRUARY 2025. Blaine Parkin, Grant Jones, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden. Page 290 of 328 let»:11ki10/41IFT1% By -Law No. 25-06 Rules of Order and Procedures Governing the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin. Table of Contents 1. Short Title............................................................................................ 2. Definitions............................................................................................ 3. Purpose............................................................................................... 4. Principles of the Procedural By -Law .................................................... 5. General Provisions.............................................................................. 6. Suspension of the Rules...................................................................... 7. Video Equipment and Recording Devices ........................................... 8. Council Composition............................................................................ 9. Inaugural Meeting and Annual Election of Warden .............................. 10. Appointment of Deputy Warden........................................................... 11. Meetings of Council/Committee of the Whole ...................................... 11.1 Location and Schedule of Meetings of Council ............................. 11.2 Notice of Meetings of Council....................................................... 11.3 Special Meetings of Council......................................................... 11.4 Emergency Meetings of Council ................................................... 11.5 Notice of Emergency Meetings of Council .................................... 11.6 Public Meetings............................................................................ 11.7 Committee of the Whole............................................................... 11.8 Notice of Committee of the Whole Meetings ................................ 11.9 Cancellation or Postponement of Meetings .................................. 11.10 Invalidation of Notice of Meeting .................................................. 11.11 Quorum......................................................................................... 11.12 Late Arrival................................................................................... 11.13 Electronic Participation................................................................. 12. Preparation of the Agendas of Council ............................................. 13. Agenda............................................................................................ 14. Changes in Order of Agenda of Council or Committee of the Whole 15. Matters of Urgency/Addendum to Agenda (Approval of Agenda)..... 16. Pecuniary Interest............................................................................ 17. Minutes............................................................................................ 18. Introductions, Recognitions, Memorials ........................................... 19. Petitions, Delegations, Correspondence .......................................... 20. Reports............................................................................................ 21. Correspondence.............................................................................. 22. Motions from Other Municipalities and Organizations Requesting Endorsement.............................................................................................. 23. Statements/Inquiries by Members .................................................... 24. Members Motions............................................................................ 4 4 6 7 7 7 8 8 9 10 10 10 11 11 11 12 12 12 13 13 13 13 14 14 16 16 17 17 17 18 18 18 20 21 22 22 22 Page 291 of 328 ON 25. Rules of Debate.............................................................................................. 22 26. Readings of By -Laws and Proceedings.......................................................... 27 27. Open Meetings and Closed Session Meetings ............................................... 27 28. Duties of the Warden and Chair...................................................................... 30 29. Council Member Roles and Responsibilities...................................................32 30. Restriction on Power of Members...................................................................33 31. Absence of Warden and/or Deputy Warden .................................................... 33 32. Alternate Council Member.............................................................................. 33 33. Member Vacancy............................................................................................ 36 34. Administrative Authority of Clerk..................................................................... 37 35. Organization of Committees............................................................................ 37 36. Repeal of Amendment of this By-Law............................................................. 38 37. Public Record.................................................................................................. 38 38. Severability..................................................................................................... 38 3 Page 292 of 328 1. Short Title 1.1 This By -Law shall be cited as the "Procedural By -Law". 2. Definitions 2.1 In this By -Law: "Act" means the Municipal Act, 2001 S.O. 2001, Chapter 25, as amended. "Adjourn" means to conclude the meeting. This motion requires a second, is not debatable, requires a majority vote for adoption and cannot be reconsidered. "Advisory Committee" means a committee established by Council to advise on matters which Council has deemed appropriate for the Committee to consider. "Ad Hoc Committee" means a committee, sub -committee or similar entity of which at least 50 percent of the Members are also Members of Council, appointed by Council to review and report on a specific issue. Once the final report is delivered and a resolution of Council is adopted concerning the specific issue, the Ad Hoc Committee is automatically dissolved. "Alternate Member" means an authorized individual who, during the absence of the Member for whom that individual is an alternate, shall act in the place and stead of such member and perform such other duties as assigned. "Business Day" means the days of the week in which Council or Committee shall conduct its business transactions and hold meetings, excluding Saturday and Sunday or statutory holidays. "Clerk" means the Clerk of the County of Elgin or their designate. Clerk means the person duly appointed, by By -Law pursuant to Section 228 of the Act, as the Clerk of the County. "Chair" means the position of the person appointed to preside, or presiding at, a meeting, whether that person is the regular Chair or not. "Closed Session" means a meeting of Council or Committee that is not open to the public, pursuant to Section 239 of the Act or any successor provision thereto. "Committee" means any advisory or other committee created by Council, of which at least one Member is also a Member of Council, which is established under any Act with respect to the affairs or purposes of one or more municipalities. "Committee of the Whole" means the Committee of which all Members present sit on Council and reports directly to Council. The purpose of this committee is to enable Council to give detailed consideration to a matter under conditions of freedom approximating that of a committee. When sitting as Committee of the Whole, the results of votes taken are not final decisions of Council but have the status of recommendations which Council is given the opportunity to consider further and which it votes on during a Regular Meeting of Council. "Confidential Matter" means those items of business discussed in Closed Session "Council" means the elected Mayors and/or Deputy Mayors or alternate(s) of the County's constituent municipalities when they sit in deliberative assembly. "County" means the Corporation of the County of Elgin. Page 293 of 328 "Delegation" means to address Council or a Committee at the request of the person wishing to speak. "Deputy Warden" means the Member of Council who has most recently held the position of Warden or has been elected Deputy Warden in accordance with the procedures of this By -Law. "Ex-Officio" means a Member who has the right, but not the obligation, to participate in the proceedings of the meeting, and is not counted in determining the number required for a quorum or whether a quorum is present at a meeting. Ex-Officio cannot attend a committee meeting if by attending a quorum of Council is created. "Inaugural Meeting" means the first meeting of Council after a regular election, as set out in the Act, or the first meeting following the election of a Warden, as set out in this By -Law, as context requires. "Majority" means more than half of the votes cast by Members entitled to vote. "Meeting" means an event wherein business is transacted for any regular or special purpose by Council or local board, or a Committee or sub -Committee of either of them, as the case may be, where, (a) a quorum of Members is present, and (b) Members discuss or otherwise deal with any matter in a way that materially advances the business or decision -making of Council, local Board or Committee. "Member" means a person duly elected to hold office with the County of Elgin's constituent municipalities, pursuant to the Municipal Elections Act, 1996 S.O. Chapter 32, as amended; or a person appointed by Council to a Committee. "Minutes" means a written record of meetings of Council prepared by the Clerk without note or comment, and the Minutes are to include the events of the meeting, a list of attendees, a statement of the issues considered by the Members, related responses and decisions on issues. "Motion" means a proposal moved by a Member, and if moved in Council or Committee, seconded by another Member, to adopt, amend or otherwise deal with a matter before Council or Committee. "Municipal Office" means 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario, N5R 5V1 or any location in the County subsequently designated as its municipal office. "Notice" means written Notice, except where legislation, By -Law or Corporate Policy provides for another form and manner of Notice. "Open Meeting" means a Meeting at which a quorum of Members is present, and they discuss or otherwise deal with a matter in a way that materially advances the business or decision -making of the relevant council, local board or Committee. "Pecuniary Interest" means an interest, whether direct or indirect, that meets the criteria set out in the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, RSO 1990, c. M.50, ss. 2, ss. 3. "Point of Order" means a statement made by a Member during a meeting, drawing to the attention of the Chair a breach of the rules of procedure. "Point of Privilege" means a Motion concerning the health, safety, rights or integrity of the Members, the Council, a Committee, staff, or anyone present at a Meeting. "Pregnancy and Parental Leave" for the purposes of this By -Law means the period of time the Member of Council will not attend meetings of Council or any Committee to which the Member has been appointed as a result of the Member's pregnancy, the birth of the Member's child or the adoption of a child by the Member. Page 294 of 328 "Quasi -Judicial Board" means a local board or committee that has been delegated Council's decision -making powers and makes quasi-judicial decisions. "Question" means a Motion that has been appropriately placed before Council or Committee. Only once duly recognized by the Chair and "on the floor" can a Motion be debated and put to a question of the Members for proper resolution. "Quorum" means, in the case of Council, a majority of Members, pursuant to Section 237 of the Act. In the case of a Committee of Council, quorum is a majority of the whole number of Members of the Committee, including the Chair. "Recorded Vote" means a vote taken on a matter of business, whereupon the Clerk duly notes the name of each Member present and their vote in the Minutes, as provided for in Section 246 of the Act. Section 246(2) of the Act specifically notes that a failure to vote by a Member who is present at the Meeting at the time of the vote and who is qualified to vote shall be deemed to be a negative vote. "Reports" means written documents by Councillors, municipal employees, committees, consultants or other individuals appointed at the pleasure of the Council for the purpose of providing advice, alternatives, information, and/or recommendations on various matters. "Resolution" means a Motion that has been carried by Council or Committee. "Rules of Procedure" means the rules and regulations provided in this By -Law and, where necessary, Robert's Rules of Order (Newly Revised). "Secretary" means the person responsible for recording the Minutes of Council or Committee meetings, the preparation of the agenda and the preparation of any resulting correspondence, as designated by the Clerk. "Special Meeting" means a meeting not scheduled in accordance with the approved schedule of meetings. "Standing Committee" means a Committee established by Council, comprised entirely of Members of Council, to carry out duties on an ongoing basis, as specified by Council. "Steering Committee" means any advisory body, roundtable or other body Council established to advise on specific areas of interest, with Members of the public and staff making up more than 50 per cent of the membership and Council Members or other elected officials making up the rest. "Warden" means the Warden of the Corporation of the County of Elgin, in accordance with the Act, and the term is interchangeable with "Chair", "Chief Executive Officer (CEO)", and "Head of Council" for the purposes of conducting Committee meetings. "Website" means the County of Elgin website address identified as mn�..Il41:!�.�:�.�:�.u1.l:![fl° .�:�.r .......... 3. Purpose 3.1 This By -Law establishes the rules of order for the Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin Council Meetings. 3.2 The rules governing the procedure of Council and the conduct of Members of Council shall be observed in Committee of the Whole so far as they are applicable. Page 295 of 328 4. Principles of the Procedural By -Law 4.1 The principles of openness, transparency and accountability to the public guide the County's decision -making process. In the context of Council proceedings, this is accomplished by: 4.1.1 Ensuring the decision -making process is understood by the public and other stakeholders; 4.1.2 Providing access to information and opportunities for input by the public and other stakeholders consistent with the requirements of this By -Law and other statutory requirements; 4.1.3 Exercising and respecting individual and collective roles and responsibilities provided for in this Procedural By -Law and other statutory requirements; and 4.1.4 The protection of basic rights by recognizing the right of the majority to decide, the minority to be heard and individuals to participate. 4.2 The principles of parliamentary law governing Council include: 4.2.1 The majority of Members have the right to decide; 4.2.2 The minority of Members have the right to be heard; 4.2.3 All Members have the right to information to help make decisions, unless otherwise prevented by law; 4.2.4 All Members have a right to an efficient Meeting; 4.2.5 All Members have the right to be treated with respect and courtesy; and 4.2.6 All Members have equal rights, privileges and obligations. 5. General Provisions 5.1 In the event of conflict between this By -Law and a valid and binding statute, the provisions of the statute prevail. 5.2 A specific statement or rule in this By -Law supersedes a general statement on the same subject matter. 5.3 If there is a conflict between two or more rules in this By -Law, or if there is no specific rule on a matter, the Chair will rule. In making a ruling, the Chair may consult the Clerk, rely on previous rulings or practices, or refer to Robert's Rules of Order (Newly Revised). 6. Suspension of the Rules 6.1 The rules and regulations contained herein that are discretionary and not mandatory under statute may be temporarily suspended by a two-thirds vote of the whole Council, with the exception of the following circumstances: 6.1.1 Where required by law; 6.1.2 Contractual agreements binding the County; 6.1.3 Amending this Procedural By -Law; and, 6.1.4 Quorum requirements. 7 Page 296 of 328 7. Video Equipment and Recording Devices 7.1 The County will make a reasonable effort to ensure that live streaming and video recordings of Council and Committee meetings are available to the public. However, there may be situations where the live streaming and video recordings may be unavailable or delayed due to technical difficulties. Meetings will not be cancelled or postponed due to technical issues with live streaming or recording of meetings if Council Chambers is physically open and accessible to the public. 7.2 If live streaming and/or video recordings are unavailable or delayed due to technical difficulties, the Warden or Committee Chair may, at their discretion, delay the meeting until the public and media may be notified. 7.3 Where a meeting of Elgin County Council is held at a location other than the Elgin County Council Chambers, it will not be live streamed. 7.4 The official record of all Council/Committee Meetings shall be written in minutes in accordance with the Municipal Act, 2001 Section 239(1) which states that minutes of meetings are to be recorded without note or comment by the Clerk. 8. Council Composition 8.1 Section 458 of the Act provides that, as of January 2, 2003, the composition of the Council of a municipality, the method of electing or appointing its Members, the number of votes given to each Member and the titles of its Members shall be the same as they were on December 31, 2002. On December 31, 2002, pursuant to By -Law 97-8 passed on March 18, 1997, the composition of the Corporation of the County of Elgin Council ("Elgin County Council") was: County Council will have nine (9) Members, being the Mayors from each of the seven (7) municipalities within the County of Elgin and the Deputy Mayors of the Municipality of Central Elgin and the Township of Malahide, thereby constituting the composition of such Council as follows: 8.1.1 Municipality of West Elgin — One (1) Member (the Mayor); 8.1.2 Municipality of Dutton Dunwich — One (1) Member (the Mayor); 8.1.3 Township of Southwold — One (1) Member (the Mayor); 8.1.4 Municipality of Central Elgin — Two (2) Members (the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor); 8.1.5 Township of Malahide — Two (2) Members (the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor); 8.1.6 Town of Aylmer — One (1) Member (the Mayor); and 8.1.7 Municipality of Bayham — One (1) Member (the Mayor). 8.2 The Head of Council, the Warden, will be elected by County Council from amongst the Members of Council on an annual basis. 8.3 Each Member of Council will have one (1) vote. 8.4 As provided for in the Act, the Councils of the seven (7) municipalities have the authority to appoint alternates from the Members of Council to represent the municipality on County Council in the absence of Mayor and/or Deputy Mayor in accordance with Section 32 of this Procedural By -Law. Page 297 of 328 8.5 The term of office of Warden shall be one (1) year. 9. Inaugural Meeting and Annual Election of Warden 9.1 A person elected or appointed as a Member of Council shall not take a seat on Elgin County Council until the Clerk has received the certificate from the constituent municipality certifying the name of each person elected or appointed. 9.2 No business shall be conducted at the first meeting of Council after a regular election until after the declarations of office have been made by all members who present themselves for that purpose. 9.3 The first Meeting of County Council after a regular election shall be held in the evening of the second Tuesday of the month of December, or at such hour and on such day thereafter as the majority of the members of the Council are present in the Council Chambers but in any case, not later than 31 days after its term commences, as provided for in the Act. 9.4 The annual election of the Warden shall be held in the evening of the second Tuesday of the month of December, or at such hour and on such day thereafter as the majority of the Members of Council are present in the Council Chambers. 9.5 Section 233 of the Act requires Council to appoint the Head of Council ("Warden") at its first Meeting. No other business shall be conducted until the Head of Council is confirmed. 9.6 For the appointment of the Warden, the following regulations and procedures shall be followed: 9.6.1 The Clerk shall take the Chair; 9.6.2 The Clerk shall prepare ballots for voting; 9.6.3 The Clerk shall inform the members that they are ready to proceed with the election of Warden, unless only one member indicates their intention to run for the Office, in which case the election procedure is dispensed with in favour of a resolution appointing the Warden; 9.6.4 The Clerk shall ask those members of Council seeking the Office of Warden to stand; 9.6.5 The Clerk shall announce that any person aspiring to the position of Warden shall be granted an opportunity, not exceeding five (5) minutes, to address Council. Candidates will address Council in alphabetical order; 9.6.6 Voting shall be by secret ballot. Balloting will continue until a candidate obtains a majority of votes. 9.6.7 If after one round of balloting, no candidate has achieved a majority, another round of balloting will follow. If no candidate has achieved a majority after this second round of balloting, each candidate standing for the position of Warden shall have an additional opportunity, not exceeding five (5) minutes, to address Council. Candidates will address Council in alphabetical order by surname. 9.6.8 The process described in 9.6.7 will repeat until one of the Candidates has achieved a majority. References to rounds of balloting shall be construed to mean each round subsequent to the opportunity for candidates to address Council. Page 298 of 328 9.6.9 By Motion, the Clerk shall be directed to destroy the ballots after the election has been completed; 9.6.10 For the purposes of electing the Warden, each Member of County Council shall have one vote; 9.6.11 The Warden -Elect shall forthwith sign and declare and read aloud the Declaration of Office and, on completion thereof, they shall take the Chair. 10. Appointment of Deputy Warden 10.1 A position of "Deputy Warden" shall be held by the most immediate past Warden who is a member of Council. In the event that there are no Past Wardens on Council following a Municipal Election, Council shall vote and appoint a Deputy Warden at the Inaugural Meeting. Voting shall be by secret ballot and follow the same procedure set out for the Election of the Warden in Section 9 of this By - Law. The election of the Deputy Warden, when necessary, will follow the election of the Warden. 10.2 Any Member who was not elected Warden shall be eligible to stand for the election to the office of Deputy Warden. 10.3 The Warden may request said Deputy Warden or any other member of Council to represent him or her at any Meeting or function where the Warden is unable to attend. 10.4 If the Warden, at any point during their term, is unable to continue in their role, the Deputy Warden will fulfill the duties of the Warden on a temporary basis until an election of Warden occurs using the same procedure described in section 9. Such election shall be held as soon as practicable. 10.5 The Deputy Warden attending functions on behalf of the Warden, shall be paid mileage at the same rate established for the use of personal vehicles for County business and any other eligible "out of pocket" expense that may occur. 11. Meetings of Council/Committee of the Whole 11.1 Location and Schedule of Meetings of Council 11.1.1 After its Inaugural Meeting, Council shall meet in the Council Chambers of the Elgin County Administration Building, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, ON or other designated location, at a time designated by the Warden, with regular meeting generally being on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, subject to such changes, additions or deletions to the meeting schedule as may be made pursuant to the Act and when Notice is given; 11.1.2 Council shall approve a schedule of regular Meetings of Council and Committee of the Whole for each calendar year, which may be amended. The schedule of Meetings is made available to the public on the County's website and from the Municipal Office; 11.1.3 As soon after the time appointed for a Meeting of Council as a Quorum is present, the Warden shall assume the Chair and call the Meeting to order; 11.1.4 Council shall always recess/adjourn no later than 12:00 noon and 6:00 P.M., if in a Meeting at these hours, unless otherwise determined by a resolution, but in all cases shall adjourn no later than 10:00 P. M.; and 10 Page 299 of 328 11.1.5 The Members of Council shall not leave their places on adjournment, until the Warden or other Presiding Officer leaves the Chair. 11.2 Notice of Meetings of Council 11.2.1 The agenda shall be considered as Notice of Regular Meetings of Council and By -Law 24-15, being a By -Law to establish a policy respecting the manner in which Notice will be provided, as amended, shall be utilized in respect thereof; 11.2.2 Notice will be given by providing Council with a regular agenda on each Thursday preceding a Meeting Day of Council, being five (5) days Notice. Public Notice will be provided on the Friday preceding a Meeting Day of Council, being four (4) days Notice. 11.2.3 Reports or actions before Council that require enactment of a By -Law, with Notice, shall be subject to terms of the By -Law 24-15, as amended; and 11.2.4 The Clerk gives Notice of a Meeting of Council by: 11.2.4.1 Providing Council with a regular agenda on each Thursday preceding a Meeting day of Council. 11.2.4.2 Where required, providing Council with a Closed Session agenda in accordance with the publishing timeframes set out of regular, addenda and additional addenda set out in Sections 12, 14 and 15. 11.3 Special Meetings of Council 11.3.1 If a matter arises which, in the opinion of the Clerk, in consultation with the Warden, is considered to be of an urgent or time sensitive nature, or warrants a meeting separate from the next regularly scheduled Council Meeting, the Notice requirements of By -Law 24-15, as amended, may be waived and the Clerk will provide Notice in accordance with Section 11.2 of this By -Law. 11.3.2 A Special Meeting of Council may be called by the Warden at any time. A Special Meeting of Council is limited to business matters included in the Notice of Meeting; and 11.3.3 When the Clerk receives a petition for a Special Meeting of Council signed by a majority of the Members of Council, a Special Meeting of Council is called for the purpose and at the time identified in the Petition. The Petition shall include: 11.3.3.1 Original signatures of Members; 11.3.3.2 A clear statement of the purpose of the Special Meeting; 11.3.3.3 A proposed date and time for such Special Meeting. 11.4 Emergency Meetings of Council 11.4.1 Notwithstanding any other provision in this By -Law, the Warden may, at any time, call or provide Notice of an Emergency Meeting of Council if a matter arises which could affect the health, well-being, or security of residents of the County, and/or if a state of emergency is declared by any Provincial Ministry; and 11 Page 300 of 328 11.4.2 An Emergency Meeting of Council is limited to business matters included in the Notice of Meeting; and 11.4.3 In the case of an emergency, Council may hold its Meetings at any convenient location within or outside the territorial limits of Elgin County. 11.5 Notice of Emergency Meetings of Council 11.5.1 The Clerk gives Notice of Emergency Meetings of Council to Members by: 11.5.1.1 Providing Council with an agenda in person or by telephone, mail, or electronic mail at least 24 hours prior to the Meeting. 11.5.1.2 Posting a Notice on the County's website, if possible, under the circumstances. 11.5.1.3 Where items 11.5.1.1 and 11.5.1.2 cannot be achieved, posting a Notice at the Main Entrance to the Municipal Office that indicates the date and time of the Emergency Meeting of Council and the purpose of the Emergency Meeting. 11.6 Public Meetings 11.6.1 Where any statute confers a right to be heard by Council before the passing of a by-law, or where Council is by statute required to hold a public meeting before the passing of a by-law, the Clerk shall call a Public Meeting. 11.6.2 The Clerk may call a Public Meeting at any time where so directed by the Head of Council for the purpose of soliciting feedback from the public on issues of importance to Council. 11.6.3 Notice of a Public Meeting shall meet the notice requirements of the statute under which the Public Meeting is required. If the Public Meeting is not required by statute, notice shall be provided in accordance with Section 11.2 of this By -Law. 11.6.4 Delegations at a Public Meeting are not required to provide written submissions to the Clerk in advance of the meeting, unless otherwise prescribed by legislation. However, Delegations are encouraged to provide written submissions to the Clerk in order to facilitate the efficient conduct of the meeting. 11.6.5 The procedures set out in this By -Law shall continue to apply to a Public Meeting held pursuant to this section, except that this section and the statute or by-law under which the Public Meeting is required, shall prevail to the extent of any conflict. 11.7 Committee of the Whole 11.7.1 Committee of the Whole Meetings shall be held immediately following regular council meetings in the Council Chambers at 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, or any other location and/or time designated by the Clerk. 11.7.2 Unless otherwise provided for in this by-law or on an agenda, Council shall receive Members Motions and Reports in Committee of the Whole. 11.7.3 When sitting as Committee of the Whole, the results of votes taken constitute resolutions of the Committee of the Whole and not resolutions 12 Page 301 of 328 of Council. All resolutions made by the Committee of the Whole while convening in accordance with this section shall be forwarded to the next regular meeting of Council for consideration, unless otherwise decided by Council. 11.7.4 The procedures set out in this By-law for Council meetings shall apply to meetings of the Committee of the Whole insofar as practicable. 11.8 Notice of Committee of the Whole Meetings 11.8.1 The agenda shall be considered as Notice of Committee of the Whole Meetings and By -Law 24-15, being a By -Law to establish a policy respecting the manner in which Notice will be provided, shall be utilized in respect thereof; 11.8.2 Notice will be given by providing Council with an agenda on each Thursday preceding a Meeting Day of Committee of the Whole, being five (5) days Notice. Public Notice will be provided on the Friday preceding a Meeting Day of Committee of the Whole, being four (4) days Notice. 11.8.3 The Clerk gives Notice of a Meeting of Committee of the Whole by: 11.8.3.1 Providing Council with a regular agenda on each Thursday preceding a Meeting Day of Committee of the Whole. 11.9 Cancellation or Postponement of Meetings 11.9.1 A regular, special, or emergency Meeting of Council or a Committee of the Whole Meeting may be cancelled or postponed where Quorum cannot be achieved, by Council resolution, in the event of an emergency, or where the Meeting is no longer required, as deemed by the Warden and/or Clerk; and 11.9.2 The Clerk gives Notice on the County's website and time permitting, through the local media, of a cancellation or postponement of a regular, special, or emergency Meeting of Council or a Committee of the Whole Meeting. Where time is limited, a Notice is posted at the main entrance to the Municipal Office. 11.10 Invalidation of Notice of Meeting 11.10.1 If Meeting Notice is substantially given but varies from the form and manner provided in this Procedural By -Law, the ability to hold the Meeting and actions taken at the Meeting are not invalidated. 11.11 Quorum 11.11.1 Members of Council will attempt to advise the office of the Clerk at least two days in advance if unable to attend a Meeting of Council. If Quorum cannot be met, the Meeting may be cancelled by the Clerk; 11.11.2 Unless there shall be a Quorum present within thirty (30) minutes of the time appointed for the Meeting of Council, Council shall then stand absolutely adjourned until the date of the next regular Meeting and the Clerk shall record the names of the Members present at the expiration of such thirty (30) minutes; and 13 Page 302 of 328 11.11.3 A majority of the Members of the whole Council will constitute a quorum and be necessary for the transactions of business. A majority of all Members of Council shall be determined as five (5) Members of Council. 11.11.4 Where there is an insufficient number of Members of Council present to achieve Quorum at a Meeting of Council due to a provision of the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, RSO 1990, c. M.50, ss. 2, ss. 3., the remaining Members of Council constitute Quorum, provided that such number in no case be less than two (2). 11.12 Late Arrival 11.12.1 If a Member arrives late at a Meeting, any prior discussion is not reviewed without the consent of the Members present. 11.13 Electronic Participation 11.13.1 Pursuant to Section 238 (3.1) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended, the following rules and regulations for electronic participation in a Council Meeting shall apply: 11.13.1.1 A Member who is unable to attend a Council Meeting in person may participate in any and all sessions of that Meeting, including but not necessarily limited to open and closed sessions thereof, by electronic or other communication facilities if, 11.13.1.1.1 The facilities enable all participating Members, whether attending in person or through electronic participation, to hear and be heard by all other Members. 11.13.1.1.2 Except for all or any part of the Council Meeting that is closed to the public, the electronic or other facilities are capable of and enable the public to hear, or watch and hear, all Members participating in the Meeting. 11.13.1.1.3 A Member who intends to participate in any such Meeting of Council by electronic or other communication facilities shall give to the Clerk Notice of that intention at least 24 hours prior to the commencement of such Meeting, provided that, if Notice of such Meeting is provided less than 24 hours prior to its scheduled commencement, then the Member shall give to the Clerk as much notice as possible prior to commencement of such Meeting. In all such circumstances, the Clerk will, as soon as reasonably possible, provide the Member intending to attend by electronic participation with instructions on how to connect to and participate in that Meeting by electronic or other communication facilities. 11.13.1.2 There shall be no limit upon the number of Members who may attend a Meeting of Council by electronic or other communication facilities. 11.13.1.3 The following rules apply to Meetings where any Member is 14 Page 303 of 328 participating electronically: 11.13.1.3.1 The Warden (or designate), as Chair, shall lead the Meeting and, when possible and/or appropriate, be present from a designated meeting location supported by the Clerk (or designate). 11.13.1.3.2 Each Member attending the Meeting by electronic or other communication facilities shall notify the Chair and other Members when they join the Meeting and, if and when applicable, upon leaving the Meeting. 11.13.1.3.3 Any Member attending and present during a Meeting by electronic or other communication facilities shall be counted for purposes of quorum at the commencement of and at any point in time during the Meeting. 11.13.1.3.4 Any Member attending and present during a Meeting by electronic or other communication facilities may participate in all aspects of the Meeting as if present in person, including but not limited to debate, questioning, presentation of motion, and/or voting. 11.13.1.3.5 During the course of a Meeting within which any Member is participating by electronic or other communication facilities, the Chair (or designate) shall announce each agenda item on the floor of the Meeting and shall thereafter maintain an orderly meeting process, including keeping Members fully informed. 11.13.1.3.6 Any Member attending and present during a Meeting by electronic or other communication facilities may vote on any matter being considered in such Meeting and that vote shall be counted and, as set forth below. 11.13.1.3.7 During the course of each vote conducted within such Meeting, 11.13.1.3.7.1 The Clerk shall call the name of each Member to vote and they shall signal "yea", "nay', or "abstain". 11.13.1.3.7.2If the Member, aftertwo attempts, fails to respond to the call of their name, then the vote is considered as "nay", unless directed otherwise by the Chair. 11.13.1.3.8 During the course of the Meeting, 11.13.1.3.8.1 Each Member shall remain silent and attentive to the proceeding when not assigned to the floor by the Chair. 15 Page 304 of 328 11.13.1.3.8.2 Each Member shall listen for their name to be assigned to the floor to speak or to vote. 11.13.1.3.8.3 All Members shall take and abide by the directions of the Chair in order to facilitate an effective, efficient, and orderly Meeting. 11.13.2 The above rules and practices shall apply to all sessions of the Meeting, whether open or closed to the public. 12. Preparation of the Agendas of Council 12.1 The Clerk and their staff are charged with providing guidance and recommendations to Council related to municipal business and to implement the decisions of Council. 12.2 The Clerk shall chair a regularly scheduled meeting of senior staff and invited attendees to review draft agenda items in order to support the business of Council. 12.3 The Clerk shall either personally or by their approved staff establish an administrative process to support the approval, preparation, Notice, publication and distribution/public access to agendas and agenda items. 13. Agenda In respect of a Regular, Special or Emergency Meetings of Council, or a Meeting of Committee of the Whole, the Clerk shall have prepared an agenda of the Orders of the Day, containing: 13.1 Regular/Special/Emergency Meeting of Council 1St Meeting Called to Order 2nd Approval of Agenda 3rd Introductions, Recognitions, Memorials 4th Adoption of Minutes 5th Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 6th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations 7th Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee of the Whole 8th Committee Recommendations 9th Reports for Information and Immediate Consideration 10th Council Correspondence 11th Statements/Inquiries by Members 12th Closed Meeting Items 13th Motion to Rise and Report 14th Consideration of By -Laws 15th Adjournment 13.2 Inaugural Meeting/Annual Warden's Election 1St Meeting Called to Order 2nd Receipt of Declaration of Acclamation to Office or Declaration of Election from Councillors (the first year only after a Municipal Election) 3rd Declaration of Office by Councillors (the first year only after a Municipal Election) 4th Election of Warden Candidates for Warden to Stand Page 305 of 328 Prospective Candidates to Speak (alphabetical order) Proceed with Election (Ballot or Resolution) 5th Administering and Signing of the Declaration of Office 6th Gowning 7th Presentation by Past Warden Chain of Office Lord Elgin Watch Gavel of Office 8th Warden's Address 9th Resolution to Destroy the Ballots (if required) 10th Recess 13.3 Public Meetinq 1St Meeting Called to Order 2nd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 3rd Reports of Staff or Consultants 4th Public Comments 5th Closed Meeting Items 6th Motion to Rise and Report 7th Adjournment 13.4 Committee of the Whole Meetinq 1St Meeting Called to Order 2nd Approval of the Agenda 3rd Adoption of Minutes 4th Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 5th Reports of Council, Staff or Outside Boards 6th Adjournment 14. Changes in Order of Agenda of Council or Committee of the Whole 14.1 The business of Council and Committee of the Whole is dealt with in the order stated on the published agenda, unless the Warden consents to changing the order. 15. Matters of Urgency/Addendum to Agenda (Approval of Agenda) 15.1 When, after the Agenda has been prepared and distributed as Notice of a Meeting of Council, a Member wishes to inform Council of an additional matter that, in their opinion, should be considered immediately and during the course of such Meeting, then, after notification of the Clerk, they shall present such matter to Council at such Meeting through the Chair and, with the consent of the majority of Members present, the matter shall only then be added to the Agenda and considered as an additional item under Reports for Information or Immediate Consideration without any prior or further Notice being given or required. 15.2 If Council deems appropriate, they may refer this matter to a future Committee of the Whole meeting. 16. Pecuniary Interest 16.1 As required by the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, RSO 1990, c. M.50, ss. 2, ss. 3, a member who has any pecuniary interest, direct or indirect, in any matter and is present at a meeting of the council or local board at which the matter is subject to consideration, the member, 17 Page 306 of 328 16.1.1 Shall, prior to any consideration of the matter at the meeting, disclose the interest and the general nature thereof; 16.1.2 Shall not take part in the discussion of, or vote on any question in respect to the matter; and 16.1.3 Shall not attempt in any way whether before, during or after the meeting to influence the voting on any such question. 16.2 Where the interest of a member has not been disclosed as required in Section 16.1 by reason of the member's absence from the meeting referred to therein, the member shall disclose the interest and otherwise comply with Section 16.1. at the first meeting of the council or local board, attended by the member after the meeting where the matter was considered. 16.3 A member shall file with the Clerk a written statement of any interest declared by the Member in accordance with the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, RSO 1990 Act and its general nature, and the Clerk will make the disclosure publicly available and will maintain a registry of written statements of disclosure. 16.4 In the case of items to be discussed in a Closed Session Meeting, the Member declaring a pecuniary or other conflict of interest shall leave the Meeting and shall take no action to participate in, or influence, the vote of the other Members when said item is to be resolved by Council. 17. Minutes 17.1 The Minutes of Council shall consist of: 17.1.1 A record of the place, date and time of Meeting; 17.1.2 The name of the Chair, a record of all Members present, and the names of those Members who are absent; 17.1.3 The reading, if requested, correction and adoption of the Minutes of prior Meetings; 17.1.4 All other proceedings of the Meeting without note or comment. 17.2 The Clerk shall ensure that a copy of the Minutes of each Meeting is delivered to each Member of Council at least forty-eight (48) hours priorto the commencement of the Meeting of Council; and 17.3 The Clerk shall keep a permanent copy of all Council Minutes for public inspection. 18. Introductions, Recognitions, Memorials 18.1 Introductions, awards/certificate presentations, moments of silence, and other recognitions presented to/by the County, its staff or related parties. Such presentations are received or presented by the Chair. 18.2 Presentations may be up to ten (10) minutes. The consent of Council is required to extend the presentation beyond ten (10) minutes. 19. Petitions, Delegations, Correspondence 19.1 Petitions 19.1.1 Every petition, protest, or other written application intended to be presented to Council must be legibly written or printed on paper, and 18 Page 307 of 328 signed by at least one person, complete with their mailing address and telephone number. The Warden, in consultation with the Clerk, shall determine whether the delegation(s) request is suitable and appropriate for consideration by County Council. In determining the suitability of each delegation for authority to address Council, the Warden shall ensure that the request is within the purview and jurisdiction of Council; 19.1.2 Every Member presenting any petition, protest, or other written application to Council, shall examine the same and shall be answerable that they contain only relevant or proper matter and that the same is respectful and temperate in its language; They shall also endorse thereon the name of the applicant and the substance of such application, sign their name thereto, which endorsement only shall be read by the Clerk, unless a Member shall require the reading of the paper, in which case the whole shall be read; and 19.1.3 All petitions or other written communications received prior to any Meeting of Council and on any subject that falls within the jurisdiction of any outside board shall, upon presentation, be referred to the outside board by the Clerk for consideration. Any matters arising subsequently shall be referred by the Warden without Motion and no Member shall speak upon nor debate on the presentation of any such petitions or other communications to Council. 19.2 Delegations 19.2.1 Any individual or group of individuals wishing to appear before the Council on Municipal business shall notify the Clerk, in writing, at least eight (8) days prior to the date of the Council Meeting. Written briefs outlining the subject matter of the presentation shall be provided for inclusion on the agenda. 19.2.2 Delegations will be scheduled on a first come first serve basis and, the Clerk's determination as to when a deputation will be scheduled is final. 19.2.3 No more than (4) delegations shall be scheduled to address Council at any Regular, Special, or Emergency Meeting. 19.2.4 A delegation shall be limited to a maximum of fifteen (15) minutes. Council may by Motion, and with the support of the majority of its members, lengthen the time for hearing of delegations. 19.2.5 No more than three (3) persons shall be permitted to speak to a delegation, unless otherwise permitted by the Chair. 19.2.6 No individual or group shall be allowed to address Council during any Meeting of Council without the permission of the Warden or other Chair. 19.2.7 Members of Council may ask questions of a delegation but shall not enter into debate with any representative of any such delegation. With the permission of the Warden or other Chair, the Clerk may ask questions of delegations. All questions to delegations shall be addressed through the Chair. 19.2.8 Once a delegation has addressed Council, no further request on the same issue will be entertained within a 12-month period, unless written information is produced to Council and it agrees that another delegation is warranted. 19.2.9 The Warden has the discretion to limit delegations on repetitive topics, or topics that are deemed to be frivolous. 19 Page 308 of 328 19.2.10 No delegation shall be permitted regarding: 19.2.10.1 Labour relations and negotiations 19.2.10.2 Any employee relations 19.2.10.3 Litigation or Potential Litigation Matters 19.2.10.4 Advertisements for products or services 19.2.10.5 Bidders or Potential Bidders 19.2.10.6 Election campaigning 19.2.10.7 Requests for Financial Assistance and Fee Waivers Outside of Established Process 19.2.10.8 Matters which have been decided upon by Council during the current term of Council and requests for reconsideration 19.2.10.9 Matters which have been referred to staff for a report, until the matter is before Council or Committee 19.2.10.10 Matters which are the subject of an Education and Training Session 19.2.11 Delegations on excluded topics will not be scheduled or heard by the Council and the Clerk will inform the requesting party, explaining the reasons and providing references to the relevant by-law sections. 19.2.12 Council may, at their discretion, refuse to hear any delegation. 19.2.13 The Clerk shall provide all individuals or groups seeking to address Council with a copy of the appropriate section of this Procedural By -Law dealing with delegations. 19.2.14 Should an individual or group wish to be provided with further notice related to a matter addressed by a delegation before Council, they are required to indicate this wish to the Clerk as part of their original delegation request. 20. Reports 20.1 Reports for Information or Immediate Consideration 20.1.1 If deemed appropriate by the Clerk, any County staff may report to the Warden and Members of Council at any session of Council. 20.1.2 A report for information may be placed on the Council Agenda where no action or direction is required from Council. 20.1.3 If in consideration of the information report it is determined by Council that further action is required, Council shall direct at which meeting the follow up report will be considered or may refer the report to the Committee of the Whole. 20.1.4 A Report for Immediate Consideration is a report that has not been considered by Committee of the Whole or any other committee that reports to Council. Reports that appear on the agenda for immediate consideration shall be determined by the Chief Administrative Officer. 20 Page 309 of 328 20.2 Reports of Council, Staff and Outside Boards 20.2.1 This section provides for members to consider recommendations on items such as Reports of Council, Staff and Outside Boards in the Committee of the Whole. Committee of the Whole permits members to discuss and debate matters in a more informal and flexible setting. 20.2.2 The results of votes taken during Committee of the Whole, regarding matters discussed under Section 20.2, constitute resolutions of the Committee of the Whole and not resolutions of Council. 20.2.3 Before Reports of Council, Staff, and Outside Boards are discussed, the Warden will inquire as to whether any members of the public would like to speak to any of the items on the agenda. The Warden will take note of any requests. 20.2.4 If there is a request from a member of the public to speak to an item on the agenda, the Warden will give that member the opportunity to do so, immediately after the agenda item has been presented, and before Council has discussed or debated said item. 20.2.5 Members of the public speaking to an item on the agenda will have ten (10) minutes to speak, which may be extended by a resolution of Committee of the Whole. 21. Correspondence 21.1 When correspondence has been requested to be included on a Council agenda or on the request of a Member of Council to the Clerk, such correspondence is placed on the agenda for a regular Meeting. Correspondence must be received no less than eight (8) days prior to a regular Council Meeting. Where required due to urgency or timing, correspondence may be considered directly by Council as an Addendum to the Agenda, or as a matter for Closed Session; 21.2 Staff may prepare recommendations related to any matter raised in Correspondence for consideration by Council; 21.3 Council will direct, to the Clerk, correspondence clearly intended to be considered as part of an agenda of Council; 21.4 The Clerk is required to verify whether it is the intent of an individual to include their correspondence on a public agenda. For reasons of privacy, irrelevant personal information will be severed from correspondence. General correspondence between Councillors or staff and constituents or stakeholders will not be included unless the Clerk is satisfied that it was clearly the individual's intent to include their correspondence on a public agenda; 21.5 Correspondence must be legible and not contain any defamatory statements. Anonymous correspondence will not be acknowledged, circulated or placed on an agenda; 21.6 Receipt of correspondence by Council does not constitute endorsement of either the correspondence by the County or of any recommendations it may contain or actions it may advocate; and 21.7 When not requested to be included in a Council agenda, correspondence may be circulated by the Clerk to Members of Council and applicable staff for their information. 21 Page 310 of 328 22. Motions from Other Municipalities and Organizations Requesting Endorsement 22.1 Motions from other municipalities communicated to Elgin County are placed on the agenda for County Council under correspondence. Where required due to urgency or timing, the Motions from other municipalities and organizations that request endorsement or action by Council may be considered directly as an addition to the Council agenda. 22.2 Staff may prepare recommendations related to the matter for Council's consideration. 22.3 Council's receipt of Motions from other municipalities in Elgin County does not constitute endorsement by the County of any recommendations or actions they may contain. 23. Statements/Inquiries by Members 23.1 When a Councillor wishes to inform Council of a matter that does not require action and consideration by Council or otherwise wishes clarification of a matter, such information may be announced under "Statements/Inquiries by Members". It is understood that these announcements are made solely for Council's information and that under no circumstances shall Council take action within this category. 24. Members Motions 24.1 Members Motions shall be placed on the Committee of the Whole agenda for consideration. 24.2 Members Motions must be received by the Clerk, in writing, by noon on the Tuesday preceding the distribution of the agenda material and shall be printed in the agenda. 24.3 A Members Motion shall be dealt with by Committee of the Whole at the meeting which it appears on the agenda. 24.4 The results of votes taken on Members Motions are not final decisions of Council, rather they are recommendations which will be given further consideration and finally voted on under regular rules of Council. 25. Rules of Debate 25.1 Conduct of Members 25.1.1 No Member shall speak disrespectfully of any person or use un- parliamentary or offensive language in or against Council or against any Member, staff, or other person in the Council. 25.1.2 The County of Elgin's "Council Code of Conduct" shall govern the actions and behaviour of the Members of Council. 25.1.3 During any Council meeting, except during any period sitting as Committee of the Whole, no Member, unless Council consents to it, shall speak more than once on the same motion. 25.1.4 During any period sitting as Committee of the Whole, a member will not speak more than once until all other Members have had the opportunity to speak to the question. 22 Page 311 of 328 25.1.5 The Chair shall maintain a list of Members who have requested to speak or ask questions. The Chair designates Members to speak or ask questions in the order in which they appear on the list. 25.1.6 When the Chair is putting forth the question, no Member shall walk across or out of the room, shall not interrupt the speaker, except to a question of order, nor pass between the speaker and the Chair. 25.1.7 Any Member called to order shall at once cease speaking, unless permitted to explain, and the ruling of the Warden or other Chair shall be final, unless otherwise decided by Council on an appeal from such ruling. 25.1.8 No Member shall partake of food in the Council Chambers while the Council is Meeting. 25.1.9 All communication devices shall be switched to'silent' upon entering the location where any Council/Committee Meeting is being held. 25.1.10 Members of Council or Committee, except the Warden and Deputy Warden, shall be referred to as County Councillors. 25.1.11 No person other than Members or staff of the County shall be allowed to speak from the gallery during the Meetings of Council without permission from the Chair. 25.2 Warden Entering Debate 25.2.1 If the Warden desires to take part in the debate of Council, they may remain in the Chair to do so. Alternatively, and when they deem appropriate, they may leave the Chair and, at that time, call on the Deputy Warden to fill their place until they resume the Chair. 25.3 Voting 25.3.1 Unless the Procedural By -Law states otherwise, a matter passes when a Majority of Members present vote in the affirmative. 25.3.2 Where a vote is taken, and a Member abstains from voting, the Member will be deemed to have voted in the negative. 25.3.3 At any time when a vote, taken by a show of hands, is unclear as to the outcome, the Warden or other Chair may request the Members to indicate their YEA or NAY. 25.3.4 Upon a tie vote on any question, by a show of hands, a recorded vote shall be taken. Upon a tie recorded vote, the question shall be considered a defeated motion. 25.4 Specific Rules Related to Motions 25.4.1 Motions 25.4.1.1 A Main Motion introduces a substantive matter to the assembly for decision. 25.4.1.2 All Motions shall be moved and seconded before being debated or put to vote; and all Motions shall be read and then conveyed to the Warden, who may again read the same. 23 Page 312 of 328 25.4.1.3 After a Motion has been received by the Warden or other Chair, it shall be deemed to be in the possession of Council but may be withdrawn at any time before the decision, by consent of a majority of the Members present. 25.4.1.4 After a Motion has been read, a Member may propose a friendly amendment. A friendly amendment that is perceived by all parties as an enhancement to the original motion and is to provide clarification of the intent of the motion. Friendly amendments may be permitted by the Warden or other Chair, after consent by the original Mover and Seconder of the Motion, and then by all the Members. 25.4.1.5 After any question is finally put to vote by the Warden or other Chair, no Member shall speak to the question nor shall any other Motion be made until after the result is declared; and 25.4.1.6 Members shall always take their places prior to any decision being called. 25.4.2 Amend 25.4.2.1 A Motion to Amend is used to change the wording of a Main Motion. The amendment can insert new wording, strike out wording, strike out and insert other wording, or substitute one Main Motion with another Main Motion provided that the substitute is on the same subject matter and does not contradict the Main Motion. 25.4.2.2 A Motion to Amend must be germane (relevant) to the subject matter under discussion. 25.4.2.3 All Motions to Amend shall be placed in the reverse order in which they are moved; and every amendment to the Motion shall be decided upon or withdrawn before the main question is put to vote. 25.4.2.4 There shall not be more than two (2) amendments to the main question or any Motion. 25.4.2.5 There shall not be more than one (1) amendment to any amendment. 25.4.3 Refer 25.4.3.1 A Motion to Refer is used to send an item of business to a committee or staff where the item will receive additional, in- depth consideration. Council may provide instructions to the Committee or staff, including when it is expected to report back to Council. 25.4.3.2 A Motion to Refer the Main Motion to staff or a Committee shall preclude all amendments of the main question until the Motion to Refer is decided. 25.4.4 Postpone to a Certain Time 25.4.4.1 A Motion to Postpone to a Certain Time is used to delay the consideration of a main motion and to fix a definite date or time (within the current meeting or to the next regular 24 Page 313 of 328 meeting) for consideration. Debate is restricted as to the merits of postponing and to the time to which to postpone. 25.4.5 Postpone Temporarily (Table) 25.4.5.1 A Motion to Postpone Temporarily (Table) is used to set an item of business (a Main Motion) aside temporarily, when something more urgent has arisen or Members may need some other information on the Main Motion which is not currently or readily available. 25.4.5.2 A Motion to Postpone Temporarily (Table) is always in order and will supersede the Main Motion. 25.4.6 Close Debate and Vote Immediately (Call the Question) 25.4.6.1 A Motion to Close Debate and Vote Immediately is used to close debate on an immediately pending Motion or on a series of consecutive pending motions. When it is adopted, the Chair should immediately take the vote on the affected motion or motions. When adopted, the making of amendments on the affected motions stop. 25.4.7 Recess 25.4.7.1 A recess shall be convened by either a Motion to Recess or a recess at the discretion of the Chair and is used to take a break in the meeting and set a time for continuing the meeting. 25.4.7.2 A Motion to Recess or a recess at the discretion of the Chair when other business is before the Meeting shall specify the length of time of the recess. 25.4.7.3 A Motion to Recess, when other business is before the Meeting, shall not be debatable and shall only be amendable with respect to the length of the recess. 25.4.8 Adjourn 25.4.8.1 A Motion to Adjourn is used to conclude the meeting. It is the duty of the Chair to ensure that no important business has been overlooked that should be taken up by Council before adjournment. 25.4.8.2 A motion to adjourn shall always be in order unless a vote is being taken. 25.4.8.3 A motion to adjourn, when resolved in the negative, shall not be presented again until after some intermediate proceedings have been completed by the Council. 25.4.9 Division of Question 25.4.9.1 A Main Motion that is composed of two or more independent parts may be split into two or more individual motions and discussed and voted on separately. 25.4.9.2 A Member wishing to Divide the Question, should indicate how the Main Motion is to be divided and if the Warden or other Chair agrees, they will be dealt with separately. 25 Page 314 of 328 25.4.9.3 If the Warden or other Chair disagrees that the Main Motion can be divided, the Member may move a Motion to Divide, and the assembly will decide by majority vote. 25.4.10 Reconsideration 25.4.10.1 A Motion to Reconsider may only be introduced by a Member if there is new, substantive information that is relevant to the deliberation of Council on the issue that could not, with reasonable diligence, have been received by Council at the time the initial decision was made. 25.4.10.2 Within the first twelve (12) months following the initial vote on a Main Motion, a question may only be reconsidered once, unless such twelve (12) month period is truncated by the end of the Council term. 25.4.10.3 In the event that the twelve (12) month period following the initial vote on the Main Motion is truncated by the end of the Council term, the Main Motion may be reconsidered at any time during the new term of Council. 25.4.10.4 After the period of twelve (12) months following the initial vote on the Main Motion has elapsed, and within the same Council term as the initial vote on the Main Motion, a member who voted in the majority may present a Member's Motion to reconsider the matter. 25.4.10.5 A Motion to Reconsider shall be introduced by the same method as Member's Motions and follow the same process. 25.4.10.6 Approval of a Motion to Reconsider requires the approval of two-thirds of the Members present. 25.4.10.7 If a Motion to Reconsider is decided in the affirmative at a Meeting of Council, then the consideration of the original Main Motion shall become the next order of business and debate on the question to be reconsidered shall proceed as though it had never previously been considered. 25.4.11 Point of Order 25.4.11.1 A Point of Order occurs when a Member believes that the rules of procedure are being violated. The Member shall call upon the Warden or other Chair for a ruling and an enforcement of the regular rules. 25.4.11.2 The Warden or other Chair's ruling on the matter is final. 25.4.11.3 When the Warden or other Chair is called upon to decide a Point of Order, they shall state the rule or authority applicable to the case. 25.4.12 Point of Privilege 25.4.12.1 Where a Member considers that the integrity of any member or the integrity of the Council as a whole has been impugned, the member may interrupt the proceedings or interrupt a member speaking to raise a point of privilege. With the Chair's consent the member will explain the privilege being tainted or damaged to Council. When a point of privilege is Page 315 of 328 raised, it shall be considered and decided by the Chair immediately. 25.4.12.2 The decision of the Chair on a point of privilege is final. 26. Readings of By -Laws and Proceedings 26.1 Every By -Law shall be printed in written or in electronic form and introduced by the Clerk and shall be considered for enactment by Council. 26.2 All By -Laws collectively shall be given first, second and third readings in a single Motion, unless a Member wishes to discuss the contents of a By -Law or a matter requires that the By -Law receive first and second reading only and third reading at a future Meeting, at which time the subject By -Law shall be removed from the Motion list and dealt with separately. The headnote only of the By -Law shall be read and a By -Law shall not be enacted until it has received three readings. 26.3 The Proceedings of every Regular, Special or Emergency Meeting shall be confirmed by a Confirmation By -Law so that every decision of Council and every resolution passed at that Meeting shall have the same force and effect as if each one of them had been the subject matter of a separate By -Law duly enacted. 26.4 The Clerk shall maintain a permanent copy of all By -Laws for public inspection. 27. Open Meetings and Closed Session Meetings 27.1 Open Meetings and Improper Conduct 27.1.1 Except as provided in this section, all Meetings of Council shall be open to the public pursuant to the Act, S. 239 (1); and 27.1.2 The Chair may expel any person for improper conduct at a Meeting, pursuant to the Act, 2001, S. 241 (2). 27.2 Closed Session Meetings 27.2.1 Persons may be excluded when Council is in Closed Meeting in accordance with Section 239 of the Act and amendments thereto. As provided for in the Act, Council shall resolve to move into a session closed to the public in order to discuss matters related to one or more of the following: (a) the security of the property of the County or local board; (b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including County or local board employees; (c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the County or local board; (d) labour relations or employee negotiations; (e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the County or local board; (f) advice that is subject to solicitor -client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; 27 Page 316 of 328 (g) a matter in respect of which a council, board, committee or other body may hold a closed meeting under another Act; (h) information explicitly supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board by Canada, a province or territory or a Crown agency or any of them; (i) a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial, financial or labour relations information, supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board, which, if disclosed, could reasonably be expected to prejudice significantly the competitive position or interfere significantly with the contractual or other negotiations of a person, group of persons, or the organization; (j) a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial or financial information that belongs to the municipality or local board and has monetary value or potential monetary value; or (k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board; 27.2.2 A meeting or part of a meeting shall be closed to the public if the subject matter being considered is: 27.2.2.1 a request under the Municipal Freedom of Information of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, if the council, board, commission or other body is the head of an institution for the purposes of that Act; or 27.2.2.2 an ongoing investigation respecting the municipality, a local board or a municipally -controlled corporation by the Ombudsman appointed under the Ombudsman Act, an Ombudsman appointed by Council or the investigator appointed by Council; 27.2.3 A meeting of Council may be closed to the public if the following conditions are both satisfied: 27.2.3.1 the meeting is held for the purpose of educating or training the members; and 27.2.3.2 at the meeting, no member discusses or otherwise deals with any matter in a way that materially advances the business or decision -making of Council; 27.2.4 Before holding a Meeting or part of a Meeting closed to the public, Council shall approve a Motion, stating the following: 27.2.4.1 The fact that the Meeting will be closed to the public as provided for in the Act; and 27.2.4.2 The general nature of the matter to be considered at the Meeting closed to the public; 27.2.5 Pursuant to Section 239 of the Act, when a Motion to proceed in a Closed Meeting is carried, the Warden or the Chair may, with the approval of Council, exclude such persons as deemed appropriate from the meeting room. 28 Page 317 of 328 27.2.6 When in a Closed Meeting, no one shall leave and re-enter the Meeting room without the approval of the Warden or Chair. 27.2.7 All Closed Meeting Minutes for Council Meetings shall be circulated electronically prior to the commencement of the next Meeting; and 27.2.8 Closed Meeting Minutes for Council Meetings are maintained by the Clerk and are only accessible by the Clerk. 27.3 Voting During Meetings Closed to the Public 27.3.1 No vote will be taken at a Meeting described in Section 27.2 of this Procedural By -Law, and which is closed to the public, unless: 27.3.1.1 The subject matter relates to an issue as described in Section 27.2 of this By -Law; and 27.3.1.2 The vote is for a procedural matter or for giving directions or instructions to officers, employees or agents of the Municipality or persons related by or under contract with the Municipality. 27.3.2 On Motion in Council in a Closed Meeting, to rise and report the question shall be decided without debate involving any of the following: 27.3.2.1 Motion to rise without reporting 27.3.2.2 Motion to rise and report 27.3.2.3 Motion to provide staff direction 27.3.3 With respect to debate and/or vote in a Meeting closed to the public: 27.3.3.1 The number of times a Member may speak to any question shall not be limited during a Closed Session, provided that no Member shall speak more than once until every Member who desires to do so shall have spoken. 27.3.3.2 A Member present at a Closed Session shall, prior to consideration of any matter, declare any pecuniary interest, direct or indirect and the general nature thereof and said Member shall leave the Closed Session, or part thereof, during which the matter is under consideration. The declaration of Pecuniary Interest shall be recorded in the Minutes. 27.4 Notice of Meetings Closed to the Public 27.4.1 Where a matter may be considered by Council for discussion in Closed Session, whenever possible, written Notice provided for in this By -Law shall disclose: 27.4.1.1 The fact that the Meeting will be closed to the public as provided for in the Act; 27.4.1.2 The general nature of the matter to be considered at the closed Meeting. 29 Page 318 of 328 27.5 Confidentiality of Closed Session Discussions and Public Disclosure 27.5.1 Asummary of any discussion held in Closed Session and any required vote if permitted, will occur following the Closed Session discussion of Council; 27.5.2 The summary of Closed Session discussion and vote will provide sufficient detail, without detrimentally affecting the confidentiality of the matter(s) discussed in Closed Session and the position of the Municipality; 27.5.3 No Member shall disclose or discuss, through written, electronic or verbal communication, to any individual or corporate third party, any information that has been or will be discussed at a Closed Session Meeting of Council until such time that such Council has determined or has been advised by staff that the matter, or any part of the matter, can be made public subject to review by the Chair or designate under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.56 or if directed to do so by a court; 27.5.4 A Motion to adjourn a Closed Meeting shall always be in order and be decided without debate, except when a Member is in possession of the floor; and 27.5.5 Upon rising from a Closed Meeting, the Chair shall announce the result of the vote as it is to be recorded in the Minutes. 27.6 Closed Meeting Investigation 27.6.1 Council shall appoint a Closed Meeting Investigator to carry out Closed Meeting Investigations; 27.6.2 If, after completing an investigation, the investigator is of the opinion that the Meeting or part of the Meeting that was the subject -matter of the investigation appears to have been closed to the public contrary to the Act or to this By -Law, the investigator shall report their opinion and the reasons for it to Council and may make such recommendations as they think fit; 27.6.3 The County of Elgin shall ensure that reports contemplated in this section are made available to the public as required by the Act; 27.6.4 If the investigator is of the opinion that the Meeting was closed to the public contrary to Act, Council shall pass a resolution stating how it intends to address such opinion and the report in which it was delivered, - and 27.6.5 A person may request that an investigation be undertaken to determine whether Council complied with the requirements of the Act and this By - Law in respect of a Meeting or part of a Meeting closed to the public. A person may initiate such a request by completing and submitting a copy of the Municipal Investigation of Closed Meetings form. 28. Duties of the Warden and Chair 28.1 The Chair of a Meeting of Council, whether a Regular, Special, Emergency or a Committee of the Whole Meeting is the Warden. In the absence of the Warden, the Deputy Warden is Chair as provided for in this By -Law. 28.2 It shall be the duty of the Warden or other duly appointed Chair: CIN Page 319 of 328 28.2.1 To act as Chief Executive Officer of the municipality; 28.2.2 To preside over Council Meetings so that its business can be carried out efficiently and effectively; 28.2.3 To provide leadership to Council; 28.2.4 To represent the County at official functions; 28.2.5 To carry out the duties of the Chair under any other Act or any other Statute of the Province; 28.2.6 To provide information and recommendations to the Members of Council with respect to Council's role to ensure the accountability and transparency of the operations of the municipality including the activities of the senior management of the municipality; 28.2.7 To provide information and recommendations to Council to ensure that administrative policies, practices and procedures are in place to implement the decisions of Council; 28.2.8 To open the Meeting of Council by taking the Chair and calling the Members to order; 28.2.9 To announce the business before Council in the order which it is to be acted upon; 28.2.10 To receive, in the proper manner, all Motions presented by the Members of Council and to submit these Motions as questions for proper debate; 28.2.11 To put to a vote all questions which are duly moved and seconded or which necessarily arise in the course of proceedings and to announce the results; 28.2.12 To decline to put to a vote Motions which infringe upon the Rules of Procedure as provided for in this By -Law; 28.2.13 To restrain the Members, within the Rules of Procedures, when engaged in debate; 28.2.14 To enforce on all occasions the observance of order and decorum among the Members and those before Council; 28.2.15 To call by name any Member persisting in breach of the Rules of Procedure, thereby ordering the Member to vacate the meeting place; 28.2.16 To receive all messages and other communications and announce them; 28.2.17 To authenticate by their signature, when necessary, all By -Laws and Minutes of Council; 28.2.18 To inform the Members of Council, when necessary or when referred to for the purpose, on any point of order; 28.2.19 To represent and support Council, implicitly obeying its decision in all matters; 28.2.20 To ensure that the decisions of Council are in conformity with the laws and By -Laws governing the activities of Council; 31 Page 320 of 328 28.2.21 When appointed to be, may be an Ex-Officio Member of all Committees of Council; 28.2.22 To perform all duties as required of a Member of Council; 28.2.23 To adjourn the Meeting without question in the case of grave disorder arising during the Meeting or suspend the sitting of Council until a time to be names by the Warden; and 28.2.24 To adjourn the Meeting when the business of Council is concluded. 28.3 As Chief Executive Officer of the County, the Warden shall: 28.3.1 Uphold and promote the purposes of the municipality; 28.3.2 Promote public involvement in the municipality's activities; 28.3.3 Act as the representative of the municipality both within and outside the territorial limits of the municipality, and promote the municipality locally, nationally and internationally; and 28.3.4 Participate in and foster activities that enhance the economic, social and environmental well-being for the municipality and its residents. 29. Council Member Roles and Responsibilities 29.1 Council Members are responsible for, where applicable: 29.1.1 Attending scheduled Meetings; 29.1.2 Carefully considering and making decisions about Meeting business, including seeking information and advice from staff prior to and during a Meeting; 29.1.3 Voting on Motions put to a vote; 29.1.4 Respecting the rules of order in this Procedural By -Law; 29.1.5 Listening attentively, participating in a Meeting and not interrupting, unless to raise a Point of Order; 29.1.6 Remaining silent in their seats while Council votes and until the Chair announces the results of the vote; 29.1.7 Refraining from using any offensive, disrespectful or un-parliamentary language about any Member, municipal employee, Meeting attendees and Council as a whole; 29.1.8 Respecting and following the decisions of Council; 29.1.9 Respecting the confidentiality of matters discussed in Closed Session Meetings and not disclosing the subject or substance of these discussions unless authorized to do so; 29.1.10 Complying with the Chair's ruling and Council's decisions; and 29.1.11 Complying with the Council Code of Conduct. M Page 321 of 328 29.2 The role of Council Members also includes, where applicable: 29.2.1 To represent the public and to consider the well-being and interests of the County; 29.2.2 To develop and evaluate the policies and programs of the County; 29.2.3 To determine which services and the extent to which such services are provided to the residents of the County; 29.2.4 To ensure that administrative policies, practices and procedures and financial policies, practices and procedures are in place to implement the decisions of Council; 29.2.5 To ensure the accountability and transparency of the operations of the County, including the activities of the senior management of the County; 29.2.6 To maintain the financial integrity of the County; and 29.2.7 To carry out the duties of a Member as provided for under any Act or By -Law. 30. Restriction on Power of Members 30.1 No Member of Council shall have power to direct or interfere with the performance of any work of the County Corporation. 31. Absence of Warden and/or Deputy Warden 31.1 In case the Warden does not attend within fifteen (15) minutes after the time appointed for a Meeting of Council, the Deputy Warden shall call the Meeting to order and preside as Chair, subject to any restrictions regarding Conflict of Interest. 31.2 In case the Warden and Deputy Warden are unable to attend the Meeting, the Members will, by resolution duly moved and seconded, appoint a Chair. While so presiding, the Chair shall have all the powers of the Chair. 31.3 Should the Warden or Deputy Warden, as the case may be, arrive after the Meeting has been called to order, the Chair shall relinquish the position of the Chair to the Warden, or Deputy Warden as the case may be, immediately after the current item of business on the Council Orders of the Day is considered or otherwise disposed. 32. Alternate Council Member 32.1 General Procedures 32.1.1 The following procedure relates to alternates to County Council who are appointed by local municipalities under section 268 of the Act when they are required to attend a Council Meeting; 32.1.2 The Council of a constituent municipality may appoint one of its Members as an Alternate Member of County Council to act in place of a person who is a Member of the Council of the constituent municipality and the County when the Member is unable to attend a Meeting of County Council for any reason; 32.1.3 County Council has no role in the appointment of Alternate Members but it can establish procedures for accommodating Alternate Members at County Council; 33 Page 322 of 328 32.1.4 Constituent municipalities are able to appoint an Alternate Member of County Council in accordance with the following provisions: 32.1.4.1 There can only be one Alternate Member appointed per municipality; 32.1.4.2 The appointment is for the term of Council; and 32.1.4.3 Municipalities cannot appoint another Alternate Member to act in place of the appointed Alternate Member; 32.1.5 Alternate Members shall make their declaration of office prior to taking their seat as an Alternate Member of Council. This is not required for subsequent Meetings they might attend; 32.1.6 The Alternate Member shall have all the powers and duties of a Member, including the power to make motions and vote and the duty to abide by this By -Law and Code of Conduct, as applicable; and 32.1.7 Alternate Members must only be used when the Member is unable to attend an entire Meeting. 32.1.8 Alternate Members are eligible to become Members of Elgin County Boards and Committees, subject to Council appointment. 32.2 Notification Process 32.2.1 A local municipality shall notify the Clerk in the event that its council appoints an Alternate Member of County Council and shall provide the Clerk with a certified copy of the By -Law so appointing the Alternate Member; 32.2.2 The Clerk shall keep a record of all appointed Alternate Members which shall be available to the public; 32.2.3 The local Clerk or incumbent Council Member shall notify the Clerk, in writing, as soon as reasonably possible when an Alternate Member shall be attending a Meeting of Council; 32.2.4 Each local municipality will be responsible for notifying its Alternate Member that they are to attend any County Council Meeting; 32.2.5 In situations where no prior notice has been given, the Alternate Member shall at the time they attend a County Council Meeting, provide the Clerk with written confirmation that they are acting as an Alternate Member for that Council Meeting; 32.2.6 Alternate Members shall receive a regular agenda on each Thursday preceding a Meeting Day of Council. If no notice was provided, they shall receive a hard copy or electronic agenda at the time they attend the Council Meeting; and 32.2.7 Closed Meeting agendas, reports and minutes will be provided to the Alternate Member on paper and shall be returned at the end of the meeting. 32.3 Meeting Administration 32.3.1 The Alternate Member's powers and duties as a Member extend only to the time they are present at the Council Meeting; 34 Page 323 of 328 32.3.2 Council Minutes shall note the absence of the incumbent Member and the attendance of an Alternate Member; and 32.3.3 Where both an Alternate Member and Member attend a Council Meeting, the Member shall assume their seat. The Alternate Member may attend as a spectator. 32.4 Appointment of Alternate Member for a Period of Less Than One (1) Month 32.4.1 If a person who is a Member of the council of a constituent municipality and a Member of County Council is unable to act as a Member of those councils for a period of less than one (1) month, the Council of the constituent municipality may appoint one of its Members as an Alternate Member of County Council to act in place of the Member until the Member is able to resume acting as a Member of those councils; 32.4.2 An Alternate Member appointed at the discretion of a constituent municipality as contemplated by section 32.4.1 above shall not receive compensation from the County for any Meetings of Council they are required to attend in the absence of the Member but shall be paid mileage at the same rate established for the use of personal vehicles for County business and any other eligible "out of pocket" expense that may occur; 32.4.3 An Alternate Member shall not be eligible to be reimbursed for attendance at conventions, seminars or training; 32.4.4 An Alternate Member while acting in their capacity, shall be governed by all applicable policies of the County such as but not limited to this By - Law and Council Code of Conduct; and 32.4.5 An Alternate Member shall have access to applicable support resources such as but not limited to the County's Integrity Commissioner. 32.5 Appointment of Alternate Member for a Period Exceeding One (1) Month 32.5.1 If a person who is a Member of the council of a constituent municipality and a Member of County Council is unable to act as a Member of those councils for a successive period exceeding one (1) month, the council of the constituent municipality may appoint one of its Members as an Alternate Member of County Council to act in place of the Member until the Member is able to resume acting as a Member of those councils; 32.5.2 Upon notice of vacancy of a Member exceeding one (1) month, the Member's compensation and expense reimbursement eligibility will cease and will be provided to the Alternate Member so appointed in their place by the constituent municipality in the same manner; 32.5.3 An Alternate Member so appointed shall be eligible to be reimbursed for attendance at conventions, seminars or training; 32.5.4 An Alternate Member, while acting in this capacity, shall be governed by all applicable policies of the County such as but not limited to this By - Law and Council Code of Conduct; and 32.5.5 An Alternate Member so appointed shall have access to all equipment supplied to a regular Member including but not limited to information technology equipment, account access and applicable support resources such as but not limited to the County's Integrity Commissioner. 35 Page 324 of 328 33. Member Vacancy 33.1 Vacancy of Seat of Member of Council 33.1.1 The Council of the constituent municipality may appoint one of its Members as an Alternate Member of County Council to act in place of Member Vacancy. The office of a Member of Council becomes vacant if the Member: 33.1.1.1 becomes disqualified from holding the office of a Member of Council; 33.1.1.2 fails to make the declaration of office before the deadline; 33.1.1.3 is absent from the meetings of council for three (3) successive months without being authorized to do so by a resolution of Council; 33.1.1.4 resigns from their office; 33.1.1.5 is appointed or elected to fill any vacancy in any other office on the same council; 33.1.1.6 has their office declared vacant in any judicial proceeding; 33.1.1.7 forfeits their office under the Act or any other Act; or 33.1.1.8 dies, whether before or after accepting office and making the prescribed declarations. 33.1.2 Seats declared vacant by a constituent municipality will be dealt with as outlined in the Act; 33.1.3 Upon notice of vacancy, the Member's compensation and expense reimbursement eligibility will cease and will be provided to the Alternate Member so appointed by the constituent municipality in the same manner; 33.1.4 An Alternate Member, so appointed shall be eligible to be reimbursed for attendance at conventions, seminars or training; 33.1.5 An Alternate Member, while acting in this capacity, shall be governed by all applicable policies of the County such as but not limited to the Council Code of Conduct; and 33.1.6 An Alternate Member so appointed shall have access to all equipment supplied to a regular Member including but not limited to information technology equipment, account access and applicable support resources such as but not limited to the County's Integrity Commissioner. 33.2 Vacancy of Seat of Warden 33.2.1 If the position of Warden is vacant, Council shall fill the vacancy by appointment in the same manner as Warden was originally appointed, as provided for in this By -Law. 33.3 Pregnancy and Parental Leave 33.3.1 The provisions of this sub -section applies to a Member of Council who is absent from Meetings of Council for at least three (3) consecutive months as a result of the Member's pregnancy, the birth of the Member's child, or the adoption of a child by the Member; IN Page 325 of 328 33.3.2 The office of a Member of Council shall not become vacant if a Member is absent for twenty (20) consecutive weeks or less when such absence is a result of the Member's pregnancy, the birth of the Member's child or the adoption of a child by the Member; 33.3.3 Prior to the Member missing meetings of Council for three (3) consecutive months, a Member of Council shall provide a request for pregnancy and/or parental leave in writing to the Clerk; 33.3.4 If a Member wishes to seek a leave in excess of twenty (20) consecutive weeks, the Member shall request an extended leave, in writing to the Clerk, as soon as the need for an extended leave is known. If an extended leave is requested, the Clerk shall prepare a report for Council's consideration of the extended leave; 33.3.5 Member on pregnancy or paternity leave is exempt from attending meetings of Council to which the Member has been appointed; 33.3.6 Members shall still receive all Council Agenda packages; 33.3.7 Any Member on pregnancy or paternity leave shall participate in events, conferences, committee meetings, constituent meetings or respond to communications at the level they determine, utilizing an out of office email feature to identify they are on leave, the level of service offered and an alternate contact if required; 33.3.8 Members of Council on pregnancy or paternity leave shall continue to receive all remuneration afforded to regular Members of Council; and 33.3.9 Members of Council on pregnancy or paternity leave shall continue to have access to all equipment supplied to a regular Member including but not limited to information technology equipment, account access and staff support. 34. Administrative Authority of Clerk 34.1 The Clerk is authorized to amend By -Laws, Minutes and other Council and Committee documentation for technical, typographical or other administrative errors or omissions for the purpose of ensuring an accurate and complete record of proceedings. 34.2 Significant changes to By -Laws, Minutes and other Council and Committee documentation including a change in meaning, shall be presented to Council or the involved Committee for approval and adoption. 35. Organization of Committees 35.1 The Warden shall recommend, and Council shall appoint representatives from within their membership to various Committees, Local Boards and Agencies at the first Meeting in January of each year. 35.2 Council may at any time, on Motion of a Member duly considered and agreed to by a majority vote strike a Committee, Ad Hoc Committee and/or Steering Committee, as the case may be, which shall consider and report on any matter or to perform any special service within the spheres of jurisdiction of Elgin County, pursuant to the Act. 37 Page 326 of 328 36. Repeal of Amendment of this By -Law 36.1 This By -Law is not to be amended or repealed except by a majority vote when all Members of Council are present. 36.2 No amendment or repeal of this By -Law is to be considered at any Meetings of Council unless Notice of the proposed amendment or repeal has been given at a previous regular meeting of Council. 37. Public Record 37.1 All communications that the Clerk receives about a matter on the agenda of a public or open Meeting will form part of the public record. Personal information and opinions in communications are part of the public record unless the author of the communication requests the removal of their personal information when submitting it or when otherwise confirmed by the Clerk. 38. Severability 38.1 Each provision of this By -Law is distinct and severable. If any provision of this By -Law, in whole or in part, is or becomes illegal, invalid, void, voidable or unenforceable in any jurisdiction by order of any court of competent jurisdiction, the illegality, invalidity or unenforceability of that section, in whole or in part, will not affect: 38.1.1 The legality, validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions of this By -Law, in whole or in part; or 38.1.2 The legality, validity or enforceability of that section, in whole or in part, in any other jurisdiction. Not withstanding the date this by-law is passed, it shall not come into force until April 1, 2025. Until this date, By -Law No. 19-41, as amended, shall remain in effect. C Page 327 of 328 COUNTY OF ELGIN By -Law No. 25-07 "BEING A BY-LAW TO CONFIRM PROCEEDINGS OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF ELGIN AT THE FEBRUARY 11, 2025 MEETING" WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 5.1 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended, the powers of a municipality shall be exercised by its Council; AND WHEREAS pursuant to Section 5.3 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended, the powers of every Council shall be exercised by by-law; AND WHEREAS it is deemed expedient that the proceedings of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin at this meeting be confirmed and adopted by by-law NOW THEREFORE the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin enacts as follows: THAT the actions of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin, in respect of each recommendation contained in the reports and each motion and resolution passed and other action taken by the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin, at its meeting held on February 11, 2025 be hereby adopted and confirmed as if all such proceedings were expressly embodied in this by-law. 2. THAT the Warden and appropriate officials of the Corporation of the County of Elgin are hereby authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the actions of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin referred to in the preceding section hereof. 3. THAT the Warden and the Chief Administrative Officer, or alternate, are authorized and directed to execute all documents necessary in that behalf and to affix thereto the seal of the Corporation of the County of Elgin. READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 11T" DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2025. Blaine Parkin, Grant Jones, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden. Page 328 of 328