02-502 Lorne Park Master Plan-FINAL and Trails Documents/Lorne Park...Jay McGuffin, Senior Planner, Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Rodger Todhunter, Principal Landscape Architect,

LORNE PARK master plan

June, 2004

Prepared for:

The City of Brantford Parks and Recreation Department

Prepared by:

Monteith Brown Planning Consultants

In association with

Rodger Todhunter Associates

TABLE OF CONTENTS ACKNOWLEDDGEMENTS i 1. INTRODUCTION 1

Culture, Parks and Recreation Master Planning Process 1 Lorne Park – An Overview 1 Preliminary Redevelopment Issues and Opportunities 2 Vision Statement for Lorne Park 3 Master Plan Objectives 3

2. SITE INVENTORY & EXISTING CONDITIONS 4

Site Survey 4 Existing Conditions 4

The Local neighbourhood 4 Local Trail and Park Connections 4 Park Features 5 Topography 9

Historical Significance of Lorne Park 10 3. PUBLIC CONSULTATION 13

Public Consultation Program 13 Public Meeting No. 1 – Information Session 13 Steering Committee Meeting 14 Public Meeting No. 2 – Review Concepts 15

4. ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES 16

Issues 16 Opportunities 17

5. CONCEPT ALTERNATIVES 18

Concept Plan Development 18 Concept Plan No. 1 19 Concept Plan No. 2 21 Concept Plan No. 3 23

6. PREFERRED CONCEPT PLAN 25

The Preferred Plan 25

7. LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN 28

The Master Plan Structure 28 The Master Plan 28 Phase I Initiatives 29

8. MASTER PLAN PHASING 34 9. Capital Cost Estimates 34 APPENDIX I - Public Meeting No. 1 APPENDIX II- Public meeting No. 2 APPENDIX III- Lorne Park Master Plan – Phase II “Ultimate Plan”

Lorne Park Master Plan City of Brantford Parks and Recreation Department

Monteith Brown Planning Consultants In association with Rodger Todhunter Associates Inc. Page i

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Lorne Park Master Plan is the result of a culmination of efforts of the Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Advisory Board, the Steering Committee, Staff from the Parks and Recreation Department and the Engineering and Transportation Services Department, the Consultant Team together with the invaluable assistance and input provided by park users, event-holders, neighbourhood residents and the community at large. Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Advisory Board Ed Long, Chair Jay Shewchuk, Vice Chair Mike Bodnar Dwight Ayerhart Michael Hurley Bob Coyne Bill Irwin John Riddell Dan McCreary, Councillor

Parks and Recreation Department Vic Hergott, Director, Parks and Recreation Maureen Sinclair, Division Manager, Parks Operation and Development Vicki Armitage, Coordinator Park Design & Development Dennis Wale, Foreman, Horticulture & Turf Maintenance Engineering – Transportation Services Russ Loukes, Senior Transportation Engineer Consultant Team Jay McGuffin, Senior Planner,

Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Rodger Todhunter, Principal Landscape Architect, Rodger Todhunter Associates Inc.


Monteith Brown Planning Consultants In association with Rodger Todhunter Associates Inc. Page 1

1. INTRODUCTION The Master Plan Process

n November of 2003, the City of Brantford retained Monteith Brown Planning Consultants in association with Rodger Todhunter Associates Inc. to undertake a Master

Plan for Lorne Park. In April of 2003 the City of Brantford comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan was adopted by City Council. This Master Plan is the key document designed to identify the short and long term needs and priorities for parks and recreation throughout the City. The comprehensive Master Plan provides policies, standards and recommendations that will guide future decisions and the planning of parks and recreation facilities and services in Brantford. Stemming from the Master Plan was a list of recommended improvements to municipal parks which included a recommendation that a detailed Master Plan for Lorne Park be undertaken. Concerns about Lorne Park have been received by the City for a number of years now. These concerns have been primarily related to traffic conflicts with park users including excessive vehicular speeds and the use of Ballantyne Drive by motorists looking for a short-cut to west Brant. The City conducted a public information centre in October of 2001 to look at alternative methods for traffic calming through Lorne Park. The findings and ultimate recommendations of this study were costly and it was decided that any solutions to this problem should be incorporated into the vision for the future development and growth of Lorne Park.

Working with a Steering Committee of City Staff, the Parks, Recreation, Waterfront Advisory Board and the community the consultant team commenced with the development of a master plan to assist staff and residents in making sound decisions with regard to the future development of Lorne Park. The Plan would have to be cognizant of the Parks rich heritage and its surrounding environment, and would have to ensure the continuation of the high level of care for this important community resource. The consultant team met with key staff to define the scope of the project, discuss known issues, opportunities and constraints and to outline a work program and community consultation process. Lorne Park – An Overview Lorne Park features many of Brantford’s finest horticultural gardens and floral attractions. The carpet bed display on the banks of the river is truly a grand centerpiece which highlights many of the community anniversaries and special events showcased in the City each year. Carpet bedding is an art dating back to the 19th century where plant materials are laid out in garden beds in intricately detailed patterns. The carpet beds of Lorne Park have been recognized as being among the finest in Canada. Situated on the southern bank of the Grand River along the west side of Colborne Street and the Lorne Bridge, Lorne Park is a focal point of attention gracing the western entrance into downtown. The park is 5.1 acres in size and includes the dyke wall of the Grand River. Ballantyne Drive, a westbound one-way street, dissects the park at its southern end separating the rose gardens and VON Memorial on the south side, from the rest of the park. Lorne Park extends west where it turns into Cockshutt Park which is home to the Parks and Recreation Department and the City’s greenhouses. On the east side of Colborne Street, south of the Grand River, is Fordview Park which is connected by an abandoned

I



rail bridge (turned pedestrian bridge crossing) over the Grand into Brant’s Crossing Park which is the hub of an extensive trail system including the Trans Canada Trail Regional Location Map within the City

Preliminary Redevelopment Issues and Opportunities Lorne Park is classified as a specialized passive park in the City’s parks and open space inventory. The most unique characteristics of Lorne Park are the carpet bedding display, the colourful annual gardens and the fact that the Park is perceived as Brantford’s “Horticultural Showcase”. Primary concerns identified with regard to Lorne Park included:

the volume and speed of vehicular traffic on Ballantyne

Drive (a major safety concern); Ballantyne Drive physically divides the park; address the

park entry sequence, the road through the park, and parking issues associated with this roadway;

design for barrier-free accessibility; enhance daily use of the park through trail development; the need for a formalized network of accessible park

walkways to link park features; adequate separation for cyclists for safety reasons; address the abundant number of site furnishings, park

monuments and artifacts; enhance the picturesque aesthetic of Lorne Park to provide

additional unique visitor experiences. The VON supports relocating the rose garden and

memorial and are flexible to other forms of memorial; The Parks and Recreation Master Plan identified the following to be examined in context with future improvements to Lorne Park and the overall planning and provision of parks and open space:

parking issues (cars and tour buses) as a result of the parks popularity for wedding photos and as a tourist attraction;

the City Engineering Department undertook a traffic analysis through the park which recommended traffic calming measures be installed. Implementation pending results of this Mater Plan;

LORNE PARK



the potential for purchasing additional adjacent lands for park purposes;

ensuring the appropriate alignment of the City’s trail system through Lorne Park;

potential recognition within the park for volunteer groups who have made substantial contributions to the park;

Additional opportunities identified in the Master Plan that were not specific to Lorne Park but which merit consideration in association with this study, include:

that all specialized parks and open space areas include proper amenities to accommodate all users;

such amenities should include consideration for washrooms, water fountains, electrical outlets, benches, safe pedestrian-friendly pathways leading to facilities and off-street parking, etc.; and

maintaining good sight line/visibility principles as a fundamental principle for the future design of all municipal parks.

Vision Statement for Lorne Park The following vision was established for Lorne Park based on the input and direction received from the public.

“Lorne Park shall continue as Brantford’s premier horticultural showcase for the enjoyment of residents and visitors to the City’s historic downtown.”

Master Plan Objectives Working from the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and the identified issues associated with the park, the following objectives were identified for the Lorne Park Master Plan:

to continue to showcase the annual carpet bedding and related horticultural displays;

to act as a gateway to the historic downtown core; to be a complimentary, yet distinct civic showpiece; to be part of a linear recreational experience in concert

with the adjacent network of connected park spaces; to retain and enhance the role of Lorne Park as an

important venue for wedding photos; to represent Canada’s Confederation; to design and plan for the “ultimate” expanded park

which will include adjacent land parcels; to promote safety, security and accessibility through

design; to engage the public in a detailed design process; and to mitigate existing conflicts between the existing park

uses and different user groups.



2. SITE INVENTORY & EXISTING CONDITIONS Site Survey

etailed digital mapping was provided by the City which included topographical data, existing infrastructure, general locations and extent of tree

cover, the location and extent of all park features, neighbouring buildings and structures and street networks. Additional data was acquired from the City including property assessment mapping, zoning maps and digital aerial photography. This data was assembled and is referenced on the base features plan [See Figure I]. Existing Conditions

The Local Neighbourhood Lorne Park is 5.1 acres in size and is bound to the north by a dyke wall along the southern bank of the Grand River. Colborne Street, a major east/west transportation corridor through the City bounds the park to the east at the Lorne Bridge. Ballantyne Drive, a westbound one-way street dissects the park from Colborne Street in the east to Colborne Street again in the west just prior to where Colborne Street turns into Highway 53. It is this connection that makes Ballantyne Drive such an attractive short-cut for motorists heading to West Brant. To the south, Lorne Park abuts a row of single detached dwellings which front onto Gilkison Street. The property immediately abutting the southeast corner of the park is quite large and is used for a commercial automotive use.

While this parcel would make an excellent enhancement to the land base of Lorne Park, previous attempts by the City to purchase these lands have failed due to cost. The City owns the abandoned railway right-of-way and residential lot (Municipal No. 28) immediately west of the commercial property on Gilkison. The right-of-way is currently used by local residents as an informal pathway between the neighbourhood and the park. An established residential neighbourhood continues to the south of the park. The Parks and Recreation building and the City’s greenhouses are located adjacent to Lorne Park on Sherwood Drive which form the eastern extent of Cockshutt Park. Local Trail and Park Network The Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway runs through Lorne Park and extends east to Fordview Park where it ties into the Trans Canada Trail at Brant’s Crossing. The trail runs west from Lorne Park along Balantyne Drive past Cockshutt Park where it then ties into D’Aubigny Creek Park and continues west.

D

Local Trail and Park Network



Park Features Lorne Park is quite small, despite its high profile. Of the 5.1 acres constituting the park boundaries, only 3.9 acres are within the park proper. Additional park lands continue north beyond the flood control wall to the banks of the Grand River or are consumed by Ballantyne Drive. The park site is physically separated into two halves by Ballantyne Drive along its east-west axis [see Figure I]. The park lands to the south of the road are fairly small (0.8 acres) and are home to the rose gardens, VON Memorial and park sign. The rose garden beds are laid out in a formal geometrical design. This pattern has no historical significance but rather, has evolved to permit improved access to the inner garden areas by maintenance staff. Additionally, the VON Memorial Dedication as seen on the adjacent photograph is located very close to Colborne Street, a major City thoroughfare, A tree line of mature coniferous trees buffers the park from the residential land uses to the south. The health and condition of many of these trees have deteriorated and some will require replacement in the near future. The majority of the park is located north of Ballantyne Drive encompassing approximately 2.7 acres of land which includes formal carpet bedding and annual floral displays. The northern edge of the park slopes up approximately 2 metres in elevation as a result of the construction of the concrete flood control wall along the southern bank of the Grand River.

VON Memorial and Rose Garden and Park Sign Location

Mature Coniferous Tree Line Buffer – South Edge of Park



Serving as a backdrop to the northern edge of the park, the concrete flood control wall protrudes anywhere from 1 to 3 feet (.3 to 1 metres) above the grade of the bank and is topped by a 4 foot (1.2m) galvanized steel railing along its length. A display of the Provincial Flags of Canada, erected to celebrate Canada’s Bi-Centennial, serves as the visual focal point of the park. Two perpendicular rows of linear flower beds visually align the flag display with the elaborate carpet bedding along the northern bank. At the extreme western end of the park a metal staircase over the flood control wall was installed to permit pedestrian access to the Grand River. A gazebo, built and dedicated to the Park by the Brantford Homebuilder’s Association was just recently removed from the park in the winter of 2004 due to significant structural failure. Just to the east of the former gazebo location is a small concrete pad which has been utilized by food vendors during the summer months. Ballantyne Drive, as it curves through the park, is in excess of 7 metres in width and is lined with pre-cast concrete curb blocks. Curbing exists along the full extent of the road on the north side and from Colborne Street to the about the location of the residential lots on the south side. An area along the south side of the road behind the residential lots has been left free of curbing to enable limited parallel on-site parking on the grass shoulder. With the exception of this uncurbed area, there is no formal parking area provided in the park.

Carpet Bedding Displays, Flag Display, Flood Control Wall and Railing

Former Gazebo in West End of Park



The Lorne Bridge forms part of the eastern edge of Lorne Park with an elaborate staircase and balustrade leading up from the northeastern corner of the park grounds to the bridge. There is also a pedestrian underpass which ties in to Fordview Park at this location. A pedestrian sidewalk runs the entire length of the eastern boundary of the park. A magnificent selection of mature growth deciduous trees is gracefully dispersed throughout the park. Intermixed among them are clusters of mature coniferous trees in various locations. Many of the coniferous trees are the result of transplant efforts after the construction of the flood control wall and are in poor health. Also situated in the northeast corner of the park in the vicinity of the staircase is the Brant’s Ford historic monument. The monument is comprised of a memorial stone and pathway leading to a commemorative sundial. An inoperative drinking fountain, flag pole display the Canadian flag and a memorial Magnolia tree are also located within this area of the park. Lighting in the park consists of only two floodlights, one illuminating the flag display and the other adjacent the residential properties pointing inward toward the park along Ballantyne Drive. The lights are secured atop wooden poles which are utilitarian and dated.

View of the Lorne Bridge from the East

Lorne Park Balustrade and Staircase to Lorne Bridge



FIGURE I – BASE FEATURES PLAN



Topography A review of the site elevations indicate that the topography of the park slopes from its highest point in the north along the flood control wall to its lowest point in the southeast corner of the park. Excluding the slope of the bank leading up to the wall, the grade throughout the park varies approximately 2.5 metres (8.2 feet) over a distance of approximately 100 metres (330 feet).

Pedestrian Underpass Under Lorne Bridge

A Magnificent Selection of Mature Deciduous Trees

Existing Park Sign



Historical Significance of Lorne Park Steeped in heritage, Lorne Park once formed part of the Grand River riverbed until flood control dykes were constructed in the early 1900’s. In 1784, Joseph Brant, a Mohawk Chief and decorated British Officer accredited with having won several battles during the US War of Independence, brought his tribes to the Grand River basin. It is in this location where Brant would cross his people into their new “homeland”. The area of the crossing became known as “Brant’s Ford” and the village which emerged across the river would come to be known as Brantford.1 What is Lorne Park today and the Lorne Bridge are named after the Marquis of Lorne, Governor General of Canada from 1878 to 1883. In 1914 Dunington-Grubb, a famous Landscape Architectural Firm, proposed that the City purchase the Lorne Park property to enlarge Agricultural Park (now Cockshutt Park) as far as the Lorne Bridge. The report also proposed the creation of an Oxford Park, “a small city square…at the southern approach to Lorne Bridge 2”. This park was to be the starting point for two “riverside drives” which would wind east and west along the southern bank of the Grand River and was envisaged as part of the western gateway into downtown. By 1920, the Brantford Parks Board had acquired the land that is now known as Lorne Park and Fordview Park to beautify the western gateway into Brantford at the river crossing. In 1923 the Town Planning Commission Report identified plans to develop a boulevard drive along the south side of the river

1 Canadian Connection Internet Site, www.canadian connection.com, 2004 2 City of Brantford, Preliminary Report to the Parks Commission on Future Development & Improvement, H.B & L.A. Dunington – Grubb, Landscape Architects, Toronto, 1914

from the Lorne Bridge through Agricultural Park out to Burford Road.

For a short time in the early 1930’s the lands of Lorne Park were known as “Pickwick Park” which was a very popular miniature golf course. By 1936 Lorne Park was had been laid out in formal flower beds and featured a central bathing area.

1914 Dunington-Grubb Plan2

Lorne Park (A western gateway into Brantford)

Pickwick Park, circa 1930, Photo Courtesy Brant Museum & Archives



Lorne Park and Lorne Bridge – circa 1935 – 1940, Photo courtesy of Brant Museum and Archives



In 1950 a sundial and boulder monument were placed in Lorne Park to mark Brant’s Ford and the settlement of what has become the City of Brantford. Today Lorne Park is regarded as Brantford’s horticultural showcase featuring a large carpet bed display which receives numerous proposals to highlight community anniversaries and special events, exquisite annual beds, a flag display representing each of the nation’s provinces and a memorial rose garden.

Brant’s Ford Monument

Carpet Bedding and Flag Display

Memorial Rose Garden

Annual Garden Display



3. PUBLIC CONSULTATION Public Consultation Program A public consultation program was undertaken to involve the public, park users and nearby residents in developing various park concept plans and obtain direction for the final park plan. This objective was accomplished through the facilitation of an initial public information session designed to introduce the project to the public, provide an overview of the study objectives, identify the issues and opportunities associated with Lorne Park and generate an appreciation for the various park uses and users. A meeting with the Lorne Park Steering Committee was held to review the input received from the first public meeting and to review draft concepts. Refinements were made to the preliminary concepts in preparation for presentation to the public. A second public meeting was held to present three conceptual park plans reflecting the input gathered from the first public information session. The public reviewed each of the concepts which represented varying degrees of re-design and were asked to comment on a preferred alternative(s). The conceptual plan alternatives and a summary of the public input received to date were then provided to City Staff for review and comment. Comments and directions received from the City were used to determine the preferred concept and refine the direction of the Lorne Park Master Plan. Discussions with the Lorne Park Master Plan Steering Committee were then held to review the concept plans and public input and to obtain guidance on the future direction for

Lorne Park. The Plan was then finalized and presented to the Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Advisory Committee for endorsement. Public Meeting No. 1 – Information Session A public information session was held on Thursday December 11th, 2003 held from 7:00 to 9:00 P.M in the Ryerson Elementary School Gymnasium. The meeting was advertised through the public display of posters, the publishing of a notice in the local newspaper and invitations were distributed to numerous user groups including:

those neighbours of Lorne Park in the immediate vicinity; Lorne Towers Club and Brant Towers Club at the

adjacent seniors apartment buildings; Tourism Brantford; Brantford Parks and Recreation; Brantford Heritage Committee; Brantford Multi—Use Trails Advisory Committee; Brantford Garden Club; Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Advisory Board; Victorian Order of Nurses (VON); Brantford Communities in Bloom Committee; Brantford Cycle Safety Task Force; City of Brantford Transit Services; Brantford Homebuilders Association; Brantford Master Gardeners; Grand River Conservation Authority; together with the Mayor and members of Council.

The public notice, comment sheet and a summary of the input obtained from the public information session held on December 11th, 2003 are attached to this report in Appendix I.



Approximately 25 park users, group representatives and local residents of the City attended the public forum to voice their ideas and thoughts with regard to the future of Lorne Park. Additional opportunities to provide input were made possible through the distribution of comment sheets at the public meeting, a posting of the comment sheet on the City’s web page as well as an additional circulation of the comment sheet by City staff. The meeting allowed the City Parks and Recreation Department to introduce the project and the Consultant Team to provide an overview of the project together with details and history of the park and its many uses and functions. The goal of the first meeting was to engage the public in discussion to identify opportunities and constraints associated with Lorne Park and to solicit input on general thoughts and opinions for the future direction of Lorne Park. Issues considered by the public during the meeting included:

Park access; Parking; Park amenities; Potential closure of the Ballantyne Drive access; Trail linkages; and Other issues identified by the public.

When asked to identify the many uses and users/groups in the park, the public acknowledged that wedding photo opportunities were at the top of the list during the weekends of the summer months. Other park users/uses included:

Wedding ceremonies; Bus tours; International visitors; Photo enthusiasts; Cyclists; Horse carriage rides;

Walking/jogging and other pathway/trail use; Visitors to the VON Memorial and rose garden; Karate and tai chi; Lunch time users; Seniors from the neighbouring apartment complex; Students from Ryerson Public School; Local residents; Family picnics; and Ceremonies around the flags.

A detailed analysis of the input received pertaining to the issues and opportunities associated with, or identified for, Lorne Park are addressed later in this report. Steering Committee Meeting Following the public meeting, three preliminary park concept plans were designed reflective of the input received through interviews with city staff, the findings of the public information session together with detailed analysis of the park by the consultant team. The concepts, together with a detailed site analysis, including strengths, weaknesses, problem areas and the identified issues were forwarded to the Steering Committee in advance of the meeting to support discussion and the identification of a Master Plan “Philosophy” for Lorne Park. Plan objectives, planning issues and opportunities as well as options regarding the approach to park design, plantings, furnishings and features within the park were discussed with the committee. A date and time was identified for Phase II of the public consultation program and the method and content for the community presentation were decided upon.



Public Meeting No. 2 - Review Concept Plans Three conceptual park plans were designed based on detailed site analysis, input from staff and direction obtained from the first public information session. The three concept plans were presented at an evening public meeting held on March 31st, 2004 in the Ryerson Public School Gymnasium from 7:00 to 9:00 P.M. Approximately 30 persons attended the meeting to review the plans and provide comments. Once again, a comment sheet was distributed to those in attendance and later by staff upon request. A total of 14 written responses were received. The comment sheets were used to identify the public perception of the concepts including specific likes, dislikes and recommended changes to the concepts. Additionally, the comment sheets requested each respondent to rank each plan and identify a preferred concept together with any components from the other plans or any key features or elements that they would like to see in the final Master Plan. A copy of the public notice and comment sheet and a summary of the responses and input received from the public can be found in Appendix II.



4. ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES Issues

hrough an analysis of public input and detailed site investigation, a number of issues were identified in connection with the future development, enhancement

and preservation of Lorne Park. The following issues are presented in no order of priority:

The park entry sequence and traffic along Ballantyne Drive through the park is a safety concern and visual impediment to the park;

In addition to standard automobile traffic,

transport trucks, school buses and fire trucks all utilize Ballantyne Drive through the park;

The park lacks dedicated on-site parking, cars and

tour buses line the park drive on busy weekends further compounding issues of pedestrian safety adjacent to the roadway;

Barrier-free accessibility - the park cannot be

accessed from the road due to the presence of the pre-cast concrete curb stops and there is no formal pathway to any of the park features;

Cyclists and other path users need appropriate

separation to ensure safety;

There are a lot of old growth trees along the dyke wall and the residential perimeter that need to be replaced and reorganized;

The existing trees are nice but dispersal of the trees results in limited shade areas for visitors;

The park lacks sufficient and appropriate lighting;

The adjacent City-owned parcel is small with limited

design opportunity for the provision of on-site parking;

The adjacent commercial property to the southeast is an aesthetic interference to the park and would make a complimentary addition if acquired by the City;

The flood control wall is a utilitarian backdrop to the park

and the vegetation beyond the wall obstructs the view of the Grand River;

The pedestrian underpass is perceived as dark, dirty and

unsafe and the ends of the underpass are constructed in a way that provides convenient areas to hide;

It was indicated that seniors from the neighbouring

apartment complex are choosing to cross the six lanes on Colborne Street to avoid using the underpass;

The location of the VON memorial and rose garden was

identified as being too close to the road - current location lacks the peaceful atmosphere it deserves;

Accessibility to memorials is another main concern - it

was identified that there is an annual ceremony at the memorial which draws approximately 150 to 200 people;

Access to washroom facilities - the Parks and Recreation

building sees use from park users during the day but the washrooms are not open after business hours or on weekends and the facilities are not accessible;

T



Opportunities The following park opportunities were identified for the future development, enhancement and preservation of Lorne Park and are presented in no order of priority:

Generally the public are very happy with the role of Lorne Park;

Acquisition of the adjacent commercial property

would provide excellent focal point potential, additional opportunity for park access and on-site parking as well as greatly enhancing the visual presence of the park from the surrounding environs;

Lorne Park should not be everything, it is an

elegant park, a place for peace and quiet and the enjoyment of the floral displays;

The horticultural focus of Lorne Park is unique and

should be enhanced with opportunity for educational enhancement including the labeling of gardens, staffing and interpretative displays;

The potential to further integrate the park into the

existing network of public space including Fordview Park (view of river), Brant’s Crossing Park and Cockshutt Park.

The neighbouring Brant’s Crossing Park is the start

of Trans Canada Trail (TCT) system in Brantford and the TCT pavilion is there.

Public suggestions were made to close Ballantyne Drive to vehicular traffic and establish it as multi-purpose trail;

The possible installation of bus bays on either side of

Colborne Street to control tour bus traffic in the park;

The VON is supportive to suggestions of relocating the rose garden and memorial and are flexible to suggestions of other forms of memorial if a more appropriate design were to be identified.

The staircase and Brant’s Crossing Monument at the east

end of the park is an important historical focal point;

Flag poles in Lorne Park were erected to celebrate Canada’s confederation. Opportunity exists to display each provincial tree to coincide with provincial flags; and

Potential to create unique venues to accommodate

wedding photos;



5. CONCEPT ALTERNATIVES Concept Plan Development

he public consultation program together with the opportunities and constraints analysis, led to the creation of three conceptual park plans representative of varying

intensities of park development and enhancement. Underlying these plans are certain common improvements and additions. Those key features common to each conceptual plan include:

New focal point potential;

New formalized parking opportunities;

New barrier-free accessible pathways linking park features and parking;

New pathway to safely accommodate cyclists;

and

Painting of the railing along the flood control wall to blend into the background.

T



Concept Plan No. 1 The first concept plan proposed only modest improvements to the park. The key elements to Concept Plan No. 1 [See Figure II] included:

Ballantyne Drive

Existing alignment will remain, pavement will be reduced (road width) and short term bus drop off will be accommodated towards Sherwood Drive; and

Speed humps will be included. Other Improvements

New 25 car parking lot will be constructed with access off of Gilkison;

New gazebo / pavilion to be constructed as a

focal point;

New sidewalk connecting gazebo area to balustrade;

Safely accommodate cyclists;

Floral gardens to remain intact except for the

relocation of the flags; and

Flood control railing to be painted black to blend into background.

Comments

Does nothing to address through traffic problem;

Cost effective.



FIGURE II – CONCEPT PLAN No. 1



Concept Plan No. 2 The second concept plan reflects an integrated design approach creating a series of interlocking meadows and incorporating both formal and informal planting beds. This scheme proposes a more picturesque park than the formal carpet bedding design aesthetic that is present today. Key elements to Concept Plan No. 2 [See Figure III] include:

Ballantyne Drive

Relocation of the park entrance toward Gilkison to allow right angle access only (right turns only) and to discourage through traffic; and

Access from Gilkison to permit left turn access into

the park.

Other improvements

Park pathway linking gazebo to other park features;

Bicycle path along toe of flood control slope;

Urban plaza edge along Colborne, with more

formal plaza entry;

Rose garden entry with a new park entrance gate; and

Introduction of perennial beds and flowering trees

and shrubs to create picturesque park.



FIGURE III – CONCEPT PLAN No. 2



Concept Plan No. 3 The third and final concept plan proposes the most significant changes through major interventions to the existing road and pathway network. The key elements to Concept Plan No. 3 [See Figure IV] include the following:

Ballantyne Drive

New park entrances to accommodate both vehicles and pedestrians are proposed;

Existing road to be closed and a new access (T-

intersection) off of Gilkison is proposed; and

Additional parking for buses (with drop off) and cars is proposed along Ballantyne Drive.

Other Improvements

A series of event areas for photo opportunities are proposed to further capitalize on wedding events;

Formal park entry sequence with gazebo

terminating the vista (with garden in the foreground is proposed); and

A series of park components (event areas and

photo opportunity sites) is proposed, including;

1. Gazebo and related gardens 2. A grotto (rock garden) 3. The Canadian walk (provincial trees) 4. The Belvedere Plaza 5. The Rose Arbor and Mall 6. Flowering and shade trees will surround a

central (axial) open space



FIGURE IV – CONCEPT PLAN No. 3



6. PREFERRED CONCEPT PLAN The Preferred Plan

fter a thorough review of the three concept plan alternatives by the public, the steering committee and staff, a preferred concept plan was selected and refined

to reflect the ultimate vision for Lorne Park. Essentially, the preferred park concept for Lorne Park combines the picturesque aesthetic proposed in Concept Plan No. 2 with the proposed road design in Concept Plan No. 3 (i.e. closure of Ballantyne Drive off of Colborne Street with access re-directed to Gilkison Street). The picturesque park design is comprised of a series of interlocking meadows. The existing carpet bedding is retained with enhanced perennial shrub plantings and annuals. This aesthetic was identified as being the most favourable for Lorne Park. Park Access Overall, there was tremendous concern expressed by the public with regard to the existing Ballantyne Road access from Colborne Street. A brief show of hands from the public indicated that the majority of those in attendance at the second public meeting were in favour of closing the existing Ballantyne Road access to Colborne Street. Suggestions were received that included reversing the direction of traffic and redesigning the access to Gilkison Street. After review of the concept alternatives by the public and staff, the preferred road alignment for the future development of Lorne Park was identified as similar to that

shown in Concept Plan No. 3 with vehicular access coming into the park from Gilkison Street approximately 10 metres east of the intersection of Winniet Street. Ideally over the long term, with the additional purchase of land, an exact "T" intersection of Winniet Street leading directly into the park can be achieved. (See Appendix III - "Ultimate Park Plan"). Parking Concern was expressed about the proposal for parallel parking along the south side of Ballantyne Drive directly behind the homes along Gilkison Street, However, it was felt that if this parking was simply removed the other parking spaces identified throughout the park would likely be insufficient on their own. As such, it was suggested that the westerly parking area be relocated to the north side of Ballantyne Drive in this same location. This revised location was preferred as it removed the pedestrian/vehicle conflict of persons crossing the road from the parking area to the main park and it increased the separation from the adjacent homes. City staff further requested that the future design for the corner lot (automotive use) could/should include additional parking adjacent to that which has already been proposed. To address the concerns of bus traffic and parking within the park the preferred solution identified the construction of a bus layby area along the southbound lane of Colborne Street just south of the bridge. This design would enable tour buses (and perhaps wedding parties) to pull off the road and idle to allow passengers to disembark and enjoy the features of the park without requiring the buses to enter and maneuver throughout the park grounds. It was identified that tour buses generally spend only brief periods at the park (15 minutes) but that the layby should be designed to ensure that the full aesthetic of the park can still be experienced from Colborne Street as a gateway into the downtown.

A



Pathways/Trails There was agreement amongst the public and staff that separate pathways for pedestrians and cyclists are needed within Lorne Park. City staff identified that one main thoroughfare for cyclists is required and that it should be of a different width (3m) and paving material than the other pedestrian pathways within the park. It was identified that this connection must be well designed to discourage speed along this section of the cycling trail as well as to discourage cyclists from leaving the trail and entering the pedestrian pathway network. The design elements of the bicycle trail should differ as much as possible from that of the pedestrian pathway; in width; material and design so as to preclude, to the greatest extent possible, cyclists from utilizing other pathways in the park and to ensure that speed is controlled through this leg of the trail. The use of bollards will help deter cyclists speed. Note that berming and landscaping will screen the bicycle path. Additionally, staff identified that pedestrian walkways should be 1.8 metres in width as a minimum to provide for accessibility and that a hard surface treatment is preferred as loose materials (screenings) are hard to maintain. The Master Plan indicates concrete for the walkways, asphalt for the bicycle path and interlocking pavers for the plaza spaces and areas of landscape emphasis. Park Aesthetic A number of park features and elements for Lorne Park were reviewed and discussed with the public and staff. Those features identified as preferred for inclusion in the Lorne Park Master Plan include:

Gazebo A new and improved gazebo was seen as an important feature but that it should not be in front of the carpet bedding.

Rock Garden A rock garden was well received by the

public and staff and it was preferred that a water element be integrated into this feature as well.

Rose Garden That part of the rose garden (possibly the

VON portion) could be located around the Gazebo and that memorialization could somehow be incorporated into low seat walls or paving, etc.

Flags Relocate the flags behind the carpet bedding

on top of the flood control slope. Pedestrian Mall/Arbor The pedestrian mall identified along

Colborne Street was preferred by the public and staff; however, it was cautioned that the design must not obstruct views of the park from the street. This same treatment should be applied on the opposite side of Colborne Street in Fordview Park to build on the “gateway” into the downtown. There were also suggestions that a park sign could be incorporated into the design of the trellis structure.

Accessibility It was identified that, in addition to the

pathways proposed throughout the park, at least one area in the park should have some form of raised planters or low wall edges so that persons with various physical limitations are able to relax and enjoy the gardens. Potential areas for consideration included the pedestrian mall or gazebo area.



Land Acquisition The public felt very strongly that the

adjacent automotive use at the southeast corner of the park should be purchased by the City and incorporated into Lorne Park. Purchasing the lot on Gilkison opposite Winniet Street would also improve the alignment to the Ballantyne Drive intersection (i.e. a “T” intersection).

The design for Lorne Park should stand on its own without the inclusion of additional lands. Should acquisition occur, the Master Plan must also have the flexibility to incorporate these lands which could be used for additional parking, location for a more elaborate park sign and pedestrian entrance.

Fordview Park Both the public and staff identified

that Fordview Park should be incorporated into the Master Plan as an adjacent green space. Staff identified that Fordview Park is “a transition from the trails to a more formal horticultural park” but that certain elements of the Lorne Park design should be transposed to Fordview Park, (building on the gateway theme). The VON garden should not be moved to Fordview Park as this park is structured around the trails and is home to a large interpretive sign display and maps.

Park Amenities It was suggested by several representatives

from the Heritage Committee and staff that the existing cast end memorial benches be considered as the park standard.

It was also recommended that a waste

receptacle complimentary to the existing cast end benches be chosen. The existing Moluk containers are not suitable for a park of this caliber.

Preferred lighting for the park should be

complimentary to the benches and other amenities in the park and should be “graceful and elegant”. The heritage lighting currently utilized in the downtown was felt to be of too grand a scale and there was no desire to utilize any of the existing lighting styles from other City parks.



7. LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN The Master Plan Structure

ollowing the Public Meeting held March 31st, 2004, and the review of the concept alternatives by staff, the final Master Plan for Lorne Park was prepared to incorporate

the direction received to date. With respect to park redevelopment, two phases are suggested. The first phase of the Master Plan addresses the future direction of Lorne Park working within the existing park boundary. The second phase (long term vision, ultimate plan) reflects the potential uses for Lorne Park which should be considered if adjacent properties are purchased. These separate components of the Master Plan have been designed to allow for independent implementation of the Plan without the additional lands or for the seamless integration of the two parts should additional lands be acquired in the future. The following outlines the key components and the governing rationale for the facilities and features of the Lorne Park Master Plan to assist in implementation. The “Ultimate Plan” design has been appended to this document as Appendix III should the City acquire the adjacent lands.

The Master Plan Overall Park Design As indicated in previous sections, the vision for Lorne Park and the key redevelopment objectives remain as follows:

To continue to showcase annual gardens and related horticultural displays;

To act as a south gateway to the historic downtown core;

To be a complimentary, yet distinct horticultural showpiece;

To be part of a linear recreational experience in concert with adjacent connected parks; and

To retain and enhance the role of Lorne Park as an important wedding photo location.

Aesthetically, the park will continue to emphasize its “gardenesque” nature which focuses on floral and bedding out garden displays. However, with the introduction of a pathway network and additional flowering trees and shrubs, the park will become more picturesque in nature and contain additional focal points and features such as the rock garden and proposed gazebo.

F



PHASE I INITIATIVES The following summarizes the Master Plan components. Access Vehicular access to the Park from Colborne Street is removed and re-directed to the existing City-owned property at 28 Gilkison Street directly across from Winniet Street. The existing property will require complete redevelopment to facilitate the new vehicular entrance and parking area. Ballantyne Drive through the park should remain as a one-way street in its existing westerly direction. The width may be narrower than municipal standards to assist in traffic calming. A sufficient landscape buffer/fencing should be installed along the western boundary of the park to mitigate the impact of the park and access drive on the adjacent homes. All road surfaces will be constructed of asphalt and curbed to current City standards. Parking Two parking areas are to be constructed within the park. All parking areas should be constructed of asphalt paving with concrete curbing and painted lines. The first parking area (approximately 9 spaces) is located at the entrance to the park off of Gilkison Street. This parking area should be constructed on the east side of the entrance with stalls perpendicular to the direction of travel to ensure that headlights and idling engines are directed away from the adjacent homes on Gilkison Street.

The second parking area (approximately 16 cars) is located along the north side of Ballantyne Drive with stalls perpendicular to the flow of traffic. This location allows direct pedestrian access from the parking area into the park without the need to cross the street and further removes the use from the adjacent homes to the south. Accessible parking is best in this location due to the proximity of adjacent sidewalks and connection to the formal park pathway system. Bicycle Path / Trail Linkage The bicycle path is to be routed along the toe of the slope of the flood control wall from the pedestrian underpass linking Fordview Park in the east and extending to the west end of the park. The bicycle path is to be 3 metres in width, wider than the pedestrian pathways, and constructed of asphalt. A small bermed planting area south along the entire path is proposed to visually screen the path from the gardens and to ensure the cyclists remain on the pathway. To the greatest extent possible, cyclists will be discouraged from utilizing other pathways in the park and to ensure that speed is controlled through this segment. The existing cyclist barrier at the underpass shall remain, and bollards and special paving will discourage cyclists from using the pedestrian walk around the oval area. Pedestrian Pathway Other than plaza spaces (see below), the pedestrian pathways should be 1.8 metres in width and constructed of concrete for ease of maintenance and accessibility.



Pathways are designed with appropriate grades at adjacent parking and pedestrian accesses to ensure barrier free accessibility into and throughout the park. Pedestrian Mall The pedestrian mall will be designed as a unique entrance trellis feature (see photograph of representative trellis) with an integrated park name sign. The trellis feature is proposed for the main park entry along Colborne Street and it is recommended that this featured be mirrored on the east side of Colborne Street as an entrance feature into Fordvew Park so as to emphasize this “gateway” into downtown.

This wood trellis should be planted with flowering vines. Pavement of this plaza entry should be in natural stone pavers to reinforce a sense of entry to the park. There is an opportunity for memorials at either end of the trellis.

Belvedere Entry Plaza The existing staircase and balustrade should be refinished to its original condition.

The plaza shall be constructed of special interlocking paving stone to set it apart from the other hard surface treatments within the park. The Master Plan indicates how paving can be extended beyond the staircases to accommodate wedding parties. The Brant’s Ford boulder monument could be integrated into the water feature (water basin) proposed for the rock garden.

Bollards will be installed to define the pedestrian and bicycle zones in the area where the trail links to Lorne Park at the underpass. Rock Garden / Brant’s Ford Monument A rock garden will terrace down from the edge of the Lorne Bridge abutment. White limestone armourstone shall be placed to allow a variety of rock garden plants to grow amongst the boulders. A small waterfall cascading down into a basin will act to mitigate noise form Colborne Street. It is proposed that the Brant’s Ford boulder be placed within the water basin.

Representative Trellis Style

Representative Rock Garden



Gazebo Specialty paving, topiary displays and the relocated VON memorial radiate around the gazebo. Rose Garden The rose garden will remain in its present location and be redesigned for improved maintenance. Flag Display The existing flag display has been removed and a new flag display representing the ten (10) Provinces and three (3) Territories is situated on new flag poles behind the carpet bedding at the top of the flood control wall.

Existing Vegetation, Gardens and Plantings It is proposed to retain the majority of trees in the park. Only the spruce trees around the proposed new gazebo feature will require removal. Supplemental planting of conifers should be undertaken between the park road and the residential homes on Gilkison Street. A new spruce tree should also be planted immediately in front (south) of the existing spruce tree which is used to screen the pole used to light the carpet bed display, as this tree is near the end of its life. In addition to the rock garden and redesigning the rose garden for better maintenance, two (2) new additional gardens are proposed.

i) Topiary garden

Located around the gazebo, this garden will incorporate the VON memorials and roses.

ii) Raised Scented Garden

These raised beds will have scented flowers and perennials for all park users to enjoy.

Representative Gazebo Style



The following flowering trees are recommended for planting:

White cherry trees and pink crabapple specimens are proposed to line the parking areas and pathways.

Ornamental pears and Ivory Silk lilac trees will be

used for street planting.

Ruby Red horse chestnut tress will be planted as large specimen trees within the open lawn areas.

Railing (Flood Control Wall) The existing railing atop of the flood control wall will be painted black to blend in with the backdrop of the mature trees and shrubs along the rivers edge.

Park Lighting Roadway lighting to municipal standards is proposed for the new access road and parking lots. Pedestrian lighting is only proposed for the southern section of the oval walk connecting the parking lots and Gilkison Street to the Rock Garden area. No other areas are proposed to be illuminated. Feature lighting – other than maintaining the lighting of the carpet bedding area no other lighting is proposed. Fordview Park Transpose the elements of the pedestrian mall to Fordview Park to reinforce the “gateway” concept into downtown.

Amenities The aging concrete and wood benches will be removed from the park and the existing cast end memorial benches will be adopted as the new standard for bench seating in Lorne Park. The City shall continue its program of allowing the public to purchase memorial benches for Lorne Park up to a maximum capacity (to be determined). A row of bench seating will be provided along the southern leg of the internal pathway to facilitate the observance and enjoyment of the carpet bedding and flower beds. Adjacent Properties It is a recommendation of this plan that the City acquire the adjacent commercial property at the northwest corner of Gilkison Street and Colborne Street and the adjacent residential property to the west of the property currently owned by the City to allow for the expansion of Lorne Park.



FIGURE V – LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN – PHASE I



8. MASTER PLAN PHASING

t is recognized that the implementation of the various components of the Lorne Park Master Plan will occur over a number of years. Key factors and considerations which play

the greatest role in affecting the timing and phasing of the Plan include:

Capital Budget availability to construct and install the various components of the Plan;

Operating Budget availability to facilitate the care and

maintenance of the new components installed as a result of the Plan;

Coordination of construction with other City

maintenance and replacement initiatives;

Volunteer services, special donations or commemorations and special projects to assist with capital funding;

Logical sequencing of construction upgrades; and

Urgency of identified need. Safety related

improvements will be assigned a higher priority. The schedule in Section 9 outlines the recommended phasing for implementation of the Lorne Park Master Plan in conjunction with preliminary capital cost estimates.

9. CAPITAL COST ESTIMATE

s a guide for the municipal budgeting process a preliminary range of estimated costs has been provided for each component of the Lorne Park Master Plan. It should be noted

that the following estimates are based on the magnitude of construction and have been calculated without knowledge of the detail design. As such, all figures are to be considered approximate and to be used for budget planning purposes only. The following schedule identifies preliminary capital cost estimates for the various components of recommended park development.

I A



Phase I - Cost for Short Term Plan

Priority Component Notes Order of Magnitude Cost (x1000) /Priority

H – M – L H M L Transportation and Circulation Improvements Transportation Initiatives ! - Closure of Ballantyne Drive Removal and restoration of 960 m² of roadway 50 ! - Construction of new park access road and

parking lots (25 spaces) Construction of road/parking lots to urban section (1200 m² @ $40.00/m²)

50

! - Construction of bus lay-by lanes on Colborne Street

Removal of boulevard, road reconstruction for lane

50

! - Roadway lighting 5 New poles/ luminaires for new park access road and parking lot

25

Bicycle & Pedestrian Pathways ! - Bicycle path Asphalt, 3m width ( 600 m² @ $30.00/m²) 18 ! - Construction of sidewalks Concrete, 1.5 – 2.0 m width (800 m² @

$50.00/m²) 40

! - Pedestrian lighting Decorative pole/ luminaire – rock garden to parking lot entry 6 items

18

Plaza Spaces ! - Belvedere Plaza Interlocking pavers c/w concrete bands and

bollards @ $90.00/ m² 25

! - Colborne Street Plaza Natural stone paving @ $150.00 /m² 40 ! - Gazebo paving area Paving area @ $90.00/m² 25 Vegetation / Planting ! - Tree removals Remove coniferous trees (west side) 1 ! - Replanting of Coniferous Trees For visual screen 4 ! - New tree planting Approximately 20 flowering trees 8 ! - Grading, sodding and ground covers Screening of bicycle path/ restoration 8 ! - Irrigation replacement / improvements 15

(Continued…)



Phase I - Cost for Short Term Plan (…Continued)


H – M – L H M L - Specialty Garden Areas ! - Topiary Mosaic ulture 2 ! - Scent garden Raised accessible beds 10 ! - Rock garden Alpine plants, flower trees, perennials 2 ! - Modified rose garden 1 Park Features / Furnishing ! - Gazebo Unique architectural design 30 ! - Rock Garden and Water Feature Armourstone and waterfall 15 ! - Benches 8 Benches 10 ! - Trash receptacles 5 receptacles 3 ! - Relocation of flags 13 New flag poles, supplies and installed 15 ! - Rail improvements Dyke wall painting of rail 1 ! - Wood trellis At Colborne Street drop off 50 Sub-Total 243 224 49 15% Contingency 37 34 7 Total 594

APPENDIX I

Public Meeting No. 1 December 11th, 2003

City of Brantford LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN PUBLIC MEETING COMMENT SHEET

Name: __________________________________ Address: __________________________________ Postal Code: __________________________________

The City of Brantford Parks and Recreation Department has initiated the preparation of a Master Plan for Lorne Park. The Consulting Team of Monteith Brown Planning Consultants and Rodger Todhunter Associates has been retained by the City to assist in this process.

When complete, the Master Plan will guide the future development of Lorne Park, taking into consideration the needs of park users, the public and the local neighbourhood. The following questions are intended to provide feedback to the Consulting Team on a number of issues. Your assistance in filling out this form would be most appreciated.

1. What is your INVOLVEMENT with Lorne Park?

Neighbourhood Resident; Park User; Trail User; Park User Group (specify __________); Other (specify______________)

2. In your opinion, what are the three most important qualities of Lorne Park that you would like to see PRESERVED or ENHANCED? (Please list

in order of priority)

1) _______________________________________________________________________

2) _______________________________________________________________________ 3) _______________________________________________________________________

3. In your opinion, what are the three major issues to address in Lorne Park? (Please list in order of priority)

1) _______________________________________________________________________

2) _______________________________________________________________________ 3) _______________________________________________________________________

December 11, 2003Ryerson Public School

City of Brantford Public Meeting – December 11, 2003 Lorne Park Master Plan

4. What are the two things you LIKE and DISLIKE most about Lorne Park?

Like: 1) _______________________________________________________________________

2) _______________________________________________________________________

Dislike: 1) _______________________________________________________________________

2) _______________________________________________________________________

5. Please feel free to provide ADDITIONAL COMMENT regarding Lorne Park below:

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Thank you for attending this public meeting. Additional opportunity for public comment will be advertised as the Project progresses. If you wish to submit your comments at a later date, or if you know someone who was unable to attend the meeting, comment sheets or questions can be directed to:

Mr. Jay McGuffin

Monteith Brown Planning Consultants, 610 Princess Avenue, London, Ontario, N6B 2B9 Tel.: 519.686.1300 fax: 519.681.1690 e-mail: [email protected]

Page 1 of 2

LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN Public Meeting No.1 Comment Sheet Results December 11th, 2003 The following is a summary of the results obtained from the comment sheets distributed at the public meeting. 1. What is your INVOLVEMENT with Lorne Park?

Category Number of Responses Neighbourhood Resident √√√

Park User √√√ Trail User √√√√

Park User Group Other √ - Resident of West Brant

√ - P.R.W. Board 2. In your opinion, what are the three most important qualities of Lorne Park that you would like to see PRESERVED or ENHANCED? (Please list in order of priority)

1st Priority 2nd Priority 3rd Priority • Rose garden made bigger • Gardens (3) • Historical information

(plaques/monuments) • Passive Use Area • Pathways with shaded areas

• English gardens • User friendly • Trail connections • Security • Preserve the staircase off of Lorne

bridge • Improved wheelchair access (2)

• Sculptures/Waterfalls • Shade (2) • Floral arrangements (2) • More benches • Designated parking areas for private

vehicles

3. In your opinion, what are the three major issues to address in Lorne Park? (Please list in order of priority)

1st Priority 2nd Priority 3rd Priority • Parking • Better access (2) • Traffic (speed) (4)

• More trails/Better connection (3) • Vandalism • Accessibility • Vendors

• Picture areas • Public awareness • Smoother paved areas for trails • Parking

Public Meeting No. 1 Lorne Park Master Plan Comment Sheet Results December 11th, 2004

Page 2 of 2

4. What are two things you LIKE and DISLIKE about Lorne Park?

LIKE DISLIKE • Quiet areas • Gardens (4) • Passiveness • Always well maintained • Historical connection to Brantford • Overall beauty • Flags and native plaques • Accessibility

• Not big enough • Lighting • Traffic/Speed of vehicles (4) • Accessibility (3) • Limited view of the river

Other comments:

- Would like to see the VON gardens moved to Fordview Park. This would improve Fordview thus enhancing Lorne Park area. - Connect Lorne and Fordview parks together. The two should enhance each other. - Provide parking on Colborne. - Provide better signage for Fordview parking. - Make photo areas in both parks. - Provide off street parking off of Gilkison for Lorne Park. - Provide a rain/shade area such as a gazebo in Lorne Park. - Perhaps the rose garden be relocated to the park itself and use the space to ensure safe parking and close proximity for visitors.

Public Meeting Notes Lorne Park Master Plan – Appendix I December 11, 2003

Page 1 of 5

LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN Notes of Public Meeting No.1 December 11, 2003 A. INTRODUCTION The following is a brief summation of the findings of the public meeting held on December 11th, 2003 at Ryerson Public School. This meeting was the first step in the public consultation program for the Lorne Park Master Plan process. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the Lorne Park Master Plan Project to the public and to gather ideas and comments to assist in planning for the future direction of Lorne Park as Brantford’s finest “Horticultural Showcase”. Additional opportunities to provide input were made possible through the distribution of comment sheets at the public meeting, a posting of the comment sheet on the City’s web page as well as an additional circulation of the comment sheet by City staff. Approximately 25 park users, group representatives and local residents attended the public forum to voice their ideas and thoughts with regard to the future of Lorne Park. Additional comments were also received from the public and City staff in advance and after the meeting. B. MEETING SUMMARY The following summarizes the findings of the public input received from the first phase of the consultation program. 1. Existing Park Users and Key Use Patterns

A survey of attendees indicates that the park is utilized by: • local residents, students from Ryerson Elementary, families and picnickers; • wedding groups for photographs and to a lesser extent ceremonies on a 1st come 1st serve basis. As many as five wedding groups

occupy the park at one time; • karate and tai-chi groups; • horse carriage tours, bus tours and international tourists, pedestrians and cyclists; • seniors from the neighbouring apartment buildings; • ceremonies around the flags; and • Victorian Order of Nurses (VON),memorial visitations and annual ceremony.


Page 2 of 5

2. Potential Park Opportunities

Role of Lorne Park • a great number of people indicated that they were very happy with the current role of Lorne Park; • several individuals expressed that they do not want Lorne Park to try to be everything, that this is an elegant park, a place for peace

and quiet and the enjoyment of the floral displays; • the horticultural focus of Lorne Park is unique and should be enhanced with an opportunity for an educational component including the

labeling of gardens, staffing and interpretative displays; Potential Park Opportunities (Continued)

• Lorne Park is perceived by many as more of a “blanket on the grass” type park vs. a “picnic table” type park; • the potential integration of the surrounding parks into a network of public space was identified to include Lorne Park, Fordview Park

(view of river), Brant’s Crossing Park and Cockshutt Park.

Transportation and Access • suggestions were made to close Ballantyne Drive to vehicular traffic and establish it as multi-purpose trail; • it was identified that there is a need to control the bus access to the site, the possible installation of bus bays on either side of

Colbourne was suggested; • there is a need for a better pathway to provide barrier free access to the park and its features/floral displays; • there is a potential to turn the City owned parcel fronting Gilkison Street into a parking area for the park; • cyclists are coming off the bridge and using the underpass into Lorne Park; there needs to be a connection through the park to

adequately separate cyclists from pedestrians and other park users for safety reasons; • the neighbouring Brant’s Crossing Park is the start of Trans Canada Trail (TCT) system in Brantford and the TCT pavilion is there. Park Features • the VON were very supportive to suggestions of relocating the rose garden and memorial and were flexible to suggestions of other

forms of memorial if a more appropriate design were to be identified. There were suggestions of using the bridge wall as a memorial wall;

• the staircase at the east end of the park was identified as an important focal point to the park; • washroom opportunities along the trail were identified as a potential opportunity for the park;


Page 3 of 5

• the flag poles in Lorne Park were erected to celebrate the bi-centennial and the Park also had the official tree of the bi-centennial. There could be an opportunity to display each provincial tree to coincide with provincial flags;

• the park has potential to have specific areas designed to accommodate wedding photos which would help organize wedding parties and the use of the park during these busy times;

• Questions were asked as to the City’s consideration of purchasing the commercial property at the southeast corner of the park? A representative from the City responded that the purchase of the property has been considered but that the asking price is cost prohibitive.

3. Perceived Park Constraints

Role of Lorne Park • overall the indication was that Lorne Park is satisfying its role. Transportation and Access • the greatest concerns with Lorne Park involve vehicle conflict and general accessibility to and throughout the site;

Perceived Park Constraints (Continued)

• there is concern about the volume and speed of the existing vehicular traffic in Lorne Park from a cycling/pedestrian perspective; • transport trucks, school buses, fire trucks in addition to standard automotive traffic were all identified as users of Ballantyne Drive as a

short-cut through the park; • it was identified that buses in the park are often problematic as there is no room to maneuver or park the vehicles; • there is no place to skateboard or rollerblade in Lorne Park due to the heavy vehicular traffic; • the possibility of closing Ballantyne to vehicles was identified; • the adjacent City-owned parcel is small with limited design opportunity with respect to the provision of on-site parking.

Pedestrian Underpass • the pedestrian underpass was described as dark and smelly, the lights are often vandalized and it was perceived by many to be

unsafe; • the ends of the tunnel were constructed in such a way as to provide convenient areas to hide; • it was indicated that some seniors are choosing to cross the six lanes on Colborne Street to avoid using the underpass.


Page 4 of 5

Landscaping • there are a lot of old growth trees along the dyke wall and the residential perimeter that need to be replaced and reorganized; • the existing trees are nice but some complained that shade is difficult to achieve for any length of time due to the dispersal of the trees.

Maintenance • there is some vandalism occurring in the park including the theft of the flags and destruction of park features and lighting; Park Features • the location of the VON memorial and rose garden was identified as being too close to the road. The current location lacks the

peaceful atmosphere that it deserves; • accessibility to the memorials was another main concern and it was identified that there is an annual ceremony at the memorial which

draws approximately 150 to 200 people; • there are no after hours washrooms in the area, the Parks and Recreation building sees use from park users during the day but the

washrooms are not open after business hours or on weekends and the facilities are not barrier-free; • the lack of sufficient and appropriate park lighting was identified as an issue; • the commercial property in the southeast corner is an aesthetic interference, the operator stores used tires and other scrap material, a

visual buffer and property standards enforcement are needed.


Page 5 of 5

4. Potential Future Improvements The following features, amenities and design considerations were identified as possible improvements to Lorne Park.

• different types of gardens were identified as possible additions, special scent gardens, etc.; • additional benches for viewing specialized plantings were identified as a potential opportunity; • there was an interest in vine covered arbors and trellises as areas to provide consistent shade to seating areas; • the establishment of consistent design features and park elements; • a concession building/washroom facility was identified with divided support. Suggestions of a country house or a tea room were

brought forward as a convenient park attraction and an opportunity to provide washrooms, refreshments, snacks, air conditioning etc.. The idea in principle was supported as a positive addition to the Lorne Park experience while a general concern was also expressed with regard to the potential for increased litter to the grounds and vandalism to the building and facilities after-hours;

• it was also identified that washrooms and a concession are available at Cockshutt Park next door (only at certain times); • Again it was mentioned that Ballantyne Drive takes you right past Cockshutt Park (adjacent to Lorne Park). There was an importance

suggested to maintaining the purpose of Lorne Park and allowing the other adjacent parks to fulfill their intended roles. Examples of concessions and children’s play areas at the neighbouring Cockshutt Park were cited, also the proposed concession at Brant’s Crossing was mentioned;

• a restaurant was identified as a potential opportunity if the City could establish private sector interest to operate it; • in response to a suggestion for music in the park it was once again stressed that other City parks satisfy this need (i.e Victoria Park

bandshell); • the illumination of key features in the park was identified as a potential opportunity; • the establishment of distinct wedding photo areas; • if the roadway has to stay can parking be limited to one side and not the other; • it will be important to have regard for the adjacent residents; • an option to relocate the rose garden and VON memorial was identified to enable the re-alignment of the entrance to the park; • the City responded to a question regarding the possibility of the municipal purchase of the adjacent properties that it would likely be a

long term recommendation; • It was suggested that the City appeal to the private sector to purchase adjacent properties; • there was a question as to the existence of a current Marquis of Lorne, who originally opened the Lorne Bridge and if this is still a

noble family perhaps the City could contact them for a potential donation to the park.

APPENDIX II

Public Meeting No. 2 March 31st, 2004

Lorne Park Master Plan Public Meeting Page 1 March 31, 2004

LORNE PARK master plan PUBLIC MEETING TO REVIEW CONCEPTS

March 31st, 2004

We would like to thank everyone for attending this meeting to review the concept plans and assist in the selection of a preferred Plan for Lorne Park. As we present each of the concept plans please take a moment to provide your comments below and at the end of the presentation we would ask you to indicate your selection of a preferred Plan and/or components. Please leave your completed comment sheets at the desk by the door as you leave. Additionally, comment sheets can be mailed or faxed to:

Mr. J. McGuffin, Monteith Brown Planning Consultants, 610 Princess Avenue, London, ON, N6B 2B9,

Tel: (519) 686-1300, Fax: (519) 681-1690, e-mail: [email protected] NAME & ORGANIZATION OR GROUP ADDRESS & POSTAL CODE

PLEASE INDICATE WHICH FEATURES/ELEMENTS YOU LIKE AND/OR DISLIKE: LIKE DISLIKE

RECOMMENDED CHANGES:

CONCEPT PLAN No. 1






CONCEPT PLAN No. 2

CONCEPT PLAN No. 3


P

LEASE RANK THE CONCEPT PLANS IN THE ORDER OF YOUR PREFERENCE WITH 1 REPRESENTING THE HIGHEST AND THREE REPRESENTING THE LOWEST. ____Plan No. 1 ____Plan No. 2 ____Plan No. 3 IF THERE ARE ANY COMPONENTS FROM ONE OF THE OTHER CONCEPT PLANS OR ANY FEATURES OR ELEMENTS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE ADDED, REMOVED OR CHANGED ON YOUR PREFERRED PLAN PLEASE LIST THEM BELOW. _________________________________________________________________________________________

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PLEASE SELECT A PREFERRED CONCEPT PLAN:

Page 1 of 3

LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN Public Meeting No.2 Comment Sheet Results March 31st, 2004 The following is a summary of the results obtained from the comment sheets distributed at the public meeting.

RANKING PLAN LIKES DISLIKES RECOMMENDED CHANGES 1st 2nd 3rd # 1 - bike trail

- maintains the current role, adds parking - roadway as is - parking lot addition - suggested rock garden - more flowering shrubs - speed bumps - easy access to park - no traffic hold-up to access park - cost to changes - ideas of keeping carpet beds - relocating flags - bike path - existing park features

- Does not fully address issues of traffic, accessibility (still only on edges of park)

- roadway from Colborne has to go! - Parking, speeding - Colborne West entrance - Traffic flow - too dangerous - Not enough signage as to speed and "no

parking" signs on Ballantyne Drive - Entrance off Colborne is dangerous - Keeping turn onto Ballantyne as is - Gazebo - Fails to deal with traffic entry speed - Ballantyne Drive cutting through park - Bus parking on left

- more needs to be done to address traffic and accessibility issues

- speed bumps may not be enough

- speed bumps needed - relocate rose garden to back

right corner - get rid of garage - connection to river

necessary

1 2 10

RANKING PLAN LIKES DISLIKES RECOMMENDED CHANGES 1st 2nd 3rd # 2 - gazebo/fountain area

- allows for central park area - bike path / trail - addresses some of the traffic concerns

and accessibility - lots of benches - lots of sidewalks - Entrance from Colborne to Ballantyne - Walkway around gazebo - Parking off Gilkison - Easier than plan 3 to park and walk to

gazebo for wedding pictures - Entry gate - Purchase lot

- Ballantyne still open - Park roadway still on Colborne - Colborne West entrance - Roadway still separates parks - Keep road as is - could slow down traffic on Colborne Street - bus loading and unloading by Colborne St - left turn off Colborne is dangerous - do not take out carpet beds - too many trees - bike path - potential traffic problems along Colborne St.

- will north bound cars be allowed to turn left into park entrance?

- Sharp turn on Colborne - mall - seems a bit awkward beside entry

gate

- roadway from Option 3 - move gazebo - rock garden, enclosed sitting

area, flowers

1 11 1

Public Meeting No. 2 Lorne Park Master Plan Comment Sheet Results March 31st, 2004

Page 2 of 3

RANKING PLAN LIKES DISLIKES RECOMMENDED CHANGES 1st 2nd 3rd # 3 - closing Ballantyne (allowing traffic to

pass through detracts from the beauty and peacefulness of the gardens)

- central focal point - fountain or gazebo - bus parking out of the way - bike path - elimination for "through fare" walk

approach from corner to gazebo - trail along dike/alpine water feature - bikeway trail - roadway is good, parking a must - Gilkson Street entrance - should reduce

speeding in park - Vehicle parking - Larger park area - Fully addresses traffic concerns and

accessibility - Joins park together - reduces visible

separation - Keeps traffic out of the park and

maximizes the commemorative rose garden - which along with the other flower beds are the main attractions

- Most agreeable - Use of a rock/water garden - Increased walkways and pedestrian

lighting - Traffic diverted behind Gilkinson St - Grotto concept - Use of back wall of park - Bike path away from centre road - More formal - Better appearance from Colborne

- a few too many paved surfaces - reduce number leading to gazebo

- rose gardens compacted along Colborne - closing the road - entrance not easily accessible by vehicle - takes away from the people's park - tourists coming from west would pass

entrance before seeing the beauty of the park

- interferes with the private property owners surrounding this area

- creation of bus parking spaces on Colborne St. would obstruct the view of the park

- a bit complicated - wall is too informal? - Bus parking - Nothing done on opposite side of Colborne - Two-way traffic in park - No river vista

- consider moving rose garden to Fordview Park where they can be the main focus and perhaps a "memorial wall" built into the hillside along Colborne Street. The gardens would be below noisy street level

- unless garage on corner is purchased, #3 should not be a consideration

- need to consider purchase of old service station property prior to further planning. Other options may be revealed if this is considered FIRST

- Lorne Park has its own uniqueness - this concept takes it all away

- Potential grading of area to the north for land bridge to River - still requires acquisition of corner property - Gilkinson & Colborne

- Acquire car lot at corner - Put bus parking on Colborne - One-way traffic from

Sherwood to Gilkinson - Make both sides of Colbrone

equally attractive as a gateway to downtown

13 1

Public Meeting No. 2 Lorne Park Master Plan Comment Sheet Results March 31st, 2004

Page 3 of 3

Other comments:

- the service station, unfortunately, will take away from the park until it can be purchased and levelled - Concept 3 - fountain should be a part of wedding/portrait setting - Cut stone rose arbour - main walking entrances to park - The southern spine of the Gordon Glaves Trail runs through Lorne Park - it is essential that a good connection remains - At the Lorne Bridge underpass there is a dangerous 90 degree curve - it would be best if this curve could be corrected to allow good line of

sight for riders in both directions - Concern about the loss of carpet beds in some of the designs - they are an important part of the community and also important to tourism - Add Nunavut flag to display and maybe a small plaque with the Marquis coat/crest and rededication - The walkways throughout the park will enhance its use by seniors and disabled citizens - don't do away with too many of these! - How about extending plan to include a bike land along Ballantyne like the bike lane on the road to Blair from Cambridge - To best improve the park, the corner service garage needs to be purchased to expand the park and remove the eye sore - Pleased that all plans have a designated bike path - Don’t want Ballantyne Drive closed to traffic - not everyone is mobile enough to walk through the park - a lot of elderly people like to drive

through or sit in their cars and enjoy lunch. It is very fragrant on summer evenings. The road allows many people to enjoy the park. - Plan 3 is not ideal for the existing private property owners (ie. car parking, bus parking and entrance traffic). Entrance is passed by the time

you reach the park (from West). Rock Garden with ledge rock poses and insurance factor to possible injuries - Existing plan (Plan 1) does not really interfere with existing property owners and is a start to improvements - Your park takes me home every day - keep up the wonderful work and don't fix what isn't broken! - The existing roadway should be left as is only adding speed bumps. A park is supposed to be enjoyed by all people whether by car, bike or

foot. I travel through this park 7 days per week and the it is my stress reliever. I am not the idiot driver but the person admiring the beauty of this park and enjoying this relaxing drive at the end of my day and sometimes stop to enjoy your flowers. By leaving this entrance and putting in parking this leaves it accessible to each and everyone to enjoy and leaves finances to purchase the corner property somewhere down the road. I am not the person asking to buy this property.

- Alterations to bike path would be great - My preference would be for a rock garden (with water) plus fountains, lighting similar to downtown would certainly be an added feature - I am very proud of the way Brantford Parks & Rec have maintained Lorne Park. I make sure my company from out of town stop to admire it.

With a larger gazebo, rock garden with trickling water, rose garden, no roadway, it will be outstanding. - VON would be pleased to meet with Parks and Rec to determine an appropriate way to keep the VON rose gardens, perhaps with a redesign

of the memorial itself. - Would like it to be a "safe" park - access and visibility from Colborne would be beneficial - On all plans use Plan 3's no Colborne access into park! Speeding cars are ruining the park. TOTAL # OF COMPLETED COMMENT SHEETS RECEIVED: 16 (plus 3 e-mail responses)* *some respondents did not provide a ranking of the park concepts

Public Meeting Notes Lorne Park Master Plan – Appendix II March 31, 2004

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LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN Notes of Public Meeting No. 2 Wednesday, March 31, 2004, at 7-9 p.m. A. INTRODUCTION On Wednesday March 31, 2004 the second public meeting of the Public Consultation Program for the Lorne Park Mater Plan was held at Ryerson Public School. Approximately 30 persons attended the meeting to review the concept plan alternatives being considered for the Master Plan and to provide input and direction on the refinement of a preferred plan. Additional opportunities to provide input were made possible through the distribution of comment sheets at the public meeting. B. MEETING SUMMARY The following summarizes the findings of the public input received from the second phase of the consultation program. 1. Discussion of Plan and Alternatives A brief presentation of the Plan Objectives was presented to the public together with synopsis of the key findings of the first public meeting. Three concept Plan Alternatives were presented to illustrate different ways to address the many issues identified The proposed Vision Statement for Lorne Park was reviewed with the public and a general agreement was received:

“Lorne Park shall continue as Brantford’s Premier horticultural showcase for the enjoyment of residents and visitors to the City’s historic downtown”


Page 2 of 4

2. Park Access

• Concern was expressed with regard to the Ballantyne Road access • Many of those in attendance felt that the Ballantyne Road access should be closed • Concerns were raised that Ballantyne is used by the Fire Department for access to the Industrial area to the east • It was indicated that a new fire hall is being developed in the east and will take care of this issue • Suggestions were received in favour of reversing the direction of the one-way traffic on Ballantyne though the park so that

traffic exits onto Colborne • The suggestion of bus parking on Colborne was well received by many, others had concerns that the buses would block

the view of the park from the road – the Park is being billed by the plan as a gateway into the historic downtown • If all vehicular access to the park is removed it hinders police patrol and maintenance

3. Land Acquisition

• A number of people expressed very strong opinions with regard to the adjacent commercial property on the northwest corner of Colborne and Gilkison.

• Several people expressed that no money should be spent on Lorne Park until that property has been acquired, the purchase of the property would enable the area to be cleaned up and open up tremendous opportunities for access and park design.

• A representative from the City advised that the City did in fact make attempts to purchase the property but the asking price was not attainable.

4. Development Costs

• A number of questions were raised with respect to the cost of the plans. • Preliminary opinions of cost based on order of magnitude were identified at approximately $330,000 for Sketch 1;

$660,000 for Sketch 2 and $900,000 for Sketch 3. • A breakdown of the major costs for Alternatives 2 and 3 include road work, pathways, arbour, trellis and plaza element.


Page 3 of 4

5. Memorials and Monuments

• A number of opinions were received with respect to the treatment of the various memorials and monuments within Lorne Park.

• There was agreement that the Brant’s Ford monument should be the terminus of a walkway, re-design of the staircase area (plaza) should tie into this.

• The VON was very supportive in considering alternative locations and forms for the memorial but would like a rose garden to remain in some form in the park.

6. Trails and Pathways

• There was general agreement for the location of a cycling trail along the toe of the slope of the flood control dyke. • Many agreed that if the use of the trail connection through the underpass was increased the safety (or its perception)

would also be increased. • The accessibility to the park and its many features are very important.

7. Landscaping

• Comments were received on the poor condition of some of the mature trees in the park. • There was excellent support for the idea of establishing a “Canadian Walk” to continue and expand on the bi-centennial

heritage of the park and to compliment the provincial flag display. • The public was very supportive of a stone/water feature in the west portion of the park. • You can’t get rid of the carpet beds; people will miss the carpet beds if Alternative 3 is chosen. “Lorne Park is all about

carpet beds”. • It was suggested that the addition of a gazebo as a central focus to the park (instead of a fountain) together with the

addition of a rock/water wall at the west end of the park would enable both interests to be added to the park.


Page 4 of 4

8. Park Aesthetics/ Furnishings

• Comments indicate that the park should maintain a consistent style of furniture in keeping with the historic theme of the park.

• It was suggested that the refuse containers used in Victoria Park would be a good fit in Lorne Park. • The style of bench in Victoria Park was also suggested as an option for Lorne Park- something in keeping with the historic

character of the site. 9. Conesus on Design Direction

• There was a positive response to all 3 plan alternatives. • It seemed that a majority indicated a preference for Sketch 2 with the road alignment from Sketch 3 and the potential for

reversing traffic.

APPENDIX III

Lorne Park Master Plan – Phase II “Ultimate Plan”


Monteith Brown Planning Consultants In association with Rodger Todhunter Associates Inc. Appendix III

PHASE II - ULTIMATE PLAN

n response to the overwhelming input by the public requesting that the City purchase additional lands adjacent to the park, in particular the commercial automotive use on the northwest corner

of Gilkison Street and Colborne Street, the City has requested that an “Ultimate Vision” for Lorne Park be identified as a second, and independent phase of the Master Plan. The purpose of Phase II is to enable the City to move forward with a synchronized plan for the future direction of Lorne Park that isn’t reliant on additional land acquisitions but that is capable of seamlessly integrating designs should such acquisitions be possible within the timeframe of the plan. Phase II has been developed to successfully address the overall park needs, opening the park up for visibility, providing additional parking to alleviate congestion and traffic flow issues, to provide a pedestrian focal point along a central axis, to further beautify the neighbourhood and increase the enjoyment of this wonderful City resource. Key components of Phase II include: Access The purchase of the adjacent residential property, west of the Phase I entrance to enable the realignment of the access to a proper “T” intersection. Parking The Gilkison Street parking area is expanded to accommodate 30 vehicles with at least 2 accessible spaces. The parking area adjacent the gazebo can then be re-oriented to parallel parking to alleviate

impact on traffic flow. Pathways will link the parking area with the pathway network of the park to ensure accessibility. Main Entry Plaza The southeast corner of the park will be developed as the main pedestrian entrance. Adorned with an arched trellis feature mirroring the trellis features along the Colborne Street frontage and anchored by a new park sign this area is paved in interlocking pavers to provide the focal point of entry to the park. This area serves as the primary pedestrian entrance to the park. Pedestrian Mall Leading from the plaza space is a pedestrian mall which l then leads to a Victorian fountain feature. The fountain is surrounded by seasonal flower plantings. From the fountain visitors can walk to the oval green, parking lot or rose garden area. Decorative Fountain A decorative fountain will be installed as an intermediate focal point linking the access points to the formal park areas. Flower beds radiate outward in a circular fashion to replicate the fountain space.

I



LORNE PARK MASTER PLAN – PHASE II – ULTIMATE PLAN



Phase II – Cost for Long Term Plan


H – M – L

H M L Land Purchase ! - Purchase Lot Adjacent #28 Gilkison (west) Land appraisal 115 ! - Purchase commercial block on corner of Gilkison and Colborne Land appraisal * 150* ! - Demolition / Site Remediation 100 Transportation ! - Parking Lot / Road Improvements 32 spaces 70 ! - T-intersection construction 80 Pathways ! - Sidewalks and promenade 40 ! - Pedestrian lighting 10 pieces 30 Plaza spaces ! - Entry plaza Interlocking paving 25 ! - Mall Concrete paving 10 ! - Fountain space Including fountain and paving 25 Vegetation ! - Grading, sodding, ground covers 20 ! - Perennials / shrub beds 10 ! - Tree planting 40 trees 20 Park Features / Furnishings ! - Site Furnishings (lighting, benches, trash receptacles) Allowance 30 ! - Trellis 30 Sub-Totals 535 220 15% Contingency 80 33 Total 868 *Not including costs associated with environmental issues