Environmental Study Report - Oshawa · Environmental Study Report Britannia Avenue West Extension - Schedule 'C' Municipal Class Environmental Assessment . Prepared For: Tribute Communities

Environmental Study Report

Britannia Avenue West Extension - Schedule

'C' Municipal Class Environmental

Assessment

Prepared For: Tribute Communities and the

Town of Whitby

December 2014 10.10621-004.EA2

Standard Limitations

This report was prepared by MMM Group Limited (MMM) for Tribute Communities and

the Town of Whitby in accordance with the agreement between MMM and Tribute

Communities and the Town of Whitby. This report is based on information provided to

MMM which has not been independently verified.

The disclosure of any information contained in this report is the sole responsibility of

Tribute Communities and the Town of Whitby. The material in this report and all

information relating to this activity reflect MMM’s judgment in light of the information

available to us at the time of preparation of this report. Any use which a third party

makes of this report, or any reliance on or decisions to be made based on it, are the

responsibility of such third parties. MMM accepts no responsibility for damages, if any,

suffered by a third party as a result of decisions made or actions based on this report.

MMM warrants that it performed services hereunder with that degree of care, skill, and

diligence normally provided in the performance of such services in respect of projects of

similar nature at the time and place those services were rendered. MMM disclaims all

other warranties, representations, or conditions, either express or implied, including,

without limitation, warranties, representations, or conditions of merchantability or

profitability, or fitness for a particular purpose.

This Standard Limitations statement is considered part of this report.

Master Plan and Environmental Study Report | Britannia Avenue West Extension Schedule C Municipal Class Environmental Assessment MMM Group Limited | December 2014 | 1010621-004

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Executive Summary

Background

Tribute Communities and the Town of Whitby have prepared this Master Plan and

Environmental Study Report (E.S.R.) in accordance with Schedule ‘C’ of the Municipal

Class Environmental Assessment (E.A.) process. The purpose of this study is to

determine the location and characteristics of a proposed westerly extension of Britannia

Avenue West from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive west to Thickson Road

North, as well as an assessment of the environmental impacts associated with the

project.

The proposed extension will be a ‘Type C’ arterial road under the jurisdiction of the City

of Oshawa and Town of Whitby. The proposed arterial road will support planned urban

growth in north Whitby and Oshawa and the orderly distribution of traffic.

As shown in Figure ES1, Phases 1 and 2 of the Municipal Class E.A. process

(addressed under the Master Plan section of this study) have been completed from east

of proposed Windfields Farm Drive west to Thickson Road North. The section of

Britannia Avenue West from Simcoe Street North to a point approximately 800 m to the

west is currently under construction (shown as “Exempt from EA” on Figure ES1) and

was approved by the City of Oshawa as part of the Windfields Farms Plan of

Subdivision. Phases 3 and 4 of the Municipal Class E.A. process (the subject of the

Environmental Study Report (E.S.R.) section of this study) have only been completed

from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive westerly to Thornton Road North.

Tribute Communities is the proponent for this Master Plan and was requested by the

City of Oshawa to undertake this E.A. as a condition of approval for Phase 1A of the

Windfields Farms subdivision. While not a proponent, the City of Oshawa has been a

key stakeholder and has been involved in all reviews throughout the duration of this

study. The Town of Whitby is the co-proponent only for the section of the Britannia

Avenue West corridor within the Town of Whitby. The Town’s involvement as a co-

proponent is due to concern about the location of a future extension of Britannia Avenue

West through the Town as well as the fact that the Town’s Transportation Master Plan

had previously identified a preferred corridor for Britannia Avenue West. Tribute

Communities is the sole proponent for Phases 3 and 4 of the study.


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Figure ES1 – Study Area

Problem and Opportunity Statement

The land use designations and policies of the Region of Durham, City of Oshawa and

Town of Whitby Official Plans direct significant urban growth to north Whitby and

Oshawa. This growth, coupled with the Highway 407 East extension currently under

construction, will place additional strain on the existing transportation network,

particularly the existing east-west routes of Winchester Road (Regional Road 3) and

Conlin Road.


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To accommodate this growth, the Durham Region, Town of Whitby and City of Oshawa

Official Plans and the Town of Whitby Transportation Master Plan have identified the

need to extend Britannia Avenue West westerly from Simcoe Street North. This

proposed arterial road would support the orderly distribution of traffic across the broader

transportation network. Locally, the Britannia Avenue West extension will support

adjacent residential, institutional and industrial uses and function as an activity corridor,

with an enhanced streetscape and active transportation facilities to reflect the objectives

of Oshawa’s on-going Integrated Transportation Master Plan and the Whitby Cycling

and Leisure Trails Plan. The extension will also consider the future opportunity for

further expansion into Whitby to support the Town’s long-term growth plans, including

the land uses and policies resulting from the Brooklin Secondary Plan and

Transportation Master Plan Studies.

Together, these elements identify the need and opportunity to support planned growth

and policy objectives through the development of a Britannia Avenue West alignment

that balances the needs of all stakeholders. The preferred alignment must consider

potential impacts to natural and social environmental features, such as the West Branch

Oshawa Creek valley, the E.P. Taylor Woodlot, University of Ontario Institute of

Technology (U.O.I.T) / Durham College campus, the Bickle subdivision, the Provincially

Significant Wetland north of the Bickle subdivision, the core Windfields Farm area

(including Northern Dancer’s gravesite), and future land use and transportation needs

into the Town of Whitby.

Alternative Solutions

A number of high-level alternative solutions to address the problem and opportunity

were developed. These alternative solutions included:

Do Nothing;

Construct a New Roadway;

Transportation Demand Management (T.D.M.) Techniques;

Widening of Existing Roadways; and

Higher Order Transit.


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As appropriate to satisfy Phase 2 of the Class E.A. process, a screening assessment

was undertaken to evaluate the alternative solutions. The construction of a new

roadway was determined to be the preferred alternative, as it best supports future

growth and land uses in north Whitby and Oshawa, improves east-west connectivity,

supports the orderly distribution of traffic in the local area, and allows for a future

westerly extension of Britannia Avenue West in accordance with local and regional

plans.

Identification of Corridors

While this study only recommends a preferred road alignment to Thornton Road North,

it was first necessary to determine the alignment of a broader Britannia Avenue West

corridor to Thickson Road North. Defining the broader corridor alignment ensures that

the long-range corridor is protected for by locating the intersections with Thornton Road

North and Thickson Road North at suitable points. This intersection location will be used

to direct future studies which seek to establish a preferred road alignment over to

Thickson Road North and potentially beyond.

Two potential corridors for the future Britannia Avenue West extension were identified

(Figure ES2). Recognizing that the Bickle subdivision presents the major constraint in

the centre of the Study Area, it was determined that a North Corridor (north of the Bickle

subdivision) and a South Corridor (south of the Bickle subdivision) provided the two best

corridor alternatives to be taken forward for evaluation.

In establishing the two alternative corridors, specific features were identified. To the

north, the corridor was located to avoid the presence of a Provincially Significant

Wetland (P.S.W.) and provide a suitable distance from the existing hydro corridor and

Highway 407 East extension that is currently under construction. To the south, the

corridor was located to provide sufficient intersection spacing from Conlin Road West.

For both corridors, the Core Farm Area within the Windfields site has been avoided,

recognizing its heritage value.


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Preferred Alternative Solution – South Corridor

The two corridors were evaluated against a set of defined evaluation criteria covering

the Natural Environment, Socio-Economic Environment and Technical & Financial

categories. The preferred alternative solution was determined to be the South Corridor.

Overall, the South Corridor is likely to have less adverse impacts on the natural

environment and less likely to constrain future development opportunities. Both of these

factors influenced the selection of the South Corridor as the preferred corridor for the

future Britannia Avenue West extension. The analysis and evaluation of the alternatives

were presented to the public at the first Public Information Centre, and the

recommendation was endorsed by the public and the relevant stakeholders.

Alternative Design Concepts

Five alternative alignments (or Options) were developed for evaluation as presented in

Figure ES3. These alternatives all provided a range of technically feasible alternative

alignments for the Britannia Avenue West extension.

Preferred Alternative Design Concept

Overall, Option 5 was considered to be the preferred alternative design concept. From a

natural environment perspective, it has the least potential impacts because it avoids

both the older growth forest and wetland features, which represent the primary natural

resources in the Study Area. From a socio-economic perspective, Option 5 is the

preferred alternative because it avoids direct future impacts to properties fronting onto

Thornton Road North. This is perhaps the single main advantage of Option 5 over all

other alternatives. Although Option 5 represents the most expensive alternative, it is

one of the most technically feasible alternatives.


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Figure ES2 – Alternative Corridors


vii

Figure ES3 – Alternative Alignments


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Potential Environmental Effects and Mitigation Measures

Measures were identified to mitigate potential adverse environmental effects related to

the preferred alternative. The key potential effects and associated mitigation measures

are found in Section 7 and summarized in Table 10 of this report.

Public Consultation

The E.A. study involved the following public and agency consultation:

Notice of Study Commencement – the Notice was mailed to local residents,

relevant agencies and municipal contacts, and was published in the Oshawa

Express and the Whitby and Oshawa editions of This Week to introduce the

study.

Notice of Public Information Centre (P.I.C.) 1 and P.I.C. 1 – the Notice was

mailed to local residents, relevant agencies and municipal contacts and

published in the Oshawa Express on March 19, 2014 and the Whitby and

Oshawa editions of This Week on March 27, 2014. P.I.C. 1 was held on April 3,

2014 at the Columbus Community Centre in Oshawa and presented existing and

future conditions, the Problem and Opportunity statement, and the identification

and evaluation of alternative corridors, including the recommendation of a

preliminary preferred corridor. Feedback was sought on the preliminary preferred

corridor and also the evaluation criteria taken forward to Phases 3 and 4 of the

E.A. This was provided verbally, via written comment forms, or by using the

interactive survey on the study website.

Notice of Public Information Centre (P.I.C.) 2 and P.I.C. 2 – the Notice was

mailed to local residents, relevant agencies and municipal contacts and was first

published on June 12, 2014 in the Whitby and Oshawa editions of This Week

and subsequently published in the Oshawa Express on June 18, 2014. P.I.C. 2

was held on June 25, 2014 at the Columbus Community Centre in Oshawa and

reviewed the work and recommendations from Phases 1 and 2, and presented

the preliminary preferred alignment. Feedback was sought on the preliminary

preferred alignment and also the evaluation process followed to determine this.

This was provided verbally, via written comment forms, or by using the interactive

survey on the study website.

Study Website - in addition to including information on the study itself,

documentation, and contact details, the website included interactive surveys

designed to increase community engagement


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Stakeholder Committee Meetings – a Stakeholder Committee comprised of

Tribute Communities, the Town of Whitby, the City of Oshawa, Durham Region,

Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA) and U.O.I.T. / Durham

College was established. Stakeholder committee meetings were held at regular

intervals throughout the study and presented preliminary results and sought

direct feedback.

Site Walk - a site walk was held with representatives from MMM’s Project Team,

CLOCA, and the City of Oshawa. The purpose of the site walk was to focus on

the Study Area for Phases 3 and 4 to the east of Thornton Road North, in order

to identify specific environmental features and constraints. As a result of the site

walk, MMM was given specific guidance from CLOCA concerning the relative

importance of key features and requirements for further studies. This information

was directly used to inform the evaluation of alternative design concepts.

Notice of Study Completion – to mark the completion of the study and begin

the mandatory 30-day review period; this was mailed to local residents, relevant

agencies and municipal contacts and was published on December 18, 2014 in

the Whitby and Oshawa editions of This Week, and subsequently, the December

24, 2014 editions of Oshawa Express and Whitby This Week.

Next Steps

Future commitments resulting from the work undertaken as part of this study include the

following:

Detailed design of the preferred alternative, including the bridge over the Oshawa

Creek West Branch.

A Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment will be completed in advance of detailed

design. Butternut Health Assessment to be performed prior to any construction. Monitoring required by any exemptions for Butternut under the ESA will be

undertaken in accordance with O. Reg. 242/08.

A detailed tree inventory will be undertaken during detailed design.

Monitoring of survival of planted trees and re-planting will occur as necessary.

Development of a sediment and erosion control strategy, landscape planting

plan, edge management plan, etc. to mitigate potential effects on the Natural

Environment.

Confirm the availability of alternate Barn Swallow nesting habitat in the meadows

and cropland surrounding the preferred alignment. Provide nesting habitat in

accordance with ESA requirements if necessary.


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Monitoring of the annual use of nesting structures and changes in edge conditions will occur as necessary.

During detailed design, if any wells are discovered to be used domestically, any

affected well owners will continue to have water supplies of appropriate quality

and in adequate quantities during construction. Any work done on affected wells

or any replacement wells will be done pursuant to O. Reg. 903, Wells (pursuant

to the Ontario Water Resources Act).

Meandering of the Oshawa Creek West Branch will be monitored to determine if

channel stabilization is required at the road crossing location.

Pre- and Post-construction wetland plots will be established in P.S.W. units to

judge if there are any hydrological changes due to the road.

A detailed geomorphological assessment of the West Branch of the Oshawa

Creek will be completed during the detailed design of the bridge structure to

confirm the location of piers and to identify any impacts of the bridge on the

watercourse.

A detailed analysis of the bridge hydraulics will be completed during the detailed

design of the structure to determine the impact of the final configuration of the

bridge.

The minor crossing located west of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek to

maintain flow connectivity south will be at least 800 mm in diameter. The size of

the culvert will be evaluated during detailed design to consider the impact of its

final configuration and any stormwater management measures.

Permit and approvals will be confirmed during the detailed design stage and may

include the following:

Specific consultation is required with the M.O.E.C.C’s Environmental Assessment and Approvals Branch prior to detailed design to confirm any

Environmental Compliance Approval requirements for the proposed works.

The M.O.E.C.C.’s Central Region Permit to Take Water Coordinator will be consulted prior to detailed design to confirm any approval requirements for water

takings during construction or operation. This includes groundwater or surface

water extraction and the active diversion of surface water flows by pumping in

excess of 50,000 LFP.

Specific consultation with the M.N.R.F. is required to determine the permissible

in-water construction timing window and to develop site specific mitigation related

to American Eel including the potential requirement for permitting once the

proposed alignment and crossing structures are finalized.


xi

An assessment of Butternuts for identification of hybrids and a Butternut Health

Assessment should be undertaken as soon as feasible to allow for time to obtain

a permit under the ESA if necessary as this process can take up to a year to

complete.

A permit from CLOCA under O. Reg. 42/06 will be required prior to construction.


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Glossary of Terms

CLOCA Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority

E.A. Environmental Assessment

ESA Endangered Species Act

E.S.R. Environmental Study Report

I.E.A. Individual Environmental Assessment

M.E.S.P. Master Environmental Servicing Plan

M.N.R.F. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry

M.O.E.C.C. Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change

M.T.C.S. Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport

S.A.R. Species at Risk

P.I.C. Public Information Centre

P.P.S. Provincial Policy Statement

P.S.W. Provincially Significant Wetland

T.D.M. Transportation Demand Management

T.M.P. Transportation Master Plan

T.O.R. Terms of Reference

U.O.I.T. University of Ontario Institute of Technology


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Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Overview and Study Approach...........................................................1

1.2 Report Structure ..................................................................................3

2 PLANNING PROCESS ............................................................................................ 4

2.1 Ontario’s Environmental Assessment Act ........................................4

2.2

2.3

3

3.1

3.2

3.3

4

4.1

5

5.1

5.2

5.3

5.4

6

6.1

6.2

6.3

6.4

7

7.1

7.2

The Municipal Class Environmental Assessment............................5

Part II Orders ........................................................................................6

EXISTING AND FUTURE CONDITIONS ................................................................. 7

Existing Conditions .............................................................................7

Future Conditions ..............................................................................41

Transportation Needs Analysis........................................................45

PROBLEM AND OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT ................................................... 47

Problem and Opportunity Statement ...............................................47

IDENTIFICATION AND EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS ............ 48

Alternative Solutions .........................................................................48

Identification of Corridors.................................................................51

Evaluation of Alternative Solutions .................................................54

Preferred Alternative Solution – South Corridor ............................59

ALTERNATIVE DESIGN CONCEPTS ................................................................... 61

Review of Study Approach ...............................................................61

Alternative Design Concepts............................................................61

Evaluation of Alternative Design Concepts ....................................64

Preferred Design Concept – Option 5..............................................72

POTENTIAL EFFECTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES FOR THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE ............................................................................................................. 74

Natural Environment..........................................................................74

Socio-Economic Environment..........................................................86

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8

8.1

8.2

8.3

8.4

8.5

8.6

8.7

8.8

8.9

8.10

8.11

9

9.1

9.2

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT................................................. 104

Notice of Study Commencement .................................................. 104

Stakeholder Committee Meeting #1 .............................................. 104

Corridors Workshop ....................................................................... 105


Study Website ................................................................................. 105

Public Information Centre 1........................................................... 105


Site Walk .......................................................................................... 106


Public Information Centre 2 ........................................................ 107

Notice of Study Completion........................................................ 108

NEXT STEPS ....................................................................................................... 109

Future commitments ...................................................................... 109

Permit and Approval Requirements.............................................. 110

10 BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................. 111


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List of Figures

Figure 1 - Study Area.........................................................................................2 Figure 2 - Municipal Class E.A. Phases ............................................................5 Figure 3 - Natural Environment Features ..........................................................8 Figure 4 - ELC Mapping...................................................................................12 Figure 5 - Wildlife Features..............................................................................25 Figure 6 - Durham Region Official Plan (2013) – Road Network ....................30 Figure 7 - Durham Region Official Plan (2013) – Land Use Designations......31 Figure 8 - Town of Whitby Official Plan (2010) - Land Use Designations .......33 Figure 9 - Town of Whitby Official Plan (2010) - Secondary Plans .................34 Figure 10 - City of Oshawa Official Plan (2011) - Land Use Designations .....36 Figure 11 - City of Oshawa Official Plan (2011) - Transportation Network .....37 Figure 12 - Existing Socio-Economic Conditions.............................................39 Figure 13 - Results of the Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment .....................41 Figure 14 - Future Land Uses..........................................................................43 Figure 15 - Town of Whitby Transportation Master Plan – Recommended Classification of Protected Corridors ...............................................................46 Figure 16 - Alternative Corridors......................................................................53 Figure 17 - Preferred Alternative Solution .......................................................60 Figure 18 – Alternative Alignments..................................................................62 Figure 19 - Preferred Alignment ......................................................................73


xvi

List of Tables

Table 1 - West Branch of Oshawa Creek Fish Community.............................24 Table 2 - Alternative Solutions.........................................................................49 Table 3 – Alternative Solutions Evaluation Criteria .........................................55 Table 4 - Natural Environment Evaluation.......................................................56 Table 5 - Socio-Economic Environment Evaluation ........................................58 Table 6 - Technical and Financial Evaluation..................................................59 Table 7 – Alternative Design Concepts Evaluation Criteria.............................65 Table 8 - Evaluation of Alternative Design Concepts ......................................66 Table 9 - Design Criteria..................................................................................91 Table 10 - Potential Effects and Mitigation ......................................................94


xvii

Appendices

Appendix A – Existing Natural Environment Conditions

Appendix B – Existing Conditions Report for Built Heritage Resources and Cultural

Heritage Landscapes

Appendix C – Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment

Appendix D – Public and Agency Consultation Record

Appendix E – Preliminary Design Drawings

Appendix F – Cost Estimate

Appendix G – Traffic Study Report

Appendix H – Surface Water Excerpts from the M.E.S.P.


xviii

1 Introduction

1.1 Overview and Study Approach

Tribute Communities and the Town of Whitby have prepared this Master Plan and

Environmental Study Report (E.S.R.) in accordance with Schedule ‘C’ of the Municipal

Class Environmental Assessment (E.A.) process. The purpose of this study is to

determine the location and characteristics of a proposed westerly extension of Britannia

Avenue West from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive west to Thickson Road

North, as well as an assessment of the environmental impacts associated with the

project.

Britannia Avenue West is currently an existing road located east of Simcoe Street North

in the City of Oshawa. The proposed Britannia Avenue West extension will be a ‘Type

C’ arterial road under the jurisdiction of the City of Oshawa and Town of Whitby. The

Highway 407 East extension, currently under construction, will significantly alter traffic

volumes and patterns within the study area. Accordingly, the proposed arterial road will

support planned urban growth in north Whitby and Oshawa and the orderly distribution

of traffic.

As demonstrated below in Figure 1, Phases 1 and 2 of the Municipal Class E.A.

process (addressed under the Master Plan section of this study) have been completed

from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive west to Thickson Road North. The section

of Britannia Avenue West from Simcoe Street North to a point approximately 800 m to

the west is currently under construction (shown as “Exempt from EA” on Figure 1) and

was approved by the City of Oshawa as part of the Windfields Farms Plan of

Subdivision. Phases 3 and 4 of the Municipal Class E.A. process (the subject of the

Environmental Study Report (E.S.R.) section of this study) have only been completed

from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive westerly to Thornton Road North.

Tribute Communities is the proponent for this Master Plan and was requested by the

City of Oshawa to undertake this E.A. as a condition of approval for Phase 1A of the

Windfields Farms subdivision. While not a proponent, the City of Oshawa has been a

key stakeholder and has been involved in all reviews throughout the duration of this

study. The Town of Whitby is the co-proponent only for the section of the Britannia

Avenue West corridor within the Town of Whitby. The Town’s involvement as a co-

proponent is due to concern about the location of a future extension of Britannia Avenue

West through the Town as well as the fact that the Town’s Transportation Master Plan

had previously identified a preferred corridor for Britannia Avenue West. Tribute

Communities is the sole proponent for Phases 3 and 4 of the study.

Master Plan and Environmental Study Report | Britannia Avenue West Extension Schedule C Class Environmental Assessment MMM Group Limited | December 2014 | 1010621-004

1

Figure 1 - Study Area

1.1.1 RATIONALE FOR THE MASTER PLAN AND E.S.R. APPROACH

The rationale for the common easterly termination point, described as “east of proposed

Windfields Farm Drive”, is that a short section of Britannia Avenue West is currently

under construction between Simcoe Street North and a point approximately 800m to the

west (this section is shown as “Exempt from EA” on Figure 1). The proposed extension

of Britannia Avenue West subject to this E.A. will continue in a westerly direction from

this point onward.


2

Phases 1 and 2 of the Class E.A. process were completed to establish a broad corridor

in which the entire Britannia Avenue West extension may be constructed to Thickson

Road North. Phases 3 and 4, which provide further analysis to determine a specific road

alignment, were not completed to the west of Thornton Road North as there are no

immediate plans to construct this section of the Britannia Avenue West extension. The

E.A. analysis and recommendations are only valid for 10 years, after which time its

assumptions would need to be revisited through an E.A. Addendum. Further work to

establish the specific road alignment between Thornton Road North and Thickson Road

North will subsequently be undertaken when the Town of Whitby identifies a shorter-

term implementation requirement.

The completion of Phases 1 and 2 for the entire length to Thickson Road North was

required to provide a high level of confidence that the future extension of Britannia

Avenue West could be located in this broad corridor, while also confirming suitable

areas in which the future intersections of Britannia Avenue West at Thornton Road

North and Thickson Road North can be located.

1.2 Report Structure

This Master Plan and Environmental Study Report (E.S.R.) is structured as follows:

Master Plan (Phases 1 and 2):

Section 1 – Introduction

Section 2 – Planning Process

Section 3 – Existing and Future Conditions

Section 4 – Problem and Opportunity Statement

Section 5 – Identification and Evaluation of Alternative Solutions

Environmental Study Report (E.S.R.) (Phases 3 and 4):

Section 6 – Alternative Design Concepts

Section 7 – Potential Effects, Mitigation Measures and Monitoring

Section 8 – Public and Stakeholder Engagement

Section 9 – Next Steps

Section 10 – Bibliography


3

2 Planning Process

2.1 Ontario’s Environmental Assessment Act

Ontario’s Environmental Assessment (E.A.) Act establishes a process for reviewing the

potential environmental effects of a proposed project prior to its implementation. It exists

to provide for the protection, conservation, and wise management of Ontario’s

environment. To achieve this, the proponent must conduct an E.A. for any undertaking

that has the potential for adverse environmental effects, including roads, transit,

wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure projects.

Two main E.A. planning and approvals processes are established through the E.A. Act:

1) Class E.A.: this process allows specialized categories to be created for similar or

comparable projects, which have predictable and manageable environmental

effects. After a parent Class E.A. process has been prepared and approved by

the Minister of the Environment for a specific category of project, eligible projects

which follow that parent process are pre-approved. Provided that the proponent

follows the appropriate parent Class E.A. approval process for the undertaking,

they will be deemed to have met the requirements of the E.A. Act. The Municipal

Class E.A. is one of the approved parent Class E.A. documents.

2) Individual E.A. (Part II of the E.A. Act): this process applies to projects for which

a project-specific Terms of Reference (T.O.R.) and a subsequent Individual

Environmental Assessment (I.E.A.) are carried out and submitted to the Minister

of the Environment for review and approval.

This study follows the Municipal Class E.A. planning process, requiring the integration

of sound engineering judgement, prudent long-term planning, and measures to

conserve all aspects of the natural, social, economic and cultural environment. The

process also requires consultation with the public, stakeholders and government review

agencies in order to obtain input, ensure regulatory compliance, and ultimately achieve

acceptance for the preferred alternative.


4

2.2 The Municipal Class Environmental Assessment

Municipal infrastructure projects such as this project are included in the Municipal Class

Environmental Assessment parent document, prepared by the Municipal Engineers

Association (2000, as amended in 2007 & 2011). The Municipal Class E.A. parent

process provides a standardized method for considering municipal infrastructure

projects that are: recurring; similar in nature; generally limited in scale; exhibit a

predictable range of environmental effects; and responsive to mitigation measures.

2.2.1 MUNICIPAL CLASS E.A. STUDY PHASES

The Municipal Class E.A. includes up to five phases of assessment as outlined in

Figure 2. The extent to which each phase must be followed is directed by the Schedule

of Class E.A., as outlined in the following section.

Figure 2 - Municipal Class E.A. Phases

2.2.2 MUNICIPAL CLASS E.A. PROJECT SCHEDULES

Based on their characteristics, the Municipal Class E.A. parent document categorizes

eligible projects into one of the following Schedules: A, A+, B, or C. The applicable

Schedule dictates the depth of the assessment that must be achieved through the

planning and design phases of the study.

The following briefly outlines the different steps and level of effort required for each of

the Schedules. This study will satisfy the requirements of Schedule ‘C’.


5

Schedule ‘C’ activities generally include the construction of new facilities and major

expansion to existing facilities, which may have the potential for significant

environmental effects. Projects falling within this Schedule require the proponent to

complete Phases 1 through 4 of the Municipal Class E.A. process. Specifically, the

proponent must:

Undertake more detailed study, public consultation and documentation. This

includes contacting affected members of the public on at least three occasions

during the study and consulting with relevant regulatory agencies;

Prepare an Environmental Study (E.S.R.) Report documenting: the process that was

followed; comments received; responses provided; and, commitments made to

address potential effects; and

When completed, the E.S.R. is made available for agency and public review for 30

calendar days. If no Part II Orders, or “bump-up requests”, are received, the project may

proceed to Phase 5, Implementation.

2.3 Part II Orders

Part II of the E.A. Act grants agency and public stakeholders the right to appeal the

completion of a Class E.A. if they believe that a preferred alternative has been selected

without sufficient study. The reasons for requesting an appeal, known as a Part II Order

request, must be submitted in writing to the Minister of the Environment. Upon receipt,

the Minister, or their delegate, will review the request and respond in one of the

following ways:

1) Accept the request, elevating the Class E.A. to an Individual E.A. and requiring

the proponent to undertake a much more rigorous project review;

2) Deny the request outright, or deny the request with conditions. These conditions

may include a requirement for the proponent to conduct more consultation with

specific parties, review effects or develop new mitigation measures; or,

3) Refer the request to mediation for resolution.

If the Minister does not receive a Part II Order, the Class E.A. is considered complete

and approved, and the proponent may proceed with implementing the project.

For Schedule ‘C’ projects, a person or party with a concern should bring it to the

attention of the proponent at any point during Phase 2 through Phase 4 of the planning

process. No Part II Orders have been received prior to filing this E.S.R.


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3 Existing and Future Conditions

3.1 Existing Conditions

3.1.1 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

On April 9, 2014 natural features mapping from the Central Lake Ontario Conservation

Authority (CLOCA) was received, which included GIS layers for Ecological Land

Classification (ELC) mapping, Provincially Significant Wetlands (P.S.W.s), other

Wetlands, drainage features, Environmentally Significant Areas associated with the

natural heritage system. Figure 3 illustrates natural environment features found

throughout the Study Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thickson

Road North, based on existing data obtained in 2009 by MMM ecologists and the

natural features mapping obtained from CLOCA. The entire valleyland was ranked as a

high sensitivity Environmentally Significant Area. Additionally, non-evaluated wetlands

and P.S.W.s were indicated throughout the Study Area, including a large P.S.W. directly

north of the Bickle subdivision. Drainage corridors were shown for the West Branch of

Oshawa Creek and a tributary to the P.S.W. unit on the west side of the valleyland.

Within the Town of Whitby, natural environment features including terrestrial vegetation

and non-evaluated wetlands were generally found to be located in the northern half of

the Study Area. This information was used in the evaluation of alternative solutions

(Phase 2 of the Municipal Class E.A. process).

On May 2, 2014 a site walk through was completed with CLOCA staff to determine if

additional field investigations would be required to supplement existing data obtained in

2009 by MMM ecologists. CLOCA staff indicated that the 2009 data would be

acceptable information only for the area in which the data was obtained (the West

Branch Oshawa Creek crossing corridor studied in 2009) and could not be extrapolated

to other areas of the valleyland. As such, additional field investigations were undertaken

along the proposed Britannia Avenue West alignment from east of proposed Windfields

Farm Drive to Thornton Road North. This detailed information was used in the

evaluation of alternative design concepts (Phase 3 of the Municipal Class E.A. process)

and is summarized in further detail below. A full description of existing natural

environment conditions can be found in Appendix A.


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Figure 3 - Natural Environment Features


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3.1.1.1 Terrestrial Vegetation

Terrestrial environment features found within the Study Area from east of proposed

Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North include: meadows, woodlands, swamp,

forest, marsh, and agricultural fields. Farmland and associated Old Field Cultural

Meadows occur on the tableland either side of a valley. The valleyland of the West

Branch of Oshawa Creek and the associated vegetation communities are the main

natural features found within the Study Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm

Drive to Thornton Road North. The farmlands to the east are still being maintained and

some fields are used for crops (corn and soy bean) while others have been left to

naturalize. Farmlands to the west of the valley were once part of the larger Windfields

Farm stables, are now largely owned by U.O.I.T. (University of Ontario Institute of

Technology) and have been left to grow fallow or are used for crop farming (corn and

soy bean). These agricultural lands also contain farm buildings (in various states of

maintenance/use).

3.1.1.1.1 Flora

In total, 195 vascular plant species were recorded during field investigations. A list of all

species recorded is provided in Appendix A. Summary statistics for these species are

provided below:

Of the 217 taxa identified on the property, 195 were identified to species level. Of

those 74 (38%) are known to be non-native species, many of which are typical of

old field, cultural woodlands, marsh, agricultural, landscaped and disturbed

areas. These species are generally widespread and abundant in the cultural

habitats of the property and present in much of the natural habitats of the

property.

121 known native species were recorded. All of these are ‘secure, common and widespread’ in Ontario (ranked S5, S4, or S4S5) except one species, Butternut

(Juglans cinerea) which is ranked as S3 ‘rare to uncommon’ in Ontario.

1 species was listed as uncommon or rare in Peterborough - Durham – Victoria –

Northumberland (per Varga et al. 2000). This is Three seeded sedge (Carex

trisperma).

11 species were listed as uncommon or rare in Durham Region (per Varga et al.

2000). These are:

o Giant Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum giganteum)

o Common St. John’s Wort (Hypericum punctatum)

o Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolia)

o Bristly Crowfoot (Ranunculus pensylvanicus)

o Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)


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o Fly Honeysuckle (Lonicera canadensis)

o Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis)

o Pearly Everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea)

o Variegated Horsetail (Equisetum variegatum ssp variegatum)

o Turtlehead (Chelone glabra)1

o Virginia Stickseed (Hackelia virginiana)1

o Great Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica)1

o Woolly Sedge (Carex pellita)1 o Canada Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum canadense)1

o Red Pine (Pinus resinosa)1

1 species rare in the Greater Toronto Region: o Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)1

1 provincially rare species was recorded in the study corridor (as per Oldham and

Brinker, 2009):

o Butternut (Juglans cinerea) 1 plant Species at Risk (S.A.R.) was recorded:

o (Butternut [Juglans cinerea]).

3.1.1.1.2 Species at Risk

Twenty-five candidate Butternut (Juglans cinerea) were found over the course of field

investigations. The majority of these are young trees or saplings, although several are

mature trees. These specimens all present characteristics of Butternut. However,

Butternut commonly hybridizes, and the identification of these specimens as hybrid or

as pure butternut has yet to be determined. The Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA)

only applies to pure Butternut.

1 Found in 2009


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The identity of pure or hybrid butternut can be found in two ways: through DNA testing

or through a scoring procedure based on morphological characteristics. The second

method should be performed by a Butternut Health Assessor in leaf-on conditions (the

most accurate results are obtained in June). Following or simultaneous with the

determination of hybridity, a Butternut Health Assessment (BHA) should be performed

by a certified Butternut Health Assessor. Exemptions under the ESA for Butternut

(detailed in O.Reg. 242/08) are possible. If less than 10 Category 2 (Retainable)

Butternut are within 25m of construction impacts (e.g. alignment, grading, clearing, fill

placement, etc.) then a Notice of Butternut Impact may be sought. This process is

relatively streamlined. However, if more than 10 Category 2 Butternut will be killed,

taken, or impacted, then a permit under the ESA must be sought. This is a lengthy

process. It is therefore recommended that a BHA be completed by a certified Butternut

Health Assessor before the start of detailed design.

3.1.1.1.3 Ecological Land Classification (ELC)

The Study Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North

consists of two major vegetation habitats: A forested valleyland with wetland pockets;

and Agricultural/Cultural lands either side of the valleyland in various stages of

naturalization. Additionally, two small units of the Whitby-Oshawa Iroquois Beach

Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW) complex swamp units are present. In total 18

ELC vegetation types were identified (Figure 4). All vegetation communities observed

are considered common in Ontario (per the NHIC Ontario Plant Community List) (MNR

NHIC, 2013). A description of each vegetation community surveyed is provided below.


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Figure 4 - ELC Mapping


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Cultural

Dry-Moist Old Field Meadow Type (CUM1-1)

This vegetation type occurs in nine units on the site. Units surveyed in 2014 are

numbered 1 through 8 to correspond with Figure 4.

2009 surveyed area – This unit represents a naturalized vegetation cover which is

dominated by both grass and tall herb cover typical of upland old field. Goldenrods

(Solidago spp.) were dominant in this unit.

Area 1 - The unit representing the meadow surrounding an intermittent swale draining

agricultural fields towards the PSW swamp unit (Figure 3) contains sparse young trees

of Manitoba Maple (Acer negundo), Red Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), Scotch Pine

(Pinus sylvestris), Black Walnut (Juglans nigra), Eastern White Cedar (Thuja

occidentalis), and Apple (Malus sp.). A few shrubs of Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica)

and cultivated Honeysuckles (Lonicera x bella) are also present. Tall grasses and herbs

dominate this unit with Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis) being dominant with abundant

Kentucky Blue Grass (Poa pratensis) and Goldenrods (Solidago sp.), and Stinging

Nettle (Urtica dioica) and Reed Canary Grass (Phalaris arundinacea) also present

throughout. Ground layer species included weedy herbaceous species such as smaller

Stinging Nettle, Cow Vetch (Vicia cracca), Wild Carrot (Daucus carota) and Dandelion

(Taraxacum officinale). An inclusion into this unit occurs where a sudden drop in grade

(and possible tile drain input) allows for intermittent flow. In this inclusion Stinging Nettle

and Spotted Touch-me-not (Impatiens capensis) are abundant with occasional Burdock

(Arctium minus) and Celandine (Chelidonium majus).

Area 2 – This unit may once have been an area of pasture but has long since

naturalized with typical Old Field species. Very few trees or shrubs occur in this unit and

are of similar species of the adjacent woodland; Eastern White Cedar, Red Ash,

Manitoba Maple, and Buckthorn. The herbaceous plants are a mix of forb and graminod

species. Goldenrods were most abundant, with occasional Lance-leaved Aster

(Symphyotrichum lanceolatum), Reed Canary Grass, and Smooth Brome. The ground

layer was abundant with Yellow Bedstraw (Galium verum).

Area 3 – This unit is an area of farm waste dumping (i.e. hay and other compostable

debris) upon which a cultural meadow community has developed. The abundant

species are Stinging Nettle, Goldenrods, and Smooth Brome. Additional species found

here are Buttercup (Rancunculus acris), Dame’s Rocket (Hesperis matronalis), Ground

Ivy (Glechoma hederacea), Celandine, Cow Vetch and Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia).

A single Black Walnut exists in this unit. This unit is surrounded by Cultural Woodland

(9).


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Area 4 – A sprawling unit of Old field Meadow exists in the ditches and field edges on

the east side of the valley. Several species of trees exist sparsely throughout these

edges including Norway Maple (Acer platanoides), Scotch Pine, Little Leaf Linden (Tilia

cordata), Manitoba Maple and Butternut (Juglans cinerea). A few cultivated

honeysuckles can also be found in this unit. By and large this meadow is a mix of

graminoid and forb species. Goldenrods, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Smooth Brome are

abundant. Other common Old Field species are also present including Wild Carrot,

Sweet White Clover (Melilotus alba), Philadelphia Fleabane (Erigeron philadelphicum),

Yellow Bedstraw, Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), and Black Medic (Medicago

lupulina).

Area 5 – This small unit is dominated by Smooth Brome. Only a few other species were

found in this unit, and at much lower abundance. These are: Kentucky Bluegrass,

Timothy (Phleum pratense) and Bedstraw (Galium sp.).

Area 6 – This unit comprises five recently abandoned agricultural fields (based on aerial

photography) with similar vegetation communities. All of these areas had no trees or

shrubs and were abundant in Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), Canada

Thistle (Cirsium arvense), Red Clover (Trifolium pratense), Ox-eye Daisy

(Leucanthemum vulgare), Philadelphia Fleabane, Common Plantain (Plantago major),

Cow Vetch, Bedstraw, and Black Medic.

Area 7 - This unit is found on the west side of the valleyland. Similar to Old Field

meadows on the east side of the valley, this meadow is a mix of graminoid and forb old

field species. The unit is abundant in Smooth Brome, Marsh Bedstraw (Galium

palustris), and Goldenrods. Dog-strangling vine (Vincetoxicum rossicum), Kentucky

Bluegrass, and Canada Thistle were also common components. Sparse amounts of

Timothy and Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) were also present. Two candidate

Butternuts were found in this unit.

Area 8 – This unit was partially surveyed during the 2009 field investigations. In 2014,

field work confirmed the identification of this unit as Old Field Cultural Meadow (CUM1-

1) and extended the known limit of the unit to the south. No tall trees were present in

this unit. Sparse low trees of Red Ash and Apple, seedlings of Black Walnut and Scotch

Pine as well as sparse shrubs of Tartarian honeysuckle, Buckthorn, and chokecherry

(Prunus virginiana) were also present. The unit consisted largely of Old Field forb

species. Goldenrods were abundant, and Smooth Brome, Bedstraw, Cow Vetch, and

Common Milkweed were also common species. This unit bordered active agricultural

crop field (currently Corn) and a cedar forest unit.


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Mineral Cultural Woodland Ecosite (CUW1)

Eight units of this vegetation type occur on the property. Three of these units exist as a

part of the farm and residential lands on the west side of the valleylands. Five units exist

east of the valleylands as a part of the old Windfields Farm as hedgerows, and plantings

on the property. Units have been numbered 1 through 5 to correspond with Figure 4.

Area 1 – This unit includes the residential property and outbuildings on Thornton Road.

This woodland consists of tall trees of various species including Jack Pine (Pinus

banksiana), Scotch Pine, Black Walnut, Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum), Manitoba

Maple, Freeman’s Maple (Acer x freemanii), Butternut, Freemans Maple, Norway

Maple, and Red Ash. The predominant species is Red Ash and Sugar Maple. Candidate

Butternut (hybridity to be confirmed) line the driveway and are likely to have parented

the several other smaller butternut in the vicinity of the residence.

Area 2 – This unit surrounds Old Field Meadow Area 3. This unit is distinctly different

from the adjacent natural forest, and is abundant in exotic and weedy species. Tall

mature trees of Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum), Red Ash, and Manitoba Maple

predominate with additional American Elm and Norway Maple present. Few shrubs exist

in this unit and include a small Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumilia) and cultivated Honeysuckle

(Lonicera x bella). Low shrubs include Buckthorn, Red Raspberry (Rubus ideaus), Wild

Cucumber (Echinocystis lobata), Bedstraw, and Riverbank grape. The ground layer

contains abundant Celandine, Herb Robert and Enchanter’s Nightshade (Circaea

lutetiana), as well as sparse cover by Violets (Viola spp.).

Area 3 – This unit is an old hedgerow feature on the east side of the valleyland. Several

large (>100 cm DBH) dead tree stems occur in this woodland. Norway Maple was the

dominant tree species in the hedgerow with sparse Basswood (Tilia americana)

American Elm and a few Sugar Maple. The ground layer was abundant with Celandine,

Riverbank Grape, Burdock, Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca), and Spotted touch-me-not.

Area 4, Area 6, and Areas of CUW1/CUM1-1 – These units all show similar

composition of species. The tree species in these units are dominated by Norway Maple

with presence of Eastern White Cedar, Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens), Little

Leaf Linden. Area 6 has a dense shrub layer of Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius). In

general, all of these areas have ground layer species of Old Field species including

Sweet White Clover, Birdsfoot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), Chamomile (Anthemis

arvensis), Smooth Brome, Bedstraws, Black Medic, Ox-Eye daisy, Ragweed (Ambrosia

artemisiifolia), and Wild Carrot.


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Area 5 – This unit is a Buckthorn hedge bordering the deciduous forest unit at the edge

of the west side of the valleyland. Some of these Buckthorn are very large. Buckthorn

dominates every layer of this unit. Tress that were also present, though in far less

abundance is Red Ash, Sugar Maple, Black Cherry (Prunus serotina), and Basswood.

Seedlings of these species were also present in the lower layers. In the shrub layer,

Alternate-leaved Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia), Eastern White Cedar, and Riverbank

grape were also present. The ground layer contained seedlings of the aforementioned

tree and shrub species as well as Dandelion.

Rural Residential Property (CVR_4)

This unit is the area of an occupied rural residence and its outbuildings and the

associated manicured lawn and landscaping. Of note in this unit is the presence of three

mature candidate Butternut trees.

Greenlands/Park (CGL)

This unit is the manicured lawn and landscaping associated with the Horse Cemetery

east of the valleylands at the old Windfields Farm.

Agriculture (AG)

Several fields on site were being actively grown with crops. At present these crops are

all Corn (Zea mays) and Soybean (Glycine max), although this could be expected to

vary by year with crop rotations. Many hedgerows visible on the aerial photography are

no longer present. The fields have been aggregated into larger fields. However, a few

remaining trees are still present amongst the rows of corn east of the valleyland.


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Forest

The entirety of the valleyland was forested. Dryer forests occurred at the height of

slopes whilst moist lowland forests predominated in the valley bottom.

Dry-Fresh Sugar Maple Deciduous Forest (FOD5-1)

Two units of this vegetation type occur. The first unit borders on the M.N.R.F. mapped

Old Growth forest. Several large trees (>50cm) were noted to be present in this unit.

The tree community is abundant with Sugar Maple was well as occasional Black Cherry,

Basswood, Red Ash, Ironwood (Ostrya virginiana), and Beech (Fagus grandifolia). The

understorey was sparser containing mostly Buckthorn but also Alternate-leaved

Dogwood, Sugar Maple, Eastern White Cedar, and riverbank grape. The ground layer

was also sparse, containing mostly seedlings of Buckthorn, Sugar Maple, Red Ash, but

also some herbaceous species such as Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum), Yellow

Trout Lily (Erythronium americanum), and Dandelion.

The second unit, has a predominantly closed canopy cover of mature Sugar Maple up

to 60cm DBH and 20m tall. Other canopy species include American Beech, American

Basswood, Black Cherry, Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and Yellow Birch

(Betula alleghaniensis). The understorey has good regeneration of Sugar Maple with

Alternate-leaved Dogwood and some Buckthorn. There is sparse ground cover of

upland herbs including Enchanter’s Nightshade, Zig-zag Goldenrod (Solidago

flexicaulis), and trillium (Trillium sp.).

Fresh-Moist White Cedar Coniferous Forest (FOC4-1)

Three units of this vegetation type are within the Study Area from east of proposed

Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North. The first two exist on either side of the

West Branch of Oshawa Creek. A dense canopy cover of Eastern White Cedar

dominates the unit. The understorey includes regenerating cedar, Manitoba Maple, and

ash. The ground layer includes a diverse suite of upland and wetland plants. Common

species include: Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris), Bulblet Fern (Cystopteris

bulbifera), Spotted Touch-me-not, and White Snakeroot (Eupatorium rugosum).


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The other unit is found on the slope of the west side of the valley. Eastern White Cedar

is the dominant tree creating a dense canopy. The understorey by comparison is

relatively sparse containing small specimens of Eastern White Cedar, Sugar Maple, and

some sparse Buckthorn, Basswood, and Red Ash. The ground layer is also sparse

containing Sugar Maple, Red Ash, and Buckthorn saplings, as well as Jack in the Pulpit.

On the lower slopes Ostrich Fern and Bulblet Fern were more common. Some evidence

of farm waste dumping (i.e. hay bales) was found in this unit at the edge adjacent to Old

Field Meadow.

Dry-Fresh White Cedar Coniferous Forest Type (FOC2-2)

This unit exists at the western edge of the western valleylands. It has a closed canopy

composed entirely of young Eastern White Cedar. No sub-canopy/understory or ground

cover are present beneath this dense cedar canopy.

Fresh-Moist Lowland Deciduous Forest Ecosite (FOD7)

This unit roughly follows the valley bottom adjacent to the West Branch of Oshawa

Creek. The tree community in this unit is dominated by Manitoba Maple, but also

contains Eastern White Cedar, Red Ash, and to a lesser degree Sugar Maple, tree

sized Willows (Salix sp.) and sparse Norway Maple. The understorey is composed of

smaller trees of the same species and additional shrubs of Alternate-leaved dogwood,

Red-berried Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa ssp. pubens) and Tartarian Honeysuckle.

Tall herbaceous plants dominated the ground layer with Goldenrods being dominant

and Wood Nettle (Laportea canadensis) and Ostrich Fern being common. Dog-

strangling Vine and Fringed Loosestrife (Lysimachia ciliatum) were also present. The

low herbaceous layer contained Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Enchanter’s Nightshade, Bulblet

Fern, Dwarf Raspberry (Rubus pubescens) and sparse Field Horsetail.

Fresh-Moist White Cedar Coniferous Forest (FOC4)

This Cedar dominated unit was found in two bands on the east side of the valley. Large

Cedar trees predominated, however a component of deciduous Red Ash, Sugar Maple,

Basswood, and American Elm was also present. The shrub layer was sparse with only a

few Buckthorn, Red-Berried Elderberry, Chokecherry, and Guelder Rose (Viburnum

opulus ssp. opulus). The ground layer was dominated by tall Wood Nettle and Ostrich

Fern. In more open areas Bulblet fern and Jack in the Pulpit were common with sparse

Herb Robert, Enchanter’s Nightshade and Violets.


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Fresh – Moist White Cedar Hardwood Mixed Forest (FOM7-2)

This mixed forest unit also was found in two bands on the east side of the valley,

alternating with FOC4. It contained similar amounts of Eastern White Cedar and Red

Ash in the canopy with lesser amounts of Sugar Maple, Basswood, Ironwood, Black

Cherry, Black Walnut, and American Elm, with significant amounts of Riverbank Grape.

The sub-canopy contained abundant Eastern White Cedar with lesser amounts of Red

Ash, and smaller specimens of the other tree species. The ground layer was dominated

by tall Wood Nettle and Ostrich Fern with lesser amounts of small Red Osier Dogwood

(Cornus sericea), Tall Meadow-Rue (Thalictrum pubescens) and Lady Fern (Athyrium

felix-femina). The low herbaeous layer contained abundant Bulblet Fern with lesser

amounts of Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Field Horsetail, Red Baneberry (Actaea rubra) and

Spinulose Woodfern (Dryopteris carthusiana).

Fresh-Moist White Cedar – Sugar Maple Mixed Forest (FOM7-1)

This mixed forest unit exists in a gully on the west slope of the valleyland. Adjacent to

Cedar Forests and Cultural Meadow, this unit displayed a unique vegetation community.

The canopy was abundant with Sugar Maple and Eastern White Cedar, but also

contained occasional Red Ash. There were infrequent American Elm and Ironwood,

including one large Ironwood tree >45 cm DBH. Ironwood does not usually exceed

25cm DBH (Farrar et al. 2005). The understorey contained smaller specimens of the

same species. There were few shrubs or ground layer plants. These included small

Buckthorns, Prickly Gooseberry (Ribes cynosbati), Red Osier Dogwood, Guelder Rose,

Zig-zag Goldenrod, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, and Dog-strangling Vine.

Wetland

Wetlands within the Study Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive to

Thornton Road North were largely surveyed as a part of 2009 field investigations. These

locations and ELC communities were verified in 2014. A portion of the Whitby-Oshawa

Provincially Significant Wetland Complex extends west and north of the greater

valleyland corridor. This PSW unit was surveyed as a part of 2014 field work due to its

sensitivity. Additionally, an unevaluated wetland found on mapping provided by CLOCA

exists (SWC1-1). Small pockets of wetland were found adjacent to agricultural lands on

both the west and east sides of the valleyland. The following wetland communities were

identified on site:


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White Cedar Mineral Coniferous Swamp (SWC1-1)

This unit is within an area of wetland identified by the MNR but not evaluated in the

2005 Whitby-Oshawa Iroquois Beach wetland complex evaluation (Unevaluated

wetland). Much of its composition is similar to the adjacent FOC4-1 unit. However, the

canopy is sparser, with many dead snags. The ground layer includes many wetland

plants including: Ostrich Fern, Bulblet Fern, Spotted Touch-me-not, Rice Cutgrass

(Leersia oryzoides), and Fowl Manna Grass (Glyceria striata). Standing water to a depth

of approximately 30 cm was noted in the central portion of this unit.

Manitoba Maple Mineral Deciduous Swamp (SWD3-4)

Two units of this vegetation type are found within the Study Area from east of proposed

Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North. The first is found in the valleyland

adjacent to the West Branch of Oshawa Creek. Manitoba Maple, Red Ash, Basswood,

and Willow make up the canopy in this unit. The understorey includes regenerating

Manitoba Maple, and ash. The dense vegetation at the ground layer is dominated by

Rough Horsetail (Equisetum hyemale ssp affine).

The other unit exists at the west side of the valley and is part of the P.S.W. (Figure 3). It

is a shallow gully through which an intermittent stream flows. It is thought that this

stream is groundwater and tile drain fed as both a tile drain outlet was found at the north

end of the feature and watercress was found near the downstream mouth of the stream.

The canopy in this unit is dominated by Manitoba Maple with a few sparse specimens of

Black Cherry and Basswood existing only at the top of the gully. A small amount of

Buckthorn was present in the sub canopy. Buckthorn, Ostrich Fern, Wood Nettle, and

Dame’s Rocket were all present as tall herbs. The ground layer was abundant with

Spotted touch-me-not and commonly contained Celandine, Herb Robert, and Zig-zag

goldenrod.

Cattail Mineral Shallow Marsh Type (MAS2-1)

Two small units of this vegetation type are found within the Study Area from east of

proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North. The first exists in the

valleyland, adjacent to the West Branch of Oshawa Creek. This unit was abundant with

Broad-leaved Cattail (Typha latifolia), and Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnamoma) but

also contained Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), Joe-Pye Weed (Eupatorium

maculatum) and Spotted Touch-me-not. The second unit, adjacent to a mosaic of

cultural meadow and marsh, was characteristically dominated by Broad-leaved Cattail

(Typha latifolia). A few sparse low trees of Manitoba Maple, Freeman’s Maple, and

American Elm were also present.


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Reed-canary Grass Mineral Meadow Marsh (MAM2-2)

This small unit exists as an inclusion in an Old-Field Meadow adjacent to farmlands on

the West side of the valley. No trees or large shrubs are found in this area. This unit is

abundant with Reed-canary grass, Goldenrods, and Stinging Nettle. Broad-leaved

Cattail was also observed in this unit.

Green Ash Mineral Deciduous Swamp (SWD2-2)

This unit exists on the east side of the valley and is a part of the P.S.W. complex. A

deep layer of organics (30 cm) was present, though relatively dry at the time of field

investigations. The canopy of this swamp was dominated by Green Ash with occasional

Black Ash (Fraxinus nigra) and infrequent of Manitoba Maple and American Elm. The

understorey and shrub layer contained regeneration of canopy species as well as

sparse Basswood and Buckthorn. The ground layer was dominated by Field Horsetail

and Spotted touch-me-not with an abundance of Fringed Loosestrife. Additional species

included Yellow Avens (Geum aleppicum), White Avens (Geum canadense), Marsh

Marigold (Caltha palustris), Cinnamon Fern, and Dwarf Raspberry.

Jewelweed Mineral Meadow Marsh Type (MAM2-9)

This small inclusion exists next to the eastern edge of the valleylands, adjacent to

CUM1-1 Area 7. The unit is dominated by Spotted-touch-me-not to the exclusion of

almost any other species, save a couple of Manitoba Maples. This marsh receives

surface runoff due to the nature of the topography of the adjacent meadow. This

depression in topography directs water into the woodland/wetland complex in the

valleyland.

3.1.1.2 Aquatic Natural Environment

Within the Study Area, two watercourses: West Branch of Oshawa Creek and a

Tributary of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek were identified that have the potential to

be impacted by the proposed road alignment. Field investigations were undertaken on

June 02, 2014 (Tributary of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek) and July 29, 2014

(West Branch of Oshawa Creek). A brief description of the aquatic habitat within the

Study Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North is

presented below.


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3.1.1.2.1 Aquatic Habitat

Tributary of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek

The Tributary of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek originates as an outlet from a tile

drain. The assessed reach of the watercourse flows as intermittent diffuse flow through

dense vegetation at the base of a small valley between two agricultural fields. No

defined banks are present but an observable flow path, approximately 1.3m wide is

present through the vegetation. The substrate consists of sand (65%), silt (20%), cobble

(10%) and boulders (5%). A vertical drop of approximately 0.5m is present at the

downstream end of the assessed reach, which would likely prevent the upstream

movement of fish even if suitable water depths are present. The habitat within the

assessed reach is deemed to be indirect fish habitat as it functions to convey seasonal

flows downstream.

Beyond the assessed reach, the watercourse enters the forested valley system

associated with the West Branch of Oshawa Creek where flow is conveyed southeast

through a defined channel for approximately 200 m before discharging into the West

Branch of Oshawa Creek.

West Branch of Oshawa Creek

The West Branch of Oshawa Creek flows through a deep, well defined forested valley.

Aquatic habitat within the Study Area consists of a defined channel with a permanent

flow regime. Evidence of groundwater inputs consisting of iron precipitate and Water

Cress (Nasturtium officinale) were observed which likely contribute to maintaining the

watercourse’s coldwater thermal regime. The valley is well vegetated, dominated by

coniferous forest that transitions to meadow vegetation along the watercourse margins.

The vegetated riparian zone provides moderate shade (25% to 50%) to the

watercourse. The banks are composed primarily of sand (80%) intermixed with clay

(10%) and silt (10%), and appear slightly unstable as evident from isolated sections of

natural erosion and undercut banks. The channel has a mean wetted width of 5.3m and

depth up to 1m with a variety of habitat types, including runs (40%), flats (30%), pools

(20%) and riffles (10%). The overall substrate composition within the assessed reach

consists primarily of sand (40%), cobble (28) and gravel (18%) with minor amounts of

silt (10%), boulders (2%) and consolidated clay (2%). There is a variety of in-water

cover provided by abundant woody debris with lesser amounts of scattered undercut

banks, course rocky material and aquatic vegetation. No barriers to impact the

movement of fish within the assessed reach was observed.


22

A stormwater outfall was present on the west bank of the watercourse which was

armoured with gabion baskets that extended into the watercourse. No flow was

observed discharging from the outlet during field investigations.

3.1.1.2.2 Fish Community

Tributary of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek

Fish community investigations were not undertaken in the Tributary of the West Branch

of Oshawa Creek as this watercourse was dry during field investigations. In addition, the

section of Tributary to be potentially impacted by the proposed road alignment functions

as indirect fish habitat as determined through on-site discussions with CLOCA staff.

West Branch of Oshawa Creek

Fish community data obtained from previous MMM field investigations for the West

Branch of Oshawa Creek is present in Table 1 below. Fish community sampling

undertaken in 1999 and 2009 resulted in fairly consistent fish community assessments.

The West Branch of Oshawa Creek supports a variety of cold, cool and warmwater

baitfish species, along with coldwater top carnivores (i.e. Rainbow Trout). With the

exception of Brown Trout, Common Shiner (Luxilus cornutus), Longnose Dace

(Rhinichthys cataractae), Mimic Shiner (Notropis volucellus) and Slimy Sculpin (Cottus

cognatus), the species reported in 1999 were also represented in 2009. Although

Chinook Salmon was not captured during these sampling efforts, migration and

spawning activity was observed during 1999 fall field investigations.

Consultation with the M.N.R.F. regarding S.A.R., indicated that American Eel is present

in the West Branch of Oshawa Creek.

3.1.1.3 Wildlife

Breeding bird surveys were carried out on June 2 and July 21, 2014. Incidental

sightings of other wildlife such as herptiles, mammals and insects were also recorded.

The meadows, hedgerows, cropland, forests and marshes offer a variety of habitats for

wildlife, which resulted in the recording of numerous species. The survey data is

provided below and shown in Figure 5.


23

Table 1 - West Branch of Oshawa Creek Fish Community

Scientific Year Name

Common Name Sampled

Blacknose Dace Rhinichthys obtusus 1999 & 2009

Brown Trout Salmo trutta 1999

Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchyus tshawytscha

1999

Common Shiner Luxilus cornutus 1999

Creek Chub Semotilus atromaculatus

1999 & 2009

Fathead Minnow

Pimephales promelas 1999 & 2009

Johnny Darter Etheostoma nigrum 1999 & 2009

Longnose Dace Rhinichthys cataractae 1999

Mimic Shiner Notropis volucellus 1999

Mottled Sculpin Cottus bairdi 1999 & 2009

Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss 1999 & 2009

Slimy Sculpin Cottus cognatus 1999

White Sucker Catostomus commersonii

1999 & 2009


24

Figure 5 - Wildlife Features


25

3.1.1.3.1 Birds

Meadows, Hedgerows and Cropland

A number of bird species were observed in the meadows and hedgerows dominating

the Study Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North.

They include American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), American Goldfinch (Carduelis

tristis), American Robin (Turdus migratorius), Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica), Cliff

Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota), Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas),

Eastern Kingbird (Tyrannus tyrannus), Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis), Great-

crested Flycatcher (Myiarchus crinitus), House Wren (Troglodytes aedon), Indigo

Bunting (Passerina cyanea), Killdeer (Charadrius vociferous), Northern Cardinal

(Cardinalis cardinalis), Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) and Song Sparrow

(Melospiza melodia). The Cliff Swallows were seen foraging over fields near their active

nests, which were on two buildings east of the creek (Figure 5). A few Barn Swallows

were seen here as well, but most were at the west end flying between the fields and

three nests in the garage of the rural residence next to Thornton Road (Figure 5). A

family of Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) were observed within cropland near the

east end of the Study Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton

Road North. Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula), Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata), Chipping

Sparrow (Spizella passerina), Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), European Starling

(Sturnus vulgaris) and Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) are species tolerant of

human habitation that were also seen near buildings. A tree next to Thornton Road

contained a stick nest likely belonging to an American Crow (Figure 5).

Forest

The American Robin, Common Yellowthroat, Eastern Kingbird, Great-crested

Flycatcher and Gray Catbird seen in hedgerows were also seen at the edges of the

riparian forest. The interior portion of the riparian forest provided habitat for Eastern

Wood-pewee (Contopus virens) and Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus). A pair of Red-

tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) were observed foraging in fields and appeared to

have a nest near a large American Beech in the Sugar Maple forest (FOD5-1) (Figure

5). Owl pellets were found in the meadow near this forest; however no owls were

observed or heard. Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus), a forest cavity nester, was

observed foraging close to buildings east of the forest. The swamp at the east end of

the study corridor (SWD2-2) contained White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) and

a family of American Robins.


26

West Branch of Oshawa Creek Riparian Zone and Wetlands

Along the creek were species that frequent forest edges and marshes. They were

American Crow, American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus), Cedar

Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum), Common Grackle, Common Yellowthroat and Indigo

Bunting. An American Robin, Blue-headed Vireo (Vireo solitarius) and Red-winged

Blackbird were seen by a ditch at the western limit of the Study Area from east of

proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North. During the survey, a Great

Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) and Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) were seen flying

overhead; both may have been foraging at the creek. A Canada Goose (Branta

canadensis) flying overhead was possibly feeding on the surrounding cropland.

3.1.1.3.2 Herptiles

Due to the scarcity of standing and open water within Study Area from east of proposed

Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North, the only dedicated amphibian survey

carried out focussed on salamanders. This survey was conducted on June 2, 2014 and

no salamanders were found. No vernal pools were encountered during the general

wildlife surveys for this review and no anurans or reptiles were observed. During 2009

field investigations, American Toad (Anaxyrus americanus) and Northern Leopard Frog

(Lithobates pipiens) were observed in the valleylands and Eastern Gartersnakes

(Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) were seen in several locations.

3.1.1.3.3 Other Wildlife

An Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) was seen near buildings within Study

Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North and an

Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus) was found in one of the hedgerows. There were

Northern Raccoon (Procyon lotor) and White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) tracks

by the creek and at the marsh at the east end of the Study Area. A Meadow Vole

(Microtus pennsylvanicus) was seen in the meadow beyond the east edge of the

riparian forest. Two butterflies were seen in the meadows including Cabbage White

(Pieris rapae) and a species of sulphur (Colias sp.). One dragonfly, Twin-spotted

Spiketail (Cordulegaster maculata) was found along the creek and is dependent on

small, perennial, forest streams that have a steady current; relatively low stormwater

surges and stable banks; and good water quality (Munroe 2012). These conditions are

found in the West Branch of Oshawa Creek. All are species common to Ontario.


27

3.1.1.3.4 Species at Risk

Two Species at Risk (S.A.R.) were observed during the field investigations, Barn

Swallow, designated Threatened, and Eastern Wood-pewee, designated Special

Concern. Barn Swallows require meadows and marshes for feeding; open water with

mud for nest construction; and, in rural areas, built structures to provide a foundation for

their nests. These features are available in or at the edge of the Study Area from east of

proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North. Eastern Wood-pewees

require mature and intermediate-age deciduous and mixed forests that have an open

understorey. They usually inhabit clearings within these forests where there is space for

their aerial foraging activities. The valleyland of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek

offers this type of forest.

The S.A.R. reported as potentially present by MNR, Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark,

were not seen during the surveys. Both are grassland species that inhabit agricultural

landscapes but require large areas of meadow or hayfields. The cropland in and around

the Study Area from east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive to Thornton Road North

consisted of corn and soybean, which do not support these S.A.R. as the meadows are

too small to provide habitat. These S.A.R. are not considered to be present and will not

be assessed as impacted species.

3.1.2 LAND USE AND PLANNING CONTEXT

3.1.2.1 Provincial Policy Statement

The current Provincial Policy Statement (P.P.S.), 2014, provides guidelines for

development “while protecting resources of provincial interest, public health and safety,

and the quality of the natural and built environment.” The P.P.S. lays out the policies for

building strong communities and identifying current and projected infrastructure needs.

The P.P.S. also establishes the provincial interest and direction in transportation

systems and planning through the following policies:

“1.6.7.1 – Transportation systems should be provided which are safe, energy

efficient, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and are appropriate to

address projected needs.”

“1.6.7.3 – As part of a multimodal transportation system, connectivity within and

among transportation systems and modes should be maintained and, where

possible, improved including connections that cross jurisdictional boundaries.”


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“1.7.1(f) – Providing for an efficient, cost effective, reliable multi-modal

transportation system that is integrated with adjacent systems and those other

jurisdictions and is appropriate to address expected growth.”

3.1.2.2 Region of Durham Official Plan

The Durham Regional Official Plan (2013) speaks to improving transportation linkages

both within the Region and between the Region and adjacent areas. Figure 6 illustrates

the existing and future road network in the vicinity of the Study Area, as defined by the

Official Plan. As shown in Figure 6, Conlin Road, Simcoe Street and Winchester Road

are all designated as Type ‘B’ Arterial Roads, while Thickson Road is designated as a

Type ‘A’ Arterial Road. Figure 6 also identifies a conceptual alignment for the Britannia

Avenue West extension, which is identified as a Type ‘C’ Arterial Road. This conceptual

alignment is consistent with the alignment shown in the Durham Transportation Master

Plan (2005).

Figure 7 illustrates the land use designations within the vicinity of the Study Area, as

defined by the Official Plan. As shown in Figure 7, these designations include Living

Areas, Employment Areas and Major Open Space Areas. Simcoe Street has been

identified as a Regional Corridor, which are intended to support higher-density mixed-

use areas, higher order transit services and pedestrian oriented development. Similarly,

a Regional Centre, which is intended to function as a focal point of urban development

in the Region, has been identified at Simcoe Street North and Winchester Road. A

Regional Centre has also been identified at Baldwin Street North and Winchester Road

Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) #128 was initiated in order to bring the

Durham Regional Official Plan into conformity with the Provincial Growth Plan for the

Greater Golden Horseshoe and was approved by the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB)

on January 9, 2013. ROPA 128 expanded the Urban Area Boundary to add extensive

Living Area lands around the existing Brooklin and Columbus communities and

Employment Area lands generally along the future Highway 407.


29

Figure 6 - Durham Region Official Plan (2013) – Road Network


30

Figure 7 - Durham Region Official Plan (2013) – Land Use Designations


31

3.1.2.3 Town of Whitby Official Plan

As shown in Figure 8, the Town of Whitby Official Plan (2010) identifies lands within the

vicinity of the Study Area as a Future Urban Development Area – Brooklin East north of

Conlin Road. Section 9.3 of the Official Plan outlines policies related to Future Urban

Development Areas and notes that future land uses and related policies will be

determined through future studies / Secondary Plans. The Official Plan also identifies

lands within the vicinity of the Study Area as part of the Highway 407-Conlin Industrial

Area for which a Secondary Plan will be prepared, as shown in Figure 9.

Official Plan Amendment (OPA) 90 was adopted by Council on September 9, 2010

(presently under appeal) to conform to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden

Horseshoe and the Region of Durham Official Plan, as amended by Regional Official

Plan Amendment #128 in so far as it relates to the 2031 population and employment

targets, the percentage of new population and employment growth that is expected to

occur within the ‘Built Boundary’, and the location of the 2031 Urban Boundary for the

Town of Whitby. The Urban Boundary is expanded through OPA 90 to encompass the

lands north of Conlin Road as well as additional residential lands north and west of

Brooklin, identified as Future Urban Development Area 5, and additional Future Urban

Development Area 2 lands along the future Highway 407. OPA 90 states that Future

Urban Development Areas shall have a minimum density target of 50 jobs and persons

per hectare.

The Town of Whitby is currently undertaking an Official Plan review which, amongst

other things, proposes to amend the Official Plan to identify the lands at Conlin Road

and Anderson Street as Future Urban Development Area 5, consistent with the

redesignation of these lands from Employment Area to Living Area in the Regional

Official Plan.

Policy 2.1 (e) of the Official Plan states that a guiding principle of the Plan is to establish

and maintain linked transportation systems through the community for transit, vehicular

and pedestrian movement by road, rail and greenways. Similarly, Section 8.1.1 of the

Official Plan speak to transportation goals, which include providing a safe, convenient

and efficient transportation system for the benefit of all resident groups and businesses

in the Town of Whitby and providing a high level of road network capacity.


32

Figure 8 - Town of Whitby Official Plan (2010) - Land Use Designations


33

Figure 9 - Town of Whitby Official Plan (2010) - Secondary Plans2

2 Taken from proposed Schedule E as amended by OPA 90, which has been adopted by Town Council but

is not yet fully approved as it is currently under appeal.


34

3.1.2.4 City of Oshawa Official Plan

The land use designations denoted by the City of Oshawa Official Plan (2011) within the

vicinity of the Study Area are shown in Figure 10. These land use designations include

Residential, Institutional, Open Space and Recreation and Industrial. Figure 10 also

shows the Official Plan’s Planned Commercial Centre designation at the intersection of

Simcoe Street North and Winchester Road.

Figure 11 illustrates the transportation network in the vicinity of the Study Area, as

defined by the Official Plan. Conlin Road, Simcoe Street North and Thornton Road

North are all designated as Type ‘B’ Arterial Roads, which is consistent with Regional

designations. Figure 11 also depicts a conceptual alignment for the Britannia Avenue

West extension (referred to as XWindfield St as per Schedule ‘B’ – Transportation North

Half). The Official Plan designates the Britannia Avenue West extension as a Type ‘C’

Arterial Road.

Policy 3.1.1 of the Official Plan states that the intent of the Plan is to provide an

integrated transportation system that affords ease of travel within and through the City.

Section 8.6 of the Official Plan deals specifically with the Windfields Planning Area and

Policy 8.6.2.5 notes that “Britannia Avenue will be an important east/west transportation

and activity corridor serving the residential areas and acting as the interface between

the UOIT and the residential area of the north”.


35

Figure 10 - City of Oshawa Official Plan (2011) - Land Use Designations


36

Figure 11 - City of Oshawa Official Plan (2011) - Transportation Network


37

3.1.3 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

Figure 12 shows existing socio-economic conditions within the Study Area. In addition

to the Hydro Corridor and the Highway 407 East Expansion area, the main socio-

economic features consist of the Bickle subdivision, various other residential buildings

and cultural heritage features. Cultural heritage and archaeology are discussed in

further detail below.

3.1.3.1 Cultural Heritage

An Existing Conditions Report for Built Heritage Resources and Cultural Heritage

Landscapes was undertaken by Unterman McPhail Associates and is included in

Appendix B.

There are no provincially or federally recognized heritage resources within the Study

Area.

The property located at 2300 Simcoe Street North, Windfields Farm, is listed on the

Inventory of City of Oshawa Heritage Properties as a Class A heritage resource,

meaning that it has been evaluated by Heritage Oshawa to have the highest potential

for designation. The Arena, the gravesite of Northern Dancer, and the Trillium

Cemetery, which contains the graves of other horses, are all included in the description

of the site as significant heritage resources. The inherent cultural and historical value to

the local community of these heritage resources was a key consideration in determining

the preferred alignment of the proposed Britannia Avenue West extension. The broad

area containing buildings associated with Windfields Farm has been referred to in

subsequent sections as the “Core Farm Area”, a term agreed upon in consultation with

the Stakeholder Committee.

The Town of Whitby Heritage Register includes one property within the Study Area

located at 5515 Garrard Road. This is a c.1855 brick residence and agricultural farm

complex situated on the east side of the road.


38

Figure 12 - Existing Socio-Economic Conditions


39

3.1.3.2 Archaeology

A Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment was undertaken by Archeoworks, Inc. (2014) and

is included in Appendix C.

Stage 1 research indicated that the portion of the Study Area within the Town of Whitby

and the southern edge of the Study Area with the City of Oshawa along Conlin Road

had already been subjected to a Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment. The remainder of

the Study Area was subjected to a Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment for the purposes

of this study.

Most of the Study Area is rural in character, with minor disturbances including paved

roadways, roadside ditches, road embankments, and newer industrial, commercial and

residential developments (e.g. the Bickle subdivision). Potentially undisturbed areas

include agricultural fields, areas of heavy brush and weed growth, and manicured

lawns. As demonstrated in Figure 13, the Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment identified

the potential for the recovery of archaeologically significant materials within undisturbed

portions of the Study Area and recommended a Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment.

Accordingly, a full Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment will be completed during detailed

design to identify the presence of any archaeological resources. Based on preliminary

Stage 2 Archeological Assessment findings currently available for a portion of the

relevant lands, no archaeological resources have been uncovered.


40

Figure 13 - Results of the Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment

Source: Archeoworks, Inc. (2014)

3.2 Future Conditions

3.2.1 FUTURE LAND USES

Figure 14 illustrates future land uses within and immediately adjacent to the Study

Area. Lands south of the hydro corridor and west of Thornton Road North are being

planned for future industrial uses (see Section 3.1.2.3), while lands south of the hydro

corridor and east of Thornton Road North predominantly include future residential uses

and lands planned for U.O.I.T. / Durham College expansion through the Campus Master

Plan currently under development. Additionally, an approximately 2-million-square foot

retail complex at Simcoe Street North and Winchester Road West, shown as a Planned

Commercial Centre land use designation in the City of Oshawa Official Plan (see

Section 3.1.2.4) has been approved by Oshawa council.


41

The Town of Whitby is undertaking integrated and comprehensive studies for the

Brooklin area to determine land use planning and transportation needs for future growth

in and around the existing community of Brooklin. The study will result in a

comprehensive Secondary Plan and Transportation Master Plan for the Brooklin area.

The Secondary Plan will address the land use designations for the urban expansion

areas north and west of Brooklin, the industrial lands adjacent to the future Highway 407

and the lands in the vicinity of the Conlin Road/Anderson Street intersection, as well as

an update to the existing Brooklin Community Secondary Plan. The Transportation

Master Plan (TMP) for the Brooklin area will determine transportation infrastructure and

mobility requirements.


42

Figure 14 - Future Land Uses


43

3.2.2 FUTURE INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS

As shown on Figure 15 above, the Highway 407 East extension will significantly

influence transportation operations within the broader Study Area. Highway 407 is

currently under construction, with an anticipated completion date of December 2015.

Highway 407 will provide two lanes in each direction initially, with an ultimate

configuration of four lanes in each direction. Interchanges will be constructed at

Thickson Road North and Simcoe Street North; the Thornton Road North interchange

will be a ‘fly-over’ grade separation initially.

The Regional Municipality of Durham recently completed a Schedule ‘C’ Class E.A. for

the widening and reconstruction of Simcoe Street North (Regional Road 2) from Conlin

Road northerly to Winchester Road West (Regional Road 3). The Notice of Study

Completion was issued on April 17, 2014. The recommended design for Simcoe Street

North includes three through lanes in each direction plus auxiliary left and right turn

lanes within a 40 – 45m road allowance.

The City of Oshawa completed a Schedule ‘C’ Class E.A. for the widening and

reconstruction of Conlin Road West from the Whitby-Oshawa municipal boundary to

385m west of Simcoe Street North. The Notice of Study Completion was issued on

February 12, 2012. The recommended design for Conlin Road West was for two

through lanes in each direction between Thornton Road North and Founders Drive, just

west of Simcoe Street North. Conlin Road West will eventually have a three lane section

west of Thornton Road North.

The City is currently undertaking a Schedule ‘C’ Class E.A. for the section of Conlin

Road East from Simcoe Street North easterly to Townline Road. At the second Public

Information Centre held on June 24, 2014, it was recommended that Conlin Road be

widened to a four lane urban cross-section between Simcoe Street North and

Grandview Road with a multi-use path on one side of the road. The Class E.A. Study is

still underway and a final decision on the preferred solution has not been determined as

of September 2014.


44

3.3 Transportation Needs Analysis

A comprehensive transportation impact assessment was undertaken by MMM Group

Limited in support of the proposed redevelopment of the Windfields Farm site. A traffic

study report for the Dantonbury lands, dated February 2013, has been approved by the

City of Oshawa. This report recommended that Britannia Avenue West be constructed

with two through lanes in each direction with left turn lanes at key intersections between

Thornton Road North and Simcoe Street North. It was noted that this capacity was not

required for the 2016 planning horizon but it would be required for the 2021 horizon

year. A copy of the traffic study report can be found in Appendix G.

The Whitby Transportation Master Plan (T.M.P.) Study was completed in June 2010

and included a broad analysis of the Town’s transportation system in order to identify a

framework for future transportation requirements. Based on the analysis of the 2031

projected traffic conditions, capacity deficiencies and the evaluation of alternatives, one

of the recommendations of the Whitby T.M.P. Study was to construct a new mid-block

arterial road from south of the Highway 407 East Extension between the eastern Town

limits to Baldwin Street (i.e. the Britannia Avenue West extension). It was noted in the

T.M.P. Study that the anticipated timing for this new mid-block arterial road is between

2017 and 2021. Figure 15 illustrates the transportation network in the vicinity of the

Study Area as proposed by the T.M.P. Conlin Road West, Simcoe Street North and

Thornton Road North are all designated as Type ‘B’ Arterial Roads, which is consistent

with Regional designations. Figure 15 also depicts a conceptual alignment for the

Britannia Avenue West extension, which is designated as a Type ‘C’ Arterial Road.


45

Figure 15 - Town of Whitby Transportation Master Plan – Recommended Classification of Protected Corridors


46

4 Problem and Opportunity Statement

A Problem and Opportunity Statement has been developed to provide the overall need

and justification for the study and to satisfy Phase 1 of the Class E.A. process. This

statement has been used consistently throughout the study, and was developed in

consultation with the Stakeholder Committee.

4.1 Problem and Opportunity Statement

The land use designations and policies of the Region of Durham, City of Oshawa and

Town of Whitby Official Plans direct significant urban growth to north Whitby and

Oshawa. This growth, coupled with the Highway 407 East extension currently under

construction, will place additional strain on the existing transportation network,

particularly the existing east-west routes of Winchester Road (Regional Road 3) and

Conlin Road.

To accommodate this growth, the Durham Region, Town of Whitby and City of Oshawa

Official Plans and the Town of Whitby Transportation Master Plan have identified the

need to extend Britannia Avenue West westerly from Simcoe Street North. This

proposed arterial road would support the orderly distribution of traffic across the broader

transportation network. Locally, the Britannia Avenue West extension will support

adjacent residential, institutional and industrial uses and function as an activity corridor,

with an enhanced streetscape and active transportation facilities to reflect the objectives

of Oshawa’s on-going Integrated Transportation Master Plan and the Whitby Cycling

and Leisure Trails Plan. The extension will also consider the future opportunity for

further expansion into Whitby to support the Town’s long-term growth plans, including

the land uses and policies resulting from the Brooklin Secondary Plan and

Transportation Master Plan Studies.

Together, these elements identify the need and opportunity to support planned growth

and policy objectives through the development of a Britannia Avenue West alignment

that balances the needs of all stakeholders. The preferred alignment must consider

potential impacts to natural and social environmental features, such as the West Branch

Oshawa Creek valley, the E.P. Taylor Woodlot, University of Ontario Institute of

Technology (U.O.I.T) / Durham College campus, the Bickle subdivision, the Provincially

Significant Wetland north of the Bickle subdivision, the core Windfields Farm area

(including Northern Dancer’s gravesite), and future land use and transportation needs

into the Town of Whitby.


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5 Identification and Evaluation of Alternative

Solutions

5.1 Alternative Solutions

A number of high-level alternative solutions to address the problem and opportunity

were developed. These alternative solutions included:

Do Nothing;

Construct a New Roadway;

Transportation Demand Management (T.D.M.) Techniques;

Widening of Existing Roadways; and

Higher Order Transit.

As appropriate to satisfy Phase 2 of the Class E.A. process, a screening assessment

was undertaken to evaluate the alternative solutions. Table 2 shows the results of

screening process. The construction of a new roadway was determined to be the

preferred alternative, as it best supports future growth and land uses in north Whitby

and Oshawa, improves east-west connectivity, supports the orderly distribution of traffic

in the local area, and allows for a future westerly extension of Britannia Avenue West in

accordance with local and regional plans.


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Table 2 - Alternative Solutions

Alternative Solution

Advantages

Does not support urban growth

Does not support additional connectivity or the

Disadvantages Conclusion

Do Nothing No impacts to the natural or social environment

orderly distribution of traffic

Does not provide additional support to adjacent land uses

Does not allow for connectivity to future westerly extension

To be carried forward as a comparator

Construct a New Roadway

Provides support for urban growth

Supports additional connectivity and the orderly distribution of traffic

Provides additional support to adjacent land uses

Allows for connectivity to future westerly extension

Potential for adverse impacts to the natural and social environment

To be carried forward


49

Transportation Demand Management (e.g. carpooling, telecommuting)

Reduced impacts to the existing natural or social environment

Somewhat alleviates the strain on the existing transportation network

Does not adequately support urban growth

Does not support additional connectivity or the orderly distribution of traffic

Does not provide (adequate) additional support to adjacent land uses


Eliminated from further consideration

Widening of Existing Roadways

Somewhat reduced impacts to the existing natural and social environment







Higher Order Transit (e.g. Light Rail Transit, Bus Rapid Transit)

Reduced impacts to existing natural and social environment








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5.2 Identification of Corridors

While this study only recommends a preferred road alignment to Thornton Road North,

it was first necessary to determine the alignment of a broader Britannia Avenue West

corridor to Thickson Road North. Defining the broader corridor alignment ensures that

the long-range corridor is protected for by locating the intersections with Thornton Road

North and Thickson Road North at suitable points. The intersection location at Thornton

Road North will be used to direct future studies which seek to establish a preferred road

alignment over to Thickson Road North and potentially beyond.

Two potential corridors for the future Britannia Avenue West extension were identified.

Recognizing that the Bickle subdivision presents the major constraint in the centre of

the Study Area, it was determined that a North Corridor (north side of the Bickle

subdivision) and a South Corridor (south side of the Bickle subdivision) provided the two

best corridor alternatives to be taken forward for evaluation.

In establishing the two alternative corridors, specific features were identified. To the

north, the corridor was located to avoid the presence of a Provincially Significant

Wetland (P.S.W.) and provide a suitable distance from the existing hydro corridor and

Highway 407 East extension that is currently under construction. To the south, the

corridor was located to provide sufficient intersection spacing from Conlin Road West.

For both corridors, the Core Farm Area within the Windfields site has been avoided,

recognizing its heritage value. Figure 16 shows the alternative corridors that were

considered.

5.2.1 NORTH CORRIDOR

The North Corridor crosses the Oshawa Creek West Branch in a more northerly

location. It respects the presence of the large Provincially Significant Wetland (P.S.W.)

to the north of the Bickle subdivision by avoiding this feature altogether, before travelling

in a southerly direction, crossing the Pringle Creek tributary, and connecting with

Thickson Road North to the south of the future Highway 407 East and Hydro Corridor. A

buffer of approximately 300m was applied to the south of the future Highway 407 East

to allow for sufficient spacing between intersections. This corridor also includes one

property listed on the Town of Whitby Heritage Register (5515 Garrard Road). Due to its

cultural heritage designation, alignments within the North Corridor could be designed to

avoid this property.


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5.2.2 SOUTH CORRIDOR

The South Corridor crosses the Oshawa Creek West Branch further to the south. It

avoids the southern edge of properties within the Bickle subdivision, includes a smaller

P.S.W., and also crosses the Pringle Creek tributary before connecting with Thickson

Road North. A buffer of approximately 300m was applied to the north of Conlin Road

West to allow for sufficient spacing between intersections. This corridor includes some

residential properties to the south of the Bickle subdivision. Some of these properties

could be impacted depending on specific alignments within the South Corridor, although

alignments could be designed to avoid these properties where feasible.


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Figure 16 - Alternative Corridors


53

5.3 Evaluation of Alternative Solutions

5.3.1 EVALUATION CRITERIA

Evaluation criteria were developed to account for the natural environment, socio-

economic environment, and technical and financial considerations, as documented in

Table 3. These criteria have been developed to account for the specific features of the

Study Area, and were developed in consultation with the Stakeholder Committee.

The natural environment criteria reflect the importance of key features such as

Provincially Significant Wetlands (P.S.W.) and other wetland areas, the Oshawa Creek

West Branch and other watercourses, and presence of large wooded and/or vegetated

areas.

The socio-economic criteria focus on the importance of ensuring compatibility with local

and regional plans, in particular the need to support future development opportunities in

an area identified for significant growth, including the planned expansion of the U.O.I.T /

Durham College campus. The presence of existing residential estates, particularly the

Bickle subdivision, was also a major consideration in determining the preferred corridor.

Key technical considerations include the ability to provide flexibility for the future

westerly extension of Britannia Avenue West to Thickson Road North beyond the

timeframe of this study, as well as the extent to which the extension is feasible given

geometric constraints and the requirement for a structure across the Oshawa Creek

West Branch. This technical complexity is reflected in the overall capital cost.


54

Table 3 – Alternative Solutions Evaluation Criteria

Factor Criteria

Loss of Tree & Vegetation Cover

Impacts to Provincially Significant Wetland (P.S.W.)

Natural Environment Hydraulic Regime Impacts

Impacts to Wetlands and Watercourses

Loss of Valleyland / Riparian Vegetation

Meets the Intent of Planning Policies

Meets the Intent of Local and Regional Official Plans and Transportation Master Plans

Future Development Opportunities

Socio-Economic Environment

U.O.I.T. / Durham College Master Plan Impacts

Existing Residential and Business Impacts

Noise & Vibration Impacts

Air Quality Impacts

Loss of Agricultural Land

Flexibility for Future Westerly Extension

Technical & Financial

Geometrics

Structure Across Oshawa Creek West Branch

Cost


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Upon consultation with the Stakeholder Committee, additional importance was given to

the Future Development Opportunities criterion. Given the forecast growth and future

land uses proposed for the Study Area, it was agreed that the extension of Britannia

Avenue West should facilitate development to the best extent possible, rather than

provide a hindrance.


As shown in Table 4, the Do Nothing is the preferred alternative from a natural

environment perspective as it has no adverse impacts. The North Corridor is the least

preferred alternative because it has greater potential for loss of tree and vegetation

cover associated with the large swathes of vegetation to the north, and also greater

potential impacts to the hydraulic regime of the area. While the South Corridor has a

greater potential for loss of valleyland / riparian vegetation associated with the Oshawa

Creek West Branch, overall it is considered to have less of an impact on the natural

environment than the North Corridor.

Table 4 - Natural Environment Evaluation

Do Nothing North Corridor South Corridor


No impact Potential for greater loss Potential for some loss

Impacts to Provincially Significant Wetland (P.S.W.)

No impact Potential for minimal impact

Potential for minimal impact

Hydraulic Regime Impacts No impact Potential for greater impact

Potential for some impact

Impacts to Wetlands and Watercourses

No impact Potential for minimal impact

Potential for minimal impact


No impact Potential for some loss Potential for greater loss

Overall Most Preferred Least Preferred Moderate


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As shown in Table 5, the Do Nothing is the least preferred alternative from a socio-

economic environment perspective. While it does not have any direct adverse impacts,

it does not facilitate future growth and therefore does not meet the intent of local and

regional planning policies and planning documents. As such, it does not address the

problem and opportunity for this study. Overall, the North and South Corridors are

considered to be relatively equal and there is no clear preferred alternative. The South

Corridor has a greater potential impact on future plans for U.O.I.T. / Durham College

lands, while it also runs closer to the Bickle subdivision and therefore has greater

potential for impacts relating to noise and vibration. However, and importantly, the North

Corridor has greater potential for constraining future development opportunities, which

has been identified as a highly important factor. The presence of the Hydro Corridor to

the north and a large Provincially Significant Wetland (P.S.W.) to the south of the North

Corridor affects the opportunity to accommodate land uses on both sides of the future

extension. This disadvantage is considered to balance out any potential advantages

that the North Corridor has over the South Corridor.


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Table 5 - Socio-Economic Environment Evaluation


Meets the Intent of Planning Policies

Does not meet the intent

Meets the intent Meets the intent

Meets the Intent of Local and Regional Official Plans (O.P.) and Transportation Master Plans (T.M.P.)

Does not meet the intent

Meets the intent Meets the Intent

Future Development Opportunities

No impact Potential significant constraints

Potential minimal constraints


No impact No impact Potential for greater impact

Existing Residential and Business Impacts

No impact Potential for some impact Potential for greater impact

Loss of Agricultural Land No impact Potential for some loss Potential for some loss

Noise and Vibration Impacts No impact Potential for some localized impact

Potential for greater localized impact

Air Quality Impacts No impact Potential for some localized impact

Potential for some localized impact

Overall Least Preferred

Moderate Moderate

5.3.4 TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL

As shown in Table 6, the ‘Do Nothing’ option is the least preferred alternative from a

technical and financial perspective. While there is clearly no cost involved, it does not

provide the opportunity for a future westerly extension beyond the Study Area, as is

desired at the local and regional municipal level. Overall, the North and South Corridors

are considered to be relatively equal and there is no clear preferred alternative. While

the South Corridor requires a more complex structure across the Oshawa Creek West

Branch, it remains a structure that is technically feasible. Similarly, although the South

Corridor may potentially be more expensive, it is considered that the order of magnitude

is marginal over the potential cost of the North Corridor, at a screening level of

assessment.


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Does not Flexibility for Future

provide Provides flexibility Provides flexibility Westerly Extension

flexibility

Provides for feasible Provides for feasible Geometrics No impact

geometric alignments geometric alignments

Structure Across Oshawa No impact Less complex structure More complex structure

Creek West Branch

Least Cost Less Expensive More Expensive

expensive

Least Overall Moderate Moderate

Preferred

Table 6 - Technical and Financial Evaluation

5.4 Preferred Alternative Solution – South Corridor

The preceding evaluation indicates that the preferred alternative solution is the South

Corridor (shown in Figure 17. Overall, the South Corridor is likely to have less adverse

impacts on the natural environment and less likely to constrain future development

opportunities. Both of these factors influenced the selection of the South Corridor as the

preferred corridor for the future Britannia Avenue West extension.

The South Corridor was presented as the Preferred Alternative Solution at P.I.C. # 1.

This decision was met with overwhelming support from the general public and

Stakeholder Committee.


59

Figure 17 - Preferred Alternative Solution


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6 Alternative Design Concepts

6.1 Review of Study Approach

Sections 1 through 5 of this study documented the technical analysis and evaluation

process undertaken to fulfil Phases 1 and 2 of the Class E.A. process (Problem and

Opportunity and Alternative Solutions).

The Problem and Opportunity has been broadly defined as the requirement to support

future growth and the orderly distribution of traffic within the Study Area, while

respecting the natural and socio-economic environment.

The preferred alternative solution is that an extension of Britannia Avenue West is

needed and that between east of proposed Windfields Farm Drive and Thickson Road

North, this should be constructed in the South Corridor to the south of the Bickle

subdivision.

The remainder of this E.S.R., beginning with this section, documents the technical

analyses and evaluation process undertaken to fulfil Phases 3 and 4 of the Class E.A.

process (Alternative Design Concepts and Environmental Study Report). This has only

been undertaken for the section of the proposed extension between east of proposed

Windfields Farm Drive and Thornton Road North. The reason for this is that the Town of

Whitby has no immediate plans to construct this section of the extension and the

analyses and recommendations of the E.A. are only valid for 10 years. Further work to

establish the specific road alignment between Thornton Road North and Thickson Road

North will be undertaken at a later date. However, it was necessary at this stage in the

planning process to determine that the South Corridor is the preferred corridor in which

the extension will be located.

Following the mandatory review period this E.A. may proceed to Phase 5 of the

Municipal Class E.A. process (Implementation), beginning with detailed design and then

progressing to construction.

6.2 Alternative Design Concepts

Five alternative alignments (or Options) were developed for evaluation as described

below and presented in Figure 18. These alternatives all provide a range of technically

feasible alternative alignments for the Britannia Avenue West extension.


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Figure 18 – Alternative Alignments


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6.2.1 OPTION 1

Option 1 spans the Oshawa Creek West Branch to the south of all other options, and

provides a longer span structure on a tangent. It intersects Thornton Road North at

close to a 90-degree angle. Option 1 crosses the creek near an area identified as older

growth forest, while it also crosses near a bend in the creek. It does not however cross

any wetland features. Option 1 is also located closest to the Core Farm Area, but does

not directly impact it. Additionally, it should be noted that Option 1 could impact

properties on the west side of Thornton Road North once Britannia Avenue West is

extended beyond the limits of this Study.

6.2.2 OPTION 2

Option 2 spans the Oshawa Creek West Branch just to the north of Option 1, and also

provides a longer span structure on a tangent, intersecting Thornton Road North at

close to a 90-degree angle. As with Option 1, Option 2 crosses the creek near the older

growth forest and near a bend in the creek, while avoiding any wetland features. Option

2 is located further away from the Core Farm Area than Option 1. Additionally, it should

be noted that Option 2 could impact properties on the west side of Thornton Road North

once Britannia Avenue West is extended beyond the limits of this Study.

6.2.3 OPTION 3

Option 3 spans the Oshawa Creek West Branch significantly further north than Options

1 and 2, and provides a shorter span structure on a curve. It intersects Thornton Road

North closer to an 85-degree angle. Option 3 avoids the older growth forest; however it

crosses a wetland feature. Additionally, Option 3 crosses nearly perpendicular to the

creek. Option 3 is located significantly further away from the Core Farm Area than

Options 1 and 2. Additionally, it should be noted that Option 3 could impact properties

on the west side of Thornton Road North once Britannia Avenue West is extended

beyond the limits of this Study.

6.2.4 OPTION 4

Option 4 spans the Oshawa Creek West Branch to the north of all other options, and

also provides a shorter span structure on a curve. It intersects Thornton Road North

closer to an 80-degree angle. As with Option 3, Option 4 avoids the older growth forest

and crosses a wetland feature, but does cross nearly perpendicular to the creek. Option

4 is located furthest away from the Core Farm Area. Additionally, it should be noted that

Option 4 could impact properties on the west side of Thornton Road North once

Britannia Avenue West is extended beyond the limits of this Study.


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6.2.5 OPTION 5

Option 5 spans the Oshawa Creek West Branch between Options 1 and 2 and Options

3 and 4, and provides a longer span structure on a tangent. It intersects Thornton Road

North at a 90-degree angle. In comparison to other options, Option 5 does not cross

either wetland features or the older growth forest, while it crosses nearly perpendicular

to the creek. Option 5 does not create any direct future impacts to property owners

along Thornton Road North, as it avoids any buildings. While all other options do not

have immediate direct impacts to existing properties, any future extension to Thickson

Road North would result in direct impacts to buildings.

6.3 Evaluation of Alternative Design Concepts

6.3.1 EVALUATION CRITERIA

A list of evaluation criteria was developed to account for the natural environment, socio-

economic environment, and technical and financial considerations, as documented in

Table 7. These criteria have been developed to account for the specific features of the

Study Area for Phases 1 and 2, and were developed in consultation with key

stakeholders.

The key differences between this list of evaluation criteria and that used in Phases 1

and 2 are as follows:

Specific impacts to the Oshawa Creek West Branch and a small tributary are

considered;

Specific impacts to identified wildlife species and wildlife habitat identified in the

Study Area have been evaluated – including an area of older growth forest

containing Butternut and suspected raptor nest and Barn Swallow foraging;

Archaeological and cultural heritage impacts have been considered – including

the results of Stage 1 and 2 Archaeological Assessments and impacts to the

Core Farm Area; and

Traffic operations have been evaluated – including the significance of intersection angles and associated sight distances.


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Table 7 – Alternative Design Concepts Evaluation Criteria

Factor Criteria


Wetland Impacts

M.N.R.F. Designated Area Impacts

Natural Environment Impacts to Oshawa Creek West Branch

Impacts to Oshawa Creek Tributary

Wildlife Impacts


Archaeology Impacts

Cultural Heritage Impacts



Existing Residential Impacts


Noise & Vibration Impacts

Air Quality Impacts

Traffic Operations

Geometrics

Technical & Financial Structure Across Oshawa Creek West Branch

Constructability

Cost

The evaluation of alternative design concepts is presented in Table 8 and detailed in

the following sections.


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Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Option 5

Natural Environment

Crosses near an area of Crosses near an area of Avoids Old Growth Forest Avoids Old Growth Avoids Old Growth

Loss of Tree & Vegetation old growth forest with old growth forest with and Endangered Forest and Endangered Forest and Endangered

Cover several large trees and several large trees and Butternut. Butternut. Butternut.

endangered Butternut endangered Butternut

Does not cross any Does not cross any Crosses an area of Crosses an area of Does not cross any Wetland Impacts

wetlands. wetlands. deciduous swamp deciduous swamp wetlands.

No direct impacts to M.N.R.F. Designated Area Closest to Old Growth Closest to Old Growth No direct impacts to Old No direct impacts to Old

Old Growth Forest or Impacts Forest and PSW. Forest and PSW. Growth Forest or PSW. Growth Forest or PSW.

PSW.

Crosses nearly Crosses nearly Crosses nearly

Crosses near bend; Crosses near bend; perpendicular to creek; Impacts to Oshawa Creek perpendicular to creek; perpendicular to creek;

potential in-channel potential in-channel potential upstream in-West Branch limited in-water works limited in-water works

stabilization required stabilization required channel works to required required

stabilize meander bend

Impacts to Oshawa Creek Crosses tributary; no Crosses tributary; no Does not cross tributary Does not cross tributary Does not cross tributary

Tributary significant impacts significant impacts

Table 8 - Evaluation of Alternative Design Concepts


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Greater impacts to Greater impacts to wildlife

wildlife habitat, including habitat, including a Lessened impacts to Lessened impacts to Lessened impacts to

Wildlife Impacts a suspected raptor nest suspected raptor nest and wildlife habitat wildlife habitat wildlife habitat

and Barn Swallow Barn Swallow foraging

foraging

Longer crossing of Longer crossing of valley Shorter crossing of valley Shorter crossing of Longer crossing of Loss of Valleyland/Riparian

valley lands disturbs lands disturbs more lands disturbs less valley lands disturbs valley lands disturbs Vegetation

more vegetation vegetation vegetation less vegetation more vegetation

Natural Environment Least Preferred Least Preferred Moderate Moderate Most Preferred


No archaeological No archaeological No archaeological No archaeological No archaeological resources uncovered to resources uncovered to resources uncovered to resources uncovered to resources uncovered to date; Stage 2 date; Stage 2 date; Stage 2 date; Stage 2 date; Stage 2

Archaeology Impacts Archaeological Archaeological Archaeological Archaeological Archaeological Assessment to be Assessment to be Assessment to be Assessment to be Assessment to be completed as part of completed as part of completed as part of completed as part of completed as part of detailed design. detailed design. detailed design. detailed design. detailed design.

Closest to Core Farm Furthest from Core Farm Closer to Core Farm Closer to Core Farm Area. Furthest from Core Farm

area. No direct impacts Area. No direct impacts Area. No direct impacts Cultural Heritage Impacts No direct impacts to built Area. No direct impacts to

to built heritage to built heritage to built heritage heritage buildings. built heritage buildings.

buildings. buildings. buildings.

Provides less land for Provides less land for Provides more land for Provides more land for Provides less land for U.O.I.T./Durham College

future UOIT / DC future UOIT / DC future UOIT / DC future UOIT / DC future UOIT / DC Master Plan Impacts

expansion. expansion. expansion. expansion. expansion.


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Existing Residential Impacts

No immediate direct impact. Future impact to residents at 2190 Thornton Road North.


No immediate direct impact. Future impact to residents at 2182Thornton Road North.


No immediate direct impact. Importantly, no future impact to residents on Thornton Road North.


Moderate impacts to existing agricultural fields on west side of Creek.





Noise and Vibration Impacts

Additional traffic on Britannia Avenue extension will result in moderate noise and vibration impacts.





Air Quality Impacts

Additional traffic on Britannia Avenue extension will result in moderate air quality impacts.





Socio-Economic Least Preferred Moderate Moderate Moderate Most Preferred

Technical and Financial


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Traffic Operations

Intersection with Thornton Road is on tangent and at close to 90o angle.

Intersection with Thornton Road is on tangent and at close to 90o angle.

Intersection with Thornton Road is on R-300m curve and at close to 85o angle. May be concerns with sight distances.

Intersection with Thornton Road is on tangent and at close to 80o angle. May be concerns with sight distances.

Intersection with Thornton Road is on tangent and at 90o angle.

Geometrics R-300 curves, long tangent between curves.

R-300 curves, long tangent between curves.

R-300 curves, short tangent between curves.

R-300 curves, short tangent between curves.

R-300 curves, long tangent between curves.

Structure Across Oshawa Creek West Branch

Longer span structure on tangent.


Shorter span structure on curve.

Shorter span structure on curve.


Constructability Tangential structure easier to build.

Tangential structure easier to build.

Curved structure more complex.

Curved structure more complex.

Tangential structure easier to build.

Cost Moderately expensive. Moderately expensive. Least expensive. Least expensive. Most expensive.

Technical/Financial Most Preferred Most Preferred Moderate Least Preferred Moderate

OVERALL EVALUATION PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE


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Option 5 is considered to be the most preferred alternative. Crucially, it is the only

option to avoid both the older growth forest and wetland features; all other options

impact one of these features. Additionally, it does not cross the small tributary of the

Oshawa Creek West Branch. Potential upstream in-channel works may be required to

stabilize a meander bend, while the longer crossing of the valleylands has the potential

to disturb more vegetated areas.

Options 3 and 4 are considered to be moderately preferred alternatives. Both options

avoid the older growth forest, but cross an area of deciduous swamp. Through

consultation with CLOCA, it was determined that this is considered to be less significant

than potential impacts to the older growth forest, which is a characteristic of both

Options 1 and 2. Options 3 and 4 also cross nearly perpendicular to the creek, therefore

requiring limited in-water works, whereas Options 1 and 2 cross near a bend and in-

channel stabilization may be required. As Options 3 and 4 avoid the older growth forest,

they are considered to have lesser impacts to wildlife habitat in comparison to Options 1

and 2, which have the potential for greater impacts to a suspected raptor nest and Barn

Swallow foraging.

For the reasons outlined above, Options 1 and 2 are considered to be the least

preferred alternatives.


Option 5 is considered to be the most preferred alternative. Most importantly, it is the

only option to avoid direct future impacts to properties; all other options will result in

direct future impacts to specific properties.

Options 2, 3 and 4 are considered to be moderately preferred alternatives. Options 3

and 4 are slightly more favourable because they are located further to the north and

therefore present less of a constraint to the future expansion plans of U.O.I.T / Durham

College. They are also located further away from the Core Farm Area, although none of

the options will result in direct impacts to this area.

Option 1 is considered to be the least preferred alternative simply because it is closer to

the Core Farm Area than all other options. Other than this, it is comparable to Option 2.


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6.3.4 TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL

Options 1 and 2 are considered to be the most preferred alternatives. Both options

intersect Thornton Road North close to a 90-degree angle, therefore reducing potential

sight distance concerns, and provide a long tangent between curves, with a tangential

structure being easier to construct. The longer span structure is more costly and overall,

Options 1 and 2 are considered to be moderately expensive alternatives in comparison

to Options 3 and 4, albeit only marginally so based on preliminary cost estimates.

Options 3 and 5 are considered to be moderately preferred alternatives. Option 3

intersects Thornton Road North closer to an 85-degree angle, and has a short tangent

between curves, with a curved structure more complex to construct. However, the

shorter span structure is less costly, and as a result Option 3 (and Option 4 as

described below) is the least expensive alternative. Option 5 is technically more

favourable than Option 3 as it intersects Thornton Road North on a 90-degree angle,

with a long tangent between curves, and a tangential structure that is easier to

construct. However, it is considered to be the most expensive alternative because it has

the longest span structure of all the alternatives.

Option 4 is considered to be the least preferred alternative. While it shares many of the

same technical and financial characteristics as Option 3, the main disadvantage is that it

intersects Thornton Road North at closer to an 80-degree angle. This may result in

concerns over sight distances.

6.3.5 OVERALL EVALUATION

Overall, Option 5 is considered to be the preferred alternative. From a natural

environment perspective, it has the least potential impacts because it avoids both the

older growth forest and wetland features, which represent the primary natural resources

in the Study Area. From a socio-economic perspective, Option 5 is the preferred

alternative because it avoids direct future impacts to properties fronting onto Thornton

Road North. This is perhaps the single main advantage of Option 5 over all other

alternatives. Although Option 5 represents the most expensive alternative, it is one of

the most technically feasible alternatives.

It should be noted that a Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment will be completed during

detailed design to identify the presence of any archaeological resources within the

vicinity of Option 5. Based on preliminary Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment findings

available during this E.A. study for a portion of the lands within the preferred road

alignment right-of-way, no archaeological resources have been uncovered.


71

Option 5 was presented as the Preferred Alternative Design Concept at P.I.C. # 2. This

decision was met with overwhelming support from the general public and Stakeholder

Committee.

6.4 Preferred Design Concept – Option 5

As noted above, Option 5 is considered to be the preferred alternative design concept.

The preferred alignment is shown in Figure 19 below.


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Figure 19 - Preferred Alignment


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7 Potential Effects and Mitigation Measures for the

Preferred Alternative

The potential effects and proposed mitigation measures associated with the preferred

alternative are detailed below and summarized in Table 10.

7.1 Natural Environment

7.1.1 LOSS OF TREE & VEGETATION COVER

Potential Effects

Permanent removal of vegetation within the proposed road footprint represents an

impact that cannot be mitigated. Removal of vegetation will expose soils resulting in

potential erosion from these areas and sedimentation within retained vegetation

communities.

Construction of the proposed Britannia Avenue West extension will remove several

locations of Old Field Meadow. These culturally influenced features contain many

invasive and native species and provide wildlife habitat. There is ample alternate Old

Field meadow habitat to support these species. Numerous candidate Butternut (Juglans

cinerea) were found in these habitats. Hybridity should be assessed and a Butternut

Health Assessment performed by a certified Butternut Health Assessor for all candidate

Butternut prior to any construction.

Construction activities will remove or impact up to six locations of Cultural Woodland.

These woodlands provide wildlife habitat and important functions as woodland edges

and wind breaks. Construction activities will also remove or impact a portion of several

other forest units. Impacts may include shading due to a new elevated crossing

structure. A detailed tree inventory should be undertaken once the final alignment has

been designed. All trees which will need to be removed or will be impacted (either by

compaction or shading) should be inventoried.

Mitigation

A tree inventory should be performed for any trees likely to be removed or impacted by

the crossing structure.


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Damage to sensitive vegetation beyond that required for construction of the new road

can be limited by clearly delineating vegetation protection zones on contract documents

and in the field using sturdy fencing, and using appropriate tree clearing practices

including felling trees away from retained areas. These measures are particularly

relevant to forested areas of the Oshawa Creek West Branch.

An erosion control strategy will be developed to isolate construction zones from retained

vegetation using silt fencing. Silt fencing will be monitored and maintained throughout

the construction period to ensure proper function. Areas where temporary

disturbance/removal of vegetation is required for construction will be re-vegetated

immediately following construction with an appropriate native seed mix and planting of

native trees and shrubs to stabilize soils.

The landscape planting plan and road design will consider potential impacts to retained

vegetation (particularly within the Oshawa Creek valley) associated with salt spray and

other operational impacts, and mitigate these impacts to the extent possible.

Following a Butternut Health Assessment, a plan for Butternut preservation, re-location,

or compensation will be made in accordance with the Endangered Species Act (2007)

and Ontario Regulation 242/08. Monitoring required by any exemptions for Butternut

under the ESA will be undertaken in accordance with O. Reg. 242/08.

A planting plan and edge management plan will be developed in accordance with any

specifications from CLOCA or the municipality for compensation of any lost trees and to

guard against edge damage due to new woodland edges. Monitoring of survival of

planted trees and re-planting will occur as necessary.

7.1.2 WETLAND IMPACTS

Potential Effects

While the preferred alternative avoids direct impacts to wetland features, grading and

construction activities in the Oshawa Creek floodplain in close proximity to retained

wetland features could alter drainage conditions resulting in changes to soil moisture

levels within retained wetland communities.

The wetland communities located within W2 may be impacted if the hydrological

connection from the P.S.W. is not maintained.


75

Mitigation

A detailed mitigation strategy will be developed during detailed design to prevent

indirect impacts to retained wetland vegetation within the Oshawa Creek valley

associated with potential changes to groundwater/drainage conditions as a result of

bridge construction.

The hydrological connection of the W2 P.S.W. south under the proposed Britannia

Avenue West extension will be maintained via culverts and grading provisions and the

existing vegetation community will be preserved where possible outside of the limits of

grading. Based on the proposed road classification (Type ‘C’ arterial), the culvert size

across the alignment will be at least 800 mm in diameter in order to maintain the

hydrologic connection.

7.1.3 M.N.R. DESIGNATED AREA IMPACTS

Potential Effects

While the preferred alternative is a considerable distance from P.S.W.’s, depending on

the final alignment of the proposed Britannia Avenue West extension, the P.S.W. unit

located within the Oshawa Creek Tributary may experience reduced water inputs. The

construction of the proposed Britannia Avenue West extension could also impact the

P.S.W. community located within W2.

Mitigation

The hydrological connection of the landscape to the unit in the Oshawa Creek Tributary

P.S.W. will be maintained via culverts and grading provisions. The hydrological

connection of the W2 P.S.W. south under Britannia Avenue West will also be

maintained via culverts and grading provisions.

Pre- and Post-construction wetland monitoring plots will be established in the P.S.W.

units to judge if there are any hydrological changes due to the road.


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7.1.4 IMPACTS TO OSHAWA CREEK WEST BRANCH

Potential Effects

While the proposed Britannia Avenue West extension crossing structure will not require

in-water piers, in-water works will be required for construction access across the

Oshawa Creek West Branch. In-water works to realign and stabilize the watercourse

where the proposed Britannia Avenue West extension alignment crosses could occur,

although at this stage of design, in-water works are currently not anticipated. The

transport of deleterious substances (e.g. sediment, fuel, etc.) associated with

construction may also occur.

Mitigation

The M.N.R.F.’s permissible in-water timing window shall be adhered to and effective

erosion and sediment control measures should be installed before starting work to

prevent sediment from entering the aquatic environment. Measures for managing water

flowing into the work site will be incorporated where required, as well as water being

pumped / diverted from the site such that sediment is filtered out prior to the water

entering a watercourse.

Waste/construction materials will be properly stored above the high water mark of

nearby watercourses to prevent entry into the aquatic environment. All excess

construction materials will be removed from site upon project completion.

Regular inspection and maintenance of erosion and sediment control measures and

structures will be carried out during the course of construction and removal of non-

biodegradable erosion and sediment control materials will occur once the site is

stabilized.

Disturbed channel banks and riparian areas will be stabilized as soon as practicable

following construction to prevent erosion and/or sedimentation, ultimately through re-

vegetation with native species suitable for the site.

Machinery will arrive on site in a clean condition and be maintained free of fluid leaks,

invasive species and noxious weeds. Whenever possible, machinery will be operated

on land above the high water mark, in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the

banks and bed of the watercourse. Washing, refueling and servicing machinery and

storage of fuel and other materials for the machinery will be carried out in such a way as

to prevent any deleterious substances from entering the water.




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7.1.5 IMPACTS TO OSHAWA CREEK TRIBUTARY

Potential Effects

In-filling or piping the watercourse where the proposed alignment crosses may occur.

The transport of deleterious substances (e.g. sediment, fuel, etc.) associated with

construction may also occur.

Mitigation

Measures for managing water flowing into the work site will be incorporated where

required, as well as water being pumped / diverted from the site such that sediment is

filtered out prior to the water entering a watercourse.

Waste/construction materials will be properly stored above the high water mark of

nearby watercourses to prevent entry into the aquatic environment. All excess

construction materials will be removed from site upon project completion.

Machinery will arrive on site in a clean condition and be maintained free of fluid leaks,

invasive species and noxious weeds. Whenever possible, machinery will be operated

on land above the high water mark, in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the

banks and bed of the watercourse. Washing, refueling and servicing machinery and

storage of fuel and other materials for the machinery will be carried out in such a way as

to prevent any deleterious substances from entering the water.

7.1.6 WILDLIFE IMPACTS

Potential Effects

Nesting and foraging habitat for Barn Swallow will be removed. The meadows and

cropland surrounding the Study Area provides ample alternate foraging habitat;

however the availability of alternate nesting habitat should be confirmed through

monitoring of nesting activity in remaining or built structures in accordance with ESA

requirements.

The proposed Britannia Avenue West extension may introduce unsuitable habitat

conditions for the Eastern Wood-pewee through the creation of a new forest edge and

will fragment a natural, sheltered valley and impede movement through this valley,

which may cause Red-tailed Hawk to abandon the site as nesting habitat.


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A loss of riparian vegetation that reduces shading and the input of allochthonous

nutrients (i.e. sources of nutrients that come from outside the aquatic system, such as

plant and soil material) and the loss/alteration of habitat, including a reduction in habitat

quality to support the fish community (including American Eel) during construction due

to in-water work or de-watering may occur. However, the overall potential impacts to

fish and aquatic habitat are anticipated to be minimal and can be addressed through the

utilization of mitigation measures and through additional consultation with the regulatory

agencies during detail design.

Mitigation

Provide nesting habitat in accordance with ESA requirements and consider species’

habitat requirements in the edge management plan. Incorporate road design features

that minimize the disturbance. Monitoring of the annual use of nesting structures and

changes in edge conditions will occur as necessary.

Clearing of riparian vegetation will be kept to a minimum. When practicable, vegetation

will be pruned or topped instead of grubbing/uprooting.

Any surface water intakes will be appropriately screened to prevent entrainment or

impingement of fish. Maintenance of flow shall be undertaken, and where required, fish

passage will be provided during construction.

7.1.7 LOSS OF VALLEYLAND/RIPARIAN VEGETATION

Potential Effects

While the preferred alternative avoids the Old Growth Forest and will not eliminate any

unique communities in the Valleyland, the creation of a new forest edge adjacent to the

cleared area has the potential to adversely affect the remaining forest vegetation.

Following clearing, the increased penetration of solar radiation and wind can increase

desiccation within the forest edge, adversely affecting the health of the remaining trees

and increasing potential wind damage to retained trees along the new edge.

Further, exposed forest edges, particularly those along roadways, provide easy points

of access for the introduction of non-native plant species. Upon becoming established,

these species can spread throughout the valley system, adversely affecting native

vegetation communities.


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Mitigation

Development of a landscape planting plan for the West Branch of the Oshawa Creek

valleyland will help mitigate potential impacts associated with creation of a new edge.

The plan will include provision for planting a dense mix of native trees and shrubs at the

cut edge following construction to help mitigate impacts to the remaining vegetation

cover. The plantings should be designed in such a way as to recreate a natural forest

edge, with a gradual transition from forest interior to shrubs and open field vegetation.

Species should include locally sourced Eastern White Cedar and other native species

present within the valley at the proposed crossing location. Plantings should also be

designed to enhance wildlife movement under the new bridge structure.

7.1.8 IMPACTS TO SURFACE WATER

Surface water impacts along the Britannia Avenue West corridor were considered and

addressed during the preparation of the Master Environmental Servicing Plan

(M.E.S.P.) - Windfields Planning Area – West of Simcoe Street prepared by MMM

Group (July, 2013). The following sub-sections address the three key components

relating to surface water impacts: Floodplain Management and Geomorphology;

Stormwater Management; and Stream Crossings and Hydraulics. Potential effects and

mitigation measures are identified in regards to the preferred alignment. Where these

effects were addressed in the M.E.S.P., appropriate references to the pertinent sections

are included. For ease of reference, excerpts of those relevant M.E.S.P. sections are

included in Appendix H of this E.S.R.

In Section 7.1.8.4, the construction, operation and maintenance considerations with

respect to impacts on surface water are also identified along with potential mitigation

measures to minimize those impacts.

7.1.8.1 Floodplain Management and Geomorphology

Potential Effects

The road alignment will cross the West Branch of the Oshawa Creek and its Tributary

W1. There is the potential for the road alignment to obstruct flood flows, impact the

geomorphology of the watercourses, and have an adverse impact on existing flood

elevations upstream of the crossing.


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Mitigation

Section A3.1.2 of the M.E.S.P. examined the floodplain limits for these two

watercourses, as well as their geomorphology. The original delineation of the floodplain

for the two watercourses was completed as part of the Oshawa Creek Watershed

Study. For the M.E.S.P., an erosion and geomorphological assessment of the existing

condition of the watercourses was carried out. The assessments indicated that both

watercourses are “stable, as appears to be the case from the observed condition of the

watercourse[s]”. To mitigate any impact on the geomorphology, the proposed

watercourse structures will be open bottom, with sufficient span to clear the watercourse

and, if feasible, permit the migration of the channel (meandering). Section B3.0 of the

M.E.S.P. describes the modeling that was done for these two crossings—see also

Section 7.1.8.3. A detailed geomorphological assessment of the West Branch of the

Oshawa Creek will be completed during the detailed design of the bridge structure to


watercourse.

7.1.8.2 Stormwater Management

Potential Effects

The West Branch Oshawa Creek supports a coldwater fishery habitat that could be

impacted by the quality of runoff from the roadway. The proposed roadway development

shall not cause deterioration to the existing water quality in the receiving waters. In

addition, the increases in imperviousness should not impact existing hydrologic regimes

with respect to water budget/balance and runoff volumes.

Mitigation

The coldwater fishery and quality of the receiving waters will be maintained by applying

an appropriate level of stormwater control for all outfalls from the roadway corridor. The

stormwater management criteria for water quality treatment and quantity control

identified in the M.E.S.P. are:

o Water quality control - Enhanced Level Protection (Level I) is required; and

o Water quantity control - the provision of storage for flow attenuation is not required.

The hydrology study for the M.E.S.P. established that water quantity control is not

required for the development area bounded by Thornton Road and Simcoe Street North

in order to maintain the pre-development hydrologic regimes in Oshawa Creek.


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The stormwater management strategy to achieve these criteria will generally entail a

treatment train approach. The proposed Britannia Avenue extension is approximately

1.1 km long, with a plan area less than 2 hectares. Except for an approximately 400 m

long segment (from east bank of Tributary W2 to the east limit of the project) that drains

to the east, the majority of the proposed extension will drain generally towards the west.

There will be a low point located about 180m west of the West Branch of Oshawa

Creek, where a culvert will be located to convey runoff to the wetland located south of

Britannia Avenue. When compared to the 280 hectares drainage area of the West

Branch of Oshawa Creek at Britannia Avenue, the roadway development will have only

a negligible impact on the existing hydrologic regime of the Creek.

The stormwater management plan for the roadway segment that slopes to the east and

connects to the E.A. exempted segment of Britannia Avenue West was addressed in a

memo On-Site Quality Control Dantonbury Development-Phase 1A prepared by MMM

Group (October, 2014) for the M.O.E.C.C. The memo recommended an Imbrium

Stormceptor unit (STC-2000), which provides 80% TSS removal and 93% annual runoff

volume treatment. The treated water runoff from the Oil-Grit Separator (OGS) unit will

then discharge to a vegetated swale, and eventually to Tributary W2. This treatment

train approach will be applied to all areas of the roadway that cannot be conveyed to a

SWM facility.

For the 700 m roadway segment draining to the west, the following is the proposed

SWM strategy, based on expected phasing of the subdivision development:

Ultimate Development Conditions

Under the ultimate development conditions, the proposed roadway extension will be

part of the residential/commercial development between Tributary W2 west to Thornton

Road. The SWM facilities proposed in the M.E.S.P. will be constructed to provide the

required water treatments for the development. According to the proposed SWM pond

locations of the M.E.S.P. (shown in Figure B1.2 of Appendix H), the roadway runoff will

be directed by a storm sewer system into Pond J located south of Britannia Avenue for

water treatment prior to discharge to the creek. The detailed design for Pond J will

accommodate roadway drainage from this segment and will be discharged based on the

aforementioned SWM criteria.

Interim Development Conditions

Under interim conditions, i.e., before the ponds are constructed, the proposed roadway

extension will drain to proposed OGS units combined with vegetated swales as part of

the treatment train approach.


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Runoff upstream of the West Branch Oshawa Creek Bridge will be intercepted prior to

the bridge deck. Bridge deck drainage will be collected by a trunk sewer system and

treated by an OGS unit prior to discharge to a vegetated swale. As part of the detailed

design phase, the OGS unit will be sized to achieve the 80% TSS removal rate and

90% runoff treatment rate required by M.O.E.C.C. A vegetated swale downstream of the

OGS unit will be designed and constructed to complete the runoff treatment train prior to

discharge to the Creek.

Water Balance

A comprehensive water balance analysis was carried out for the M.E.S.P. (Section

A3.3.3) which established various mitigation measures to maintain local groundwater

recharge and discharge for the development area to the extent possible. All vegetated

swales will be designed with a flat grading (typically 2%), wherever feasible, to prolong

the runoff travel time and maximize the opportunity for infiltration.

7.1.8.3 Stream Crossings and Hydraulics

Potential Effects

There will be two major and one minor watercourse crossings along the preferred

alignment. These crossings could potentially impact upstream flood levels and lead to

local erosion of the watercourse if not appropriately sized.

Mitigation

The two major crossings of Britannia Avenue West associated with the West Branch of

Oshawa Creek and Tributary W2 were assessed as part of the MESP. These two

crossings were analyzed using the HEC-RAS hydraulic model for the 100-year and

Regional Storm events and the M.E.S.P. results have been reviewed and accepted by

CLOCA.

The modelling indicated that a minimum 80 m long bridge will be required to span the

West Branch of Oshawa Creek in order to minimize its hydraulic impact. The proposed

structure will be about 195 m. The minimum soffit elevation of the bridge will be the

higher of the Regional Flood level or one metre above the 100-year design flood level,

which will be determined during the detailed design. A detailed analysis of the bridge

hydraulics will be completed during the detailed design of the structure to determine the

impact of the final configuration of the bridge.


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The hydraulic modeling for Tributary W2 showed that an 11 m span open footing

structure will be required to minimize hydraulic impacts associated with the 100-year

and Regional Storm flows. The M.E.S.P.’s HEC-RAS modelling predicts that with the

proposed crossing in place, there will be a slight increase in the 100-year and Regional

Floodline elevations immediately upstream of the bridge, which would be fully

constrained within the steep valley walls. A detailed analysis of the bridge hydraulics will

be completed during the detailed design of the structure to determine the impact of the

final configuration.

The minor crossing located west of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek to maintain flow

connectivity south will be at least 800 mm in diameter, as noted above. The size of the

culvert will be evaluated during detailed design to consider the impact of its final

configuration and any stormwater management measures.

7.1.8.4 Construction, Operation and Maintenance

Potential Effects

Appropriate erosion and sediment control measures will be required during construction

when soils are exposed as a result of the removal of natural vegetative cover. There is a

high potential to cause large magnitude, short-term sediment export from the site. The

ongoing operation of the roadway will also generate pollutants and contaminants that

will need to be trapped and prevented from being transported to the downstream

receiving waters.

As part of winter maintenance, road salt (sodium chloride) will likely be used as an anti-

icing agent. The use of salt on any road has the potential to impact surface water and

fish habitats.

The Transportation Association of Canada’s Salt Management Guide (2012) concluded

the following:

Numerous studies have confirmed that elevated chlorides in surface water are

linked to winter road maintenance activities;

There is no practical way to remove chlorides from salt-impacted runoff water;

Surges of high chloride concentrations in receiving waters from road salt typically

occur during the winter and thaw periods. This corresponds to times of high flow

and high dilution;

Groundwater is particularly sensitive to chloride loadings; and,


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Water bodies most sensitive to increased concentrations of sodium and chloride

from the loading of road salts are…streams draining large urbanized areas and

wetlands adjacent to major roadways.

Mitigation

During construction, on-site sediment controls will be necessary and a sediment and

erosion control plan will be developed as part of the detailed design phase. The

sediment and erosion control plan will identify measures to be installed prior to the start

of construction that will remain in place through to the end of construction period, when

the site has been stabilized. All disturbed areas must be stabilized as quickly as

possible. Stabilization of disturbed areas will be accomplished by sodding, seeding,

mulching, hydroseeding and planting. Temporary measures may employ the use of

biodegradable erosion control blankets. The proposed stormwater management system

for the roadway will address any long term pollutant and contaminant loadings

associated with the operation of the roadway.

The proposed extension will be an arterial road under the jurisdiction of the City of

Oshawa. Reducing salt use is the best way to protect aquatic habitat. As such, the City

of Oshawa should:

Determine the vulnerability of the Tributary of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek

and West Branch of Oshawa Creek to salt impacts as part of their Salt

Vulnerable area mapping;

Review the Level of Service for the road to appropriately minimize salt use while

meeting the primary goal of safety;

Look at reducing salt use through enhanced weather forecasting, monitoring of

pavement temperature, use direct liquid application, or use salt alternatives; and,

Integrate the above into their existing Salt Management Plan.

In terms of design, salt-laden runoff water should be directed, if possible, to

watercourses with high spring flows or the best dilution capacity.

The M.O.E.C.C.’s Central Region Permit to Take Water (PTTW) Coordinator will be

contacted prior to detailed design to confirm approval requirements for water takings

during construction and/or operation for groundwater or surface water extraction, and

the active diversion of surface water flows by pumping in exceedance of 50,000 litres

per day.


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7.2 Socio-Economic Environment

7.2.1 ARCHAEOLOGY IMPACTS

Potential Effects

The Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment identified the potential for the recovery of

archaeologically significant materials within undisturbed portions of the Study Area. A

Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment will be completed during detailed design to identify

the presence of any archaeological resources. Based on preliminary Stage 2

Archaeological Assessment findings available during this E.A. study for a portion of the

impacted lands, no archaeological resources have been uncovered.

Mitigation

The Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment will determine what mitigation measures (if

any) are required to avoid known archaeological resources.

No excavation activities shall take place within the Study Area prior to the M.T.C.S.

(Archaeology Program Unit) confirming in writing that all archaeological licencing and

technical review requirements have been satisfied.

Should previously undocumented archaeological resources be discovered, they may be

a new archaeological site and therefore subject to Section 48 (1) of the Ontario Heritage

Act. The proponent or person discovering the archaeological resources must cease

alteration of the site immediately and engage a licenced consultant archaeologist to

carry out additional fieldwork, in compliance with Section 48 (1) of the Ontario Heritage

Act.

The Cemeteries Act, R.S.O. 1990 c.C4 and the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services

Act, 2002, S.O. 2002, c.33 (when proclaimed in force) require that any person

discovering human remains must notify the police or coroner and the Registrar of

Cemeteries at the Ministry of Consumer Services.

7.2.2 CULTURAL HERITAGE IMPACTS

Potential Effects

The preferred alignment is located to the north of the Core Farm Area and will not result

in any direct impacts. There are no provincially or federally recognized heritage

resources within the Study Area.


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Mitigation

None required.

7.2.3 U.O.I.T./DURHAM COLLEGE MASTER PLAN IMPACTS

Potential Effects

U.O.I.T / Durham College lands will be bisected by the proposed Britannia Avenue West

extension.

Mitigation

An intersection proposed between Thornton Road North and the West Branch of

Oshawa Creek will provide access to U.O.I.T / Durham College lands on either side of

Britannia Avenue West.

7.2.4 EXISTING RESIDENTIAL IMPACTS

Potential Effects

There will be no immediate or direct impacts to residences located at 2170-2190

Thornton Road North or disruption to residential access in these locations during works

to complete the proposed extension at its intersection with Thornton Road North. While

it is not part of the scope for this EA study, there should be no future direct impacts to

existing residences located at 2170-2190 Thornton Road North, as the preferred

Britannia Avenue West alignment to the west of Thornton Road North will be north of

these properties.

Mitigation

A Traffic Management Plan will be developed as required to appropriately direct local

traffic as works are undertaken at the proposed intersection with Thornton Road North.

The future alignment of Britannia Avenue West west of Thornton Road North should

avoid direct impacts to existing residences located at 2170-2190 Thornton Road North.

However, if a roundabout is proposed for the future Thornton Road North – Britannia

Avenue West intersection, driveway access to these properties must be maintained.

During detailed design, if any wells are discovered to be used domestically, any affected

well owners will continue to have water supplies of appropriate quality and in adequate

quantities during construction. Any work done on affected wells or any replacement

wells will be done pursuant to O. Reg. 903, Wells (pursuant to the Ontario Water

Resources Act).


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7.2.5 OTHER PROPERTY IMPACTS

Potential Effects

The proposed route currently requires removal of a barn that is the property of U.O.I.T.

Mitigation

U.O.I.T. is aware of the barn removal. Soil investigations will be undertaken to

determine the extent of contamination given previous uses.

7.2.6 LOSS OF AGRICULTURAL LAND

Potential Effects

There will be a loss of agricultural land to the west of the Oshawa Creek West Branch.

Mitigation

The lands on the west side of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek are currently farmed

under a lease agreement with U.O.I.T. / Durham College. The proposed road will bisect

these lands. Discussions between the City of Oshawa and U.O.I.T. / Durham College

should be undertaken to determine if farm accesses are to be provided temporarily so

that the lands can be farmed effectively or if access will only be provided off of Thornton

Road North.

7.2.7 NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACTS

Potential Effects

Traffic on Britannia Avenue West will result in increased levels of noise and vibration in

the immediate vicinity. During construction, there may be temporary increased levels of

noise and vibration experienced by residences at 2170-2190 Thornton Road North as

construction occurs at the proposed intersection location.

Mitigation

Noise barriers will be installed around construction areas in close proximity to sensitive

receptors (i.e. residences at 2170-2190 Thornton Road North).

During construction, the City of Oshawa’s noise by-law will be adhered to (By-law 112-

82). This restricts any sound made by construction activities to the hours of 7:00 am to

7:00 pm (on any day that is not a holiday) and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (on Sundays).


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Vibration monitoring for construction activities in close proximity to existing structures

and buried infrastructure is recommended to ensure any established allowable

thresholds are not exceeded.

7.2.8 AIR QUALITY IMPACTS

Potential Effects

Traffic on Britannia Avenue West will affect local air quality in the immediate vicinity.

Dust will be generated through construction activities such as site grading and the

preparation of the roadbed. Dust impacts are expected to be limited and to occur only

for a short period of time during grading and excavation.

Mitigation

Dust suppression methods (water or other suppressant as appropriate) will be used in

close proximity to dust sensitive areas (i.e. properties at 2170-2190 Thornton Road

North) to control off-site migration of particulates. It is noted that the M.O.E.C.C.

recommends the use of non-chloride dust suppressants. Other dust control methods

include:

On-site vehicle and equipment idling will be discouraged where practical;

Tracking of earth or soil from the site on trucks will be minimized through the use

of mud mats located at the site entrance – if this is not effective then the physical

removal of earth or soil from vehicles will be implemented;

Vehicles hauling soil, aggregates or other dusty materials will be covered to

minimize dust generation;

Construction activities will be scheduled to limit areas of exposed soil and dust

generation; and

Exposed sources of fugitive dust will be covered where practical and soil

surfaces will be restored and re-vegetated as soon as practical.Technical and

Financial

7.2.9 TRAFFIC OPERATIONS

Britannia Avenue West is a Type ‘C’ arterial road with limited direct access. It is

recommended that the roadway be constructed as a four lane facility as it will likely be

required to carry not only the increased traffic volumes associated with the residential

development in the Dantonbury lands but increased traffic due to the new Highway 407

interchange at Simcoe Street North and the Minto and Riocan developments east and

north of the Dantonbury lands. A roundabout is proposed at the Britannia Avenue West

– Kentucky Derby Way intersection.


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It is anticipated that there will be stop control on Britannia Avenue West at Thornton

Road North. Other than roundabouts at Kentucky Derby Way and Future Windfields

Farm Drive, all side streets between Thornton Road North and Simcoe Street North will

be stop controlled at Britannia Avenue West.

The horizontal alignment of Britannia Avenue West between Thornton Road North and

Simcoe Street North is relatively curvilinear with radii near the minimum design range,

based on the design speed of 70 km/h. The proposed alignment will help to maintain

operating speeds near the posted 50 km/h speed limit. Based on the traffic analysis

undertaken, traffic operations on the subject section of Britannia Avenue West will be

satisfactory beyond the 2026 planning horizon year.

7.2.10 GEOMETRICS

The detailed design of the preferred alignment of Britannia Avenue West between

Thornton Road North and Simcoe Street North should be based on the design criteria

shown in Table 9.


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Table 9 - Design Criteria

Design Parameter Design Standard Proposed Standard

Roadway Classification Type ‘C’ Arterial Type ‘C’ Arterial

Design Speed 70 km/h 70 km/h

Minimum Stopping Sight Distance (m)

110 110

Equivalent Minimum K Factor

13 – 23 (crest)

12 (sag)

20 (crest)

15 (sag)

Minimum / Maximum Grades 0.5% / 5.0% 0.5% / 4.0%

Minimum Radius (m) 290 300

Maximum Superelevation 6.0% 2.5%

Number of Lanes 4 4

Lane Width (m) 3.30 3.30

Bike Lane Width (m) 1.2 1.15 + 0.3 buffer

Sidewalk Width (m) 1.5 1.5

Right-of-way Width (m) 30.0 30.0

The horizontal alignment of Britannia Avenue West between Thornton Road North and

Simcoe Street North has a series of curves (minimum 300m radius). It should be noted

that the proposed structure across the West Branch of Oshawa Creek had been

designed to be on tangent. It is important from constructability and long-term operations

and maintenance perspective that the bridge is on tangent.

The vertical alignment of Britannia Avenue West has been designed to balance the cut

and fill on either side of the bridge to reduce construction cost and to permit the

Contractor to work on either side of the bridge independently.


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7.2.11 MUNICIPAL SERVICES

Durham Region has requested to reserve corridors within the proposed Britannia

Avenue West right-of-way for the following services:

A local sanitary sewer (between 300 and 450 mm dia.) running along Britannia

Avenue West at various locations along the proposed alignment. This sewer will

not need to cross the environmentally sensitive lands forming the Oshawa Creek

Valley.

A local distribution watermain (likely 300 or 400 mm dia.) running along Britannia

Avenue West for the entire proposed alignment. This will be able to cross the

environmentally sensitive lands forming the Oshawa Creek Valley with

installation via trenchless technology to minimize disruption; however, an

easement with a minimum 6 m width will be required around the bridge structures

through this section.

These municipal servicing features are shown on the preliminary design drawings

presented in Appendix E.

7.2.12 STRUCTURE ACROSS OSHAWA CREEK WEST BRANCH

Based on the preliminary topographic survey data and the preliminary foundation

recommendations, it has been determined that a cost-effective structure can be

designed and built using the following span arrangement: 30m – 45m – 45m -45m -

30m. The proposed span arrangement will permit the use of either concrete or steel

girders. The choice of girders is typically based on current market conditions, which

presently favour concrete. A final decision on the girder type will be made during

detailed design.

The five span bridge will be a high level structure with the top of the roadway about 10m

above the valley floor. Minor excavation is required on the west side of the bridge but

the east side will need fill to be placed about 60m east of the east abutment. Wingwalls

will likely be required on the east side of the bridge; the first westerly span will be open

and there is not expected to be a need for wingwalls on the west side.

Given the high level nature of the bridge, it may be advantageous to use caisson

foundations for the piers. Caissons founded on the bedrock would provide the

necessary structural support and minimize the disruption within the Creek valley.


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Further discussions will be required with CLOCA during detailed design to obtain the

necessary permits to place fill within the floodplain, to develop appropriate construction

access measures, and to prepare erosion and sediment control plans and suitable

vegetation designs.

7.2.13 COST

A preliminary cost estimate has been prepared and is outlined in Appendix F.


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Table 10 - Potential Effects and Mitigation

Potential Effects Mitigation

Natural Environment

Clearly delineate vegetation protection zones on contract documents and in the field using sturdy fencing and use appropriate tree clearing practices including felling trees away from retained areas.

Develop an erosion control strategy to isolate construction zones from Permanent removal of vegetation within the proposed

retained vegetation using silt fencing. road footprint

Monitor and maintain silt fencing throughout the construction period Removal of vegetation will expose soils resulting in

potential erosion from these areas and sedimentation Re-vegetation immediately following construction with an appropriate within retained vegetation communities native seed mix and planting of native trees and shrubs to stabilize soils

Removal of several locations of Old Field Meadow. The landscape planting plan and road design will consider and mitigate Loss of Tree Numerous candidate Butternuts were found in these potential impacts to retained vegetation associated with salt spray and and Vegetation habitats. A Butternut Health Assessment should be other operational impacts Cover performed prior to any construction

Monitoring of survival of planted trees and re-planting will occur as Removal or impacts to a portion of Cultural Woodlands necessary.

and several other forest units. Impacts may include A tree inventory should be performed for any trees likely to be removed shading due to a new elevated crossing structure. A

or impacted by the crossing structure. detailed tree inventory should be undertaken once the final alignment has been designed. All trees which will Develop a plan for Butternut preservation, re-location, or compensation need to be removed or will be impacted should be as required inventoried

Monitoring required by any exemptions for Butternut under the ESA will be undertaken in accordance with O. Reg. 242/08.

Develop a planting plan and edge management plan in accordance with any specifications from CLOCA or the municipality for the compensation


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of any lost trees and to guard against edge damage due to new woodland areas.

Develop a detailed mitigation strategy to prevent indirect impacts to wetlands within the Oshawa Creek valley as a result of bridge

Grading and construction activities in the Oshawa construction Creek floodplain could alter drainage conditions resulting in changes to soil moisture levels Maintain hydrological connection of the W2 P.S.W. south under

Wetland Britannia Ave. W. via culverts and grading provisions and preserve

Impacts The wetland communities located within W2 may be existing vegetation communities where possible outside of the limits of

impacted if the hydrological connection from the P.S.W. grading are not maintained

The culvert size across the alignment will be at least 800 mm in diameter in order to maintain the hydrologic connection

Maintain hydrological connections to P.S.W.’s via culverts and grading Reduced water inputs to the Oshawa Creek Tributary provisions M.N.R.F.

P.S.W Designated Pre- and Post-construction wetland plots will be established in the

Area Impacts Impacts to the P.S.W. community located within W2 P.S.W. unit to judge if there are any hydrological changes due to the

road

Adhere to M.N.R.F.’s permissible in-water timing window

Install effective erosion and sediment control measures before starting In water works to realign and stabilize the watercourse Impacts to work where the proposed alignment crosses Oshawa Creek

Incorporate measures for managing water flowing into the work site West Branch Transport of deleterious substances (e.g. sediment, where required, as well as for water being pumped/diverted from the site fuel, etc.) associated with construction

Store waste/construction materials above the high water mark of nearby watercourses and remove all excess construction materials upon project


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completion

Carry out regular inspection and maintenance of erosion and sediment control measures

Remove non-biodegradable erosion and sediment control materials once the site is stabilized

Stabilize disturbed channel banks and riparian areas as soon as practicable following construction through re-vegetation with suitable native species

Machinery will arrive on site in a clean condition and be maintained free of fluid leaks, invasive species and noxious weeds

Whenever possible, machinery will be operated on land above the high water mark, in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the banks and bed of the watercourse

Washing, refueling and servicing machinery and storage of fuel and other materials for the machinery will be carried out in such a way as to prevent any deleterious substances from entering the water

Monitor the meandering of the Oshawa Creek West Branch to determine if channel stabilization is required at the road crossing location.

Stabilize disturbed channel banks and riparian areas as soon as In-filling or piping the watercourse where the proposed practicable following construction through re-vegetation with suitable

Impacts to alignment crosses native species Oshawa Creek Tributary Transport of deleterious substances (e.g. sediment, Incorporate measures for managing water flowing into the work site

fuel, etc.) associated with construction where required, as well as water being pumped/diverted from the site such that sediment is filtered out prior to the water entering a


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watercourse

Carry out regular inspection and maintenance of erosion and sediment control measures

Remove non-biodegradable erosion and sediment control materials once the site is stabilized

Store waste/construction materials above the high water mark of nearby watercourses and remove all excess construction materials upon project completion

Machinery will arrive on site in a clean condition and be maintained free of fluid leaks, invasive species and noxious weeds

Whenever possible, machinery will be operated on land above the high water mark, in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the banks and bed of the watercourse

Washing, refueling and servicing machinery and storage of fuel and other materials for the machinery will be carried out in such a way as to prevent any deleterious substances from entering the water

Provide nesting habitat in accordance with ESA requirements and Will remove nesting and foraging habitat for Barn consider species’ habitat requirements in the edge management plan.

Swallow

Incorporate road design features that minimize disturbances May introduce unsuitable habitat conditions through the

Wildlife Impacts creation of a new forest edge. Will fragment a natural, Minimize clearing of riparian vegetation and, when practicable, prune or sheltered valley and impede movement through this top vegetation instead of grubbing/uprooting valley. May cause Red-tailed Hawk to abandon the site

Appropriately screen any surface water intakes to prevent entrainment as nesting habitat. or impingement of fish

Loss of riparian vegetation to reduce shading and input Maintenance of flow and, where required, fish passage will be provided


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of allochthonous nutrience during construction

Loss/alteration of habitat due to in-water work or de- Monitoring of the annual use of nesting structures and changes in edge watering conditions will occur as necessary.

Reduction in habitat quality supporting fish community including American Eel

Creation of a new forest edge has the potential to adversely affect the remaining forest vegetation.

Development of a landscape planting plan for the West Branch of the Following clearing, the increased penetration of solar Oshawa Creek valleyland that includes provision for planting a dense radiation and wind can increase desiccation within the mix of native trees and shrubs at the cut edge following construction forest edge, adversely affecting the health of the

remaining trees and increase potential wind damage to Loss of Plantings will be designed in such a way as to recreate a natural forest retained trees Valleyland/Ripa edge, with a gradual transition from forest interior to shrubs and open

rian Vegetation field vegetation Exposed forest edges, particularly those along roadways, provide easy points of access for the Species should include native species present within the valley at the introduction of non-native plant species. Upon proposed crossing location and be designed to enhance wildlife becoming established, these species can spread movement under the new bridge structure throughout the valley system, adversely affecting native vegetation communities

To mitigate any impact on the geomorphology, the proposed

watercourse structures will be open bottom, with sufficient span to clear The road alignment will cross the West Branch of the the watercourse and, if feasible, permit the migration of the channel Floodplain Oshawa Creek and its Tributary W1. There is the (meandering) Management potential for the road alignment to obstruct flood flows,

and impact the geomorphology of the watercourses, and A detailed geomorphological assessment of the West Branch of the Geomorphology have an adverse impact on existing flood elevations Oshawa Creek will be completed during the detailed design of the bridge

upstream of the crossing. structure to confirm the location of piers and to identify any impacts of the bridge on the watercourse


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The coldwater fishery and quality of the receiving waters will be maintained by applying an appropriate level of stormwater control for all outfalls from the roadway corridor

The roadway development will have only a negligible impact on the existing hydrologic regime of the Oshawa Creek West Branch

An Imbrium Stormceptor unit (STC-2000), which provides 80% TSS removal and 93% annual runoff volume treatment is recommended. The treated water runoff from the Oil-Grit Separator (OGS) unit will then discharge to a vegetated swale, and eventually to Tributary W2. This treatment train approach will be applied to all areas of the roadway that

The West Branch Oshawa Creek supports a coldwater cannot be conveyed to a SWM facility.

fishery habitat that could be impacted by the quality of The SWM facilities proposed in the MESP will be constructed to provide

runoff from the roadway Stormwater the required water treatments for the development. According to the Management The increases in imperviousness should not impact proposed SWM pond locations of the MESP, the roadway runoff will be

existing hydrologic regimes with respect to water directed by a storm sewer system into Pond J located south of Britannia

budget/balance and runoff volumes Avenue for water treatment prior to discharge to the creek. The detailed design for Pond J will accommodate roadway drainage from this segment and will be discharged based on the aforementioned SWM criteria

Runoff upstream of the West Branch Oshawa Creek Bridge will be intercepted prior to the bridge deck. Bridge deck drainage will be collected by a trunk sewer system and treated by an OGS unit prior to discharge to a vegetated swale. As part of the detailed design phase, the OGS unit will be sized to achieve the 80% TSS removal rate and 90% runoff treatment rate required by MOECC. A vegetated swale downstream of the OGS unit will be designed and constructed to complete the runoff treatment train prior to discharge to the Creek


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A comprehensive water balance analysis was carried out for the MESP (Section A3.3.3) which established various mitigation measures to maintain local groundwater recharge and discharge for the development area to the extent possible. All vegetated swales will be designed with a flat grading (typically 2%), wherever feasible, to prolong the runoff travel time and maximize the opportunity for infiltration.

A minimum 80 m long bridge will be required to span the West Branch of Oshawa Creek in order to minimize its hydraulic impact. The proposed structure will be about 195 m. The minimum soffit elevation of the bridge will be the higher of the Regional Flood level or one metre above the 100-year design flood level, which will be determined during the detailed design. A detailed analysis of the bridge hydraulics will be completed during the detailed design of the structure to determine the impact of the

There will be two major and one minor watercourse final configuration of the bridge. Stream crossings along the preferred alignment. These

An 11 m span open footing structure will be required to minimize Crossings and crossings could potentially impact upstream flood levels

hydraulic impacts associated with the 100-year and Regional Storm Hydraulics and lead to local erosion of the watercourse if not

flows. A detailed analysis of the bridge hydraulics will be completed appropriately sized.

during the detailed design of the structure to determine the impact of the final configuration.

The minor crossing located west of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek to maintain flow connectivity south will be at least 800 mm in diameter. The size of the culvert will be evaluated during detailed design to consider the impact of its final configuration and any stormwater management measures.

There is a high potential to cause large magnitude, Construction, During construction, on-site sediment controls will be necessary and a short-term sediment export from the site. Operation and sediment and erosion control plan will be developed as part of the

Maintenance detailed design phase. The sediment and erosion control plan will The ongoing operation of the roadway will also


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(Surface Water) generate pollutants and contaminants that will need to identify measures to be installed prior to the start of construction that will be trapped and prevented from being transported to the remain in place through to the end of construction period, when the site downstream receiving waters. has been stabilized. All disturbed areas must be stabilized as quickly as

possible. Stabilization of disturbed areas will be accomplished by As part of winter maintenance, road salt (sodium sodding, seeding, mulching, hydroseeding and planting. Temporary

chloride) will likely be used as an anti-icing agent. The measures may employ the use of biodegradable erosion control use of salt on any road has the potential to impact blankets. The proposed stormwater management system for the surface water and fish habitats. roadway will address any long term pollutant and contaminant loadings

associated with the operation of the roadway.

Reducing salt use is the best way to protect aquatic habitat. As such, the City of Oshawa should:

o Determine the vulnerability of the Tributary of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek and West Branch of Oshawa Creek to salt impacts as part of their Salt Vulnerable area mapping;

o Review the Level of Service for the road to appropriately minimize salt use while meeting the primary goal of safety;

o Look at reducing salt use through enhanced weather forecasting, monitoring of pavement temperature, use direct liquid application, or use salt alternatives; and,

o Integrate the above into their existing Salt Management Plan.

In terms of design, salt-laden runoff water should be directed, if possible, to watercourses with high spring flows or the best dilution capacity.

The MOECC’s Central Region Permit to Take Water (PTTW) Coordinator will be contacted prior to detailed design to confirm approval


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requirements for water takings during construction and/or operation for groundwater or surface water extraction, and the active diversion of surface water flows by pumping in exceedance of 50,000 litres per day.


The Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment identified the potential for the recovery of archaeologically significant materials within undisturbed portions of the Study Area The Stage 2 AA will determine what mitigation measures (if any) are

required to avoid known archaeological resources Archaeology A Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment will be

Impacts completed during detailed design to identify the No excavation activities shall take place before the MTCS has confirmed presence of any archaeological resources. Based on that all archaeological licensing and technical review requirements are preliminary Stage 2 AA findings available during this EA met study for a portion of the impacted lands, no archaeological resources have been uncovered.

U.O.I.T / An intersection proposed between Thornton Road North and the West

Durham U.O.I.T / Durham College lands will be bisected by the Branch of the Oshawa Creek will provide access to U.O.I.T / Durham

College Master proposed Britannia Avenue West extension. College lands on either side of Britannia Avenue West.

Plan Impacts

No immediate or direct impacts or disruption to access A Traffic Management Plan will be developed as required to to residences located at 2170-2190 Thornton Road appropriately direct local traffic as works are undertaken at the proposed North during works to complete the proposed extension

Existing intersection with Thornton Road North at its intersection with Thornton Road North Residential Impacts If a roundabout is proposed for the future Thornton Road North – There should be no future direct impacts to existing

Britannia Avenue West intersection, driveway access to these properties residences located at 2170-2190 Thornton Road North, must be maintained as the preferred Britannia Avenue West alignment to

the west of Thornton Road North will be north of these


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properties

Discussions between the City of Oshawa and U.O.I.T. / Durham College Loss of

Loss of agricultural land to the west of the Oshawa to determine if farm accesses are to be provided temporarily so that the Agricultural

Creek West Branch lands can be farmed effectively or if access will only be provided off of Land

Thornton Road North

Traffic will result in increased levels of noise and Noise barriers will be installed around construction areas in close vibration in the immediate vicinity proximity to sensitive receptors

Noise and Vibration During construction at the proposed intersection Adhere to City of Oshawa By-law 112-82 during construction Impacts location, there may be temporary increased levels of

noise and vibration experienced by residences at 2170- Vibration monitoring for construction activities in close proximity to

2190 Thornton Road North existing structures and buried infrastructure is recommended

Traffic on Britannia Avenue West will affect local air quality in the immediate vicinity. Dust suppression methods (water or other suppressant as appropriate)

Air Quality and other dust control measures will be used in close proximity to dust

Impacts Dust will be generated for a short period of time during sensitive areas

grading and excavation


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8 Public and Stakeholder Engagement

Public (including stakeholders and interested parties) and government review agency

consultation is a key feature of the Municipal Class E.A. process. To this end, the study

team have ensured that the public and relevant agencies were both informed of the

study and given the opportunity to provide input in written and verbal form.

The consultation program was flexible and responsive to stakeholder and project needs.

It engaged participants in a meaningful process that sought to consider their knowledge

and advice.

A copy of all correspondence received from stakeholders is provided in Appendix D.

Please note that all identifying personal information has been redacted where

necessary to ensure the privacy of individual stakeholders as required under Canadian

law.

8.1 Notice of Study Commencement

The Notice of Study Commencement was first published on December 18, 2013 in the

Oshawa Express, and subsequently published on December 19, 2013 (Whitby This

Week) and December 26, 2013 (Oshawa This Week).

A mailing list for the study was developed to include local residents, relevant agencies

and municipal contacts. The Notice of Study Commencement was also delivered by

mail to these addresses.

The Notice of Study Commencement included information concerning the study

objectives, Study Area, details of the Municipal Class E.A. process being followed, and

contact details for study representatives.

8.2 Stakeholder Committee Meeting #1

A Stakeholder Committee was developed to include the following stakeholders:

Tribute Communities

Town of Whitby

City of Oshawa

Durham Region

CLOCA

U.O.I.T. / Durham College.


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The first Stakeholder Committee Meeting was held on February 13, 2014, at Oshawa

City Hall. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the study, present the E.A.

process and schedule, confirm the Problem/Opportunity Statement, and undertake a

preliminary analysis of the key issues, including confirmation of data requirements from

stakeholders.

8.3 Corridors Workshop

On March 6, 2014, a “Corridors Workshop” was held with stakeholders at Oshawa City

Hall. The purpose of this workshop was to present updated constraints mapping, and

undertake a preliminary assessment of the alternative corridors to Thickson Road North.

From this workshop, it was agreed that the South Corridor was the preferred corridor.


The second Stakeholder Committee Meeting was held at Oshawa City Hall on March

31, 2014. The draft P.I.C # 1 materials were presented for review and input, which

included discussion over the evaluation of alternative corridors.

8.5 Study Website

To coincide with Public Information Centre (P.I.C.) # 1, a study website was developed.

In addition to including information on the study itself, documentation, and contact

details, the website included an interactive survey designed to increase community

engagement. For the purposes of P.I.C. # 1, the survey focused on determining

attitudes towards the preliminary preferred corridor and evaluation criteria taken forward

to Phases 3 and 4 of the E.A.

For the purposes of P.I.C. #2, the survey element of the website was revised in order to

determine attitudes towards the preliminary preferred road alignment to Thornton Road

North. An interactive mapping tool was developed which allowed users to view the five

potential alignments, as well as key environmental features and constraints that were

integral to the evaluation process.

8.6 Public Information Centre 1

The Notice of P.I.C. # 1 was first published on March 19, 2014 in the Oshawa Express

and subsequently published in the Whitby and Oshawa editions of This Week on March

27, 2014. The Notice of P.I.C. # 1 was also distributed to contacts on the study mailing

list. The Notice of P.I.C. # 1 contained information on the study objectives, Study Area

and details of P.I.C. # 1.


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The purpose of P.I.C # 1 was to present existing and future conditions, the Problem and

Opportunity statement, and identification and evaluation of alternative corridors,

including the recommendation of a preliminary preferred corridor. Feedback was sought

on the preliminary preferred corridor and also the evaluation criteria taken forward to

Phases 3 and 4 of the E.A. This was provided verbally, via written comment forms, or by

using the interactive survey on the study website.

P.I.C. # 1 was held on April 3, 2014 at the Columbus Community Centre in Oshawa.

Approximately 50 people attended the P.I.C., including local residents, landowners,

representatives from local stakeholder groups and the Mayor of Oshawa.

Discussions generally focused on explaining the Municipal Class E.A. process, the need

for the proposed extension, and identifying potential impacts to specific properties

owned by attendees. No major objections or concerns were raised, and there was

strong support among attendees for proceeding with the preferred South Corridor.

Overall, feedback received from comment forms and the project website survey was

also in favour of the South Corridor.


On May 1, 2014, the third Stakeholder Committee Meeting was held at Oshawa City

Hall. This presented a summary of P.I.C. # 1 and ultimately provided confirmation that

the South Corridor was the preferred corridor to be taken forward for further analysis in

Phases 3 and 4.

8.8 Site Walk

On May 2, 2014, a site walk was held with representatives from MMM’s Project Team,

CLOCA, and the City of Oshawa. The purpose of the site walk was to focus on the

Study Area for Phases 3 and 4 to the east of Thornton Road North, in order to identify

specific environmental features and constraints. Key observations noted during the site

walk included confirmation of the P.S.W feature within the Study Area and the presence

of an older growth forested area. Additionally, a rainbow trout was observed in the

Oshawa Creek West Branch. As a result of the site walk, MMM was given specific

guidance from CLOCA concerning the relative importance of key features and

requirements for further studies. This information was directly used to inform the

evaluation of alternative design concepts.


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Stakeholder Committee Meeting # 4 was held on June 12, 2014 at Oshawa City Hall.

This meeting presented an update on technical studies undertaken to inform Phases 3

and 4, including analyses of the natural and socio-economic environment. The

evaluation criteria and preliminary evaluation of alternative design concepts was

presented for review and input. Draft P.I.C. # 2 materials were also presented for review

and input.

8.10 Public Information Centre 2

In advance of P.I.C. # 2, letters were sent to individual property owners on Thornton

Road North which were identified as properties which may be impacted either directly or

indirectly by alternative alignments. The purpose of this was to provide these property

owners with advance notification, before presenting the alternative alignments to the

general public.

The Notice of P.I.C. # 2 was first published on June 12, 2014 in local editions of This

Week and subsequently published in the Oshawa Express on June 18, 2014. The

Notice of P.I.C. # 2 was also distributed to contacts on the study mailing list. The Notice

of P.I.C. # 2 contained information on the study objectives, Study Area and details of

P.I.C. # 2.

The purpose of P.I.C # 2 was to review the work and recommendations from Phases 1

and 2, and present the preliminary preferred alignment. Feedback was sought on the

preliminary preferred alignment and also the evaluation process followed to determine

this. This was provided verbally, via written comment forms, or by using the interactive

survey on the study website.

P.I.C. # 2 was held on June 25, 2014 at the Columbus Community Centre in Oshawa.

Approximately 50 people attended the P.I.C., including local residents, landowners and

representatives from local stakeholder groups.

As with P.I.C. # 1, discussions generally focused on explaining the Municipal Class E.A.

process, the need for the proposed extension, and identifying potential impacts to

specific properties owned by attendees. No major objections or concerns were raised,

and there was strong support among attendees for proceeding with the preferred

alignment.

Overall, any feedback received from comment forms and the project website survey

was also in favour of the preferred alignment.


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8.11 Notice of Study Completion

The Notice of Study Completion was published on December 18, 2014 in the Whitby

and Oshawa editions of This Week, and subsequently, the December 24, 2014 editions

of Oshawa Express and Whitby This Week. The Notice of Study Completion was also

delivered to local residents, relevant agencies and municipal contacts. This Notice

marked the completion of the study and began the mandatory 30-day review period.

If concerns arise, which cannot be resolved regarding this project, a person or party

may request that the MOECC make an Order for the project to comply with Part II of the

EA Act (referred to as a Part II Order), which addresses individual Environmental

Assessments. Requests must be received by the Minister within 30 calendar days of the

Notice of Study Completion.


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9 Next Steps

9.1 Future commitments

Future commitments resulting from the work undertaken as part of this study include the

following:

Detailed design of the preferred alternative, including the bridge over the Oshawa

Creek West Branch.

A Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment will be completed in advance of detailed

design. Butternut Health Assessment to be performed prior to any construction. Monitoring required by any exemptions for Butternut under the ESA will be

undertaken in accordance with O. Reg. 242/08.

A detailed tree inventory will be undertaken during detailed design.

Monitoring of survival of planted trees and re-planting will occur as necessary.

Development of a sediment and erosion control strategy, landscape planting

plan, edge management plan, etc. to mitigate potential effects on the Natural

Environment.

Confirm the availability of alternate Barn Swallow nesting habitat in the meadows

and cropland surrounding the preferred alignment. Provide nesting habitat in

accordance with ESA requirements if necessary.

Monitoring of the annual use of nesting structures and changes in edge conditions will occur as necessary.

During detailed design, if any wells are discovered to be used domestically, any

affected well owners will continue to have water supplies of appropriate quality

and in adequate quantities during construction. Any work done on affected wells

or any replacement wells will be done pursuant to O. Reg. 903, Wells (pursuant

to the Ontario Water Resources Act).



Pre- and Post-construction wetland plots will be established in P.S.W. units to

judge if there are any hydrological changes due to the road.

A detailed geomorphological assessment of the West Branch of the Oshawa

Creek will be completed during the detailed design of the bridge structure to


watercourse.


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A detailed analysis of the bridge hydraulics will be completed during the detailed

design of the structure to determine the impact of the final configuration of the

bridge.

The minor crossing located west of the West Branch of Oshawa Creek to

maintain flow connectivity south will be at least 800 mm in diameter. The size of

the culvert will be evaluated during detailed design to consider the impact of its

final configuration and any stormwater management measures.

9.2 Permit and Approval Requirements

Permit and approvals will be confirmed during the detailed design stage and may

include the following:

Specific consultation is required with the M.O.E.C.C’s Environmental Assessment and Approvals Branch prior to detailed design to confirm any

Environmental Compliance Approval requirements for the proposed works.

The M.O.E.C.C.’s Central Region Permit to Take Water Coordinator will be consulted prior to detailed design to confirm any approval requirements for water

takings during construction or operation. This includes groundwater or surface

water extraction and the active diversion of surface water flows by pumping in

excess of 50,000 LFP.

Specific consultation with the M.N.R.F. is required to determine the permissible

in-water construction timing window and to develop site specific mitigation related

to American Eel including the potential requirement for permitting once the

proposed alignment and crossing structures are finalized.

An assessment of Butternuts for identification of hybrids and a Butternut Health

Assessment should be undertaken as soon as feasible to allow for time to obtain

a permit under the ESA if necessary as this process can take up to a year to

complete.

A permit from CLOCA under O. Reg. 42/06 will be required prior to construction.


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10 Bibliography

Archeoworks Inc. (2014): Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment for the Proposed

Westerly Extension of Britannia Avenue West from Proposed Windfields Farm

Drive to Thickson Road North Within Part of Lots 1 to 20, Concession 5 in the

former Geographic Township of Whitby and within Part of Lot 14, Concession 5

in the former Geographic Township of East Whitby, Historical County of Ontario,

Now the Town of Whitby and City of Oshawa, Regional Municipality of Durham

Ontario.

City of Oshawa (2011): City of Oshawa Official Plan (consolidated July 2013).

MMM Group Limited (2013): Master Environmental Servicing Plan (MESP) –

Windfields Planning Area – West of Simcoe Street.

Municipal Engineers Association (2000, as amended in 2007 & 2011): Municipal

Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) document.

Munroe, Kevin (2012): Dragonflies of North Virginia. Accessed on August 1, 2014

at

http://dragonfliesnva.com/My%20Documents/KevinPDF/pdf/identify/species/Twin

SpottedSpiketail-FINAL.pdf.

NHIC (Natural Heritage Information Centre) (2012): Biodiversity Explorer Website: [accessed May 2014].

Oldham, M.J., and S.R. Brinker (2009): Rare Vascular Plants of Ontario, Fourth

Edition. Natural Heritage Information Centre, Ontario Ministry of Natural

Resources.

Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (2014): Provincial Policy

Statement.

Region of Durham (2013): Durham Regional Official Plan (consolidation August

13, 2013).

Region of Durham (2013): Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) #128.

Region of Durham (2005): Transportation Master Plan (consolidation November

2005).

Town of Whitby (2010): Official Plan Amendment (OPA) 90.

Town of Whitby (2010): Transportation Master Plan Study.

Town of Whitby (2010): Town of Whitby Official Plan (consolidation December

2010).

Transportation Association of Canada (2012): Salt Management Guide

Unterman McPhail Associates (2014): Existing Conditions Report: Built Heritage

Resources & Cultural Heritage Landscapes.


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http://dragonfliesnva.com/My%20Documents/KevinPDF/pdf/identify/species/Twin

Varga, S., D. Leadbeater, J. Webber, J. Kaiser, B. Crins, J. Kamstra, D. Banville,

E. Ashley, G. Miller, C. Kingsley, C Jacobsen, K. Mewa, L. Tebby, E. Mosely,

and E. Zaje (2000): Distribution and Status of the Vascular Plants of the Greater

Toronto Area. Ontario. Ministry of Natural Resources, Aurora District.


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