A report from the Engineering Technologist III - Traffic and Transportation dated August 16, 2021, providing an update on the status of the second round of public engagement and the preferred design options for the 7th Avenue Greenway project was provided for the Committee’s information.
Brian Patterson, of Urban Systems, provided a presentation updating the Committee on the results of the second round of public engagement for the 7th Avenue Greenway project including:
- a summary of engagement opportunities and events, and related participation statistics;
- input findings regarding the rating of the proposed design; benefits of the greenway, support for pedestrian and traffic operation features, priorities of amenities along the greenway, and available options for the structure of the greenway;
- results of the project team options assessment;
- information regarding the BC Active Infrastructure Grant application; and
- next steps in the project.
Discussion ensued and the Committee asked questions whether any other traffic projects, such as traffic lights and crosswalks, in the immediate area of the greenway will be included in the cost of the project, and how the greenway will fit in with the update of the transportation master plan and the active transportation strategy.
Additionally, the Committee expressed concerns regarding the poor level of public survey participation, negative effect on street parking in certain areas, the overall cost of the project, and potential cost increases related to deferral of the project or missed grant opportunities.
The Committee expressed a desire for more information and familiarity with this project and other similar greenway projects.