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Port Weller East Vehicle Access Options Study

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Introduction:

The City of St. Catharines has retained Associated Engineering (Ont.) Ltd. (Associated) to complete the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) for the Port Weller East Access, which will include the assessment of another permanent access road in/out of the Port Weller East area. The project limits are shown in Figure 1-1.

Figure 1-1

The MCEA Study (the study) will follow the planning process for a Schedule ‘B’ project in accordance with the Municipal Engineers Association’s (MEA) Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA). As part of this process, a Project File Report (PFR) will be prepared, which will document the study process including an environmental conditions inventory, development and evaluation of alternatives, potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures, and the consultation process. Once finalized, the PFR will be available for public review and comment.

As with any MCEA process, this Study is as much about public/stakeholder relations as it is about technical solutions. The success of the study rests on the ability to solicit, process and respond to public and stakeholder input. This Communications and Consultation Plan outlines the goals, objectives, consultation requirements and process that will be followed for this study. The Consultation Plan is consistent with the intent and requirements of consultation in the context of the MEA MCEA.

Goals and objectives

Consultation is an integral component of the MCEA process and is essential to the successful completion of this project. The goal of the consultation process for this study is to facilitate effective two-way communication, to present and receive information, and to identify issues and concerns related to the study. Consultation must be inclusive, timely, and clear to be effective. At the same time, stakeholders must be confident that their participation will result in meaningful consultation and that they will be involved in the decision-making process.

The main objectives of this MCEA project are to meet the above-noted goals and the following which include:

  • Ensure minimum consultation requirements defined by the MCEA are met with respect to the public, governmental/ approval agencies and Indigenous communities;
    • Undertake consultation processes that provide the opportunity for all interested stakeholders and Indigenous communities to provide their input in meaningful ways; and
    • Ensure public input provided through consultation processes is considered in the decision-making processes.

Consultation with the public, stakeholders and Indigenous communities for this study will meet the requirements of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

Considering the three levels of engagement – inform, consult and collaborate – it is intended that during the course of this study, Associated, in collaboration with the City, will engage on the inform and consult level. Study information and updates will be provided on the City’s EngageSTC webpage to ensure interested parties are informed, while the public, stakeholders and Indigenous communities will be consulted at various points during the study to solicit input and feedback to be incorporated into the decision-making process.

Public Information Centre 2

The Second Public Information Centre will happen on Thursday, May. 23, 2024, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Grantham Lions Club at 732 Niagara Street.


Introduction:

The City of St. Catharines has retained Associated Engineering (Ont.) Ltd. (Associated) to complete the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) for the Port Weller East Access, which will include the assessment of another permanent access road in/out of the Port Weller East area. The project limits are shown in Figure 1-1.

Figure 1-1

The MCEA Study (the study) will follow the planning process for a Schedule ‘B’ project in accordance with the Municipal Engineers Association’s (MEA) Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA). As part of this process, a Project File Report (PFR) will be prepared, which will document the study process including an environmental conditions inventory, development and evaluation of alternatives, potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures, and the consultation process. Once finalized, the PFR will be available for public review and comment.

As with any MCEA process, this Study is as much about public/stakeholder relations as it is about technical solutions. The success of the study rests on the ability to solicit, process and respond to public and stakeholder input. This Communications and Consultation Plan outlines the goals, objectives, consultation requirements and process that will be followed for this study. The Consultation Plan is consistent with the intent and requirements of consultation in the context of the MEA MCEA.

Goals and objectives

Consultation is an integral component of the MCEA process and is essential to the successful completion of this project. The goal of the consultation process for this study is to facilitate effective two-way communication, to present and receive information, and to identify issues and concerns related to the study. Consultation must be inclusive, timely, and clear to be effective. At the same time, stakeholders must be confident that their participation will result in meaningful consultation and that they will be involved in the decision-making process.

The main objectives of this MCEA project are to meet the above-noted goals and the following which include:

  • Ensure minimum consultation requirements defined by the MCEA are met with respect to the public, governmental/ approval agencies and Indigenous communities;
    • Undertake consultation processes that provide the opportunity for all interested stakeholders and Indigenous communities to provide their input in meaningful ways; and
    • Ensure public input provided through consultation processes is considered in the decision-making processes.

Consultation with the public, stakeholders and Indigenous communities for this study will meet the requirements of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

Considering the three levels of engagement – inform, consult and collaborate – it is intended that during the course of this study, Associated, in collaboration with the City, will engage on the inform and consult level. Study information and updates will be provided on the City’s EngageSTC webpage to ensure interested parties are informed, while the public, stakeholders and Indigenous communities will be consulted at various points during the study to solicit input and feedback to be incorporated into the decision-making process.

Public Information Centre 2

The Second Public Information Centre will happen on Thursday, May. 23, 2024, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Grantham Lions Club at 732 Niagara Street.


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  • Share I am very interested in having a two way out if we have another disaster. I think we were lucky because it was winter did not have to worry about the bridge. We pay high taxes , and get less To weigh out, is for our safety, and our lives. Thank you, Simone Lacombe on Facebook Share I am very interested in having a two way out if we have another disaster. I think we were lucky because it was winter did not have to worry about the bridge. We pay high taxes , and get less To weigh out, is for our safety, and our lives. Thank you, Simone Lacombe on Twitter Share I am very interested in having a two way out if we have another disaster. I think we were lucky because it was winter did not have to worry about the bridge. We pay high taxes , and get less To weigh out, is for our safety, and our lives. Thank you, Simone Lacombe on Linkedin Email I am very interested in having a two way out if we have another disaster. I think we were lucky because it was winter did not have to worry about the bridge. We pay high taxes , and get less To weigh out, is for our safety, and our lives. Thank you, Simone Lacombe link

    I am very interested in having a two way out if we have another disaster. I think we were lucky because it was winter did not have to worry about the bridge. We pay high taxes , and get less To weigh out, is for our safety, and our lives. Thank you, Simone Lacombe

    Simone asked 7 months ago

    Thank you for your input Simone.   

  • Share I have two questions: 1. How long is this study expected to take and 2. how long there after will it take to begin applying the recommendations resulting from this study? on Facebook Share I have two questions: 1. How long is this study expected to take and 2. how long there after will it take to begin applying the recommendations resulting from this study? on Twitter Share I have two questions: 1. How long is this study expected to take and 2. how long there after will it take to begin applying the recommendations resulting from this study? on Linkedin Email I have two questions: 1. How long is this study expected to take and 2. how long there after will it take to begin applying the recommendations resulting from this study? link

    I have two questions: 1. How long is this study expected to take and 2. how long there after will it take to begin applying the recommendations resulting from this study?

    Massimo Giannetti asked 7 months ago

    The study is expected to be completed late spring 2024.  After the study is completed and a preferred alternative is selected, a consultant will need to retained so that they can complete the detailed design and then a contractor would have to be retained to complete the construction. Neither design nor construction would take very long.   Given this, and winter constraints, the project could start as early as spring 2024.  However, this will greatly depend on factors not known at this time such as property negations, utility relocations, budget approval etc. all of which could delay construction. 

  • Share Are stakeholders limited to only Port Weller East residents, business owners and their employees? Please identify who you consider to be stakeholders, whose input you will consider, thanks. on Facebook Share Are stakeholders limited to only Port Weller East residents, business owners and their employees? Please identify who you consider to be stakeholders, whose input you will consider, thanks. on Twitter Share Are stakeholders limited to only Port Weller East residents, business owners and their employees? Please identify who you consider to be stakeholders, whose input you will consider, thanks. on Linkedin Email Are stakeholders limited to only Port Weller East residents, business owners and their employees? Please identify who you consider to be stakeholders, whose input you will consider, thanks. link

    Are stakeholders limited to only Port Weller East residents, business owners and their employees? Please identify who you consider to be stakeholders, whose input you will consider, thanks.

    LindaCC asked 7 months ago

    We value all input that any citizen may have in regards to this project. That includes comments on this page or attendance at the PIC. Anybody who can contribute to the discussion is considered a stakeholder.   If you would like to be added to the contact list, please let us know via email, and we will add you so that you don't miss any emails or notices we send out.  

  • Share Having 2 way access to the Port Weller east neighbourhood is essential for safety reasons as been pointed out many times … I would like to emphasize the importance of this issue as we have a neighbourhood of seniors, young families, children !!! on Facebook Share Having 2 way access to the Port Weller east neighbourhood is essential for safety reasons as been pointed out many times … I would like to emphasize the importance of this issue as we have a neighbourhood of seniors, young families, children !!! on Twitter Share Having 2 way access to the Port Weller east neighbourhood is essential for safety reasons as been pointed out many times … I would like to emphasize the importance of this issue as we have a neighbourhood of seniors, young families, children !!! on Linkedin Email Having 2 way access to the Port Weller east neighbourhood is essential for safety reasons as been pointed out many times … I would like to emphasize the importance of this issue as we have a neighbourhood of seniors, young families, children !!! link

    Having 2 way access to the Port Weller east neighbourhood is essential for safety reasons as been pointed out many times … I would like to emphasize the importance of this issue as we have a neighbourhood of seniors, young families, children !!!

    Chris asked 7 months ago

    Thank you for your comment.

  • Share Looking forward to seeing/hearing ALL options, outside of Northrup (which is currently an alternate exit, which is what everyone has been asking for). Are traffic calming measures taken into consideration during this study or is that another part of the process? on Facebook Share Looking forward to seeing/hearing ALL options, outside of Northrup (which is currently an alternate exit, which is what everyone has been asking for). Are traffic calming measures taken into consideration during this study or is that another part of the process? on Twitter Share Looking forward to seeing/hearing ALL options, outside of Northrup (which is currently an alternate exit, which is what everyone has been asking for). Are traffic calming measures taken into consideration during this study or is that another part of the process? on Linkedin Email Looking forward to seeing/hearing ALL options, outside of Northrup (which is currently an alternate exit, which is what everyone has been asking for). Are traffic calming measures taken into consideration during this study or is that another part of the process? link

    Looking forward to seeing/hearing ALL options, outside of Northrup (which is currently an alternate exit, which is what everyone has been asking for). Are traffic calming measures taken into consideration during this study or is that another part of the process?

    Dweller asked 7 months ago

    This study is just looking at at new access options.  Traffic calming is not with the scope of this study.  Please note that alternatives will not be developed until after the first PIC . The first PIC is to introduce stakeholders to the project team and provide a chance for us to gather information from the stakeholders.  

  • Share I, along with many residents of Port Weller East are gravely concerned about the proposal for Ssonic Products 2010 Inc. located at 20 Keefer Street to “operate a waste disposal site for the temporary storage and processing of liquid industrial waste, liquid hazardous, hazardous and non-hazardous waste”, I question if anyone reading this comment actually lived in Port Weller East when Ssonic Products had their explosion in 2022. We were just waking and felt our house shake. When we looked outside there continued to be one explosion after another resulting in billowing smoke coming towards us. The police went door to door to request us to evacuate. We were told not to use Broadway Avenue...but, rather Northrup Crescent (which we are fighting to secure a 2nd route out). One innocent life was lost that day, due to the chemicals at the Ssonic Products facility. We remained evacuated until approx. 5 p.m. that day. The smell from the exploded chemicals was somewhat frightening and for months we were advised not to let our pets drink any outdoor water. Why should a company be allowed to store chemicals when we have so many concerns including: *The safety risk to people and the environment if this type of chemical facility is to be permitted within 200+ metres of residential homes * 84 Fire Prevention related charges for multiple fire violations has been issued against Ssonic Products and the directors of the company (for the 2022 explosion). Obviously Ssonic Products did not adhere to safety standards, which resulted in the 2022 explosion and a fatality. *So after their fatal explosion, Ssonic Products now wants to operate storing hazardous materials in shipping containers??? * Should Ssonic Products even be able to suggest such storage when the MOE, Ministry of Labour and the Fire Marshal of Ontario reports are still pending?? This is a residential community with obvious concerns in regards to chemical storage in close vicinity to our homes. We should be able to express and have a say in the matter of whether Sonic Products 2010 Inc, should be permitted to store or have chemicals on the property. on Facebook Share I, along with many residents of Port Weller East are gravely concerned about the proposal for Ssonic Products 2010 Inc. located at 20 Keefer Street to “operate a waste disposal site for the temporary storage and processing of liquid industrial waste, liquid hazardous, hazardous and non-hazardous waste”, I question if anyone reading this comment actually lived in Port Weller East when Ssonic Products had their explosion in 2022. We were just waking and felt our house shake. When we looked outside there continued to be one explosion after another resulting in billowing smoke coming towards us. The police went door to door to request us to evacuate. We were told not to use Broadway Avenue...but, rather Northrup Crescent (which we are fighting to secure a 2nd route out). One innocent life was lost that day, due to the chemicals at the Ssonic Products facility. We remained evacuated until approx. 5 p.m. that day. The smell from the exploded chemicals was somewhat frightening and for months we were advised not to let our pets drink any outdoor water. Why should a company be allowed to store chemicals when we have so many concerns including: *The safety risk to people and the environment if this type of chemical facility is to be permitted within 200+ metres of residential homes * 84 Fire Prevention related charges for multiple fire violations has been issued against Ssonic Products and the directors of the company (for the 2022 explosion). Obviously Ssonic Products did not adhere to safety standards, which resulted in the 2022 explosion and a fatality. *So after their fatal explosion, Ssonic Products now wants to operate storing hazardous materials in shipping containers??? * Should Ssonic Products even be able to suggest such storage when the MOE, Ministry of Labour and the Fire Marshal of Ontario reports are still pending?? This is a residential community with obvious concerns in regards to chemical storage in close vicinity to our homes. We should be able to express and have a say in the matter of whether Sonic Products 2010 Inc, should be permitted to store or have chemicals on the property. on Twitter Share I, along with many residents of Port Weller East are gravely concerned about the proposal for Ssonic Products 2010 Inc. located at 20 Keefer Street to “operate a waste disposal site for the temporary storage and processing of liquid industrial waste, liquid hazardous, hazardous and non-hazardous waste”, I question if anyone reading this comment actually lived in Port Weller East when Ssonic Products had their explosion in 2022. We were just waking and felt our house shake. When we looked outside there continued to be one explosion after another resulting in billowing smoke coming towards us. The police went door to door to request us to evacuate. We were told not to use Broadway Avenue...but, rather Northrup Crescent (which we are fighting to secure a 2nd route out). One innocent life was lost that day, due to the chemicals at the Ssonic Products facility. We remained evacuated until approx. 5 p.m. that day. The smell from the exploded chemicals was somewhat frightening and for months we were advised not to let our pets drink any outdoor water. Why should a company be allowed to store chemicals when we have so many concerns including: *The safety risk to people and the environment if this type of chemical facility is to be permitted within 200+ metres of residential homes * 84 Fire Prevention related charges for multiple fire violations has been issued against Ssonic Products and the directors of the company (for the 2022 explosion). Obviously Ssonic Products did not adhere to safety standards, which resulted in the 2022 explosion and a fatality. *So after their fatal explosion, Ssonic Products now wants to operate storing hazardous materials in shipping containers??? * Should Ssonic Products even be able to suggest such storage when the MOE, Ministry of Labour and the Fire Marshal of Ontario reports are still pending?? This is a residential community with obvious concerns in regards to chemical storage in close vicinity to our homes. We should be able to express and have a say in the matter of whether Sonic Products 2010 Inc, should be permitted to store or have chemicals on the property. on Linkedin Email I, along with many residents of Port Weller East are gravely concerned about the proposal for Ssonic Products 2010 Inc. located at 20 Keefer Street to “operate a waste disposal site for the temporary storage and processing of liquid industrial waste, liquid hazardous, hazardous and non-hazardous waste”, I question if anyone reading this comment actually lived in Port Weller East when Ssonic Products had their explosion in 2022. We were just waking and felt our house shake. When we looked outside there continued to be one explosion after another resulting in billowing smoke coming towards us. The police went door to door to request us to evacuate. We were told not to use Broadway Avenue...but, rather Northrup Crescent (which we are fighting to secure a 2nd route out). One innocent life was lost that day, due to the chemicals at the Ssonic Products facility. We remained evacuated until approx. 5 p.m. that day. The smell from the exploded chemicals was somewhat frightening and for months we were advised not to let our pets drink any outdoor water. Why should a company be allowed to store chemicals when we have so many concerns including: *The safety risk to people and the environment if this type of chemical facility is to be permitted within 200+ metres of residential homes * 84 Fire Prevention related charges for multiple fire violations has been issued against Ssonic Products and the directors of the company (for the 2022 explosion). Obviously Ssonic Products did not adhere to safety standards, which resulted in the 2022 explosion and a fatality. *So after their fatal explosion, Ssonic Products now wants to operate storing hazardous materials in shipping containers??? * Should Ssonic Products even be able to suggest such storage when the MOE, Ministry of Labour and the Fire Marshal of Ontario reports are still pending?? This is a residential community with obvious concerns in regards to chemical storage in close vicinity to our homes. We should be able to express and have a say in the matter of whether Sonic Products 2010 Inc, should be permitted to store or have chemicals on the property. link

    I, along with many residents of Port Weller East are gravely concerned about the proposal for Ssonic Products 2010 Inc. located at 20 Keefer Street to “operate a waste disposal site for the temporary storage and processing of liquid industrial waste, liquid hazardous, hazardous and non-hazardous waste”, I question if anyone reading this comment actually lived in Port Weller East when Ssonic Products had their explosion in 2022. We were just waking and felt our house shake. When we looked outside there continued to be one explosion after another resulting in billowing smoke coming towards us. The police went door to door to request us to evacuate. We were told not to use Broadway Avenue...but, rather Northrup Crescent (which we are fighting to secure a 2nd route out). One innocent life was lost that day, due to the chemicals at the Ssonic Products facility. We remained evacuated until approx. 5 p.m. that day. The smell from the exploded chemicals was somewhat frightening and for months we were advised not to let our pets drink any outdoor water. Why should a company be allowed to store chemicals when we have so many concerns including: *The safety risk to people and the environment if this type of chemical facility is to be permitted within 200+ metres of residential homes * 84 Fire Prevention related charges for multiple fire violations has been issued against Ssonic Products and the directors of the company (for the 2022 explosion). Obviously Ssonic Products did not adhere to safety standards, which resulted in the 2022 explosion and a fatality. *So after their fatal explosion, Ssonic Products now wants to operate storing hazardous materials in shipping containers??? * Should Ssonic Products even be able to suggest such storage when the MOE, Ministry of Labour and the Fire Marshal of Ontario reports are still pending?? This is a residential community with obvious concerns in regards to chemical storage in close vicinity to our homes. We should be able to express and have a say in the matter of whether Sonic Products 2010 Inc, should be permitted to store or have chemicals on the property.

    B Freeman asked 7 months ago

    The reopening of Ssonix does not relate to this study as it pertains to developing and evaluating options for a secondary access in the Port Weller East Neighbourhood.  

  • Share I have been asked to forward a letter I sent to the Mayor and 5 Counsellors in March 2023. I have not had the opportunity to review actual St. Catharines numbers. The numbers below were indicative of the information available early this year. Start: As Port Weller East residents and as a City of St. Catharines’ taxpayer, I would like to ask the Mayor and Councillors a few questions. Port Weller residents have just lived through a horrific and deadly explosion on Keefer Road. The one evacuation route on Seaway Haulage Road was blocked by fire crews, and only the construction road at Parkside onto Northrup Crescent allowed residents (including us) to escape. Why is Council delaying/refusing to purchase the necessary land to create a permanent roadway out for the residents of Port Weller East? There are 970+ residents in 431 households in Port Weller East, paying over $1,500,000 in property taxes annually. Yet we see very little in City services for that money. We have NO fire station, NO Paramedic station, NO public transit, NO schools, NO pools, NO daycare, NO community center or facilities, NO Library. Yet, for every $100 of property tax we pay, $11.12 goes to Transit, $22.72 goes to Fire Protection, $7.47 to Community, Recreation & Culture, $4.72 to libraries. (source: St Catharines 2023 Approved Operating Budget, January 16, 2023). St Catharines’ 2023 Capital Budget totals $71,924,580. Of the 45 ward specific Linear Capital Projects by Ward (Sch AD), only 11 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none were for Port Weller East. Of the 46 Facilities Projects by Ward (Sch AE), only 6 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none for Port Weller East. Meaning, of the $72 million being spent on capital projects in St Catharines in 2023, not a dime was being spent in Port Weller East. Budgetary constraint arguments by Councillors are a non-starter. This is a safety issue, and Port Weller East residents have already been short changed for their tax dollars. It is unacceptable that hundreds of residents would not have a second egress route in case of an emergency, or that emergency services would not have a second route into the neighbourhood. We continue to have industry in close proximity to our homes, so risks remain. If the Fire Code requires that we have a second egress from our house, we should require the same for our neighbourhood. We are asking that City Council and the Mayor recognize the safety risk to the 971 residents of Port Weller East and act swiftly to ensure a second egress is created for us. Barbara Freeman 39 Lakeside Drive St. Catharines, ON Bmflalonde@gmail.com. End. on Facebook Share I have been asked to forward a letter I sent to the Mayor and 5 Counsellors in March 2023. I have not had the opportunity to review actual St. Catharines numbers. The numbers below were indicative of the information available early this year. Start: As Port Weller East residents and as a City of St. Catharines’ taxpayer, I would like to ask the Mayor and Councillors a few questions. Port Weller residents have just lived through a horrific and deadly explosion on Keefer Road. The one evacuation route on Seaway Haulage Road was blocked by fire crews, and only the construction road at Parkside onto Northrup Crescent allowed residents (including us) to escape. Why is Council delaying/refusing to purchase the necessary land to create a permanent roadway out for the residents of Port Weller East? There are 970+ residents in 431 households in Port Weller East, paying over $1,500,000 in property taxes annually. Yet we see very little in City services for that money. We have NO fire station, NO Paramedic station, NO public transit, NO schools, NO pools, NO daycare, NO community center or facilities, NO Library. Yet, for every $100 of property tax we pay, $11.12 goes to Transit, $22.72 goes to Fire Protection, $7.47 to Community, Recreation & Culture, $4.72 to libraries. (source: St Catharines 2023 Approved Operating Budget, January 16, 2023). St Catharines’ 2023 Capital Budget totals $71,924,580. Of the 45 ward specific Linear Capital Projects by Ward (Sch AD), only 11 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none were for Port Weller East. Of the 46 Facilities Projects by Ward (Sch AE), only 6 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none for Port Weller East. Meaning, of the $72 million being spent on capital projects in St Catharines in 2023, not a dime was being spent in Port Weller East. Budgetary constraint arguments by Councillors are a non-starter. This is a safety issue, and Port Weller East residents have already been short changed for their tax dollars. It is unacceptable that hundreds of residents would not have a second egress route in case of an emergency, or that emergency services would not have a second route into the neighbourhood. We continue to have industry in close proximity to our homes, so risks remain. If the Fire Code requires that we have a second egress from our house, we should require the same for our neighbourhood. We are asking that City Council and the Mayor recognize the safety risk to the 971 residents of Port Weller East and act swiftly to ensure a second egress is created for us. Barbara Freeman 39 Lakeside Drive St. Catharines, ON Bmflalonde@gmail.com. End. on Twitter Share I have been asked to forward a letter I sent to the Mayor and 5 Counsellors in March 2023. I have not had the opportunity to review actual St. Catharines numbers. The numbers below were indicative of the information available early this year. Start: As Port Weller East residents and as a City of St. Catharines’ taxpayer, I would like to ask the Mayor and Councillors a few questions. Port Weller residents have just lived through a horrific and deadly explosion on Keefer Road. The one evacuation route on Seaway Haulage Road was blocked by fire crews, and only the construction road at Parkside onto Northrup Crescent allowed residents (including us) to escape. Why is Council delaying/refusing to purchase the necessary land to create a permanent roadway out for the residents of Port Weller East? There are 970+ residents in 431 households in Port Weller East, paying over $1,500,000 in property taxes annually. Yet we see very little in City services for that money. We have NO fire station, NO Paramedic station, NO public transit, NO schools, NO pools, NO daycare, NO community center or facilities, NO Library. Yet, for every $100 of property tax we pay, $11.12 goes to Transit, $22.72 goes to Fire Protection, $7.47 to Community, Recreation & Culture, $4.72 to libraries. (source: St Catharines 2023 Approved Operating Budget, January 16, 2023). St Catharines’ 2023 Capital Budget totals $71,924,580. Of the 45 ward specific Linear Capital Projects by Ward (Sch AD), only 11 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none were for Port Weller East. Of the 46 Facilities Projects by Ward (Sch AE), only 6 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none for Port Weller East. Meaning, of the $72 million being spent on capital projects in St Catharines in 2023, not a dime was being spent in Port Weller East. Budgetary constraint arguments by Councillors are a non-starter. This is a safety issue, and Port Weller East residents have already been short changed for their tax dollars. It is unacceptable that hundreds of residents would not have a second egress route in case of an emergency, or that emergency services would not have a second route into the neighbourhood. We continue to have industry in close proximity to our homes, so risks remain. If the Fire Code requires that we have a second egress from our house, we should require the same for our neighbourhood. We are asking that City Council and the Mayor recognize the safety risk to the 971 residents of Port Weller East and act swiftly to ensure a second egress is created for us. Barbara Freeman 39 Lakeside Drive St. Catharines, ON Bmflalonde@gmail.com. End. on Linkedin Email I have been asked to forward a letter I sent to the Mayor and 5 Counsellors in March 2023. I have not had the opportunity to review actual St. Catharines numbers. The numbers below were indicative of the information available early this year. Start: As Port Weller East residents and as a City of St. Catharines’ taxpayer, I would like to ask the Mayor and Councillors a few questions. Port Weller residents have just lived through a horrific and deadly explosion on Keefer Road. The one evacuation route on Seaway Haulage Road was blocked by fire crews, and only the construction road at Parkside onto Northrup Crescent allowed residents (including us) to escape. Why is Council delaying/refusing to purchase the necessary land to create a permanent roadway out for the residents of Port Weller East? There are 970+ residents in 431 households in Port Weller East, paying over $1,500,000 in property taxes annually. Yet we see very little in City services for that money. We have NO fire station, NO Paramedic station, NO public transit, NO schools, NO pools, NO daycare, NO community center or facilities, NO Library. Yet, for every $100 of property tax we pay, $11.12 goes to Transit, $22.72 goes to Fire Protection, $7.47 to Community, Recreation & Culture, $4.72 to libraries. (source: St Catharines 2023 Approved Operating Budget, January 16, 2023). St Catharines’ 2023 Capital Budget totals $71,924,580. Of the 45 ward specific Linear Capital Projects by Ward (Sch AD), only 11 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none were for Port Weller East. Of the 46 Facilities Projects by Ward (Sch AE), only 6 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none for Port Weller East. Meaning, of the $72 million being spent on capital projects in St Catharines in 2023, not a dime was being spent in Port Weller East. Budgetary constraint arguments by Councillors are a non-starter. This is a safety issue, and Port Weller East residents have already been short changed for their tax dollars. It is unacceptable that hundreds of residents would not have a second egress route in case of an emergency, or that emergency services would not have a second route into the neighbourhood. We continue to have industry in close proximity to our homes, so risks remain. If the Fire Code requires that we have a second egress from our house, we should require the same for our neighbourhood. We are asking that City Council and the Mayor recognize the safety risk to the 971 residents of Port Weller East and act swiftly to ensure a second egress is created for us. Barbara Freeman 39 Lakeside Drive St. Catharines, ON Bmflalonde@gmail.com. End. link

    I have been asked to forward a letter I sent to the Mayor and 5 Counsellors in March 2023. I have not had the opportunity to review actual St. Catharines numbers. The numbers below were indicative of the information available early this year. Start: As Port Weller East residents and as a City of St. Catharines’ taxpayer, I would like to ask the Mayor and Councillors a few questions. Port Weller residents have just lived through a horrific and deadly explosion on Keefer Road. The one evacuation route on Seaway Haulage Road was blocked by fire crews, and only the construction road at Parkside onto Northrup Crescent allowed residents (including us) to escape. Why is Council delaying/refusing to purchase the necessary land to create a permanent roadway out for the residents of Port Weller East? There are 970+ residents in 431 households in Port Weller East, paying over $1,500,000 in property taxes annually. Yet we see very little in City services for that money. We have NO fire station, NO Paramedic station, NO public transit, NO schools, NO pools, NO daycare, NO community center or facilities, NO Library. Yet, for every $100 of property tax we pay, $11.12 goes to Transit, $22.72 goes to Fire Protection, $7.47 to Community, Recreation & Culture, $4.72 to libraries. (source: St Catharines 2023 Approved Operating Budget, January 16, 2023). St Catharines’ 2023 Capital Budget totals $71,924,580. Of the 45 ward specific Linear Capital Projects by Ward (Sch AD), only 11 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none were for Port Weller East. Of the 46 Facilities Projects by Ward (Sch AE), only 6 were earmarked for Ward 5, and none for Port Weller East. Meaning, of the $72 million being spent on capital projects in St Catharines in 2023, not a dime was being spent in Port Weller East. Budgetary constraint arguments by Councillors are a non-starter. This is a safety issue, and Port Weller East residents have already been short changed for their tax dollars. It is unacceptable that hundreds of residents would not have a second egress route in case of an emergency, or that emergency services would not have a second route into the neighbourhood. We continue to have industry in close proximity to our homes, so risks remain. If the Fire Code requires that we have a second egress from our house, we should require the same for our neighbourhood. We are asking that City Council and the Mayor recognize the safety risk to the 971 residents of Port Weller East and act swiftly to ensure a second egress is created for us. Barbara Freeman 39 Lakeside Drive St. Catharines, ON Bmflalonde@gmail.com. End.

    B Freeman asked 7 months ago

    Thank you for your interest in this study.

    This Environmental Assessment is being conducted to develop and explore various options for a second access into the Port Weller East Neighbourhood.  The study will consider all available options for additional access including but not limited to location, preliminary design, drainage, servicing, utility relocation, property requirements, environmental impacts etc.   The City of St. Catharines has purchased the vacant lot that the temporary construction access currently resides.  Please note however that this does not imply that a new permanent access will be built here.   This land was purchased so that the option would remain available while the study is conducted.  Once all alternatives have been developed and assessed the preferred alternative will be presented as part of the project file report and available for review and comment before finalization.  In regard to your question about tax allocation, this is not within the scope of this project and it is suggested that any questions you have on matters not directly attributed to this study be directed to your local representative(s).   

  • Share I have been a resident of Port Weller East for 20 years and was shocked to learn of a chemical plant located in the neighborhood (of course I’m referring to the Sonnex explosion) not only am I’m concerned about emergency access to the area I have and many other residents have complained about the frequency of all 3 lock bridges being raised at the same time! I realize this is a Federal issue but the City needs to address this with the Federal government not only is this a massive inconvenience but in case of an emergency this could prove fatal. Why not have emergency services available on this side of Lock1? on Facebook Share I have been a resident of Port Weller East for 20 years and was shocked to learn of a chemical plant located in the neighborhood (of course I’m referring to the Sonnex explosion) not only am I’m concerned about emergency access to the area I have and many other residents have complained about the frequency of all 3 lock bridges being raised at the same time! I realize this is a Federal issue but the City needs to address this with the Federal government not only is this a massive inconvenience but in case of an emergency this could prove fatal. Why not have emergency services available on this side of Lock1? on Twitter Share I have been a resident of Port Weller East for 20 years and was shocked to learn of a chemical plant located in the neighborhood (of course I’m referring to the Sonnex explosion) not only am I’m concerned about emergency access to the area I have and many other residents have complained about the frequency of all 3 lock bridges being raised at the same time! I realize this is a Federal issue but the City needs to address this with the Federal government not only is this a massive inconvenience but in case of an emergency this could prove fatal. Why not have emergency services available on this side of Lock1? on Linkedin Email I have been a resident of Port Weller East for 20 years and was shocked to learn of a chemical plant located in the neighborhood (of course I’m referring to the Sonnex explosion) not only am I’m concerned about emergency access to the area I have and many other residents have complained about the frequency of all 3 lock bridges being raised at the same time! I realize this is a Federal issue but the City needs to address this with the Federal government not only is this a massive inconvenience but in case of an emergency this could prove fatal. Why not have emergency services available on this side of Lock1? link

    I have been a resident of Port Weller East for 20 years and was shocked to learn of a chemical plant located in the neighborhood (of course I’m referring to the Sonnex explosion) not only am I’m concerned about emergency access to the area I have and many other residents have complained about the frequency of all 3 lock bridges being raised at the same time! I realize this is a Federal issue but the City needs to address this with the Federal government not only is this a massive inconvenience but in case of an emergency this could prove fatal. Why not have emergency services available on this side of Lock1?

    Port Weller East asked 7 months ago

    This study is being conducted to evaluate the various options available to provide a new access into / out of the Port Weller East community.  This scope has been selected so that the study can be completed in a timely and efficient manner. Emergency services and Seaway operations are not within the scope of this project.  

  • Share Hello, Port Weller has been increasingly more residential. We need more access to our neighbourhood. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be very difficult to get access to our own homes. on Facebook Share Hello, Port Weller has been increasingly more residential. We need more access to our neighbourhood. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be very difficult to get access to our own homes. on Twitter Share Hello, Port Weller has been increasingly more residential. We need more access to our neighbourhood. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be very difficult to get access to our own homes. on Linkedin Email Hello, Port Weller has been increasingly more residential. We need more access to our neighbourhood. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be very difficult to get access to our own homes. link

    Hello, Port Weller has been increasingly more residential. We need more access to our neighbourhood. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be very difficult to get access to our own homes.

    Cush asked 7 months ago

    Thank for for your comment.

    Several residents have noted instances of accidents on Lakeshore that block access into the neighbourhood for several hours. Any accident data received will be reviewed and included within the final report and used when evaluating the various alternatives.

  • Share Port Weller East has become increasingly more residential in the 20 years I have lived there. We need more access to our neighbourhood, especially in emergencies but even for daily use. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be challenging to get access to our own homes. I would also mention the number of accidents that happen on Lakeshore Road and Read Road. Is there anything that could be done at that intersection to make it safer and easier to navigate such as a 4-way stop? Perhaps that would also help with the speeding that happens there. on Facebook Share Port Weller East has become increasingly more residential in the 20 years I have lived there. We need more access to our neighbourhood, especially in emergencies but even for daily use. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be challenging to get access to our own homes. I would also mention the number of accidents that happen on Lakeshore Road and Read Road. Is there anything that could be done at that intersection to make it safer and easier to navigate such as a 4-way stop? Perhaps that would also help with the speeding that happens there. on Twitter Share Port Weller East has become increasingly more residential in the 20 years I have lived there. We need more access to our neighbourhood, especially in emergencies but even for daily use. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be challenging to get access to our own homes. I would also mention the number of accidents that happen on Lakeshore Road and Read Road. Is there anything that could be done at that intersection to make it safer and easier to navigate such as a 4-way stop? Perhaps that would also help with the speeding that happens there. on Linkedin Email Port Weller East has become increasingly more residential in the 20 years I have lived there. We need more access to our neighbourhood, especially in emergencies but even for daily use. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be challenging to get access to our own homes. I would also mention the number of accidents that happen on Lakeshore Road and Read Road. Is there anything that could be done at that intersection to make it safer and easier to navigate such as a 4-way stop? Perhaps that would also help with the speeding that happens there. link

    Port Weller East has become increasingly more residential in the 20 years I have lived there. We need more access to our neighbourhood, especially in emergencies but even for daily use. Making Northrup Crescent two-way would help ease some of the issues. Another issue that has been mentioned is the fact that when there are emergencies it can be challenging to get access to our own homes. I would also mention the number of accidents that happen on Lakeshore Road and Read Road. Is there anything that could be done at that intersection to make it safer and easier to navigate such as a 4-way stop? Perhaps that would also help with the speeding that happens there.

    Cush asked 7 months ago

    Thank you for your interest in this project.

    As part of the Environmental Assessment Process, we will be looking at any and all options that improve access into the neighbourhood including the option of converting the temporary construction access at Northrup Crescent into a two-way road.  

    Accidents on Lakeshore will be reviewed.  Records of these accidents have been requested from the Region of Niagara and any information provided will become part of the project file report.  As Lakeshore Road is a Regional Road, an analysis of the intersections at Lakeshore are not within the scope of this assessment.  The Region of Niagara is however a stakeholder in this assessment and will be included in the EA process and final conclusions.  

Page last updated: 08 May 2024, 01:34 PM