Dafne Gokcen, Senior Planner of Innovative Planning Solutions attended to present information about the proposed plans.
Also in attendance was Tahmineh Feyzabi, Planner of Innovative Planning Solutions and Alphonso Yau, Senior land Development Designer, Mason Homes.
There was discussion about whether trail connections in higher density areas have been considered, the planners will take this question back to the engineers for consideration.
Regarding the “residential” block on the map, Committee encouraged the planners to work with the property owners.
Walkability and snow storage was discussed and a plan for sidewalks throughout the neighbourhood. Daphne noted that sidewalks will be included.
Park space was discussed and Dafne explained that there is a plan for a park in the open space to the top right to the plan. It was noted that there is a bridge to Chapman park.
Consideration toward accessibility and accessible homes were encouraged given the demographics of the Township. Daphne added that a commitment to housing typology cannot be made at this point, but that the developers are aware of the current demographics and are considering same.
Contrasting character features to the neighbourhood was also discussed and encouraged.
The use of bungalows/single-level housing were encouraged given the shortage of this type of housing and the accessibility of this type of housing.
Parking was discussed and Daphne explained double car parking would be the preferred option.
Alphonso Yau of Mason Homes addressed Committee noting there are a wide variety of home styles offered and the majority of those styles have a 2-car garage.
Alternative traffic slowing methods were encouraged, e.g. bump outs, curved streets.
Plans for a convenience store were inquired about and Alphonso explained that there are currently no plans to accommodate a convenience store in the area.
Environmental protections for the creek were inquired about. Daphne noted the 30m setback from the creek recommended by the Ecologist was adhered to or exceeded, and was done in collaboration with conservation authority.
Additional parking was discussed in regard to the row housing having adequate space and it was noted that the lots are 11m.
It was asked whether the 30m setback is in floodplain and Daphne noted this would be highlighted in the re-submission.
Regarding urban boundary requirements, it was inquired as to what the bylaw requires. Elaine Leung explained that the site-specific features are being reviewed and will be included in the re-submission.
Innovative Planning Solutions is encouraged to review traffic by-law compliance and the Vision Zero initiative which has been adopted with the Region.
Laneways in the yellow highlighted area of the Townhomes on the draft plan of the subdivision were of a significant concern and discouraged by Councillor Snooks.