Third Crossing - West Shore Landscaping and Site Restoration

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Consultation has concluded

Aerial view of a river and shoreline, with a bridge under construction. Trees and buildings are visible in the background.

Learn more and ask questions about upcoming work on the west shore of the Third Crossing!

View the final landscaping and site restoration work that is planned for the west shore of the Third Crossing! This work will restore areas in the project site that were required to support the bridge construction. 

The scheduled work includes: 
- Planting new trees; 
- Building new and enhanced accessible connections to promote active transportation and healthy living; 
- Re-vegetating impacted areas; and, 
- Restoring shoreline.

The team is incorporating Context Sensitive Design (CSD) elements, which aim to make the design of the bridge fit with, or respond to, its’ environment. It includes re-naturalization of shoreland areas with the use of native plants and low-maintenance landscaping materials.

Learn more about the considerations given to the landscaping and site restoration plans, and timelines for future work scheduled for the intersection of John Counter Blvd. and Montreal St. Review the work in more detail.

Please share your questions with the Third Crossing project team in the Q&A section below.

Aerial view of a river and shoreline, with a bridge under construction. Trees and buildings are visible in the background.

Learn more and ask questions about upcoming work on the west shore of the Third Crossing!

View the final landscaping and site restoration work that is planned for the west shore of the Third Crossing! This work will restore areas in the project site that were required to support the bridge construction. 

The scheduled work includes: 
- Planting new trees; 
- Building new and enhanced accessible connections to promote active transportation and healthy living; 
- Re-vegetating impacted areas; and, 
- Restoring shoreline.

The team is incorporating Context Sensitive Design (CSD) elements, which aim to make the design of the bridge fit with, or respond to, its’ environment. It includes re-naturalization of shoreland areas with the use of native plants and low-maintenance landscaping materials.

Learn more about the considerations given to the landscaping and site restoration plans, and timelines for future work scheduled for the intersection of John Counter Blvd. and Montreal St. Review the work in more detail.

Please share your questions with the Third Crossing project team in the Q&A section below.

Consultation has concluded

Do you have questions about the landscaping and site restoration works planned for the west shore? We invite you to review the work in more detail, and to share your questions below with City staff. We are accepting questions until Aug. 22.

  • Share Would there be room to place Sir John A MacDonald's statue on either side of the new crossing? He was a visionary & would be proud of this project but not the shabby way the city has treated his legacy. on Facebook Share Would there be room to place Sir John A MacDonald's statue on either side of the new crossing? He was a visionary & would be proud of this project but not the shabby way the city has treated his legacy. on Twitter Share Would there be room to place Sir John A MacDonald's statue on either side of the new crossing? He was a visionary & would be proud of this project but not the shabby way the city has treated his legacy. on Linkedin Email Would there be room to place Sir John A MacDonald's statue on either side of the new crossing? He was a visionary & would be proud of this project but not the shabby way the city has treated his legacy. link

    Would there be room to place Sir John A MacDonald's statue on either side of the new crossing? He was a visionary & would be proud of this project but not the shabby way the city has treated his legacy.

    John Sanger asked over 1 year ago

    Hello, there are currently no plans to place the statue at the bridge. As the statue will no longer be placed at Cataraqui Cemetery, staff will be reviewing feedback received through previous community consultations and bring forward a proposal to Council. Any approach is likely to require additional community consultation and include a variety of options for the statue's eventual placement.

    heritage
    heritage
  • Share Why does the City of Kingston go overboard when it comes to planting trees and shrubbery around projects such as this? More than a thousand trees is excessive; but, then, the City has used contractors who are stupid enough to continue to plant trees long after it is certain that the trees will die due to frost damage. Instead of planting grass seed and allowing rain to start their germination, I have seen contractors laying rolls of sod followed by water trucks with someone soaking the grass. This is wasteful of tax dollars. Lastly, I guess that none of your project team cares much about birds. This bridge project could have been enhanced by the inclusion of osprey nesting platforms at each end of the bridge. Then, again, none of the project team probably knows of a contractor who'd erect these at great expense to the City! on Facebook Share Why does the City of Kingston go overboard when it comes to planting trees and shrubbery around projects such as this? More than a thousand trees is excessive; but, then, the City has used contractors who are stupid enough to continue to plant trees long after it is certain that the trees will die due to frost damage. Instead of planting grass seed and allowing rain to start their germination, I have seen contractors laying rolls of sod followed by water trucks with someone soaking the grass. This is wasteful of tax dollars. Lastly, I guess that none of your project team cares much about birds. This bridge project could have been enhanced by the inclusion of osprey nesting platforms at each end of the bridge. Then, again, none of the project team probably knows of a contractor who'd erect these at great expense to the City! on Twitter Share Why does the City of Kingston go overboard when it comes to planting trees and shrubbery around projects such as this? More than a thousand trees is excessive; but, then, the City has used contractors who are stupid enough to continue to plant trees long after it is certain that the trees will die due to frost damage. Instead of planting grass seed and allowing rain to start their germination, I have seen contractors laying rolls of sod followed by water trucks with someone soaking the grass. This is wasteful of tax dollars. Lastly, I guess that none of your project team cares much about birds. This bridge project could have been enhanced by the inclusion of osprey nesting platforms at each end of the bridge. Then, again, none of the project team probably knows of a contractor who'd erect these at great expense to the City! on Linkedin Email Why does the City of Kingston go overboard when it comes to planting trees and shrubbery around projects such as this? More than a thousand trees is excessive; but, then, the City has used contractors who are stupid enough to continue to plant trees long after it is certain that the trees will die due to frost damage. Instead of planting grass seed and allowing rain to start their germination, I have seen contractors laying rolls of sod followed by water trucks with someone soaking the grass. This is wasteful of tax dollars. Lastly, I guess that none of your project team cares much about birds. This bridge project could have been enhanced by the inclusion of osprey nesting platforms at each end of the bridge. Then, again, none of the project team probably knows of a contractor who'd erect these at great expense to the City! link

    Why does the City of Kingston go overboard when it comes to planting trees and shrubbery around projects such as this? More than a thousand trees is excessive; but, then, the City has used contractors who are stupid enough to continue to plant trees long after it is certain that the trees will die due to frost damage. Instead of planting grass seed and allowing rain to start their germination, I have seen contractors laying rolls of sod followed by water trucks with someone soaking the grass. This is wasteful of tax dollars. Lastly, I guess that none of your project team cares much about birds. This bridge project could have been enhanced by the inclusion of osprey nesting platforms at each end of the bridge. Then, again, none of the project team probably knows of a contractor who'd erect these at great expense to the City!

    Fortean asked over 1 year ago

    The creation of wildlife habitat formed part of the restoration works required by the City to satisfy permit conditions.  Tree re-plantings are an important restoration tool to help offset the amount of trees that were removed due to construction.  The installation of osprey nesting platforms is not part of the current requirements however we can add this idea to the list that is part of the future adjacent projects for consideration.

  • Share I see there is no mention of replacing the boat launch that was there. There was one where the bridge is as well as a private one at the north end of Music marina. There will not be a launch on this side of Bell Park. It's a long way from the launch at Cataraqui St., at least 2 miles to get to this part of the lake. That's not fair for the people that live in the north end. on Facebook Share I see there is no mention of replacing the boat launch that was there. There was one where the bridge is as well as a private one at the north end of Music marina. There will not be a launch on this side of Bell Park. It's a long way from the launch at Cataraqui St., at least 2 miles to get to this part of the lake. That's not fair for the people that live in the north end. on Twitter Share I see there is no mention of replacing the boat launch that was there. There was one where the bridge is as well as a private one at the north end of Music marina. There will not be a launch on this side of Bell Park. It's a long way from the launch at Cataraqui St., at least 2 miles to get to this part of the lake. That's not fair for the people that live in the north end. on Linkedin Email I see there is no mention of replacing the boat launch that was there. There was one where the bridge is as well as a private one at the north end of Music marina. There will not be a launch on this side of Bell Park. It's a long way from the launch at Cataraqui St., at least 2 miles to get to this part of the lake. That's not fair for the people that live in the north end. link

    I see there is no mention of replacing the boat launch that was there. There was one where the bridge is as well as a private one at the north end of Music marina. There will not be a launch on this side of Bell Park. It's a long way from the launch at Cataraqui St., at least 2 miles to get to this part of the lake. That's not fair for the people that live in the north end.

    Don Helsby asked over 1 year ago

    As mentioned in other responses, the former boat launch is not scheduled for replacement as part of the completion of the bridge.  The City needs to evaluate whether a replacement boat launch has merit for installation in this area or nearby.

  • Share When will see the plans for the East Shore of the third crossing? I am particularly interested in plans for an integrated pathway network on the east shore. on Facebook Share When will see the plans for the East Shore of the third crossing? I am particularly interested in plans for an integrated pathway network on the east shore. on Twitter Share When will see the plans for the East Shore of the third crossing? I am particularly interested in plans for an integrated pathway network on the east shore. on Linkedin Email When will see the plans for the East Shore of the third crossing? I am particularly interested in plans for an integrated pathway network on the east shore. link

    When will see the plans for the East Shore of the third crossing? I am particularly interested in plans for an integrated pathway network on the east shore.

    helgadrausch@gmail.com asked over 1 year ago

    The City launched a Get Involved event in August 2021.  Please see the info with the following link that illustrates the east side pathway system.  https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/third-crossing-east-shore

  • Share Are there any plans to have a path way on the west side of the bridge that goes along the waterfront connecting the bridge to belle park and the KP Trail? I think having a off road route to downtown from the bridge would encourage more people to ride their bikes as the bike lane on Montreal street doesn't feel safe. on Facebook Share Are there any plans to have a path way on the west side of the bridge that goes along the waterfront connecting the bridge to belle park and the KP Trail? I think having a off road route to downtown from the bridge would encourage more people to ride their bikes as the bike lane on Montreal street doesn't feel safe. on Twitter Share Are there any plans to have a path way on the west side of the bridge that goes along the waterfront connecting the bridge to belle park and the KP Trail? I think having a off road route to downtown from the bridge would encourage more people to ride their bikes as the bike lane on Montreal street doesn't feel safe. on Linkedin Email Are there any plans to have a path way on the west side of the bridge that goes along the waterfront connecting the bridge to belle park and the KP Trail? I think having a off road route to downtown from the bridge would encourage more people to ride their bikes as the bike lane on Montreal street doesn't feel safe. link

    Are there any plans to have a path way on the west side of the bridge that goes along the waterfront connecting the bridge to belle park and the KP Trail? I think having a off road route to downtown from the bridge would encourage more people to ride their bikes as the bike lane on Montreal street doesn't feel safe.

    CityLover asked over 1 year ago

    Yes, there are plans to continue building the waterfront trails to connect the bridge's pathway system to Belle Park to the south.  The timing of this planning effort is grouped with the adjacent project #6  (slide 6) and is part of a future design and engagement process starting 2023.

  • Share As I have brought up in previous consultations, but my questions were always deferred to a later time when the landscaping plan will be in place - The location of the bridge on the west side USED TO BE A BOAT LAUNCH/PARKING/ WINTER SKATING location. It was a place you could launch a boat/canoe/kayak and leave your car parked in the summer. In the winter, it was a place to access the river for skating - even businesses like Trailhead Kingston would organize community ice skates in this location. We have now been WITHOUT access to the water during the construction for over 2 years and I DO NOT SEE a boat launch/water access/parking in your landscaping plan. WHY? on Facebook Share As I have brought up in previous consultations, but my questions were always deferred to a later time when the landscaping plan will be in place - The location of the bridge on the west side USED TO BE A BOAT LAUNCH/PARKING/ WINTER SKATING location. It was a place you could launch a boat/canoe/kayak and leave your car parked in the summer. In the winter, it was a place to access the river for skating - even businesses like Trailhead Kingston would organize community ice skates in this location. We have now been WITHOUT access to the water during the construction for over 2 years and I DO NOT SEE a boat launch/water access/parking in your landscaping plan. WHY? on Twitter Share As I have brought up in previous consultations, but my questions were always deferred to a later time when the landscaping plan will be in place - The location of the bridge on the west side USED TO BE A BOAT LAUNCH/PARKING/ WINTER SKATING location. It was a place you could launch a boat/canoe/kayak and leave your car parked in the summer. In the winter, it was a place to access the river for skating - even businesses like Trailhead Kingston would organize community ice skates in this location. We have now been WITHOUT access to the water during the construction for over 2 years and I DO NOT SEE a boat launch/water access/parking in your landscaping plan. WHY? on Linkedin Email As I have brought up in previous consultations, but my questions were always deferred to a later time when the landscaping plan will be in place - The location of the bridge on the west side USED TO BE A BOAT LAUNCH/PARKING/ WINTER SKATING location. It was a place you could launch a boat/canoe/kayak and leave your car parked in the summer. In the winter, it was a place to access the river for skating - even businesses like Trailhead Kingston would organize community ice skates in this location. We have now been WITHOUT access to the water during the construction for over 2 years and I DO NOT SEE a boat launch/water access/parking in your landscaping plan. WHY? link

    As I have brought up in previous consultations, but my questions were always deferred to a later time when the landscaping plan will be in place - The location of the bridge on the west side USED TO BE A BOAT LAUNCH/PARKING/ WINTER SKATING location. It was a place you could launch a boat/canoe/kayak and leave your car parked in the summer. In the winter, it was a place to access the river for skating - even businesses like Trailhead Kingston would organize community ice skates in this location. We have now been WITHOUT access to the water during the construction for over 2 years and I DO NOT SEE a boat launch/water access/parking in your landscaping plan. WHY?

    sharpsugar asked over 1 year ago

    The primary purpose of John Counter-Gore Road connection was for a bridge to connect the City over the river.  This location has been known for over 30 years and was verified in 2012 during the environmental assessment.  The former boat launch could have been considered a bonus use up until a bridge would be constructed.  There is limited space in the John Counter roadway to fit major amenities auxiliary to the bridge and roadway such as a motor boat launching location.  An opportunity for launching smaller watercraft such as kayaks and canoes is possible on the former Music Marina site once the land and shoreline establishes itself beforehand.  The City has a boat launch on Cataraqui Street that provides access while the City evaluates whether another boat launch has merit for installation.  Please see slide 6 that lists the adjacent project status for more info on timing.

  • Share I’d like to see lilacs throughout. There is little management besides pruning and has very nice greenery. on Facebook Share I’d like to see lilacs throughout. There is little management besides pruning and has very nice greenery. on Twitter Share I’d like to see lilacs throughout. There is little management besides pruning and has very nice greenery. on Linkedin Email I’d like to see lilacs throughout. There is little management besides pruning and has very nice greenery. link

    I’d like to see lilacs throughout. There is little management besides pruning and has very nice greenery.

    Michelle Wilson asked over 1 year ago

    Although minimal maintenance of plants is preferred, the current planting plans do not include lilacs which were not listed in the native plantings list that was prepared for the project.  The main goal was to reintroduce plantings that were native to this region and can thrive in the Cataraqui rivershed with minimal maintenance.

  • Share Would it be possible to have water access to launch paddle boards and kayaks? Will there be free parking for cars? on Facebook Share Would it be possible to have water access to launch paddle boards and kayaks? Will there be free parking for cars? on Twitter Share Would it be possible to have water access to launch paddle boards and kayaks? Will there be free parking for cars? on Linkedin Email Would it be possible to have water access to launch paddle boards and kayaks? Will there be free parking for cars? link

    Would it be possible to have water access to launch paddle boards and kayaks? Will there be free parking for cars?

    Paul Martin asked over 1 year ago

    The project team has received this request for launching small watercraft many times over the years and is on the consideration list as a future opportunity.

    The Third Crossing is essentially a road construction project, not a park-type project with park-type amenities.  

    The future projects slide illustrates projects that are adjacent to the Third Crossing. The planning of these adjacent future projects is where the consideration for water access will be looked into.  Having the Third Crossing in service will provide additional info on the water access question such as traffic patterns, parking, trail access distance from parking, west shore or east shore, etc. which will be added to the evaluation criteria.   

    There will be future public engagement opportunities for when the adjacent future projects are underway.  These water access suggestions will remain on the consideration list till then.

  • Share Why was the boat launch omitted from current plans, given that one was available to use before construction began? on Facebook Share Why was the boat launch omitted from current plans, given that one was available to use before construction began? on Twitter Share Why was the boat launch omitted from current plans, given that one was available to use before construction began? on Linkedin Email Why was the boat launch omitted from current plans, given that one was available to use before construction began? link

    Why was the boat launch omitted from current plans, given that one was available to use before construction began?

    Adrienne asked over 1 year ago

    The decommissioning of the former boat launch was analyzed during the environmental assessment of 2012 and relocating the boat launch would be part of future planning works.  The former boat launch was located at the dead end of John Counter Blvd which is being replaced by the bridge itself.  The former boat launch was located next to an active Music Marina for many years and the marina is no longer in operation.  The new purpose of the right-of-way is to connect John Counter to Gore Road via the new bridge.

  • Share Thank you for the opportunity to review the Site Restoration and landscaping overview. At this time, the document remains high-level so it’s difficult to ask more detailed questions. From what we have however, our questions are as follows: • Will shoreline restoration extend to existing shoreline park that serves RiverPark community? • The bridge currently attracts interest of many folks wanting to see it being built and will likely extend once its used to foot traffic. The original designs presented identifies areas for parking for those wanting to use the bridge on foot. Is this still in the plans so as not to infringe on the private parking available to residents of RiverPark? • How were the public interests represented in the technical restoration and site landscaping. For example, was our elected counsellor consulted? • The design appears that the multi-use path on the bridge does not connect with any other of the trails, as such – will connecting these trails become a priority and include connecting with Waterfront Trail currently approved as part of the Belle Park Master Plan? • What area will be naturalized vs those that will be landscaped with native plants? • Are the adjacent projects described, funded and approved and do the dates imply start and end dates? • As the depth of the River changes from year to year, how below the surface will the “clean rock just below the surrounding riverbed elevation i.e. making it even more shallow than it is now or protruding during low river levels. • As the disintegrated/yellow turbidity curtain remains on the north side of the bridge near the West side and continues to leach pieces of Styrofoam into the river, what are the ongoing clean-up plans to ensure further leaching does not occur and clean-up continues post bridge completion? • With the northwest parking lot remaining unfinished until the Montreal Street project is completed, what efforts will be made to prevent garbage being dropped by workers and keeping the temporary pathway usable e.g. multiple complaints have been logged with city to date and promises made but not kept to install garbage cans for workers (ask Mayor to confirm promises made) • Will park benches include garbage cans, i.e., encouraging people to stop and rest on benches also encourages the disposal of coffee cups and garbage? Engagement implies an opportunity to provide ideas and influence change, this opportunity is labelled “engagement” but described as information only. As such, lastly - is there still opportunity to affect change based on the questions and input received or are all aspects as presented considered final? on Facebook Share Thank you for the opportunity to review the Site Restoration and landscaping overview. At this time, the document remains high-level so it’s difficult to ask more detailed questions. From what we have however, our questions are as follows: • Will shoreline restoration extend to existing shoreline park that serves RiverPark community? • The bridge currently attracts interest of many folks wanting to see it being built and will likely extend once its used to foot traffic. The original designs presented identifies areas for parking for those wanting to use the bridge on foot. Is this still in the plans so as not to infringe on the private parking available to residents of RiverPark? • How were the public interests represented in the technical restoration and site landscaping. For example, was our elected counsellor consulted? • The design appears that the multi-use path on the bridge does not connect with any other of the trails, as such – will connecting these trails become a priority and include connecting with Waterfront Trail currently approved as part of the Belle Park Master Plan? • What area will be naturalized vs those that will be landscaped with native plants? • Are the adjacent projects described, funded and approved and do the dates imply start and end dates? • As the depth of the River changes from year to year, how below the surface will the “clean rock just below the surrounding riverbed elevation i.e. making it even more shallow than it is now or protruding during low river levels. • As the disintegrated/yellow turbidity curtain remains on the north side of the bridge near the West side and continues to leach pieces of Styrofoam into the river, what are the ongoing clean-up plans to ensure further leaching does not occur and clean-up continues post bridge completion? • With the northwest parking lot remaining unfinished until the Montreal Street project is completed, what efforts will be made to prevent garbage being dropped by workers and keeping the temporary pathway usable e.g. multiple complaints have been logged with city to date and promises made but not kept to install garbage cans for workers (ask Mayor to confirm promises made) • Will park benches include garbage cans, i.e., encouraging people to stop and rest on benches also encourages the disposal of coffee cups and garbage? Engagement implies an opportunity to provide ideas and influence change, this opportunity is labelled “engagement” but described as information only. As such, lastly - is there still opportunity to affect change based on the questions and input received or are all aspects as presented considered final? on Twitter Share Thank you for the opportunity to review the Site Restoration and landscaping overview. At this time, the document remains high-level so it’s difficult to ask more detailed questions. From what we have however, our questions are as follows: • Will shoreline restoration extend to existing shoreline park that serves RiverPark community? • The bridge currently attracts interest of many folks wanting to see it being built and will likely extend once its used to foot traffic. The original designs presented identifies areas for parking for those wanting to use the bridge on foot. Is this still in the plans so as not to infringe on the private parking available to residents of RiverPark? • How were the public interests represented in the technical restoration and site landscaping. For example, was our elected counsellor consulted? • The design appears that the multi-use path on the bridge does not connect with any other of the trails, as such – will connecting these trails become a priority and include connecting with Waterfront Trail currently approved as part of the Belle Park Master Plan? • What area will be naturalized vs those that will be landscaped with native plants? • Are the adjacent projects described, funded and approved and do the dates imply start and end dates? • As the depth of the River changes from year to year, how below the surface will the “clean rock just below the surrounding riverbed elevation i.e. making it even more shallow than it is now or protruding during low river levels. • As the disintegrated/yellow turbidity curtain remains on the north side of the bridge near the West side and continues to leach pieces of Styrofoam into the river, what are the ongoing clean-up plans to ensure further leaching does not occur and clean-up continues post bridge completion? • With the northwest parking lot remaining unfinished until the Montreal Street project is completed, what efforts will be made to prevent garbage being dropped by workers and keeping the temporary pathway usable e.g. multiple complaints have been logged with city to date and promises made but not kept to install garbage cans for workers (ask Mayor to confirm promises made) • Will park benches include garbage cans, i.e., encouraging people to stop and rest on benches also encourages the disposal of coffee cups and garbage? Engagement implies an opportunity to provide ideas and influence change, this opportunity is labelled “engagement” but described as information only. As such, lastly - is there still opportunity to affect change based on the questions and input received or are all aspects as presented considered final? on Linkedin Email Thank you for the opportunity to review the Site Restoration and landscaping overview. At this time, the document remains high-level so it’s difficult to ask more detailed questions. From what we have however, our questions are as follows: • Will shoreline restoration extend to existing shoreline park that serves RiverPark community? • The bridge currently attracts interest of many folks wanting to see it being built and will likely extend once its used to foot traffic. The original designs presented identifies areas for parking for those wanting to use the bridge on foot. Is this still in the plans so as not to infringe on the private parking available to residents of RiverPark? • How were the public interests represented in the technical restoration and site landscaping. For example, was our elected counsellor consulted? • The design appears that the multi-use path on the bridge does not connect with any other of the trails, as such – will connecting these trails become a priority and include connecting with Waterfront Trail currently approved as part of the Belle Park Master Plan? • What area will be naturalized vs those that will be landscaped with native plants? • Are the adjacent projects described, funded and approved and do the dates imply start and end dates? • As the depth of the River changes from year to year, how below the surface will the “clean rock just below the surrounding riverbed elevation i.e. making it even more shallow than it is now or protruding during low river levels. • As the disintegrated/yellow turbidity curtain remains on the north side of the bridge near the West side and continues to leach pieces of Styrofoam into the river, what are the ongoing clean-up plans to ensure further leaching does not occur and clean-up continues post bridge completion? • With the northwest parking lot remaining unfinished until the Montreal Street project is completed, what efforts will be made to prevent garbage being dropped by workers and keeping the temporary pathway usable e.g. multiple complaints have been logged with city to date and promises made but not kept to install garbage cans for workers (ask Mayor to confirm promises made) • Will park benches include garbage cans, i.e., encouraging people to stop and rest on benches also encourages the disposal of coffee cups and garbage? Engagement implies an opportunity to provide ideas and influence change, this opportunity is labelled “engagement” but described as information only. As such, lastly - is there still opportunity to affect change based on the questions and input received or are all aspects as presented considered final? link

    Thank you for the opportunity to review the Site Restoration and landscaping overview. At this time, the document remains high-level so it’s difficult to ask more detailed questions. From what we have however, our questions are as follows: • Will shoreline restoration extend to existing shoreline park that serves RiverPark community? • The bridge currently attracts interest of many folks wanting to see it being built and will likely extend once its used to foot traffic. The original designs presented identifies areas for parking for those wanting to use the bridge on foot. Is this still in the plans so as not to infringe on the private parking available to residents of RiverPark? • How were the public interests represented in the technical restoration and site landscaping. For example, was our elected counsellor consulted? • The design appears that the multi-use path on the bridge does not connect with any other of the trails, as such – will connecting these trails become a priority and include connecting with Waterfront Trail currently approved as part of the Belle Park Master Plan? • What area will be naturalized vs those that will be landscaped with native plants? • Are the adjacent projects described, funded and approved and do the dates imply start and end dates? • As the depth of the River changes from year to year, how below the surface will the “clean rock just below the surrounding riverbed elevation i.e. making it even more shallow than it is now or protruding during low river levels. • As the disintegrated/yellow turbidity curtain remains on the north side of the bridge near the West side and continues to leach pieces of Styrofoam into the river, what are the ongoing clean-up plans to ensure further leaching does not occur and clean-up continues post bridge completion? • With the northwest parking lot remaining unfinished until the Montreal Street project is completed, what efforts will be made to prevent garbage being dropped by workers and keeping the temporary pathway usable e.g. multiple complaints have been logged with city to date and promises made but not kept to install garbage cans for workers (ask Mayor to confirm promises made) • Will park benches include garbage cans, i.e., encouraging people to stop and rest on benches also encourages the disposal of coffee cups and garbage? Engagement implies an opportunity to provide ideas and influence change, this opportunity is labelled “engagement” but described as information only. As such, lastly - is there still opportunity to affect change based on the questions and input received or are all aspects as presented considered final?

    BarryNiles asked over 1 year ago

    We appreciate your patience on providing a response to your questions.  The shoreline restoration north of the bridge will get close to the existing chain link fence but will not connect to it as part of the bridge work.  It may have a connection during the waterfront pathway planning and installation work in the future.  

    Parking availability has been expressed by the public for many years.  There is no parking spaces being proposed on the west shore as part of the current construction work.  There was an idea during the 2017 preliminary design to consider parking on the south side of John Counter east of Ascot (former 612 John Counter).   Parking on the west shore is a future amenity that needs to be evaluated by the City as part of slide 6's adjacent parking review and may be competing with pathway system that can also go through 612 JCB.  

    The planning documents of importance is the Waterfront Master Plan which proposes a connected pathway system along Kingston's waterfront.  There are many projects proposed and will be built out as opportunity becomes more practical.  The bridge will change the patterns of public use in the west shore and is a catalyst to advancing the Belle Park connection trail system and future planning and engagement will occur.  Most areas that were impacted by construction will be layered with topsoil and planted with grass or trees/shrubs.  Whatever wasn't touched, is essentially the naturalized area free to continue its growth.  

    The adjacent projects have some funding in place to commence the planning processes. The dates are proposed as start/end dates as a starting point to get the ball rolling.

    The bathymetry of the riverbed will be restored to target elevations that are below the elevations prior to in-water work starting.  The former causeway footprint will leave behind a shallow depression that will fill with riverbed material and revegetate over time.  The City is continuing with our foam cleanup process and also has a post-construction monitoring program that will be in effect as part of our permit conditions.

    The site will transition from contractor stewardship to the City once the project is complete.  The public works group have pathway maintenance included in their work plans to keep the vegetation growth in check.  Garbage receptacle locations can be better placed once the bridge is open to see where they can be most effective.   The Get Involved process is a useful tool to solicit ideas and feedback from the public. This particular engagement for the west shore landscaping was simpler in planning since it abides by permit conditions and is located in a roadway compared to more complex locations such as parks and greenspaces.  We welcome feedback and suggestions from the public and look to accommodate where it's possible or to defer it to the appropriate planning window.