Natalie Wennyk, Engineering Intern, Transportation Services, provided an update on upcoming items for ATAC, including a terms of reference update, noting that particular attention will be paid to ensuring that the Region's Integrated Mobility Plan is incorporated into the terms of reference.
She also provided an update on lighting for the Bearinger Road Multi-Use Path project that was discussed at the December ATAC Meeting, noting that illumination for the path will be provided by streetlights, as this meets the current Illuminating Engineering Society of North America's standards. She further noted that these standards may not necessarily align with the Region's Strategic Plan.
Darryl Spencer, Manager, Transportation Engineering, discussed the Region's illumination policy that was adopted in 2007 and noted that historically the policy has been focused on roadways and does not encompass active transportation trails. Transportation Staff are looking at updating this policy this year and will be seeking subsequent Council approval for an updated policy.
D. Spencer further noted that active transportation facilities are typically owned by the area municipality that they fall within, which could complicate updating the illumination policy for active transportation facility lighting, as a new policy would also require endorsement from the area municipalities.
In response to the Committee, D. Spencer clarified that an updated illumination policy would not only apply to multi-use trails but also to pedestrian walkways, off-road cycling trails, and other types of active transportation trails.
The Committee expressed their opinion that the Region has a duty to ensure that citizens are able to safely use active transportation routes and access transit stops by making sure these areas are adequately illuminated. The Committee also suggested the possibility of conducting an audit of the gaps in illumination of active transportation facilities and of the routes to access these facilities.
M. Cowan left the meeting at 6:50 p.m.
Staff clarified that they are open to examining different ways in which to structure an updated illumination policy that will involve the area municipalities in various ways, but these details will be solidified later in the policy development process. Staff noted that this policy will also encompass lighting for roundabouts.
In response to the Committee, Staff also confirmed that safety will be the main priority of the policy update.