MAY 1, 2013
Don't forget--The Royal Botanical Gardens is having their annual Auxiliary Plant Sale May 1, 2 4, & 5 in the Arboretum
APRIL 26, 2013
East Plains United Church has the second ELECTRONIC RECYCLING PROGRAM underway for the next 7 weeks. Volunteers will be on hand on Saturday mornings between 9 AM and 12 noon in the west parking lot to receive all of your unwated electronic items. The following items are acceptable:
televison, stand-alone computers, computer monitors, laptops, printers, telephones, cellular phones, cameras, radios, audio equipment.
If necessary, porch pick up is available--electronics only.
ALDERSHOT HONOUR ROLL
The Aldershot Community Honour Roll hosts its 6th annual reception on TUESDAY, MAY 28. Nominations are invited for people of any age whose leadership, vision, creativity or initiative benefited either Aldershot or the community beyond Aldershot.
If you would like to nominate a current or former Aldershot resident, please complete the nomination form which can be found at: www.achr.ca
Nominations should be sent to: Aldershot Honour Roll C/0 614 Bayshore Bl, Burlington ON L7T 1T1. Tickets for the reception are $25 and are available by calling Lou at 905-526-1501
JANE'S WALK: PLAINS ROAD VILLAGE VISION TO HOST
Aldershot is about to join 85 other communities in 17 countries by hosting its first ever "JANE'S WALK". The event, to include both a walk and a cycling tour, will be held on the afternoon of SUNDAY, MAY 5, 2013, rain or shine. JANE'S WALKS are conversational tours inspired by urban thinker Jane Jacobs. The goal is to put people in touch with where they live and with each other. Walkers and cyclists are inivted to meet in the parking lot at Holy Rosary School at 1:30 PM on MAY 5. The walking tour will go from Shadeland Av to King Rd and back. The cycling tour will take place in south-east Aldershot. The entire event will run about two hours, with a refreshment break in the middle. The event is free and everyone is welcome. For more information, call 905-335-7600 ext 7587
SPRING FLOWER SALE (ANNUALS) AT EAST PLAINS UNITED CHURCH
Order forms are available at the church or download the form from the church website www.eastplainsunitedchurch.com Monies raised will to go the church's operating fund. Pick up dates are FRIDAY, MAY 17 5 - 8 PM or SATURDAY MAY 18 8 AM - 1 PM.
APRIL 3, 2013
Here's the latest from the Royal Botanical Gardens. Mulch day is coming--be sure you are a member of the RBG to take advantage of this event. www.mailermailer.com/x
MARCH 22, 2013
And the news just keeps rolling at about what is happening at the Royal Botanical Gardens. The nest of eagles has eaglets in it as of today. Head off to the boardwalk closest to the nest (Marshwalk Boardwalk – Cootes Paradise NS) to see this spectacular sight. Take along your binoculars.
MARCH 19, 2013
Burlington has been voted #1 for the Best Place to Live by MoneySense Magazine. Here's the link with more information. www.moneysense.ca/2013/03/20/burlington-best-mid-sized-city/ Burlington has also been voted the #4 place to retire. www.moneysense.ca/2013/03/20/best-places-to-retire/kingston-2/ and #1 place for new immigrants.
MARCH 19, 2013
TORONTO, March 19, 2013 – The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and Member of Parliament (Port Moody–Westwood–Port Coquitlam), today announced funding for the Royal Botanical Gardens for an innovative marketing project.
“Our Government recognizes that arts and heritage organizations contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of our communities and enrich the quality of life of all Canadians,” said Minister Moore. “We are proud to support the Royal Botanical Gardens, a world-renowned botanical garden that welcomes more than 190,000 visitors per year.”
The Royal Botanical Gardens, open to the public since 1932, is the largest botanical garden in Canada and a national historic site. It features dozens of documented collections displayed in five major garden exhibition areas. With this funding, the Royal Botanical Gardens, in partnership with 18 other botanical gardens across Canada, plans to improve attendance, interest and support for Canadian botanical gardens by developing and sharing various marketing strategies and tools.
"Around the world, botanical gardens and arboreta are re-inventing themselves as society evolves and changes", said Mark Runciman, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Botanical Gardens. "This project, which is the largest single investment ever made in the botanical gardens network across Canada, is part of this transformation. It will help these educational and scientific institutions to better reach the public and also to improve their financial sustainability."
The Government of Canada is providing total funding of $595,000 over three years through the Strategic Initiatives component of the Canada Cultural Investment Fund. The Strategic Initiatives component provides funding for projects supported by multiple partners and benefitting many organizations. These initiatives help arts and heritage organizations diversify their revenue streams and strengthen the efficiency of their management and business practices.
MARCH 14, 2013
There is a lot going on the the Royal Botanical Gardens! Click here for more details! www.rbg.ca/events
Here's what's happening:
DINOSAURS! to April 7
Prehistoric Brunch Apr 7 at the Gardens Cafe
Easter Brunch March 31 in the Auditorium
Members Mulch Day April 20
Earth Day April 20 at the Arboretum
Auxiliary Plant Sale May 1, 2 4, & 5 in the Arboretum
Tulip Festival and Lilac Festival in May
Rose Festival in June
Red Hot Jazz and Cool Blues starting Wednesdays June - Sept beinning at 6 - 8:30 PM in Hendrie Park
Magic and Mischief in July and August
ZimSculpt Aug 17 - Sept 30 in Hendrie Park
Teddy Bear Picnic Aug 31- Sept 1 in the Rock Garden
Holiday Traditions featuring RBG train show Nov 14- Jan 5 at the RBG Centre
MARCH 11,2013
At the ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS
March Break at Pioneer Energy's Battle of the Titans
Now to April 7 Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. @ RBG Centre www.rbg.ca
MARCH 11, 2013
UPDATE FROM COUNCILLOR RICK CRAVEN
Open Space in North Aldershot To Be Preserved
By now you have probably heard that businessman John Holland has generously donated 37 acres of land to the City of Burlington. This natural setting is located south of Snake Road and west of York Road. The City plans to preserve this area as open space and make it part of the evolving Cootes-to-Escarpment park system. This is great news for north Aldershot and for our environment. My thanks to Mr. Holland for his generous gift and vision for the future of our community. I also want to thank Mayor Goldring for his guidance and support during the behind-the-scenes discussions which lead to this great news.
New Ball Hockey Court Planned for Warwick Surrey
The public is invited to an "Open House" to see plans for the construction of a new "Ball Hockey Court" in Bolus Gardens Parkette. The plan is to build a fenced and paved area just north of the existing multi use court in the parkette. This will allow for year-round ball hockey for players of all ages. This project was initiated by the Warwick Surrey Community Association with the aim of enriching recreational opportunities in this neighbourhood. Major funding is coming from the GWD Foundation for Kids with support and management from the City of Burlington. The meeting is Wednesday April 3, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Reach Out Center for Kids, 645 Plains Road East, in the plaza beside McDonalds.
Indian Point Character Study
Over the past couple of years a variety of planning issues have come up regarding Indian Point. Development pressures have resulted in some land severances reducing a couple of lot sizes. Some residents feel that if this trend continues the unique character of Indian Point could be threatened. On the other hand, private property owners have the right, under the Ontario Planning Act, to apply for such severances. Since the City of Burlington is currently in the midst of its 5 year Official Plan review, the time has come for this discussion. Consequently, the City will host a meeting about Indian Point at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2 in the Shoreline Room at the Burlington Arts Centre.
Meanwhile, there has been a new development. The City has received a request for the demolition of the old home at 504 Indian Road. This home is "listed" as an "A" on the City's heritage list of historic homes. This listing means that the home cannot be demolished for 60 days in order to give the City time to determine if the home should be protected under the Ontario Heritage Act. As you can imagine, this is quite controversial. Staff are expected to bring a report on this matter to the April 15, Community Development Committee meeting.
Rescheduled Public Meeting About 34 Plains Road Development
We had to cancel an earlier date for a public meeting about a proposed new development on Plains Road. This has now been rescheduled. The project is at 34 Plains Road East which is the old retail plaza adjacent to (but not including) Russell Williams Restaurant. The proposal is for a new 6-storey condominium building with some retail space on the first floor. The public meeting to review and discuss the proposal will now be held Thursday, April 4 at 7:00 p.m. at the Aldershot Pool Community Room.
Proposed New Development on Plains Rd West
The City has received an application for construction of a three-storey stone and brick building on the vacant triangle of land adjacent to the RBG's Laking Garden and at the most western portion of Spring Gardens Road. The proposed building would include 1,900 square feet of retail space on the first floor, 9 apartments above and underground parking. The proposal requires site plan approval, minor variances and an amendment to the Parkway Belt. The City will circulate the application to various departments for comments and then I will host a neighbourhood meeting to respond to any questions or concerns.
Reminder About Traffic Disruptions
The Ministry of Transportation is planning major maintenance work on two Aldershot bridges starting in April. The work on the Lemonville Road and Waterdown Road bridges over the 403 will last for about 8 months. It is expected that this work will significant disrupt the local traffic pattern.
Aldershot Streets to be Resurfaced
With the passage of the 2013 City budget I am now able to confirm that the following streets will be resurfaced this year: Howard Road Extension, Oaklands Park Court, Plumtree Drive, Springbank Crescent, Ellengale Road, Gayne Blvd, Cloverleaf Drive, Glenview Avenue, Old Orchard Road (from White Oak to Manorwood) and Manorwood Drive (from Old Orchard to Grove Park).
What's Happening At the North End of King Road?
The 1,700 square meter building under construction at 578 King Forest Court (north of the 403) is the new head office of GYP Technology. This firm is a global leader in the design and construction of drywall equipment. It is moving its Canadian head office from Mississauga to Aldershot and is expected to bring 60 engineering jobs to our community.
6th Annual Aldershot Honour Roll
The Aldershot Community Honour Roll will host its 6th annual reception on Tuesday, May 28 at the Mercedes Benz dealership on North Service Road.
Nominations are invited for people of any age whose leadership, vision, creativity or initiative benefited either Aldershot or the community beyond Aldershot.
If you would like to nominate a current or former Aldershot resident please complete the nomination form which can be found at one of the following web sites:
Aldershot Honour Roll, www.achr.ca
Aldershot Village BIA, www.aldershotbia.com
Rick Craven, www.rickcraven.ca
Nominations should be sent to the Aldershot Honour Roll, c/o 614 Bayshore Blvd, Burlington, L7T 1T1 no later than April 5, 2013.
Tickets for the reception are $25 and are available by calling Lou at 526-1501.
OTHER INFORMATION
Property Tax Rebates for Seniors
You could be eligible for a $450 rebate if you or your spouse are 65 years of age or older, receive the guaranteed income supplement and have owned your home in Burlington for at least one year. For more information call City Hall at 335-7600.
Garbage Bag Limit - Tag Pick-up Info
The new expanded blue box, three bag limit and "bag tag" programs begin on April 1. On that date you will be able to add mixed plastics, empty steel paint cans and spiral bound cardboard containers to your blue box. You will also be required to display a garbage tag on any garbage bag/container that exceeds the new three bag limit. A maximum of three untagged garbage bags/containers and three tagged garbage bags/containers will be collected on your scheduled collection day.
From April 1 to September 7, households exceeding the three bag limit will be required to display complimentary garbage tags and starting September 9 households exceeding the three bag limit will be required to buy $2 garbage tags. Garbage tags will be available through the Region's website by using an online request tool or by calling 311. Garbage tags may also be picked up at the following locations; Aldershot Library, Brant Hills Library and Aldershot Home Hardware.
Complimentary garbage tags will be available starting March 18 and there will be no limit on the number you may pick up. If you contact the Region requesting tags you will be mailed six sheets of five complimentary tags. The complimentary tags may not be used after September 7. The $2 garbage tags will be available starting August 19 and may be purchased in groups of five for $10.
Residents who live in a townhouse complex where they are required to place their garbage in a common area for collection are exempt from the tag program but are still restricted to 3 garbage bags.
How to Get Your New Big Blue Box
The Region has planned a series of truckload events during March. You will be able to pick up, free of charge, one tall 22 gallon blue box, one GreenCart and Kitchen Catcher and an Information kit. In our area the nearest location will be the Burlington Closed Landfill Site on the North Service road, Saturday, March 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The containers can also be picked up at Regional Headquarters in Bronte.
New Tree Bylaw Being Considered
The City is currently gathering information on how the community feels about the idea of a new Tree Bylaw. The long-term goal is to preserve as much of our City's tree cover as possible. The main area of controversy centers on whether restrictions should be placed on the removal of trees from private property. Your opinion is welcome. For more information please go to: http://cms.burlington.ca/Page10349.aspx
MARCH 6, 2013
Click to find out what is happening at the Royal Botanical Gardens!
MARCH 6, 2013
UPDATE FROM COUNCILLOR RICK CRAVEN
King Road Underpass
Work is continuing on the new aqueduct portion of this big project. The aqueduct will carry the Indian Creek over King Road just north of the underpass. Construction of the aqueduct is expected to be completed in the spring, after which road work will be done to connect the new underpass with Plains Road and the North Service Road. Full closures of King Road may be expected for 3 weeks in June and another 3 weeks in September as the work continues. With some luck we could be driving through the new underpass by November.
Former Canadian Tire Site on Plains Road
My office has received a number of inquiries since a development sign went up on this property. It is true that the property has been sold to a local developer but no formal application has been made to the City yet for redevelopment of this site. I was advised by the developer however that he hopes to build a "mix of commercial and residential units with the commercial separate from the residential". I will certainly keep you advised and if and when an application is filed I will host a public meeting to review the proposal.
Greenwood Cemetery Approval
City Council has given its approval to a $450,000 expansion of the Greenwood Cemetery, east of Francis Road in Aldershot. The work, most of which will take place in 2013, will include decorative fencing along Francis Road, a new driveway entrance off Greenwood Drive and a public seating node at the corner of Greenwood and Francis. This will include two benches and low level plantings. The cemetery itself will eventually have more interment plots, new columbarium nodes and more landscaping.
Click on the link to view a copy of the expansion report and design.
Eagle Heights
In my January message I advised that Paletta International had signaled its intention to move ahead with its "Eagle Heights" subdivision application for north Aldershot. As a result, Paletta has submitted a technical report about the traffic impact of the proposed subdivision. Click on the link to view this report. If you have any comments on the traffic analysis please submit them to: Mike Crough, Planner, City of Burlington, Ph. 905-335-7600 ext. 7427, Email: michael.crough@burlington.ca
The Ontario Municipal Board meanwhile will be checking in on the status of the Paletta application in April. This increasingly complex file involves the proposed construction of 870 new homes, including 4 apartment buildings, in north Aldershot west of Waterdown Road.
Waterdown Road and Lemonville Road Bridge Construction in 2013
The MTO is expected to begin major maintenance on the both the Lemonville Road and Waterdown Road bridges over the 403 this coming spring, probably in April. The work will last for the entire construction season and is expected to be quite disruptive to traffic flow. The Lemonville bridge will be reduced to one lane with a temporary traffic light. The Waterdown bridge will be reduced from to two lanes, one in each direction. The work on the Waterdown bridge includes a new concrete and asphalt deck and new concrete railings. Also, the MTO will be storing its construction equipment during this period at the north/east corner of the 403 interchange.
City of Hamilton Position on Waterdown Road
Hamilton is putting pressure on the Province to deal quickly with the objections to the widening of Waterdown Road in North Aldershot. There were 7 objections to the proposed widening. The most significant of these is from Conservation Halton and has to do with the need for a wildlife crossing. The Province ultimately has jurisdiction over these objections but the City of Burlington has been working to resolve the concerns since last summer. Hamilton has written to the Minister of Environment asking the Province to make a decision on the objections "in a timely manner" so that construction may proceed. Hamilton sites development pressures in the area and; "The lack of proper transportation infrastructure impacts the health and safety of the community".
Employment Lands in Aldershot
In a recent report to City Council the Burlington Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) commented on the available employment lands in Aldershot. These are the open areas south of the 403, north of the railway tracks, between Waterdown Road and King Road. The City's long term goal is to build a south service road through this area and attract new businesses that will bring jobs to our community. BEDC commented; "the 403 West Corridor offers good highway visibility and transportation accessibility as it provides easy access to the GO Transit Waterdown Road Station and Toronto's financial core. As a result, some employers will value opportunities to develop office and/or corporate space that provide employees with easy community capabilities. The location on the western edge of Burlington provides access for employees who reside in less costly communities in Hamilton, Cambridge and Niagara". Council directed the BEDC to prepare a strategy to encourage the development of these lands over time.
Rick Craven
City of Burlington & Region of Halton
Councillor, Ward One
Ph: 905-335-7600 ext. 7587
Fax: 905-335-7881
MARCH 6, 2013
Royal Botanical Gardens Presents:
Don't miss out on this rare opportunity, coming to RBG this Sunday!
Amy Stewart, award-winning author, joins us by videoconference for an afternoon of fun, botanical inspiration and botanically inspired drinks, of course! Amy discusses her new book and you can talk to her during our live Q&A. Her new book, The Drunken Botanist: The Plants that Create the World's Great Drinks, is available for sale with signed name plates. Cocktails featured in Amy's book are also available for sale.
More information on: http://www.rbg.ca
DECEMBER 14, 2012
Upcoming events:
Aldershot Village BIA, Board of Management Monthly meetings, 2nd Thursday monthly, 7:30 AM. Check website for location, news and events.
www.aldershotbia.com 905-637-6930 info@aldershotbia.com
"Alderfest on the Plains"
Art & Music Festival, Aldershot Park, Saturday, July 27, 2013
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HALTON WASTE MANAGEMENT
- from Councillor Rick Craven
Commencing February 2013, the Region of Halton will be offering twice a week collection of Blue Box material in the designated Business Improvement Areas. This enhancement in service will be communicated in our Waste Management Calendar for Shopping Districts. In addition, the Region will be offering year round 4x weekly collection of curbside litter containers. Note that the section of bulk waste collection does not apply to the BIA's.
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UPDATE ON FORMER MINI-PUTT SITE ON PLAINS RD
- from Councillor Rick Craven
I have met with the developer of the property at the former mini-putt site beside Maplehurst School. Obviously this project has been unexpectedly delayed. Since Branthaven Homes purchased this land, the regulations have changed about building near creeks. The Halton Region Conservation Authority has advised that during a major storm, this property may receive a couple of inches of "spill" from a nearby flooded creek, so building on the site is now restricted. The developer has advised me that he thinks the "spill" problem can be overcome through grading and engineering. He is appealing to both the Conservation Authority and the Ministry of Natural Resources. If he succeeds, he plans to go ahead with this original idea to build 34 townhomes and 6,000 square feet of retail stores. The bottom line here is that construction is not imminent. I will keep you advised of the situation.
________________________________________
November 15, 2012
ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS: upcoming events----Holiday Traditions Featuring the RBG Train Show, November 16 to January 6 and The Auxiliary of RBG Christmas Show and Sale November 15 to 17.
The Holiday Traditions at the RBG begins November 16 and runs to January 6. Daily 10 AM to 5 PM, Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM
Come to see the largest botanical train set which pays tribute to great Canadian landmarks.
VISIT SANTA AND HIS REINDEER: weekends November 17 to Dec 22. The region's best dressed Santa has brought along his trusty companions for some memorable photo opportunities.
TRAIN WEEKEND, December 1 and 2: Join model railways clubs from the region and enjoy demonstrations of various scales of trains.
BREAKFAST with SANTA, December 8 and 16: This is your little one's chance to get up close and personal with the Big Guy himself!
CHILDREN'S PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE: weekends November 17 to December 23: Head upstairs to SANTA'S WORKSHOP to make a winter craft (10 AM to 4 PM), build a toy (11:40 AM to 12:40 PM), hear a story (10:40 AM and 2:50 PM), write a letter to Santa and more! From December 27 to January 6, join in for story time (11 AM and 2 PM), a winter hike (1 PM), winter crafts and a touch table (10 AM to 4 PM). Weekend entertainment is provided for your enjoyment.
AUXILIARY OF RBG CHRISTMAS SHOW AND SALE
Located in the Camilla and Peter Dalglish Atrium: November 15 10 AM to 8 PM, November 16 10 AM to 6 PM and November 17 10 AM to 5 PM. Vendors and demonstrations of amaryllis bulbs, taking care of your holiday plants and affordable table decor.
For more info: www.rbg.ca
October 30, 2012
ART IN ACTION.
The 10th Annual Burlington Studio Tour begins Nov 3 and Nov 4, 2012 from 10 AM to 5 PM. FREE ADMISSION. For more information, see http://www.artinaction.ca/artists.html
Dave Lawson - Black and White Photography
My work explores the simplification of the world, but attempts to maintain elements of the natural complexity. Attention to fine detail, removal of colour, pushing forward the interplay of light and dark,renders that simplification without flattening the vision.
Visit Dave Lawson at Edy Roy Gallery,654 Spring Gardens Rd. Burlington ON . This is Dave's 4th year at the Studio Tour.
The Edy Roy Gallery exhibits art work of superior quality. We carefully select work from and represent professional artists who take exceptional pride in the originality of their art.
October 30, 2012
CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS
EAST PLAINS UNITED CHURCH, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2012, 375 Plains Rd E, Burlington ON (at Dovercourt)
9:30 AM to 4 PM. Adult Admission $1.00
Over 50 artisans in the 39th arts and crafts show and sale. East Plains Ladies' Workshop, Bake Sale and Deli, 11th annual Granny's Bargain Bonanza, Next to New Books, The Spirit of Christmas Past, Children's Treasures, Luncheon in the Campbell Room, East & Treats and the 15th Annual Silent Auction.
October 29, 2012
Come and share with the Aldershot Village BIA in the lighting of the Christmas Tree of Hope on FRIDAY, NOV 30/12 FROM 7 - 8 PM AT PLUCKER'S WING & CRAB SHACK PARKING LOT, 355 PLAINS RD EAST, Burlington ON.
Help us light the tree once again this year and collect funds, clothing and food for the local Compasion Society plus provide ongoing support for the CHML/Y108 Children's Fund serving Hamilton and Burlington. Free hot chocolate and hot dogs, entertainment and horse drawn wagon rides. SANTA ARRIVES AT 7:45 PM
October 19, 2012
Steps to a Walkable Community By America Walks & Sam Schwartz Engineering
Walking is the oldest, and yet most common form of transportation used by people of all ages, cultures and economic status. It has a profound impact on transportation, health, economic development, social equality and overall quality of life. Steps to a Walkable Community is a comprehensive guide useful for those interested in contributing to creating environments where citizens have the choice to walk to their desired destination. The guide outlines the benefits of investing in walk-friendly design infrastructures as well as provides multidisciplinary tactics on improving walking conditions in various cities.
www.8-80cities.org/images/res-walking-cycling-articles/walkable-community-guide.pdf
October 18, 2012
Are you ready for the first cold day of fall? Many in our community are not.
Our community is in desperate need of gently used or new coats, hats, mitts, gloves, scarves, boots & blankets - anything for outdoors in the winter time. Please take a few minutes to see if there is an unused coat, an extra pair of boots, anything you can donate. Bring your donations into Leslie Bullock’s RE/MAX Garden City office, 720 Guelph Line, Burlington or drop them in the bin provided at Leslie’s home at 241 Plains Rd. E., Burlington.
October 2012 News From Your Ward 1 Councillor Rick Craven
Aldershot
Major Milestone Achieved in Building King Rd Railway Underpass
We have passed a major milestone in the construction of the King Road railway underpass! Engineers successfully installed the "tunnel" under the railway tracks during Thanksgiving weekend. This was quite an achievement as it required the precise relocation of the precast, five million pound "tunnel". Now, we enter the final year of construction with expectation that we will be driving on the new underpass by this time next year. My thanks to neighbourhood residents and businesses for their patience and co-operation.
Plains Road
The recent release of a consultant and staff analysis on the future of Plains Road has stirred a lot of controversy in Aldershot. The analysis examined the possibility of more crosswalks, better bike lanes, improved landscaping and the idea of a "road diet" or "parkway" in the area of the RBG. It's important to note that these proposals are for discussion only at this point. They deal with the long-term future of Plains Road. Nothing is going to happened in the short run and certainly not without further discussion. With specific regard to the "road diet" idea, City Council's position is that there is "no decision, no timetable and no plan at this point". In 2013 staff will bring back another report recommending which of the ideas proposed for Plains Road are "reasonable, practical and affordable".
Council Approves Upgrading of Intersection at Waterdown Road and Plains
City Council has agreed to a plan to upgrade the intersection of Plains Road and Waterdown Road and to widen Waterdown Road up to Masonry Court. The aim is to improve traffic flow moving through the intersection and up to the 403 interchange, enhance pedestrian safety and better align the north side of the intersection with the south side. At present, this work is scheduled for 2014 or 2015. This project is very important to our long term plan to "dress-up" this intersection as the main gateway to west Aldershot and the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Should We Build a Community Garden in Aldershot?
The jury is out on whether we should build a community garden in the Francis Road bikeway, north of Marley Road. The idea is being embraced by many people and the City is prepared to build it. The problem is water supply. We need to find a reliable supply of water to service the garden and none exists at present. As you may know the City built its first community garden recently in Central Park and it has been a real hit. The idea in Aldershot is to construct a fenced area with about 17 raised gardens approximately 7' x 12 ‘. Gardeners rent these plots for a nominal sum and use them to grow vegetables. There are obvious benefits for physical activity, growing local food and the environment. A final decision is expected soon.
Foo Ho Restaurant
I have been advised that the owner of this popular Aldershot location is retiring and the building has been sold. The restaurant will close after Christmas. I understand that the property has been purchased by a developer but the City has not received any proposal for the future use of this building or location.
Liquor Store in Aldershot
Once again the LCBO has rejected my request that they open a store in Aldershot. In response to my second letter, Jackie Bonic, Vice President of Store Development said "The establishment of a retail outlet in Aldershot has not yet been identified in our current plan. We will continue to monitor changes in this area, as part of our on-going market studies" (and) "In the spring of 2013 we are planning on expanding our Burlington store at Fairview and Maple".
Greenwood Cemetery Update
A public meeting was recently held in Aldershot to discuss the proposed expansion of the Greenwood Cemetery. You may recall that Mr. Lorne McMillan donated 8 hectares of land to the cemetery, bordering on Francis Road and Greenwood Drive. The proposal is to expand the cemetery over to Francis Road with a variety of burial options including casket burial, columbarium and cremation burial. The internal layout will take the form of a picturesque park setting with gardens and seated areas. Parking will be on the shoulders of internal roads. Decorative fencing will surround the expansion with trees, shrubs and seats along Francis Road and Greenwood Drive. A proposed "seated node" at the corner of Francis and Greenwood is still under discussion.
Official Opening of New Seniors Apartment Building Set for October 19
Please join me on Friday, October 19 at 8:30 a.m. for a brief ceremony marking the official opening of the new Halton Community Housing Corporation seniors' apartment building in Aldershot. The Aldershot Village Residence is located at 540 Plains Road East, above our new library. The building houses 65 seniors' residences, including 10 which are specifically designed for seniors using wheel chairs.
October 3, 2012
Exciting news I just have to share! In Aldershot we have the opportunity for a "Community Garden". The information session hosted by the City of Burlington and the Warwick-Surrey Community Association is Thursday October 4th, 7:00 p.m. at the Aldershot Arena on Townsend Avenue. Please come by and support our Community.
September 25, 2012
Are you ready for the first cold day of fall? Many in our community are not.Our community is in desperate need of gently used or new coats, hats, mitts, gloves, scarves, boots & blankets - anything for outdoors in the winter time. Please take a few minutes to see if there is an unused coat, an extra pair of boots, anything you can donate. Bring your donations into Leslie Bullock’s RE/MAX Garden City office, 720 Guelph Line, Burlington or drop them in the bin provided at Leslie’s home at 241 Plains Rd. E., Burlington.
September 25, 2012
For your interest, The Waterdown Road, Plains Road to Masonry Court Environmental Assessment Report (Report TS-27-12; attached link below) will be presented at the Community Development Committee meeting on Monday, October 1 at 6:30 PM at City Hall.
August 20, 2012
A lot is happening in Aldershot! The Plains Rd Corridor Functional Design and Implementation Study will be having a public meeting on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 7 PM at The Royal Botantical Gardens, 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington ON. Plan to attend and have your voice heard.
Here's a link for more information. cms.burlington.ca/AssetFactory.aspx
AUGUST 2012 UPDATE FROM WARD 1 COUNCILLOR RICK CRAVEN
Aldershot
New Street Signs on Plains
As a result of an initiative by the Aldershot Village Business Improvement Area the City is cooperating in a plan to replace all the old street signs on Plains Road. The new signs are bigger and have improved surface reflection for night visibility.
As a result of the recent review of bus service in the City, the Plains Road route will see some enhancements starting September 2. A new Route 101 “Express” bus will operate along Plains between the Burlington GO Station and downtown Hamilton. In Aldershot, it will pick up at King Road, Downsview and Waterdown Roads. Travel time to Hamilton should be reduced from 45 minutes on the current Route 1 to just 30 minutes. This will be weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., every 30 minutes. Also, the current Route 1 service will be improved on Sundays by increasing the frequency from 60 minutes to 30 minutes from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The Future of Plains Road
Recommendations about the future of Plains Road will be presented at a public meeting at the RBG on the evening of September 19. A committee of City Council will consider the recommendations on October 3.
Among the recommendations are the following:
• Add more landscaping to the street
• Bury some of the smaller utility lines (not the big ones)
• Widen the bike lanes
• Construct a roundabout at the York Blvd
• Build more medians in the middle of the road (some with planters)
• Build more north/south cross walks (some with refuge islands for pedestrians)
• Conduct a "pilot" project to reline Plains from five lanes to three (one lane in each direction with a centre turning lane) in the area around Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, West Plains United Church and the RBG.
• And much more
June 14, 2012
Here's a link to the Plains Road Village Vision fundraiser which took place at Geraldos. New building at the corner of Plains, LaSalle and Waterdown Roads plus the pending construction of 30,000 square feet of new retail space were highlighted.
http://www.snapburlington.com/index.php?option=com_sngevents&id[]=387940
June 4, 2012
Notice of Third Public Information Centre
Plains Road Corridor Functional Design and Implementation Study
From Highway 403 to Queen Elizabeth Way
The City of Burlington has initiated a functional design and implementation study for corridor infrastructure and streetscape improvements within the section of Plains Road between Highway 403 and the QEW.
Plains Road is an important part of the Aldershot transportation network. It is a historical scenic roadway where retention and enhancement of the village character is of paramount importance. The project team has developed a recommended roadway design that accommodates all users – pedestrians, cyclists, transit patrons, cars and trucks – safely and efficiently. The study limits are shown below.
A key component of the study is consultation with stakeholders (public and agencies) at Public Information Centres (PICs). The third PIC has been arranged for:
Date: Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Time: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Presentation followed by workshop session
Place: Holy Rosary School, Gymnasium
261 Plains Rd., E.
This PIC will provide the public an opportunity to meet the project team, review the steps taken to date, and review and provide comments on the recommended design to the project team.
If you require further information, or if you have specific comments related to this study, please contact either of the following:
Mr. Cary Clark, P. Eng.
Manager of Development and Environmental Engineering
Engineering Department
Community Services Division
City of Burlington
426 Brant St. P.O. Box 5013
Burlington, Ont. L7R 3Z6
Telephone: 905-335-7600, ext. 7672
Fax: 905-335-7874
Email: clarkc@burlington.ca
Mr. Bob Koziol, P. Eng.
Manager, Municipal Transportation
MMM Group Limited
100 Commerce Valley Dr. W
Thornhill, Ont. L3T 0A1
Telephone: 905-882-7249
Fax: 905-882-0055
Email: koziolb@mmm.ca
Posted: MAY 8, 2012
Aldershot/Burlington Purina Walk for Dog Guides
WHERE: Aldershot Market
WHEN: Sunday, May 27, 2012
TIME: Registration at 10am
Aldershot/Burlington Purina Walk for Dog Guides
The Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides is holding the Purina Walk for Dog Guides on Sunday, May 27 in more than 200 communities across Canada, including Burlington. The Aldershot/Burlington walk begins at the Aldershot Market at 35 Plains Rd. E. on Sunday May 27th with registration opening at 10 a.m., followed by the walk at 11 a.m.
There is no registration fee and all the proceeds from funds raised will go towards providing a dog guide at no cost to Canadians with disabilities. The foundation trains five different types of dog guides: canine vision, for the blind or visually impaired; hearing ear, for people who are deaf or hard of hearing; special skills for those with a medical or physical disability; seizure response, for people with epilepsy, and autism assistance, for children with autism. According to the foundation it costs approximately $20,000 to raise and train each dog guide.
For more information or to register, contact Wenda Bourgeois at 905-335-1681, e-mail bourgeoisw@live.com or visit www.purinawalkfordogguides.com.
