MMM Group LimitedIngersoll, ON Woodstock, ON 10 Lisgar Ave. N5C 2V5 N4S 7Y3 Tillsonburg, ON N4G 5A5 A copy of the DCR has also been posted on the study website at . Interested persons

MMM Group Limited

Communities

Transportation

Buildings

Infrastructure

Replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure at Highway 19 (Plank Road) and

associated interchange improvements

Design and Construction Report

Detailed Design G.W.P. 3079-09-00

Prepared for:

Ontario Ministry of Transportation West Region

Highway 401 / Highway 19 Underpass Replacement and Interchange Improvements, GWP 3079-09-00 Ministry of Transportation, West Region Detailed Design Study and Class EA Study Design and Construction Report

November 2015 Public Record

THE PUBLIC RECORD

A copy of this Design and Construction Report (DCR) has been submitted to the following

office of the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change to be placed in the Public

Record:

Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change London Regional Office 733 Exeter Road London, ON N6E 1L3

The report is also available for review during regular business hours at:

Ontario Ministry of Transportation West Region, Front Lobby 659 Exeter Road London, ON N6E 1L3

Town of Ingersoll The Town Centre 130 Oxford Street, 2nd Floor Ingersoll, ON N5C 2V5

Ingersoll Public Library 130 Oxford Street Ingersoll, ON N5C 2V5

Oxford County – Customer Service Desk 21 Reeve Street, P.O. Box 1614 Woodstock, ON N4S 7Y3

Town of Tillsonburg Customer Service Centre 10 Lisgar Ave. Tillsonburg, ON N4G 5A5

A digital copy of this report is also available on the project website at http://highway401-

hwy19andnorwichave.ca/highway-19/

Ce document hautement spécialisé n’est disponsible qu’en anglais en virtue du règlement

411/97, qui en exempte l’application de la Loi sur les services en français. Pour de l’aide en

français, veuillez communiquer avec le ministère des Transports, Bureau des services en

français au: 905-704-2045 ou 905-704-2046.

SUBMISSION OF THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION REPORTDetailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment Study

Replacement of the Highway 401 Underpass Structure at Highway 19 and Interchange Improvements (G.W.P. 3079-09-00)

THE STUDY

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained MMM Group Limited to undertake the Detailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) Study for the replacement of the Highway 401 Underpass Structure at Highway 19 and associated interchange improvements, in the Town of Ingersoll and the Township of Southwest Oxford in Oxford County. The study location is identified in the key plan.

Interchange improvements include the installation of roundabouts at each of the ramp terminals. Highway 19 (Plank Line) and the carpool parking lot will be closed to accommodate construction. Temporary overnight closures of Highway 401 will be required as well as lane closures. The ramps to and from the highway will remain open during the bridge closure with detours directing traffic to adjacent highway crossings at Foldens Line and Culloden Road.

THE PROCESS

This project is following the approved environmental planning process for Group ‘B’ projects under the Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Transportation Environmental Study Report (TESR) for the Highway 401/Highway 19 structure replacement and interchange improvements was completed and received environmental assessment approval in November 2012.

A Design and Construction Report (DCR) has now been completed and is available for a 30-day public review period from November 12, 2015 to December 12, 2015 at the locations listed below. The DCR documents the development of the approved preliminary design alternative, construction staging and access plans, potential environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures.

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION REPORT - PUBLIC REVIEW LOCATIONS

Ministry of the Environment Ontario Ministry of Transportation Town of Ingersolland Climate Change West Region, Front Lobby The Town CentreLondon Regional Office 659 Exeter Road 130 Oxford Street, 2nd Floor733 Exeter Road London, ON Ingersoll, ONLondon, ON N6E 1L3 N6E 1L3 N5C 2V5

Ingersoll Public Library Oxford County Town of Tillsonburg130 Oxford Street 21 Reeve Street, P.O. Box 1614 Customer Service Centre Ingersoll, ON Woodstock, ON 10 Lisgar Ave.N5C 2V5 N4S 7Y3 Tillsonburg, ON N4G 5A5

A copy of the DCR has also been posted on the study website at www.highway401-Hwy19andNorwichAve.ca.

Interested persons are encouraged to review this document and provide comments by December 12, 2015. After the 30-day public review period has ended, construction can proceed contingent upon funding and the receipt of all other required approvals and permits. If you wish to obtain additional information, or to provide comments, please contact:

Ms. Alla Dinerman, P.Eng. Mr. Kane Erickson, P.Eng. Mr. Greg Moore, B.E.S.Consultant Project Manager Project Engineer Consultant Environmental PlannerMMM Group Limited Ministry of Transportation MMM Group Limited100 Commerce Valley Dr. West West Region 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300Thornhill, ON L3T 0A1 659 Exeter Road, 3rd Floor Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8tel: 905-882-7212 London, ON N6E 1L3 tel: 905-823-8500, ext.1323toll free: 1-877-562-7947 tel: 519-873-4565 toll free: 1-877-562-7947fax: 905-822-0055 toll free: 1-800-265-6072, ext. 519-873-4565 fax: 905-823-8503 e-mail: [email protected] fax: 519-873-4600 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]

Comments and information are being collected to assist the MTO in meeting the requirements of the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. Information will be collected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Access to Information Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

, Customer Service Desk


November 2015 Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 PROJECT OVERVIEW ................................................................... 1

1.1 Summary Description of the Undertaking ......................................................................... 1

1.2 Environmental Assessment Act Process .......................................................................... 3

1.2.1 Ontario Environmental Assessment Act ................................................................. 3

1.2.2 Canadian Environmental Assessment Act ............................................................. 7

1.3 Purpose of the Design and Construction Report .............................................................. 7

2.0 CONSULTATION / ENGAGEMENT ................................................ 9

2.1 External Agency Consultation ............................................................................................ 9

2.2 Public Consultation ........................................................................................................... 13

2.2.1 Project Website .................................................................................................... 13

2.3 First Nations and Métis Engagement ............................................................................... 13

3.0 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE RECOMMENDED DESIGN . 15

3.1 Major Features of the Bridge Replacement ..................................................................... 15

3.2 Interchange Improvements ............................................................................................... 15

3.3 Drainage .............................................................................................................................. 20

3.4 Construction Staging and Traffic Management .............................................................. 20

3.5 Illumination ......................................................................................................................... 23

3.6 Utilities ................................................................................................................................ 23

3.7 Property Requirements ..................................................................................................... 23

4.0 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS, MITIGATION MEASURES AND COMMITMENTS .............................................. 24

4.1 Natural Environment .......................................................................................................... 26

4.1.1 Erosion and Sediment Control ............................................................................. 26

4.1.2 Vegetation ............................................................................................................ 26

4.1.3 Designated Natural Areas and Significant Wildlife Habitat ................................... 28

4.1.4 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat .................................................................................. 28

4.1.5 Species of Conservation Concern ........................................................................ 30



4.1.6 Fish and Fish Habitat ........................................................................................... 31

4.1.7 Groundwater ........................................................................................................ 33

4.2 Socio-Economic ................................................................................................................. 34

4.2.1 Contaminated Property ........................................................................................ 34

4.2.2 Management of Excess Materials and Dust ......................................................... 35

4.2.3 Landscaping ......................................................................................................... 35

4.2.4 Adjacent Land Uses and Property ....................................................................... 35

4.2.5 Noise .................................................................................................................... 37

4.3 Cultural Environment ......................................................................................................... 37

4.3.1 Archaeological Resources ................................................................................... 37

4.3.2 Built and Cultural Heritage ................................................................................... 38

4.4 Transportation .................................................................................................................... 38

4.4.1 Construction Staging ............................................................................................ 38

4.4.2 Utilities ................................................................................................................. 39

4.4.3 Illumination ........................................................................................................... 39

4.4.4 Emergency Services ............................................................................................ 39

4.4.5 Summary of Environmental Concerns, Mitigation Measures and Commitments . 39

5.0 MONITORING ............................................................................... 47

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 1-1: Study Area Map ......................................................................................................................... 2

Exhibit 1-2: Photo of the Existing Underpass ................................................................................................ 3

Exhibit 1-3: Overview of Class EA Process for Group ‘B’ Projects ............................................................... 5

Exhibit 1-4: Detailed Design Study Key Steps .............................................................................................. 6

Exhibit 2-1: Summary of External Agency Correspondence ....................................................................... 11

Exhibit 3-1: Detailed Design Plan ................................................................................................................ 16

Exhibit 3-2a: Typical Cross-Section ............................................................................................................ 17

Exhibit 3-2b: Typical Cross-Section ............................................................................................................ 18

Exhibit 3-3: General Arrangement ............................................................................................................... 19

Exhibit 3-4: Construction Staging Plan ........................................................................................................ 21

Exhibit 3-5: Detour Plan .............................................................................................................................. 22

Exhibit 4-1: Existing Environmental Conditions ........................................................................................... 25

Exhibit 4-2: Landscape Plan ....................................................................................................................... 36

Exhibit 4-3: Summary of Environmental Concerns and Commitments ....................................................... 40



APPENDICES

Appendix A – Relevant Correspondence

Appendix B – Ontario Government Notices


November 2015 Glossary

GLOSSARY

AANDC - Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada CEAA - Canadian Environmental Assessment Act COSEWIC - Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada COSSARO - Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario DFO - Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canada UTRCA - Upper Thames River Conservation Authority EA Act - Ontario Environmental Assessment Act ESA - Environmentally Sensitive Area G.W.P. - Group Work Project MTCS - Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport MNRF - Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry MOECC - Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change MTO - Ontario Ministry of Transportation NHIC - Natural Heritage Information Centre OPSS - Ontario Provincial Standard Specifications PTTW - Permit To Take Water ROW - Right-of-Way OPP - Ontario Provincial Police SAR - Species at Risk SCC - Species of Conservation Concern SWH- Significant Wildlife Habitat SARA - Species at Risk Act TC - Transport Canada TESR - Transportation Environmental Study Report DCR- Design and Construction Report


November 2015 Page 1

1.0 PROJECT OVERVIEW

1.1 Summary Description of the Undertaking

The Preliminary Design Study completed by MTO in 2013 identified and evaluated replacement

alternatives to address the structural and operational deficiencies of the existing Highway 401

underpass at Highway 19 structure. The study area is located in the Town of Ingersoll and the

Township of Southwest Oxford in Oxford County (refer to Exhibit 1-1). The existing interchange

configuration is seen in Exhibit 1-2. The study was undertaken in accordance with the

requirements of a Group ‘B’ project under the Ministry of Transportation’s (MTO) Class

Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). The selected

alternative from this process was the replacement of the existing structure and the installation of

roundabouts at the existing diamond ramp terminals. This alternative addresses the structural

need by providing a longer structure to accommodate the future expansion of Highway 401 and

reconfigures the existing interchanges and ramp terminals.

A more comprehensive analysis of the existing natural, social, economic and cultural

environmental conditions for the study area is provided in the Transportation Environmental

Study Report (TESR) completed as part of the Preliminary Design study.

MTO initiated the Detailed Design Study in 2014, which builds on the recommended

improvements identified in the TESR. This report documents the environmental aspects of the

Detailed Design and construction for the Highway 401 underpass replacement at Highway 19

and associated interchange improvements. Additional details are provided in Section 3 of this

report.

The Detailed Design plan involves:

► Replacing the Highway 401 Underpass structure at Highway 19 on the existing alignment;

► Construction of two new single-lane roundabouts at the ramp terminals to replace the at-

grade intersections;

► Modifications to the vertical alignment (profile) of Highway 19 to allow for the new deck

depth;

► Re-paving of the carpool lot located on the northwest quadrant of the interchange;

► Realignment of the interchange ramps to accommodate the new roundabouts;

► Storm drainage upgrades (clean out / re-establishment) to accommodate the new design;



► Replacement of all ramp culverts; and

► Replacement/repairs to the median barrier and storm sewer as required.

► Installation of overhead signs on Highway 401 in each direction.

Construction for replacement of the Highway 401 underpass and interchange improvements is

anticipated to last two (2) years and involves the stages as outlined later in Exhibit 3-4. Highway

19 and the carpool lot are expected to be closed for approximately three months. Temporary

lane closures and overnight closures of Highway 401 will be required to complete some

operations.

Exhibit 1-1: Study Area Map



Exhibit 1-2: Photo of the Existing Underpass

1.2 Environmental Assessment Act Process

1.2.1 Ontario Environmental Assessment Act

The MTO Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (Class EA)

was approved under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act in the Fall of 1999 and

amended in 2000. The Class EA defines the group of projects and activities, and the

environmental assessment processes that MTO has committed to follow to plan, design, and

implement these types of projects. Provided that this process is followed, projects and activities

included under the Class EA do not require formal review and approval under the Ontario

Environmental Assessment Act.

This study followed the MTO Class EA process for Group ‘B’ projects, which generally includes

realignments and improvements to existing highways and freeways, new interchanges or

modifications to existing interchanges, new or modified water crossings or watercourse

alterations, or new highway service facilities. Group ‘B’ projects are generally similar in nature,

recur frequently, and have a generally predictable range of environmental effects for which

standard mitigation can be used. The MTO Class EA process for Group ‘B’ projects is shown in

Exhibit 1-3.



Following the Preliminary Design phase, the 2012 Transportation Environmental Study Report

(TESR) for the Highway 401 bridge replacement and interchange improvements at Highway 19

(Plank Road) was prepared and filed for a 30-day review period and, subsequently, received

environmental clearance to proceed in November 2012.

This report addresses the Detailed Design phase and documents how the commitments outlined

in the TESR are being addressed. Design features and refined environmental impact mitigation

measures are also described in the report. Following the MTO Class EA process, Exhibit 1-4

highlights the key steps in this Detailed Design Study.

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EXHIBIT

1-3Highway 401 / Highway 19 Interchange ImprovementsDetailed DesignG.W.P. 3079-09-00

Overview of Class EA Process for Group ‘B’ Projects

EXHIBIT


Detailed Design Study Key Steps



1.2.2 Canadian Environmental Assessment Act

The new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012) and associated

regulations came into effect on July 6, 2012. Under CEAA 2012, an environmental assessment is

required for “designated projects.” A designated project is one that includes one or more physical

activities that are set out in the regulations under CEAA 2012 or by order of the federal Minister

of the Environment and Climate Change.

This Detailed Design and Class EA Study was reviewed by the Project Team against the

Regulations Designating Physical Activities, and it was determined that the study is not

“designated” and therefore will not require consideration of a federal environmental assessment.

Readers interested in obtaining additional information about CEAA 2012 are encouraged to refer

to: www.ceaa.gc.ca.

1.3 Purpose of the Design and Construction Report

This Design and Construction Report (DCR) documents the environmentally significant aspects

of the planning, design and construction of the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass

structure at Highway 19 and associated interchange improvements. This study followed the MTO

Class EA process for a Group ‘B’ project as defined in the Class Environmental Assessment for

Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000).

This DCR has been prepared to:

► describe the design of the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure at Highway 19 and associated interchange improvements;

► describe specific environmental effects associated with the project and proposed mitigation;

► identify measures that have been incorporated into the design and contract drawings;

► address any commitments to future work identified in the TESR;

► detail the impacts on traffic and access during construction of the recommended design; and

► summarize the consultation undertaken with external agencies, affected / adjacent property owners and interested members of the public during Detailed Design.



This DCR is not eligible for a Part II Order (i.e. “bump-up”) under the provisions of the Ontario

Environmental Assessment Act. However, there is an opportunity at any time during the MTO

Class EA process for interested persons to provide comments and review outstanding issues.

The DCR is available for a public and external agency review period from November 11, 2015 to

December 11, 2015. Any concerns raised by members of the public, interested groups, or

technical and external agencies during this review period should be discussed with MTO or their

consultants identified below, as all comments received during the review period will be

considered by the MTO.

Additional information about the Class EA process for Group ‘B’ projects is contained in the

Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000).

Additional information is also available by contacting the key project team members involved in

this project, as follows:

Ms. Alla Dinerman, P. Eng Consultant Project Manager MMM Group Limited 100 Commerce Valley Dr. West Thornhill, ON L3T 0A1 Phone: (905) 882-7212 Toll free: 1-877-562-7947 Fax: (905) 822-0055 E-mail: [email protected]

Mr. Kane Erickson, P. Eng Project Engineer Ministry of Transportation

West Region 659 Exeter Road, 3rd Floor London, ON N6E 1L3

Phone: (519) 873-4565 Toll free: 1-800-265-6072 ext. 5198734565

Fax: (519) 873-4600 E-mail: [email protected]

Mr. Greg Moore, B.E.S. Consultant Environmental Planner

MMM Group Limited 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300 Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8

Phone: (905) 823-8500 ext.1323

Toll free: 1-877-562-7947 Fax: (905) 823-8503

E-mail: [email protected]

Finalization of the contract documentation will proceed after completion of this DCR. There is a

possibility that the final design plans may identify minor design modifications or refinements that

may occur as part of the standard progression of the Detailed Design development.



2.0 CONSULTATION / ENGAGEMENT

Consultation /engagement with external agencies, municipalities, First Nation and Métis

communities and the public was undertaken as part of the project. On December 12, 2014,

project notification letters were mailed to ministries, agencies, municipalities, First Nation and

Métis communities, local school boards, utilities and adjacent property owners to announce

commencement of the Detailed Design study. A copy of this notification is included in Appendix

A. Comment forms were enclosed with the letters to agencies and interest groups to provide the

agencies with an opportunity to express their concerns and comments on the project. Members

of the public were provided a copy of the Notice of Study Commencement that included a link for

the project website.

2.1 External Agency Consultation

Consultation with external agencies was an important part of the study. The following external

agencies (including Federal and Provincial government agencies, municipalities and utilities)

were consulted as part of this study:

Federal and Provincial Government Agencies

► Environment Canada

► Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs

► Ministry of Infrastructure

► Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport

► Ontario Provincial Police

► Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry

► Ministry of Environment and Climate Change

► Upper Thames River Conservation Authority

► Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

Municipalities and Local Agencies

► Town of Ingersoll

► Township of South-West Oxford

► Oxford County

► Town of Tillsonburg

► Thames Valley District School Board

► London District Catholic School Board

► Conseil Scolaire Catholique Providence

► Town of Ingersoll Police Services

► Town of Ingersoll Emergency Services

► Township of South-West Oxford

Emergency Services



► Oxford CountyPublic Health and

Emergency Service

Utilities

► Hydro One

► Rogers Cable Communications

► Bell Canada

► Town of Ingersoll

► Oxford County

Interest Groups

► Ingersoll District Chamber of Commerce

► Ingersoll Recreational Trails Committee

► Oxford County Federation of Agriculture

► Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs

► Oxford County Trails Council

► Siemens Canada

► London Cycling Club

► London Centennial Wheelers

► Southwestern Ontario Student

Transportation Services

► Alexandra Hospital

► Southside Group

The Project Team met with representatives from the Town of Ingersoll, Township of Southwest

Oxford and Oxford County on October 15, 2015 to provide an overview of the proposed

interchange improvements, and review the construction staging and detour plans.

The attendees were supportive of the proposed design and construction staging plans presented

at the meeting. There were discussions about the use of municipal roads for the detours, and

potential compensation for repairs caused by increased traffic volumes during the closures of

Highway 401 and Highway 19. It was advised that the car pool lot at the interchange will also be

closed for approximately 3 months during the same time as the Highway 19 closure for the

construction of the bridge. It was also advised that there are alternative options to park at, such

as the On Route on Highway 401 just east of Foldens Line or the adjacent carpool lot at Elgin Rd

73 further west of Highway 19.

Exhibit 2-1 summarizes the correspondence received from external agencies throughout the

duration of the study and the corresponding response provided by the Project Team.



Exhibit 2-1: Summary of External Agency Correspondence

Agency / Participant Comment Response / Action Taken

Federal Agencies

No comments received from Federal agencies.

Provincial Agencies

No comments received from Provincial agencies.

Municipalities and Local Agencies

Town of Ingersoll – Engineering

Comment received via fax on December 19, 2014 indicating that the Town of Ingersoll is interested in the staging of construction.

Response sent on April 2, 2015 outlining the proposed construction staging plan and proposed closure of Highway 19 and the commuter parking lot for a duration of three (3) months.

Oxford County – Public Works Comment received via fax on January 8, 2015 indicating that Oxford County wishes to participate in the study.

Response sent April 2, 2015 acknowledging receipt of the comment.

Town of Tillsonburg -

Operations/Engineering Services

Voicemail left on January 16, 2015 and comment received via email on January 19, 2015 where the Town of Tillsonburg indicated the following:

The Town requests that Tillsonburg News be added to the newspaper circulation as a means to provide information to residents of Tillsonburg.

Other transportation related improvements in the area is the completion of Provincial Class EA of Hwy 19 from Mt. Elgin to the Town of Tillsonburg and also Hwy 3 from John Pound Road westerly to Carter Road. Construction is scheduled to take place on Hwy 3 during 2015 and Hwy 19 in 2016.

The County of Oxford is currently reconstructing North Street east of Broadway, in the Town of Tillsonburg. The first phase is complete and phases two and three remain. Phase two is scheduled to be constructed in 2015 and phase 3 in 2016.

The Town would like to remain informed throughout the study as it progresses.

Response sent via email on January 23, 2015, acknowledging receipt of the comment and thanking Tillsonburg for bringing the current transportation initiatives to the Project Team’s attention. The adjacent transportation projects by the Town and the County will be considered in the design and construction of this project and the Tillsonburg News will be added to the newspaper publication list for any future advertising.



Agency / Participant Comment Response / Action Taken

Oxford County – Public Works Comment received via fax on January 19, 2015 indicating that Oxford County has an interest in County Road 119 north of 401.

Response sent April 2, 2015 indicating that during construction Highway 19 and the carpool parking lot will be closed for approximately three (3) months, and that the Project Team would like to meet with Oxford County to discuss the proposed construction staging as the design progresses.

Upper Thames River Conservation

Authority (UTRCA)

Comment received via email on December 24, 2014 indicating UTRCA’s regulated areas and interest in hydraulic considerations, terrestrial and aquatic ecology.

Response sent April 2, 2015 indicating the Project Team has forwarded the information to the project biologists / ecologists, and that field investigations were completed to assess the existing conditions and look for species at risk and migratory birds.

Utilities

Communication with utility providers about utility relocations are ongoing with the Project Team.



2.2 Public Consultation

A public mailing list was created and updated throughout the study. The list built upon the

contact list from Preliminary Design Study. This list includes:

► Property owners (residential and businesses) adjacent to the underpass and interchange

improvements (the list from the Preliminary Design phase was confirmed or updated

based on title searches using Geowarehouse).

► Any other individuals or interest groups who contacted the Project Team throughout the

study, including those via email, mail, fax or the ‘Contact Us’ feature on the project

website.

A copy of the newspaper Notice of Study Commencement for the Detailed Design Study is

included in Appendix B. The Ontario Government Notice was advertised in the Ingersoll Times

newspaper on December 17, 2014, and in the Woodstock Sentinel-Review on December 18,

2014.

2.2.1 Project Website

The project website (http://highway401-hwy19andnorwichave.ca/highway-19/) was launched to

coincide with the Study Commencement notification on December 12, 2014, and has remained

active throughout the study. The website has been regularly updated throughout the course of

the study.

The website provides an opportunity for the public and stakeholders to review up-to-date study

information and content, download study materials and reports, and contact the Project Team

through the project email address ([email protected]), which

is provided on the “Contact Us” page. The “Contact Us” page also includes a webform feature,

where comments can be entered and sent directly to the Project Team from the website to

facilitate feedback from interested parties at any time during the project.

2.3 First Nations and Métis Engagement

First Nations and Métis communities, as well as related organizations and agencies, were

contacted by the Project Team at key milestones throughout the study.

At the beginning of the study, inquiries were submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Aboriginal

Affairs (MAA) to request information on Aboriginal communities that may have an interest in the

study.



At key project milestones throughout the study, MTO sent notification letters to the following First

Nations and Métis communities:

► Chippewas of the Thames First

Nation

► Moravian of the Thames

► Métis Nation of Ontario

► Six Nations of the Grand River

Territory

► Six Nations - Haudenosaunee

Confederacy Chiefs Countilk

► Aamjiwnaang First Nation

► Caldwell First Nation

► Walpole Island First Nation

► Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point

► Munsee Delaware First Nation

► Oneida Nation of the Thames First

Nation

Correspondence has been received from the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation and

Aamjiwnaang First Nation, acknowledging receipt of the correspondence. No issues were

identified.



3.0 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE RECOMMENDED DESIGN

This section of the report describes the major features of the proposed work, environmental

issues and commitments and provides a summary of the environmental effects and proposed

mitigation.

3.1 Major Features of the Bridge Replacement

The initial stage involves the removal and replacement of the existing Highway 401 underpass

structure on the existing alignment.

The recommended structure consists of a two-lane bridge with two-spans and a total length of

76.0 m. This structure will accommodate future widening of Highway 401, as proposed in the

“ultimate stage” outlined in the Transportation Environmental Study Report.

Each lane will be 3.50 m wide, and the structure will include 2.50 m shoulders.

The bridge is being constructed with accelerated construction techniques of a Get-in Get-out

(GiGo) construction strategy. The GiGo strategy involves pre-fabrication of the substructure and

superstructure components off-site. When all components have been fabricated they are

transported to the bridge site and assembled thereby reducing the on-site construction duration

and associated disruption to traffic.

3.2 Interchange Improvements

In addition to replacing the Highway 401 underpass, improvements will be made to the Highway

19 profile, interchange ramps and ramp terminals. Highway 19 will be raised by approximately

0.4m through the interchange to provide the minimum desirable clearance of 5.20 m for the

Highway 401 underpass.

The existing interchange configuration of the diamond ramp terminals is maintained. The ramp

terminals will be slightly shifted to accommodate the new Highway 19 profile.

Two single-lane roundabouts will be constructed at each of the ramp terminals, to replace the

existing at-grade intersection ramp terminals.

Exhibit 3-1 illustrates the final Detailed Design plan and Exhibit 3-2a and Exhibit 3-2b shows

the typical sections. The general arrangement for the proposed design are shown in Exhibit 3-3.

EXHIBIT


Detailed Design Plan

EXHIBIT

3-2aHighway 401 / Highway 19 Interchange ImprovementsDetailed DesignG.W.P. 3079-09-00

Typical Cross Sections

EXHIBIT

3-2bHighway 401 / Highway 19 Interchange ImprovementsDetailed DesignG.W.P. 3079-09-00

Typical Cross Sections

EXHIBIT


General Arrangement



3.3 Drainage

For the initial stage, all ramp culverts (one for each ramp) will be replaced. The culverts will be

replaced because they are in poor condition. The median storm sewer at Highway 401 will be

relocated due to the location of the new bridge piers.

Drainage within the vicinity of the roundabouts will be accomplished with the use of curb and

gutter and the installation of drainage structures that will outlet to roadside ditches.

3.4 Construction Staging and Traffic Management

Construction for replacement of the Highway 401 underpass and interchange improvements is

anticipated to last one (1) year and involves the stages as outlined in Exhibit 3-4 below.

The recommended strategy involved closing the Highway 401 crossing at Highway 19 and the

carpool parking lot for the duration of approximately three (3) months. During this time, the

proposed traffic management plan is to detour traffic onto Highway 401 to adjacent interchanges

at Foldens Line to the east and Culloden Road to the west. Overnight closures of Highway 401

will be required for the demolition of the existing structure, erection of the girders and related

activities.

At the start of the Detailed Design process, it was confirmed that by using accelerated

construction techniques, the bridge construction reduces the amount of time the highway

crossing is closed (approximately 3 months). The bridge and carpool parking lot will be closed

during construction. The ramps to- and from- the highway will remain open during the bridge

closure with detours directing traffic to adjacent highway crossings at Foldens Line and Culloden

Road.

Exhibit 3-5 shows the proposed detour plan. Short-term traffic closures will be required, as

outlined below. The construction staging strategy outlined below may be subject to change as

the Detailed Design progresses.



Exhibit 3-4: Construction Staging Plan

Construction Stage

Traffic Construction Staging Activity

Stage 1

Traffic remains on the existing bridge and ramp terminals.

The north-west and south-west new directional ramps are constructed, including ditching.

Hwy 401 median sewer are relocated and median shoulders are reinstated

Stage 2A

Highway 401 is reduced to two lanes in each direction

Highway 19 is closed between the ramp terminals including the carpool lot. Through traffic is not permitted.

Traffic is still permitted to use the on- and off- ramp terminals.

Highway 19 traffic is re-route onto Highway 401 to adjacent interchanges at Culloden Road to the west and Foldens Line to the east.

The Highway 401 Underpass will be demolished during a nightly closure that redirects Highway 401 traffic to the ramp terminals.

The pier, abutments, Highway 19 and roundabouts will be constructed.

Stage 2B

Traffic is the same as in Stage 2A

The Highway 401 shoulder widening, remaining abutments, Highway 19 and roundabouts will be constructed.

Stage 3

Highway 401 is closed between Culloden Road and Foldens Line for the erection of girders

Highway 19 remains closed at the ramp terminals.

Traffic is permitted to use the newly constructed on- and off- ramp terminals.

Erect the new bridge girder during a nightly closure that redirects Highway 401 traffic to adjacent interchanges (this operation is required for two separate nights)

Construct superstructure, Highway 19 and roundabouts

Pave Highway 19 and roundabouts.

Mill and pave carpool lot.

Stage 4

Highway 19 traffic on the newly constructed roadway and roundabouts.

Rolling nightly closure is required for the construction of the ramp culverts. Only one ramp is closed at any one time.

Construct culvert and the remaining work for the ramp.

Note: As noted in Construction Stage 2, Highway 19 (Plank Line) and the carpool parking lot will be closed for approximately three months from June to August 2016 to accommodate construction.

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EXHIBIT


Detour Plan



3.5 Illumination

Partial illumination will be provided at the interchange ramps. Full illumination will be provided

along Highway 19 between the approaches to the roundabout.

3.6 Utilities

Relocation strategies are being developed during Detailed Design in consultation with impacted

utility companies (Bell, Rogers, Hydro One). Bell has underground utilities on the east side of the

Highway 19 Underpass as well as on the existing structure. Rogers has overhead cable on the

west side of Highway 19 that share utility poles with Hydro One. These utilities will be relocated

prior to construction.

3.7 Property Requirements

The interchange improvements will require the acquisition of approximately 0.22 ha of private

property from the northwest quadrant of the interchange. The existing land use is an agricultural

field. Property owners have been advised by MTO and consulted on the project throughout the

Detailed Design stage.



4.0 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS, MITIGATION MEASURES AND COMMITMENTS

This section outlines the direct and indirect environmental effects associated with the project. It

also describes the mitigation measures that will be implemented to minimize the effects and

ensure compliance with legislated requirements. Exhibit 4-1 illustrates the existing

environmental features at the interchange.

Mitigation includes planning decisions, design features, construction requirements, and

construction constraints. The mitigation measures documented in this report have been

developed with due consideration for the potential adverse effects of the project. The identified

mitigation measures have been carried forward into the Detailed Design and will be applied

during the construction of the project, as applicable. Refinements and enhancements to the

mitigation measures will be made as warranted throughout to ensure that this project does not

result in any significant adverse environmental effects.

The key to ensuring effective environmental quality control and risk management during the

project is the development and proactive implementation of an approach that:

► identifies the environmental sensitivities;

► presents environmental protection measures in a way that can be translated into contractual requirements and for which compliance can be verified;

► includes a monitoring program that verifies that the environmental protection measures are being implemented and are effective.

It is important to ensure that the Contract Administrator and Contractor are made aware of, and

are prepared to deal with, all environmental issues that may arise during construction.

Environmental controls will be included in the contract documents to address specific

environmental and operational concerns.

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Dry-Moist Old Field Cultural MeadowScotch Pine Coniferous PlantationTrembling Aspen Mineral Deciduous SwampReed-Canary Grass Mineral Meadow MarshFresh-Moist Sugar Maple - White ElmDeciduous Forest

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Bridge Deck Outline

Drainage Culvert(Indirect Fish Use)

Pavement Markings

Concrete Curb

Edge of Pavement

Edge of Paved Shoulder

Vegetation Communities

Tile Drain

Watercourse - Coldwater

Flow Direction

EXHIBIT


Existing Conditions



4.1 Natural Environment

4.1.1 Erosion and Sediment Control

Erosion and sediment control measures will be implemented during all phases of construction to

prevent sediment-laden runoff from entering any of the watercourses directly from the

construction zone. Erosion and sediment control measures will be implemented prior to

construction and will be maintained throughout construction as per Ontario Provincial Standard

Specification (OPSS) 805.

Erosion and sediment best management control practices will be designed and implemented in

accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation’s Environmental Guide for Erosion and

Sediment Control During Construction of Highway Projects (February 2007).

4.1.2 Vegetation

Terrestrial ecosystem assessments were undertaken in general accordance with the MTO’s

(June 2009) Environmental Guide for Highway Design (ERD). Background information was

reviewed, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) Natural Heritage Information

Centre (NHIC) database was queried, and a terrestrial field survey was conducted on October

29, 2014.

Natural vegetation features are limited to the riparian and floodplain habitats present along Hall’s

Creek and an adjacent forest feature located in the northeast quadrant of the interchange. The

MTO right-of-way in the vicinity of the interchange has been modified through past activities

related to highway corridor construction and maintenance, and adjacent commercial and

agricultural land uses. The majority of the existing MTO right-of-way has been cleared to

accommodate highway shoulders and side slopes of bridge approaches. Vegetation in the non-

paved / non-shoulder portions of the ROW is limited to cultural meadow and meadow marsh

(associated with the banks and floodplain of Hall’s Creek) communities. Species found within the

ROW are generally tolerant roadside species that are common throughout the broader

landscape.

A total of 75 vegetation species were recorded during the field survey conducted in 2014. Four

additional plants were identified to genus only. No Species at Risk, other Species of

Conservation Concern, or locally rare species were recorded. One provincially uncommon (S4)

species was recorded in the deciduous swamp north of Highway 401, along Hall’s Creek – Black

Walnut (Juglans nigra).



Five distinct vegetation units have been delineated in the vicinity of the interchange, as shown

previously in Exhibit 4-1. Dry-Moist Old Field Meadow is present on the highway embankment

slopes and comprises the majority of the vegetation within the MTO right-of-way throughout the

interchange. It is comprised mainly of common roadside / old field meadow species.

Reed Canary Grass Mineral Meadow Marsh is present along the banks and floodplain of Hall’s

Creek in the vicinity of the interchange. To the north, this community comprises a small portion of

the riparian / floodplain area immediately downstream of the culvert, mainly beyond the MTO

right-of-way.

Three vegetation communities located beyond the existing MTO right-of-way include:

► Poplar Mineral Deciduous Swamp – in the northeast quadrant, along the Hall’s Creek

floodplain.

► Fresh-Moist Sugar Maple – White Elm Deciduous Forest - east of the Hall’s Creek floodplain

and north of Highway 401.

► Scotch Pine Coniferous Plantation – east of the Hall’s Creek floodplain, south of Highway

401.

The impacts to vegetation communities related to the interchange improvement works will be

limited to localized disturbance and removal of tolerant cultural meadow vegetation, and

potentially some scattered trees and shrubs within the MTO right-of-way. Construction staging

plans are further being refined, but the works will primarily be conducted from the existing

highway surface and paved shoulder areas.

None of the potentially impacted vegetation communities or associated plant species recorded or

expected in the area or their habitat values is provincially rare or limiting within the general area.

Vegetation likely to be removed or disturbed due to construction or access consists primarily of

early successional / disturbance tolerant species growing immediately adjacent to the highways,

growing in areas already impacted to some degree by highway maintenance activities. Following

re-stabilization and seeding of the temporarily disturbed areas, similar vegetation is expected to

regenerate naturally in those areas of the MTO right-of-way.



4.1.3 Designated Natural Areas and Significant Wildlife Habitat

Provincially Designated Areas

Based on information available in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) Natural

Heritage Information Centre and Land Information Ontario databases and information provided by

MNRF Aylmer District, there are no provincially designated natural areas or Significant Wildlife

Habitat (SWH) present within 200 m of the interchange. However, Hall’s Creek valley likely

functions as a local wildlife movement corridor. The culvert may provide limited seasonal

functionality as a corridor under Highway 401, for some small mammals and frogs.

Regionally Designated Areas

The County of Oxford Official Plan maps the Hall’s Creek valley in the vicinity of Highway 401 as

“significant valleylands” in Schedule C-1. However, the Official Plan does not clearly define

“significant valleylands”, or the implications they may have on development projects, and defers

property-scale definition of valleyland boundaries to the Upper Thames River Conservation

Authority (UTRCA). Section 3.2.4.2.4 of the Official Plan it states:

► “At a property scale, these features may not be a reliable indicator of significant valleylands.

The presence of significant valleylands in a particular development proposal will be

confirmed by the Conservation Authority with jurisdiction during the development review

process.”

No impacts to the Significant Valleylands are anticipated during the proposed Detailed Design

plan for the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure and the associated interchange

improvements.

4.1.4 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat

The area in the vicinity of the Highway 401 and Highway 19 interchange provides habitat for a

variety of urban, grassland, riparian and forest edge species.

Mammals

Sign (tracks) of White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) was recorded during the field survey in

the meadow marsh community along Hall’s Creek, north of Highway 401. However, the local

habitats likely support a range of mammals often found in similar habitats, including: Eastern

Chipmunk (Tamias striatus), Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), Gray Squirrel (Sciurus

carolinensis), Groundhog (Marmota monax), Raccoon (Procyon lotor), Striped Skunk (Mephitis

mephitis), and a number of small mammals that often go undetected, such as shrews, voles, mice

and bats. None of these species, however, is dependent on habitat solely available in the

immediate vicinity of the interchange.



Herpetofauna

No herpetofauna were observed during the field survey. However, the general area likely

supports a range of amphibian and reptile species often found in similar habitats, including:

American Toad (Anaxyrus americanus), Dekay’s Brownsnake (Storeria dekayi), Eastern

Gartersnake (Thamnophis sirtalis), Eastern Red-backed Salamander (Plethodon cinereus),

Eastern Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis sauritus) and Gray Treefrog (Hyla versicolor).

Turtles often use well drained gravel road shoulders for nesting purposes. Ideal nest sites for

turtles tend to face south or west with little overhead cover, have gravely, sandy or loamy soil, and

are within a few metres of water (Brooks 2007). Thus, turtles may use the gravel road shoulders

present near Hall’s Creek for nesting purposes. However, MMM did not observe any evidence of

turtle nesting (e.g., shells, past nest predation) in the vicinity of Hall’s Creek. Turtle basking

habitat along the banks of Hall’s Creek is limited by the creek’s narrow dimensions (~2.7 to 3.7 m

wetted width at the time of the 2014 survey) and north-south orientation. Given the shallow depth

of water in the creek (~0.12 to 0.54 m deep at the time of the 2014 survey), turtle hibernation is

also unlikely. Based on this information, overall turtle habitat within Hall’s Creek is considered to

be limited.

Birds

No bird species were recorded during the field survey likely due to the field survey being

conducted outside of the breeding bird season. However, nests of one SAR bird – Barn Swallow

(Threatened) – were observed inside of the Hall’s Creek culvert.

The general area likely supports a range of bird species often found in similar habitats, such as

American Robin (Turdus migratorius), Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), Rock Pigeon

(Columba livia), Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe),

(Sayornis phoebe) and Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus). The Hall’s Creek culvert

and the Highway 401 underpass may provide nesting opportunities for some of these or other

birds, although no other nests were found.

Wildlife habitat impacts are generally similar to those described for vegetation (i.e., ‘temporary’

loss of tolerant, early successional habitat which is expected to quickly regenerate post-

construction). The culvert, which currently provides habitat for nesting Barn Swallow, will not be

impacted by the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure and the associated

interchange improvements. Although there is always some potential that the Underpass

structure might be used by nesting migratory birds (with potential to include Barn Swallow

nesting) in some years, this potential is considered low based there being no nests observed

over two survey years and the nature of the structure. There is some potential for migratory birds

to nest in vegetation that will be removed / disturbed for construction.



4.1.5 Species of Conservation Concern

Prior to field surveys, a screening of Species of Conservation Concern with potential to be present

within the project limits was completed. A ‘long list’ of 27 terrestrial SCC (7 plant species and 20

wildlife species) was compiled for the screening, based on background resources (i.e.,

Preliminary Design Reports, NHIC records, and MNRF / UTRCA consultation), including Species

at Risk known to occur within Oxford County generally (MNRF Regional List). Those species that

were considered to have at least some potential to occur in the general vicinity of the bridge sites

were surveyed for generally (subject to time of year) during the field investigations, and habitat

conditions were assessed in terms of potential suitability.

SCC Confirmed in the Field

The only SCC confirmed using habitat in the area of the interchange during the survey’s carried

out during Preliminary and Detailed Design Phases was the Barn Swallow:

► Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) – designated as Threatened by COSEWIC and COSSARO

and protected as a Threatened species under the SARA and the ESA. No birds were

observed; however, Barn Swallow nests were observed inside the Hall’s Creek culvert. Barn

Swallow nests were also recorded on the culvert during the Preliminary Design surveys. While

no nests have been observed on the Highway 401 Underpass, and nesting is unlikely given

the absence of nests on two occasions and the site-specific conditions (i.e., Highway 401

Underpass and not over water), there is always some possibility that Barn Swallow could nest

on it in subsequent years.

SCC with Potential to Occur

There is suitable habitat for several additional SAR in the vicinity of the interchange. However,

there are no known records of these species in the vicinity of the project area. Despite the

presence of potentially suitable habitat conditions, only the following SAR were considered as

having reasonable potential to occur in the vicinity of the interchange:

► Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella magna) – designated as Threatened by COSEWIC and

COSSARO and protected as Threatened under the ESA. Not confirmed on site, but known to

occur in Oxford County. This species has some potential to occur in cultural meadow / old

field areas in the vicinity of the interchange, namely the area south of the EB on-ramp. ► Eastern Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis) – designated as Special

Concern by COSEWIC and COSSARO and protected as Special Concern under SARA and

the ESA. Not confirmed on site, but known to occur in Oxford County. There is some

potential for this species to use the riparian habitats along Hall’s Creek, both north and south

of Highway 401, and potentially the ROW portions where these habitats are contiguous.



► Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum) – designated as Special Concern by COSEWIC and

COSSARO and protected as Special Concern under SARA and the ESA. Not confirmed on

site, but known to occur in Oxford County. The habitat mosaic surrounding the interchange

provides suitable general habitat, especially in the vicinity of Hall’s Creek where a variety of

habitat types are present. Therefore, there is some potential for this species to move through

the ROW or use the habitats in the vicinity of the interchange as part of the broader habitat

mosaic. ► Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) – designated as Special Concern by COSEWIC and

COSSARO and protected as Special Concern under SARA and the ESA. Not confirmed on

site, but known to occur in Oxford County. There is some potential for this species to use

habitat associated with Hall’s Creek north of Highway 401 during the active season (no

hibernation habitat present). Habitat to the south of Highway 401 is limited by higher

velocities.

There is always some possibility for other bird and bat SAR to forage incidentally within the ROW

as part of their broader foraging habitat along the Hall’s Creek valley; however, there is no

suitable breeding habitat on or immediately adjacent to the interchange for any of these species

other than Barn Swallow (THR) and Eastern Meadowlark (THR), as discussed above.

Potential for the remaining SCC (for which suitable habitat is available generally in the vicinity of

the project area) to be present is considered very low.

4.1.6 Fish and Fish Habitat

Hall’s Creek is a small/moderately-sized, permanent tributary of the Thames River. The subject

reaches of the channel are well-defined and meandering, flowing generally northwest along the

east side of the Highway 401 interchange at Highway 19. The creek drains agricultural fields

southeast of the interchange and flows through the Elmhurst Inn and Spa northeast of the

interchange, ultimately outfalling to the Thames River ~ 4.3 km north of the Town of Ingersoll.

Two other drainage features are present within the interchange (within the ROW) that drain to

Hall’s Creek. Based on this downstream connectivity to Hall’s Creek, these small ditch drainage

features are considered to support indirect or contributing fish habitat (i.e., provide nutrients and

allochthonous inputs to Hall’s Creek), albeit localized/limited. These features were constructed to

convey drainage from the interchange to the creek. Flows are seasonal, when runoff events

occur, consistent with the fully vegetated nature of the low ditches. No erosion was evident.



Hall’s Creek is classified as coldwater by MNRF, with localized records of Brown Trout (Salmo

trutta) approximately 800 m downstream of the interchange behind the Elmhurst Inn and Spa.

The fish community in the immediate vicinity of the interchange/culvert includes diverse

warm/coolwater species such as Common Shiner (Luxilus cornutus), Creek Chub (Semotilus

atromaculatus), Blacknose Dace (Rhinichthys obtusus), Bluntose Minnow (Pimephales notatus),

Fantail Darter (Etheostoma flabellare), Rock Bass (Ambloplites rupestris), Johnny Darter

(Etheostoma nigrum), Hornyhead Chub (Nocomis biguttatus), White Sucker (Catostomus

commersonii), and numerous other bait/forage species. Baitfish were observed throughout the

subject reaches during the field surveys. As noted, watercress was present throughout Hall’s

Creek and Mayberry Drain, indicating potential groundwater influence, consistent with the

coldwater habitat classification.

The fish impact assessment was undertaken following the MTO Environmental Guide for Fish and

Fish Habitat protocol, and included the sensitivity ranking provided by MNRF during Preliminary

Design. As noted, MNRF staff considers Hall’s Creek to be a coldwater fishery and ranked the

sensitivity of the fish and fish habitat at the highway crossing as High. Based on the 2013

MTO/DFO/OMNR Protocol, MMM has assessed and ranked the sensitivity of fish and fish habitat

at the crossing as Moderate, conservatively, based on the coldwater classification and evidence

of groundwater contributions, and resident warm/coolwater bait/forage community in the ROW

reaches but presence of coldwater top predator sport fish (Brown Trout) downstream. The habitat

conditions are well represented habitat and no specialized or sensitive habitat features were

identified in the vicinity of the highway ROW reaches.

Since there are no in-water works required in Hall’s Creek for the Highway 401 underpass

structure and associated interchange improvements, impacts relating to the underpass

replacement and associated interchange improvements should be limited to potential for indirect

or secondary impacts as a result of construction activities near Hall’s Creek. The construction

zones/work areas required to construct the bridge replacement and interchange improvements

are anticipated to extend to within approximately 30 m of Hall’s Creek on the north and south

sides of the highway.

As well, the replacement of two ramp culverts that convey the small drainage ditch features under

the ramps and associated clean out / re-establishment of these ditches are also sources of

potential for secondary transfer of impacts to Hall’s Creek. As noted, the drainage ditches can

also be considered to provide some limited contributing habitat function by virtue of their

connectivity, however the key concern is potential for downstream transfer of indirect or

secondary impacts to Hall’s Creek.



Potential indirect impacts relate primarily to:

► Potential for erosion following vegetation removal and disturbance of the existing

embankments and other areas within the interchange that drain ultimately to Hall’s Creek,

and associated migration of sediment to the creek. The sandy/gravel embankment slopes

are anticipated to be susceptible to erosion, with associated enhanced potential for

sediment migration to the creek. Re-stabilization of disturbed surfaces following

construction will also be important to avoid potential for on-going erosion;

► Similar potential for erosion and sediment generation during and following replacement of

the ramp culverts and construction of the other drainage-related works; and

► Potential for other indirect construction related impacts (e.g. construction debris,

contaminant release as a result of improper equipment use, maintenance, storage etc.,

sediment release from improperly contained spoil), all of which can be managed with the

implementation of standard mitigation measures.

The potential impacts of the proposed works can be managed with the proper implementation of

construction-related mitigation measures. However as highlighted, the soil conditions may be

susceptible to erosion on disturbance and vegetation removal, requiring careful attention to

erosion and sediment control and site re-stabilization.

With the proper installation and monitoring of the mitigation measures outlined below, and

specifically the erosion and sediment control mitigation measures, potential impacts to fish and

fish habitat in Hall’s Creek should be avoided such that risk to the fish and fish habitat is very low

and the project will not result in serious harm to fish.

4.1.7 Groundwater

The Highway 401 Highway 19 interchange is located within a portion of the physiographic region

known as the Oxford Till Plain. The Study Area is covered by a spillway surrounding Hall’s Creek

in the central area and is flanked by till plains on both the northeast and southwest sides.

Drumlins are located to the east of the study area within the till plain.

The study area is dominated by modern alluvium / gravel deposits from southeast to northwest,

in the central portion, bordering Hall’s Creek. Sand and gravel flank either side of the alluvium

deposits to the north and northwest, and extend out of the study area in a southern direction.

Sand deposits are also present in the northeastern section of the study area. A small pocket of

glacial silt till (Port Stanley Till) deposits is found near the southwestern edge of the study area.

Silt to sandy silt glacial till (Tavistock Till) deposits are present throughout the remainder of the

study area and are dominant in the east and west sides of the study area.



The site topography slopes gently from both northwest and southeast, towards Hall’s Creek,

which runs from south to north in the central-east portion of the study area. Stormwater run-off

within the study area is primarily from impervious surfaces in residential and commercial areas,

and from natural areas.

Surface watercourses, present in close proximity to the interchange improvements within the

study area, are generally highly susceptible to construction impacts, while areas with directed

surface water have a medium surface water susceptibility to impacts.

Presence of sand, sand and gravel and alluvium deposits in the study area indicates that the

area near the southeast and north of planned interchange improvements has a high groundwater

susceptibility to contamination from surface activities. There is also high groundwater

susceptibility to contamination in the western portion of the Study Area, due to presence of Well

Head Protection Areas, and alluvium deposits within Hall’s Creek.

Spills prevention and spills management requirements are included in the contract to minimize

the likelihood of any adverse effects to groundwater and surface water during construction.

Permit to Take Water (PTTW)

In accordance with the Ontario Water Resource Act, the diversion of surface water or the

extraction of groundwater in excess of 50,000 litres per day requires a Permit to Take Water

(PTTW) to be obtained from the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change

(MOECC). Construction activities for replacement of the Highway 401 underpass at Highway 19

may result in water takings. However, based on limited duration and limited excavation areas in

low-permeability soils, it is expected that groundwater seepage in excavations can be locally

managed by sump pumps. The total volume of groundwater is not expected to exceed 50,000

litres per day.

4.2 Socio-Economic

4.2.1 Contaminated Property

During Preliminary Design, a Contamination Overview Study was completed to identify

properties and land uses with the potential for soil or groundwater contamination. Given the

surrounding agricultural, commercial and industrial operations may use fuels, fertilizers,

herbicides and pesticides on the fields bordering the interchange improvements. These activities

have the low potential for contamination. All excess materials are to be managed in accordance

with Ontario Provincial Standards Specification (OPSS) 180.



4.2.2 Management of Excess Materials and Dust

During construction, surplus material such as old pavement, guardrail materials, and concrete

will be generated. These excess materials and debris should be removed and disposed of at an

approved facility, in accordance with OPSS 180. Standard mitigation measures will be used for

dust control during construction.

4.2.3 Landscaping

Landscaping considerations have been included in the construction of the roundabouts. It is

recommended that low maintenance, salt tolerant vegetation will be used for the central island of

the roundabout.

A landscape plan has been developed to minimize the loss of existing vegetation and new

plantings inside the proposed roundabout central island, as seen in Exhibit 4-2. For the

roundabout central island, the landscape treatment is designed to ensure the sight lines are not

obstructed by the height of the shrubs and trees, while at the same time consideration has been

given to the safe movement of traffic entering and circulating around the roundabout by

obstructing the ‘straight through’ sightline so it is clear to go around.

Landscaping detail is subject to modification later in the Detailed Design phase and during

construction due to refinement of design, species availability and field placement of materials.

The plan will emphasize the use of native species of vegetation.

Protecting existing vegetation and limiting vegetation removals will maintain the existing

landscape at the Highway 401 and Highway 19 interchange.

4.2.4 Adjacent Land Uses and Property

Residential, commercial and agricultural land uses surround the interchange. A carpool parking

lot exists within MTO’s right of way in the northwest quadrant, between Highway 401 and the on

north/south-west ramp. Agricultural fields, with residential dwellings and farm buildings surround

the interchange. The Elm Hurst Inn & Spa (hotel, resort and spa) is located on the northeast

quadrant of the interchange.

Official land use designations can be found in Oxford County’s Official Plan (2009), which is

currently undergoing a 5 year review.

The Elm Hurst Inn & Spa property will be marked as an Environmentally Sensitive Area that will

be off-limits to the placement of fill or other materials during construction and equipment will not

be permitted to operate on the property.

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EXHIBIT


Roundabout Landscape Plan



There is the potential for residents and local businesses to experience temporary disruption

during construction due to the proposed construction staging and traffic management plan. This

includes closing Highway 19 at Highway 401 and the carpool parking lot for the duration of

approximately three (3) months.

Minor property (0.22 ha) will be required in the northwest quadrant to accommodate the ramp tie-

ins to the roundabouts at the north ramp terminal. MTO is negotiating with property owners to

obtain the property required to complete the proposed works.

4.2.5 Noise

There is the likelihood of generating temporary construction noise during construction.

Construction noise may be noticeable for some periods and types of work, however, impacts can

be minimized with adequate controls.

Standard mitigation measures will be implemented to keep construction noise impacts to a

minimum. The Contractor will be required to keep idling of construction equipment to a minimum

and to maintain equipment in good working order to reduce noise resulting from construction

activities.

If complaints regarding construction noise arise during construction, they will be investigated

according to the provisions of the MTO Noise Guide (October 2006). The Guide states that any

initial complaint from the public will require verification by MTO that the general noise control

measures agreed to are in effect. If not, MTO will warn the Contractor of any problems, and

enforce its contract.

Noise By-law Exemption

Night work will be required during construction. As such, a noise by-law exemption was

submitted to the Town of Ingersoll and the Township of Southwest Oxford on October 27, 2015

to seek approval to perform construction activities outside of the hours permitted in the by-law.

4.3 Cultural Environment

4.3.1 Archaeological Resources

A Stage 1 and 2 Archaeological Assessment was completed during the Preliminary Design

Study, which determined that a significant portion of the study area adjacent to Highway 401 and

Highway 19 has been previously disturbed and does not have archaeological potential.



A Stage 2 Assessment was completed for areas that could potentially be impacted by grading

operations. A find spot was identified north of Highway 401. It was identified as a historic find

spot with a cellar that resulted in architectural and domestic materials.

During Detailed Design, a Stage 3 Archaeological Assessment was completed between

November 6 and November 11, 2014. The excavations uncovered over 6,000 artifacts that were

classified using Canada Parks Classification System for Historical Collections. The Stage 3

Archaeological Assessment Report has been entered into the Ontario Public Register of

Archaeological Reports.

Based on the background information and Stage 3 excavation, it is recommended that a Stage 4

archaeological assessment is not required.

In the event of the discovery of archaeological remains or if deeply buried archaeological

remains are encountered during construction activities, the MTCS will be notified immediately

and work in the area shall stop. Any person discovering human remains must immediately notify

the police or coroner and the Registrar of Cemeteries, Ministry of Government Services.

4.3.2 Built and Cultural Heritage

The underpass structure has been screened in accordance with the MTO Heritage Bridge

Guidelines during Preliminary Design. This screening concluded that the underpass is not a

heritage structure.

4.4 Transportation

4.4.1 Construction Staging

Traffic construction staging will be implemented to minimize interruptions to traffic flow as much

as possible during construction. Section 3.0 provides an overview of the construction staging

strategy during construction.

Advance road signage notifying motorists of the construction and detour route will be provided

prior to the start of construction and closures.

The municipalities, local emergency medical services and the Ontario Provincial Police will be

notified of construction staging, start of construction, etc. to minimize delay in emergency

response times during.



4.4.2 Utilities

As noted in Section 3.6., an inventory of existing utilities has been prepared. The utilities on the

existing bridge (Bell, Rogers and Hydro One) require relocation within the project limits. These

will be relocated prior to and during construction. There are no other utility impacts anticipated.

4.4.3 Illumination

Full illumination will be provided at the roundabouts and their approaches. In addition, Highway

19 (Plank Line) between the roundabouts, including the carpool parking lot, will be fully

illuminated.

4.4.4 Emergency Services

Notification will be sent to OPP, municipalities and emergency services to advise them of the

detailed construction staging plan and the timing for construction. Access for EMS vehicles will

be permitted during construction of the roundabouts, but through traffic on Highway 19 is not

permitted. Consultation with OPP, municipalities and emergencies services will be carried out as

required to ensure emergency response times are maintained during and after construction.

4.4.5 Summary of Environmental Concerns, Mitigation Measures and Commitments

Exhibit 4-3 summarizes the identified environmental concerns and proposed mitigating

measures, based on the identified environmental sensitivities and the Detailed Design plans.



Exhibit 4-3: Summary of Environmental Concerns and Commitments

Environmental Issue / Concern Agencies Proposed Mitigation

Natural Environment (See Section 4.1 for further details)

Erosion and Sediment Control Activities associated with the

construction of the proposed improvements may result in erosion.

MTO

MOECC

MNRF

Erosion and sediment control measures will be implemented during all phases of construction, clean-up and restoration to prevent sediment laden runoff from entering any adjacent vegetated areas.

Erosion and sediment control measures will be implemented prior to construction and will be maintained throughout construction as per Ontario Provincial Standard Specification (OPSS) 805.

Erosion and sediment best management control practices will be designed and implemented in accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation’s Environmental Guide for Erosion and Sediment Control During Construction of Highway Projects (February 2007).

Vegetation Removal of vegetation within the

highway right-of-way.

MTO

MNRF

MOECC

UTRCA

Re-stabilize and re-vegetate exposed surfaces as soon as possible following disturbance.

Clearly delineate ROW vegetation clearing zones and vegetation retention zones and protect vegetation that does not require removal for construction (e.g., using silt fencing as shown on GA) on both the Contract drawings and in the field with the Contractor prior to clearing and grading. Equipment, materials and other construction activities will not be permitted in vegetation retention zones.

The Environmental Inspector will be notified in the event the Contractor needs to clear additional vegetation beyond the above limits as specified in the Contract documents, and these limits will be reviewed in the field for acceptability.




Fell trees and shrubs to be removed into the highway ROW (and away from Hall’s Creek and retained vegetation areas) to avoid disturbance to vegetation outside the ROW as well as aquatic areas.

Dispose of cut material through chipping or other appropriate means.

Avoid all unnecessary traffic, dumping and storage of materials over tree root zones adjacent to the ROW.

Implement environmental inspection during construction to ensure that all mitigation measures are implemented properly, maintained and repaired and remedial measures are initiated in a timely manner where warranted.

Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat Localized impacts due to removal of

common vegetation/habitat.

Potential impacts to any bird nesting associated with the works and the removal of common vegetation/habitat.

MTO

MNRF

MOECC

UTRCA

The Contractor will apply timing constraints to avoid vegetation clearing (including grubbing) during the breeding bird season (approximately April 1st to August 31st).

The risk of nesting is considered low based on the absence of nests in two survey years. For this reason mitigation to prevent birds from nesting beneath the 401 structure is not required.

The Contractor shall not undertake any work that could result in the destruction of active nests (nests with eggs or young birds, which may be present on bridges or culverts or in adjacent vegetation) or the wounding or killing of any migratory bird species protected under the MBCA. Nor shall the Contractor harm or harass any SAR, such as Barn Swallow protected under the ESA (2007), or destroy their nesting habitat (which may include bridges and culverts) without prior authorization.




Environmental inspection will be conducted throughout construction to ensure that protection measures are implemented, maintained and repaired and remedial measures are initiated where warranted, and if exclusion measures are in use, no birds become entangled or manage to get inside.

Any wildlife incidentally encountered during construction will not be knowingly harmed.

In the event that a SAR, or potential SAR, is found within the construction area, the Contractor will immediately cease all work that could potentially harm the animal and will contact the Contract Administrator, as these animals are protected under the Ontario Endangered Species Act (2007). The Contract Administrator or Environmental Inspector will then contact the MNRF SAR Biologist for advice.

Fish and Fish Habitat Potential impact on fish habitat due to

construction works.

MTO

MNRF

DFO

The construction access, work areas and associated requirements for removal of any vegetation will be minimized to the extent required for the construction activities, and these areas then delineated in the field using properly installed protective silt fencing.

The Contractor will implement the erosion and sediment control measures identified in the contract, specifically in OPSS 805. All disturbed surfaces and ditch works ultimately draining to Hall’s Creek will be specifically managed to prevent erosion and sediment migration during construction, and to ensure proper re-stabilization following construction.




The construction zones for the replacement of the ramp culverts will be properly contained (even if the drainage features are not flowing during the works) so as to prevent potential erosion and downstream sediment transport in the event of a storm. Disturbed areas of the ditch/drainage system will be re-stabilized and re-vegetated to prevent erosion and downstream sediment transport following construction.

All clearing of vegetation required for construction staging and works will be conducted in accordance with the mitigation measures outlined in the Contract documents. Vegetation clearing should be kept to a minimum and currently altered areas used for staging where possible. Construction staging plans are further being refined, but the works will primarily be conducted from the existing highway surface and paved shoulder areas.

No equipment shall ford or otherwise enter the watercourse except as specified in the contract or unless authorized by the appropriate environmental agency/permit.

The Contract Administrator’s team will include an Environmental Inspector experienced in working around watercourses who will be responsible for ensuring the erosion and sediment control measures are functioning effectively and being maintained, and all of the other general mitigation measures are being implemented as intended. The Environmental Inspector will ensure all environmental mitigation and design measures are properly installed/constructed and maintained, and appropriate contingency and response plans are in place and implemented if required.




Groundwater, Drainage & Surface Water Potential for increased pollutants to

enter groundwater recharge areas during construction.

Runoff from highway could impact the water quality if not handled properly.

MTO

MOECC

MNRF

Since the Study Area is partially reliant on groundwater use, it is recommended to provide advance notice to well owners residing along Harris Street / Plank Line in the Study Area regarding the upcoming construction activities.

A contingency response plan should be prepared by the Contractor in case water quality impairment reportedly occurs in wells during or following construction.

Socio-Economic Environment (See Section 4.2 for further details)

Adjacent Land Uses Potential impacts to properties.

Residents Property is required to complete the proposed interchange improvements. This property has been acquired from MTO.

The property located on the northeast quadrant (Elm Hurst Inn & Spa) is being documented as an Environmentally Sensitive Area. This property is not to be used by the Contractor for stockpiling or storing materials/equipment.

Landscape Potential impact on trees or shrubs.

MUN

MTO

Ensure that Contractor takes every precaution to prevent damage to trees or shrubs.

A landscape plan has been developed for the central islands. Salt-tolerant, low-maintenance plantings are recommended and included in the landscape plan.

Construction Noise Potential for noise resulting from

construction activities.

MTO

MOECC

MUN

Residents

A noise by-law exemption was requested to the Town of Ingersoll and to the Township of Southwest Oxford on October 27, 2015 for any night work required.

The Contractor will be required to keep idling of construction equipment to a minimum and to maintain equipment in good working order to reduce noise from construction activities.




If complaints regarding construction noise arise during construction, they will be investigated according to the provisions of the existing MTO Environmental Noise Guide (October 2006). The Guide states that any complaints from the public will require verification by MTO that the general noise control measures agreed to are in effect. If not, MTO will warn the contractor of any problems, and enforce its contract.

Utilities Impact to utility locations.

MTO

UTL

Relocation of affected utilities will occur through consultation with the affected utility providers.

Management of Excess Materials / Waste Surplus materials will be generated

during construction and require proper management / disposal.

Property contamination may be encountered during construction and require proper management / disposal.

MTO

MOECC

Excess Materials Management will be completed in accordance with applicable legislation and OPSS 180.

Excess materials will be placed and managed in berms, termed Excess Materials Management Areas (EMMAs), and within surplus MTO property within the project limits.

Dust control shall be completed using water, not chemical suppressants, and in accordance with the Ministry’s general conditions.

Direct responsibility for containment and clean-up of spills and abandoned materials on MTO highway facilities rests with the owner of the material and person in control of the material at the time of the spill or abandonment. Where spills or abandoned materials occur on MTO highway facilities, MTO may assist where persons legally responsible cannot be located or not able to respond.

Cultural Environment (See Section 4.3 for further details)

Archaeological Resources A Stage 3 Archaeological Assessment

recommended that no further investigations are required.

MTO

MTCS

Any person discovering human remains must immediately notify the police or coroner and the Registrar of Cemeteries, Ministry of Government Services.

Should previously undocumented archaeological resources be discovered, they may be a new archaeological site and therefore subject to Section 48 (1)




of the Ontario Heritage Act. The proponent or person discovering the archaeological resources must cease alteration of the site immediately and engage a licensed consultant archaeologist to carry out archaeological fieldwork.

Archaeological sites recommended for further archaeological work or protection remain subject to Section 48 (1) of the Ontario Heritage Act and may not be altered or have artifacts removed from them, except by a person holding an archaeological license.

Transportation (See Section 4.4 for further details)

Construction Staging Highway 19 and access to the carpool

parking lot will be closed during construction. A detour route will be marked for motorists.

MTO

MUN

ES

Residents / Businesses

Advance road signage notifying motorists of the construction and detour route will be provided prior to the start of construction and closures.

Access will be maintained for the property on the northeast quadrant (Elm Hurst Inn & Spa) during construction.

Staging plans have been developed to allow partial maneuvers to and from Highway 401.

Highway 19 and access to the carpool parking lot will be closed during construction. A detour route will be marked for motorists.

Illumination No light pollution will occur.

MTO

MUN

Residents

The roundabouts, Highway 19 between the ramp terminals and the commuter parking lot will be illuminated as per MTO`s current standards.

Emergency Service Response Potential impacts to emergency

services response times.

MTO

ES

The municipalities, local emergency medical services and the Ontario Provincial Police will be notified of construction staging, start of construction, etc. to minimize delay in emergency response times during construction.



5.0 MONITORING

On-site construction administration / inspection staff will ensure that the environmental protection

measures outlined in this report are carried out. If the impacts of construction are different than

anticipated, or if the method of construction is such that there are greater than anticipated

impacts, the Contractor’s methods of operation will be changed or modified to reduce those

impacts. During construction, the on-site Contract Administrator ensures that implementation of

mitigating measures and key design features are consistent with the contract and external

commitments. In addition, the effectiveness of the environmental mitigating measures is

assessed to ensure that:

► individual mitigating measures are providing the expected control and/or protection;

► composite control and/or protection provided by the mitigating measures is adequate;

► mitigation measures are maintained and any unnecessary repairs are completed quickly; and

► additional mitigating measures are provided, as required, for any unanticipated environmental problems that may develop during construction

On-site construction administration staff will ensure that the environmental measures outlined in

the contract documents / specifications are carried out. Post-construction monitoring will be

carried out as required. In the event that problems develop, the MTO Environmental Section and

appropriate provincial ministries and/or agencies will be contacted to provide additional input and

recommendation.

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December 5, 2014 Mr. Ernie Hardeman MPP Oxford County Constituency Office 12 Perry Street 2nd Floor Woodstock, ON N4S 3C2 Re: Notice of Study Commencement – Replacement of the Highway 401 Underpass

Structure at Highway 19 and Interchange Improvements (G.W.P. 3079-09-00) Detailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment Study

Dear Mr. Hardeman: The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained MMM Group Limited to undertake the Detailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) Study for the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure at Highway 19 and associated interchange improvements in the Town of Ingersoll, Oxford County.

This project is following the approved environmental planning process for Group ‘B’ projects under the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Design and Construction Report (DCR) will be prepared to record the final design and filed on the public record. The enclosed notice will be published in local newspapers as follows: Ingersoll Times– Wednesday, December 17, 2014 Woodstock Oxford Review – Thursday, December 18, 2014

2

If you wish to obtain additional information about the project or provide input at any point during the study, please contact one of the individuals noted in the attached Notice of Study Commencement.

Yours truly,

Alla Dinerman P.Eng Consultant Project Manager MMM Group Limited cc: Kane Erickson, MTO, Project Manager Kirstie Houston, MTO, Environmental Planner Greg Moore, MMM Group Limited, Consultant Environmental Planner Attach. – Notice of Study Commencement

THE STUDY The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained MMM Group Limited to undertake the Detailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) Study for the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure at Highway 19 and associated interchange improvements in the Town of Ingersoll, Oxford County. The study location is identified in the key plan below. Interchange improvements include the installation of roundabouts at each of the ramp terminals. The Highway 401 crossing on Highway 19 (Plank Line) and the commuter carpool lot will be closed for approximately three months. Temporary overnight closures of Highway 401 will be required as well as lane closures. THE PROCESS This project is following the approved environmental planning process for Group ‘B’ projects under the Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Transportation Environmental Study Report (TESR) for the Highway 401 bridge replacement and interchange improvements at Highway 19 was completed and received environmental assessment approval in November 2012. Upon completion of the Detailed Design and Class EA Study, a Design and Construction Report (DCR) will be made available for a 30-day public review period. COMMENTS The Project Team will provide regular updates on the study website at www.highway401-Hwy19andNorwichAve.ca. We are interested in receiving your input at any point during the study. If you wish to submit comments or be added to our study mailing list, please visit the project website or contact one of the Project Team members below.

Ms. Alla Dinerman P. Eng Consultant Project Manager MMM Group Limited 100 Commerce Valley Dr. West Thornhill, ON L3T 0A1 Phone: (905) 822-7212 Toll free: 1-877-562-7947 Fax: (905) 822-0055 E-mail: [email protected]





Mr. Greg Moore, B.E.S. Consultant Environmental Planner MMM Group Limited 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300 Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8

Phone: (905) 823-8500 ext.1323 Toll free: 1-877-562-7947 Fax: (905) 823-8503



NOTICE OF STUDY COMMENCEMENT DETAILED DESIGN AND CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT STUDY

REPLACEMENT OF THE HIGHWAY 401 UNDERPASS STRUCTURE AT HIGHWAY 19 AND INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS (G.W.P. 3079-09-00)

http://www.highway401-hwy19andnorwichave.ca/



AGENCY COMMENT FORM

Type of Project: Detailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment Study Environmental Assessment Type: Group “B”, Class EA for Provincial Transportation Facilities Location: Town of Ingersoll, Oxford County Agency Name & division/branch:

COMMENTS: 1. Does your organization wish to participate in this project? YES NO

2.

If yes to the above, please provide the contact name, telephone #, address and e-mail for future correspondence.

3. Please identify any concerns/comments your organization may have at this time.

For further information regarding this project, please visit the project website at: www.Highway401-Hwy19andNorwichAve.ca or contact the Consultant Project Manager, Ms. Alla Dinerman P.Eng., MMM Group Limited at (905) 822-7212 or [email protected]. PLEASE FAX THIS FORM BACK BY JANUARY 19, 2015. ATTN: Mr. Greg Moore, B.E.S. Environmental Planner MMM Group Limited 2655 North Sheridan Way Mississauga, Ontario L5K 2P8 FAX: (905) 823-8503 EMAIL: [email protected]

December 12, 2014 «Title» «First_Name» «Last_Name» «Company» «Branch» «Address_1» «Address_2» «City», «Province» «Postal_Code» Re: Notice of Study Commencement – Replacement of the Highway 401 Underpass


Dear «Title» «Last_Name»,

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained MMM Group Limited to undertake the Detailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) Study for the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure at Highway 19 and associated interchange improvements in the Town of Ingersoll, Oxford County.

This project is following the approved environmental planning process for Group ‘B’ projects under the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Design and Construction Report (DCR) will be prepared to record the final design and filed on the public record. The purpose of this letter is to notify you of the project start-up and to seek your input on the environmental (natural, socio-economic and cultural) features in the study area. Please provide any comments you may have about this study by January 19, 2015. An agency comment form is enclosed to facilitate your response. Comments may also be submitted through the project website at www.highway401-hwy19andnorwichave.ca. If you wish to obtain additional information about the project or provide input at any point during the study, please contact one of the individuals noted in the attached Notice of Study Commencement.

Yours truly,

Alla Dinerman P.Eng Consultant Project Manager MMM Group Limited cc: Kane Erickson, MTO, Project Manager Kirstie Houston, MTO, Environmental Planner Greg Moore, MMM Group Limited, Consultant Environmental Planner Attach. – Notice of Study Commencement; Comment Form


KungK

Text Box

Sent to agencies on the project mailing list. A notice of study commencement and a comment form were enclosed.

Federal Agencies

Rob Dobos Manager Environment Canada Environmental Assessment Section, Environmental Protection Operations Division - Ontario Region 867 Lakeshore Road, P.O. Box 5050 Burlington, ON L7R 4A6

Provincial Agencies

Mr. Drew Crinklaw Rural Planner Ministry of Agriculutre, Food and Rural Affairs Southwestern Region 667 Exeter Road London, ON N6E 1L3

Charles O'Hara Manager Ministry of Infrastructure Ontario Growth Secretariat 777 Bay Street, 4th Floor Toronto, ON M5G 2E5

Ms. Amanda McCloskey District Planner Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Aylmer District 615 John St. North Aylmer, ON N5H 2S8

Mr. Mitch Wilson District Manager Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Aylmer District 615 John St. North Aylmer, ON N5H 2S8

Ms. Sherry Pineo Resources Operations Supervisor (Acting) Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Aylmer District 615 John St. North Aylmer, ON N5H 2S8

Ms. Agatha Garcia-Wright Director Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Environmetnal Approvals 2 St. Clair Avenue West, 12A Floor Toronto, ON M4V 1L5

Ms. Dorothy Moszynski Project Evaluator Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Environmetnal Approvals 2 St. Clair Avenue West, 12A Floor Toronto, ON M4V 1L5

Mr. Bob Aggerholm Environmental Planner/Regional EA Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change Southwestern Region 733 Exeter Road London, ON N6E 1L3

Conservation Authority

Mr. Ian Wilcox General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Upper Thames River Conservation Authority 1424 Clark Road London, ON N5V 5B9

Ms. Karen Winfield Land Use Regulations Office Upper Thames River Conservration Authority 1424 Clark Road London, ON N5V 5B9

School Boards

Executive Superintendent of Business and Services Thames Valley District School Board 1250 Dundas Street, P.O. Box 5888 London, ON N6A 5L1

London District Catholic School Board Catholic Education Centre 5200 Wellington Road South London, ON N5H 2C9

Conseil Scolaire Catholique Providence Head Office 7515 Forest Glade Drive Windsor, ON N8T 3P5

Emergency Services

Ms. Paula Brown Ontario Provincial Police Operational Policy and Strategic Planning Bureau 777 Memorial Avenue, 2nd Floor Orillia, ON L6V 6H3

Ontario Provincial Police Oxford County Detachment 90 Concession Street East Tillsonburg, ON N4G 4Z8

Town of Ingersoll Police Services 110 Mutual Street Ingersoll, ON N5V 5B9

Mr. John Holmes Fire Chief Town of Ingersoll Emergency Services 110 Mutual Street Ingersoll, ON N5C 2V5

Mr. Jeff VanRybroeck Fire Chief Township of South-West Oxford Emergency Services 312915 Dereham Line Mt. Elgin, ON N0J 1N0

Mr. Joe Pember Manager of Emergency Services Oxford County Public Health and Emergency Services 21 Reeve Street, P.O. Box 1614 Woodstock, ON N4S 7Y3

Utilities

Mr. Derek Pringle Hydro One 56 Embro Street, P.O. Box 130 Beachville, ON N0J 1A0

Mr. Joe Weryk Rogers Cable Communications 800 York Street, P.O. Box 5800 London, ON P6A 5B1

Mr. Chris Gill Bell Canada 100 Dundas Talbot Square, Floor 4Y London, ON N6A 5B6

Mr. Douglas Wituik Town of Ingersoll 80 Pemberton Street Ingersoll, ON N5C 2T0

Other Potentially Interested Stakeholders

Ms. Ann Campbell General Manager Ingersoll District Chamber of Commerce 132 Thames Street South Ingersoll, ON N5C 1E4

Ms. Bonnie Ward Ingersoll Recreational Department Ingersoll Recreational Trails Committee 130 Oxford Street, 2nd Floor Ingersoll, ON N5C 3V6

Mr. Walter Kropf President Oxford County Federation of Agriculture c/o 276 Whiting Street Ingersoll, ON N5C 3B8

Mr. Bob Orth District President Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs District 5, PO Box 1572 535 Mill Street Woodstock, ON N4S 0A7

Ms. Kelly Batt Chairperson Oxford County Trails Council 580 Brin Boulevard Woodstock, ON N4V 1E5

Mr. Rob Tortolo Co-President London Cycling Club 431 Boler Road, P.O. Box 20043 London, ON N6K 2K0

Mr. Michael Nuttal President London Cenntenial Wheelers 28 Briscoe Street East London, ON N6E 1W9

Ms. Maureen Heath Supervisor Southwestern Ontario Student Transportation Services 201-557 Southdale Road London, ON N6E 1A2

Ms. Lisa Gardner Director, Patient Services and Chief Nursing Officer Alexandra Hospital 29 Noxon Road Ingersoll, ON N5C 3V6





This project is following the approved environmental planning process for Group ‘B’ projects under the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Design and Construction Report (DCR) will be prepared to record the final design and filed on the public record. The Project Team would appreciate receiving feedback about municipal initiatives including transportation-related improvements, planning and special events in the vicinity of the study area. The purpose of this letter is to notify you of the project start-up and to seek your input on the environmental (natural, socio-economic and cultural) features in the study area. Please provide any comments you may have about this study by January 19, 2015. An agency comment form is enclosed to facilitate your response. Comments may also be submitted through the project website at www.highway401-hwy19andnorwichave.ca.


KungK

Text Box

Sent to municipal contacts on the project mailing list. A notice of study commencement and a comment form were enclosed.

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Yours truly,


Municipal

Mr. William Tigert CAO, Town of Ingersoll 130 Oxford Street, 2nd Floor Ingersoll, ON N5C 2V5

Mr. Ted Comiskey Mayor, Town of Ingersoll 130 Oxford Street, 2nd Floor Ingersoll, ON N5C 2V5

Ms. Sandra Lawson Engineering Director Town of Ingersoll Planning and Development 130 Oxford Street, 2nd Floor Ingersoll, ON N5C 2V5

Ms. Mary Ellen Grab CAO/Clerk Township of South-West Oxford 312915 Dereham Line Mt. Elgin, ON N0J 1N0

Mr. Bill Freeman Works Superintendent Township of South-West Oxford Work Department 312915 Dereham Line Mt. Elgin, ON N0J 1N0

Mr. Peter Crockett CAO, Oxford County 21 Reeve Street, P.O. Box 1614 Woodstock, ON N4S 7Y3

Mr. Robert Walton Director of Public Works Oxford County 21 Reeve Street, P.O. Box 1614 Woodstock, ON N4S 7Y3

Mr. Michael Campbell Operations Manager, Public Works Oxford County 21 Reeve Street, P.O. Box 1614 Woodstock, ON N4S 7Y3

Ms. Cathy Bingham Tourism Specialist, Tourism Oxford Oxford County 21 Reeve Street, P.O. Box 1614 Woodstock, ON N4S 7Y3

Mr. Kevin DeLeebeeck Manager of Engineering Services Town of Tillsonburg Engineering Department 10 Lisgar Avenue Tillsonburg, ON N4G 5A5

Mr. Steve Lund Director of Operations, Public Works Town of Tillsonburg 20 Spruce Street Tillsonburg, ON N4G 2Y5





This project is following the approved environmental planning process for Group ‘B’ projects under the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Design and Construction Report (DCR) will be prepared to record the final design and filed on the public record. During the Preliminary Design Study, a Stage 1 and 2 Archaeological Assessment was completed of the study area. A Stage 3 Archaeological Assessment will be completed during the Detailed Design Study by New Directions Archaeology. Once available, the Stage 3 Archaeological Assessment Report will be forwarded to MTCS. The purpose of this letter is to notify you of the project start-up and to seek your input on the environmental (natural, socio-economic and cultural) features in the study area. Please provide any comments you may have about this study by January 19, 2015. An agency comment form is enclosed to facilitate your response. Comments may also be submitted through the project website at www.highway401-hwy19andnorwichave.ca.


KungK

Text Box

Sent to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport contacts on the project mailing list. A notice of study commencement and a comment form were enclosed.

2


Yours truly,

Alla Dinerman P.Eng Consultant Project Manager MMM Group Limited cc: Joe Muller, MTCS

Kane Erickson, MTO, Project Manager Kirstie Houston, MTO, Environmental Planner Greg Moore, MMM Group Limited, Consultant Environmental Planner Attach. – Notice of Study Commencement; Comment Form

Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport

Mr. Joe Muller Heritage Planner Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport Cultural Services Unit, Programs and Services Branch 401 Bay Street, Suite 1700 Toronto, ON M7A 0A7

Mr. Chris Mahood Heritage Planner Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport Cultural Services Unit, Programs and Services Branch 401 Bay Street, Suite 1700 Toronto, ON M7A 0A7

KungK

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Note: Mr. Joe Muller was cc-ed on Mr. Chris Mahood's letter





This project is following the approved environmental planning process for Group ‘B’ projects under the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Design and Construction Report (DCR) will be prepared to record the final design and filed on the public record. The Project Team has sent study notification to the following First Nation and Métis communities:

Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Moravian of the Thames Métis Nation of Ontario Munsee Delaware First Nation Oneida Nation of the Thames First Nation

If your agency is aware of any other First Nation or Métis communities or organizations that may be interested in this study, we would appreciate receiving that information. The purpose of this letter is to notify you of the project start-up and to seek your input on the environmental (natural, socio-economic and cultural) features in the study area. Please provide any comments you may have about this study by January 19, 2015. An agency comment form is enclosed to facilitate your response. Comments may also be submitted through the project website at www.highway401-hwy19andnorwichave.ca.


KungK

Text Box

Sent to the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs contacts on the project mailing list. A notice of study commencement and a comment form were enclosed.

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Yours truly,


Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs

Consultation Unit Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs Aboriginal Relations and Ministry Partnership Division 160 Bloor Street East, 9th Floor Toronto, ON M7A 2E6

Ms. Ashley Johnson Technical Contact Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs Aboriginal Relations and Ministry Partnership Division 160 Bloor Street East, 9th Floor Toronto, ON M7A 2E6

THE STUDY The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained MMM Group Limited to undertake the Detailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) Study for the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure at Highway 19 and associated interchange improvements in the Town of Ingersoll, Oxford County. The study location is identified in the key plan below. Interchange improvements include the installation of roundabouts at each of the ramp terminals. The Highway 401 crossing on Highway 19 (Plank Line) and the commuter carpool lot will be closed for approximately three months. Temporary overnight closures of Highway 401 will be required as well as lane closures. THE PROCESS This project is following the approved environmental planning process for Group ‘B’ projects under the Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Transportation Environmental Study Report (TESR) for the Highway 401 bridge replacement and interchange improvements at Highway 19 was completed and received environmental assessment approval in November 2012. Upon completion of the Detailed Design and Class EA Study, a Design and Construction Report (DCR) will be made available for a 30-day public review period. COMMENTS The Project Team will provide regular updates on the study website at www.highway401-Hwy19andNorwichAve.ca. We are interested in receiving your input at any point during the study. If you wish to submit comments or be added to our study mailing list, please visit the project website or contact one of the Project Team members below.

Ms. Alla Dinerman P. Eng Consultant Project Manager MMM Group Limited 100 Commerce Valley Dr. West Thornhill, ON L3T 0A1 Phone: (905) 822-7212 Toll free: 1-877-562-7947 Fax: (905) 822-0055 E-mail: [email protected]





Mr. Greg Moore, B.E.S. Consultant Environmental Planner MMM Group Limited 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300 Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8

Phone: (905) 823-8500 ext.1323 Toll free: 1-877-562-7947 Fax: (905) 823-8503



NOTICE OF STUDY COMMENCEMENT DETAILED DESIGN AND CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT STUDY




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A notice of study commencement was mailed to adjacent property owners on the project mailing list.

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The IngersollChoral Societyinvites you to“Sail AwayWith Us” on amusical worldcruise withits Januarydinner theatre.

New addition eyed for Festival TownJohn TapleyIngersoll Times

The Festival Town could begetting a new addition to its listof special events.

Mary-Anne Murphy, cul-tural coordinator with OxfordCreative Connections – a localnon-profit arts and culturegroup – has requested $3,000in seed money from the Townof Ingersoll to establish theHall’s Creek Arts Festival.

Set up in the area betweenthe Ingersoll Cheese and Agri-cultural Museum and theIngersoll Creative Arts Centre,the weekend festival wouldinclude artists displaying theirwork, activities for childrenand live music.

“I know I can get 65 artists,easily,” Murphy said. “And I’dlike to see 100.”

The plan is to also provideopportunities for patrons to trytheir hand at various art forms– a sort of test drive of arts andculture.

The test drives could includethings like playing the guitar,making a pot on a wheel, quilt-ing or wood and stone carving.

“You could actually go andtry that,” said Murphy, who hashad the idea for the festival forabout five years.

One of the anticipated spin-off effects of letting people trysomething new is that theymay choose to continue with it,

which could boost member-ships with local organizationslike the Ingersoll Creative ArtsCentre.

“I think there’s enough roomin that park that we can makethis a really big festival eventu-ally,” Murphy said.

If the town comes throughwith seed money, she said shewill use it in part as leverage formatching funds, grants andsponsorships.

“We could be looking at$40,000 by the time we’re donehere with your $3,000,” shesaid.

The first part of September isbeing looked at for the timingof the festival.

“We don’t want to conflictwith anything that’s happen-ing,” said Murphy. “We justwant to add another festival toIngersoll.”

Festival Town Ontario cancertainly take advantage ofanother festival, said MayorTed Comiskey.

“I think it’s exciting,” he said.Coun. Reagan Warnick

Franklin also spoke in favour ofthe festival.

“I think this is a fabulousidea and I’d like to see itbecome an annual event,” shesaid.

Council received Murphy’spresentation as informationand referred her request forseed funding to budgetdeliberations.

Ingersoll Choral Society ready to set sailT h e I n g e r s o l l C h o r a l

Society invites you to “SailA w a y W i t h U s ” o n amusical

w o r l d c r u i s e w i t h i t sJanuary dinner theatre.

Fashioned after a cruiseship experience, Sail AwayWith Us features the choirper for ming music fromaround the world.

Musical director HollyLangohr said the musiccomes from many differ-e n t c o u n t r i e s a n d

cultures.“You will experience the

m u s i c a l f l a v o u r s f r o mCuba, South Africa, Japan,Russia and Israel, as wellas many others. The musicwill have you dancing inyour seat as you journeywith us to parts unknown,”she said.

There are three perfor-mances : Friday, Jan. 30and Saturday, Jan. 31 at 7p.m. will be dinner theatrewith a full, sit down meal;

a matinee dessert buffettheatre has been added onSaturday, Jan. 30 at 1 p.m.E a c h p e r f o r m a n c e w i l la l s o f e a t u r e a s i l e n tauction.

Tickets are available atPatina’s in Ingersoll , orc a l l G l e n n a t519-485-1938.

Ingersoll Choral Societycelebrates its 25th anni-versary this season and aspart of the celebrations,past, retired members are

invited to join the GoodFriday concert on April 3.

Rehearsals begin Feb. 2.The choir meets Mondayevenings at the CreativeArts Centre in Ingersoll.New members are alwayswelcome. If you are inter-e s t e d i n g i v i n g i t a t r y ,contact Holly Langohr :226-984-1957; holly.lang-ohr@gmail .com or visitwww.ingersollchoralsoci-e t y . c o m f o r m o r einformation.

NOTICE OF STUDY COMMENCEMENTDetailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment Study

Replacement of the Highway 401 Underpass Structure at Highway 19 andInterchange Improvements G.W.P. 3079-09-00

THE STUDY

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained MMM Group Limited to undertake the Detailed Designand Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) Study for the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure atHighway 19 and associated interchange improvements in the Town of Ingersoll, Oxford County. The study location isidentified in the key plan.

Interchange improvements include theinstallation of roundabouts at each of the rampterminals. The Highway 401 crossing on Highway19 (Plank Line) and the commuter carpool lotwill be closed for approximately three months.Temporary overnight closures of Highway 401will be required as well as lane closures.

THE PROCESS

This project is following the approvedenvironmental planning process for Group‘B’ projects under the Class EnvironmentalAssessment (Class EA) for ProvincialTransportation Facilities (2000).

A Transportation Environmental Study Report(TESR) for the Highway 401 bridge replacementand interchange improvements at Highway 19was completed and received environmentalassessment approval in November 2012.

Upon completion of the Detailed Design andClass EA Study, a Design and ConstructionReport (DCR) will be made available for a 30-daypublic review period.

COMMENTS

The Project Team will provide regular updates on the study website at www.highway401-Hwy19andNorwichAve.ca.

We are interested in receiving your input at any point during the study. If you wish to submit comments or be added to ourstudy mailing list, please visit the project website or contact one of the Project Team members below.

Ms. Alla Dinerman P.Eng. Mr. Kane Erickson, P.Eng. Mr. Greg Moore, B.E.S.Consultant Project Manager Project Engineer Consultant Environmental PlannerMMM Group Limited Ministry of Transportation – West Region MMM Group Limited100 Commerce Valley Drive West 659 Exeter Road, 3rd Floor 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300Thornhill, ON L3T 0A1 London, ON N6E 1L3 Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8tel: 905-822-7212 tel: 519-873-4565 tel: 905-823-8500 ext.1323toll-free: 1-877-562-7947 toll-free: 1-800-265-6072 ext. 519-873-4565 toll-free: 1-877-562-7947fax: 905-822-0055 fax: 519-873-4600 fax: 905-823-8503e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]

Comments and information are being collected to assist the MTO in meeting the requirements of the Ontario EnvironmentalAssessment Act. Information will be collected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Actand the Access to Information Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the publicrecord.

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NOTICE OF STUDY COMMENCEMENTDetailed Design and Class Environmental Assessment Study

Replacement of the Highway 401 Underpass Structure at Highway 19 andInterchange Improvements G.W.P. 3079-09-00

THE STUDY

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained MMM Group Limited to undertake the Detailed Designand Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) Study for the replacement of the Highway 401 underpass structure atHighway 19 and associated interchange improvements in the Town of Ingersoll, Oxford County. The study location isidentified in the key plan.

Interchange improvements include theinstallation of roundabouts at each of the rampterminals. The Highway 401 crossing on Highway19 (Plank Line) and the commuter carpool lotwill be closed for approximately three months.Temporary overnight closures of Highway 401will be required as well as lane closures.

THE PROCESS

This project is following the approvedenvironmental planning process for Group‘B’ projects under the Class EnvironmentalAssessment (Class EA) for ProvincialTransportation Facilities (2000).

A Transportation Environmental Study Report(TESR) for the Highway 401 bridge replacementand interchange improvements at Highway 19was completed and received environmentalassessment approval in November 2012.

Upon completion of the Detailed Design andClass EA Study, a Design and ConstructionReport (DCR) will be made available for a 30-daypublic review period.

COMMENTS

The Project Team will provide regular updates on the study website at www.highway401-Hwy19andNorwichAve.ca.

We are interested in receiving your input at any point during the study. If you wish to submit comments or be added to ourstudy mailing list, please visit the project website or contact one of the Project Team members below.

Ms. Alla Dinerman P.Eng. Mr. Kane Erickson, P.Eng. Mr. Greg Moore, B.E.S.Consultant Project Manager Project Engineer Consultant Environmental PlannerMMM Group Limited Ministry of Transportation – West Region MMM Group Limited100 Commerce Valley Drive West 659 Exeter Road, 3rd Floor 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300Thornhill, ON L3T 0A1 London, ON N6E 1L3 Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8tel: 905-822-7212 tel: 519-873-4565 tel: 905-823-8500 ext.1323toll-free: 1-877-562-7947 toll-free: 1-800-265-6072 ext. 519-873-4565 toll-free: 1-877-562-7947fax: 905-822-0055 fax: 519-873-4600 fax: 905-823-8503e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]

Comments and information are being collected to assist the MTO in meeting the requirements of the Ontario EnvironmentalAssessment Act. Information will be collected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Actand the Access to Information Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the publicrecord.

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localnewsn looking ahead

continued from a1

“It’s a heritage building that is difficultat best to provide security,” he said.

a courthouse committee, led by thejudiciary, is currently looking into futureoptions such as a walk-through metaldetector or police-held wands.

currently, he said, security measureshave been bumped up to include armedofficer patrolling the hallways.

With a new council and police servicesboard, renton said he will be remind-ing both of “the exciting prospect of thebuilding addition.”

Originally built for 40 officers, theaddition to the dundas street headquar-ters will allow 66 sworn members and 40additional employees to work under thesame roof.

“having everyone under the same roofis far more efficient,” he said.

more Tasers for the force, whether itbe just for assistant supervisors or every

officer, is also an issue that needs to beaddressed.

Vulnerable populations such as theelderly, is a demographic renton feelsneed extra attention in the wake of door-to-door scams and other fraudulentactivity.

“It seems like that is an area we canhelp them a little,” he said.

The force will also be looking to bemore efficient by looking at “differenttechnological changes” including provid-ing disclosure electronically.

renton said he is also interested inbringing back the citizen’s Police acad-emy.

“I heard great things about it,” he said.Then, of course, there is the looming

budget.“We will put lots of time and energy

into it and try to be as fiscally responsibleas possible” he said.

[email protected]

Courthouse securityalso a concern

cRaIG GloVeR/the London FRee PRess

Shrek, played by actor Steve Ross, and young Fiona, played by Alexandra Grant,pose for a photo with Santa Claus atop a sleigh in Victoria Park in LondonWednesday. Due to high demand, Shrek The Musical, starring Ross and Grant, hasbeen extended through Jan. 3 at the Grand Theatre.

Shell eyeing Corunna growthSARNIA— Shell Canada is considering expanding production capacity at its Corunna

refinery by about 15,000 barrels of oil a day.If the expansion is approved by the company, it would take the refinery’s capacity up to

95,000 barrels a day, said Shell spokesperson Randy Provencal.The project is just at the proposal stage, he added.The Sarnia Advantaged Feedstock Expansion project is proposed for Shell’s current refin-

ery site on the St. Clair Parkway, between Sarnia and Corunna. Shell isn’t saying howmuchit would expect to spend on the expansion and hasn’t set a timetable.

The sarnia observer

Stratford baskets deliver food, hopeSTRATFORD—With just a few days to go before volunteers deliver 620 Christmas ham-

pers to local families, the Kiwanis-CJCS Christmas Basket Fund has raised less than half ofthe nearly $35,000 required for the drive.

But while cash contributions have fallen short, organizers aren’t pushing the panic but-ton just yet.All the fmoney goes to buy food to serve hundreds of families in Stratford and area a

traditional Christmas meal.Each basket has a turkey, canned food, bread, potatoes, apples, oranges, onions and

peanut butter. Cartons of eggs are donated by local egg producers. The food drive began 35years ago and helped 150 families back then.

stratford Beacon Herald

Farmers vent to Tory MPPsCHATHAM—The cost of drastically reducing the use of neonicotinoids as a seed treat-

ment will be huge, warn some local agriculturalists.A group of Conservative MPPs, including agricultural critic Toby Barrett, Rick Nicholls,

Monte McNaughton, and Bob Baily, got an earful from farmers at a meetingWednesday.Neonicotinoids are blamed for a spike in honeybee deaths.The Liberal government wants to reduce the use of the pesticide in Ontario’s corn and

soybean acres by 80% by 2017.But some farmers say such a quick, dramatic reduction could have a $600-million

impact because of increased tillage, among other problems.hatham Daily news

Bell City brews four-malt aleBRANTFORD— Bell City Brewing wants to go bigger with a store and tasting room.The company that manufactures two brews on contract with St. Thomas-based Railway

City Brewery has acquired a 5,000-square-foot building.Co-owner Dennis Marijan called the venture “Brantford’s first modern brewery.”The tasting room would allow patrons to sample the beers sold in the store.Marijan and partner Matthew Sakthivel brew Eureka CreamAle, named after Alexander

Graham Bell, a “pre-prohibition” styled cream ale with four malts. It will be on the shelves oflocal LCBO stores by June. The new building will be able to house four brewing tanks.

Brantford expositor

Have you seen Glenelg wise men?OWEN SOUND— St. John’s Catholic Church in Glenelg is hoping for a Christmas miracle.The church’s nativity scene is without two members after they were accidentally donated

to a Markdale second-hand store and have since been bought by someone.Church member TammyWillis is hopeful the missing Joseph and wise men dolls can be

found in time for the planned setup of the nativity at the church Sunday.“I was just devastated because it was not possible to get another set,” saidWillis. “I am

hoping the person who bought them will see our predicament and perhaps make it possiblefor us to get them back.”

owen sound sun Times

Documents

MMM Group LimitedIngersoll, ON Woodstock, ON 10 Lisgar Ave. N5C 2V5 N4S 7Y3 Tillsonburg, ON N4G 5A5 A copy of the DCR has also been posted on the study website at . Interested persons