IBR Urban Guidelines presented - open house March 27th
by Michelle Minnoch

Moiz Behar, lead consultant, gave council an update on the Innisfil Beach Road Urban Design Study on Wednesday night. In 2005, the town retained MBPD to undertake an Urban Design study of the Alcona area.

The report, which can be obtained on the town's website under Committee of the Whole agenda February 28th, emphasizes the public streetscape, including the private buildings and landscaping of the area. The policy sets out requirements for the design of subdivisions, buildings, parking, landscaping, signage and the gateway features.

"We intend to build a very nice streetscape," he said.

There is an emphasis on the lake, and increased awareness is brought forward to the Innisfil Beach Road's connection to the Lake, including improved access to the lake, and a nautical theme throughout Alcona.

Behar said the streetscape will be pedestrian oriented, and will include medians with trees, walkways and biking.

It has been estimated that planted medians can occur 600 - 700 metres between Jans Blvd. and the 25th Side Road.

The report outlines the focal points of the study, which include the 20th Side Road to Jans Blvd., Jans Blvd. to the 25th Side Road, and the 25th Side Road to Lake Simcoe.

Behar said at these focal points should be gateway features to give areas their special identity.

Recommendations include a concept for an Innisfil Town Square, which will be located in the area of the Lakeshore Library Branch.

The report states there are few streets with boulevard trees planted, and the overhead hydro wires will present a challenge. While tree plating is a major component of the streetscape, where there are overhead wires it is suggested low height, small ornamental trees be planted.

The report suggests public transit would provide 'significant benefits'. It suggests a public transit line along Innisfil Beach Road, which could eventually provide connections to the GO transit terminal at Hwy. 400.

Behar said buildings should have a specific height requirement and certain edges had to be defined. The report suggests buildings on Innisfil Beach Road should have appropriate architectural detain and low maintenance materials - buildings should be mixed use, and residential units could be located above commercial uses. It is also suggested the building entrances should be visible and accessible to the road, and that commercial building entrances are pedestrian friendly.

There will be a public Open House regarding the Innisfil Beach Road Urban Design Guidelines on Tuesday, March 27th.