February 19, 2010

This notice is to inform you of the City of Toronto’s intention to proceed with implementation of bicycle lanes on Jarvis Street from Bloor Street East to Queen Street East.

Background
The City of Toronto has completed the Jarvis Street Streetscape Improvement Environmental Assessment Study under “Schedule C” of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) process. The study recommended the narrowing of Jarvis Street by removing the centre reversible lane and widening the boulevards to improve the pedestrian realm.

Toronto City Council, at its meeting of May 25, 26 and 27, 2009, approved the Jarvis Street EA Study with changes in the recommendation that would include bicycle lanes. The centre reversible lane would still be removed; however, the provision of bicycle lanes on Jarvis Street would not allow for widening of the boulevards nor narrowing of the road pavement width. City staff have reviewed the potential implementation of the bicycle lanes and concluded that City Council’s decision is a preapproved “Schedule A+” project under the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment.

To date, planning and consultation work has completed all the requirements for “Schedule A+”. The Jarvis Street Streetscape Improvements project documentation outlining the study process is available on the following website: toronto.ca/involved/projects/jarvis. Since the project is classified as a pre-approved project under “Schedule A+” of the Municipal Class Environment Assessment it does not require a 30-day review period for the project documentation and the project is no longer subject to Part II Order requests.

Need more information?
If you have any questions or comments regarding this process, please contact:

Penelope Palmer, P.Eng.                                                      
Transportation Services                                                        
City of Toronto                                                                       
100 Queen Street West, 22nd Floor, East Tower                 
jarvis@toronto.ca
Tel. 416-398-3095
TTY 416-397-0831
Fax 416-392-2974
http://www.toronto.ca/involved/projects/jarvis

For further information please read the following attachments -
Jarvis Lanes EA Update – Public Notice
Jarvis Lanes EA – Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Happening to Jarvis Street?

At the May meeting of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee, there was discussion regarding possible changes to the Jarvis streetscape. A study has been completed that recommends that Jarvis Street be narrowed from five lanes to four, by removing the centre reversible lane and widening the east sidewalk and remaining four lanes. This widening will enable improvements to the public realm. The initial cost of implementing this plan is $6.35 million dollars. At this time however, this funding is not allocated for this purpose in the City’s 10-year Capital Plan.

The debate on this issue focused on how to recognize Jarvis as a noted ‘cultural corridor’ with historical significance balanced with its practical function as a primary artery into the downtown core.

After hearing from the public during the meeting, the Committee proceeded to unanimously back the proposed plan for Jarvis Street. Their recommendation will go to City Council for debate on May 25/26th. If approved by City Council, the public will have 30 days to provide their input. More details about how to do this will be provided, pending the outcome of Council’s decision.