NEWS
Quick Index
PLEASE NOTE: The Mississauga News has reloaded their website and the links from TOPCA are presently invalid. As of July 3, it appears that the Mississauga News may make technical provision for archival redirects so that existing links to their website will still work. The TOPCA website will not be modified with the new links to articles from the Mississauga News unless it proves necessary to do so. This waiting period may result in a few more days of inconvenience for TOPCA users while the present links remain invalid. Meanwhile, use keywords from the cited article titles to search the Mississauga News online at: http://www.mississauganews.com/news (note that a Search Box is provided).PORT CREDIT DISTRICT
- Port Credit District Policies Review
- A Vision for Port Credit: Pictorial Presentation and Discussion
- Developing Our 100 Acres: An Urban Design Panel on Port Credit
- Port Credit Local Advisory Panel
- SUMMER WALKABOUT: Click here for a 75-slide photo album of points of interest in Port Credit this summer, which partly illustrates the items below. Last updated July 30, 2010.
DEVELOPMENTS
- 'No-Frills' Site
- Port Credit Post Office Site
- 'Briarwood' Site
-
- Hurontario Main Street Study (Rapid Transit)
- Lakeshore /
Stavebank Intersection
-
- Mississauga Cycling Advisory Committee (MCAC)
-
Shifting Gears – Cycling Master Plan
Review
- Promoting a Walking and
Biking Culture in Port Credit and Mississauga South
- YouTube video re: Cycling in Port Credit on Waterfront Trail
- Contested Streets: Breaking the Gridlock (Movie)
- TOPCA Biking Projects
PARKS
- Waterfront Parks Strategy
- Brueckner Rhododendron_Gardens
- Snow Clearing of Paths in the Waterfront
Parks
- Outdoo
- Saddington Stargazers
Group
-
- Port Credit Polar Bear
Clu
- Ben Machree Park Playground Replacement
- Lions Park
PUBLIC SPACES
MAINSTREET / BUSINESS DISTRICT
- Arts and Culture Master Plan Review
- Graffiti in Port Credit
- Port Credit Public Mural Project
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-
-
TOPCA Painted Bicycle Project
(Public Art)
CITY OF MISSISSAUGA
REGION OF PEEL
Port Credit District Policies Review
- All residents of Port Credit are invited to take part in
discussions to shape our Village's future!
Click here to read more.
Port Credit Local Advisory Panel
- The City's Planning Dept. has created the Port Credit Local Advisory Panel, which includes reps from all the local stakeholder groups (including TOPCA). Click here for a list of the members of the Panel. The Advisory Panel will provide input into the planning policies that are being prepared for Port Credit in 2009 with reference to the Directions Report approved by Council in Nov. 2008. Click here for background on the Port Credit District Policies Review and the Directions Report.
- Planning staff
developed
Terms of Reference for the establishment of the Local Advisory
Panel and have written a
Corporate Report that was approved by Council in Feb. 2009.
NOTE: There will be additional opportunities for public input on proposed Port Credit planning policies in addition to the Advisory Panel. - Click here to view the Advertisement. Over thirty (30) applications were received by the March 27, 2009 deadline. Click here for the Application Form.
- Click here for the City's featured article on the Local Advisory Panel concept, including access to the Minutes of each meeting.
- If you have any questions please feel free to contact Paul Stewart, Policy Planner for Port Credit at paul.stewart@mississauga.ca or call at 905-615-3200 ext. 5813.
A Vision for Port Credit: Pictorial Presentation and Discussion
- TOPCA sponsored a community meeting on June 4, 2008 to present A Vision for Port Credit, which has emerged from all our collective ideas. The City received these compiled ideas in May 2008 as a White Paper entitled:
Port Credit: An Urban Village for
the 21st Century;
A Model Community for the World
As submitted by VIVA Port Credit (TOPCA is a member group)
Click here to view the White Paper
- Click here to read the follow-up Mississauga News article entitled 'Residents applaud new Port Credit vision'.
- Click here to read the Mississauga News op-ed column entitled 'Dream of a new Port Credit' (July 8, 2008)
- On Sept. 5, 2008, TOPCA and other members of VIVA Port Credit
presented a PowerPoint presentation to the City which incorporated
the public input from the June 4, 2008 meeting.
Click
here to see the presentation.
Developing Our 100 Acres: An Urban Design Panel on Port Credit
- TOPCA sponsored a public meeting on Nov. 26, 2008: Developing Our 100 Acres: An Urban Design Panel on Port Credit, which featured a variety of urban design practitioners. Click here for Biographies. Ward 1 Councillor Carmen Corbasson and Mayor hazel McCallion attended.
- This was a
discussion of the urban design challenges as they pertain to the
significant lands potentially available for development or
re-development in Port Credit.
- Click here for Aerial View of potential development sites. Note that public parks slated for redevelopment have been additionally outlined in green, further to questions asked at the meeting.
- Click here for Questions asked of the Panel in both written form, and at the public microphone. Feel free to e-mail additional questions to TOPCA@topca.net for the follow-up meeting in Spring 2009!
- A preliminary inventory of 127 images was compiled for this event. Click here for pictorial resources. PLEASE NOTE: These images are for discussion purposes. In terms of the Texaco Brownfield and Harbour Marina sites, the Google Earth overlays (e.g. Tiananmen Square, Square One, Sydney Opera House) on slides #57-62 and #68-74 are designed to show the size and scale of the properties, and are not literal suggestions of what should be put there!
- FUN: Be part of the 'WHAT IN THE WORLD?' challenge -- use Google Earth to cut and paste (to scale) more interesting landmarks that could fit on the former Texaco Brownfield lands or Harbour Marina lands (e.g. the Pyramids?) -- an indication of the tremendous opportunity in Port Credit to 'Develop Our 100 Acres' in a fascinating way! The results may surprise you -- some world-famous landmarks are not as big as we think! Please e-mail any interesting overlays or suggestions to: TOPCA@topca.net -- you'll get credit on the website.
Hurontario Main Street Study (Rapid Transit)
- The Hurontario / Main Street Study is examining how rapid transit service could operate along the Hurontario Street (Highway 10) and Main Street corridor between the Port Credit area and the GO Station in downtown Brampton. This will not just be a Transportation plan, but a Land Use and Urban Design plan, with a multi-disciplinary approach. The feasibility study began in May 2008 and is anticipated to wrap up in June 2009.
- The Port Credit/Mineola workshop took place on Oct. 30, 2008 concerning the section of Hurontario St. south of the QEW to the lake.
- The 'Connect 10' Symposium with City staff, consultants, stakeholders and community leaders took place on Nov. 21, 2008 and focused on the emerging vision for implementing rapid transit along the Hurontario/Main Street Corridor. Click here to view the presentation.
- For the Hurontario Directions Report (Feb. 2009) and other documents and presentations produced to date, click here.
- There was a Public Information Centre on June 10, 2009 to review the study findings, rapid transit options and station locations for the proposed BRT or LRT line connecting Port Credit to Brampton. For further details go to the Hurontario/Main Street Study website.
- February 17, 2010: The Corporate Staff Report dated Feb. 4, 2010 was presented at General Committee of Council recommending approval for the next round of public consultation under Phase 2: Environmental Assessment. The Report recommends Light Rail Transit (LRT) for the Hurontario Corridor from Brampton to Port Credit. Note that implementation is presently unfunded. Mississauga News article (Feb. 18, 2010): Light Rail Transit on track.
- The next Public Information Session in Mississauga will be held on Wednesday, March 31, 2010 @ 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Mississauga Civic Centre.
- What do you think? If you e-mail your comments to the City's project leader regarding #10 rapid transit (Matthew.Williams@mississauga.ca ) please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net in order that the TOPCA Executive can better represent your views in TOPCA’s response to the City.
'No-Frills' Site Development
- As reviewed at the TOPCA AGM on November 15, 2007, there are plans for a new development on the site of the present No Frills grocery store. The official application was received by the City on April 23, 2008. TOPCA has been represented at meetings with the developer (Centre City Capital Limited) to learn what is proposed, and to provide input to the developer and to City planning staff.
- There was a Ward 1 Community Meeting concerning this development application on June 26, 2008. Click here for details about the application.
- The developer's complete visual presentation at the Community Meeting is available on the TOPCA website. Click here to see the presentation images.
- There was a formal Public Meeting held under the Ontario Planning Act on Feb. 2, 2009 in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Click here for more details.
- The Planning Dept's Information Report including the latest design details is now available online.
- Click to review VIVA PC's remarks to PDC on Feb. 2, 2009, now augmented with pictures.
- What do you think? If you e-mail your comments to the City planner regarding the "No Frills" site development (Ben.Phillips@mississauga.ca) please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net in order that the TOPCA Executive can better represent your views in TOPCA’s response to the City.
'Briarwood' Site Development
- LATEST INFORMATION
(Phase 2):
The Committee of Adjustment will consider requests for
variances (click to view the
Notice of Public Hearing) regarding Phase 2 of this site
development on Thurs. August 12 @ 1:30 p.m. in the
Council Chamber. Further info pending.
- LATEST INFORMATION
(Phase 3):
The City's Heritage Advisory Committee (HAC) met on
July 27, 2010 (click for Agenda --
item #6) to review the
City Corporate Report: July 16, 2010 (3p PDF) entitled: Request to Remove Heritage Listed Building:
Hill Gatehouse / Dudgeon Cottage, 305 Lakeshore
Road West (Ward 1)
which sits on the former "Briarwood" site in Port Credit.
There are plans for the Port Credit branch of the CIBC to relocate
to this site. Local citizen group reps, including TOPCA,
Cranberry Cove Port Credit Ratepayers' Assn and Port Credit Village
Residents' Assn have reacted quickly in an effort to save this
character building in situ and have now jointly endorsed a
Citizen Heritage Impact Study (20p PDF) which has been prepared
by TOPCA and
submitted to the members of HAC. A joint citizen deputation
was made before the Committee which recommended that the request to
demolish the building be denied, and that the building be designated.
NOTE: The HAC Motion to designate, and excerpts
from the citizen deputations and HAC commentary will be posted here
shortly.
NEWSFLASH: The HAC voted unanimously at their July 27 meeting to recommend that the Gatehouse/Cottage be designated as a heritage property and be retained on site, notwithstanding the City's Corporate Report which supported demolition. This will go to Council for final approval on August 4, 2010. Further details about the site plan appear below this photo of the building.
The developer, Pelican (Lakeshore) Commercial Inc., a subsidiary of Senator Developments, submitted a Site Plan (PDF) dated February 12, 2010 to the City with their application in April 2010, which showed the building removed. At a meeting on May 17, 2010 with the CIBC, Pelican, Senator, Mayor Hazel McCallion, Councillor Carmen Corbasson and City staff, the citizen groups were told they would receive the developer's contracted Heritage Impact Statement (HIS). This did not occur, but TOPCA received a scanned copy on July 26 via MSAi. The developer's HIS is dated July 12, 2010 (69p PDF).
With the assistance of local architect Michael Spaziani (MSAi), citizen groups have presented an Alternate Site Plan (PDF) in June 2010 for the proposed CIBC building, which would enable retention of the character building and enhance the development yield on the site. Click to view the cover letter sent June 9, 2010 to all parties by the residents' associations, concerning the alternate site plan, shown below. Click image to read detail by using the PDF '+' magnifying tool. FURTHER PICTURES PENDING.
BACKGROUND (Phase 1):
- The City has received a Site Plan application (Nov. 2008) from Pelican (Lakeshore) Commercial Inc. for a proposed Shoppers Drug Mart / Walk-in Clinic at 321 Lakeshore Rd. W. (former Briarwood GM car dealership location). The Shoppers Drug Mart at Credit Landing Plaza will be moving to this new location.
- An office/retail development is envisioned in Stage 2 (at 325 Lakeshore Rd. W.). Stage 3 will comprise additional commercial development on the rest of the 'Briarwood' site, east of Pine Street South. The total size of the site for Stages 1 and 2 is 1.95 acres.
- To view descriptions and photographs of the site, and elements of the developer's Master Site Plan (statistics, legend) as forwarded to TOPCA by the City's Planning Dept, click here.
- To view the original Master Site Plan in more detail (use 150% zoom), click here. Click here for the revised Master Site Plan dated May 21, 2009.
-
Stage 1 of
the proposed Site Plan required variances and went to the
Committee of Adjustment on March 12, 2009.
Click here for the Notice. The variances were granted conditionally.
Click here for TOPCA's position in a letter to the Committee.
Click here for the Committee's written decision. -
The developer has
supplied images (March 16, 2009) of the planned Shoppers Drug Mart
and Bank of Montreal.
Click here to view.
NOTE: New elevations 1. North and West and 2. South and East for the Shoppers Drug Mart, dated May 21, 2009, are now available for viewing. -
RE-ZONING: Notification has
been received from the City Planning Dept. regarding Official Plan
and Zoning amendments required for Stage 2 (the Bank of Montreal
portion).
Click
here for the Notice dated March 2, 2009. Essentially,
the residential property at 7 Maple Ave. S., owned by the developer,
needs to be rezoned to enable the required parking allocation for
the proposed use.
A statutory Public Meeting will be held -- date TBA. - There was a Community Meeting held April 30, 2009 to discuss residents' concerns regarding the re-zoning application, traffic routing and urban design considerations of the development applications. The City's position was that there should be no Lakeshore Road access to the site.
-
COMMITTEE OF ADJUSTMENT:
A new hearing was held on May 21, 2009
per re-application for requested variances on the amended site plan.
Click here for the Notice. The variances were granted.
Click here for the Planning Dept.'s recommendations to the Committee.
Click here for TOPCA's presentation/letter to the Committee (includes pictures).
Click here for the Committee's written Decision. - ELEVATIONS: New elevations 1. North and West and 2. South and East for the Shoppers Drug Mart, dated May 21, 2009, are available for viewing.
- LATEST SITE PLAN: A revised Master Site Plan dated May 21, 2009 has been forwarded by the developer. Note the loading area has been moved to the back of the SDM building (i.e. facing the parking lot) and a 'T-junction' for Lakeshore Road access is shown.
- UPDATE: A conditional building permit was issued in mid-September 2009 and excavation began for the first Stage. The landscaping plan and median separation issues for Lakeshore Road access were finalized, and the building is now complete. Applications for Phase 2 and 3 are pending.
- What do you think? If you e-mail your comments to the City planner regarding the "Briarwood" site development (David.Breveglieri@mississauga.ca) please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net in order that the TOPCA Executive can better represent your views in TOPCA’s response to the City.
Mississauga Cycling Advisory Committee (MCAC)
- If you are interested in any aspect of cycling in Mississauga, visit the MCAC website for news, events, maps and interactive features to enhance your understanding of the issues and the challenges involved for increasing safety and connectivity for cyclists in this City. Learn about the 200km of trails we have now, and get out on your bike!
Shifting Gears – Cycling Master Plan Review
- The City of
- What do you think? If you e-mail your comments to the City regarding the Cycling Master Plan (at cycling.plan@mississauga.ca ) please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net in order that the TOPCA Executive can better represent your views in TOPCA’s response to the City.
Waterfront Parks Strategy
- The City's Consultants, Brook McIlroy Inc./Pace Architects have completed the final draft plan for the Waterfront Parks Strategy, following previous public input sessions. Council approved the report on March 26, 2008.
- For information on the 3 priority parks in Port Credit you may click on Port Credit Memorial Park West, Marina Park, and J.C. Saddington Park.
- Click here to access the Draft Report on the City's website.
Ben Machree Park Playground Replacement
-
ISF: The scheduled playground replacement at Ben Machree Park is expected
to take place over 5 weeks during October/November 2009.
Click to view: 1)
Existing playground plan;
2)
Proposed playground plan, as revised October 26, 2009
in response to community concerns. The swings will not be
moved and a multi-use path will not be added, in order to preserve
the open area and allow for children's safety. Existing light standards
will be upgraded but remain where they are. NOTE:
This is an ISF (Infrastructure Stimulus Fund) project.
Natural Gas-fired Power Plants in Mississauga South
-
For information on the power plants issue, go to
www.MIRANET.ca.
TOPCA is a member of the
Mississauga Residents' Association Network (MIRANET), which passed a
Resolution,
January 2009 regarding the proposed gas-fired
power plant for the Clarkson Airshed Study area. On Sept. 30,
2009, the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) announced that the plant
will be located in Oakville, which is still within the taxed
Airshed. The Oakville residents' associations have a formed
the coalition Citizens for Clean Air and created a new website to continue the battle
www.C4CA.org.
Farmers Market
- There is strong community support for a Farmers Market in Port Credit, as shown at the well-attended public presentation by the Port Credit BIA on Oct. 27, 2008. Parking issues are being addressed in a number of ways. Click here for the meeting notice and proposed times of operation starting in June 2009.
- This proposal went to the Committee of Adjustment re usage of the Elmwood Avenue parking lot on Saturday mornings (6:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) on March 26, 2009. Click here for the Notice. The variance request was granted. To view the letter of support written to the C. of A. by the groups of VIVA Port Credit, including TOPCA, click here.
- The BIA will be ensuring that only direct growers participate. This will be a high-quality open-air destination which people can walk to, while also having the opportunity for mainstreet shopping along Lakeshore Road.
- LOCATION: 200 Lakeshore Road East beside the Port Credit LCBO
- HOURS OF OPERATION: Every Saturday morning @ 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. from June through mid-October.
- DOG POLICY: "We do not have a policy banning dogs from the market and will be welcoming dogs on leash. In fact ... we have water bowls readily accessible!" -- the BIA
- COMMUNITY BOOTH:
Community Groups/Charities can request a market space for fundraising,
membership drives, or event
marketing. First come first serve basis.
Fee: $35.00.
Terms: Groups must meet within Port Credit and/or host an event; Have a 'Not for Profit' or 'Charitable' status; Not be politically motivated. Please book through Ellen Timms, PCBIA General Manager. - GRAND OPENING: Was it ever! On June 13, 2009, according to John Cassan of the local Lions Club (which helped with parking control) approx. 2500 folks came through, many on foot or bike, and everything sold out early. Farmers will bring bigger trucks next week! In addition to this week's strawberries, breads, cheeses, honey, flowers and veggies, next week will have farm fresh eggs. Also sold out: shopping bags ($2) and T-shirts ($10) but there will be more! Click here for photos.
- For more information, or to VOLUNTEER to help, e-mail Beatrice at the PC BIA Office or call (905) 278-7742.
- E-mail Karen Cecy, Coordinator, for information on being a Vendor or providing live Entertainment.
- NOTE: The Farmers Market is now open until Oct. 10, 2010.
Port Credit Library
- Click here for the City's webpage about the Port Credit Branch Library.
- RENOVATION: On June 5, 2009 it was announced that the Port Credit Branch Library will receive $2.5 million for renovations (1/3 federal, 1/3 provincial, 1/3 municipal). Click for information on the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund (ISF) which made this project possible.
- NOTE: On Nov. 18, 2009, General Committee of Council approved an extra $600K for the PC Library renovation to optimize the design concepts, per the recommendation of Councillor Carmen Corbasson and City Staff.
- According to the City, this redevelopment project will build on the architectural character of the existing building and renovations will make it a more aesthetically appealing destination. Improvements and upgrades will include window replacement and additional windows with views to the surrounding park, enhanced public space with improved seating options, accessibility improvements to the entrance and washrooms, addition of quiet and group study rooms and reconfiguration of the staff workplace, carpet, new roof and water/sewer piping upgrades. These renovations will address the issues of age, mechanical lifecycle and functionality.
- This 7,600 square foot facility originally opened in 1962, with further renovations taking place in 1992. Work is expected to begin in February 2010 for a late 2010 completion. The Library will be closed for nine months during this period. Click to view project updates on the City's webpage.
- The Port Credit Village Project (PCVP) has been actively promoting community involvement in the re-design of the Library in anticipation of the future renovation. Click here for FLYER regarding their 'community soundings' held in May 2009.
- The PCVP 55-page Report: Port Credit Library Design Ideas: Sept. 2009 (click to view) was presented to City staff on September 15, 2009, and was also presented to the community at TOPCA's Public Meeting on November 4, 2009. Click here for PROGRAM including bios.
- Mississauga News article (Nov. 4, 2009): "Residents call for new library".
- The Booster article (Nov. 11, 2009): "Evolving the urban village: Community meeting at Clarke Hall".
- A Community Meeting was hosted by PCVP on November 24, 2009. The Architect hired by the City to design the renovation of the Library (starting June 2010) described the plans via an automated "walk-through" visual presentation. Mayor Hazel McCallion, Ward 1 Councillor Carmen Corbasson and Commissioner of Community Services Paul Mitcham all attended and spoke to the residents.
- Click here to view the proposed Lakeshore Road elevation (on the FLYER).
- Click here to view the proposed rear elevation from Memorial Park.
- Mississauga News article (Nov. 27, 2009): "Residents get a peek at new library". Excerpt: "Both Paul Mitcham, the City’s commissioner of community services, and [Councillor Carmen] Corbasson say further improvements will be phased-in down the road once more funds become available."
- The Booster cover piece (Dec. 2, 2009 - p1): "Library plan for next year". Includes images of "Today...Tomorrow..."
- The Booster article (Dec. 2, 2009 - spread): "Port Credit Library set to become a 'Pavilion in the Park'". Excerpt: "The building was described as sound and solid with no concern over 'sinking' or any structural issues."
- A Public Information Session was held on December 2, 2009 about the redevelopment of the Port Credit Library along with other local ISF projects in Ward 1. Click here for FLYER.
- Last day open: Feb. 20, 2010. Re-opens: 4th quarter 2010.
- NOW CLOSED: The $3.1M renovation of the Port Credit Library is now underway. NOTE: Lakeview Library and Lorne Park Library are also closed and will reopen in late 2010. Bookdrops at all three branches are presently shut down. Borrowed items can be returned to any other Mississauga Library System location. The nearest alternate library locations for Port Credit are the Cooksville Library and Clarkson Library. City Press Release (Feb. 2, 2010): South Mississauga Branch Libraries Close for ISF Renovations.
- SUNDAY HOURS: When the Library re-opens, it will commence with new Sunday hours and be open 6 days a week.
Port Credit Memorial Arena
- The City has designated the Arena (the city’s first and oldest surviving public arena) and surrounding lands as a Heritage Site. Click here for the Notice. Click here for the City's Announcement.
- ANNIVERSARY: The Port Credit Arena had its 50th Anniversary in 2009. Click here for the special website and information about the celebration event held on October 4, 2009. CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS.
- RENOVATION: A Public Meeting was held on April 1, 2009 (click for Notification) to present a proposal for renovating the Port Credit Memorial Arena in keeping with its heritage and landmark status. Mississauga News article (April 2, 2009): 'Hockey shrine gets a new shine'.
- The City's direct webpage will provide updates on the status of the project, including the complete visual presentation of the plans.
- CLOSURE: The renovation begins once the Arena is closed as of March 15, 2010. The Arena will reopen in March 2011.
Lions Hall, Outdoor Pool and Park
- With Port Credit Pool reaching an age where significant capital repair and rehabilitation are required, a $7 million redevelopment is scheduled to start in Spring 2010. There are plans to tear down Lions Hall and rebuild a smaller facility adjacent to the new 25M outdoor pool and a wade-in pool. The tennis courts will be moved to PCSS. Although the Outdoor Pool will be closed for the 2010 season, it will be ready for the 2011 season. Lions Park will also be redeveloped.
- Click for information on the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program which made this project possible. Click to view project updates on the City's webpage.
- FOCUS: Local residents and representatives of residents' groups (including TOPCA) attended a preliminary focus meeting about elements of the redevelopment and provided their input on Nov. 10, 2009, including the need for accessible public washrooms and a public meeting room. Click here to view the Nov. 30, 2009 Letter from the City in response.
- A Public Information Session was held on December 2, 2009 about the redevelopment of Lions Park, Hall and Pool, along with other local ISF projects in Ward 1. Click here for FLYER.
- PUBLIC ART: There was a Public Meeting with particular focus on the opportunities for public art and/or interpretative features in Lions Park on Dec. 16, 2009 at the Port Credit Library (Texaco Room). A Call for Artists will be forthcoming, based on public input received.
- LETTER RECEIVED: A Letter from Paul Mitcham, Commissioner of Community Services, was sent to local citizen groups on January 5, 2010 regarding the community's request for on-site public washrooms for Lions Park users. Click here to view the letter.
- CALL FOR ARTISTS: The City of Mississauga is seeking to commission an artist, or team of artists, who can bring an innovative approach to the design of a public artwork (total value $50,000) for the redevelopment of Lions Park in Port Credit. Submission deadline: Wed, May 5, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m. NOTE: The City has clarified that this short deadline is for CVs and Portfolios only, NOT for proposals. Prospective artists will be briefed about the significant public input which has gone into visioning the public art component for Lions Park. Full details can be viewed at: http://www.mississauga.ca/file/COM/FA_49_595_10.pdf.
Port Credit Lighthouse
- The Lighthouse underwent renovations during the summer of 2009, including re-surfacing, and a new roof. It re-opened in September 2009. Click for press release.
Arts and Culture Master Plan Review
- The City has conducted its first-ever Arts and Culture Master
Plan Review (ACMPR), in order to identify a sustainable, long-term vision and
five-year plan to guide strategic planning, action and
investment in arts, culture and heritage.
- TOPCA collaborated with other member groups of VIVA Port Credit to provide input to the Review. This was originally submitted in Jan. 2009 and has now been revised. Click here to view VIVA PC's submission on Public Culture in Port Credit (includes pictures; takes a minute to download).
- The City's complete Draft Master Plan is now posted (click to view).
- TOPCA collaborated with Heritage Mississauga and the Port Credit Village Project to write and submit a Joint Response to the City's Draft Master Plan on April 30, 2009. This response contains specific comments on the Master Plan's 44 recommendations including funding, administration and cultural initiatives in Port Credit and elsewhere in the City.
- On June 3, 2009 the Corporate Report on public response to the Arts and Culture Master Plan was presented to the General Committee of Council along with the revised Culture Master Plan, as it will now be called. Click here for other supporting documents, including public feedback and an Executive Summary.
- The Culture Master Plan was approved by Council on June 10, 2009. Click here for the City's press release.
Graffiti in Port Credit
- Residents of Port Credit have noticed an increase in graffiti and vandalism on public, private and commercial property. The City has provided Hotline Numbers for reporting of incidents: Parks & City-owned property/buildings: (905) 615-4060 (direct line to Corporate Security). For roads and signs: (905) 896-5655 - menu option #6 (direct line to Compliance and Licensing). Click for a Fact Sheet on Graffiti Prevention & Control produced by the Peel Regional Police.
Port Credit Public Mural Project
- The City has commissioned historical murals under the Lakeshore Road Bridge at the Credit River to discourage graffiti in the harbour area, especially at the base of the Lighthouse. The themes are the historical salmon fishery, and John Miller, the original Lighthouse keeper.
- A juried competition was held to select an artist to create the murals in August 2008. Click here to view the Call for Interest issued by the City for the Mural Competition.
- TOPCA, as a member group of VIVA Port Credit, was involved in the selection of the mural themes and the evaluation of the submissions. All the member groups of VIVA Port Credit supported the proposal submitted by Walter Ruston and Elva Hook, and the painting was done in September 2008.
- Click here to read the article in the Mississauga News: "Artists brighten up dark, graffiti covered bridge".
- Click here for pictures. Note that an original concept sketch is included.
Tree Stump Transformations
- Currently the city marks dead trees for removal and always attempts to replace the trees. In some cases, the trees are not replaced and tree stump transformations can create a positive impact on the community in these situations.
- The City has a pilot tree sculpture program. One of the trees involved is in front of the Port Credit Library at the entrance to the business district in full view of Lakeshore Road and near the famous mouth of the Credit River where salmon once flourished. Port Credit's ash tree stem will be transformed into a "salmon" spawning upstream.
- This information was provided by Joanne Foote, Parks Program Coordinator, Community Services – Parks. For more information phone Joanne at 905-615-3200 x 5346 or e-mail: joanne.foote@mississauga.
Port Credit: The Projects (Art Exhibition)
- During July 2009, an exhibition entitled: Port Credit: The Projects was sponsored by: Blackwood Gallery and Port Credit Village Project. Click here for Exhibition webpage (with details of all the 'Projects')
- This local art exhibition / installation aimed to re-imagine Port Credit by engaging with the issues and concerns of the Port Credit community through the lens of contemporary art. The 8 selected artists provided a perspective on the socio-economic engines of an area undergoing rapid transformations. They addressed issues familiar to Port Credit in the form of hypothetical projects, installations and performative interventions scattered throughout the former offices of an architectural firm (Adamson Associates) at 55 Port Street East (click for map) by the entrance to St. Lawrence Park. The contemporary artists offered unconventional entry points into a series of issues which are part of everyday life in Port Credit (e.g. swans).
- NOTE: From Curator Christof Migone: "I also want to take this opportunity to highlight the essay that was commissioned for this project. The essay by John Armstrong titled 'No Stars: A Short History of Industry and Small Business in Port Credit over Some of the Past Century' presents a personal narrative as well as considerable research in local history. It is an engrossing read, and not without its share of drama." (available on the Exhibition webpage)
- CALL FOR ARTISTS: The Blackwood Gallery will be presenting a second edition of The Projects: Port Credit in July 2010. There is a call for artists based in Port Credit (deadline is February 1, 2010). Click here to view the Notice.
Snow Clearing of Paths in the Waterfront Parks
- The winter of 2007/08 had more snowfall than the previous two years combined, and the issue of plowing public pathways has become all the more urgent for pedestrians who wish to maintain a healthy lifestyle year-round by enjoying the Waterfront Trail and walking to local shops.
- Starting with Winter 2008/09 there was snow plowing of public paths in the Waterfront Parks and over the Lakeshore Pedestrian Bridge at the Credit River, as TOPCA and so many residents and visitors have requested. Councillor Carmen Corbasson successfully promoted this new initiative in the face of serious budget cuts at the City.
Outdoor Skating Rink in Memorial Park
- Starting in 2009, an annual outdoor skating rink is provided at Port Credit Memorial Park (map) in the area west of the Arena parking lot, north of the playground, south of the skateboard park. This family-oriented rink is installed and ready for operation (depending on the weather) by January each year.
- The rectangular rink is approx. 64 feet wide X 80 feet long.
- Volunteers are needed to help with the maintenance of this natural rink. A heated hut, supplies (e.g. shovels) and access to water will be provided. Call the Parks and Recreation Dept. at (905) 615-3200 ext. 3780 to register for this exciting project that will benefit our whole community. We've asked for this rink -- let's help make it great!
- Volunteers Nick Marcinkiewicz, Steven Jenkinson and Ric Cooper did a great job to get the rink going in 2009, and reported: "It may be a bit bumpy but we're trying !!" During the January/February cold spell, it was a wonderful sight to see people out skating. Thanks guys!
- Click here for pictures of the rink in action (photos taken January 2009).
-
Click here to see the frame and hut in place, awaiting cold weather
- 2010 Update:
Click on
PC175 Calendar for details about the outdoor PC175 Pond Hockey Tournament at
Port Credit Memorial Park on Saturday, January 9, 2010.
Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens
- Members of the TOPCA Executive attended an Open House on Jan. 30, 2008, concerning the completion of the Waterfront Trail in Port Credit, through Rhododendron Gardens. Click here to read TOPCA’s letter in response.
- The upgrades to the Waterfront Trail and significant improvements to this City Garden were completed in the Fall of 2008, and residents are invited to comment during the subsequent assessment process.
- The City has renamed Rhododendron Gardens (which used to be called Cranberry Cove Park). Click here for the Corporate Staff Report with background information, dated Jan. 22, 2009.
- The City of Mississauga honoured the memory of former Ward 1 Councillor Harold Kennedy by dedicating a plaque in his name at the Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens on June 6, 2009. Mississauga News article: City memorializes one of its own.
-
NEW:
On Sept. 30, 2009, Council passed the
following recommendation:
Port Credit Polar Bear Club
- Why not plan to join the Port Credit Polar Bear Club and take a dip in the Lake on January 1, 2011? The Dip is sponsored by The Brogue Inn (Tommy Donnelly, proprietor; call (905) 278-8444).
- 2009 was the 6th year organized by co-founders Mike Bauer & Dave Emms, with over $6,000.00 raised for Interim Place through the generosity of the local community. Click here for some ch-ch-chilling pictures taken on January 1, 2009 at Lakefront Promenade Park (point of entry) by Port Credit photographer Sean Murphy.
- 2010 update: Mississauga News article (Jan. 2, 2010): "Frigid fun for a float".
Saddington Stargazers Group
- The Saddington Stargazers Group have been stargazing at Saddington Park and showing the skies to members of the public through their telescopes for the past few years. Saddington Park is one of the best stargazing spots in the entire GTA because of its low lighting and position on the lake. Click here to visit their website and receive the latest information on planned viewing nights.
Promoting a Walking and Biking Culture in Port Credit and Mississauga South
- TOPCA members participated in a Walk and Bike Workshop on Jan. 17, 2008, sponsored by VIVA Port Credit (TOPCA is a member group), and facilitated by Walk & Bike for Life, a non-profit group (also a member of VIVA PC) that is now located in Port Credit. Click here to view the Workshop report, entitled: Walking & Bicycling: Creating a Great South Mississauga Community (Community Led Action Plan, March 2008).
YouTube Video re: Cycling in Port Credit
- Feel like biking around Port Credit?
Check out the YouTube video called 'My Peaceful Bike
Ride' (NOT!) which features the Port Credit Harbour area,
Saddington Park and Rhododendron Gardens. Hilarious and true look
at the serious issue of our crowded multi-use Waterfront Trail.
Maybe you'll see yourself!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXE0bp5bN68.
Feel like talking about it? Go to the Mississauga Cycling website and read the new article 'The Transportation Food Chain' along with the response sent in by Port Credit resident 'Keith', the video's creator. Join the forum!
Contested Streets: Breaking the Gridlock (Movie)
- On Feb. 18, 2009 TOPCA held a community meeting to screen the 60-minute movie: 'Contested Streets: Breaking the Gridlock' about creating liveable streets in London, Copenhagen, Paris and NYC. Click here for Flyer. Thanks to urban strategist Gil Penalosa and the non-profit group Walk & Bike for Life (located in Port Credit) for sponsoring this event. Click here for the 5-minute trailer of this documentary on YouTube.
TOPCA Biking Projects
- We are very excited about our Association's public art project in honour of Port Credit's 175th Anniversary in 2010. With the assistance of City Parks Programming staff, TOPCA will be acquiring, painting and displaying several creatively painted bicycles around Port Credit, complete with flowering plants in their baskets. CLICK HERE FOR INFO AND PHOTOS.
- TOPCA is planning a Cycling Tour of Port Credit in June 2010 to highlight all the special places in our walkable/bikeable village, followed by a community picnic.
Port Credit Post Office Site
- MEETING WITH CANADA POST:
A meeting was called by Mayor
Hazel McCallion
on January 28, 2010 to enable
Moya Greene, Canada Post Corp
CEO and President, and Ray
Simard, CPC General Manager (Asset Management) to receive the
presentation by architect
Michael Spaziani (MSAi)
regarding the citizen-driven vision for redevelopment of the Port
Credit Post Office. Also present were Councillor
Carmen Corbasson,
Planning and Building Commissioner
Ed Sajecki and
Community Services Commissioner
Paul Mitcham, along
with
Jim Danahy,
co-president of TOPCA, and
Dorothy Tomiuk of the TOPCA Executive.
The Mayor stated clearly that this is about more than CPC just getting its money: why waste everyone's time going around and around with developers when we can work together and do the right thing by the community, to which CPC has a public obligation. The Councillor made clear that no variance from the spirit of the PC Directions Report will be considered. The Commissioners underscored that the City will stand firm in the face of inappropriate development applications, within the strong planning framework which has emerged from the Port Credit District Policies review process. Jim Danahy emphasized that best adaptive redevelopment of the Post Office site is of the highest importance to Port Credit citizens, who will work in solidarity with the City and seek the cooperation of all levels of government in order to get this right.NOTE (1): Federal MP for Mississauga South, Paul Szabo, has been unable to attend such meetings but has written his support for the City position on this matter.
NOTE (2): Congratulations to Michael Spaziani for receiving a Special Recognition Award from Heritage Mississauga, as presented on February 18, 2010. Michael's assistance to the Port Credit community regarding the Post Office visioning was cited among many other volunteer contributions Michael has made in support of heritage retention and sympathetic urban design.
- MEETING WITH CITY:
A meeting was held on January 12, 2010 with Mayor
Hazel McCallion, Ward
1 Councillor
Carmen Corbasson,
Mississauga South MPP
Charles Sousa and Commissioners
Paul
Mitcham (Community Services)
Ed
Sajecki (Planning & Building) and
Martin
Powell (Transportation & Works) along with senior City staff and the reps of
eight (8) local community
organizations in order to discuss future options for the Post Office
site. All parties want to ensure that appropriate
redevelopment of this acknowledged 'gem' occurs. Local architect
Michael Spaziani (MSAi)
presented his updated design (provided pro bono to the
community) to help articulate the citizen-driven vision.
The presentation is up on Flickr with inspiring new 3-D images (click
to view).
- MEETING WITH PCLAP:
The Post Office issue was on the Agenda for the September
15, 2009 meeting of the Port Credit Local Advisory Panel,
as requested by Councillor Corbasson.
Click here to view the Minutes of
the Sept. 15, 2009 PCLAP meeting where Michael Spaziani first
presented his design ideas.
BACKGROUND: - Canada Post has moved to a new facility in Lakeview.
- The Port Credit site at 31 Lakeshore Road East (map) at Stavebank Road South was recently For Sale again (as of May 2009), having been taken off the market in Jan. 2009 after a proposed purchase by Centre City Capital for adaptive reuse as a conference centre (complementary to The Waterside Inn) fell through.
- The City has decided
not to bid on
this property, but has indicated the intention to designate the Post
Office as a heritage site once it is transferred to the new
owner.
-
Click here to view VIVA Port Credit's letter to the City
regarding the Post Office, including pictures and
aerial view, dated
July 9, 2008.
- TOPCA STATEMENT: During
July 2009, members of the TOPCA Executive met twice
with representatives of
Davies Smith
Developments
Davies Smith devoted considerable effort towards community engagement on this venture, and provided professional evaluation tools while seeking citizen input. In the end all agreed this very special location needs to be developed as a "true gem".
After two unsuccessful private development proposals, it is now very clear that adaptive reuse of the Port Credit Post Office site will require more proactive involvement by the City's Planning Department, our Councillor, residents and other levels of government to realize the appropriate kind of development envisioned in the City’s exciting new Port Credit Directions Report.
This critical gateway site at the junction of the mainstreet (Lakeshore Rd.) and the Credit riverbank must be a focal point for both economic and public needs, not only on the old Post Office site itself, but in close harmony with adjacent retail, harbour parks and the extensive federal port lands to the south (at the Marina). A mistake here would be very damaging to the overall plans for the comprehensive redevelopment planned for Port Credit's waterfront.
Ward 1 Councillor Carmen Corbasson put this topic on the Agenda of the Port Credit Local Advisory Panel, which met on Sept. 15, 2009. TOPCA is represented on this Panel. The Panel's objective was to determine how to inspire and attract innovative development proposals for this unique site. Mixed land uses, transportation innovations and area-wide, rather than site-specific solutions to issues such as parking, loading docks, etc., will need to be part of the design package to achieve the vision citizens have worked so hard to create for our historic waterfront village. Click here to view the Minutes of the PCLAP meeting.
The Post Office site is a unique redevelopment opportunity and TOPCA looks forward to a joint, proactive effort to attract an equally unique development proposal for the site. -- end of statement
- COMMUNITY VISION: A
community-driven vision for the Post Office redevelopment was
presented at
TOPCA's Public Meeting on November 4, 2009. Architect
Michael Spaziani (MSAi)
generously consulted pro bono with TOPCA for this endeavour.
Click here for PROGRAM including bios.
- HISTORIC PHOTO:
Click to view an
historic photo of the original Post Office building (without the
additions) showing the western face with the original windows.
- Images of the Adaptive
Reuse Development Proposal created by MSAi for the
Post Office Site are now available. Click to view:
Site Plan (superimposed on aerial photo)
Lakeshore Elevation
3-D image 1 (Rear view, looking North)
3-D image 2 (Lakeshore Rd view looking East)
3-D image 3 (Stavebank Rd view, looking West)
3-D image 4 (Aerial view of proposed 2nd building in rear, looking North)
Basement & Ground Floor plans
2nd & 3rd Storey plans
Related Nautical Heritage images
Related Adaptive Reuse images
Pro forma cost/revenue: 3-storey scenario
Pro forma cost/revenue: 3-storey scenario w/reduced community space
Pro forma cost/revenue: 4-storey scenario
- MEETING WITH CITY: The design images have now been updated and were presented at a meeting on January 12, 2010 with Mayor Hazel McCallion, Councillor Carmen Corbasson, the 3 Commissioners for Community Services, Planning, and Transportation, senior City staff and the reps of 8 local community organizations in order to discuss options for the Post Office site. All parties want to ensure that appropriate redevelopment of this acknowledged 'gem' occurs. The presentation is up on Flickr with inspiring new 3-D images (click to view).
1% Infrastructure Property Tax Levy
- City Council approved, in principle, a 5% Infrastructure Tax Levy last November (2007). Click here to read more.
- The TOPCA Executive wrote a letter to the Mayor, our MP and our MPP concerning the proposed Tax Levy. Click here to read TOPCA’s letter.
- Subsequently Council voted for a 1%
tax levy.
Click here to read the City’s announcement.
Lakeshore / Stavebank Intersection
- The City’s Transportation and Works Dept. is proposing realignment of this intersection to increase safety and efficiency. Click here to read more.
BC21 Project: Our Future Mississauga
- On October 24, 2007, TOPCA sponsored a “Community Conversation” at Clarke Hall for over 100 participants from Port Credit. This was part of the City of Mississauga's initiative: Building a City for the 21st Century, and was led by Andrew McNeill, Strategic Leader for the BC21 project. The City has embarked on a series of “conversations” with various communities to develop a shared vision for our City’s future over the next 33 years and hear what residents envision by the year 2040. The session included a presentation, and a facilitated discussion to gather our ideas and input. Click here for the BC21 Project website.
- On April 22, 2009 Council approved a new Strategic Plan setting the Vision for the City of Mississauga. The Plan is based on the thousands of ideas collected throughout the Our Future Mississauga community engagement process and is designed to build our city for the 21st century. Information about the Strategic Plan is available at www.conversation21.ca
- On May 26, 2009 at the Living Arts Centre the public was invited to hear keynote speaker Dr. David Suzuki and see a presentation of the City’s new Strategic Plan. In mid-June there will be access to Mississauga's Strategic Plan website at its new home: OurFutureMississauga.ca.
- The City's Downtown21 Master Plan grew from the Visioning process of the BC21 project. Go to www.downtown21.ca for further details. Mississauga News article (June 30, 2009): "‘Main Street’ to anchor City Centre".
- PUBLIC MEETING: Presentation of the final Downtown21 Master Plan Tues. January 19, 2010 @ 7-9 p.m. at City Hall (Council Chamber)
Recycling
- The Region of Peel has highlighted some of the problematic non-recyclable items that are being placed in the recycling stream at the curb and in multi-residential units. Click here to see pictures of the Top 5 Non-Recyclable Items found in the Blue Box. Of most concern: home health-care waste, household hazardous waste, dishes and cookware, shoes and textiles, and automotive parts.
Watermain Projects in Ward 1, 2009-2010
- The Region of Peel has provided a listing of infrastructure stimulus projects in 2009 and 2010, including Port Credit. Click here for listing. Click here for map.
GO Transit: Third Line
- Work is proceeding on the third mainline track between
Mississauga and Oakville, which will enable the expansion of GO
train service on this busy rail corridor. For further details on
this project click the link below:
www.gotransit.com/gotrip/index.asp (when you are there, then click on Lakeshore West Line: Port Credit to Kerr St.). - The placement of the trestle onto the new concrete foundations at the Credit River CNR crossing in Port Credit took place in the early hours of Sunday, August 9, 2008. Click here for photos.
FRAM / Slokker North Property
(15 Hurontario St. at Lakeshore Road)
- Council unanimously approved this development on June 25, 2007.
The 22 storey condo and the 7 storey seniors' residences will be
under construction soon.
Click here to read more.