Public provide input on Windows to the Lake
There was excellent turnout at the public meeting to review staff proposals to enhance the Windows to the Lake at the road ends of St. Paul St. and Market St. The plans are a result of the previous council decision to sell off city-owned waterfront land between these two road ends to adjacent homeowners, and develop windows to the lake for public use in a “minimalistic” fashion.
Though it wasn’t part of the original staff direction, staff took the initiative to present plans for Green St., in response to concerns from residents about this area being neglected and overgrown.
To see the powerpoint from the meeting showing the concepts for each Window to the Lake visit:
Windows to the Lake presentation April 2015
Overall, the plans include a bench, garbage can, bike rack, fence options at water’s edge, and paved accessible path to allow people with mobility devices to use the park.
Some of the key themes that emerged:
Staff asked for feedback on lighting – should there be any? What type? Input ranged from no lighting to a motion activated light.
Staff asked for feedback on fencing at the water’s edge, given the height above the lake. Several options were presented including metal, iron and post and chain style, the latter found at the Port Nelson Park. Residents had different perspectives on fencing type.
Staff also asked for feedback on tree planting, with some residents asking for some trees to be planted for shade.
Residents immediately adjacent to the Windows also expressed concerns about security and plans the city might have to ensure the public does not venture onto private lands. Some of the abutting residents have previously fenced their private lands.
Staff kept notes of resident feedback to help inform their final recommendations.
Staff will review all of the public feedback and bring their recommendations via a report to the June 16 Community & Corporate Services Committee first, then the June 22 council meeting for final approval. Residents can attend both meetings and provide input.
What elements would you like to see at the Windows to the Lake? Leave a comment below.
June 8, 2015 @ 5:53 pm
I stand by my comments made in a 2014 letter with respect to our city selling out to a few individuals who want exclusive rights to the land and views in front of their homes beside Lake Ontario. This land is owned by us, the taxpayers of Burlington. I submit again, places I have visited where city officials have planned and created walkways beside varied forms of waterfront in order for regular folk to also enjoy these views: Hamilton, Calgary, Edmonton, Pittsburgh, Seattle, Chicago, West Vancouver, as well as most other areas in Vancouver. I can add one more that I recently visited: Williamsport, Pennsylvania. This (somewhat struggling) feisty town of 30,000 has, in the last decade, completed 4km of beautiful walkways on both sides of the levee bordering the Susquehanna River. If you build it, they will come and use it.
April 21, 2015 @ 10:30 am
I would love to see a window to the lake at the bottom of Green street, it’s such an eyesore as it stands now, what a waste of beautiful green space. Many senior residents would welcome a place to sit and rest while taking in such a beautiful view.
April 16, 2015 @ 1:28 pm
The windows on the lake at the end of roads are a hidden and much appreciated jewel for walkers and cyclists. The lake is what makes Burlington such a nice place to live. As more and more lake access is effectively closed by development of waterfront condos and commercial sites, taking advantage of this micro-points should be encouraged. The emphasis should be on green and minimalistic spaces, which would encourage quiet viewing by passersby and discourage parking or noisy activities. Which is respectful to the neighbouring properties
April 16, 2015 @ 10:31 am
I would like to see the bottom of Green Street to be included in this Windows to the Lake Project as it’s an overgrown eye-sore.
Even removing the trees & bushes obstructing the view to the lake would be a huge improvement if there is not budget for benches, lights,etc.
The front of our home faces this eye-sore and look forward to finally having a view to the lake.
April 9, 2015 @ 5:25 am
Any natural site which affords an opportunity for quiet, peaceful, restful relaxation should be actively promoted. Being a golden oldie, we do have a bit of a problem with Muskoka chairs. If we’re at rest for a long time, our old creaking bones and physiques tend to take on the configuration of the chair.
… “Oh look ma, there’s some more walking Muskoka chairs!”
April 8, 2015 @ 2:54 pm
Has the selling price of the adjacent lots been determined yet?