Downtown Advisory Committee

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Schmalz Room - Second Floor City Hall
City of Kitchener
200 King Street W, Kitchener, ON N2G 4G7
Present:
  • J. Leslie, Member
  • D. Chapman, Councillor
  • S. Stretch, Councillor
  • E. Kurian, Committee Member
  • J. Leasa, Committee Member
  • R. Peers, Committee Member
  • C. Stockie, Committee Member
  • M. Weicker, Committee Member
  • J. Wheeler, Committee Member
  • B. Court, Committee Member
  • A. Yescas, Committee Member
Staff:
  • A. Nguyen, Committee Administrator
  • A. Hertzog, Manager, Downtown Development and Innovation
  • B. Cronkite, Director of Transportation Services
  • A. Pinto, Project Manager, Parking Operations

1.
Commencement

 

The meeting commenced at 4:00 p.m.

The meeting began with a Land Acknowledgement given by the Chair.

2.
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof

 

3.
Delegations

 

4.
Discussion Items

 

4.1
Long-term parking strategy

30 m
 

The committee discussed increasing demand for parking, driven by population growth and the unpredictable rise in vehicle demand, with strategies in place to manage this. Questions were raised about whether parking projections were based on actual demand or planning models, particularly regarding residential parking utilization, which reached 146% during peak times. There was concern about vertical growth and parking limitations, prompting a short-term recommendation to Council.

Feedback was given on accessible parking, with on-street spaces positioned near entrances, though not bound by AODA regulations. Surface lots were noted to be easier to manage than parking garages. Concerns about potential conflicts with pedestrians were raised, especially with drop-off zones, and it was noted that cycling poses more significant conflict points.

Questions about a free parking model were discussed, acknowledging it’s not a feasible approach for Kitchener. There was also a query about the demographic breakdown of parking demand, which has yet to be analyzed but will be followed up. We will follow up on demographic analysis and continue refining the parking strategy.

4.2
BIAs Updates

15 m
 

The 2024 downtown programs are off to a strong start, with returning initiatives such as the Palette x Palate event, which activates downtown corners and sidewalks with food, art, and music from local businesses. This year, additional color and art installations will enhance the event, with several artists contributing to the creative atmosphere. The Patio Launch Party is also back, promising vibrant music and new creative touches.

DTK Own It, the beautiful magazine showcasing downtown, is set to launch on June 14. Other returning events include the Far East Asian Night Market, Sunset Sessions (offering free public access), and the Bite-by-Bite event at the Crowne Plaza.

R. Peers raised concerns about lighting, specifically the challenges with receptacles and the forecasting for the past five years. A safety walk is scheduled for next week to examine lighting needs and ensure improvements.

E. Kurian inquired about the Asian Market, asking whether downtown businesses are included. The response clarified that the event will embrace a broad range of Asian markets, including those from Indian and Pakistani communities, ensuring diverse representation.

4.3
Downtown Updates

30 m
 

DTK Team shared updates on short-term and long-term safety initiatives. The Core 8 Taskforce meets weekly and includes a group of 40 community stakeholders, including social services, school boards, hospitals, and councillors. A Bloomberg exercise identified key safety concerns around downtown, addressing root causes and outlining next steps. A Safety Card has been updated to include relevant contacts for businesses, and 4 downtown safety ambassadors are active. The BIA will pilot funding for 2 more ambassadors in September to assist businesses during the patio season. Police presence downtown is ongoing. Councillor Stretch highlighted that the Core 8 group’s leadership allows for quick adjustments and decision-making.

Patio Season: Patio season is officially back in downtown Kitchener, with patios set to be installed during Easter week. This year’s patio beautification includes vibrant artwork to enhance the atmosphere. The application process has been streamlined with new templates and guidelines, making it easier for businesses to set up. 

4.4
Open Discussion

30 m
 

5.
Information Items

 

6.
Adjournment

 

The meeting adjourned at 5:50 PM.

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