Marianne Wilkinson Councillor, Kanata North Goulbourn Forced Road Study Approval

The Environmental Assessment study to determine the best location for the Goulbourn Forced Road will be presented to the Transportation Committee on June 20th. The recommended alignment will roughly follow the existing alignment from Kanata Avenue to just past the Kizell Drain where it will swing west to cross the railway track and follow a new alignment to Terry Fox west of the present end of Terry Fox at Flamborough. The alignment will inclued two traffic circles designed to reduce speeding along the road. There are three areas of concern. One is at Kanata Avenue where the intersection (which will have traffic lights) will mean that you will not be able to turn left into the western entrance to All Saints High School. The second is the crossing of the Kizell Drain where a culvert is recommended rather than the bridge or double culvert (one being above the waterline for pedestrians and wildlife) requested by the community. Staff indicated a bridge would add $1.2 million to the project and create interesection difficulties at the entrance to the Kanata Rockeries so they're recommending the cheaper alternative. The third is the location at Terry Fox which will be to the west of the future Second Line intersection with Terry Fox. The report is available online by going to the Transportation Committee agenda and clicking in the agenda item. I would appreciate hearing about any comments you might have prior to the meeting. You can make a 5 minute presentation to the Committee by registering with the Committee Secretary, Anne-Marie Leung 613580-2424 ext. 21385, Anne-Marie.Leung@ottawa.ca. Once the EA is approved, provided there are no appeals, staff will prepare the detailed plans for the road, tender phase one and construction will start. As these steps take 6-8 months construction won't start until early 2008.

Mayor's Task Force on Transportation

The Task Force Report recommends some immediate work that will serve Kanata North. These include finishing the Western Transitway (the part from Bayshore to Pinecrest will be under construction this summer) and continuing construction of Terry Fox Drive. As Vice-Chair of the Transit Committee I'll be involved in discussions on the proposal, detailing costs and making final recommendations on an overall transportation plan, including both transit and roads. I like much of the plan but there is a lot to do before it can be implemented, including environmental assessments of the proposed downtown tunnel and each proposed corridor as required under provincial law. The City had already started a review of the transportation master plan (yes there is one and it can be viewed online) and the Task Force recommendations will be an integral part of the review.

Jobs For Youth

The Service Canada Centre for Youth opened its Kanata office at 150 Katimavik Road last week. The centre serves those under the age of 30 looking for summer jobs or full employment. It's a great service that will help in career planning, developing your resume and preparing for an interview. Contact them at 613-2545701, email kanata.sccy@gmail.com to access their services.

My Health
Two weeks ago my doctor informed me that tests have shown that I have breast cancer. This cancer was found through my latest routine mammogram. I urge all women, particularly those over 50, to ensure that they have regular mammograms. Early diagnosis means a high possibility of a long time cure. You do not need a doctor's referral, just call the Ontario Breast Screening Programme at 613-7280777 for an appointment. On Tuesday of this week I will have undergone surgery to start my treatment. My staff will continue to deal with your inquiries while I recover.

Coming Events
June 16th, Morgan's Grant/Briarbrook 1st Multicultural Summer Festival June 19th Ottawa Police Planning for the Future, Kanata Recreation Centre, Walter Baker Park, 6:30-9 pm June 23rd, Kanata Lake's Kids Day in the Park June 23rd, Lawn Supper, St. John's Church, 325 Sandhill June 23rd, Give-Away Day July 1st, Canada Day in Kanata at Walter Baker Park, Terry Fox and Hazeldean

Working for the residents and businesses in Kanata North

To receive the Kanata North Newsletter, to deal with a concern or make a suggestion contact my staff at City Hall at 613-580-2474 or by email Marianne.Wilkinson@ottawa.ca or through www.mariannewilkinson.com