The Class EA will consider options to address the multi-modal traffic needs (vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists) as well as municipal servicing improvements (watermains, sanitary sewer and drainage) of the corridor in consideration of ongoing and planned development. This study is being carried out as a Schedule 'C' project under the Municipal Engineers Association Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (October 2000, as amended), which is planning process approved under Ontario's Environmental Assessment Act.
For improvements to Highbury Avenue and South Edgeware Road, Phase 1 and 2 of the EA planning process were addressed through the City of St. Thomas TMP update. The portion of the study considering options to improve connectivity with St. Thomas Expressway will address Phases 1 to 4 of the Municipal Class EA process.
In identifying the recommended improvements, the study will consider technical and aesthetic requirements as well as socio-economic, cultural heritage, and natural environment factors. Upon completion of the study, an Environmental Study Report (ESR) will be prepared to document the Municipal Class EA planning and decision-making process and made available for a 30-day public review period. In addition, the ESR will satisfy the requirements of the MTO Class EA for Provincial Transportation Facilities for a Group 'B' project. A Notice of Completion will be issued at that stage.