That administration DEVELOP this project proposal in consultation with community stakeholders."

On October 7, 2019, Council further approved CR524/2019

"That Administration BE REQUESTED to provide two reports to Council for consideration related to funding for this eco-passage (background report SCM 352/2019 attached) at the same time as consideration of CR463/2019: That administration BE DIRECTED to develop a capital project proposal to address road mortality through the Ojibway corridor for consideration for Council's consideration in the 2020 capital budget, along with funding opportunities provincially, federally and from the Town of LaSalle is brought forward to Council."

Discussion:

Ojibway Parkway Eco-passage Project

The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) announced, as part of its community benefits package for the Sandwich Street Improvements, seed money in the amount of $1.5 M for an eco-passage (landscape bridge) connecting the Black Oak Heritage Park and Ojibway Park, as a joint project with the City of Windsor.

Ontario's Provincial Policy statement requires that the diversity and connectivity of natural features, as well as the long-term ecological function and biodiversity of natural heritage systems be maintained, restored or, where possible, improved (Provincial Policy Statement, section 2.1.2). When natural areas become fragmented by roads and other developments, populations of plants and animals become isolated and begin to fail as functioning ecosystems. Genetic and species diversity decline and the ability of native species to withstand invasive species and disease is weakened. These factors result in reduced populations which increases the risk of extinction. Ojibway Prairie Complex is currently home to more than 160 rare species. This eco-passage (landscape bridge) will not only re-connect two nationally significant natural areas but will also provide safe passage for area wildlife and species at risk in the Ojibway Prairie Complex. Approximately 20,000 vehicles per day travel along the Ojibway Parkway and E.C. Row Expressway. This contributes heavily to wildlife mortality.

The Corporation of the City of Windsor is currently completing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a qualified proponent to undertake a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) study for a proposed Eco-Passage (Bridge) over Ojibway Parkway in the City of Windsor. The EA will identify any potential impacts as a result of such a structure and identify potential location, the type of structure required and a high level budget cost to pursue this project. We endeavour to have a qualified consultant chosen by mid December 2019. It is anticipated to have the EA completed by September of 2020. The details of the EA will formulate the basis to confirm the overall project budget as well as pursue additional funding grant opportunities. Following this, provided project approvals and budget are in place, administration can proceed with detailed engineering design and construction of the eco-passage structure.