Section F SWOT Analysis

F.1 Land Use

Strengths

• The study area is a relatively complete area containing retail and service commercial, residential, recreational, open space, and institutional uses

• It contains a range of retail and commercial uses that provide the goods and services needed by residents on a day-to-day basis

• It has anchor destinations that draw residents to the study area, including the University of Windsor, a recreational complex, an out-door swimming pool, and a number of churches

Weaknesses

• The study area is dominated by businesses that provide services; consequently, there is a relatively smaller percentage of shops that sell retail goods Opportunities

• There is an opportunity for medium and higher density residential infilling which may help to provide a population base for increased commercial diversity

Threats

• N/A

F.3 Built Form

Strengths 

• Most buildings appear to be in relatively good physical condition

Weaknesses

• The overall aesthetic quality and visual impression of buildings in the study area is poor
  
  
• The façades of buildings are generally worn and dated; they would benefit from façade improvements

Opportunities

• Some buildings may be suitable for redevelopment
  
  
• A façade improvement program would promote aesthetic enhancement

Threats

• The presence of a large number of unappealing structures may negatively affect the City’s overall image

F.3 Heritage

Strengths

• Twelve properties designated under the Ontario Heritage Act
  
  
• There are several buildings with heritage features and façades that reflect the historic identity of the area

Weaknesses

• Many properties of historic interest have not been well‐ maintained, or have been modified with non‐ historic materials
  
  
• Signage for a large majority of buildings is contemporary in style and materials

Opportunities

• There are opportunities to restore some properties of interest, and ensure continued maintenance and adaptive reuse of designated properties

Threats

• Lack of appropriate maintenance and restoration threatens viability of reusing historical properties

F.4 Streetscape

Strengths

• Wide right-of-way along University Avenue.
  
  
• High quality streetscaping along Wyandotte Street West around the University of Windsor and adjacent commercial cluster.

Weaknesses

• Streets are solely functional in nature, generally lacking the consistent pattern of streetscape amenities that help make streets great public spaces (amenities such as benches, bike racks, garbage receptacles, pedestrian lighting, and public art)

Opportunities

• Additional streetscape amenities that facilitate the engagement of various activities among people should be introduced

Threats

• N/A