Transportation Master Plan - Ottawa Confederation Line

and techniques, and surface water runoff will be treated using methods specified by the Ministry
of the Environment before it is released into open waterways.
Vegetation. Some trees and plants are removed when transportation infrastructure is built, and
others are affected by road use and maintenance. Particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitrous
oxides and volatile organic compounds emitted by vehicles can harm vegetation, and the use of
road salt in winter also impacts plant health. The City is reducing road salt use and "greening" its
roadways, guided by its Salt Management Strategy and Greening Guidelines. This plan’s intent to
minimize automobile use will reduce the need for new infrastructure and limit air emissions.
Land consumption. To minimize the consumption of valuable agricultural and natural resource
lands by transportation infrastructure expansion, the City will continue to maximize the efficient
operation of existing facilities before adding new ones. It will also work to increase the use of
walking, cycling and transit, which use space more efficiently than motor vehicles.
Noise. This plan aims to protect communities from unacceptable levels of noise from
transportation services including aircraft noise, and noise from roads, transit and heavy rail
facilities. The City’s Environmental Noise Control Guidelines, which are consistent with
regulation and guidelines of the Provincial Ministry of the Environment, identify different noise
sources and design criteria, and regulate noise control measures. Readers may also refer to the
Official Plan for policies on acceptable noise levels for land uses including outdoor residential
areas.
The City will:
1. Apply best practices for environmental impact mitigation of construction, surface
operations and maintenance activities.
2. Encourage a reduction in motor vehicle emissions through measures including antiidling
initiatives, scrappage programs for high-polluting vehicles, and promotion of
fuel-efficient vehicles, low-carbon fuels, proper driving habits and vehicle maintenance.
3. Reduce carbon emissions from transit vehicles and other City vehicles.
4. Educate and inform the public about climate change and local initiatives to reduce air
pollution.
5. Incorporate best practices for storm water management design into transportation
projects.
6. Implement enhanced greening guidelines for roads, rapid transit lines and multi-use
pathways, including streetscaping and tree planting in the construction or
reconstruction of all arterial, major collector and collector roads.
7. Implement noise control measures through the planning process for new communities
and transportation facilities, emphasizing the use of design and landscaping measures
rather than noise attenuation barriers.
TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN Page 33
NOVEMBER 2008