Agenda - Environmental Advisory Committee - 20220622Town of Aurora
Environmental Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Date:Wednesday, June 22, 2022
Time:7 p.m.
Location:Video Conference
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, meetings will be available to the public via live stream only on
the Town’s YouTube Channel. To participate electronically, please visit aurora.ca/participation.
Pages
1.Call to Order
2.Land Acknowledgement
3.Approval of the Agenda
4.Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
5.Receipt of the Minutes
5.1.Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of May 4, 2022 1
That the Environmental Advisory Committee meeting minutes of May 4,
2022, be received for information.
6.Delegations
7.Matters for Consideration
7.1.Memorandum from Energy and Climate Change Analyst; Re: Climate
Change Adaptation Plan - Implementation Plan
5
That the memorandum regarding Climate Change Adaptation
Plan – Implementation Plan be received; and
1.
That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments
regarding Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Implementation
Plan be received and referred to staff for consideration and
further action as appropriate.
2.
7.2.Memorandum from Energy and Climate Change Analyst; Re: Corporate
Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report
175
That the memorandum regarding Corporate Environmental
Action Plan 2021 Progress Report be received; and
1.
That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments
regarding Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress
Report be received and referred to staff for consideration and
further action as appropriate.
2.
7.3.Round Table Discussion; Re: Unauthorized Private Use of Adjacent
Environmentally Protected Ravine Lands
That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments
regarding Unauthorized Private Use of Adjacent Environmentally
Protected Ravine Lands be received and referred to staff for
consideration and further action as appropriate.
1.
8.Informational Items
8.1.Environmental Advisory Committee Update List 202
That the Environmental Advisory Committee Update List be
received for information.
1.
9.Adjournment
1
Town of Aurora
Environmental Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date:
Time:
Location:
Wednesday, May 4, 2022
7 p.m.
Video Conference
Committee Members: Councillor Rachel Gilliland (Chair)
Councillor Wendy Gaertner (Vice Chair)
Barry Bridgeford
Colin Brown
Sam Cunningham
Ashley Gatto Cassagrande
Ryan Hamid (arrived 7:48 p.m.)
Sandy Hudson
Members Absent: Crystal Robertson
Other Attendees: Lisa Hausz, Manager, Economic Development and Policy
Nick Kazakoff, Economic Development Officer
Natalie Kehle, Energy and Climate Change Analyst
Sebastian Contarin, Energy and Climate Change Analyst
Linda Bottos, Council/Committee Coordinator
_____________________________________________________________________
1. Call to Order
The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
Natalie Kehle introduced Sebastian Contarin, the Town’s new Energy and Climate
Change Analyst, who will also serve as Staff Liaison to the Committee, replacing
Natalie during her leave of absence starting in May 2022.
Page 1 of 202
2
2. Land Acknowledgement
The Committee acknowledged that the meeting took place on the traditional
territory of the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples whose
presence here continues to this day. It was noted that Aurora is part of the treaty
lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit and the Williams Treaties First Nations,
and we thank them for sharing the land.
3. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Ashley Gatto Cassagrande
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
Carried
4. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.50.
5. Receipt of the Minutes
5.1 Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of February 23, 2022
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Ashley Gatto Cassagrande
That the Environmental Advisory Committee meeting minutes of February
23, 2022, be received for information.
Carried
6. Delegations
None.
7. Matters for Consideration
Page 2 of 202
3
7.1 Memorandum from Energy and Climate Change Analyst; Re: Climate
Change Adaptation Plan
Lisa MacTavish, Advisor, Climate Change Risk and Resilience, WSP,
presented an overview of the Climate Change Adaption Plan, including
project scope, climate change overview, risk assessment process, top
risks, recommendations, and conclusions. Christina Schwantes, Specialist,
Climate Change, Resilience and Sustainability, WSP, was also present to
answer any questions.
The Committee provided feedback and inquired about various aspects
related to the plan including risk and cost assessments, downstream
flooding impacts, protection of natural heritage assets, public education
on flood mitigation and protection for homeowners, flood control and
preservation of park assets, budgeting for green infrastructure, potential
loss of power, emergency preparedness, design standards and budgeting
for climate adaptation, and collaboration with other municipalities and
partners. The consultants and staff provided further clarification.
Moved by Sandy Hudson
Seconded by Sam Cunningham
1. That the memorandum regarding Climate Change Adaptation Plan be
received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding
Climate Change Adaptation Plan be received and referred to staff for
consideration and further action as appropriate.
Carried
7.2 Memorandum from Economic Development Officer; Re: Community
Improvement Plan Review Consultation
Staff presented an overview of the memorandum including background on
the Promenade Area Community Improvement Plan (CIP), a best practice
review of the seven programs in the initial Plan in comparison with
neighbouring municipalities, and next steps. Staff sought Committee input
on the proposed four priority areas of the updated CIP with a focus on the
environment and sustainability. The Committee provided feedback and
inquired about various aspects including historical uptake of the CIP
programs, suggestions to make the application process easier and more
Page 3 of 202
4
accessible, funding, and criteria for sustainability-related incentives. Staff
provided clarification and noted that the CIP update will align with the
Town’s Official Plan and the new Green Development Standards.
Moved by Ryan Hamid
Seconded by Ashley Gatto Cassagrande
1. That the memorandum regarding Community Improvement Plan
Review Consultation be received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding
Community Improvement Plan Review Consultation be received and
referred to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate.
Carried
8. Informational Items
8.1 Environmental Advisory Committee Update List
Moved by Colin Brown
Seconded by Sam Cunningham
1. That the Environmental Advisory Committee Update List be received
for information.
Carried
9. Adjournment
Moved by Sam Cunningham
Seconded by Ashley Gatto Cassagrande
That the meeting be adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Carried
Page 4 of 202
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Planning and Development Services
Re: Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Implementation Plan
To: Environmental Advisory Committee
From: Sebastian Contarin, Energy and Climate Change Analyst
Date: June 22, 2022
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Implementation
Plan be received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding Climate Change
Adaptation Plan – Implementation Plan be received and referred to staff for
consideration and further action as appropriate.
Executive Summary
The Town of Aurora has been undertaking the development of a Climate Change
Adaptation Plan (CCAP) which aims to conduct a climate change vulnerability and risk
assessment and develop an implementation plan that informs asset management
planning and increase the resilience of the Town of Aurora’s infrastructure. The
Implementation plan represents the last phase of the Public Infrastructure Engineering
Vulnerability Committee (PIEVC) protocol and provides recommended adaptation
actions to be addressed across the Town’s four respected asset types: linear
infrastructure (roads, stormwater), water infrastructure, parks and natural heritage and
facilities. The following report presents an update of the implementation plan,
specifically involving the plan's recommended adaptation actions and their respective
details for successful implementation.
The preliminary results of the risk and vulnerability assessment identified medium risks
areas to Town infrastructure but no high-risk areas.
Page 5 of 202
Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Implementation Plan
June 22, 2022 Page 2 of 5
Linear Engineered Assets (10 action items): Actions focus on improving the
resilience of the stormwater system and road maintenance and operations to
extreme shifts in precipitation and temperature events respectively;
Water Infrastructure Assets (7 action items): Actions focus on understanding the
capacity and vulnerability of water and sanitary networks to manage risk related to
heavy precipitation and severe weather events;
Parks and Natural Heritage System Assets (7 action items): Actions focus on
operations and maintenance changes and exploring solutions, such as green
infrastructure, to improve water use and storage for landscaping as well as
moderating extreme temperature and stormwater runoff events.
Facilities (9 action items): Actions focus on incorporating future climate projections
into future cooling system upgrades and improving operation and maintenance
procedures to identify and correct weather-related damage to facilities before major
repairs are required.
Background
The Climate Change Adaptation Plan (CCAP) is informed by a climate change risk and
vulnerability assessment completed using the Public Infrastructure Engineering
Vulnerability Committee (PIEVC) protocol. The PIEVC protocol is a nationally recognized
tool for assessing infrastructure risk due to climate change. It is represented as a five-
step process including project definition, data collection, risk assessment, engineering
analysis, and conclusions and recommendations. The Implementation plan represents
the last phase of the PIEVC protocol and provides recommended adaptation actions to
be addressed across the Town’s four respected asset types,
Linear Engineering Assets (Roads and Stormwater);
Water Infrastructure;
Parks and Natural Heritage Systems; and
Facilities (Buildings).
Potential adaptation actions are proposed for all risks rated medium or above identified
through the risk assessment process. These actions are informed by feedback from the
risk workshop and input from the WSP project team with expertise related to each risk.
In addition to the list of proposed actions, the plan also includes the associated
implementation details required for successful implementation. These details including
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Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Implementation Plan
June 22, 2022 Page 3 of 5
priority, approximate duration, cost, and the Town staff lead responsible for
implementation.
Actions and Justifications
Descriptions of the recommended adaptation actions and how and why these
contribute to resilience in the specific infrastructure category.
Risk Rating
The rating of the highest risk that the action is aimed to address. For this project, risk
was classified under four (4) categories:
i. Low Risk: interactions represent no immediate vulnerability associated with the
infrastructure component. No further action is recommended for low risks.
ii. Medium Risk: interactions represent a potential vulnerability. Medium risks may
require mitigative action. Medium risks are further broken down into low-medium
and high-medium risks to aid in the prioritization of mitigation measures.
iii. High Risk: interactions represent an identified vulnerability. Mitigative actions are
required to ensure the viability of the infrastructure.
iv. Special Cases: may warrant specific mitigative measures due to
either a severe outcome and low probability of occurrence, or a high probability
and low severity event.
Risk Range Threshold Response
0 - 11 Low Risk No action necessary.
12 - 36
Low medium risk (12-25) Action and/or an engineering analysis may
be required.
High medium risk (26-36)
= 7 Special Case
Requires special attention in risk
assessment to determine if action is
necessary.
Priority
Relates to the urgency with which the action should be pursued. It consists of three
types:
i. Short-term: Actions should be implemented within the next 1-5 years;
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Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Implementation Plan
June 22, 2022 Page 4 of 5
ii. Medium-term: Actions should be planned and budgeted soon, but implemented in
the next 5-10 years; and
iii. Long-term: Actions should be evaluated and planned for over time and
implemented on an ongoing basis or in the long-term (>10 years).
Duration
An estimate of the required timeline based on the action type to help inform planning
and budgeting.
Cost Range
Order of magnitude cost estimates for the adaptation actions. These have been
developed with input from SMEs and are based on similar projects, current marketing
conditions, and costs. Cost ranges are broken down as follows:
Symbology Cost Range
$ <$10,000
$$ $10,000-$100,000
$$$ $100,000-$1M
$$$$ $1M+
Analysis
The preliminary results of the risk and vulnerability assessment identified low and
medium risks areas to Town infrastructure but no high-risk areas.
The climate change risk assessment completed using the PIEVC protocol resulted in 60
medium risks and no high risks. The highest risks identified in this assessment were
associated with the stormwater and sanitary systems due to potential risk of flooding
and backups, HVAC systems in facilities needing to manage higher temperatures in the
future and playing field maintenance after both heatwaves and flooding events which
may become more frequent in the future.
Linear Engineered Assets
Most risks related to Linear Assets are caused by an increase in extreme precipitation
that may overwhelm stormwater systems leading to localized flooding and erosion of
stormwater channels and roadsides. Actions for this asset category focus on improving
the resilience of the stormwater system to both extreme precipitation and drought
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Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Implementation Plan
June 22, 2022 Page 5 of 5
events. Actions are also directed at improving road maintenance and operations to
manage increasing degradation from shifting temperatures and extreme events.
Water Infrastructure Assets
The highest rated moderate risks to the water and sanitary networks relate to increasing
precipitation and flooding during extreme events. Actions for this asset category focus
on understanding the capacity and vulnerability of water and sanitary networks to
manage risk related to heavy precipitation and severe weather events that may damage
components, overload systems capacity, or cause indirect issues like power outages.
Parks and Natural Heritage Systems
Most risks associated with Parks and Natural Heritage are related to damaged
landscaping from increasing temperatures and severe weather events. Increasing
temperatures may also impact the operation of recreation facilities like ice rinks,
requiring more maintenance and increasing operating costs. Actions to adapt parks and
natural heritage assets to climate change focus on operations and maintenance
changes and exploring solutions, such as green infrastructure integration, to improve
water use and storage for landscaping needs. Green infrastructure assets serve as a
dual benefit to climate action, providing adaptation and mitigation-based solutions to
combat rapid changes in temperature and precipitation. Common functions such as
stormwater management, canopy shading, evaporative cooling, and carbon
sequestration allow green infrastructure to provide support in moderating extreme
temperature and stormwater runoff events.
Facilities (Buildings)
The highest rated moderate risks for facilities are related to increases in extreme
summer temperatures, which may exceed building cooling capacities. Risks are also
present for damage related to heavy precipitation and severe weather events.
Adaptation actions for facilities focus on incorporating future climate projections into
future cooling system upgrades and improving operation and maintenance procedures
to identify and correct weather-related damage to facilities before major repairs are
required.
Attachments
Attachment 1 – DRAFT CCAP Implementation Plan
Attachment 2 – DRAFT Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Page 9 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
6.1 Linear Engineered Assets
Most risks related to Linear Assets are caused by an increase in extreme precipitation that may overwhelm stormwater
systems leading to localized flooding and erosion of stormwater channels and roadsides. Actions for this asset category
focus on improving the resilience of the stormwater system to both extreme precipitation and drought events. Actions are
also directed at improving road maintenance and operations to manage increasing degradation from shifting
temperatures and extreme events (Table 9).
Table 9: Adaptation actions for Linear Engineered Assets (Roads and Stormwater)
Action
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
L-1
Apply Low Impact
Development
(LID) and other
"At-source" or "lot level
control"
strategies aimed
at reducing and
delaying
conveyance
system loading.
LID and other source controls can
reduce the volume of water entering
the linear storm system, improving
water quality by capturing and
treating rainfall where it lands. This
will also reduce the risk of
overwhelming the storm systems’
capacity during heavy rainfalls,
avoiding flooding and erosion.
25 Short
10+
(Considerin
g city-wide
improveme
nts)
$$
Development
Planning,
Policy
Planning,
Engineering
Attachment 1
Page 10 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
L-2
Review
maintenance
procedures to
reduce storm and
sanitary system
blockages and
improve levels of
service.
Increased extreme precipitation
events may exceed the capacities of
the stormwater and sanitary
networks. Increasing the frequency
of stormwater inspections following
storm events is a relatively low-cost
option to identify potential problem
areas and undertake preventative
maintenance measures where
needed. Similarly, preventative
inspections and maintenance prior to
large storm events to clear out
blockages can reduce flooding
impacts.
25 Short < 1 $ Operational
Services
L-3
Increase the resilience of
assets identified as vulnerable in
the Tannery Creek Flood
Study and maintain the asset
Management system to
prioritize and track resilience
actions. Consider expanding
floodplain studies to include all
Town infrastructure and
future climate projections.
Increased extreme precipitation
events may exceed the capacities of
the stormwater and sanitary
networks. A floodplain analysis was
conducted to identify areas of
concern within the original developed
area of the town. This study can
guide preliminary actions to improve
flood resilience. Further studies may
be required to account for projected
increases in precipitation. These
should aim to identify the value of
assets at risk, and how risk may
change in the future at each location.
This information should be
maintained in an asset management
system that is updated as resilience
actions are completed.
20 Short < 1 $$ Engineering
Page 11 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
L-4
Increase the resilience of
erosion-prone areas of the
stormwater network in
association with the Stream
Management Master Plan and
LSRCA inspections.
Enhancements such as increased rip
rap and other protections against
erosion at high flow locations such as
headwalls may reduce impacts
associated with extreme precipitation
and flooding. Improvements should
be in line with the Asset
Management Plan, the Stream
Management Master Plan, and
existing work completed in
partnership with the LSRCA. Costs
may be higher if many improvements
are required.
20 Medium 5 years $$ Operational
Services
L-5
Enhance stormwater
management wet pond
protections for drought and
heatwaves.
Plant trees and other drought-resistant
vegetation around
stormwater management wet ponds
to provide shading and reduce
evaporation in high temperatures,
heatwaves, and/or periods of
drought. This may also contribute to
increased urban biodiversity.
16 Medium 5 years $$
Operational
Services
L-6
Increase stormwater
management wet pond
maintenance during drought
and heatwaves.
Increase wet pond inspections and
add water as required to maintain
adequate levels during drought and
heatwave events where drawdown is
a problem. Remove organics if odour
becomes a problem during these
events, and/or where there are
concerns about water quality of
future runoff.
16 Short As required $ Operational
Services
Page 12 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
L-7
Increase the resilience of
erosion-prone areas of the
pedestrian paths and road
network.
Enhancements such as increased rip
rap and other protections against
erosion at vulnerable locations may
prevent damages to roads and
pathways associated with extreme
precipitation and flooding.
Improvements should be in line with
the Asset Management Plan,
targeting potentially vulnerable areas
first due to age, condition, or
potential for erosion. Costs may be
higher if many improvements are
required.
20 Medium 5 years $$ Operational
Services
L-8
Conduct a frost
heave mitigation
program.
Freeze-thaw cycles are projected to
increase in concentration in the
winter and decrease annually, which
may require adjustments to
maintenance schedules to respond
to frost heave damages. Accept that
sidewalk heave will occur and
institute an inspection program to
grind the lips smooth at heave
locations to remove the trip hazards
and associated liability. Should frost
heave damage become a significant
issue, investment into preventative
measures such as replacement of
base course, regrading, ditching, and
crack sealing may reduce damages,
however, requires significant upfront
capital.
12 Long 10 years $$ Operational
Services
Page 13 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
L-9
Conduct a high
visibility signage
replacement
program.
Replacement and/or conversion of all
safety signage to High-Intensity
Prismatic (HIP) or Diamond Grade
sheeting would maximize retro reflectivity
which may be important
for visibility during freezing rain or
poor visibility events. Diamond grade
sheeting also has the longest service
life of available sheeting alternatives.
The Town can monitor for visibility
issues (accidents) and implement
upgrades as needed.
12 Long 5 years $$$ Operational
Services
L-10
Prepare temporary signage for
traffic signals during power
failures.
Ensure traffic signals have temporary
battery backups so these may
continue to operate in power
outages. Consider installing
temporary folding stop signs at
critical intersections as a low-cost,
quickly deployable solution for
extended periods of power outages,
or having some prepared for
deployment when needed.
24 Short 2 years $$ Operational
Services
$:<$10,000
$$: $10,000-$100,000
$$$: $100,000-$1M
$$$$: $1M+D A
Page 14 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Some roads and stormwater assets are located within floodplain areas (Figure 6) and
may be impacted by flooding during extreme precipitation events. The Regional and
100-year Tannery Creek floodplain profiles were mapped as part of the 2019 Town of
Aurora Stream Management Master Plan and Tannery Creek Flood Relief Study
(Aquafor Beech Ltd., 2019). The map below shows the intersection between this
floodplain and the Town’s linear infrastructure. This does not represent all linear assets
that may be affected by extreme precipitation and pluvial (overland) flooding but shows
areas at risk of riverine flooding as assessed in 2019. More detailed information in the
Tannery Creek Flood Study should be consulted in prioritizing flood adaptation actions.
Precipitation associated with future climate conditions has not been modeled, so at-risk
assets are likely to include more than what is shown on the map below and in the recent
flood study. n Description / Justification Risk
Figure 5: Map of Stormwater infrastructure located in floodplain areas .
Page 15 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
6.2 Water Infrastructure Assets
The highest rated moderate risks to the water and sanitary networks relate to increasing precipitation and flooding during
extreme events. Actions for this asset category focus on understanding the capacity and vulnerability of water and
sanitary networks to manage risk related to heavy precipitation and severe weather events that may damage components,
overload systems capacity or cause indirect issues like power outages (Table 10).
Table 10: Adaptation Actions for Water Infrastructure Assets (Water and Sanitary Networks)
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
W-1
Support landowners to protect
their property from sanitary
backups through education
and incentive programs.
Many issues related to sanitary backups
can be addressed at the property level
by ensuring new construction is properly
graded and that owners of new and
existing properties have backflow
protection installed within their property
or building plumbing system. Public
outreach can ensure property owners
understand the risk of sewer backups
and how they can protect their property.
Incentives that offset the cost of backup
valve installation can increase public
uptake, saving property owners and the
municipality money in the long term.
Community outreach is required to raise
awareness and trigger inquiries from
landowners. Building Services
(inspectors) and the Operational
Services team may also be required to
provide input or assessments for certain
sites. Associated costs include staff
time and subsidies.
25 Medium 5-10 years
As low as $
per year,
$$ over 5
years, $$$
over 10
years
Development
Planning,
Policy
Planning,
Engineering,
Building
Services,
Operational
Services
Page 16 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
W-2
Conduct a system-wide
study to understand the
age, conditions,
and capacity of all storm and
sanitary components.
This is a large-scale project that would
help to prioritize long-term planning for
infrastructure construction and
maintenance. The study should address
both sanitary and storm systems and
include hydrologic modeling to
understand system loading issues and
future climate risk. This information
should be maintained up to date in an
asset management system that is
updated as resilience actions are
completed.
25 Medium
to long
5-10
years $$$ Engineering,
GIS / IT
W-3
Continue to develop and
Practice emergency
response plans as part of the
Drinking Water Quality
Management System to
protect and restore critical
water system infrastructure in
the event of damage from
severe storms or natural
disasters.
Storms and extreme precipitation events
are projected to increase in the future,
and these may impact the water and
wastewater systems in the Town. Aside
from the actions recommended to
preventor reduce these impacts,
response planning is also important to
recover quickly from disruptions.
Moderate costs
are associated with updating and
practicing emergency response plans,
but this can save costs in the long-term
by reducing the consequence of and
disruption to services associated with
asset failures.
15 Short 2-5 years $$ Operational
Services
Page 17 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
W-4
Implement flood monitoring
systems at water booster
stations and sanitary lift
stations to identify issues
early before damage to
infrastructure or loss of power
occurs.
An increase in extreme precipitation
events may lead to flooding, which could
impact infrastructure at booster stations
and interrupt service. Manual or
automated monitoring systems can
improve response times and mitigate
the worst impacts of flooding with early
detection. Engineering staff would be
needed to manage the implementation
of the system and determine warning
triggers (whether measured manually or
automatically), and Operations and
Maintenance staff would be needed to
implement response.
15 Short 1-3 years $$ Operational
Services
W-5
Review HVAC sufficiency at all
pumping facilities to ensure
the system is designed for
increased temperatures.
Review HVAC equipment
connections to standby power
in the event of power failures
and maintenance practices in
high-temperature conditions
as needed.
Extreme heat may lead to high
temperatures in pumping stations which
could impact functionality. A review of
cooling capacities at pumping stations
is low-cost and could be coupled with
other asset initiatives (e.g., condition
assessments). New infrastructure
should be designed to consider a larger
range and potentially higher ambient
temperatures. This adaptation measure
would reduce the likelihood of
equipment failures in extreme heat
events.
15 Medium 2-5 years $$
Engineering,
Operational
Services
Page 18 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
W-6
Continue to inspect and
maintain backup generators
for the water booster station
and consider installing backup
power at the sanitary lift
station.
As flooding due to extreme precipitation
and lightning events may lead to more
frequent power outages, having backup
power systems at booster stations helps
avoid or reduce interruptions to the
water network. Installing a fixed or
mobile backup power system at the
sanitary lift station and ensuring that the
generator at the water booster station is
in good working order may become
more important in the future.
15 Medium 2-5 years $$
Engineering,
Operational
Services
W-7
Monitor for problematic sites
for odour control issues in the
sanitary system. Additive
systems and/or air scrubbers
may be used to respond to
issues.
There is a potential for future high
temperatures to lead to increased
corrosion in the sanitary system, which
could lead to more odour events.
Preventative maintenance and asset
management practices can respond to
corrosion, and there are odour
management practices that the Town
may consider applying to respond to
odour events as needed. Wastewater
additives and air scrubbers may be used
at concentrated point sources.
15 Medium 2-5 year $$ Operational
Services
$:<$10,000
$$: $10,000-$100,000
$$$: $100,000-$1M
$$$$: $1M+
Page 19 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Like linear engineered assets, some water and sanitary infrastructure is located within
the Regional and 100-year floodplain areas and may be at risk of flood-related damage.
See Figure 7 and Appendix A for an overview of exposed areas in the sanitary network.
More detailed information on creek flooding is available in the Town of Aurora’s
Tannery Creek Flood Study (Aquafor Beech Ltd., 2019). Precipitation associated with
future climate conditions has not been modeled, so at-risk assets are likely to include
more than what is shown on the map below and in the recent flood study.
Figure 6: Map of Sanitary infrastructure located in floodplain areas.
Page 20 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
6.3 Parks and Natural Heritage System
Most risks associated with Parks and Natural Heritage are related to damaged landscaping from increasing temperatures
and severe weather events. Increasing temperatures may also impact the operation of recreation facilities like ice rinks,
requiring more maintenance and increasing operating costs. Actions to adapt parks and natural heritage assets to climate
change focus on operations and maintenance changes and exploring solutions to improve water use and storage for
landscaping needs (Table 11).
Table 11: Adaptation Actions for Parks and Natural Heritage System
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
P-1
Conduct a study to investigate
rainwater capture and storage
needs and solutions for
irrigation and drainage
improvements for sports fields,
parks, and municipal facilities.
Sports fields become unusable during
extended periods of hot, dry weather, and after
periods of heavy rain. Capturing and storing
rainwater during rainy periods can make more
water available for irrigation during drought
conditions. Improvements to water storage
and irrigation infrastructure should be
considered in a study alongside field drainage
improvements to minimize interruptions to
field usage.
25 Long 1-3 years $$
Recreation
Services,
Facilities
Management
P-2
Plan for low maintenance
landscaping with hardy species
adapted to future climate
conditions.
As temperatures warm, choosing native plants
for landscaping can improve local ecosystem
health and make landscaping more resilient to
climate change. Planted species may need to
change over time as climate conditions shift.
Consider future climate projections when
planning new landscaping works and
consider opportunities for increasing
urban biodiversity.
15 Long >10 years
(ongoing) $
Environment,
Operational
Services
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Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
P-3 Plan for changes to ice rink
management in warmer winters.
Warmer winters and increased variability in
snowpack may strain the Town’s ability to
provide consistent outdoor ice-skating rinks
to the public. If or when skating rinks become
difficult to maintain with natural conditions of
snow and cold temperatures, consider
alternative methods of ice generation, or
reduce the level of service related to public
outdoor skating facilities.
15 Medium
to Long 1-3 years $$
Community
Services -
Recreation
Services,
Operational
Services
P-4
Adopt maintenance procedures
to proactively identify hazardous
trees and undertake
preventative maintenance
before damage occurs during
extreme events.
Conduct regular inspections of parks and
natural heritage assets to identify sick or
damaged trees that could become a hazard
during extreme weather events (wind, lightning,
storms). Undertaking preventative
maintenance on these trees will reduce risk
and reduce reactive
cleanup costs.
12 Short 1-3 years $ Operational
Services
P-5
Adopt maintenance
procedures to inspect parks
following extreme weather
events to identify damaged
landscaping and amenities to
prioritize repairs and
minimize service
disruptions.
Conduct damage inspections following
extreme events to address hazards caused by
debris or damage to trees that may require
repair (i.e., trees and plants contributing to soil
stability).
12 Short
1-3 years
(Policy
change)
$ Operational
Services
Page 22 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Range Lead
P-6
Perform a study to define the
value, climate risks, and
opportunities associated with
natural capital assets (i.e. green
infrastructure) in the Town.
Understanding the value of the Town’s green
infrastructure is important to incorporate these
assets into the AMP. The Town should update
the 2013 study on the value of natural capital
assets with information on the location, form,
and value of its green infrastructure to be
incorporated into the AMP. The study should
also apply climate science and risk findings
from this work to assess the potential climate
risks and opportunities associated with
ongoing management and protection of green
infrastructure in Aurora.
- Short 1-2 years $$
Engineering,
Planning,
Recreational
Services
$:<$10,000
$$: $10,000-$100,000
$$$: $100,000-$1M
$$$$: $1M+
Page 23 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Green infrastructure is defined in the Provincial Policy Statement as “natural or human-
made elements that provide ecological and hydrological functions and processes and
includes natural heritage features and systems, parklands, stormwater management
systems, street trees, urban forests, natural channels, permeable surfaces, and green
roofs”. These assets can exist on both public and private land but provide communities
with a variety of natural services that complement the services provided by built
infrastructure like roads and storm sewers. The most common infrastructure function
provided by green infrastructure is stormwater management as soils and vegetation
can absorb and slow rainwater runoff from nearby roads and buildings. Beyond helping
to manage stormwater runoff and flooding, green infrastructure can reduce risks related
to extreme heat and the urban heat island effect as trees and vegetation provide
shading and evaporative cooling that can significantly reduce local air temperatures.
Trees and other vegetation can moderate temperatures in both the summer and winter,
lowering building energy demand for nearby buildings or buildings with green roofs. In
this way, the passive services provided by green infrastructure go beyond improving
community resilience and can help reduce GHG emissions associated with heating and
cooling as well as emissions associated with the manufacturing and construction of
other infrastructure like piped storm sewers. Further, this type of living infrastructure
absorbs atmospheric carbon dioxide, storing it in soils and plant biomass.
The dual benefits for climate change adaptation and mitigation provided by green
infrastructure make these assets incredibly valuable to the Town’s overall approach to
climate action, while also advancing other community priorities like recreation, health,
and livability. Additionally, as green infrastructure assets are living systems, they do not
depreciate in value like other built infrastructure that degrades over time. Instead, green
infrastructure can gain value and function more effectively as plant communities
mature. This means that these assets need to be managed differently than traditional
built infrastructure with an emphasis on maintaining and preserving natural and green
spaces in a healthy state, particularly in key areas like riparian buffers and low-lying
areas that will receive the greatest benefits for avoided flood damage.
Incorporating municipally owned green infrastructure into asset management planning
is a provincial requirement under O.Reg. 588/17, effective July 2025 should the assets
meet the capitalization threshold for financial reporting. It is recommended that the
Town take a holistic approach to understand the value of green infrastructure present in
the community and how it could be managed and expanded to provide the maximum
benefits to the community. For natural assets, the Town should consider funding
protection and restoration initiatives rather than the construction and rehabilitation
work that is needed for built infrastructure. This is collaborative work that should be
conducted with the input from the LSRCA, The Regional Municipality of York, and other
local stakeholders as required.
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Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
6.4 Facilities
The highest rated moderate risks for facilities are related to increases in extreme summer temperatures, which may
exceed building cooling capacities. Risks are also present for damage related to heavy precipitation and severe weather
events. Adaptation actions for facilities focus on incorporating future climate projections into future cooling system
upgrades and improving operation and maintenance procedures to identify and correct weather-related damage to
facilities before major repairs are required (Table 12).
Table 12: Adaptation Actions for Facilities
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Rang
e
Lead
F-1
Monitor cooling
demand at facilities to
identify where
exceeding maximum
cooling capacities is
possible with high
summer temperatures.
Upgrade HVAC
systems to meet
future cooling
demands, prioritize
key facilities that could
be used as cooling
centers.
Both extreme and average summer
temperatures are expected to
increase in the future putting strain
on cooling systems and potentially
exceeding system capacity during
extreme events making it difficult to
maintain comfortable indoor air
temperatures. Identifying which
systems are most likely to have
capacity challenges with future
temperature will help to prioritize
upgrades at the time of asset
renewal or sooner if necessary.
Facilities that are used as cooling
centers, or that vulnerable
populations rely on (e.g., Aurora
Family Leisure Complex, Aurora
Public Library) should be prioritized
to maintain comfortable
temperatures in extreme heat.
25 Short 5 years) Cost
$$$
Community
Services -
Facilities
Management
Page 25 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Rang
e
Lead
F-2
Consider both current
and future cooling
demands with
increased
temperatures during
the planning and
design of HVAC and
electrical systems.
Where cooling
systems are being
replaced, assess and
upgrade the electrical
system accordingly.
Electrical systems are designed
based on maximum cooling loads. If
increased temperatures exceed the
capacity for cooling at certain
facilities, upgrades to both the
cooling system and electrical system
may be required. An engineering
assessment would be required to
determine capacity needs and plan
for future climate conditions.
20 Short 5 years $$$ Facilities
Management
F-3
Provide access to
backup power at all
facilities critical to
Town operations to
maintain essential
operations during
power outages.
Prioritize low-carbon
sources of backup
power where possible.
Although difficult to predict, lightning
strikes and storms may become
more frequent in the future. Along
with wind and heat events, critical
buildings should be prepared for
power outages in the future. This is
particularly important for facilities that
are designated for use as emergency
shelters.
20 Short 1-3 years $$$
Community
Services –
Facilities
Management
F-4
Install lightning
protection systems on
tall or isolated
buildings (such as
Town Hall, the Aurora
Community Centre),
and those which are
deemed critical for
Town operations.
Although difficult to predict, lightning
strikes may become more frequent in
the future. This could damage
electrical systems in buildings, and
potentially cause power outages.
Critical buildings should be prepared
for extended power outages in the
future. This is particularly important
for facilities that are designated for
use as emergency shelters.
16 Medium 1-3 years $$
Community
Services –
Facilities
Management
Page 26 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Rang
e
Lead
F-5
Continue to inspect
and maintain roof
systems, paying
particular attention to
domed roofs at the
Sports Dome and the
JOC regularly and after
extreme wind events.
Proactively
repair signs of
material distress to
avoid roof failure.
The Aurora Sports Dome and JOC
bubble roofs were previously
damaged in high wind events.
Although these have since been
repaired, domed fabric roofs remain
more vulnerable to extreme wind
than fixed building roof enclosures.
As extreme wind events may
increase in the future, continue to
inspect and maintain roof systems,
paying particular attention to domed
roofs at the Sports Dome and JOC
regularly and after extreme wind
events to proactively repair signs of
material distress.
18 Short Ongoing $
Community
Services –
Facilities
Management
F-6
Monitor air quality for
key municipal facilities
(e.g., those with many
staff or public users)
and consider
upgrading HVAC
systems to
accommodate higher-
rated filters such as
MERV 13 equivalent
filters as well as
including space for the
addition of MERV 8
pre-filters in case of a
poor air quality event.
Wildfires in Canada are projected to
increase in the future, and smoke
from either nearby or distant fires
can impact air quality in Aurora. This
may reduce the indoor air quality in
buildings and increase the frequency
of filter replacement. Filter sizing
increases must remain within
manufacturer recommendations to
not impact equipment efficiency.
16 Medium 1 year $$
Community
Services –
Facilities
Management
Page 27 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Rang
e
Lead
F-7
Continue to inspect
parking lots and
hardscaping regularly
to identify heat-related
damage and
implement small
repairs where feasible
to avoid further
degradation in hot
weather. Review the
granular base
structure and asphalt
mix design during the
next replacement
cycle.
Extreme heat can lead to increased
deterioration and wear on
hardscaping.
16 Medium Ongoing $ - $$
Operational
Services,
Engineering
F-8
Monitor internal
drainage systems in
facilities and prepare
for a projected
increase in
precipitation events.
Where facilities rely
on sump pumps to
manage inflow and
roof drainage, review
precipitation load
calculations based on
future climate
projections, and
incorporate the
increased load when
sump units are to be
upgraded or replaced.
A projected increase in extreme
precipitation may lead to an increase
in below-ground flooding events at
residences and at Town facilities. It
is best practice to store electrical and
mechanical equipment above grade
where possible and ensure that where
sump pumps are used, these are
designed to manage current and future
projected extreme precipitation and
flooding events.
15 Short 1-3 years $$
Community
Services –
Facilities
Management
Page 28 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Action
ID Action Description / Justification Risk
Rating Priority Duration
(Years)
Cost
Rang
e
Lead
F-9
Continue inspections
of facilities structures
regularly and after
extreme wind events.
Proactively repair
damages as needed.
An engineering study
would be required to
assess whether
projected wind loads
may surpass designed
structural capacities at
facilities, which could
be initiated if regular
inspections identify
potential wind-related
issues.
There is a potential for wind loads to
increase in the future, which may
exceed the designed capacities of
the facility structures. Building
structures are inspected regularly
(every 5 years) to monitor for
deterioration and damages. In
addition to this existing practice,
inspections of facilities after extreme
wind events could identify any areas
requiring further inspection.
15 Short Ongoing $-$$
Community
Services –
Facilities
Management,
Engineering
$:<$10,000
$$: $10,000-$100,000
$$$: $100,000-$1M
$$$$: $1M+
Page 29 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
April 2022
Page 30 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
i
Quality Management
VERSION DATE DESCRIPTION
00 April 25, 2022 Draft Report for Review by Client
Page 31 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
ii
Signatures
Prepared by:
Lisa MacTavish, P.Eng. Date
Jay Maloney, MRM Date
Reviewed and approved by:
Elise Paré, P.Eng. Date
Page 32 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
iii
Prepared for:
Town of Aurora
Natalie Kehle, MSc, CEM, CRE Energy and Climate Change Analyst,
Engineering and Capital Delivery
Division
Sebastian Contarin, MCC Energy and Climate Change Analyst,
Engineering and Capital Delivery
Division
Prepared by:
WSP Canada Inc. (WSP)
Lisa MacTavish, M.Eng., P.Eng. Project Manager, Advisor, Climate Risk
and Resilience
Christina Schwantes, MEM Advisor, Climate Risk and Resilience
Jay Maloney, MRM Analyst, Climate Risk and Resilience
Alice Berry Climate Change Analyst
Yann Chavaillaz, Ph.D. Senior Advisor, Climate Risk and
Resilience
Elise Paré, P.Eng. Project Director, National Lead, Climate
Risk and Resilience
Jenny Enoae, M.Sc. Subject Matter Expert – Parks
Danah Ashcroft, G.I.S.(PG), C.E.T. Subject Matter Expert – Asset
Management
Martin Gordon, P.Eng., CPA, CMA Subject Matter Expert – Asset
Management
Mike Nanos, E.I.T. Subject Matter Expert – Water
Daniel Déry, CEP Professional, Geospatial and Digital
Solutions
Page 33 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
iv
Land Acknowledgement
We begin this report by acknowledging that the Town of Aurora is on Indigenous land
that has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples from the beginning.
As settlers, we thank all the generations of people who have taken care of this land - for
thousands of years.
Long before today, there have been Indigenous peoples who have been the stewards of
this place.
In particular, we acknowledge this the town of Aurora is on the traditional territory of the
Wendat, the Haudenosaunee, and the Anishinaabe peoples. We also acknowledge that
Aurora resides within Treaty 13 (1805) and Williams Treaty (1923).
We recognize and deeply appreciate their historic connection to this place. We also
recognize the contributions of Métis, Inuit, and other Indigenous peoples have made,
both in shaping and strengthening this community in particular, and country as a whole.
As settlers, this recognition of the contributions and historic importance of Indigenous
peoples must also be clearly and overtly connected to our collective commitment to
make the promise and the challenge of Truth and Reconciliation real in our
communities, and in particular to bring justice for Murdered and Missing Indigenous
Women across our country.
Page 34 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
v
Disclaimer
WSP Canada Inc. (“WSP”) prepared this report solely for the use of the intended
recipient, in accordance with the professional services agreement between the parties.
The report is intended to be used in its entirety. No excerpts may be taken to be
representative of the findings in the assessment. The conclusions presented in this
report are based on work performed by trained, professional and technical staff, in
accordance with their reasonable interpretation of current and accepted engineering
and scientific practices at the time the work was performed.
The content and opinions contained in the present report are based on the observations
and/or information available to WSP at the time of preparation, using investigation
techniques and engineering analysis methods consistent with those ordinarily exercised
by WSP and other engineering/scientific practitioners working under similar conditions,
and subject to the same time, financial and physical constraints applicable to this
project.
WSP disclaims any obligation to update this report if, after the date of this report, any
conditions appear to differ significantly from those presented in this report; however,
WSP reserves the right to amend or supplement this report based on additional
information, documentation or evidence.
WSP makes no other representations whatsoever concerning the legal significance of
its findings.
The intended recipient is solely responsible for the disclosure of any information
contained in this report. If a third party makes use of, relies on, or makes decisions in
accordance with this report, said third party is solely responsible for such use, reliance
or decisions. WSP does not accept responsibility for damages, if any, suffered by any
third party as a result of decisions made or actions taken by said third party based on
this report.
WSP has provided services to the intended recipient in accordance with the
professional services agreement between the parties and in a manner consistent with
that degree of care, skill and diligence normally provided by members of the same
profession performing the same or comparable services in respect of projects of a
similar nature in similar circumstances. It is understood and agreed by WSP and the
recipient of this report that WSP provides no warranty, express or implied, of any kind.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, it is agreed and understood by WSP and
the recipient of this report that WSP makes no representation or warranty whatsoever
as to the sufficiency of its scope of work for the purpose sought by the recipient of this
report.
In preparing this report, WSP has relied in good faith on information provided by others,
as noted in the report. WSP has reasonably assumed that the information provided is
Page 35 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
vi
correct and WSP is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of such
information.
We accept no responsibility for any decisions made or actions taken as a result of this
report unless we are specifically advised of and participate in such action, in which case
our responsibility will be as agreed to at that time.
The original of this digital file will be kept by WSP for a period of not less than 10 years.
As the digital file transmitted to the intended recipient is no longer under the control of
WSP, its integrity cannot be assured. As such, WSP does not guarantee any
modifications made to this digital file subsequent to its transmission to the intended
recipient. These limitations statements are considered an integral part of this report.
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Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
vii
Glossary of Terms
Annual cooling degree-days (CDD): Measure of how hot the temperature is or will be
during a given year. This is used as a measure of energy use required to cool and
maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Annual cooling degree days are equal to the
number of degrees Celsius a given day’s mean temperature is above 18°C,
compounded throughout the year. For example, if the daily mean temperature is 21°C,
the CDD value for that day is equal to 3. If the daily mean temperature is below 18 °C,
the CDD value for that day is set to zero. The sum of each day’s CDD is added together
to create an annual total. There are no units associated with CDDs.
Climate: The weather conditions prevailing in an area in general over a long period,
typically a minimum of 30 years. Climate differs from weather in that weather reflects
short term (minute, hourly, daily, weekly, seasonal) conditions of the atmosphere and
does not denote the long-term trends.
Climate change: Any significant long-term change in the expected patterns of average
weather of a region over a significant period of time, usually averaged to a minimum of
30 years.
Exposure: Presence of people, livelihoods, assets, services, resources or infrastructure
in place in a specific region that could be adversely affected by climate change.
Freeze-thaw cycle: Number of days where the maximum temperature is above 0°C
and the minimum temperature is below 0°C. Under these conditions, it is likely that
some water at the surface was both liquid and solid at some point during the day.
Heatwave: Extended period of extreme heat. A heat wave is defined here as a period of
three or more consecutive days with maximum temperatures above 30°C.
High summer temperature (2.5% July temperature): The highest temperature at or
above which only a certain small percentage of the hourly outside air temperatures in
July occur. There are two measurements commonly used: wet bulb temperature and dry
bulb temperature. Wet bulb temperature is the lowest temperature to which air can be
cooled by evaporation of water into the air at a constant pressure. It is measured by
wrapping a wet wick around the bulb of a thermostat and is impacted by the relative
humidity of the air. Dry bulb temperature is the temperature of air measured by a
thermometer that is freely exposed to the air but shielded from radiation and moisture.
The dry bulb temperature is indicative of the air temperature without the effect of
moisture.
Intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) curve: IDF curve is a representation of the
probability that a given rainfall intensity or quantity occurs over a sub-daily time period.
Low winter temperature (2.5% January temperature): The January design
temperature is defined as the lowest temperature at or below which only a certain small
percentage of the hourly outside air temperatures in January occur.
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Climate Change Adaptation Plan
viii
Mitigation: Reducing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by reducing
the sources of greenhouse gases or increasing the sinks which accumulate and store
the gases.
Resilience: The ability of a system to absorb disturbances while maintaining the same
basic structure and ways of functioning.
Risk: The possibility of injury, loss or negative environmental impact created by a
hazard. The significance of risk is a function of the probability of an unwanted incident
and the severity of its consequence.
Risk rating: The assessment of the level of risk through a pre-defined scale.
Vulnerability: The degree to which a system is susceptible to, or unable to cope with,
adverse effects of changing climate, including climate variability and extremes.
Vulnerability is a function of the character, magnitude, and rate of climate variation to
which a system is exposed, its sensitivity, and its adaptive capacity.
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Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
ix
Executive Summary
A changing climate has resulted in increases in temperature and extreme weather
events in southern Ontario. Physical impacts from heat waves, strong winds, and
flooding have been experienced in the Town of Aurora and are projected to occur more
frequently and with greater intensity. As climate change continues to shift weather
patterns and norms, it is important to understand how these changes may manifest in
the Town of Aurora, and what the impact to the community may be.
Infrastructure is fundamental to community wellbeing and supports the services a
municipality provides to residents. Much of the Town’s infrastructure is exposed to the
environment and therefore could be impacted by the changing weather patterns
associated with climate change. With significant investments in infrastructure and
services that the community depends on, it is important that the Town protects public
infrastructure from avoidable damages related to climate change. Understanding
potential climate risks to Town infrastructure and how to adapt is important for the
sustainability of public assets and long-term financial management.
The Town commissioned WSP to prepare a climate change adaptation plan to guide
asset management planning and better prepare for the impacts of climate change. The
adaptation plan is based on a climate risk assessment of Town-owned infrastructure as
defined in the Town of Aurora 2018 Asset Management Plan. The assets, and therefore
the assessment, was divided into four infrastructure categories: linear engineering,
water infrastructure, parks and natural heritage, and facilities.
To determine the potential impacts of climate change on the infrastructure in the Town,
localized climate projections were analyzed. WSP identified climate trends that are
expected to materialize in the near term, between 2021 and 2050. The most likely trend
to occur is an increase in temperatures, and this is expected to impact several climate
and weather parameters:
x Mean summer maximum temperatures are projected to increase by 9%,
x The number of heat waves are projected to increase from 1.2 to 3.6 per year,
x Cooling Degree Days (used for cooling system design and planning) are
projected to almost double (increase of 86%),
x Winter temperatures are expected to increase, leading to a reduction in extreme
cold risks, snow depth, and annual freeze-thaw cycles (although freeze-thaw
cycles concentrated in winter months may still be damaging to infrastructure).
Otherwise, precipitation, wind, and low air quality events associated with wildfires are
also projected to increase in the future. Interactions between each asset category and
these climate trends were evaluated to determine where vulnerabilities may exist.
In this assessment, risk is defined as the possibility of injury, loss, or negative
environmental impact created by a hazard. Risk is a product of the probability that a
Page 39 of 202
Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
x
climate hazard may impact infrastructure and the severity (or benefit) of this impact. The
risk assessment is completed by answering the three following questions:
1. Which climate / infrastructure interaction events could occur in the lifespan of the
infrastructure?
2. How likely is it that these events will occur?
3. If the event happens, what are the consequences (or benefits)?
The risk assessment identified 185 relevant climate-infrastructure interactions using
available data, scientific literature, Town staff input, and the professional judgment of
WSP’s project team. Whereas the majority of the risks were evaluated to have a low or
medium risk rating, it is notable that no high risks were found. All risk results were
reviewed by WSP and Town staff, and based on the relative risk scoring,
recommendations for adaptation actions were developed. These actions are intended to
guide further climate change adaptation planning for Town infrastructure with specific
actions identified for the short, medium, and long term.
Short term priorities for adaptation actions are summarized as follows:
x For Linear Engineering Assets, actions are focused on improving the flood
resilience of the stormwater system through proactive maintenance, evaluating
future projected precipitation impacts to the system, and applying lot-level runoff
controls. Other specific short-term actions include preparing road signage and
traffic signals for increased power outages and maintaining stormwater
management ponds in dry summer conditions.
x For Water Infrastructure, actions relating to flood management are important in
reducing risks to the sanitary system. Otherwise, continued emergency response
and increased surveillance planning are recommended to help reduce the worst
impacts of flood risks to water infrastructure if issues can be detected and
repaired quickly.
x For Parks and Natural Heritage, actions focus on preventing and repairing
debris hazards through proactive landscape maintenance.
x At Facilities, actions relate to ensuring sufficient cooling capacity in critical
buildings as temperatures and heatwaves increase, ensuring backup power is in
place at facilities as needed, inspecting domed (bubble) roofs proactively and
after high wind events, and considering flood preparedness and drainage
systems of facilities.
Medium and long-term priorities for adaptation actions focus on three key themes:
x Incorporating climate change projections into asset management planning to
ensure that infrastructure designs, operations and maintenance procedures are
prepared for future conditions,
x Managing risks through updated operation and maintenance procedures based
on identified risks, and
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Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
xi
x Planning for and implementing resilience interventions upon asset renewal,
during major retrofits, or as needed when new risks are identified.
This risk assessment also highlighted the importance of continuing ongoing activities
such as emergency response planning, flood risk studies, and maintenance activities to
manage some of the highest identified risks. Another important recommendation is to
integrate climate risks and adaptation into the Town of Aurora asset management
planning to inform decision-making and reduce climate change risks. It is also important
to assess the Town’s desired levels of service along with future climate projections. In
some cases, this will mean designing infrastructure or building retrofits to exceed
current codes and standards which are based on historical climate conditions.
Proactively considering the future climate conditions and levels of service an asset will
need to support, will result in right-sizing infrastructure and investments to build
resilience into operations.
With proactive adaptation to climate change, the Town of Aurora can continue to
provide high quality services to the community into the future. Every dollar invested
today in resilience saves six in future costs (IBC, 2019), so the benefits of acting on
climate adaptation now are clear. As the Town continues on its climate mitigation and
adaptation journey, this risk assessment should be reviewed and updated alongside
future asset management planning at regular intervals.
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Town of Aurora
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
xii
Table of Contents
1 Introduction ........................................................................................... 1
1.1 Background ........................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Scope of Project ................................................................................................. 2
2 Approach .............................................................................................. 2
2.1 Overview of the PIEVC process ......................................................................... 2
3 Project Definition ................................................................................... 4
3.1 Policy and Context ............................................................................................. 4
3.2 Infrastructure Description ................................................................................... 5
Linear Engineering Assets .................................................................................................. 5
Water Infrastructure ............................................................................................................ 5
Parks and Natural Heritage System ................................................................................... 6
Facilities ............................................................................................................................. 7
4 Data Gathering ..................................................................................... 9
4.1 Document Review .............................................................................................. 9
4.2 Stakeholder Engagement ................................................................................... 9
Town Staff Interviews ......................................................................................................... 9
4.3 Future Climate Analysis ..................................................................................... 9
5 Risk Assessment ................................................................................ 12
5.1 Risk Workshop ................................................................................................. 13
5.2 Risk Assessment Results ................................................................................. 13
Linear Engineered Assets .................................................................................................13
Water Infrastructure Assets ...............................................................................................16
Parks and Natural Heritage System ..................................................................................18
Facilities ............................................................................................................................19
5.3 Discussion of Risks .......................................................................................... 22
6 Recommendations .............................................................................. 23
6.1 Linear Engineered Assets ................................................................................ 24
6.2 Water Infrastructure Assets .............................................................................. 31
6.3 Parks and Natural Heritage System ................................................................. 37
6.4 Facilities ........................................................................................................... 40
7 Conclusions and Future Considerations ............................................. 46
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Reference Materials .................................................................................. 48
List of Tables
Table 1: Policy documents guiding climate change action in Aurora ............................ 4
Table 2: PIEVC Risk Categories and Responses ....................................................... 12
Table 3: Low medium risks of the road network infrastructure .................................... 14
Table 4: Low medium risks of the stormwater network infrastructure ......................... 15
Table 5: Low medium risks of the water network infrastructure .................................. 16
Table 6: Low medium risks of the sanitary network infrastructure .............................. 17
Table 7: Low medium risks of the park and natural heritage system infrastructure .... 18
Table 8: Low medium risks of the facilities infrastructure ............................................ 20
Table 9: Adaptation actions for Linear Engineered Assets (Roads and Stormwater) . 24
Table 10: Adaptation Actions for Water Infrastructure Assets (Water and Sanitary
Networks) 31
Table 11: Adaptation Actions for Parks and Natural Heritage System....................... 37
Table 12: Adaptation Actions for Facilities ................................................................. 40
List of Figures
Figure 1: Map of Roads and the Stormwater Network ................................................ 5
Figure 2: Map of Water and Sanitary Networks .......................................................... 6
Figure 3: Map of Parks and Natural Heritage System ................................................. 6
Figure 4: Map of Town Facilities ................................................................................. 8
Figure 5: Map of Stormwater infrastructure located in floodplain areas .................... 30
Figure 6: Map of Sanitary infrastructure located in floodplain areas ......................... 36
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Appendices
A. Mapping
B. PIEVC Worksheets
B-1. Worksheet 1
B-2. Worksheet 2
B-3. Worksheet 3
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1 Introduction
1.1 Background
Extreme climate events have increased in frequency and severity in southern Ontario in
the recent past. Heatwaves have caused pavement to buckle resulting in the closure of
major highways, and severe storms have overwhelmed stormwater systems, downed
trees and power lines impacting people, businesses, and property. In the Town of
Aurora (Town), heat waves have affected people and buildings, strong winds have
damaged bubble roofs, and flooding has affected stream integrity, parking lots and
roads. As climate change continues to shift weather patterns and norms, it is important
to understand how these changes may manifest in the Town of Aurora, and what the
impact to the community may be.
Infrastructure is fundamental to community wellbeing and supports the services a
municipality provides to its residents. The Town owns and operates many types of
infrastructure from roads to parks and recreation facilities. Much of the Town’s
infrastructure is exposed to the environment and therefore could be impacted by the
changing weather patterns associated with climate change. Understanding how
infrastructure will be affected by a changing climate is an important step for the Town to
improve its service delivery and manage risks to its assets.
The Town has taken steps on climate action to reduce energy emissions through the
2021 Community Energy Plan. In terms of planning for resilience, the Town has
conducted flood studies to better understand and manage flood risk in the Tannery
Creek watershed (Aquafor Beech Ltd., 2019). The Town’s asset management planning
helps to ensure infrastructure is operated, maintained, and designed for longevity;
however, it does not consider the impacts that climate change may have on
infrastructure. The Town is planning to invest $123 million in its infrastructure between
2018 and 2028 (Asset Management Plan, 2018) and has a responsibility to protect this
public investment from avoidable damages related to climate change. Climate change
adaptation and mitigation interventions have the potential to be low cost while providing
significant future benefits. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, every dollar
invested today in resilience saves six in future costs (IBC, 2019). It is often much more
challenging and expensive to implement reactive measures when damage from extreme
events has already occurred and retroactive repairs or refurbishments are required.
To that end, the Town engaged WSP to develop a Climate Change Adaptation Plan for
the infrastructure assets within the Town’s municipal asset inventory. The adaptation
plan presented in this report is intended to guide future actions to reduce risks
associated with climate change and public infrastructure. In addition to managing
climate impacts to Town infrastructure, the plan is intended to help the Town better
integrate climate resilience into design, operations, planning, and decision-making with
respect to asset management.
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The adaptation plan builds upon work done locally by York Region and the Lake Simcoe
Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) and will help Aurora align with provincial and
regional direction on climate change including the Ontario Regulation 588/17, and the
Town’s Asset Management Policy and climate change initiatives.
1.2 Scope of Project
The Adaptation Plan is informed by a climate change risk and vulnerability assessment
completed using the Public Infrastructure Engineering Vulnerability Committee (PIEVC)
protocol. The PIEVC protocol is a nationally recognized tool for assessing infrastructure
risk due to climate change. The PIEVC protocol and therefore this Adaptation Plan
maintain a specific focus on infrastructure and operation of Town assets. It does not
consider the full extent of social and environmental impacts that may occur in Aurora as
a result of climate change. This assessment consisted of a desktop study with virtual
engagement with Town staff and did not include a site visit. Assumptions and
infrastructure condition descriptions are based on the Town of Aurora Asset
Management Plan and Town staff input, and the results are intended to inform future
asset management planning.
2 Approach
2.1 Overview of the PIEVC process
The PIEVC protocol is a tool that supports the systematic assessment of the risks
posed by extreme weather and future climate to public infrastructure. It is a five-step
process (Figure 5) including project definition, data collection, risk assessment,
engineering analysis (if needed), and conclusions and recommendations. This risk
assessment process is similar to other methodologies for completing climate change
risk assessments and was chosen for this project as it was developed specifically to
assess infrastructure vulnerability.
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The key actions of the risk
assessment approach are to:
ņ Collect and review
background information on
infrastructure and asset
management practices,
ņ Analyze historical climate
information and future climate
hazard projection data,
ņ Estimate the likelihood and
severity of climate impacts to
the infrastructure to evaluate
and prioritize potential risks,
ņ Develop recommendations on
adaptation pathways for
specific assets
(e.g., design adjustments,
changes to operations, or
maintenance).
WSP’s team of resilience
specialists and engineering discipline Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) completed Steps
1, 2, 3, and 5 with input from Town staff along the way. Step 4, Engineering Analysis, is
only implemented where there is insufficient information to evaluate risks and complete
the study. This was not the case for this project, so Step 4 was not performed. Three
technical worksheets (found in Appendix B) are completed throughout the process to
gather and organize information, confirm assumptions, and guide the process of the
assessment. The results of the risk assessment form the basis of the adaptation plan
presented in this report. The following sections summarize the risk assessment process,
results, and recommended adaptation actions. For more details on the PIEVC inputs
and process, refer to the worksheets in Appendix B.
Figure 1: Steps in the PIEVC protocol FFFFFigurereeeeeeeeereereeeeeerereeeeeereeeereeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeereeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee 1111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::StSStStSSSStSSSSSttttStStSSStStStttSSSSSSttStttttStSSSStStSSSSSStttStSttttSSSSSSSSSttttttStSStSSSSSSttSttttttSStStSSSSStStttttttStSSSSSttttttStSSSSStSSSSSStttSSSSSSSSSSStttSSSSSSSSStSSSSSSttttSttttSSSSSSSSSStSSStttttttSSSSSSSSSSSSttttttSSSSSSSSSSSSStttttttttSSSSSSStSSSSStttttSSSSSSSSSSSStttttStSSSSSSSSSSSSSttttSSSSSSSSSSSSSSttttttSSSSSSSSSSttttttSSSSSSSttttttttStSSSSSStttttStSSSStttStSteps innnnnn ttthe PIEVC protocol
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3 Project Definition
The first step in completing a PIEVC assessment is to clearly define the project scope
and boundaries, describe the infrastructure being assessed, and identify relevant
documents and information sources. Detailed information on this step can be found in
Worksheet 1 in Appendix B.
3.1 Policy and Context
This climate change adaptation plan aligns with policy directions on climate change
mitigation and adaptation established by the Town of Aurora, Regional Municipality of
York, and the Government of Ontario. A summary of key policy documents relevant to
this study is given in Table 1.
Table 1: Policy documents guiding climate change action in Aurora
POLICY DOCUMENT KEY STATEMENT(S)
A Place to Grow: Growth
Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe (Government of
Ontario, 2020a)
“Municipalities will assess infrastructure risks and
vulnerabilities, including those caused by the impacts of a
changing climate, and identify actions and investments to
address these challenges, which could be identified as part of
municipal asset management planning.”
Provincial Policy Statement
(Government of Ontario,
2020b)
“[I]nfrastructure and public service facilities shall be provided
in an efficient manner that prepares for the impacts of a
changing climate while accommodating projected needs.”
Asset Management Planning
for Municipal Infrastructure
(O. Reg. 588/17)
“5. The municipality’s commitment to consider, as part of its
asset management planning,
i. the actions that may be required to address the
vulnerabilities that may be caused by climate change to the
municipality’s infrastructure assets, in respect of such matters
as,
A. operations, such as increased maintenance schedules,
B. levels of service, and
C. lifecycle management”
Draft York Region Official
Plan (Regional Municipality
of York, 2021)
“Climate change and adaptation goals cannot be achieved by
the Region alone and will require partnership and efforts from
all levels of government, conservation authorities, community
stakeholders, businesses, the development industry, and the
public”
Strategic Asset
Management Policy (Town
of Aurora, no date)
In alignment with the Town’s strategic direction, “prepar[ing] a
Climate Change Adaptation Plan” is a key priority.
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3.2 Infrastructure Description
The public infrastructure within the municipal boundary of Aurora is owned and operated
by the Town, York Region, and the Province of Ontario. The risk assessment and the
associated adaptation plan consider the assets owned and operated by the Town as
defined in the 2018 Asset Management Plan (AMP). This infrastructure is divided into
four categories including Linear Engineering Assets, Water Infrastructure Assets, Parks
and Natural Heritage Systems, and Facilities. Provincial, regional, and privately owned
assets within the Town are excluded from this assessment.
The risk assessment is completed at the asset sub-class level, aggregated according to
the Asset Management Plan classification (Town of Aurora, 2018). Data from the AMP
was used to determine the average condition and age of each infrastructure type, which
was then considered in the risk assessment. The time period selected for this
assessment is for the near future, between 2021-2050, since most of the infrastructure
assessed will reach end of life within this time (AMP 2018).
The sections below provide a list of the asset sub-categories considered in this
assessment and an overview of where these assets are located in the Town. Detailed
maps with scales and legends are located in Appendix A.
Linear Engineering Assets
The Town’s linear engineering assets include stormwater management and road
systems. The asset sub-categories include the following:
Road Network
x Pavement and curbs
x Pedestrian paths
x Road luminaires
x Signage
x Traffic signals
Stormwater Network
x Sewers
x Maintenance chambers
x Catch basins
x Laterals
x Oil grit separators
x Cleanouts
x Headwalls
x Stormwater management ponds
x Equalization tanks
x Bridges and culverts
Since linear infrastructure is necessary for mobility and flood management, these are
located throughout all developed areas of the Town. Although not all assets had spatial
data points available, the map below in Figure 1 provides an overview of the distribution
of linear engineering assets across the Town.
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Figure 2: Map of Roads and the Stormwater Network
Water Infrastructure
The Town’s water infrastructure includes all components of the water and sanitary
networks. The asset sub-categories include the following:
Water Network
x Water mains
x Water valves
x Underground enclosures
x Fire hydrants
x Service connections
x Bulk water filling stations
x Booster stations
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Sanitary Network
x Sewers
x Maintenance chambers
x Laterals
x Equalization tanks
x Pumping stations
Water and sanitary networks service all developed areas of the Town. Figure 2 provides
an overview of sanitary assets distributed throughout Aurora.
Figure 3: Map of Water and Sanitary Networks
Parks and Natural Heritage System
Parks and natural heritage assets throughout the town include athletic fields, trail
networks, areas of open and undeveloped space, as well as supporting infrastructure
including lighting, fencing, and signage (AMP 2018). The following asset sub-categories
are used for the risk assessment:
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x Open space and parkland
x Land associated with municipal facilities
x Land maintained for environmental purposes
x Off-road trails
x Park structures
Parks and natural heritage features are geographically distributed throughout the
community. Figure 3 provides an overview of the location of parks features included in
the Town of Aurora. Not shown on the map are lands associated with municipal facilities
and natural forested areas throughout the town.
Figure 4: Map of Parks and Natural Heritage System
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Facilities
The Town owns and operates 19 facilities that serve the community including
government buildings such as the Town Hall, protection services including two fire halls,
recreation and culture facilities including the Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex, and
transportation services buildings (AMP 2018). These facilities may be considered single
assets, but they consist of several inter-connected infrastructure systems. Therefore,
common building components across all facilities have been considered in the risk
assessment rather than assessing each facility independently. A list of building
component infrastructure considered for all facilities is as follows:
x Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems
x Building envelope systems
x Building structural systems
x Electrical systems
x Plumbing systems
x Hardscaping
Facilities owned and operated by the Town are predominantly located in the central
core of the community with some outlying facilities. Figure 4 provides an overview of the
facilities included in the risk assessment for which spatial data was available.
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Figure 5: Map of Town Facilities
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4 Data Gathering
The purpose of Step 2 of the PIEVC process is for gathering further information on the
infrastructure being assessed and the future climate conditions that may impact it. To
accomplish this, WSP conducted a document review, stakeholder engagement, and an
analysis of publicly available climate change projection data, as described in the
sections below.
4.1 Document Review
Background documents relevant to infrastructure and asset management were provided
to WSP by the Town. Key resources informing this assessment include the 2018 Asset
Management Plan, an Asset Database Listing (2018), and a draft Levels of Service
Framework for asset management. The 2018 Asset Management Plan provides
information on infrastructure age, useful life, and maintenance schedules for each asset
type. The 10-Year Capital Investment Plan includes plans for continued growth and
development, however, due to the scale of this assessment, only existing infrastructure
was assessed. Other reports and databases were reviewed as needed, and information
gaps were filled in through stakeholder engagement. WSP had sufficient data to
conduct the risk assessment of the Town’s infrastructure.
4.2 Stakeholder Engagement
At the beginning of this project, WSP supported the Town in forming a Resilient
Infrastructure Working Group including Town stakeholders from areas such as Climate
Change Planning, Asset Management, Linear and Water Infrastructure Engineering,
Parks and Natural Heritage, Facilities, Emergency Response, Legal, and Finance.
Stakeholders in the Resilient Infrastructure Working Group were engaged at key
milestones throughout the project to provide commentary on interim results. The
engagement process was designed to consolidate practical knowledge from
stakeholders and to build institutional resilience through an improved understanding of
climate risks and climate-informed decision-making.
Town Staff Interviews
Town staff with knowledge of and experience related to the Town’s infrastructure
portfolio and asset management were interviewed to better understand the
infrastructure systems. The purpose of these interviews was to validate information
identified in the background document review and provide further insight into potential
concerns around climate change and infrastructure in Aurora. Topics of discussion
included critical infrastructure, previous failures, the historical impact of climate events,
risk and response protocols, and more.
4.3 Future Climate Analysis
Four major climate hazards and trends were evaluated as part of this study: increasing
and extreme temperatures, precipitation and flooding, changing winter conditions, and
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extreme weather and storms. Within these hazards and trends, WSP identified 13
important climate indicators (i.e., specific data points such as “number of days above 30
degrees Celsius”) and performed an analysis of future climate change projection data.
This analysis provides an understanding of how climate change is likely to impact
infrastructure in Aurora. A summary of notable climate trends in the short term (2021-
2050) is provided below. A more detailed description of climate indicators and future
climate projection data along with references for all data presented in this section are
provided in Worksheet 2 in Appendix B.
Higher average temperatures and extreme heat
Temperatures are projected to be higher on average year-round with more hot days in
the summer. Specifically:
ņ Mean summer maximum temperatures are projected to increase by 9%,
ņ The annual number of heatwaves is projected to increase from 1.2 to 3.6,
ņ Cooling Degree Days (used for cooling system design and planning) are projected to
almost double (increase of 86%),
ņ Winter temperatures are expected to increase, leading to a reduction in extreme cold
risks.
High summer temperatures may exceed the capacity of facilities to maintain safe and
comfortable indoor temperatures, which may compromise the ability to deliver cooling
shelters during extreme heat events. Heatwaves may render playing fields unusable
due to periods of extended dryness and high temperatures and can accelerate the
degradation of other exterior assets that are sensitive to temperature (e.g., pavement
expansion and buckling at high temperatures).
Increase in average precipitation, heavy precipitation, and flooding
More precipitation is expected to fall on an annual basis, particularly in spring, fall and
winter. Rainfall is projected to become more frequent and intense. More rain may fall on
a typical rainy day and during extreme short-duration high-intensity storm events.
Climate projections for Aurora show that:
ņ Annual precipitation is projected to increase by 6.3%,
ņ Extreme precipitation for the 1 in 100-year storm event is projected to increase by
17.5%.
Stormwater infrastructure has been designed to accommodate historical rainfall
amounts and may be overwhelmed by future increases in extreme precipitation events.
Exceeding stormwater system capacity may cause localized flooding, bank erosion, or
compromise the foundations and structural integrity of bridges. Similarly, extreme
precipitation may cause sanitary backups or wastewater leakage into the environment.
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Freeze-thaw cycles and snowpack
As temperatures warm, climate projections show the following changing winter
conditions:
ņ With warmer temperatures, freeze-thaw cycles are likely to decrease annually but
become more concentrated during the winter months,
ņ Winter freeze-thaw cycles are projected to increase by 17% from an average of 31
cycles to 36.5,
ņ The maximum annual snow depth is estimated to decrease by 5% to 7.5% per
decade.
Freeze-thaw patterns are projected to shift in frequency and timing, which can impact
winter operations and maintenance activities and affect how exposed assets age due to
expansion and contraction, and icing. Warmer winters are also expected to be
associated with decreases in snow depth, reducing the structural load on buildings.
Severe weather
Strong wind gusts and lightning impacts may increase as global temperatures continue
to rise. Climate projections for Aurora show that:
ņ The number of days with wind gusts greater than 100 km/h is expected to increase
by 30% from 5 to 6.5 days,
ņ The annual number of lightning strikes is expected to increase by 12% for every 1°C
in mean temperature increase.
Severe weather events can cause physical damage to infrastructure requiring
expansive repairs and disruptions to municipal service delivery. In the past, wind has
damaged two bubble-style roofing systems in Aurora. Lightning is a high consequence
impact that may interrupt and damage the power supply and electrical systems in
facilities.
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5 Risk Assessment
The PIEVC Protocol defines risk as the possibility of injury, loss or negative
environmental impact created by a hazard. Risk is a product of the probability of
occurrence of an impact and, given that it has happened, its consequences. The risk
assessment is then completed by answering the following questions:
1. Which climate / infrastructure interaction events could occur in the lifespan of the
infrastructure?
2. How likely are specified climate / infrastructure interactions to occur within the
lifespan of the infrastructure?
3. If the events do occur, what might the consequences be?
For this assessment, the probability that selected climate events occur in the future is
calculated by determining the likelihood that historic climate conditions may be
exceeded within a specified time period. This likelihood is rated from 0 to 7, 0 being the
least likely and 7 being the most likely. Further details on likelihood calculations
complete with climate projection data outputs are described in Worksheet 2 in Appendix
B.
The potential consequences of a climate-infrastructure interaction were evaluated
qualitatively by incorporating input from Town staff and engineering SMEs on the WSP
project team. The severity of potential consequences is rated on a scale from 0 to 7,
where 0 means no negative consequences and 7 means a significant failure. The
product of the probability and the severity scores results in a risk score between 0 and
49.
The following risk evaluation grid was applied in this assessment (Table 2):
Table 2: PIEVC Risk Categories and Responses
RISK RANGE THRESHOLD RESPONSE
< 12 Low risk No action necessary.
12 – 36 Low medium risk (12-25) Action and/or an engineering analysis may
be required. High medium risk (26-36)
> 36 High risk Action required.
= 7 Special Case
Requires special attention in risk
assessment to determine if action is
necessary.
ņ Low-risk interactions represent no immediate vulnerability associated with the
infrastructure component. No further action is recommended for low risks.
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ņ Medium-risk interactions represent a potential vulnerability. Medium risks may
require mitigative action. Medium risks are further broken down into low-medium and
high-medium risks to aid in the prioritization of mitigation measures.
ņ High-risk interactions represent an identified vulnerability. Mitigative actions are
required to ensure the viability of the infrastructure.
Special cases will also be highlighted and carefully considered in the assessment.
Special cases (with a risk score of 7) may warrant specific mitigative measures due to
either a severe outcome and low probability of occurrence, or a high probability and low
severity event.
5.1 Risk Workshop
For this project, the risk assessment was first completed by the WSP project team, then
results were validated with Town staff during a risk workshop. The workshop was held
on October 29, 2022, to inform the stakeholders of the risk assessment process,
discuss and confirm risk tolerance of the organization, and validate the preliminary
results of the risk assessment. Stakeholders were asked to comment on the highest
risks associated with each climate hazard and infrastructure category to ensure the
information captured in the risk assessment is consistent with the Town’s understanding
of its infrastructure. Feedback from the workshop was then incorporated into the final
risk scores and used to inform adaptation actions.
5.2 Risk Assessment Results
The risk assessment identified 186 relevant climate-infrastructure interactions using
available data, scientific literature, and the professional judgment of WSP’s project
team. Of the 185 interactions assessed, 97 correspond to a low risk, 59 to a low
medium risk, and 29 correspond to an opportunity. No high medium risks, high risks, or
special cases were identified.
The following subsections present the risk profile for linear engineered assets, water
infrastructure assets, parks and natural heritages system assets, and Town facilities.
For simplicity, and since no high medium, high or special case risks were identified, only
the low medium risks are presented. Opportunities are discussed in Section 5.3. See
Worksheet 3 in Appendix B for the complete risk assessment results.
Linear Engineered Assets
The low medium risks for linear engineered assets are presented below, in Table 3 for
roads and Table 4 for stormwater infrastructure.
Road Networks
The risk assessment identified five low medium risks related to road network
infrastructure and no high medium or high risks (Table 3). These top risks relate to
temporary flooding of roads and sidewalks, damage to pedestrian paths from freeze-
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thaw cycles, traffic hazards resulting from power outages and freezing rain reducing the
visibility of road signs during severe weather events.
Table 3: Low medium risks of the road network infrastructure
COMPONENT CLIMATE
HAZARD P S R JUSTIFICATION
Traffic signals Lightning 4 6 24 Power outages caused by lightning
strikes impacting traffic lights, potentially
leading to safety hazards.
Pedestrian
paths
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Temporary loss of access to pedestrian
paths due to flooding. Erosion and
washouts of paths may require in
increased maintenance.
Pavement and
curbs
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 3 15 Temporary loss of access to paved
surfaces due to flooding. Erosion and
washouts around paving may require
increased maintenance.
Pedestrian
paths
Freeze-thaw
cycles
3 4 12 Trip hazards and loss of accessibility to
sidewalks caused by heaving and
ground shift from freeze-thaw cycles.
Damage to concrete caused by
expansion and contraction.
Traffic signals Freezing rain 2 6 12 Icing over of signs causing safety
hazards and increased maintenance
requirements. Power outages caused
by ice-related downed power lines can
last for multiple days.
P: Probability S: Severity R: Risk
Stormwater Network
The risk assessment identified 12 low medium risks related to the stormwater network
infrastructure and no medium high or high risks (Table 4). Ten of these risks relate to
extreme short-duration precipitation events overwhelming components of the
stormwater management system. The highest risk is specific to bridges and culverts
which may have a higher severity of consequence leading to flooding or washouts if
capacity is exceeded. Risks related to high temperatures and drought reducing the
functionality of stormwater management ponds were also identified.
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Table 4: Low medium risks of the stormwater network infrastructure
COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
Bridges and
culverts
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 5 25 Exceeded culvert capacity and debris
blockages leading to flooding of
surrounding areas and increased
erosion. Bridges could be washed out
due to extreme floods.
Sewers Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris
blockages leading to flooding in the
system.
Maintenance
chambers
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris
blockages leading to flooding in the
system.
Catch basins Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris
blockages leading to flooding in the
system.
Laterals Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity leading to flooding
in the system.
Oil grit
separators
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris
blockages leading to flooding in the
system.
Cleanouts Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris
blockages leading to flooding in the
system.
Headwalls Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris
blockages leading to flooding in the
system. Bank stability issues and
washout around headwalls caused by
higher flows.
Stormwater
management
ponds
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity leading to
washouts, collapsed berms, and the
flooding of surrounding areas. Reduced
capacity to manage sediment.
Equalization
tanks
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris
blockages leading to flooding in the
system.
Stormwater
management
ponds
Heatwaves 5 4 20 Increased evaporation due to prolonged
high temperatures can result in a
decreased functionality of wet ponds.
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COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
Stormwater
management
ponds
High summer
temperature
4 4 16 Increased evaporation due to high
temperatures can result in a decreased
functionality of wet ponds.
P: Probability S: Severity R: Risk
Water Infrastructure Assets
The low medium risks for water infrastructure assets are presented for the water
network and sanitary network below.
Water Network
The risk assessment identified three low medium risks related to water network
infrastructure and no medium high or high risks (Table 5). The highest risk is related to
maintaining adequate water pressure in the system for firefighting due to increased
water use during extended periods of hot weather. Lesser risks exist for the Town’s bulk
water filling station and booster station which could experience damages from flooding
in extreme short-duration precipitation events.
Table 5: Low medium risks of the water network infrastructure
COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
Fire hydrants Heatwaves 5 4 20 Increased water usage during the
heatwave may affect water pressure for
the hydrants.
Bulk water
filling stations
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 3 15 Potential for electrical failures caused
by flooding.
Booster
stations
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 3 15 Potential for electrical failures caused
by flooding.
P: Probability S: Severity R: Risk
Sanitary Network
The risk assessment identified 13 low medium risks related to the sanitary network
infrastructure and no medium high or high risks (Table 6). The highest risk is related to
excess stormwater entering the sanitary network during extreme short-duration
precipitation events, limiting capacity, and potentially leading to sewer backups. All
other risks relate to increasing temperatures leading to more frequent occurrences of
odour events within the sanitary network.
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Table 6: Low medium risks of the sanitary network infrastructure
COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
Sewers Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 5 25 Increased inflow and infiltration (I&I) in
precipitation events may lead to
sanitary backups in the system
impacting users and leading to
wastewater in the environment.
Maintenance
chambers
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 5 25 Increased I&I in precipitation events
may lead to sanitary backups in the
system impacting users and leading to
wastewater in the environment.
Laterals Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 5 25 Increased I&I in precipitation events
may lead to sanitary backups in the
system impacting users and leading to
wastewater in the environment.
Equalization
tanks
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 5 25 Excess flows may enter the system,
affecting capacity.
Pumping
stations
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 5 25 Increased I&I in precipitation events
may lead to sanitary backups in the
system impacting users and leading to
wastewater in the environment. The
building itself may become flooded as a
result of overland flows and system
breakdown.
Sewers Heatwaves 5 3 15 Increased corrosion leading to odour
events.
Laterals Heatwaves 5 3 15 Increased corrosion leading to odour
events.
Equalization
tanks
Heatwaves 5 3 15 Increased corrosion leading to odour
events.
Pumping
stations
Heatwaves 5 3 15 Increased corrosion leading to odour
events. Increased potential for cooling
requirements to maintain equipment.
Sewers High summer
temperature
4 3 12 Increased corrosion leading to odour
events.
Laterals High summer
temperature
4 3 12 Increased corrosion leading to odour
events.
Equalization
tanks
High summer
temperature
4 3 12 Increased corrosion leading to odour
events.
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COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
Pumping
stations
High summer
temperature
4 3 12 Increased corrosion leading to odour
events. Increased potential for cooling
requirements to maintain equipment.
P: Probability S: Severity R: Risk
Parks and Natural Heritage System
The low medium risks for the parks and natural heritage system are presented in
Table 7. The risk assessment identified 10 low medium risks related to parks and
natural heritage and no medium high or high risks. The top risks relate to issues with
playing fields that are difficult to maintain and become unusable during both extended
periods of hot dry weather and extreme precipitation events. High temperatures,
extreme precipitation, and severe thunderstorms also present a risk for damage to
landscaping requiring increased maintenance and cleanup costs.
Table 7: Low medium risks of the park and natural heritage system infrastructure
COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
Land
associated
with municipal
facilities
Heatwaves 5 5 25 Playing fields may become unusable
after dry and high-temperature
periods.
Land
associated
with municipal
facilities
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 5 25 Playing fields may become unusable
after periods of very heavy rain and
flooding.
Land
associated
with municipal
facilities
High summer
temperature
4 5 20 Playing fields may become unusable
after dry and high-temperature
periods.
Land
maintained for
environmental
purposes
Heatwaves 5 3 15 Vegetation dieback and increased
watering or replacement of vegetation
required.
Land
maintained for
environmental
purposes
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 3 15 Washout of vegetation, erosion of soil,
exposure of roots, and damage to
trees and vegetation.
Park
structures
Snow 5 3 15 Decreased snow available for ice
making for the outdoor ice rinks.
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COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
Land
maintained for
environmental
purposes
High summer
temperature
4 3 12 Vegetation dieback and increased
watering or replacement of vegetation
required.
Open space
and parkland
Lightning 4 3 12 Replacement and maintenance of
vegetation may be required after
lightning damage to trees and plants.
Debris can also cause physical
hazards.
Land
associated
with municipal
facilities
Lightning 4 3 12 Replacement and maintenance of
vegetation may be required after
lightning damage to trees and plants.
Debris can also cause physical
hazards.
Land
maintained for
environmental
purposes
Lightning 4 3 12 Replacement and maintenance of
vegetation may be required after
lightning damage to trees and plants.
Debris can also cause physical
hazards.
P: Probability S: Severity R: Risk
Facilities
The low medium risks for facilities are presented in Table 8. The risk assessment
identified 16 low medium risks related to facilities and no medium high or high risks. The
highest risk relates to heatwaves which are projected to increase in frequency and
duration. Heatwaves may exceed the cooling capacity of Town facilities, leading to
uncomfortable indoor temperatures for staff and patrons and limiting the ability to use
Town facilities as cooling centres during heatwaves. Increasing summer temperatures
and heatwaves may also accelerate the degradation of facility hardscaping like parking
lots and walkways. Other risks exist for facility components that may be damaged by
extreme precipitation and severe storm events. These components include electrical
systems, exterior HVAC components, building envelope components, and plumbing
systems.
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Table 8: Low medium risks of the facilities infrastructure
COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
HVAC
Systems
Heatwaves 5 5 25 Potential to exceed the capacity of
cooling systems in facilities, which
impacts the ability of facilities to act as
cooling shelters.
Electrical
systems
Heatwaves 5 4 20 Increased demand on cooling
systems and therefore electrical
systems, potentially exceeding facility
capacity.
Hardscaping Heatwaves 5 3 15 Increased deterioration of pavements
and concrete slabs through rutting
and/or buckling, requiring increased
maintenance, and leading to a
decreased service life.
HVAC
Systems
High summer
temperature
4 4 16 Potential to exceed the capacity of
cooling systems in facilities, which
may require replacements to meet
demand.
Hardscaping High summer
temperature
4 4 16 Increased deterioration of pavement
and concrete slabs through rutting
and/or buckling, requiring increased
maintenance and leading to a
decreased service life.
Electrical
systems
High summer
temperature
4 4 16 Increased demand on cooling
systems and therefore electrical
systems, potentially exceeding facility
capacity.
HVAC
Systems
High summer
temperature
(CDD)
5 3 15 Increased annual demand on cooling
systems, potentially leading to
increased maintenance and energy
costs.
Electrical
systems
High summer
temperature
(CDD)
5 3 15 Increased annual demand on cooling
systems and associated increase in
demand for electricity potentially
leading to increased maintenance
costs.
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COMPONENT CLIMATE
PARAMETER P S R JUSTIFICATION
Electrical
systems
Lightning 4 5 20 Lightning can lead to increased power
outages depending on the reliability of
the local utility supply. Facilities
without emergency generators may
temporarily lose the ability to operate,
which is significant for emergency and
shelter facilities.
HVAC
Systems
Lightning 4 4 16 Damage to rooftop components if
struck by lightning.
HVAC
Systems
Wildfires 4 4 16 Smoke from wildfires may impact
indoor air quality in buildings and
increase filter replacements.
Plumbing
systems
Extreme short-
duration
precipitation
5 3 15 Precipitation may exceed rooftop
drainage capacity leading to ponding
on roofs. Infiltration to foundation
drainage systems may exceed sump
pump capacities leading to flooding in
basements or on ground floors.
Building
envelope
systems
Wind 3 6 18 Potential for damage to building
envelope components if design wind
loading is exceeded. Potential for the
bubble roof to blow off of the JOC and
sports dome considering past issues
with wind.
Building
structural
systems
Wind 3 5 15 Potential for wind loads to exceed
structural design capacities.
Electrical
systems
Wind 3 5 15 Windstorms can lead to increased
power failures depending on the
reliability of the local utility supply.
Facilities without emergency
generators may temporarily lose the
ability to operate, which is significant
for emergency and shelter facilities.
Electrical
systems
Freezing rain 2 6 12 Freezing rain can lead to increased
power failures depending on the
reliability of the local utility supply.
Facilities without emergency
generators may temporarily lose the
ability to operate, which is significant
for emergency and shelter facilities.
P: Probability S: Severity R: Risk
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5.3 Discussion of Risks
The risk assessment identified 59 low medium risk interactions. Neither high medium,
high risks nor special cases were identified. The distribution of the low medium risks
across the Town’s asset classes is as follows: 17 for linear engineered assets, 16 for
water infrastructure assets, 10 for parks and natural heritage systems assets, and 16 for
facilities.
While the distribution of low medium risks across asset types is comparable, the highest
risks are associated with three climate parameters. With extreme short-duration
precipitation, there is a potential risk of flooding and backups in the stormwater and
sanitary systems. Further, playing field and landscape maintenance may increase due
to flooding events, which may become more frequent in the future. High summer
temperatures and heatwave events may exceed the cooling capacity of HVAC systems
in the future. Again, playing field and landscape maintenance needs may increase
following periods of dryness and high temperatures.
Opportunities identified in the risk assessment are associated with snow and low winter
temperatures. For both climate parameters, milder winter conditions may lead to
reduced or decreased demands, requirements, or impacts to infrastructure. A summary
of the opportunities for each asset class is given below.
x Facilities: reduced demand on heating systems and reduced snow clearing
requirements.
x Linear engineered assets: decreased salting and winter maintenance
requirements for road components, bridges, and culverts; decreased impacts of
salt corrosion and damage from snowplows for road luminaires and traffic
signals; decreased snowmelt events which may reduce demand on stormwater
system components.
x Water infrastructure assets: decreased impacts of salt corrosion for fire hydrants;
decreased breakages to water mains, water valves, and service connections;
decreased snowmelt events which may reduce the likelihood of sanitary
backups.
x Parks and natural heritage system assets: decreased snow load on park
structures.
The identified opportunities primarily relating to reduced maintenance requirements for
the most part come with increases in maintenance due to opposing climate trends.
Therefore, budget requirements may not reduce, but priorities for maintenance can be
shifted.
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6 Recommendations
Step 5 of the PIEVC process is to provide recommendations and conclusions based on
the risk assessment. For this project, these formed the basis of the adaptation plan
described in this section.
Potential adaptation actions are proposed for all risks rated medium or above identified
through the risk assessment process. These actions are informed by feedback from the
risk workshop and input from the WSP project team with expertise related to each risk.
A list of proposed actions and associated implementation details including priority,
approximate duration, cost, and the Town staff lead were provided to the Resilient
Infrastructure Working Group for feedback, which was then incorporated into the final
adaptation plan below. Recommendations for adaptation actions and details on their
implementation are presented in table format for the four asset categories covered in
this assessment. The implementation tables are organized as follows:
ņ Actions and Justification: Descriptions of the recommended adaptation actions
and how and why these contribute to resilience in the specific infrastructure
category.
ņ Risk rating: The rating of the highest risk that the action is aimed to address.
Please refer to Section 5 for a description of risk ratings used in this project.
ņ Priority: The urgency with which the action should be pursued.
Short term actions should be implemented within the next 1-5 years,
Medium term actions should be planned and budgeted for soon but
implemented in the next 5-10 years,
Long term actions should be evaluated and planned for over time and
implemented on an ongoing basis or in the long term (>10 years).
ņ Duration: An estimate of the required timeline based on the action type to help
inform planning and budgeting.
ņ Cost Range: Order of magnitude cost estimates for the adaptation actions. These
have been developed with input from SMEs and are based on similar projects,
current market conditions, and costs. Cost ranges are broken down as follows:
$: <$10,000
$$: $10,000-$100,000
$$$: $100,000-$1M
$$$$: 1M+
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Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 24 6.1 Linear Engineered Assets Most risks related to Linear Assets are caused by an increase in extreme precipitation that may overwhelm stormwater systems leading to localized flooding and erosion of stormwater channels and roadsides. Actions for this asset category focus on improving the resilience of the stormwater system to both extreme precipitation and drought events. Actions are also directed at improving road maintenance and operations to manage increasing degradation from shifting temperatures and extreme events (Table 9). Table 9: Adaptation actions for Linear Engineered Assets (Roads and Stormwater) Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration (years) Cost Range Lead L-1 Apply Low Impact Development (LID) and other "at-source" or "lot-level control" strategies aimed at reducing and delaying conveyance system loading. LID and other source controls can reduce the volume of water entering the linear storm system, improving water quality by capturing and treating rainfall where it lands. This will also reduce the risk of overwhelming the storm systems’ capacity during heavy rainfalls, avoiding flooding and erosion. 25 Short 10+ (considering city-wide improvements) $$ Development Planning, Policy Planning, Engineering Page 70 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 25 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration (years) Cost Range Lead L-2 Review maintenance procedures to reduce storm and sanitary system blockages and improve levels of service. Increased extreme precipitation events may exceed the capacities of the stormwater and sanitary networks. Increasing the frequency of stormwater inspections following storm events is a relatively low-cost option to identify potential problem areas and undertake preventative maintenance measures where needed. Similarly, preventative inspections and maintenance prior to large storm events to clear out blockages can reduce flooding impacts. 25 Short < 1 $ Operational Services Page 71 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 26 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration (years) Cost Range Lead L-3 Increase the resilience of assets identified as vulnerable in the Tannery Creek Flood Study and maintain the asset management system to prioritize and track resilience actions. Consider expanding floodplain studies to include all Town infrastructure and future climate projections. Increased extreme precipitation events may exceed the capacities of the stormwater and sanitary networks. A floodplain analysis was conducted to identify areas of concern within the original developed area of the town. This study can guide preliminary actions to improve flood resilience. Further studies may be required to account for projected increases in precipitation. These should aim to identify the value of assets at risk, and how risk may change in the future at each location. This information should be maintained in an asset management system that is updated as resilience actions are completed. 20 Short < 1 $$ Engineering Page 72 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 27 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration (years) Cost Range Lead L-4 Increase the resilience of erosion-prone areas of the stormwater network in association with the Stream Management Master Plan and LSRCA inspections. Enhancements such as increased rip rap and other protections against erosion at high flow locations such as headwalls may reduce impacts associated with extreme precipitation and flooding. Improvements should be in line with the Asset Management Plan, the Stream Management Master Plan, and existing work completed in partnership with the LSRCA. Costs may be higher if many improvements are required. 20 Medium 5 years $$ Operational Services L-5 Enhance stormwater management wet pond protections for drought and heatwaves. Plant trees and other drought-resistant vegetation around stormwater management wet ponds to provide shading and reduce evaporation in high temperatures, heatwaves, and/or periods of drought. This may also contribute to increased urban biodiversity. 16 Medium 5 years $$ Operational Services L-6 Increase stormwater management wet pond maintenance during drought and heatwaves. Increase wet pond inspections and add water as required to maintain adequate levels during drought and heatwave events where drawdown is a problem. Remove organics if odour becomes a problem during these events, and/or where there are concerns about water quality of future runoff. 16 Short As required $ Operational Services Page 73 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 28 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration (years) Cost Range Lead L-7 Increase the resilience of erosion-prone areas of the pedestrian paths and road network. Enhancements such as increased rip rap and other protections against erosion at vulnerable locations may prevent damages to roads and pathways associated with extreme precipitation and flooding. Improvements should be in line with the Asset Management Plan, targeting potentially vulnerable areas first due to age, condition, or potential for erosion. Costs may be higher if many improvements are required. 20 Medium 5 years $$ Operational Services L-8 Conduct a frost heave mitigation program. Freeze-thaw cycles are projected to increase in concentration in the winter and decrease annually, which may require adjustments to maintenance schedules to respond to frost heave damages. Accept that sidewalk heave will occur and institute an inspection program to grind the lips smooth at heave locations to remove the trip hazards and associated liability. Should frost heave damage become a significant issue, investment into preventative measures such as replacement of base course, regrading, ditching, and crack sealing may reduce damages, however, requires significant upfront capital. 12 Long 10 years $$ Operational Services Page 74 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 29 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration (years) Cost Range Lead L-9 Conduct a high visibility signage replacement program. Replacement and/or conversion of all safety signage to High-Intensity Prismatic (HIP) or Diamond Grade sheeting would maximize retro-reflectivity which may be important for visibility during freezing rain or poor visibility events. Diamond grade sheeting also has the longest service life of available sheeting alternatives. The Town can monitor for visibility issues (accidents) and implement upgrades as needed. 12 Long 5 years $$$ Operational Services L-10 Prepare temporary signage for traffic signals during power failures. Ensure traffic signals have temporary battery backups so these may continue to operate in power outages. Consider installing temporary folding stop signs at critical intersections as a low-cost, quickly deployable solution for extended periods of power outages, or having some prepared for deployment when needed. 24 Short 2 years $$ Operational Services $:<$10,000 $$: $10,000-$100,000 $$$: $100,000-$1M $$$$: $1M+ Page 75 of 202
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Some roads and stormwater assets are located within floodplain areas (Figure 6) and
may be impacted by flooding during extreme precipitation events. The Regional and
100-year Tannery Creek floodplain profiles were mapped as part of the 2019 Town of
Aurora Stream Management Master Plan and Tannery Creek Flood Relief Study
(Aquafor Beech Ltd., 2019). The map below shows the intersection between this
floodplain and the Town’s linear infrastructure. This does not represent all linear assets
that may be affected by extreme precipitation and pluvial (overland) flooding but shows
areas at risk of riverine flooding as assessed in 2019. More detailed information in the
Tannery Creek Flood Study should be consulted in prioritizing flood adaptation actions.
Precipitation associated with future climate conditions has not been modeled, so at-risk
assets are likely to include more than what is shown on the map below and in the recent
flood study.
Figure 5: Map of Stormwater infrastructure located in floodplain areas
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Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 31 6.2 Water Infrastructure Assets The highest rated moderate risks to the water and sanitary networks relate to increasing precipitation and flooding during extreme events. Actions for this asset category focus on understanding the capacity and vulnerability of water and sanitary networks to manage risk related to heavy precipitation and severe weather events that may damage components, overload systems capacity, or cause indirect issues like power outages (Table 10). Table 10: Adaptation Actions for Water Infrastructure Assets (Water and Sanitary Networks) Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Town Staff Lead W-1 Support landowners to protect their property from sanitary backups through education and incentive programs. Many issues related to sanitary backups can be addressed at the property level by ensuring new construction is properly graded and that owners of new and existing properties have backflow protection installed within their property or building plumbing system. Public outreach can ensure property owners understand the risk of sewer backups and how they can protect their property. Incentives that offset the cost of backup valve installation can increase public uptake, saving property owners and the municipality money in the long term. Community outreach is required to raise awareness and trigger inquiries from landowners. Building Services (inspectors) and the Operational Services team may also be required to provide input or assessments for certain sites. Associated costs include staff time and subsidies. 25 Medium 5-10 years As low as $ per year, $$ over 5 years, $$$ over 10 years Development Planning, Policy Planning, Engineering, Building Services, Operational Services Page 77 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 32 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Town Staff Lead W-2 Conduct a system-wide study to understand the age, conditions, and capacity of all storm and sanitary components. This is a large-scale project that would help to prioritize long-term planning for infrastructure construction and maintenance. The study should address both sanitary and storm systems and include hydrologic modeling to understand system loading issues and future climate risk. This information should be maintained up to date in an asset management system that is updated as resilience actions are completed. 25 Medium to long 5-10 years $$$ Engineering, GIS / IT W-3 Continue to develop and practice emergency response plans as part of the Drinking Water Quality Management System to protect and restore critical water system infrastructure in the event of damage from severe storms or natural disasters. Storms and extreme precipitation events are projected to increase in the future, and these may impact the water and wastewater systems in the Town. Aside from the actions recommended to prevent or reduce these impacts, response planning is also important to recover quickly from disruptions. Moderate costs are associated with updating and practicing emergency response plans, but this can save costs in the long-term by reducing the consequence of and disruption to services associated with asset failures. 15 Short 2-5 years $$ Operational Services Page 78 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 33 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Town Staff Lead W-4 Implement flood monitoring systems at water booster stations and sanitary lift stations to identify issues early before damage to infrastructure or loss of power occurs. An increase in extreme precipitation events may lead to flooding, which could impact infrastructure at booster stations and interrupt service. Manual or automated monitoring systems can improve response times and mitigate the worst impacts of flooding with early detection. Engineering staff would be needed to manage the implementation of the system and determine warning triggers (whether measured manually or automatically), and Operations and Maintenance staff would be needed to implement response. 15 Short 1-3 years $$ Operational Services Page 79 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 34 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Town Staff Lead W-5 Review HVAC sufficiency at all pumping facilities to ensure the system is designed for increased temperatures. Review HVAC equipment connections to standby power in the event of power failures and maintenance practices in high-temperature conditions as needed. Extreme heat may lead to high temperatures in pumping stations which could impact functionality. A review of cooling capacities at pumping stations is low-cost and could be coupled with other asset initiatives (e.g., condition assessments). New infrastructure should be designed to consider a larger range and potentially higher ambient temperatures. This adaptation measure would reduce the likelihood of equipment failures in extreme heat events. 15 Medium 2-5 years $$ Engineering, Operational Services W-6 Continue to inspect and maintain backup generators for the water booster station and consider installing backup power at the sanitary lift station. As flooding due to extreme precipitation and lightning events may lead to more frequent power outages, having backup power systems at booster stations helps avoid or reduce interruptions to the water network. Installing a fixed or mobile backup power system at the sanitary lift station and ensuring that the generator at the water booster station is in good working order may become more important in the future. 15 Medium 2-5 years $$ Engineering, Operational Services Page 80 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 35 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Town Staff Lead W-7 Monitor for problematic sites for odour control issues in the sanitary system. Additive systems and/or air scrubbers may be used to respond to issues. There is a potential for future high temperatures to lead to increased corrosion in the sanitary system, which could lead to more odour events. Preventative maintenance and asset management practices can respond to corrosion, and there are odour management practices that the Town may consider applying to respond to odour events as needed. Wastewater additives and air scrubbers may be used at concentrated point sources. 15 Medium 2-5 year $$ Operational Services $:<$10,000 $$: $10,000-$100,000 $$$: $100,000-$1M $$$$: $1M+ Page 81 of 202
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Climate Change Adaptation Plan
36
Like linear engineered assets, some water and sanitary infrastructure is located within
the Regional and 100-year floodplain areas and may be at risk of flood-related damage.
See Figure 7 and Appendix A for an overview of exposed areas in the sanitary network.
More detailed information on creek flooding is available in the Town of Aurora’s Tannery
Creek Flood Study (Aquafor Beech Ltd., 2019). Precipitation associated with future
climate conditions has not been modeled, so at-risk assets are likely to include more
than what is shown on the map below and in the recent flood study.
Figure 6: Map of Sanitary infrastructure located in floodplain areas
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Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 37 6.3 Parks and Natural Heritage System Most risks associated with Parks and Natural Heritage are related to damaged landscaping from increasing temperatures and severe weather events. Increasing temperatures may also impact the operation of recreation facilities like ice rinks, requiring more maintenance and increasing operating costs. Actions to adapt parks and natural heritage assets to climate change focus on operations and maintenance changes and exploring solutions to improve water use and storage for landscaping needs (Table 11). Table 11: Adaptation Actions for Parks and Natural Heritage System Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead P-1 Conduct a study to investigate rainwater capture and storage needs and solutions for irrigation and drainage improvements for sports fields, parks, and municipal facilities. Sports fields become unusable during extended periods of hot, dry weather, and after periods of heavy rain. Capturing and storing rainwater during rainy periods can make more water available for irrigation during drought conditions. Improvements to water storage and irrigation infrastructure should be considered in a study alongside field drainage improvements to minimize interruptions to field usage. 25 Long 1-3 years $$ Recreation Services, Facilities Management Page 83 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 38 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead P-2 Plan for low maintenance landscaping with hardy species adapted to future climate conditions. As temperatures warm, choosing native plants for landscaping can improve local ecosystem health and make landscaping more resilient to climate change. Planted species may need to change over time as climate conditions shift. Consider future climate projections when planning new landscaping works and consider opportunities for increasing urban biodiversity. 15 Long >10 years (ongoing) $ Environment, Operational Services P-3 Plan for changes to ice rink management in warmer winters. Warmer winters and increased variability in snowpack may strain the Town’s ability to provide consistent outdoor ice-skating rinks to the public. If or when skating rinks become difficult to maintain with natural conditions of snow and cold temperatures, consider alternative methods of ice generation, or reduce the level of service related to public outdoor skating facilities. 15 Medium to Long 1-3 years $$ Community Services - Recreation Services, Operational Services P-4 Adopt maintenance procedures to proactively identify hazardous trees and undertake preventative maintenance before damage occurs during extreme events. Conduct regular inspections of high-use parks and natural heritage assets to identify sick or damaged trees that could become a hazard during extreme weather events (wind, lightning, storms). Undertaking preventative maintenance on these trees will reduce risk and reduce reactive cleanup costs. 12 Short 1-3 years $ Operational Services Page 84 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 39 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead P-5 Adopt maintenance procedures to inspect parks following extreme weather events to identify damaged landscaping and amenities to prioritize repairs and minimize service disruptions. Conduct damage inspections following extreme events to address hazards caused by debris or damage to trees that may require repair (i.e., trees and plants contributing to soil stability). 12 Short 1-3 years (Policy change) $ Operational Services $:<$10,000 $$: $10,000-$100,000 $$$: $100,000-$1M $$$$: $1M+ Page 85 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 40 6.4 Facilities The highest rated moderate risks for facilities are related to increases in extreme summer temperatures, which may exceed building cooling capacities. Risks are also present for damage related to heavy precipitation and severe weather events. Adaptation actions for facilities focus on incorporating future climate projections into future cooling system upgrades and improving operation and maintenance procedures to identify and correct weather-related damage to facilities before major repairs are required (Table 12). Table 12: Adaptation Actions for Facilities Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead F-1 Monitor cooling demand at facilities to identify where exceeding maximum cooling capacities is possible with high summer temperatures. Upgrade HVAC systems to meet future cooling demands, prioritize key facilities that could be used as cooling centers. Both extreme and average summer temperatures are expected to increase in the future putting strain on cooling systems and potentially exceeding system capacity during extreme events making it difficult to maintain comfortable indoor air temperatures. Identifying which systems are most likely to have capacity challenges with future temperature will help to prioritize upgrades at the time of asset renewal or sooner if necessary. Facilities that are used as cooling centers, or that vulnerable populations rely on (e.g., Aurora Family Leisure Complex, Aurora Public Library) should be prioritized to maintain comfortable temperatures in extreme heat. 25 Short 5 years $$$ Community Services - Facilities Management Page 86 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 41 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead F-2 Consider both current and future cooling demands with increased temperatures during the planning and design of HVAC and electrical systems. Where cooling systems are being replaced, assess and upgrade the electrical system accordingly. Electrical systems are designed based on maximum cooling loads. If increased temperatures exceed the capacity for cooling at certain facilities, upgrades to both the cooling system and electrical system may be required. An engineering assessment would be required to determine capacity needs and plan for future climate conditions. 20 Short 5 years $$$ Facilities Management F-3 Provide access to backup power at all facilities critical to Town operations to maintain essential operations during power outages. Prioritize low-carbon sources of backup power where possible. Although difficult to predict, lightning strikes and storms may become more frequent in the future. Along with wind and heat events, critical buildings should be prepared for power outages in the future. This is particularly important for facilities that are designated for use as emergency shelters. 20 Short 1-3 years $$$ Community Services – Facilities Management Page 87 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 42 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead F-4 Install lightning protection systems on tall or isolated buildings (such as Town Hall, the Aurora Community Centre), and those which are deemed critical for Town operations. Although difficult to predict, lightning strikes may become more frequent in the future. This could damage electrical systems in buildings, and potentially cause power outages. Critical buildings should be prepared for extended power outages in the future. This is particularly important for facilities that are designated for use as emergency shelters. 16 Medium 1-3 years $$ Community Services – Facilities Management F-5 Continue to inspect and maintain roof systems, paying particular attention to domed roofs at the Sports Dome and the JOC regularly and after extreme wind events. Proactively repair signs of material distress to avoid roof failure. The Aurora Sports Dome and JOC bubble roofs were previously damaged in high wind events. Although these have since been repaired, domed fabric roofs remain more vulnerable to extreme wind than fixed building roof enclosures. As extreme wind events may increase in the future, continue to inspect and maintain roof systems, paying particular attention to domed roofs at the Sports Dome and JOC regularly and after extreme wind events to proactively repair signs of material distress. 18 Short Ongoing $ Community Services – Facilities Management Page 88 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 43 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead F-6 Monitor air quality for key municipal facilities (e.g., those with many staff or public users) and consider upgrading HVAC systems to accommodate higher-rated filters such as MERV 13 equivalent filters as well as including space for the addition of MERV 8 pre-filters in case of a poor air quality event. Wildfires in Canada are projected to increase in the future, and smoke from either nearby or distant fires can impact air quality in Aurora. This may reduce the indoor air quality in buildings and increase the frequency of filter replacement. Filter sizing increases must remain within manufacturer recommendations to not impact equipment efficiency. 16 Medium 1 year $$ Community Services – Facilities Management F-7 Continue to inspect parking lots and hardscaping regularly to identify heat-related damage and implement small repairs where feasible to avoid further degradation in hot weather. Review the granular base structure and asphalt mix design during the next replacement cycle. Extreme heat can lead to increased deterioration and wear on hardscaping. 16 Medium Ongoing $ - $$ Operational Services, Engineering Page 89 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 44 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead F-8 Monitor internal drainage systems in facilities and prepare for a projected increase in precipitation events. Where facilities rely on sump pumps to manage inflow and roof drainage, review precipitation load calculations based on future climate projections, and incorporate the increased load when sump units are to be upgraded or replaced. A projected increase in extreme precipitation may lead to an increase in below-ground flooding events at residences and at Town facilities. It is best practice to store electrical and mechanical equipment above grade where possible and ensure that where sump pumps are used, these are designed to manage current and future projected extreme precipitation and flooding events. 15 Short 1-3 years $$ Community Services – Facilities Management Page 90 of 202
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan 45 Action ID Action Description / Justification Risk Rating Priority Duration Cost Range Lead F-9 Continue inspections of facilities structures regularly and after extreme wind events. Proactively repair damages as needed. An engineering study would be required to assess whether projected wind loads may surpass designed structural capacities at facilities, which could be initiated if regular inspections identify potential wind-related issues. There is a potential for wind loads to increase in the future, which may exceed the designed capacities of the facility structures. Building structures are inspected regularly (every 5 years) to monitor for deterioration and damages. In addition to this existing practice, inspections of facilities after extreme wind events could identify any areas requiring further inspection. 15 Short Ongoing $-$$ Community Services – Facilities Management, Engineering $:<$10,000 $$: $10,000-$100,000 $$$: $100,000-$1M $$$$: $1M+ Page 91 of 202
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7 Conclusions and Future Considerations
This report identified 59 climate risks that have the potential to impact the Town of
Aurora’s municipal assets in the next 30 years and beyond. These risks arise from
changes in temperature, precipitation, and severe weather that are beyond the historical
range of climate conditions for which infrastructure has been designed. The risk
assessment identified increases in temperature and extreme precipitation to be
prevalent climate hazards across all asset categories with risk related to severe storms
also expected to impact road networks, parks, and facilities. To manage these risks and
adapt to the changing climate, the Town will need to take strategic actions to continue
providing quality services to residents in a warmer and more unpredictable climate.
This risk assessment presented an overview of the conditions climate change is
expected to bring, and how that might impact infrastructure under the jurisdiction of the
Town of Aurora. Not only does this help identify potential vulnerabilities, but it also
highlights the importance of certain activities that the Town is already doing. For
example, studying potential flood-prone areas in the Town and collaborating with the
local conservation authority is currently a priority, and this study demonstrates that this
will continue to be important in the future. Certain Town operations and procedures
related to mitigating risks were discussed in this study (such as emergency response
planning for flooding and heat), which provides justification to continue executing and
budgeting for such activities in the future.
Consideration should be given to integrating climate risks and adaptation into the Town
of Aurora’s asset management policy to inform decision-making about the operations
and maintenance of Town assets and prioritize future investments to reduce climate
change risks. When considering adaptation action to increase the resilience of Town
assets, it is important to assess the Town’s desired levels of service along with future
climate projections. In some cases, this will mean designing infrastructure or building
retrofits to exceed current codes and standards which are based on historical climate
conditions. Proactively considering the future climate conditions and levels of service
an asset will need to support will allow the town to right-size its infrastructure and
investments to build resilience into its operations. As the Town continues on its climate
mitigation and adaptation journey, this risk assessment should be reviewed and
updated alongside future asset management planning.
Managing risk and adapting the Town’s infrastructure to a changing climate is just one
component to increasing community resilience. Beyond infrastructure damage and
disruptions to service, a variety of economic, social, and environmental impacts related
to climate change that may require broader community adaptation strategies should be
addressed. Additionally, the first step in adapting to climate change is to reduce local
greenhouse gas emissions to help limit global warming and mitigate climate change
risks in the long term. The Town is already taking action on climate change mitigation
through initiatives like the Community Energy Plan, Green Fleet Action Plan, Municipal
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Building Challenge, and installing Solar PV systems on Town Facilities. To take climate
action further, Aurora can start to coordinate its efforts for both adaptation and
mitigation to develop policies and actions that simultaneously reduce community
emissions and risks while supporting social, economic, and environmental co-benefits.
Approaching climate action in this way will support the Town’s journey toward Low
Carbon Resilience.
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Reference Materials
ACT. (2021). A Low Carbon Resilience Decision Tool for Local Government. ACT
(Action on Climate Team), SFU. https://act-adapt.org/wp-
content/uploads/2021/05/ICABCCI_LCRDecisionToolLocalGovernment_WEB-2.pdf
CBC News. (2021). Severe thunderstorm downs trees, floods roads across Toronto.
Retrieved 2022/04/06, from https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-rainfall-
heat-warnings-stormy-weather-1.6084849
CTV News. (2018). Sections of Ontario roadway buckle in extreme heat. Retrieved
2022/04/06, from https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/sections-of-ontario-roadway-buckle-
in-extreme-heat-1.3996620
Cheng et al. (2012). Possible impacts of climate change on extreme weather events at
local scale in south-central Canada, Climate Change, 112, 963-979. DOI
10.1007/s10584-011-0252-0.
Cheng et al. (2014). Possible impacts of climate change on wind gusts under
downscaled future climate conditions: update for Canada, Journal of Climate, 7, 1255-
1270. DOI 10.1175/JCLI-D-13-00020.1,
Derksen et al. (2019). Changes in snow, ice, and permafrost across Canada; Chapter 5
in Canada’s Changing Climate Report, (ed.) E. Bush and D.S. Lemmen, Government of
Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, p.194-260
Flannigan, M. (2020): Fire Management Systems Laboratory. Fire and Climate Change.
Consulted on September 30, 2021. Website:
https://sites.ualberta.ca/~flanniga/climatechange.html
Government of Ontario. (2020a). A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe. https://files.ontario.ca/mmah-place-to-grow-office-consolidation-en-2020-08-
28.pdf
Government of Ontario. (2020b). Provincial Policy Statement (PPS)
https://www.ontario.ca/pps
Government of Ontario. (2022). Planning Act https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90p13
Insurance Bureau of Canada (ICB), Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).
(2019). The Cost of Climate Adaptation. http://assets.ibc.ca/Documents/Disaster/The-
Cost-of-Climate-Adaptation-Summary-EN.pdf
O. Reg. 588/17: Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure.
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r17588
Regional Municipality of York. (2021). Draft York Region Official Plan.
https://yorkpublishing.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=27747
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49
Romps et al. (2014). Projected increase in lightning strikes in the United States due to
global warming, Science, 346(6211), 851-854. DOI 10.1126/science.1259100
Town of Aurora. (2011). 2011 – 2031 Aurora Strategic Plan
https://www.aurora.ca/en/townservices/resources/Documents/Publications/Strategic-
Plan.pdf
Town of Aurora. (2018). Asset Management & Investment Plan: Securing Sustainability
of our Infrastructure. https://www.aurora.ca/en/your-government/resources/operating-
budget/Budgets-2010-2019/2019/Draft-2018-Asset-Management-Plan.pdf
Town of Aurora. (n.d.). Strategic Asset Management Policy.
https://www.aurora.ca/en/your-government/resources/budget-and-finances/Strategic-
Asset-Management-Policy---FINAL.pdf
Vomero, J. (2018). Spring ice storm leaves over 100,000 without power across
Southern Ontario. Global News. Retreved 2022/04/06, from
https://globalnews.ca/news/4147775/spring-ice-storm-ontario-power-outages/
Wang, X. et al. (2014). The potential and realized spread of wildfires across Canada,
Global Change Biology (2014) 20, 2518–2530, doi: 10.1111/gcb.12590
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Appendix
A. Mapping
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Appendix
B. PIEVC Worksheets
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Appendix
B-1. Worksheet 1
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WSP Canada Inc.
Toronto, ON
wsp.com
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM #1
CLIENT: Town of Aurora
PROJECT: Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation
Plan
WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00
SUBJECT: PIEVC Worksheet #1 DATE: 13 August 2021
RECIPIENT: Natalie Kehle, Town of Aurora
FROM: Lisa MacTavish, P.Eng.
1 INTRODUCTION
The Town of Aurora has engaged WSP to conduct a climate change adaptation plan for the infrastructure assets
within the Town of Aurora. The adaptation plan will be informed by a climate change risk and vulnerability
assessment to be completed using the Public Infrastructure Engineering Vulnerability Committee (PIEVC) protocol
as it is a nationally recognized tool for assessing infrastructure risk due to climate change. This technical memo
presents the results of the project definition step (Step 1) of the PIEVC protocol.
2 WORKSHEET 1
2.1 PREPARE STEP 1 WORKSHEET
Enter Yes or No
a. Use this Worksheet; or
YES
b. Prepare practitioner specific documentation.
i. Practitioner specific documentation MUST detail each task outlined
in this step of the Protocol.
NO
Comments and Observations
The worksheet provided by PIEVC is exhaustive. By using it, WSP makes sure that it completes every
requirement from the protocol. It also allows Town of Aurora to review the progress made by WSP in the
assessment as each step is completed.
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2.2 IDENTIFY THE INFRASTRUCTURE
Choose the infrastructure to be
evaluated for changing climate
vulnerability.
Infrastructure assets in the Town of Aurora, Ontario.
Provide a general description
of the infrastructure.
The scope of this study includes bridges & culverts, buildings, parks, the
road network, sanitary network, storm water services, and the water network
within the Town of Aurora, Ontario.
The Town owns and operates some infrastructure services which are
integrated with infrastructure systems owned by other parties including York
Region and the Province of Ontario. Third party assets are excluded from this
assessment.
The Town of Aurora owns and operates the following infrastructure systems
within the municipal boundaries:
ņ Municipal roads, bridges, culverts, and walkways;
ņ Municipal government, protection, recreation, and cultural services
facilities;
ņ Municipal transportation services and related infrastructure;
ņ Parks;
ņ Drinking water and sanitary water distribution and pumping systems;
and
ņ Stormwater infrastructure.
Reference additional
background and detailed
information sources.
Asset Database Listing, 2018.
Draft 2018 Asset Management Plan.
Aurora Classification Structure Review V4, (no date).
Comments and Observations
Privately owned property within the Town is excluded from this assessment.
The risk assessment will be completed at the asset sub-class level, aggregated according to the asset management
plan classification (AMP 2018).
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2.3 IDENTIFY CLIMATE PARAMETERS
Based on professional judgement, identify which climate trends and weather events may contribute to
infrastructure vulnerability.
ņ Rise in summer temperatures;
ņ Rise in winter temperatures, with more winter rain and thawing events;
ņ Increase in frequency of extremely warm temperatures (heat waves);
ņ Increase in intensity and frequency of short-duration precipitation events;
ņ Increase in annual or seasonal precipitation;
ņ Drought;
ņ Wind regime change (gusts and hourly wind speeds);
ņ Increase in storm activity (thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, dust);
ņ Increase in ice storm episodes; and
ņ Changes in freeze/thaw cycles.
Based on professional judgement, identify which climatic trends and/or weather events may combine to
create infrastructure vulnerability.
ņ Rain or freezing rain on snow events can combine and increase the weight of the snowpack;
ņ Significant snow accumulation accompanied by strong winds;
ņ Strong winds or freezing rain episode (causing power outages) directly followed by a cold wave requiring an
increase in heating capacity; and
ņ Storms or thunderstorms (causing power outages) directly followed by a heatwave requiring an increase in
cooling capacity.
Comments and Observations
Assessment of the evolution of the above-mentioned climatic trends and meteorological phenomena will be
conducted using a relevant selection of the following climate-related parameters:
Temperature
ņ Average maximum summer temperature;
ņ Average minimum winter temperature;
ņ Annual cooling degree days;
ņ Annual heating degree days;
ņ Extreme maximum temperature;
ņ Extreme minimum temperature;
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ņ Length and frequency of heat waves; and
ņ Freeze-thaw cycles.
Precipitation
ņ Annual precipitation;
ņ Annual snowfall;
ņ Extreme rain events;
ņ Extreme snowfall;
ņ Number of snowstorms; and
ņ Freezing ice.
Wind
ņ Maximum hourly windspeed; and
ņ Maximum wind gust speed.
Natural hazards
ņ River or creek flooding;
ņ Wildfire;
ņ Tornado; and
ņ Lightning and storm activity.
Climate projections will likely be unavailable for some climate variables (e.g. wind, tornadoes. lightning). We
will refer to historical events and trends as well as to the scientific literature to estimate probable change in these
parameters.
2.4 IDENTIFY TIME HORIZONS
Define the period over which the
infrastructure must operate and for
which climate trends will be projected
for the engineering vulnerability
assessment.
As per the Asset Database Listing, the Estimated Useful Life of
Town infrastructure varies from six months to 100 years. We will
therefore assess climate trends based on the baseline (historical data),
and the near future (2021-2050) time horizon.
The near future is appropriate for components with a shorter design
life (e.g. HVAC systems with lives from 10-30 years), and other
infrastructure that is part-way through its life or nearing end of life,
and has therefore been chosen for this assessment. This also allows
comparability of the results for these components with components
designed for the far future (e.g. the mains system for water,
wastewater and sanitary network with design lives of 100 years).
Comments and Observations
Potential risks are given a threshold at which impacts may occur to the infrastructure. These are based on design
codes, historical events, or professional judgement. The protocol is designed such that every threshold is given
one probability rating to define the likelihood that future climate may exceed the infrastructure threshold. WSP
will analyze climate trends and provide a probability rating for the 2021-2050 time horizon for this assessment.
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2.5 IDENTIFY THE GEOGRAPHY
Summarize site-specific, local, and/or geographical features relevant to the evaluation.
Geographical Considerations
ņ The Town of Aurora is 50 km north of Toronto in Ontario and is partially situated on the Oak Ridges
Moraine, an ecologically important geological landform.
Water Features
ņ Aurora is located within the Great Lakes region approximately 50 km north of Lake Ontario.
ņ Aurora is approximately 25 km from Lake Simcoe and is situated in the Lake Simcoe watershed.
ņ Tannery Creek and East Holland River flow through the Town.
ņ Aurora is built on the Yonge Street Aquifer.
Topography
ņ The Town of Aurora is partially situated on the Oak Ridges Moraine meaning there is some variation in
elevation (~100 metres above sea level), decreasing from south/south-east to north/north-west.
Ground conditions
ņ The Oak Ridges Moraine consists of sand, silt and gravel deposits which infiltrates water easily.
ņ Surficial geology in Aurora is mostly silt.
ņ As Aurora is a partially urbanized environment surrounded by crops, forest and other municipalities, minimal
ground permeability in the industrial and commercial areas and moderate permeability in residential areas
can be expected due to paving and surfacing. Park lands, crops and golf courses predominantly located in the
higher South East area of Town can be expected to provide high infiltration.
Provide references.
Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, Regulation Maps
https://www.lsrca.on.ca/maps
Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust, Water and the Moraine
https://www.oakridgesmoraine.org/water/
The Regional Municipality of York, Appendix D: Yonge Street Aquifer Well Capacity Restoration Project -
Alternative Well Area Selection Report
https://www.york.ca/wps/wcm/connect/yorkpublic/f5ab38b7-ac7a-4941-b90d-
8af0be675ad3/App+D_Part1.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=mu99hNU
Google Earth, 2021
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Comments and Observations
Topography and local flooding history and extents will be investigated to inform pluvial and riverine flooding,
respectively, through available flood maps and supplemented by Town staff interviews. Proximity to water
courses with fluctuating levels may indirectly impact the groundwater table and infiltration.
2.6 IDENTIFY JURISDICTIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
List the jurisdictions, laws, regulations, guidelines and administrative processes that are applicable to the
infrastructure.
Land use and planning:
The Town of Aurora Zoning By-law 6000-17 regulates development and the use of all lands within the Town of
Aurora.
The Town of Aurora Strategic Plan identifies and assesses growth and development opportunities that ensure the
future economic, social and environmental sustainability and health of Aurora.
Land use planning in the Town of Aurora is subject to the rules and directions through the Planning Act, the
Provincial Policy Statement and geographically specific policies in provincial plans in the Lake Simcoe
Protection Plan and the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan which include land use designations and
regulations on new developments. Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority regulates approximately 40% of
the Lake Simcoe watershed, including some areas in the Town of Aurora.
The Asset Management Plan for the Town of Aurora was most recently updated in 2018. Details regarding level
of service requirements were in progress at the time of this study but this assessment will be based on the
information available from the Asset Management Plan 2018.
The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe from the Ontario government states that municipalities
should assess infrastructure risks and vulnerabilities caused by climate change, and identify actions and
investments to address these challenges. Similarly, the Provincial Policy Statement for Ontario includes a
statement on preparing for the impacts of climate change to public infrastructure.
Laws & By-laws:
The Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act established the provincial framework for managing
emergencies and key municipalities requirements.
The Town of Aurora has the following bylaws in place which apply to the infrastructure in the Town:
ņ Backflow Prevention Bylaw – 20191022 – 621319;
ņ Respecting Property Standards – 19990623 – 404499P;
ņ Sewer Use By-Law – 20130611 – 551813 (2); and
ņ Amend 330591 Municipal Waterworks Distribution Bylaw – 20210330- 632221.
The Regional Municipality of York has the following bylaws which apply to the Town of Aurora Infrastructure:
ņ Discharge of Sewage, Storm Water and Land Drainage Bylaw (Amended 2014) 2014-23.
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Applicable environmental laws:
ņ Environmental Protection Act; and
ņ Ontario Water Resources Act.
Regulations:
The Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure Regulation (O. Reg 588/17) requires municipalities
to develop a strategic asset management policy, and an asset management plan and has details around level of
service requirements. It also requires municipalities to consider the impact of climate change to their assets, costs
that may arise from those vulnerabilities and adaptation opportunities.
The Drinking Water Systems regulation (O. Reg 170/03) applies to the water network in the Town of Aurora and
the sewer system is regulated by the Environmental Compliance Approval in Respect of Sewage Works (O. Reg.
208/19).
The road network in the Town of Aurora is regulated by the Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal
Highways Regulation (O. Reg. 239/02)
Design Codes and Standards:
New construct or refurbishment of infrastructure in the Town of Aurora is required to follow the Ontario Building
Code, governed by the Ontario Building Code Act.
The Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards (O. Reg. 61/14) applies to water network in the Town of Aurora.
Guidelines:
The following guidelines are applicable to the different infrastructure types in the Town of Aurora:
ņ Infrastructure Ontario’s Buildings Systems Design Guidelines;
ņ Canadian Water Quality Guideline;
ņ Design Guidelines for Sewage Works; and
ņ Design Guidelines for Drinking-Water Systems.
Provide references.
Land Use Planning:
ņ Town of Aurora Zoning By-law https://www.aurora.ca/en/business-and-development/planning-and-
development-zoning.aspx?_mid_=17542#Comprehensive-Zoning-Bylaw
ņ 2011 – 2031 Aurora Strategic Plan https://www.aurora.ca/en/town-
services/resources/Documents/Publications/Strategic-Plan.pdf
ņ Planning Act https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90p13
ņ Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) https://www.ontario.ca/pps
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ņ Lake Simcoe Protection Plan https://www.ontario.ca/page/lake-simcoe-protection-plan
ņ Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP) https://www.ontario.ca/page/oak-ridges-moraine-
conservation-plan-2017
ņ Town of Aurora Draft 2018 Asset Management Plan
ņ A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (2019)
ņ Provincial Policy Statement (2020)
Laws & By-laws:
ņ Backflow Prevention Bylaw
https://records.aurora.ca/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=17731&dbid=0&repo=Public&cr=1
ņ Respecting Property Standards
https://records.aurora.ca/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=15145&dbid=0&repo=Public
ņ Sewer Use By Law https://records.aurora.ca/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=16705&searchid=7b086c3a-337f-
4827-8465-9a72a5c06366&dbid=0&repo=Public
ņ Amend 330591 Municipal Waterworks Distribution Bylaw
https://records.aurora.ca/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=18012&dbid=0&repo=Public
ņ Discharge of Sewage, Storm Water and Land Drainage Bylaw (Amended 2014) 2014-23
https://www.york.ca/wps/portal/yorkhome/yorkregion/yr/bylaws/dischargeofsewage%2Cstormwaterandland
drainagebylaw(amended2014)/!ut/p/z0/pU8xjsIwEHwLRSSQOK0vQpDWogCCEG1wgxa8cXwkNth7F_L7
84X-GoqRdmZ3RzOgoALl8McaZOsdtomf1PK8k5vddrsX5XFRrIUUR1nmq0IU-
xWUoP4_SA55OKwPBtQdufmwrvZQXYYW-wiVtvHaYDDk60g9GppH9qHrkSmg022CDmhd2owvU-
zIadK5-FzM_rzt1-OhJKird0xPhmoI53F2nInBh1sikS1_j0LjO3rJgUxqmIlXkEy8F-R-
U6ciyskvpMbnlg!!/#.YRauCYhKhPY
ņ Ontario Environmental Protection Act https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90e19
ņ Ontario Water Resources Act https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90o40
Regulations:
ņ Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r17588
ņ Drinking Water Systems https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/030170
ņ Environmental Compliance Approval in Respect of Sewage Works
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r19208
ņ Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways Regulation
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/020239
Design Codes and Standards:
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ņ Ontario Building Code https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/120332
ņ Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/030169
Regulations:
ņ Infrastructure Ontario’s Buildings Systems Design Guidelines https://www.infrastructureontario.ca/Building-
Systems-Design-Guidelines/
ņ Canadian Water Quality Guideline https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-
workplace-health/reports-publications/water-quality/guidelines-canadian-drinking-water-quality-summary-
table.html
ņ Design Guidelines for Sewage Works https://www.ontario.ca/document/design-guidelines-sewage-works-0
ņ Design Guidelines for Drinking-Water Systems https://www.ontario.ca/document/design-guidelines-
drinking-water-systems-0
Comments and Observations
2.7 CONDUCT A SITE VISIT
Conduct a site visit.
If Site Visit Not Conducted – Explain Why and Provide Supporting Information
No site visit will be conducted as this is a desktop assessment. Site-specific information was gathered as part of
the Town Staff interview process.
Based on information gathered to date, conduct interviews with facility owners and operating personnel in
order to field-test and validate initial project definition findings.
To be completed in WS #2.
Examine infrastructure and local geographical features as they may apply to the vulnerability assessment.
To be completed in WS #2.
Additional Comments and Observations
None.
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2.8 ASSESS DATA SUFFICIENCY
Where assumptions are proposed for the assessment, identify these as such and provide a rationale for
their use.
Assumption Rationale
The infrastructure is assumed to have been designed to
the relevant design standards at the time of
construction.
Design drawings will not be reviewed for all Town
infrastructure, but it is required for infrastructure to
follow such standards.
Document where there is insufficient information currently available to proceed with an element of the
assessment.
Insufficient Information Where there is insufficient
information currently available,
identify a process to develop or infill
that data.
Where data cannot be developed,
identify the data gap as a finding in
Step 5 of the Protocol –
Recommendations.
None identified at this time.
Date:
August 13, 2021
Prepared by:
Alice Berry
3 CONCLUSION
WSP is confident to have enough data to carry on to step 2 of the PIEVC protocol. During step 2, a main focus will
be to define climate thresholds that could trigger an interaction with the different components of the infrastructure.
PREPARED BY
Alice Berry M.Sc. Env.
Climate Resilience Analyst
REVIEWED BY
Lisa MacTavish, P.Eng.
Climate Resilience Engineer
Professional Engineers Ontario
Member # 100220877
APPROVED BY
Elise Paré, P.Eng.
Climate Resilience Assessment Qualified Professional
Professional Engineers Ontario
Member #100548246
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Appendix
B-2. Worksheet 2
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WSP Canada Inc.
wsp.com
TECHNICAL MEMO #2
CLIENT: Town of Aurora
PROJECT: Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation
Plan
WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00
SUBJECT: PIEVC Worksheet #2 DATE: 20 August 2021
RECIPIENT: Natalie Kehle, Town of Aurora
FROM: Lisa MacTavish, P.Eng.
1 INTRODUCTION
The Town of Aurora has engaged WSP to conduct a climate change adaptation plan for the infrastructure assets
within the Town. The adaptation plan will be informed by a climate change risk and vulnerability assessment to be
completed using the Public Infrastructure Engineering Vulnerability Committee (PIEVC) Protocol. This technical
memo presents the results of the data gathering and sufficiency (Step 2) of the PIEVC Protocol.
Figure 1 Step 2 flowchart
6WHS
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Town of Aurora
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan
PIEVC Worksheet #2
In this step, WSP defines the infrastructure components assessed, specific climate trends, geographic and
jurisdictional considerations for the climate risk assessment. The data provided to WSP was reviewed and
supplemented by interviews with Town of Aurora staff. In this step, the information required to conduct the
preliminary risk assessment is assembled, and this information, along with professional judgement and Town input,
will form the basis of the likelihood and consequence analysis of the climate risk assessment. Assumptions are
stated, data gaps are identified, data sources, including where professional judgement was used, are provided. The
following section contains the tables required to complete Worksheet #2.
2 WORKSHEET #2
2.1 PREPARE STEP 2 WORKSHEET
Enter Yes or No
a. Use this Worksheet; or
Yes
b. Prepare practitioner specific documentation.
i. Practitioner specific documentation MUST detail each task outlined in
this step of the Protocol.
No
Comments and Observations
The PIEVC worksheet allows the practitioner to detail each task required, thus was chosen by WSP to proceed
with step 2.
2.2 STATE INFRASTRUCTURE COMPONENTS
a. List the major components of the infrastructure that are influenced by climate.
i. Only select those infrastructure components that, in the practitioner’s professional judgment,
are relevant to this assessment.
ii. Where available, review operations incident reports, daily logs and reports to assist in the
identification of infrastructure components with a history that could result in vulnerability and
are relevant to this process.
iii. Interview infrastructure owner’s operators and maintenance staff to identify historical events
that may not be documented or retrievable from databases and evaluate if these events are
relevant to this assessment.
The infrastructure assessed in this study is broken into four major categories as determined by the Town of Aurora,
including facilities (buildings), water infrastructure assets (drinking water and sanitary), linear engineering assets
including roads and storm water management assets, and parks and natural heritage system assets. The
infrastructure components within each of these categories are further broken down as per the 2018 Asset
Management Plan (AMP) and are described below. This study assesses climate risks for each infrastructure type
across the Town, rather than for each individual asset.
The facilities assessed in this study include municipal government, protection services, recreation & cultural
services, and transportation services facilities. The facilities infrastructure components include:
x Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems;
x Building envelope systems;
x Building structural systems;
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x Electrical systems;
x Plumbing systems;
x Hardscaping.
The water infrastructure assets include the sanitary and water networks.
The water network infrastructure includes:
x Water mains;
x Water valves;
x Underground enclosures;
x Fire hydrants;
x Service connections;
x Bulk water filling stations;
x Booster stations.
The sanitary network infrastructure consists of:
x Sewers;
x Maintenance chambers;
x Laterals;
x Equalization tanks;
x Pumping stations.
The linear engineering assets include the road network and the storm water management assets.
The storm water network infrastructure includes:
x Sewers;
x Maintenance chambers;
x Catch basins;
x Laterals;
x Oil grit separators;
x Cleanouts;
x Headwalls;
x Stormwater management ponds;
x Equalization tanks;
x Bridges and culverts.
The road network infrastructure includes:
x Pavement and curbs;
x Pedestrian paths;
x Road luminaires;
x Signage;
x Traffic signals.
The park and natural heritage system asset infrastructure includes:
x Open space and parkland;
x Land associated with municipal facilities;
x Land maintained for environmental purposes;
x Off-road trails;
x Park structures.
b. Provide references.
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Draft Asset Management Plan, Town of Aurora, 2018
Asset Database Listing, Town of Aurora, 2018
Aurora Classification Structure Review V4, Town of Aurora, (no date).
Comments and Observations
The AMP classifies the facilities assets by individual building. For this assessment, professional judgement was
applied to break up the major facility infrastructure systems such that these can be assessed for climate risk, since
these systems will be impacted in a similar way across the Town. Note that the risks to landscaping and municipal
infrastructure assets on the facilities property are addressed by the park and natural heritage & and water asset
categories respectively.
The AMP and other reviewed data do not contain details on the material and type of infrastructure of the facility
systems, therefore professional judgement will be applied to identify climate risks which could be expected to
impact facilities. These risks will be discussed with Town staff in the workshop to confirm these assumptions and
identify any special cases.
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2.3 STATE THE TIME HORIZONS FOR THE ASSESSMENT
a. State
the
period
over
which
the
infrastr
ucture
must
operate
.
The 2018 Asset Management Plan provides information on infrastructure age, useful life and
maintenance schedules for each asset type. The table below presents this information as well
as the asset inventory, value and condition as of December 31, 2017.
Functional Area Asset Type Inventory /Quantity /Extent Financial Accounting Valuation Replacement Cost Valuation Average Asset Age (Years)Estimated Average Useful Life (Years) Estimated Remaining Useful Life (Years) Overall Asset Condition Watermain Water Mains 216.6
km
$56,042,584.77 $203,027,001 23.8 67 43.2 Good
Water Valves 4152
valves
$3,120,616.69 $7,204,581 22.5 30 7.5 Poor
Underground
Enclosures
665
enclosur
es
$2,394,239.77 $6,218,077 22.7 50 27.3 Good
Fire Hydrants 1479
hydrants
$3,994,084.37 $6,980,753 22.5 30 7.5 Fair
Service
Connections
15063
services
$5,366,053.02 $19,111,335 26.4 67 40.6 Fair
Bulk Water Filling
Station
1 station $56,841.52 $ 20 19 -1 Very
Good
Booster Stations 1 station $94,556 $167,384 19.8 30 10.2 Fair Wastewater Sewers 188.9
km
$42,324,148.76 $240,378,285 30.5 67 36.5 Good
Maintenance
Chambers
2778
chamber
s
$14,369,062 $39,556,321 30.1 50 19.9 Fair
Laterals 14445
laterals
$6,213,658.46 $21,906,822 27.7 67 39.3 Good
Equalization
Tanks
2 tanks $290,354.10 $751,217 23 50 27 Good
Pumping Stations 6
stations
$781,600 $1,347,625 15.3 30 14.7 Fair
b. State
the
design
life of
the
infrastr
ucture
compo
nents.
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c. Docum
ent the
mainte
nance
and/ref
urbish
ment
schedu
le for
the
infrastr
ucture
as it
may
apply
to the
useful
service
life of
the
infrastr
ucture.
Stormwater Sewers 217.8
km
$52,462,065.26 $187,206,528 24.9 67 42.1 Good
Maintenance
Chambers
2747
chamber
s
$10,824,153 $27,584,618 25.8 50 24.2 Good
Catchbasins 4951
catch-
basins
$8,444,225.46 $21,949,932 24.2 50 25.8 Fair
Laterals 11010
laterals
$5,399,082 $19,266,201 24.8 67 42.2 Good
Oil Grit
Separators
30
filters
$1,115,573 $1,924,969 10.6 30 19.4 Very
Good
Cleanouts 12
clean-
outs
$5,541.05 $14,121 25 50 25 Very
Good
Headwalls 225
head-
walls
$1,138,420 $2,901,187 24.8 50 25.2 Good
SWM Ponds 64
ponds
$13,539,340 $17,692,402.31 22 25 3 Fair
Equalization
Tanks
32 tanks $2,370,458 $5,647,558 29.6 55 25.4 Fair
Bridges &
Culverts
161
cross-
ings
$6,889,954 $12,293,809 24.3 Inspect-
ed every
2 years
Fair Roads Pavement &
Curbs
193.9
center-
line km
$68,634,324 $121,892,876 22.8 Pave-
ment
inspect-
ed every
3-5
years
Fair
Pedestrian Paths 205.2
km
$10,013,610 $17,726,236 20.8 30 9.2 Poor
Road Luminaires 4813
lumin-
aires
$11,043,075 $16,687,957 17.6 20 2.4 Very
Good
Signage 6918
signs
$387,044 $687,376 22.6 Reflect-
ivity
Test
Conduct
-ed
Annual-
ly
Good
Traffic Signals 16
signal
intersect
-ions
$1,220,172 $1,487,383 20.9 Inspect-
ion
conduct-
ed bi-
annually
(fall and
spring)
Very
Good
d. State
the
useful
service
life
remain
ing in
the
infrastr
ucture
compo
nents.
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7Facilities 21
facilities
and
building
s
$97,526,209.03 $240,888,230.54 28.7 28.3 -0.4 Fair Parking Lots 26
parking
lots
$6,692,987 $16,531,574.23 28.7 27.5 -1.2 Fair Land, Parkland & Land Improvements Ɣ
acres of
combin-
ed open
space
and
parkland
ƔODQG
associa-
ted with
each
Munici-
pal
Facility
ƔODQG
maintain
-ed for
environ-
mental
purpos-
HVƔ
kilome-
ters of
off-road
trails.
$22,773,729 $41,702,132 10.5 28.09 17.59 Good
Comments and Observations
The average age of the infrastructure shown in the table above is as of 2017, which as of the time of this
assessment is four years out of date. This has been considered when selecting the appropriate time scale for this
assessment.
The time scale selected for this assessment is the short term, 2021-2050, since most of the infrastructure assessed
will reach end of life within this time period. Therefore, this assessment will evaluate the climate risk during this
time period, and future climate risk can be assessed at time of equipment upgrade depending on the design
criteria and climate conditions at that time.
2.4 STATE THE GEOGRAPHY
a. List the major features of the local geography that may influence the microclimate of the infrastructure or
impose peripheral risk.
i. Specifically identify hills, valleys, river systems, lakes, ocean frontage that may moderate the climate
parameters considered in the evaluation.
ii. Only select those geographical features that, in the practitioner’s professional judgment, are relevant to
this assessment.
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Please refer to Worksheet #1 for a detailed description of geographical features of the Town of Aurora. Below is an
explanation of how these geographical features may expose the Town to climate risk.
ņ Approximately 40% of the Lake Simcoe watershed is regulated by Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
(LSRCA), including the rivers and watercourses within the Town of Aurora. The yellow areas shown in Figure 2
below are LSRCA regulated, which means they contain environmental significance or feature natural hazards for
the watershed, such as flooding. These areas are particularly concentrated in the north of the Town of Aurora by St
John’s side road where there is a convergence of watercourses, Vandorf Side road, north of Wellington Street and
west of Yonge Street. The latter two areas were also identified during interviews with asset management as areas
with flooding in the past.
Figure 2 Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority Regulated Areas Map – Town of Aurora
ņ Forest fires have not historically occurred in the areas surrounding the Town of Aurora according to the Canadian
National Fire Database. The Town of Aurora is an urban environment; however, it is surrounded by forested land.
Although wildfires are unlikely to occur near the Town, it should be noted that wildfire smoke from nearby or
distant fires in other parts of the province can impact the air quality and may result in health issues.
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Figure 3 Forest fires (>200 ha) recorded in Canada for the 1980-2018 period (adapted from Natural Resources
Canada)
ņ The Town of Aurora is in the zone prone to F2-F5 tornadoes, as shown in the figure below. In 2009, an F2 tornado
caused damaged to more than 650 homes in Vaughan, approximately 20km from the Town of Aurora
(https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/residents-recall-devastation-10-years-after-tornado-rips-through-vaughan-1.4556496).
Figure 4 Map showing the F0-F1 and F2-F5 tornado prone areas as well as a ‘rare occurrence’ area, with all
known Canadian tornadoes from 1792 to 2009 superimposed for comparison (adapted from Sills et al, 2012)
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ņ Lightning activity is noted to be in the 1-2 range (flashes per square kilometer, per year) from 1999 to 2018, as
shown in the figure below:
Figure 5 The average lighting flash density (flashes per square kilometre, per year) in Eastern Canada (1999 to
2018) (adapted from Government of Canada, Environmental and Natural Resources 2016)
b. Provide references.
Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, 2019. Regulation maps. Retrieved August 10th from
https://maps.lsrca.on.ca/EH5Viewer/index.html?viewer=LSRCARegulations
Natural Resources Canada, NA. Canadian National Fire Database. Retrieved August 10th from Canadian
National Fire Database https://cwfis.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/ha/nfdb?type=poly&year=9999
Sills et al. (2012). Using tornado, lightning and population data to identify tornado prone areas in Canada.
26th Conference on Severe Local Storms. Retrieved August 10th from:
http://www.yorku.ca/pat/research/dsills/papers/SLS26/SLS26_manuscript_TornadoProne_FINAL.pdf
Government of Canada, Environment and Natural Resources (2016, June 21) Map of Canada’s lightning
hotspots. Retrieved August 10th from https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-
change/services/lightning/statistics/maps-hotspots.html
Comments and Observations
The impact that these specific geographical conditions have on the climate risk to the infrastructure will be discussed
further in Worksheet 3.
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2.5 STATE SPECIFIC JURISDICTIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
a. As applicable, itemize: b. Provide references.
Jurisdictions that have
direct control/influence
on the infrastructure;
The Town of Aurora owns and
operates the following infrastructure
systems within the municipal
boundaries:
ņ Municipal roads, bridges, culverts
and walkways;
ņ Municipal government,
protection, recreation and cultural
services facilities;
ņ Municipal transportation services
and related infrastructure;
ņ Parks;
ņ Drinking water and sanitary water
distribution and pumping
systems;
ņ Stormwater infrastructure.
ņ Town of Aurora (2018). Draft Asset
Management Plan.
Sections of laws and
bylaws that are relevant
to the infrastructure;
The Town of Aurora has the following
bylaws in place which apply to the
infrastructure in the Town:
ņ Backflow Prevention Bylaw –
20191022 – 621319;
ņ Respecting Property Standards –
19990623 – 404499P;
ņ Sewer Use By Law – 20130611 –
551813 (2);
ņ Amend 330591 Municipal
Waterworks Distribution Bylaw –
20210330- 632221.
The Regional Municipality of York
has the following bylaws which apply
to the Town of Aurora Infrastructure:
ņ Discharge of Sewage, Storm
Water and Land Drainage Bylaw
(Amended 2014) 2014-23.
ņ Town of Aurora (2020). Frequently
requested by-laws. Retrieved August
10th, 2021 from
https://www.aurora.ca/en/your-
government/frequently-requested-
bylaws.aspx
ņ York Region. (2020). By-laws.
Retrieved August 10th, 2021 from
https://www.york.ca/wps/portal/yorkh
ome/yorkregion/yr/bylaws/!ut/p/z1/jZ
BBb4MwDIV_yw4ci92sLdFuEdMW
YBWVqmkslylMEJAoQSFt1P36RW
0vk1Za32x9z-
_ZIKAA0ctDq6RtdS8733-
K1VfCXhPOM0zzBY2RYc5SElGkW
QQfJwCvFEMQ9-
gnADG9Pr1l4C8gZh2vFYhB2mbW9
rWGojx20o3eXZz0hCxWfB5jijynmL
xEm-Uz5XOMlzeAjFyA6Yiq0-
X5m6wvH6nPYqq6MpUJ98aPG2uH
8SnAAJ1zodJadVX4rXcB_idp9Gih-
EvCsHsvft7qbTIT5dGxh1-
2DCko/dz/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQS
Eh/#.YRLh94hKhPY
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a. As applicable, itemize: b. Provide references.
The Town of Aurora is in the province
of Ontario and the following laws
therefore apply:
ņ Ontario Water Resources Act,
R.S.O. 1990, c.O.40;
ņ Building Code Act, 1992, S.O.
1992, c.23;
ņ Municipal Act 2001, S.O. 2001,
c.25;
ņ Lake Simcoe Protection Act,
1992, S.O 1993, c.23;
ņ Oak Ridges Moraine
Conservation Act, 2001, S.O.
2001, c. 31.
ņ Ontario (2020). E-Laws.
https://www.ontario.ca/laws?search=w
ater&filteroption=current&filterstate%
5B%5D=current&filteryear=&source_
type%5B%5D=public&source_type%
5B%5D=regulation&pit_date=&filtert
ype=Statute&sort=relevance&sort_lett
er=
Sections of regulations
that are relevant to the
infrastructure;
Drinking water systems. O. Reg.
170/03
Environmental compliance approval
in respect of sewage works. O. Reg.
208/19.
Asset Management Planning for
Municipal Infrastructure. O. Reg.
588/17
ņ Ontario (2020). E-Laws.
https://www.ontario.ca/laws?search=w
ater&filteroption=current&filterstate%
5B%5D=current&filteryear=&source_
type%5B%5D=public&source_type%
5B%5D=regulation&pit_date=&filtert
ype=Statute&sort=relevance&sort_lett
er=
Standards that are
relevant to the design,
operation and
maintenance of the
infrastructure;
Ontario Building Code. O. Reg.
332/12
Ontario Drinking Water Quality
Standards. O. Reg. 61/14
Performance Standards. O. Reg.
260/08
ņ Ontario (2020). E-Laws.
https://www.ontario.ca/laws?search=w
ater&filteroption=current&filterstate%
5B%5D=current&filteryear=&source_
type%5B%5D=public&source_type%
5B%5D=regulation&pit_date=&filtert
ype=Statute&sort=relevance&sort_lett
er=
Guidelines that are
relevant to the design,
operation and
maintenance of the
infrastructure; and
ņ Infrastructure Ontario’s Buildings
Systems Design Guidelines
ņ Canadian Water Quality
Guideline
ņ Design Guidelines for Sewage
Works
ņ Design Guidelines for Drinking-
Water Systems
ņ Infrastructure Ontario (2020).
Standards and Guidelines.
https://www.infrastructureontario.ca/S
tandards-and-Guidelines/
ņ Ontario (2020). Water management:
policies, guidelines, provincial water
quality objectives.
https://www.ontario.ca/page/water-
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a. As applicable, itemize: b. Provide references.
management-policies-guidelines-
provincial-water-quality-objectives
ņ Ontario (2020). Design Guidelines for
Sewage Works.
https://www.ontario.ca/document/desi
gn-guidelines-sewage-works-0
ņ Ontario (2020). Design Guidelines for
Drinking-water Systems.
https://www.ontario.ca/document/desi
gn-guidelines-drinking-water-systems-
0
Infrastructure
owner/operator
administrative
processes and policies
as they apply to the
infrastructure.
Infrastructure is maintained and
replaced as per asset-specific
schedule, as detailed in the Town of
Aurora Asset Management Plan.
ņ Town of Aurora (2018). Draft Asset
Management Plan.
Comments and Observations
In Ontario, municipalities are responsible for maintaining local infrastructure. This assessment considers only the
infrastructure owned and maintained by the Town of Aurora, therefore does not evaluate regional and provincial
infrastructure and its design, operation and maintenance details.
2.6 STATE OTHER POTENTIAL CHANGES THAT MAY AFFECT THE
INFRASTRUCTURE
a. Identify and document other factors that can affect the design, operation, and maintenance of the
infrastructure:
i. Document changes in use pattern that
increase/decrease the capacity of the
infrastructure.
All expansion activities are scheduled in the 10-Year
Capital Investment Plan.
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ii. Document operation and maintenance
practices that increase/decrease the capacity
or useful life of the infrastructure.
The Asset Management Plan for the Town of Aurora
sets out the monitoring regime for each infrastructure
component. The outcomes of the monitoring then
inform the required rehabilitation/renewal in the 10-
year capital plan.
iii. Document changes in management policy
that affect the load pattern on the
infrastructure.
WSP is not aware of upcoming changes to
management policy which would affect the results of
this assessment, however continued expansion and
development will increase the demand on Town
infrastructure.
iv. Document changes in laws, regulations and
standards that affect the load pattern on the
infrastructure.
The design of infrastructure is assumed to comply with
the most recent applicable code. Subsequent
infrastructure rehabilitations or upgrades are assumed
to meet design criteria in place at the time.
Comments and Observations
The Town will continue to grow and develop as per the 10-Year Capital Investment Plan, however due to the
scale of this assessment, only current infrastructure was assessed. It can be expected that future infrastructure will
follow similar operation, maintenance and design standards as the existing infrastructure, and therefore it should
also have similar climate risks to those identified in this assessment, unless designed with future climate
conditions in mind.
2.7 IDENTIFY RELEVANT CLIMATE PARAMETERS
List the relevant climate parameters associated with the
design, development, and management of the
infrastructure.
State the climate information source(s).
Temperature:
ņ Average annual temperature;
ņ Average maximum summer temperature;
ņ Average minimum winter temperature;
ņ Highest annual maximum temperature;
ņ Lowest annual minimum temperature;
ņ Annual heating degree-days;
ņ Annual cooling degree-days;
ņ Annual freeze-thaw cycles;
ņ Winter freeze-thaw cycles;
ņ Number of heat waves;
ņ Daily and monthly data, Environment and Climate
Change Canada, Toronto Buttonville A weather
station (ID 615HMAK);
ņ Climate Normals 1981-2010, Environment and
Climate Change Canada, Toronto Buttonville A
weather station (ID 615HMAK);
ņ Climate Atlas of Canada, Newmarket small grid
square;
ņ IDF_CC Tool, Western University, Toronto
Buttonville A weather station (ID 615HMAK);
ņ Canada’s Changing Climate Report (2019),
Environment and Climate Change Canada;
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ņ Average length of heat waves. ņ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
reports on global climate change projections;
ņ Scientific literature. Precipitation:
ņ Average total annual precipitation;
ņ Average annual precipitation as rain;
ņ Average annual precipitation as snow;
ņ Number of days with freezing rain;
ņ Extreme precipitation: IDF curves over 15 minutes
and 24 hours, return periods of 10, 50 and 100 years;
ņ Maximum snowfall over 24 hours;
ņ Snow cover and snow depth.
Storm activity:
ņ Maximum hourly wind speed;
ņ Maximum wind gust speed;
ņ Cloud-to-ground lightning flashes.
Other:
ņ River or creek flooding;
ņ Wildfires;
ņ Tornadoes;
Comments and Observations
The list of climate parameters will be adjusted following the selection of infrastructure threshold values, as it might
be impossible to identify thresholds for some of these parameters, and some of these parameters may not directly
influence designs or operations of identified infrastructure.
Toronto Buttonville A has been chosen as the weather station for this assessment as it is the closest station to the
Town with a long enough timeseries to assess IDF curves. Using this station means the climate assessment can
consistently use the same weather station throughout the assessment.
2.8 IDENTIFY INFRASTRUCTURE THRESHOLD VALUES
For each climate parameter selected, identify a threshold value above which, or below which, the infrastructure
performance will be affected.
Threshold values may be based on:
Codes;
Standards;
Engineering Guidelines;
Operating or Maintenance Procedures;
Professional Judgement; and/or
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Other, as appropriate.
As appropriate, a number of different thresholds may be identified for a specific climate parameter based on varying
degrees of infrastructure response arising from parameter values changing over a broader range.
In such cases, each parameter-threshold pair would be treated as a separate event within the context of
the assessment.
Threshold Value a. Clearly document the
source of the threshold
value.
b. Provide justification for
the threshold value
selected.
Comments and Observations
The infrastructure threshold identification will be performed as part of the next step of this assessment.
2.9 IDENTIFY POTENTIAL CUMULATIVE OR SYNERGISTIC EFFECTS
Review the selected climate parameters and threshold values and evaluate the potential cumulative impact of
combining or sequencing weather events and/or climate trends to assess the possibility of these combined events
yielding a higher impact compound event.
Include relevant cumulative or synergistic events on the list of climate parameters carried forward for risk
assessment.
i. The practitioner must exercise professional judgment in establishing conceivable combined or
synergistic events to avoid assessing multiple, improbable, combinations.
Cumulative and/or Synergistic
Event Threshold Value Justification
Comments and Observations
The cumulative and synergistic effects identification will be performed as part of the next step of this assessment.
2.10 STATE CLIMATE BASELINE
Historical Climate Value Reference
Average annual temperature
(1976-2005) 6.8 °C ņ Environment and Climate Change Canada
(2020b). Canadian Climate Normals 1981-
2010 Station Data, Toronto Buttonville A
weather station (ID 615HMAK) Average maximum summer
temperature 24.9 °C
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Historical Climate Value Reference
(1976-2005) ņ Environment and Climate Change Canada
(2020a) Historical Data, Toronto Buttonville
A weather station (ID 615HMAK)
ņ Prairie Climate Centre (2019) Climate Atlas
of Canada, version 2.0, Newmarket small
grid square. Retrieved from:
https://climateatlas.ca/
ņ Western University (2021) The IDF_CC
tool, Computerized Tool for the Development
of Intensity-Duration-Frequency Curves
under Climate Change – Version 5.0,
Toronto Buttonville A weather station (ID
615HMAK). Retrieved from:
https://www.idf-cc-uwo.ca
ņ Government of Canada (2019) Lightning
activity in Canadian cities. The baseline
value is for Vaughan which is approximately
20km from the Town of Aurora. Retrieved
from:
https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-
climate-
change/services/lightning/statistics/activity-
canadian-cities.html
ņ Cheng et al. (2012). Possible impacts of
climate change on extreme weather events at
local scale in south-central Canada, Climate
Change, 112, 963-979. DOI 10.1007/s10584-
011-0252-0
Average minimum winter temperature
(1976-2005) -10.3 °C
Highest annual maximum temperature
(1976-2005) 32.8 °C
Lowest annual minimum temperature
(1976-2005) -26.9 °C
Annual number of heating degree-days
(1976-2005) 4296
Annual number of cooling degree-days
(1976-2005) 217.2
Annual number of freeze-thaw cycles
(1976-2005) 83.7
Number of winter freeze-thaw cycles
(1976-2005) 35.5
Average number of heat waves (>30qC)
(1976-2005) 1.2
Average length of heat waves (>30qC)
(1976-2005) 2.7
Average total annual precipitation
(1976-2005) 821 mm
Average annual precipitation as rain
(1981-2010) 717.4 mm
Average annual precipitation as snow
(1981-2010) 142.6 cm
Number of days with freezing rain
(1958-2001) 2 - 5
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Historical Climate Value Reference
IDF 15 minutes 1:10 (1986-2016) 23.32 mm
IDF 24 hours 1:10 (1986-2016) 72.60 mm
IDF 24 hours 1:50 (1986-2016) 95.28 mm
IDF 24 hours 1:100 (1986-2016) 104.87 mm
Average maximum daily precipitation
(1976-2005) 39 mm
Annual number of cloud-to-ground
lightning flashes
(1999-2018)
3,021
Total number of days with wind gust
speed > 110 km/h since 1986
(1986-2015)
5
Annual number of days with
precipitation as snow > 15 cm +
maximum gust speed > 50 km/h
(1986-2015)
0.4
Annual number of days with
precipitation as rain > 5 mm +
maximum gust speed > 50 km/h
(1986-2015)
7.8
Annual number of days with
precipitation as rain > 5 mm +
occurrence of freeze-thaw cycle
(1986-2015)
8.6
Historic Extreme Weather Event Value Reference
Extreme maximum temperature
recorded
(1981-2010)
37.8 °C
ņ Environment and Climate Change Canada
(2020b). Canadian Climate Normals 1981-
2010 Station Data, Toronto Buttonville A
weather station (ID 615HMAK)
ņ Environment and Climate Change Canada
(2020a). Historical Data, Toronto
Extreme minimum temperature
recorded
(1981-2010)
-35.2 °C
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Historical Climate Value Reference
Extreme daily precipitation as rain
(1981-2010) 80.3 mm
Buttonville A weather station (ID
615HMAK)
ņ Natural Resources Canada (n.d.). Canadian
Wildland Fire Information System, Fire
Weather Normals. Retrieved from:
https://cwfis.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/ha/fwnormals
Extreme daily precipitation as snow
(1981-2010) 37.4 cm
Extreme snow depth
(1981-2010) 70 cm
Maximum hourly wind speed recorded
(1981-2010) 80 km/h
Maximum wind gust speed recorded
(1981-2010) 135 km/h
1981-2010 mean fire weather index
(numeric rating of fire intensity and
danger, ranging from 0-30+). The
highest monthly value is used.
5 – 10
Comments and Observations
This climate baseline will be used to inform some infrastructure climate thresholds and climate probability scores
as relevant.
2.11 STATE THE CHANGING CLIMATE ASSUMPTIONS
a. Assess the relevancy and applicability of observed global, regional or site-specific changing climate trends
with respect to the infrastructure.
i. Document how these trends influence the infrastructure.
Trend Influence
Mean annual average temperature: significant increase Could lead to an increase in likelihood of record hot
weather, discomfort of occupants, staff and road users,
deformation of material, increase in energy and water
consumption, and water consumption
Mean summer maximum temperature: significant
increase
Could lead to an increase in likelihood of record hot
weather, discomfort of occupants, staff and road users,
deformation of material, increase in energy and water
consumption, and water consumption
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Mean winter minimum temperature: significant
increase
Could lead to less energy consumption, decrease in
depth of frozen ground
Extreme maximum temperature: insignificant increase Could lead to an increase in likelihood of record hot
weather, discomfort of occupants, staff and road users,
deformation of material, increase in energy and water
consumption, and water consumption
Extreme minimum temperature: significant increase Could lead to less energy consumption, decrease in
depth of frozen ground
Total annual rain: no trend Could lead to more load on structures, more moisture,
more pressure on the stormwater network, more
disruption to the road network
Total snowfall: no trend Could lead to less load on structures, less melt during
spring, less disruption to the road network
Heating degree-day: significant decrease Could lead to less energy consumption
Cooling degree-day: significant increase Could lead to more energy consumption, and
discomfort
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Comments and Observations
The impacts of these trends on the infrastructure will be described in Worksheet 3.
b. Where appropriate, identify incremental changes to the Climate Baseline conditions based on the trends
identified in (a) above.
Incremental Change Influence
Mean annual average temperature: significant increase + 0.02 °C/year from 1950-2013
+ 0.04 °C/year from 1980-2013
Mean summer maximum temperature: significant
increase
+ 0.01 °C/year from 1950-2013
+ 0.04 °C/year from 1980-2013
Mean winter minimum temperature: significant
increase
+ 0.04 °C/year from 1950-2013
+ 0.05 °C/year from 1980-2013
Extreme maximum temperature: insignificant increase + 0.01 °C/year from 1950-2013
+ 0.07 °C/year from 1980-2013
Extreme minimum temperature: significant increase + 0.03 °C/year from 1950-2013
+ 0.14 °C/year from 1980-2013
Total annual rain: no trend No trend from 1950-2013
No trend from 1980-2013
Total snowfall: no trend No trend from 1950-2013
No trend from 1980-2013
Heating degree-day: significant decrease -6.4 HDD/year from 1950-2013
-12.8 HDD/year from 1980-2013
Cooling degree-day: insignificant increase +1.2 CDD/year from 1950-2013
+2.0 CDD/year from 1980-2013
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Comments and Observations
Data from ECCC Toronto Buttonville A weather station (ID 615HMAK), Climate Atlas of Canada (Newmarket
small grid square).
Two trends have been presented above to illustrate that climate change has been accelerating during the last
decades.
c. Where appropriate, identify incremental changes to the Climate Baseline conditions based on sensitivity
analysis.
i. Increase or decrease Climate Baseline conditions by percentages selected based on the
practitioner’s professional judgement.
ii. Provide written justification/substantiation for the assumptions and incremental values used in
the sensitivity analysis.
Incremental Change Justification
Comments and Observations
Sensitivity analysis were not deemed necessary, as this would be especially useful for changes where a precise
level could have negative impacts, such as sea level rise, where a sensitivity analysis with projections at 0.5, 1,
1.5 and 2 m are useful in terms of risk assessment.
d. Where appropriate, use surrogate information from other geographic areas to respond to identified data gaps
and uncertainties.
i. Document the source of the infill data.
ii. Provide written justification/substantiation for using the infill data.
Incremental Change Justification
Freezing rain: decrease in the number of events in
November, March and April (- 10-15% by 2050, - 10-
15% by 2080)
Cheng et al. (2012). Possible impacts of climate
change on extreme weather events at local scale in
south-central Canada, Climate Change, 112, 963-979.
DOI 10.1007/s10584-011-0252-0
Freezing rain: increase in the number of events in
December, January and February (+35-45% by 2050,
+35-55% by 2080)
Cheng et al. (2012). Possible impacts of climate
change on extreme weather events at local scale in
south-central Canada, Climate Change, 112, 963-979.
DOI 10.1007/s10584-011-0252-0
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Number of lightning strikes: increase by 12% per qC of
global warming
Romps et al. (2014). Projected increase in lightning
strikes in the United States due to global warming,
Science, 346(6211), 851-854. DOI
10.1126/science.1259100
Snow cover: 5%-7.5% decrease per decade by 2050 Derksen et al. (2019). Changes in snow, ice, and
permafrost across Canada; Chapter 5 in Canada’s
Changing Climate Report, (ed.) E. Bush and D.S.
Lemmen, Government of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario,
p.194-260
Number of days with hourly wind speed > 90 km/h per
year: +250% by 2050, +200% by 2080.
Cheng et al. (2014). Possible impacts of climate
change on wind gusts under downscaled future climate
conditions: update for Canada, Journal of Climate, 7,
1255-1270. DOI 10.1175/JCLI-D-13-00020.1
Number of days with wind gust speed > 90 km/h per
year: +30% by 2050, +15% by 2080
Cheng et al. (2014). Possible impacts of climate
change on wind gusts under downscaled future climate
conditions: update for Canada, Journal of Climate, 7,
1255-1270. DOI 10.1175/JCLI-D-13-00020.1
Change in hourly wind pressure for Ontario: +8.5%
[-0.8%; 18.6%]
Government of Canada (2020). Climate-Resilient
Buildings and Core Public Infrastructure: an
assessment of the impact of climate change on climatic
design data in Canada. Consulted online [November
3rd, 2020]: https://climate-
scenarios.canada.ca/index.php?page=buildings-report
Expected decrease in solar radiation for North America:
1% per decade
Wild, M., Folini, D., Henschel, F., Fischer, N., &
Müller, B. (2015). Projections of long-term changes in
solar radiation based on CMIP5 climate models and
their influence on energy yields of photovoltaic systems.
Solar Energy, 116, 12-24.
Comments and Observations
Despite the lack of available projection data for these indicators, the scientific literature provides trends that can
be useful in the following steps of the Protocol.
e. Where appropriate, arbitrarily define changing climate assumptions or predictions.
i. Provide written justification/substantiation for using the assumptions.
Incremental Change Justification
Increase in rain on snow events As winter climate warms, the temperature is projected
to oscillate around 0 °C more often, which may cause
an increased variation in the precipitation type. Days
with snow followed by rain in the next 24 hours may
therefore be more frequent.
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Number of days with > 15 cm of snow: increase by
2050, decrease by 2080.
The annual number of days with > 15 cm of snow in
the town of Aurora is approximately 1.2 per year
between 1986 and 2015. As precipitation intensity is
expected to increase and winter temperature increases,
projections show an increase in annual snowstorms in
the first half of the 21st century. By 2080, it is expected
that temperature may have risen sufficiently, and the
ratio of liquid/solid winter precipitation may be high
enough for the number of major snowstorms to
decrease.
Comments and Observations
No comment.
f. Where appropriate, employ regional climate change models to project changing climate effects in the region
of the infrastructure.
ii. Review the basis and basic assumptions of the model(s).
iii. Provide written justification/substantiation for using the model in the evaluation.
Incremental Change1 Justification
Mean January daily minimum temperature
ņ Baseline: -12.1 °C [-16.5; -7.6]
ņ 2021-2050: -9.1 °C [-13.9; -4.3]
ņ 2051-2080: -6.1 °C [-10.8; -1.6]
Good climate modelling outputs are now readily
available. They provide the best source of information
regarding what the future should look like.
The baseline is defined by modelled data from 1976 to
2005.
Mean July daily maximum temperature
ņ Baseline: 26.1 °C [24.1; 28.2]
ņ 2021-2050: 28.4 °C [26.1; 30.7]
ņ 2051-2080: 30.8 °C [28.0; 33.5]
Mean maximum daily summer temperature
ņ Baseline: 24.9 °C [23.5; 26.3]
ņ 2021-2050: 29.4 °C [25.4; 28.9]
ņ 2051-2080: 29.4 °C [27.2; 31.6]
Mean minimum daily winter temperature
1 Numbers in bracket are the 10th and 90th percentiles of model outputs
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ņ Baseline: -10.3 °C [-13.2; -7.4]
ņ 2021-2050: -7.6 °C [-10.8; -4.4]
ņ 2051-2080: -4.8 °C [-8.1; -1.7]
Extreme annual maximum temperature
ņ Baseline: 32.8 °C [30.8; 34.8]
ņ 2021-2050: 35.2 °C [32.6; 37.8]
ņ 2051-2080: 37.7 °C [34.8; 41.1]
Extreme annual minimum temperature
ņ Baseline: -26.9 °C [-31.7; -22.2]
ņ 2021-2050: -23.1 °C [-28.2; -18.0]
ņ 2051-2080: -18.8 °C [-23.9; -13.4]
Number of heating degree-days
ņ Baseline: 4296 [3944; 4662]
ņ 2021-2050: 3699 [3264; 4142]
ņ 2051-2080: 3148 [2640; 3571]
Number of cooling degree-days
ņ Baseline: 217.2 [134.2; 306.9]
ņ 2021-2050: 404.5 [267.9; 550.2]
ņ 2051-2080: 647.0 [445.3; 876.2]
Number of heat waves (> 30 °C)
ņ Baseline: 1.2 [0.0; NaN]
ņ 2021-2050: 3.6 [1.1; 6.4]
ņ 2051-2080: 6.0 [3.3; 9.0]
Average length of heat waves (> 30 °C)
ņ Baseline: 2.7 days [0.0; 5.7]
ņ 2021-2050: 4.9 days [2.4; 7.6]
ņ 2051-2080: 7.4 days [4.3; 11.7]
Annual freeze-thaw cycles
ņ Baseline: 83.7 [69.2; 98.0]
ņ 2021-2050: 77.7 [62.9; 92.9]
ņ 2051-2080: 68.5 [52.9; 83.0]
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Winter freeze-thaw cycles
ņ Baseline: 31.0 [21.8; 40.4]
ņ 2021-2050: 36.5 [27.4; 46.3]
ņ 2051-2080: 38.5 [29.4; 47.7]
Annual precipitation
ņ Baseline: 821 mm [679; 967]
ņ 2021-2050: 873 mm [709; 1048]
ņ 2051-2080: 897 mm [730; 1081]
Climate modelling of annual precipitation allows to
illustrate that annual trends are not conclusive, but an
increase in the interannual variability of the
precipitation is expected.
Winter precipitation
ņ Baseline: 179 mm [125; 235]
ņ 2021-2050: 197 mm [137; 267]
ņ 2051-2080:211 mm [147; 283]
15-min 1:10 precipitation
ņ Baseline: 23.32 mm
ņ 2021-2050: 24.82 mm [23.89; 27.12]
ņ 2051-2080: 25.95 mm [22.37; 27.97]
Climate modelling of daily to sub-daily extreme events
comes with high uncertainty in the representation of
extreme precipitation patterns, as projections are based
on the daily outputs of global climate models, spatially
downscaled to a cell of approximately 10 km x 10 km.
However, every model projects an increase in the
magnitude of short-duration extreme precipitation.
Even if there is a low confidence in the number, there
is a high likelihood to observe an increase.
As there is considerable uncertainty surrounding the
projections of extreme precipitation as a result of
climate change, it is beneficial to consider other
sources of projection data. The CSA PLUS 4013:19
standard on the development, interpretation and use of
rainfall IDF information states that a 7% increase can
be expected for every degree of warming. This has
been applied to the increase in mean annual
temperature to provide an alternative set of projections
for mean and extreme precipitation, although the
projections are the same for each precipitation duration
as its based on the same temperature change.
It is recommended to use the most conservative
projections data when carrying out flooding modelling
or planning exercises to ensure a worst-case scenario is
considered. The percentages from calculations using
CSA’s proxy, shown on the left, should therefore be
used.
24-hr 1:10 precipitation
ņ Baseline: 72.60 mm
ņ 2021-2050: 75.06 mm [72.01; 82.64]
ņ 2051-2080: 78.23 mm [67.43; 85.37]
24-hr 1:50 precipitation
ņ Baseline: 95.28 mm
ņ 2021-2050: 108.23 mm [97.11; 120.02]
ņ 2051-2080: 117.63 mm [100.45; 134.46]
24-hr 1:100 precipitation
ņ Baseline: 104.87 mm
ņ 2021-2050: 123.24 mm [109.36; 141.57]
ņ 2051-2080: 133.52 mm [110.96; 159.16]
Mean and extreme precipitation statistics (CSA, 2019)
ņ 2021-2050: +16% [+14%; +18%]
ņ 2051-2080: +34% [+30%; +39%]
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Comments and Observations
Projections under the passive emission scenario (RCP8.5), as this is the most conservative, and currently a likely
scenario.
Sources:
ņ CRIM – Computer Research Institute of Montreal (2019). Climate Data Canada. Retrieved from:
https://climatedata.ca/
ņ PCC – Prairie Climate Centre (2019). Climate Atlas of Canada, version 2.0, Newmarket small grid square.
Retrieved from: https://climateatlas.ca/
ņ Western University (2021). The IDF_CC tool, Computerized Tool for the Development of Intensity-
Duration-Frequency Curves under Climate Change – Version 5.0, Toronto Buttonville A weather station (ID
615HMAK). Retrieved from: https://www.idf-cc-uwo.ca
ņ CSA Plus 4013-2019 Technical Guide: Development, Interpretation and Use of Rainfall Intensity-Duration-
Frequency (IDF) Information: Guideline for Canadian Water Resources Practitioners. Retrieved from:
https://webstore.ansi.org/standards/csa/csaplus40132019
2.12 ESTABLISH CHANGING CLIMATE PROBABILITY SCORES
a. From Figure 1, choose Method A or Method B to define probability
scores.
i. Record in project documentation the Method that was used.
ii. Use the same method for all probabilities used in the
evaluation.
Method
Enter Either A or B
Method A will be conducted in
the next phase of this
assessment.
b. Choose the changing climate probability scoring approach. Either:
i. Assign scores for the probability of climate parameters
changing over the time horizon of the assessment such that
the infrastructure threshold is triggered.
If this approach is selected, go to Task 2.12.c
Method
Enter Either Yes or No
Yes, probability scores will be
provided in the next phase of
this assessment.
OR:
i. Assign scores for the probability of climate parameters triggering
infrastructure thresholds in the baseline climate and assign scores for
the probability that climate parameters will trigger the infrastructure
thresholds in the future climate. Changing climate impacts are
assessed from the difference between the two scores.
If this approach is selected, go to Task 2.12.d
Method
Enter Either Yes or No
No.
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2.13 IDENTIFY THE DATA GAPS
Review the data set developed in Sections 2.1 through 2.12.
a. For data selected for the evaluation, assess and comment on:
Data gaps;
Climate
ņ Confidence is low on climate change projections regarding
wind, snow and lightning given the complexity of these
indicators. We therefore rely on studies conducted on larger
geographic zones given the lack of site-specific data.
ņ There is a lack of consensus regarding the impact of climate
change on the frequency and magnitude of tornado regime.
Data quality;
ņ Data from Environment Canada is of high quality.
ņ Data from the Climate Atlas of Canada is of high quality for
trends and low quality for extreme discrete events.
ņ Climate change IDF curves have a high degree of uncertainty,
especially with respect to short duration, high intensity events.
Data accuracy;
ņ There are high uncertainties with climate change projections
(natural variability and inter-model spread). However, climate
change projections provided by climate model ensembles such
as the one used in this assessment are the best tool to evaluate
how climate conditions will evolve in the coming decades.
The applicability of
trends;
ņ Trends are applicable.
Reliability of selected
climate model(s);
ņ The use of ensemble modeling increases the reliability of
climate models and is in agreement with the best practice
regarding dealing with climate change uncertainty.
ņ Every source uses reliable models that are recognized as valid
by the scientific community.
Reliability of changing
climate assumptions or
scenarios; and
ņ RCP8.5 is the emission scenario that represents business as
usual, or the ongoing trend in anthropogenic emissions.
Other factors.
Comments and Observations
Despite the data gaps identified above, we can move forward with the risk assessment, using professional
judgement where needed.
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2.14 CONDUCT A SITE VISIT
Conduct a site visit.
If Site Visit Not Conducted – Explain Why and Provide Supporting Information
No site visit will be conducted as this is a desktop assessment. Site-specific information was gathered as part of
the Town Staff interview process.
Based on information gathered to date, conduct interviews with facility owners and operating personnel in
order to field-test and validate initial project definition findings.
The town staff interviews resulted in some key findings relevant for this study, as summarized below:
ņ Higher temperatures in the winter means that Emerald Ash Borer insect continues to be an issue for plant life
throughout the year as they are able to survive the winter conditions.
ņ Dry conditions mean that watering of plants and landscaping must be undertaken, particularly during the
earlier stages of growth.
ņ Temperature control in arenas to keep the ice the right temperature requires more effort during warmer
winters.
ņ Heat waves put pressure on the HVAC systems and result in condensation causing mould and other issues in
facilities.
ņ Roof leaking in facilities has occurred when temperatures increase from low to high, ice is present on the
roof and roof drains are blocked.
ņ Stream flooding and erosion has been an important issue historically and will likely continue to be an issue.
ņ Basement flooding has also been a key issue historically, most noticeably in June 2018 and December 2020,
and could continue to be an issue in the future.
ņ Freeze-thaw cycles have caused potholes in the roads and sidewalk heaving and has noticeably become more
common in recent years.
ņ Streetlights have been damaged in high windstorms twice in the last four to five years which results in
significant financial implications as well as a safety risk.
Examine infrastructure and local geographical features as they may apply to the vulnerability assessment.
As discussed in Section 2.4.
Additional Comments and Observations
Findings from interviews will inform the risk assessment in the next step.
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PREPARED BY
Alice Berry M.Sc. Env.
Climate Resilience Analyst
REVIEWED BY
Lisa MacTavish, P.Eng.
Climate Resilience Engineer
Professional Engineers Ontario
Member # 100220877
APPROVED BY
Yann Chavaillaz, Ph.D.
Climate Science Technical Lead
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Unit 500 119 Spadina Avenue Toronto, ON, Canada M5V 2L1 T: +1 416 260-0387 F: +1 416 260-3028 wsp.com TOWN OF AURORA CLIMATE ADAPTATION PLAN – WORKSHEET 2 – APPENDIX A Climate Hazard Threshold Value Historical values Short-Term Projections (2021-2050)1 Will the Interaction Change Over the Time Horizon of the Assessment? (Y/N) More-Same-Less (+/0/-) Projected Change in Magnitude (H/M/L) Projected Change in Frequency (H/M/L) Robustness of Forecast (H/M/L) Probability Score (1-7) Low winter temperature Mean January daily minimum temperature < -12.1 °C -12.1 °C [-16.5; -7.6] -9.1 °C [-13.9; -4.3] Y - M L H 3 High summer temperature Mean July daily maximum temperature > 26.1 °C 26.1 °C [24.1; 28.2] 28.4 °C [26.1; 30.7] Y + M M H 4 1Numbers correspond to mean projections and, in brackets, to the 10th and 90th percentiles of the modelled distribution. Page 146 of 202
Page 2 Climate Hazard Threshold Value Historical values Short-Term Projections (2021-2050)1 Will the Interaction Change Over the Time Horizon of the Assessment? (Y/N) More-Same-Less (+/0/-) Projected Change in Magnitude (H/M/L) Projected Change in Frequency (H/M/L) Robustness of Forecast (H/M/L) Probability Score (1-7) Heat waves Number of heat waves (3 consecutive days above 30 ºC) > 1.2 1.2 [0.0; NaN] 3.6 [1.1; 6.4] Y + H H H 5 HDDs Heating Degree Days (HDDs) > 4296 4296 [3944; 4662] 3699 [3264; 4142] Y - H H H 5 CDDs Cooling Degree Days (CDDs) > 217.2 217.2 [134.2; 306.9] 404.5 [267.9; 550.2] Y + H H H 5 Freeze-thaw cycles Number of winter freeze thaw cycles > 31.0 31.0 [21.8; 40.4] 36.5 [27.4; 46.3] Y + M L H 3 Page 147 of 202
Page 3 Climate Hazard Threshold Value Historical values Short-Term Projections (2021-2050)1 Will the Interaction Change Over the Time Horizon of the Assessment? (Y/N) More-Same-Less (+/0/-) Projected Change in Magnitude (H/M/L) Projected Change in Frequency (H/M/L) Robustness of Forecast (H/M/L) Probability Score (1-7) Short-duration precipitation 24-hr 1:100 precipitation > 104.87 mm 104.87 mm 123.24 [109.36; 141.57] Y + M M M 5 Annual precipitation Annual precipitation > 821 mm 821 mm [679; 967] 873 mm [709; 1048] Y + L L M 2 Snow Maximum snow depth > 70 cm 70 cm 5%-7.5% decrease per decade by 20502, i.e. [51; 57] cm Y - H M L 5 2 Derksen et al. (2019). Changes in snow, ice, and permafrost across Canada; Chapter 5 in Canada’s Changing Climate Report, (ed.) E. Bush and D.S. Lemmen, Government of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, p.194-260 Page 148 of 202
Page 4 Climate Hazard Threshold Value Historical values Short-Term Projections (2021-2050)1 Will the Interaction Change Over the Time Horizon of the Assessment? (Y/N) More-Same-Less (+/0/-) Projected Change in Magnitude (H/M/L) Projected Change in Frequency (H/M/L) Robustness of Forecast (H/M/L) Probability Score (1-7) Freezing rain Number of days with freezing rain events per year > 5 3 – 7 +10-18% by 20503, i.e. 6 [3 – 8] Y + L L L 2 Wind Number of days with wind gusts > 100 km/h > 5 5 +30%4, i.e. 6.5 Y + L M L 3 Lightning Annual number of lightning strikes > 3,021 3,021 +12% per degree of increase in mean temperature5, i.e. 3,876 [3,307; 4,491] Y + H M L 4 3 Cheng et al. (2012). Possible impacts of climate change on extreme weather events at local scale in south-central Canada, Climate Change, 112, 963-979. DOI 10.1007/s10584-011-0252-0. The historical baseline has been determined by summing the values in the paper for the Dec-Feb period (2-5) and November, March and April period (1-2), giving us a baseline of 3-7 and a threshold of 5 (the average of 3-7). The projections have been determined using the average of the projections in the paper and a weighting based on the number of months. 4 Cheng et al. (2014). Possible impacts of climate change on wind gusts under downscaled future climate conditions: update for Canada, Journal of Climate, 7, 1255-1270. DOI 10.1175/JCLI-D-13-00020.1, increase in 90km/h wind gusts can be applicable to 100km/h wind gusts with moderate confidence. 5 Romps et al. (2014). Projected increase in lightning strikes in the United States due to global warming, Science, 346(6211), 851-854. DOI 10.1126/science.1259100 Page 149 of 202
Page 5 Climate Hazard Threshold Value Historical values Short-Term Projections (2021-2050)1 Will the Interaction Change Over the Time Horizon of the Assessment? (Y/N) More-Same-Less (+/0/-) Projected Change in Magnitude (H/M/L) Projected Change in Frequency (H/M/L) Robustness of Forecast (H/M/L) Probability Score (1-7) Wildfire Mean annual area burnt in the Eastern temperate zone6 > 0.04% 0.04% +50%7, i.e. 0.06% Y + H M L 4 The probability scores have five distinct levels (very low, low, moderate, high and very high), and correspond to the terminology detailed in the table below. The scores are balanced by the data confidence scoring (i.e. robustness of forecast). If we have a medium confidence in datasets, a penalty of -0.5 is applied to get the final score. If the confidence is low, a penalty of -1 is applied. Each probability score is then rounded to the superior integer. SCORE PROBABILITY CONFIDENCE 1 Negligible Low (-1) Projected ranges in future climate are similar to historic ranges and no trend can be identified. The threshold would therefore be passed as frequently as it has been historically. - Data source has certain shortcomings and the projections have relatively large uncertainties. - Results come from the scientific literature and the uncertainty ranges are not specified. 2 Very Low Projected ranges in future climate completely or significantly overlap historic baseline means and uncertainty ranges and/or do not exceed historic or design thresholds. Therefore, the probability that the threshold would be passed more frequently is very low. 6 Wang, X. et al. (2014). The potential and realized spread of wildfires across Canada, Global Change Biology (2014) 20, 2518–2530, doi: 10.1111/gcb.12590 7 FLANNIGAN, M. (2020): Mike Flannigan – Fire Management Systems Laboratory. Fire and Climate Change. Consulted on September 30, 2021. Website: https://sites.ualberta.ca/~flanniga/climatechange.html, based on 2081-2100 projections of +100%. Page 150 of 202
Page 6 SCORE PROBABILITY CONFIDENCE 3 Low Medium (-0.5) Projected ranges in future climate significantly overlap historic baseline means and uncertainty ranges and/or do not exceed historic or design thresholds. Therefore, the probability that the threshold would be passed more frequently is low. - Data source is reliable, but the projections have relatively large uncertainties. - Data source has certain shortcomings, but projections have relatively small uncertainties. - Results come directly from the scientific literature. 4 Moderate Projected ranges in future climate overlap historic baseline means and lower or upper uncertainty ranges (dependant on if the trends are increasing or decreasing) and/or meet or marginally exceed historic or design thresholds. Therefore, the probability that the threshold would be passed more frequently is moderate. 5 High High (-0) Projected ranges in future climate overlap historic lower or upper uncertainty ranges (dependant on if the trends are increasing or decreasing) and/or exceed historic or design thresholds. Therefore, the probability that the threshold would be passed more frequently is high. - Data source is reliable. - Enough climate models have been used. - Projections have relatively low uncertainties. 6 Very high Projected ranges in future climate are entirely out of the range of historic baseline means and uncertainty ranges and/or significantly exceed historic or design thresholds. Therefore, the probability that the threshold would be passed more frequently is very high. 7 Extreme Projected ranges in future climate are considerably out of the range of historic baseline means and uncertainty ranges and significantly exceed historic or design thresholds. Therefore, the probability that the threshold would be passed more frequently is extremely high. Page 151 of 202
Appendix
B-3. Worksheet 3
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Town of Aurora
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan
PIEVC Worksheet #3
TECHNICAL MEMO #3
CLIENT: Town of Aurora
PROJECT: Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation
Plan
WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00
SUBJECT: PIEVC Worksheet #3 DATE: 25 April 2022
RECIPIENT: Natalie Kehle, Town of Aurora
FROM: Lisa MacTavish, P.Eng.
1 INTRODUCTION
The Town of Aurora engaged WSP to conduct a climate change adaptation plan for the infrastructure assets within
the municipal boundary. The adaptation plan is informed by a climate change risk and vulnerability assessment
completed using the Public Infrastructure Engineering Vulnerability Committee (PIEVC) protocol as it is a
nationally recognized tool for assessing infrastructure risk due to climate change. This technical note presents the
results of the risk assessment step (Step 3) of the PIEVC protocol prepared by WSP’s team which includes a group
of climate resilience specialists and Subject Matter Experts in water, parks, and asset management.
Building on the results obtained during Steps 1 and 2 of the Protocol, WSP’s project team established a list of
possible interactions between each of the asset sub-categories and climate trends/extreme weather events previously
identified. WSP then assessed the future probability of the climate-infrastructure interactions occurring, as well as
the severity of these interactions, if the defined thresholds were exceeded. The probability and severity scores were
used to calculate a risk score for relevant infrastructure-climate interactions and enabled the development of a
climate change risk profile of the Town of Aurora’s assets.
This risk profile was subsequently validated by the Town during a virtual workshop that took place on October 29,
2021. The results from this step of the Protocol are used by WSP to formulate and prioritize the recommendations as
part of the final phase of the analysis (i.e. Step 5 of the Protocol).
1.1 PREPARE STEP 3 WORKSHEET
Enter Yes or No
a. Use this Worksheet; or Yes
b. Prepare practitioner specific documentation.
i. Practitioner specific documentation MUST detail each task outlined
in this step of the Protocol.
No
Comments and Observations
The worksheet provided by the PIEVC addresses adequately every step of the Protocol and was therefore
selected. The following sections present the outcomes of Worksheet 3, without mentioning each of the steps on
a strict basis. However, note that each step of the Protocol (Figure 1) has been followed. A detailed
methodology for Step 3 is available upon request from its owner at pievc@iclr.org.
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PIEVC Worksheet #3
Figure 1 Step 3 Flowchart
Figure 1 details the steps undertaken as part of Step 3 of the protocol, this worksheet elaborates on the findings from
Step 3 for the Town infrastructure.
2 RISK ASSESSMENT
The PIEVC Protocol defines risk as the possibility of injury, loss or negative environmental impact created by a
hazard. Risk is a product of the probability of occurrence of a negative consequence and of the level of severity of
this consequence. The risk assessment is then completed by answering the three following questions:
1 Which events could occur in the lifespan of the infrastructure?
2 How likely is it that these events will occur?
3 If the event happens, what are the consequences?
Thus, after determining plausible interactions between the climate and the infrastructure components and calculating
probabilities that climate conditions exceed historical baselines, a vulnerability assessment is conducted to
determine the severity of potential consequences. The product of the probability and the severity scores (both on a
scale of 0 to 7) results in a risk score (0 to 49).
STEP 3
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The following risk evaluation grid was used in this assessment (Table 1):
Table 1 Risk evaluation grid
Risk range Threshold Response
< 12 Low risk No action necessary.
12 – 36 Low medium risk (12-25) Action and/or an engineering analysis may be
required. High medium risk (26-36)
> 36 High risk Action required.
= 7 Special Case Requires special attention in risk assessment to
determine if action is necessary.
ņ Low-risk represent no immediate vulnerability; there is minimal changing-climate vulnerability associated with
the asset. No further action is required for low risks.
ņ Medium-risk interactions represent a potential vulnerability. Further engineering analysis may be necessary if
there is not adequate information to provide a clear, unambiguous determination of the vulnerability. Medium
risks may require mitigative action. Medium risks have been further broken down into low-medium and high-
medium risks to aid in prioritization of mitigation measures.
ņ High-risk interactions represent an identified vulnerability. Mitigative actions are required to ensure the
viability of the infrastructure.
Special cases will also be highlighted and carefully considered in the assessment. When a risk score of 7 is
estimated, interactions with climate and the infrastructure present either:
ņ A very high severity and a very low probability; or
ņ A very low severity and a very high probability.
Special cases may warrant specific mitigative measures due to either a very severe outcome, or very high likelihood
of occurrence. However, there were no special cases identified in this assessment.
For this project, the vulnerability analysis was first completed by WSP’s project team, then validated with the client
during a workshop. The risk profile presented in Section 4.2 is based on this preliminary assessment and was
confirmed during the workshop.
3 RISK TOLERANCE AND VERIFICATION OF STEP 2 RESULTS
Risk tolerance and risk thresholds vary between organizations and individuals. It is important that organizations
understand the risks associated with meeting their objectives and levels of service and make informed decisions
regarding risk. Risk tolerance was discussed with the Town of Aurora to confirm alignment with their organization
and operational requirements, however defining levels of service for the infrastructure assessed in this study is still
underway for the Town.
Prior to the risk assessment, the Town reviewed the outcomes of Steps 1 and 2 of the Protocol. During the October
29th workshop, the Town once again confirmed that the assumptions and methodology presented were applicable to
this study in this location.
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4 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT
Vulnerability is based on the severity of the consequences from interactions between climate and various assets.
Potential responses of the infrastructure can be summarized as follows:
ņ Structural design – i.e. safety; load carrying capacity;
ņ Loss of functionality – i.e. level of service; level of effective capacity; component selection;
ņ Serviceability – i.e. ability to conduct routine maintenance activities;
ņ Watershed and environmental effects – i.e. discharge quality in sensitive environments;
ņ Material performance – i.e. rate of degradation, capacity to achieve expected level of performance;
ņ Operations and maintenance – i.e. occupational safety; equipment performance; functional and effective
capacity; changes from design expectation; pavement performance;
ņ Emergency response – i.e. procedures and systems to address severe storm events, flooding, water damage, road
closures;
ņ Insurance considerations – i.e. rates; ability to insure; policy limitation or exclusions;
ņ Policy and Legal considerations – i.e. codes; guidelines; internal policies and procedures; land use planning;
ņ Social effects – i.e. public safety, transportation of goods to a community; accessibility to critical facilities such
as hospitals, fire and police services; community business viability; public perception, reputation and
interaction, archaeological resources, historically important resources and First Nations territorial impacts.
Severity is assessed following the 0 to 7 scale from Method E proposed by the PIEVC Protocol (Table 2).
Table 2 Definition of severity scores
Score Severity of consequences and effects
0 Negligible
Not Applicable
1 Very Low
Some Measurable Changes
2 Low
Slight Loss of Serviceability
3 Moderate Loss of Serviceability
4 Major Loss of Serviceability
Some Loss of Capacity
5 Loss of Capacity
Some Loss of Function
6 Major
Loss of Function
7 Extreme
Loss of Asset
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4.1 YES/NO ANALYSIS
The first step of the risk assessment is to determine which infrastructure components could be impacted by climate
hazards. This is completed through a Yes/No analysis. Infrastructure components identified in Step 2 are compared
with infrastructure thresholds defined in Worksheet #2 to develop a list of possible climate-infrastructure
interactions (Table 3). The interactions deemed irrelevant (i.e. not vulnerable to the climate threshold identified) in
the professional judgment of WSP’s project team are identified by a “N” in Table 3. Irrelevant interactions are not
scored in the risk analysis. Interactions which are determined to be relevant are identified by as “Y” in Table 3.
Relevant interactions are further considered and assigned risk scores.
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Table 3 Results of the yes/no analysis Climate parameters Low winter temperature High summer temperatureHeat wavesLow winter temperature (HDD) High summer temperature (CDD) Freeze-thaw cycles Extreme short-duration precipitation Annual Precipitation Snow Freezing rain Wind Lightning Wildfires Facilities
HVAC systems Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N N N Y Y
Building envelope
systems N Y Y N N Y Y Y N N Y N N
Building structural
systems N N N N N Y N N N N Y N N
Electrical systems N Y Y N Y N N N N Y Y Y N
Plumbing systems N N N N N N Y Y N Y N N N
Hardscaping N Y Y N N Y Y N Y Y N N N
Water Network
Water mains Y N N N N Y N N N N N N N
Water valves Y N N N N Y N N N N N N N
Underground
enclosures N N N N N Y N N N N N N N
Fire hydrants N N Y N N Y Y N Y Y N N N
Service connections Y N N N N Y N N N N N N N
Bulk water filling
stations N N N N N Y Y N N N N N N
Booster stations N N N N N Y Y N N Y Y Y N
Sanitary Network
Sewers N Y Y N N Y Y Y Y N N N N
Maintenance
chambers N N N N N Y Y N N N N N N
Laterals N Y Y N N Y Y Y Y N N N N
Equalization tanks N Y Y N N Y Y Y Y N N N N
Pumping stations N Y Y N N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N
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7Climate parameters Low winter temperature High summer temperatureHeat waves Low winter temperature (HDD) High summer temperature (CDD) Freeze-thaw cycles Extreme short-duration precipitation Annual Precipitation Snow Freezing rain Wind Lightning Wildfires Stormwater Network
Sewers (stormwater) N N N N N Y Y Y Y N N N N
Maintenance
chambers
(stormwater)
N N N N N Y Y Y Y N N N N
Catch basins N N N N N Y Y Y Y N Y N N
Laterals
(stormwater) N N N N N Y Y Y Y N N N N
Oil grit separators N N N N N Y Y Y Y N N N N
Cleanouts N N N N N Y Y Y Y N N N N
Headwalls N N N N N Y Y N Y N Y N N
Stormwater
management ponds NYYN N NYYYN N N N
Equalization tanks
(stormwater) N N N N NYYYYN N N N
Bridges and culverts Y Y Y N N Y Y Y Y Y Y N N
Road Network
Pavement and curbs Y Y Y N N Y Y N Y Y N N N
Pedestrian paths Y Y Y N N Y Y N Y Y N N N
Road luminaires N N N N N Y N N Y Y Y Y N
Signage N N N N N N N N N Y Y Y N
Traffic signals N N N N N Y N N Y Y Y Y N
Park and Natural Heritage System
Open space and
parkland Y Y Y N N N Y N N Y Y Y N
Land associated
with municipal
facilities
Y Y Y N N N Y N N Y Y Y N
Land maintained for
environmental
purposes
Y Y Y N N N Y Y N Y Y Y N
Off-road trails N N N N N Y Y Y N N Y Y N
Park structures N Y N N N Y Y N N N Y N N
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4.2 RISK PROFILE
The 185 relevant climate-infrastructure interactions identified in the previous section have been assessed using
available data, scientific literature and the professional judgment of WSP’s project team. Table 4 summarizes the
results of this assessment. Of the 185 interactions assessed, 98 correspond to a low risk, 58 to a low medium risk,
and 29 correspond to an opportunity. No high medium risks, high risks or special cases have been identified. These
are split into the infrastructure components as shown in Table 4. Extreme short-duration precipitation and heat
waves have caused the highest rated risks as a result of the high probability scoring (5) and higher consequence
ratings. These risks are summarized as follows:
Heat waves
x Facilities - HVAC systems: Potential to exceed the capacity of facilities' cooling systems, which impacts
the ability for facilities to act as cooling shelters.
x Park and Natural Heritage System - Land associated with municipal facilities: Playing fields may become
unusable after dry and high temperature periods.
Extreme short-duration precipitation
x Sanitary Network - Sewers, Maintenance Chambers, and Laterals: Increased inflow and infiltration (I&I)
may cause sanitary backups in the system impacting users and leading to wastewater in the environment.
Groundwater may infiltrate into the system affecting capacity.
x Sanitary Network - Equalization tanks: Excess flows may enter the system, affecting capacity.
x Sanitary Network - Pumping stations: Increased I&I may cause sanitary backups in the system impacting
users and leading to wastewater in the environment. Groundwater may infiltrate affecting capacity. The
building itself may become flooded as a result of overland flows and system breakdown.
x Stormwater Network - Bridges and culverts: Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding of
surrounding areas and increased erosion. Bridges could be washed out due to extreme floods.
x Park and Natural Heritage System - Land associated with municipal facilities: Playing fields may become
unusable after periods of very heavy rain.
Lightning has a slightly lower probability score but as a result of the high consequence, it also resulted in some
higher rated risks. These include:
x Road Network - Traffic signals: Power outages caused by lightning strikes.
x Facilities - Electrical systems: Lightning can lead to increased power failures depending on the reliability of
the local utility supply. Facilities without emergency generators may temporarily lose ability to operate,
which is significant for emergency and shelter facilities.
The breakdown for each infrastructure category can be found in Table 5, Table 6, Table 7, Table 8, Table 9, and
Table 10.
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Table 4 Risk profile summary of the infrastructure in the Town of Aurora
Infrastructure
category
Relevant
interactions
Opportunities Low risks Low medium risks
Facilities 31 3 12 16
Water Network 19 4 12 3
Sanitary Network 29 4 12 13
Stormwater Network 47 11 24 12
Road Network 27 6 16 5
Park and Natural
Heritage system 32 1 22 9
Total 185 29 98 58
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25 April 2022 WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00 10 Town of AuroraTown of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation PlanPIEVC Worksheet #34.2.1 FACILITIES Table 5 Risk profile of the facilities infrastructure in the Town of Aurora COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R FACILITIES HVAC Systems Low winter temperature 3 Opportunity: Reduced demand on heating system. High summer temperature 4 4 16 Potential to exceed the capacity of facilities' cooling systems, may require replacements to meet demand. Heat waves 5 5 25 Potential to exceed the capacity of facilities' cooling systems, which impacts the ability for facilities to act as cooling shelters. Low winter temperature (HDD) 5 Opportunity: Reduced demand on heating system. High summer temperature (CDD) 5 3 15 Increased annual demand on cooling system, potentially leading to increased maintenance costs and energy demands. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 2 10 Potential for water damage to equipment on poorly drained rooftops. Lightning 4 4 16 Damage to rooftop components if struck by lightning. Wildfires 4 4 16 Smoke from wildfires may impact indoor air quality in buildings and increase filter replacements. Building envelope systems High summer temperature 4 1 4 Increased deterioration of sealants around windows and metal paneling at facilities. Heat waves 5 1 5 Increased deterioration of sealants around windows and metal paneling at facilities. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6 Increased deterioration to brick and sealants around windows and doors. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 2 10 Increased ponding on rooftops may lead to accelerated deterioration or leaks to building interiors. Annual precipitation 2 1 2 Increased moisture can increase deterioration rate of brick and building envelope systems over time. Wind 3 6 18 Potential for damage to building envelope components if design wind loading is exceeded. Potential for the roof to blow off the JOC and sports dome. Building structural systems Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration to structures exposed to the outdoors at facilities. Wind 3 5 15 Potential for wind loads to exceed structural design capacities. Page 162 of 202
Town of Aurora Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan PIEVC Worksheet #3 25 April 2022WSP Ref.: 211-03040-0011COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R Electrical systems High summer temperature 4 4 16 Increased demand on cooling system and therefore electrical systems, potentially exceeding facility capacity. Heat waves 5 4 20 Increased demand on cooling system and therefore electrical systems, potentially exceeding facility capacity. High summer temperature (CDD) 5 3 15 Increased annual demand on cooling system and associated increase in demand on electrical system potentially leading to increased maintenance costs. Freezing rain 2 6 12 Freezing rain can lead to increased power failures depending on the reliability of the local utility supply. Facilities without emergency generators may temporarily lose ability to operate which is significant for emergency and shelter facilities. Wind 3 5 15 Windstorms can lead to increased power failures depending on the reliability of the local utility supply. Facilities without emergency generators may temporarily lose ability to operate, which is significant for emergency and shelter facilities. Lightning 4 5 20 Lightning can lead to increased power failures depending on the reliability of the local utility supply. Facilities without emergency generators may temporarily lose ability to operate, which is significant for emergency and shelter facilities. Plumbing systems Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 3 15 Precipitation may exceed rooftop drainage capacity leading to ponding on roofs, infiltration to foundation drainage systems may exceed sump pump capacities leading to flooding in basements or on ground floors. Annual precipitation 2 1 2 Increased demand on drainage systems leading to moderately increased maintenance. Freezing rain 2 1 2 Freezing rain can temporarily block roof drainage systems leading to ponding on roofs. Hardscaping High summer temperature 4 4 16 Increased deterioration of pavement and concrete slabs through rutting and/or buckling, requiring increased maintenance and decreased service life. Heat waves 5 3 15 Increased deterioration of pavements and concrete slabs through rutting and/or buckling, requiring increased maintenance and decreased service life. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6 Increased deterioration of pavements, pedestrian pathways and retaining walls leading to increased maintenance requirements. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 2 10 Rainwater may pool on pavements reducing access to facilities or lead to erosion around parking areas and pathways. Snow 5 Opportunity: Reduced snow clearing requirements. Freezing rain 2 2 4 Increased ice maintenance to prevent slips trips and falls. Page 163 of 202
25 April 2022 WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00 12 Town of AuroraTown of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation PlanPIEVC Worksheet #34.2.2 WATER NETWORK Table 6 Risk profile of the water network infrastructure in the Town of Aurora COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENTJUSTIFICATION P S R WATER NETWORK Water mains Low winter temperature 3 Opportunity: Decreased breakages caused by the freezing of water in pipes due to the milder winters resulting in decreased maintenance and replacement requirements. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6 Breaking or tension in older pipes as a result of frost heave leading to increased maintenance and potential water quality impacts. Water valves Low winter temperature 3 Opportunity: Decreased breakages caused by the freezing of water in valves due to the milder winters resulting in decreased maintenance and replacement requirements. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 3 9 Breaking of valves as a result of frost heave leading to increased maintenance and replacement requirements. Increased deterioration (corrosion) as a result of exposure to salt from melt. Underground enclosures Freeze-thaw cycles 3 13Increased deterioration (corrosion) as a result of exposure to salt from melt.Fire hydrants Heat waves 5 4 20 Increased water usage during the heat wave may affect water pressure for fire hydrants. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3Connection lines strained and potential for decreased pressure as a result of frost heave. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 1 5 Lack of access to fire hydrants if surrounding area is flooded. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased usage of salts will mean hydrants are less affected. Freezing rain 2 1 2 Road salt applied around fire hydrants to manage freezing rain increase the rate of corrosion and overall life of hydrant. Service connections Low winter temperature 3 Opportunity: Decreased breakages caused by the freezing of water in pipes due to the milder winters resulting in decreased maintenance and replacement requirements. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 39Breaking or tension in the pipes as a result of frost heave leading to increased maintenance and replacement requirements. Bulk water filling stations Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration of associated infrastructure as a result of exposure to salt from melt. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 3 15 Potential for electrical failures as a result of flooding. Booster stations Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration of infrastructure as a result of expansion and contraction and exposure to salt from melt. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 3 15 Potential for electrical failures as a result of flooding. Freezing rain 2 1 2 Temporary access limitations during a freezing rain event. Wind 3 2 6 Potential damage to structure. Risk of power outage impacting communication system. Lightning 4 2 8 Potential damage to structure. Risk of power outage impacting communication system. Page 164 of 202
Town of Aurora Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan PIEVC Worksheet #3 25 April 2022WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00134.2.3 SANITARY NETWORK Table 7 Risk profile of the sanitary network infrastructure in the Town of Aurora COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R SANITARY NETWORK Sewers High summer temperature 4 3 12Increased corrosion leading to odour events. Heat waves 5 315Increased corrosion leading to odour events. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6 Breaking or tension in the pipes as a result of frost heave leading to increased maintenance and replacement requirements. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 5 25Increased inflow and infiltration (I&I) causing sanitary backups in the system impacting users and leading to wastewater in the environment. Groundwater may infiltrate into the system affecting capacity. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Increased I&I causing sanitary backups in the system impacting users and leading to wastewater in the environment. Groundwater may infiltrate into the system affecting capacity. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity and resulting in sanitary backups in the system. Maintenance chambers Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration as a result of exposure to salt from melt. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 5 25Increased I&I causing sanitary backups in the system impacting users and leading to wastewater in the environment. Groundwater may infiltrate affecting capacity. Laterals High summer temperature 4 3 12Increased corrosion leading to odour events. Heat waves 5 3 15Increased corrosion leading to odour events. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 3 9 Breaking or tension in the pipes as a result of frost heave leading to increased maintenance and replacement requirements. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 5 25Increased I&I causing sanitary backups in the system impacting users and leading to wastewater in the environment. Groundwater may infiltrate affecting capacity. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Increased annual I&I causing sanitary backups in the system impacting users and leading to wastewater in the environment. Groundwater may infiltrate affecting capacity. Consequences of chronic increase are lower than for acute events. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity and resulting in sanitary backups in the system. Page 165 of 202
25 April 2022 WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00 14 Town of AuroraTown of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation PlanPIEVC Worksheet #3COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R Equalization tanks High summer temperature 4 3 12Increased corrosion leading to odour events. Heat waves 5 3 15Increased corrosion leading to odour events. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration as a result of exposure to salt from melt. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 5 25Excess flows may enter the system, affecting capacity. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Excess flows may enter the system, affecting capacity. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity and resulting in sanitary backups in the system. Pumping stations High summer temperature 4 3 12Increased corrosion leading to odour events. Increased potential for cooling requirements to maintain equipment. Heat waves 5 3 15Increased corrosion leading to odour events. Increased potential for cooling requirements to maintain equipment. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration of infrastructure as a result of expansion and contraction and exposure to salt from melt. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 5 25Sanitary backups in the system impacting users and leading to wastewater in the environment. Groundwater may infiltrate affecting capacity. The building itself may become flooded as a result of overland flows and system breakdown. Annual precipitation 2 4 8 Sanitary backups in the system impacting users and leading to wastewater in the environment. Groundwater may infiltrate affecting capacity. The building itself may become flooded as a result of overland flows and system breakdown. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity and resulting in sanitary backups in the system. Freezing rain 2 1 2 Temporary access limitations during a freezing rain event. Wind 3 2 6 Potential damage to structure. Risk of power outage impacting communication system. Lightning 4 2 8 Potential damage to structure. Risk of power outage impacting communication system. Page 166 of 202
Town of Aurora Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan PIEVC Worksheet #3 25 April 2022WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00154.2.4 STORMWATER NETWORK Table 8 Risk profile of the stormwater network infrastructure in the Town of Aurora COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R STORMWATER NETWORK Sewers Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6 Breaking or tension in the pipes as a result of frost heave leading to increased maintenance and replacement requirements. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding in the system. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Exceeded capacity leading to flooding in the system. Operating at higher capacities can lead to faster deterioration of infrastructure. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Maintenance chambers Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration as a result of exposure to salt from melt. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding in the system. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Exceeded capacity leading to flooding in the system. Operating at higher capacities can lead to faster deterioration of infrastructure. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Catch basins Freeze-thaw cycles 3 26Increased requirement of maintenance and cleaning as a result of debris and ice buildup causing blockages. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding in the system. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Exceeded capacity leading to flooding in the system. Operating at higher capacities can lead to faster deterioration of infrastructure. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Wind 3 3 9 Localised flooding caused by debris and blockages. Laterals Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6 Breaking or tension in the pipes as a result of frost heave leading to increased maintenance and replacement requirements. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity leading to flooding in the system. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Exceeded capacity leading to flooding in the system. Operating at higher capacities can lead to faster deterioration of infrastructure. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Oil grit separators Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6 Increased deterioration as a result of exposure to salt from melt. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding in the system. Annual precipitation 2 36Exceeded capacity leading to flooding in the system. Operating at higher capacities can lead to faster deterioration of infrastructure. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Page 167 of 202
25 April 2022 WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00 16 Town of AuroraTown of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation PlanPIEVC Worksheet #3COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R Cleanouts Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration as a result of exposure to salt from melt. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding in the system. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Exceeded capacity leading to flooding in the system. Operating at higher capacities can lead to faster deterioration of infrastructure. Snow 5Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Headwalls Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6 Increased deterioration as a result of exposure to salt from melt. Increased requirement of maintenance and cleaning as a result of debris buildup. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding in the system. Bank stability issues and washout around headwalls causes by higher flows. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Wind 3 3 9 Localised flooding caused by debris and blockages. Stormwater management ponds High summer temperature 4 4 16 Increased evaporation due to high temperatures can result in a decreased functionality of wet ponds. Heat waves 5 4 20 Increased evaporation due to prolonged high temperatures can result in a decreased functionality of wet ponds. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity leading to washouts, collapsed berms and the flooding of surrounding areas. Reduced capacity to manage sediment. Annual precipitation 2 4 8 Exceeded capacity leading to less active storage and fuller ponds with higher risk of overtopping and flooding. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Equalization tanks Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Exposure to salt from melt can increase deterioration. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding in the system. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Exceeded capacity leading to flooding in the system. Operating at higher capacities can lead to faster deterioration of infrastructure. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Bridges and culverts Low winter temperature 3 Opportunity: Decreased salting and maintenance requirements as a result of milder winters. High summer temperature 4 2 8 Rutting and buckling of the pavement on the bridges and culvert crossings resulting in increased maintenance requirements. Heat waves 5 2 10 Rutting and buckling of the pavement on the bridges and culverts resulting in increased maintenance requirements. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 3 9 Increased deterioration as a result of exposure to salt from melt and expansion and contraction from freeze-thaw. Ice blockages in culverts can cause backups in the system and physical damage.Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 5 25 Exceeded capacity and debris blockages leading to flooding of surrounding areas and increased erosion. Bridges could be washed out due to extreme floods. Annual precipitation 2 3 6 Increased erosion around bridges and culverts due to higher water levels. Page 168 of 202
Town of Aurora Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan PIEVC Worksheet #3 25 April 2022WSP Ref.: 211-03040-0017COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R Bridges and culverts Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased snowmelt events affecting capacity of the system. Freezing rain 2 4 8 Bridge decks usually reach the freezing temperature before the adjacent roads, leading to hazardous surface conditions in freezing rain/ice storms. Wind 3 3 9 Localised flooding caused by debris and blockages. Potential damage to structures from the wind load. 4.2.5 ROAD NETWORK Table 9 Risk profile of the road network infrastructure in the Town of Aurora COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R ROAD NETWORK Pavement and curbsLow winter temperature 3 Opportunity: Decreased salting and maintenance requirements as a result of milder winters. High summer temperature 4 2 8 Rutting and buckling of the pavement resulting in increased maintenance requirements. Heat waves 5 2 10 Rutting and buckling of the pavement resulting in increased maintenance requirements. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 3 9 Damage to pavement and concrete caused by expansion and contraction, resulting in increase pothole formation. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 3 15 Temporary loss of access due to flooding. Erosion and washouts resulting in increased clearing and maintenance required. Snow 5Opportunity: Decreased requirement for snow clearing and maintenance. Freezing rain 2 4 8 Increased salting and maintenance requirements. Higher risks of accidents which can cause delays and blockages. Pedestrian paths Low winter temperature 3 Opportunity: Decreased salting and maintenance requirements as a result of milder winters. High summer temperature 4 2 8Rutting and buckling of the path resulting in increased maintenance requirements. Heat waves 5 2 10 Rutting and buckling of the path resulting in increased maintenance requirements. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 4 12 Trip hazards and loss of accessibility to sidewalks caused by heaving and ground shift as a result of freeze thaw cycles. Damage to concrete caused by expansion and contraction. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 4 20 Temporary loss of access. Erosion and washouts resulting in increased clearing and maintenance required. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased requirement for snow clearing and maintenance. Freezing rain 2 4 8Increased salting and maintenance requirements. Temporary loss of access during events. Page 169 of 202
25 April 2022 WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00 18 Town of AuroraTown of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation PlanPIEVC Worksheet #3COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R Road luminaires Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6Damage to posts or concrete base caused by expansion and contraction of metal over time. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased corrosion from salt and damage from snowploughs. Freezing rain 2 2 4Deterioration from salt and damage from snow ploughs. Wind 3 1 3 Damage to the luminaires and power lines servicing the luminaires caused by the wind. Potential for increased wind induced vibration leading to cracking over time. Lightning 4 14Power outages caused by lightning strikes.Signage Freezing rain 2 2 4Icing over of signs causing safety hazards and increased maintenance requirements. Wind 3 1 3Damage caused by wind. Lightning 4 1 4Damage and power outages caused by lightning strikes. Traffic signals Freeze-thaw cycles 3 2 6Damage to posts or concrete base caused by expansion and contraction of metal over time. Snow 5 Opportunity: Decreased corrosion from salt and damage from snowploughs. Freezing rain 2 6 12 Icing over of signs causing safety hazards and increased maintenance requirements. Power outages caused by ice-related downed power lines can last for multiple days. Wind 3 2 6Damage to the luminaires and power lines servicing the luminaires caused by the wind. Lightning 4 6 24 Power outages caused by lightning strikes. Page 170 of 202
Town of Aurora Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan PIEVC Worksheet #3 25 April 2022WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00194.2.6 PARK AND NATURAL HERITAGE SYSTEM Table 10 Risk profile of the park and natural heritage system infrastructure in the Town of Aurora COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R PARK AND NATURAL HERITAGE SYSTEM Open space and parklandLow winter temperature 3 3 9 Invasive species such as the gypsy moth could impact vegetation if temperatures are warm enough throughout the winter for them to survive. High summer temperature 4 2 8 Vegetation dieback and increased watering or replacement of vegetation required. Heat waves 5 2 10 Vegetation dieback and increased watering or replacement of vegetation required. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 2 10 Washout of vegetation, erosion of soil, exposure of roots and damage to trees and vegetation. Snow 5 3 15 Decreased snow available for ice making for the outdoor ice rinks. Freezing rain 2 1 2 Replacement of vegetation required as a result of damage to the trees and plants caused by the ice. Wind 3 3 9 Replacement and maintenance of vegetation required as a result of damage to trees and plants. Debris can also cause physical hazards. Lightning 4 3 12 Replacement and maintenance of vegetation required as a result of damage to trees and plants. Debris can also cause physical hazards.Land associated with municipal facilities Low winter temperature 3 3 9 Invasive species such as the gypsy moth could impact vegetation if temperatures are warm enough throughout the winter for them to survive. High summer temperature 4 5 20 Playing fields may become unusable after dry and high temperature periods. Heat waves 5 5 25 Playing fields may become unusable after dry and high temperature periods. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 5 25 Playing fields may become unusable after periods of very heavy rain. Freezing rain 2 1 2 Replacement of vegetation required as a result of damage to the trees and plants caused by the ice. Wind 3 3 9 Replacement and maintenance of vegetation required as a result of damage to trees and plants. Debris can also cause physical hazards. Lightning 4 3 12 Replacement and maintenance of vegetation required as a result of damage to trees and plants. Debris can also cause physical hazards. Land maintained for environmental purposes Low winter temperature 3 3 9 Invasive species such as the gypsy moth could impact vegetation if temperatures are warm enough throughout the winter for them to survive. High summer temperature 4 3 12 Vegetation dieback and increased watering or replacement of vegetation required. Heat waves 5 3 15 Vegetation dieback and increased watering or replacement of vegetation required. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 3 15 Washout of vegetation, erosion of soil, exposure of roots and damage to trees and vegetation. Annual precipitation 2 4 8 Impact to the viability of the ecosystem. Page 171 of 202
25 April 2022 WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00 20 Town of AuroraTown of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation PlanPIEVC Worksheet #3COMPONENT CLIMATE PARAMETER RISK ASSESSMENT JUSTIFICATION P S R Land maintained for environmental purposes Freezing rain 2 1 2 Replacement of vegetation required as a result of damage to the trees and plants caused by the ice. Wind 3 3 9 Replacement and maintenance of vegetation required as a result of damage to trees and plants. Debris can also cause physical hazards. Lightning 4 3 12 Replacement and maintenance of vegetation required as a result of damage to trees and plants from lightning or resultant forest fires. Debris can also cause physical hazards. Off-road trails Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Potential for increased pothole formation in paved surfaces (short sections) resulting in increased maintenance for both trails and in particular for trail bridges that are typically boardwalks. Decreased quality in cross country skiing surface in winter. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 2 10 Washout of gravel surfaces, local vegetation, erosion of soil, exposure of roots and damage to trees and vegetation. Annual precipitation 2 1 2 Increased maintenance required due to the washout of material. Wind 3 2 6 Increased maintenance and clearing of paths required. Potential for debris accumulation at bridge/boardwalks over watercourses. Lightning 4 2 8 Increased maintenance and clearing of paths required. Park structures High summer temperature 4 1 4 Degradation of plastics as a result of UV radiation. Freeze-thaw cycles 3 1 3 Increased deterioration of infrastructure caused by expansion and contraction. Extreme short-duration precipitation 5 1 5 Temporary loss of recreational use due to access limitations. Wind 3 1 3 Damage to structures from falling branches. Page 172 of 202
25 April 2022
WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00
21
Town of Aurora
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan
PIEVC Worksheet #3
5 DATA SUFFICIENCY
5.1 CLIMATE INFORMATION
Most of the climate information available was of very good quality and there is high confidence in the data
presented in this report. Historical data from Environment and Climate Change Canada is precise and accurate. The
climate change information portals consulted present the most up-to-date information on anticipated climate trends.
Projected changes in Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) curve data with the help of the IDF_CC tool 1 and
scientific literature is currently the best way to assess the likelihood of heavy rain events in eastern Canada, although
sub-daily climate modeling is evolving. When more sub-daily simulation from regional models are available,
climate projections for short duration extreme precipitation events will be more accurate.
No data is available for climate projection of wind characteristics at the regional scale. However, a peer-reviewed
article on the projected trends in the frequency and magnitude of strong wind episodes coupled with historical data
from a local weather station provided sufficient information about wind characteristic to assess the likelihood of
triggering the thresholds. Local-scale projections for lightning, snow, freezing rain, and tornadoes are also
unavailable. Data from scientific literature has been used to robustly complete the assessment.
5.2 INFRASTRUCTURE INFORMATION
WSP’s project team had access to all required reports and plans, including the Town of Aurora’s Asset Management
Plan. Discussions with the stakeholders from the Town also gave valuable insight into past events, key concerns and
current adaptation measures.
Given the scale of the assessment, it was not possible to use thresholds based on design codes and therefore the
historical climate baseline was used. No other data gaps were identified. Therefore, the project team deemed it had
sufficient data to conclude the assessment and issue recommendations (Step 5).
6 ENGINEERING ANALYSIS
Where there is potentially high risk and high uncertainty, an Engineering Analysis (Step 4 of the PIEVC Protocol)
allows the practitioner to assess the impact of projected climate change loads on the infrastructure capacity. This
may be required when existing information does not provide a sufficient basis to evaluate vulnerability, and where
further analysis would reduce the uncertainty of the evaluation. Step 4 of the Protocol takes a different perspective
on climate-infrastructure interaction and may include a load versus capacity assessment and detailed calculations for
direct comparison. Through review of the risk register, it was determined that an engineering analysis to determine
the quantitative impact of the projected climate change loads was not warranted in this assessment.
7 NEXT STEPS
Discussions, recommendations, adaptation measures and conclusions are all provided in the Climate Change
Adaptation Plan report which summarizes the project process and results.
1 Computerized Tool for the Development of Intensity-Duration-Frequency Curves under Climate Change developed by Western
University (https://www.idf-cc-uwo.ca/home).
Page 173 of 202
25 April 2022
WSP Ref.: 211-03040-00
22
Town of Aurora
Town of Aurora Climate Change Adaptation Plan
PIEVC Worksheet #3
PREPARED BY
Alice Berry
Advisor, Climate Risk and Resilience
REVIEWED BY
Lisa MacTavish, P.Eng.
Advisor, Climate Risk and Resilience
APPROVED BY
Elise Paré, P.Eng.
Climate Resilience Assessment Qualified Professional
Professional Engineers Ontario
Member #100548246
Page 174 of 202
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Pla nning and Development Services
Re: Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report
To: Environmental Advisory Committee
From: Sebastian Contarin, Energy and Climate Change Analyst
Date: June 22, 2022
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021
Progress Report be received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding Corporate
Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report be received and referred to staff for
consideration and further action as appropriate.
Background
The Corporate Environmental Action Plan (CEAP) is a five-year plan that outlines
environmental sustainability action items directed at staff at the corporate level. An
annual progress report is presented to the Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC)
and to Council.
The 2010 CEAP and the 2018 version received input from three Advisory Committees,
staff and senior management.
The purpose of the CEAP is to protect and enhance the natural environment, promote
environmental sustainability, integrity and conservation of resources, and create a
practice of environmental stewardship within the community. The CEAP is intended to
provide corporate direction on key strategic environmental initiatives that will be
initiated over the next five years. The CEAP was developed to assist Council to plan for
and implement specific actions to improve the Town’s environmental performance and
sustainability for future generations. The success of the Plan requires a coordinated
approach to implementation that includes all of the Town’s departments.
Page 175 of 202
Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report
June 22, 2022 Page 2 of 5
The overall themes in the CEAP cover:
Water Conservation;
Sustainable Urban Development;
Waste Reduction and Diversion;
Biodiversity and Natural Heritage;
Climate Change and Energy; and
Environmental Awareness
Analysis
The CEAP 2021 Progress Report show cases the Town’s actions towards environmental
sustainability and supports Council’s commitments to the environment.
In 2021, the Town Council approved the Electric Vehicle Charging Station Policy, taking
another important step towards decreasing the community’s greenhouse gas emissions
through the transition towards an electric-fuel exclusive corporate transportation fleet.
Though 2021 brought many challenges due to the COVID19 pandemic, staff continued
to effectively implementation of the CEAP. The following is a summary of the Town’s
2021 successes from the CEAP Progress Report (a more detailed summary of the
Town’s environmental objectives by theme and the Town’s initiatives are found in
Attachment 1):
Areas of
Implementation Completed Actions
Water
Conservation
Town Operations installed an in-ground holding tank at library square
to harvest and repurpose greywater, generated from splashpad
usage, as a resource for irrigation for landscape and vegetation; and
Town Operations changed 315 water meters in 2021 as part of its
water loss reduction strategy.
Sustainable
Urban
Development
Applied low impact development techniques during construction of the
2021 road reconstruction projects (bio-swales and enhanced oil/grit
separator);
Replaced sanitary laterals as part of its water loss reduction strategy;
The Town participated and maintained the Annual Smart Commute
Designation Award, maintaining the Gold Standard every year since
2012; and
Page 176 of 202
Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report
June 22, 2022 Page 3 of 5
Areas of
Implementation Completed Actions
Implementation of LEED Gold certified design features on town-owned
facilities during construction of the 2021 construction projects.
Waste
Reduction and
Diversion
Included recycled concrete material as a provisional item as part of 2021
road reconstruction project procurement to encourage sustainable
construction and building practices for Town infrastructure;
Integrated energy and waste reducing methodological practices as part of
2021 infrastructure maintenance and monitoring projects;
Integrated CB shields as part of 2021 storm pond reconstruction project;
The Town has diverted approximately 66% of waste its waste; exceeding
the 2018 base year rate by 1%;
Council approved the Bag Tag Program, which aims to educate residents
on proper waste disposal practices and increase town-wide waste
diversion rates;
Increased the number of multi-residential buildings within the Town’s
recycling program.
Biodiversity
and Natural
Heritage
Planted 1,900 trees and shrubs on Aurora lands;
A thirteenth partnership was established in 2021 with the Adopt a Park
Program and Partnership development (Herb McKenzie Park);
Maintained the partnership with York Region for invasive species control
where Phragmites, Garlic Mustard, Giant Hog Weed, and European
Buckthorn were targeted on regional frontage adjacent to Aurora parkland.
Arboretum continued work on Phragmites control.
Climate
Change and
Energy
Town had the kick-off to their Climate Change Adaptation Plan and Green
Development Standard in 2021;
Integrated Aurora’s “Every Second Counts” public education campaign in
2021, as part of the Council-approved Anti-Idling Policy;
Council approved the Town’s first Green Fleet Action Plan and Electric
Vehicle Charging Station Policy, which aims to electrify the Town’s
corporate fleet to produce zero emissions by 2051;
The Town had partnered with IVY Charge and installed eight (8) dual head
level 2 chargers at town-owned facilities; with proposed actions on
installing two (2) additional dual head chargers as part of the Library
Square Project;
Page 177 of 202
Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report
June 22, 2022 Page 4 of 5
Areas of
Implementation Completed Actions
Continued energy use tracking at town facility demonstrated a total of
19,828,350 equivalent kilowatt-hours in 2021; approximately 14.5% less
consumption compared to 2018;
Council approved $50,000 for the implementation of energy efficient
measures within town-owned facilities, as part of effort to reduce corporate
emissions;
Acquisition and implementation of energy efficient infrastructure within
town-owned facilities;
Generated 613,727 kilowatt-hours of electricity from Town solar rooftop
systems;
Continued adoption of monthly Building Performance meetings with
Facility staff and Energy and Climate Change Analyst, to discuss ongoing
energy projects, operational changes, energy consumption, trends, best
practices for energy conservation, new technologies, utility incentives;
Continued investigation of new technology to improve energy efficiency at
SARC using the Building Automation System innovation;
Performed a building audit, for natural gas consumption, under Enbridge's
Run it Right program, resulting to reductions to annual GHG emissions and
operational costs across town-owned facilities;
Integration of operational changes at town-owned facilities, in effort to
reduce energy consumption during COVID 19 shutdown, resulted to an
estimated energy cost avoidance of $488,000 (~23% energy avoidance) in
2021.
Environmental
Awareness
Continued efforts on updating the Town of Aurora website, providing the
community up-to-date information on the Town’s climate change initiatives
and plans;
Integration of Every Second Counts Town Anti-Idling education campaign;
Integration of two (2) Community Environmental awareness GO Green
Challenges;
Developed an enhanced Lymantria Dispar Dispar (LDD) strategy that
includes monitoring, robust communication plan, burlap kits, and watering
and injection treatments of select prominent trees.
Page 178 of 202
Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report
June 22, 2022 Page 5 of 5
Town staff implemented a tracking sheet to monitor progress and encourage
accountability.
The Progress Report consists of a summary document, highlighting the achievements
for 2021 (see Attachment 1), and a separate tracking document, used by staff to
monitor the progress of the action items (see Attachment 2).
The CEAP is reported annually, presented to Council and EAC and then posted on the
Town’s website. Ideally, reports are presented by mid-year for the previous reporting
year. This timeframe allows staff to collect, verify, input and analyze all the data needed
for tracking and reporting. Since the CEAP monitors facility energy consumption, utility
bills often get adjusted or corrected and require additional time to finalize the data.
The CEAP 2021 Progress Report is scheduled to be presented to Council in the fourth
quarter of 2022.
Attachments
Attachment 1 - DRAFT Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report
Attachment 2 - Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Tracking Sheet
Page 179 of 202
1
Attachment 1
Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2021 Progress Report
Water Conservation
Objective W1: Reduce Town-owned facility water consumption.
Objective W2: Reduce the uncontrolled and inadequately controlled storm water
areas with respect to both quality and quantity by following recommendations of
the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water Management Master Plan.
• Town Operations installed an in-ground holding tank at library square to
harvest and repurpose greywater, generated from splashpad usage, as a
resource for irrigation for landscape and vegetation (W1);
• Town Operations changed 315 water meters in 2021 as part of its water loss
reduction strategy (W1);
• Applied low impact development techniques during construction of the 2021
road reconstruction projects (bio-swales and enhanced oil/grit separator) (S1
and W2);
• Replaced sanitary laterals as part of its water loss reduction strategy (W1).
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Sustainable Urban Development
Objective S1: Foster a sustainable green development and alternate methods of
transportation to improve the quality of life of Aurora’s residents and Town staff.
• To promote sustainable transportation for Town staff, the Town participated in
the Annual Smart Commute Designation Award, maintaining Gold Standard
status since 2012 (S1);
• Implementation of LEED Gold certified design features on Town-owned
facilities during construction of the 2021 construction projects (water
conservation low-flow hands-free plumbing fixtures; daylighting; high
efficiency water fixtures and HVAC units; thermal comfort and control
systems; LIDs; drought resistant plantings; and rainwater harvest designs)
(W1, S1, and C3).
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3
Waste Reduction and Diversion
Objective D1: Implement sustainable construction practices to reduce waste,
incorporate sustainable design and reclaim or recycle materials.
Objective D2: Reduce waste going to landfill disposal.
• Included recycled concrete material as a provisional item as part of 2021 road
reconstruction project procurement to encourage sustainable construction and
building practices for Town infrastructure (D1);
• Integrated energy and waste reducing methodological practices as part of 2021
infrastructure maintenance and monitoring projects (integration of on-site helical
piles, repurposing of topsoil stockpiles, and integration of web-based
infrastructure maintenance and monitoring applications) (D1, D2, and C3);
• Integrated CB shields as part of 2021 storm pond reconstruction project (W2 and
D1);
• As part of the Town’s Waste Reduction Strategies, the Town has set 2018 as a
base year for tracking Community-level waste diversion rates (D2):
o 2018: 65%
o 2019: 65%
o 2020: 64%
o 2021: 66%;
• Council approved the Bag Tag Program, which aims to educate residents on
proper waste disposal practices and increase Town-wide waste diversion rates
(D2);
• Increased the number of multi-residential buildings within the Town’s recycling
program (D2).
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4
Biodiversity and Natural Heritage
Objective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by protecting and preserving biodiversity.
• Planted 1,900 trees and shrubs on Aurora lands (B1);
• As part of Aurora’s ecological enrichment strategy, a thirteenth partnership was
established in 2021 with the Adopt a Park Program and Partnership development
(Herb McKenzie Park) (B1);
• Maintained the partnership with York Region for invasive species control where
Phragmites, Garlic Mustard, Giant Hog Weed, and European Buckthorn were
targeted on regional frontage adjacent to Aurora parkland. Arboretum continued
work on Phragmites control (B1).
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5
Climate Change and Energy
Objective C1: Prepare a Climate Change Adaptation Plan.
Objective C2: Implement the Provincial Climate Change Plan Actions.
Objective C3: Reduce the Town’s greenhouse gas emissions by Town staff and at Town
facilities. * Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate Change Plan.
• As part of Aurora’s climate change adaptation initiatives, the Town had the kick-
off to their Climate Change Adaptation Plan and Green Development Standard in
2021 (C1);
• Integrated Aurora’s “Every Second Counts” public education campaign in 2021, as
part of the Council-approved Anti-Idling Policy, which aims to limit idling from
residents, businesses, and Town staff (C3);
• Council approved the Town’s first Green Fleet Action Plan and Electric Vehicle
Charging Station Policy, which aims to electrify the Town’s corporate fleet to
produce zero emissions by 2051 (C3);
• As part of Aurora’s commitment to the Provincial Climate Action Plan, the Town
had partnered with IVY Charge and installed eight (8) dual head level 2 chargers
at Town-owned facilities; with proposed actions on installing two (2) additional
dual head chargers as part of the Library Square Project (C3);
• Continued energy use tracking at Town Facilities (C3):
o 2018: 23,180,806 equivalent kilowatt-hours (Benchmark)
o 2019: 24,641,678 equivalent kilowatt-hours (~0.1% more than benchmark)
o 2020: 19,860,541 equivalent kilowatt-hours (~14.3% less than benchmark)
o 2021: 19,828,350 equivalent kilowatt-hours (~14.5% less than benchmark);
• Council approved $50,000 for the implementation of energy efficient measures
within Town-owned facilities, as part of effort to reduce corporate emissions (C3);
• Acquisition and implementation of energy efficient infrastructure within Town-
owned facilities (energy management software, LEDs, light control and
occupancy systems, building automation system) (C3);
• Generated 613,727 kilowatt-hours of electricity from Town solar rooftop systems
(C3);
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6
• Continue monthly Building Performance meetings with Facility staff and Energy
and Climate Change Analyst, to discuss ongoing energy projects, operational
changes, energy consumption, trends, best practices for energy conservation,
new technologies, utility incentives etc. (C3);
• Continued investigation of new technology to improve energy efficiency at SARC
using the Building Automation System innovation (C3);
• Performed a natural gas use audit under Enbridge's “Run it Right” program, which
served to implement low-cost energy conservation measures and operational
changes, resulting to annual GHG emission reductions of 5% and annual
operational costs of $3,700 at Town-owned facilities (C3);
• Integration of operational changes at Town-owned facilities, in effort to reduce
energy consumption during COVID 19 shutdown, resulted to an estimated energy
cost avoidance of $488,000 (~23% energy avoidance) in 2021.
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7
Environmental Awareness
Objective A1: Encourage the stewardship of Aurora‘s natural resources and advance
green initiatives by promoting community involvement.
• Continued efforts on updating the Town of Aurora website, providing the
community up-to-date information on the Town’s climate change initiatives and
plans (A1);
• Integration of Every Second Counts Town Anti-Idling education campaign, which
served as an education tool regarding the impacts of vehicle idling whilst
promoting anti-idling methodologies (A1);
• Integration of two (2) Community Environmental awareness GO Green
Challenges, which served to promote and encourage environmental awareness
initiatives at home (A1);
• Developed an enhanced Lymantria Dispar Dispar (LDD) strategy that includes
monitoring, robust communication plan, burlap kits, and watering and injection
treatments of select prominent trees (A1 and B1).
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8
ANNEX 1
2021 Building Energy Performance at Town Facilities
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9
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10
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11
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12
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13
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ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W1: Reduce town owned facility
water consumption
1 Action 1: Reduce corporate water
consumption (CWC)
To reduce corporate water consumption through
increased efficiency techniques such as::
• Computer-automated irrigation systems;
• Water-efficient landscaping;
• Rainwater harvesting; and
• Greywater collection and reuse
CMS -Facilities CWC Facility Total Develop annual CWC
reduction targets.
Q1 2020
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W1: Reduce town owned facility
water consumption
2 Action 1: Reduce corporate water
consumption (CWC).
To reduce corporate water consumption through
increased efficiency techniques such as::
• Computer-automated irrigation systems;
• Water-efficient landscaping;
• Rainwater harvesting; and
• Greywater collection and reuse
OPS- Parks CWC Parks Total Add CWC to Progress
Report
Q2 2020
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W1: Reduce town owned facility
water consumption
3 Action 2: Implement a water loss
reduction strategy
To implement a water loss reduction strategy,
involving the installation of updated water meters to
both residents and businesses and the relining of
aged sanitary sewer incrementally each year.
OPS - Water # of Water meters
installed per year
Add KPI’s to Progress
Report
Ongoing
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W1: Reduce town owned facility
water consumption
4 Action 2: Implement a water loss
reduction strategy
To implement a water loss reduction strategy,
involving the installation of updated water meters to
both residents and businesses and the relining of
aged sanitary sewer incrementally each year.
OPS - Water Sanitary sewer Km
relined per year
Add KPI’s to Progress
Report
Ongoing
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W2: To reduce the uncontrolled
and inadequately controlled storm water
areas with respect to both quality and
quantity by following recommendations of
the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water
Management Master Plan
5 Action 1: Investigate ways to enhance
and optimize the functioning of the
current storm water management facility
inventory
• Reducing the amount of phosphorus entering Lake
Simcoe via Tannery Creek and East Holland River;
• Restoring a self-sustaining coldwater fishery, where
possible;
• Improving water quality to meet Town’s, LSRCA, and
Lake Simcoe Protection Plan requirements;
PDS – Engineering # of storm water
ponds enhanced &
optimized from their
current function
(1 to 2 ponds enhanced
& optimized from their
current function)
2023 Q4
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W2: To reduce the uncontrolled
and inadequately controlled storm water
areas with respect to both quality and
quantity by following recommendations of
the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water
Management Master Plan
6 Action 2: Improve storm water quality in
all new road reconstruction projects.
To improve stormwater quality for all road
reconstruction projects, where possible, by installing
oil/grit separators or using Low Impact Development
(LID’s) to treat the road’s stormwater runoff.
• Implement the Stormwater Management (SWM)
Rate Program
• Develop a stormwater infrastructure maintenance
program and facility monitoring and inspection
program
• Update SWM Design Standards
• Develop low impact development (LID) design
guidelines/ incentives
• Apply LID techniques during
construction/renovation of infrastructure and Town
buildings
PDS – Engineering Km’s of road treated
by oil grit separators
or Low Impact
Development controls
As opportunity arises
as determined during
design of road
reconstruction projects
Ongoing Progress
to be reported
yearly in Q1
Page 193 of 202
ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W2: To reduce the uncontrolled
and inadequately controlled storm water
areas with respect to both quality and
quantity by following recommendations of
the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water
Management Master Plan
7 Action 3: Encourage at source storm
water management control measures on
private property.
• By developing and implementing a marketing
strategy to raise awareness within the community of
how they can manage their storm water within their
private properties and the positive impact this can
have; and
• By refining, updating or altering existing by-laws as
required related to implementing source control
measures on private property
• Source control measures on private properties
include rain barrels and rain gardens and on private
site plans include green roofs, vegetated swales, rain
gardens and permeable pavement.
PDS – Planning /
PDS – Engineering
# of source storm
water management
control measures on
private property
installed that the
Town is aware of /
year
Encourage residents to
install private LIDs such
as rain barrels during
public engagement &
design of road
reconstruction projects
Ongoing Progress
to be reported
yearly in Q1
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W2: To reduce the uncontrolled
and inadequately controlled storm water
areas with respect to both quality and
quantity by following recommendations of
the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water
Management Master Plan
8 Action 4: Investigate new practices that
may enhance pollution prevention
• Safer Alternative Products;
• Materials Storage Controls;
• Pool Drainage Controls;
• Erosion and Sediment Control;
• Cross Connection Control Program (ensuring
sanitary services do not outlet to a storm drainage
system);
• Public Education;
• Business Education and Awareness;
• Yellow Fish Road Program, in cooperation with York
Region;
• Salt Management measures; and
• Snow Disposal practices.
PDS – Engineering # of new practices
implemented to
enhance pollution
prevention
(5 new practices to
enhance pollution
prevention by 2023
2023 Progress to
be reported yearly
in Q1
SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Objective S1: Foster a sustainable green
development and alternate methods of
transportation to improve the quality of life
of Aurora’s residents and Town staff.
9 Action 1: Promote Sustainable
Transportation to Town staff
Various Sustainable Transportation initiatives to
reduce single occupancy vehicle use and maintain
the smart commute gold designation such as:
• Creating and offering flexible work hours
opportunity for staff
• Creating and supporting a telecommuting policy
• Designating carpooling parking spots at Town hall
• Encouraging employees to actively transport
themselves to work (cycle, walk)
• Encourage staff utilization of the e-bike share
program
• Offer discounted transit passes for Town staff
• *Increase bike parking at Town owned public
facilities for both staff and residents; and
• *Improve walking / cycling network including safer
grade-separated routes and cycling signals
Continue to implement and promote the Active and
Safe Routes to School Program:
This program focuses on active transportation to
increase physical activity of students to promote
healthy, active travel to and from school in the Town
of Aurora. Town staff in coordination with School
Boards and York Region community and health
services work with each school to develop a plan to
reduce barriers to walking, reduce traffic congestion
and increase walking and cycling safety skills.
PDS – Engineering
/
CS – HR
Annual Smart
Commute designation
Award (Maintain Gold
Standard)
Annual update on
Progress Report Q1
Ongoing
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ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Objective S1: Foster a sustainable green
development and alternate methods of
transportation to improve the quality of life
of Aurora’s residents and Town staff.
10 Action 2: Implement Sustainable
features in the construction or
reconstruction of Town infrastructure
including buildings, facilities and roads
CMS -Facilities /
PDS – Engineering
# and types of
sustainable features
installed on
construction projects
(1 sustainable feature
per construction
project, when feasible)
Ongoing, as
construction
projects arise.
SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Objective S1: Foster a sustainable green
development and alternate methods of
transportation to improve the quality of life
of Aurora’s residents and Town staff.
11 Action 3: Set up new areas for additional
community gardens in Aurora.
OPS- Parks # of community
gardens
Continue to explore
opportunities to add
additional community
gardens as appropriate
Ongoing
SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Objective S1: Foster a sustainable green
development and alternate methods of
transportation to improve the quality of life
of Aurora’s residents and Town staff.
12 Opportunity: Apply for green
infrastructure grant funding.
FS - Finance # of Town projects
funded/year
(2 Town projects
funded)
2023 Q2 Progress
to be reported
yearly in Q1
WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSION
Objective D1: Implement sustainable
construction practices to reduce waste,
incorporate sustainable design and reclaim
or recycle materials.
13 Action 1: Implement sustainable
construction and building practices for
all Town infrastructure including
buildings, facilities and roads
that considers ‘Sustainable Sites Guidelines’: .
• Reuse/recycle existing materials and support
sustainable production practices
• Maximize the efficient use of aggregates through
the recycling of recovered materials to minimize
waste volumes and utilize non-aggregate
supplements (e.g. shredded tires) to minimize
demand for new aggregates.
• Minimize effects of construction-related activities
• Maintain the site for long-term sustainability
• Utilize biodegradable and low impact green building
cleaning products.
PDS – Engineering # and types of
sustainable
construction practices
implemented that will
reduce waste
Development of best
practices
2021 Q4
WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSION
Objective D1: Implement sustainable
construction practices to reduce waste,
incorporate sustainable design and reclaim
or recycle materials.
14 Action 1: Implement sustainable
construction and building practices for
all Town infrastructure including
buildings, facilities and roads
that considers ‘Sustainable Sites Guidelines’: .
• Reuse/recycle existing materials and support
sustainable production practices
• Maximize the efficient use of aggregates through
the recycling of recovered materials to minimize
waste volumes and utilize non-aggregate
supplements (e.g. shredded tires) to minimize
demand for new aggregates.
• Minimize effects of construction-related activities
• Maintain the site for long-term sustainability
• Utilize biodegradable and low impact green building
cleaning products.
CMS -Facilities # and types of
sustainable
construction practices
implemented that will
reduce waste
Implementation of best
practices
As opportunity
arises
WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSION
Objective D1: Implement sustainable
construction practices to reduce waste,
incorporate sustainable design and reclaim
or recycle materials.
15 Action 1: Implement sustainable
construction and building practices for
all Town infrastructure including
buildings, facilities and roads
that considers ‘Sustainable Sites Guidelines’: .
• Reuse/recycle existing materials and support
sustainable production practices
• Maximize the efficient use of aggregates through
the recycling of recovered materials to minimize
waste volumes and utilize non-aggregate
supplements (e.g. shredded tires) to minimize
demand for new aggregates.
• Minimize effects of construction-related activities
• Maintain the site for long-term sustainability
• Utilize biodegradable and low impact green building
cleaning products.
OPS - Roads # and types of
sustainable
construction practices
implemented that will
reduce waste
Update tender
specifications to
promote sustainable
construction practices
and waste reduction
where feasible
2019 Q1 Progress
to be reported
yearly in Q1
Page 195 of 202
ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSION
Objective D1: Implement sustainable
construction practices to reduce waste,
incorporate sustainable design and reclaim
or recycle
materials.
16 Action 2: Develop a Green Procurement
Policy for the Town of Aurora and its
contractors.
FS - Procurement Develop KPI as part of
the Green
Procurement Policy
Prepare a Green
Procurement Policy for
Council consideration
2020 Q1
WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSION
Objective D2: Reduce waste going to landfill
disposal.
17 Action 1: Implement Waste Reduction
Strategies.
• A bag tag system and enforce 3 bag maximum
• A full recycling program with parks and open
spaces
• Increase the number of multi-residential buildings
within the recycling and green bin program
• Develop initiative to promote reduction and re-use
with radio, e-advertising and newspaper
• Develop a video campaign to increase awareness
about the current blue box and waste programs
• Amend the current by-law requiring residents to
source separate recyclables and organic materials
from the waste stream, including textiles, electronic
waste, household hazardous waste-batteries
• Capture baseline data of 3 stream diversion and
complete business case of effectiveness
• New Diversion options to be developed for public
events
• Implement fee for bulky waste items and appliances
OPS- Solid Waste % reduction of waste
from facilities
community/ year
Develop baseline to
measure the
opportunities to reduce
waste from Town
facilities/ year
2020 Q1 Progress
to be reported
yearly in Q1
BIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGE
Objective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by
protecting and preserving biodiversity.
18 Action 1: * Encourage ecological design
in landscaping of parks and retrofit
projects.
• Extending the area of natural grassland, wood edge
and increasing the core areas of existing woodlands
where possible
• Implement options to naturalize parks and include
landscaping for shade
• Develop a maintenance protocol to improve survival
of newly planted/restored areas
OPS- Parks Add 1 ecological
design feature in new
parks and park
retrofits / year
Consideration of
ecological design in all
new park design and
retrofits
Progress to be
reported yearly in
Q1
BIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGE
Objective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by
protecting and preserving biodiversity.
19 Action 2: Improve natural heritage
significant wildlife habitat.
• Re-evaluate by-laws that address wildlife feeding OPS- Parks List existing
partnerships and note
partnerships as they
occur
Ongoing partnerships
with schools,
Arboretum, Adopt-
aPark and bird box
program
Ongoing Progress
to be reported
yearly in Q1
BIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGE
Objective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by
protecting and preserving biodiversity.
20 Action 3: Implement the Urban Forest
Management Plan
• Promote Conservation authorities’ tree planting
programs to encourage planting trees on public and
private property
• Update standards and specifications for tree health,
including soil
OPS- Parks Track the # of trees
planted on Town
property / year
Plant an average of
1000 trees or shrubs /
year on Town property.
Progress to be
reported yearly in
Q1
BIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGE
Objective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by
protecting and preserving biodiversity.
21 Action 4: Implement the Invasive
Species Act in partnership with York
Region and the Province.
• Apply for grant funding to help annually reduce the
spread of invasive plant species
• Eradicate Noxious weeds within proximity to trails
and actively used public areas to make them
pedestrian friendly
OPS- Parks Complete 1 invasive
species pilot project
per year. Apply for 1
grants per 3 years
Document partnership
with other
organizations.
Progress to be
reported yearly in
Q1
Page 196 of 202
ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C1: Prepare a Climate Change
Adaptation Plan
22 Action 1: Identify climate change risks
by completing a vulnerability risk
assessment of key departmental
priorities.
PDS – Engineering
All relevant
departments to
contribute to risk
assessment
Creation
Completion date of
each climate change
risk assessment
Apply for funding,
document proposal
approvals
2020 Q3 for first
risk category
2021 Q3 for
second category
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C1: Prepare a Climate Change
Adaptation Plan
23 Action 2: Develop a Climate Change
Adaptation Action Plan that will assist
the Town to mitigate the risks of climate
change. The Plan would benefit from
climate change planning partnerships
with other municipalities, conservation
authorities and York Region.
PDS – Engineering The preparation of a
climate change action
plan approved by
Council
consultant fee - 2020
budget
2021 Q1
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C2: Implement the Provincial
Climate Change Plan Actions
24 Action 1: *Province Propose
amendments to Municipal Act.
PDS - Planning RMOY is the approval
authority for Official
Plan, amendments &
municipal
consolidation
Update the Town of
Aurora’s Official Plan
Ongoing
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C2: Implement the Provincial
Climate Change Plan Actions
25 Action 2: *Require electric charging in
surface lots.
PDS - Planning Develop KPI as part of
GDS
Add this requirement to
the Town’s
Development Policy
2021 Q4
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C2: Implement the Provincial
Climate Change Plan Actions
26 Action 3: *Set green development
standards.
PDS - Planning Develop KPI as part of
GDS
Prepare Green
Development Standards
(GDS) for Council
2020 Q4
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C2: Implement the Provincial
Climate Change Plan Actions
27 Action 4: *Eliminate minimum parking
requirements over the next 5 years for
municipal zoning bylaws.
PDS - Planning Develop KPI as part of
GDS
Add this requirement to
the Official Plan policy.
Encourage TDM to
replace parking
requirements within
development approval
process
2024 Q4
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C2: Implement the Provincial
Climate Change Plan Actions
28 Action 5: *Make climate change
mitigation and adaptation mandatory in
municipal official plans.
PDS - Planning Develop KPI as part of
GDS
Add this requirement to
the Official Plan policy
2021 Q4
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C3: Reduce the town’s
greenhouse gas emissions by town staff
and at town facilities.
* Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate
Change Plan
29 Action 1: Implement an anti-idling
initiative.
• To implement an anti-idling initiative that will
include working with schools to educate parents and
public. This will also include the implementation of an
anti-idling education campaign for town staff and
contractors.
CS – HR:
Organization of
training timing
OPS -Fleet
FS- procurement
Full time staff
completing anti-idling
training / year.
Year 1 include full time
staff who drive Town
vehicles. Train
remainder of staff.
All Staff trained
by Q2 2020.
Page 197 of 202
ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C3: Reduce the town’s
greenhouse gas emissions by town staff
and at town facilities.
* Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate
Change Plan
30 Action 2: *Develop a Green Fleet Plan.• To develop a corporate Green Fleet Plan that
addresses new green fleet procurement and
replacement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Plan should consider alternative fuels, higher
efficiency vehicles, hybrid and electric options that
meet the required need.
• Develop Electric Vehicle Charging Station usage fee
Policy and maintenance plan
• *Consider installing an EV charging station at SARC
PDS – Engineering
/
OPS - Fleet
Develop a KPI in
process of preparing
the Green Fleet Plan
Prepare a Green Fleet
Plan
Add to 2020 budget
2021 Q3
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C3: Reduce the town’s
greenhouse gas emissions by town staff
and at town facilities.
* Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate
Change Plan
31 Action 3: Improve energy efficiency of
existing building and business
operations
• Engage with town owned facility operators,
businesses and institutions to implement corporate
sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing GHG
emissions
• *Reduce emissions/ energy costs by implementing
energy conservation measures
CMS -Facilities Estimated Annual
energy savings of
newly implemented
energy retrofits in
Town owned facilities
Implement facility
energy and water
conservation measures
within the Capital Plan
List new energy
conservation
measures
implemented on
Progress Report
yearly in Q1
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C3: Reduce the town’s
greenhouse gas emissions by town staff
and at town facilities.
* Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate
Change Plan
32 Action 4: Consider all green
infrastructure options as part of new
corporate builds.
• Placing trees in and around Parking lots
• Redesign and retrofit water collection and
conveyance infrastructure due to climate change
Implement water quality and water and wastewater
conservation strategies and incentives
OPS - Parks /
OPS - Roads /
CMS - Facilities /
PDS – Engineering
# of green
infrastructure options
included in new
corporate projects
List chosen green
infrastructure items
implemented on
Progress Report
Ongoing, as
construction
projects arise.
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
Objective A1: Encourage the stewardship of
Aurora‘s natural resources and advance
green initiatives by promoting community
involvement
33 Action 1: Promote the use of reusable
water bottles in conjunction with the new
water bottle filling stations.
Communication campaign is aimed at
the community including staff and
should include but may not be limited to
the following:
• Waste caused by disposable water bottles
• Promote town’s municipal water as being clean,
safe and drinkable
• Promotion of Blue W, web application in order to fill
water bottles at no cost in participating businesses
• Town to partner with York Region’s education and
outreach programs for water conservation and local
water source protection
• Minimize disposable water bottle usage at group
organized events or meetings
PDS – Engineering # of existing
community events
sharing reusable
water bottle
information
Prepare messaging to
share at existing
community based
events.
First awareness
campaign to take
place in 2018
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
Objective A1: Encourage the stewardship of
Aurora‘s natural resources and advance
green initiatives by promoting community
involvement
34 Action 2: Increase overall community
awareness of climate change:
• Increase awareness of natural hazards from
flooding and erosion
• Increase public awareness and education on
stormwater management
• Promote idling reduction and education campaigns
(community/corporate)
• Public awareness campaigns encouraging good
behaviour using incentives supported by corporate
sponsorship
• Increase uptake of sustainable transportation
options
• Promote actions to reduce the creation of GHG
emissions and support our ability to adapt to climate
change
PDS – Engineering
/
CAO -
Communications
# of existing
community events
sharing Climate
Change information
Prepare messaging to
share at existing
community based
events.
2019 Q3
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ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
Objective A1: Encourage the stewardship of
Aurora‘s natural resources and advance
green initiatives by promoting community
involvement
35 Action 3: Develop an urban forest
communication plan that delivers key
messages to target audiences within the
community
• Promote “Adopt a Park” Program as “Community
Stewardship Program”
• Support and promote LEAF’s Backyard Planting
Program
• Support stewardship programs through planting
trees/shrubs/maintenance with partners LSRCA,
Arboretum, and Neighbourhood work
OPS – Parks /
CAO -
Communications
annual # of trees
planted
Continue to promote
planting and
naturalization projects
1000 trees
planted / year
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
Objective A1: Encourage the stewardship of
Aurora‘s natural resources and advance
green initiatives by promoting community
involvement
36 Action 4: Develop a community based
communications strategy to help protect
and enhance our biodiversity
• Provide targeted outreach for residents surrounding
the natural system via stewardship and education
programs
• Maintain an invasive species web page on the town
website linking residents to additional informational
websites
OPS – Parks /
CAO -
Communications
# of public outreach
campaigns promoting
and protecting
biodiversity
Increase signage
Increase partnerships
Ongoing
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 37 Action 1: CAO to support the ongoing
role of the Environmental
Management Team (EMT) to
manage the implementation of the
CEAP. The implementation team will
include representatives from all
departments and will report to ELT.
CAO and ELT Ongoing
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 38 Individual Departments, with the
assistance of EMT, will consider the
implementation of this Plan when
developing departmental priorities
and preparing budgets.
ELT and EMT As part of
annual budget
process
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 39 Implementation of CEAP to flow
through directors and CAO, who will
be responsible for assigning
respective departmental staff to
implement.
CAO and ELT ongoing
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 40 Staff are strongly encouraged to
reference the relevant CEAP
objectives in the Link to the Strategic
Plan section of all Council reports.
Staff report
writers
New / ongoing
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 41 The Program Manager of
Environmental Initiatives, to include
a semi-annual informal progress
update of CEAP’s implementation to
Council.
PDS –
Engineering
*New / Annual
in Q3
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 42 EMT, through department heads, to
report to council by way of annual
Progress Report regarding the
progress of the CEAP’s
implementation.
ELT and EMT Annually in Q1
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ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 43 The Green Initiatives Reserve Fund
(the “Fund”) is hereby established to
receive and hold donations or
budgetary contributions for purposes
of funding or lending funding for
projects or initiatives which further
the objectives or support the
strategic directions of the Town’s
Corporate Environmental Action Plan
as amended from time to time.
Council may direct that portions of
revenues or saving arising from
certain projects are to be contributed
to the Reserve Fund. Balances in the
Fund will be planned for specific
projects recommended to or by
Council during the annual budget
process, or other times throughout
the year, having consulted with the
Environmental Advisory Committee.
The Green Initiatives Reserve Fund
was established in September of
2012.
FS- Finance Ongoing
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 44 During the next (second) review and
enhancement of this plan,
Stakeholders are seeking to
strengthen the community
component which will include a
thorough and varied community
consultation process which engages
community members, local
businesses, staff and council with
the renewal of this Plan.
PDS-Engineering
CAO-
Communications
CEAP update to
be added to
2022 capital
budget
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 45 Develop, distribute and promote a
staff Environmental Handbook; to be
maintained and updated on the
intranet and printed and distributed
to new and existing staff during
Earth Week annually. The handbook
will highlight some new
environmental initiatives as well as
some basic energy saving and
environmentally friendly living tips.
PDS-Engineering
CAO-
Communications
Complete
version 1 of
handbook by Q2
2020
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ATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2021 TRACKING SHEET
Area Item #Actions Initiatives from CEAP Responsibility
Measures/ Key
Performance
Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target)Timeline
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 46 Set up a green team of staff who are
passionate about specific
environmental initiatives to advise
the project lead until the project is
being implemented. This team
should also help raise awareness,
promote various environmental
programs and choose to help at
various environmental events
throughout the year.
PDS-Engineering
CAO-
Communications
Form green
team by Q1
2020
CEAP IMPLEMENTATION 47 Youth Engagement on Environmental
Topics
PDS-Engineering
CAO-
Communications
ongoing
Page 201 of 202
Environmental Advisory Committee Update List – as of June 2022
This list provides an update to items which were brought to the Environmental Advisory
Committee (EAC) for comment under “Items for Consideration”. Committee contributions can
be found in the meeting minutes and the “Advisory Committee Review” section of General
Committee (GC)/Council reports.
This list will be updated and provided at regular bi-monthly scheduled meetings. Completed
items will be removed from subsequent updates.
Agendas, reports, and minutes can be found at www.aurora.ca/agendas.
2021 EAC Items
Meeting Date Item Status/Update
February 24, 2021
(minutes)
Round Table Discussion; Re:
Private Tree Protection By-law
No. 5850-16 (deferred from Jan.
25)
Ongoing
Tree by-law update pending.
November 24, 2021
(minutes)
Memorandum from Manager of
Economic Development and
Policy; Re: Streetscape Needs
Assessment
Ongoing
Consultation and assessment
ongoing; details to be provided
when available.
2022 EAC Items
Meeting Date Item Status/Update
February 23, 2022
(minutes)
Memorandum from Senior Policy
Planner; Re: Green Development
Standards Update - Phase 1
Planned Implementation
Completed
Staff report with EAC comments
considered by GC May 17, 2022;
GDS Phase 1 Implementation
Plan endorsed by Council May 24,
2022.
May 4, 2022
(minutes)
Memorandum from Energy and
Climate Change Analyst; Re:
Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Ongoing
Update to be provided to EAC in
June 2022.
May 4, 2022
(minutes)
Memorandum from Economic
Development Officer; Re:
Community Improvement Plan
Review Consultation
Ongoing
Staff report with EAC comments
considered by GC Jun. 7, 2022;
provides progress update on
internal review of CIP.
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