Al Ritchie Community Association - What Matters to You in Your Community Survey Version 1.2
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Al Ritchie Community Association
What Matters to You in Your Community Survey
Version 1.2
17 February 2021
DGMercer Eco Research - Aude Sapere
Jen Moffat
- Regina -
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
BACKGROUND
The Al Ritchie Community Association (ARCA) Board of Directors1, as part of a renewal, review and update of local policies and programming for the 8,235 residents
within its boundaries; commissioned an issue identification/community-based opinion survey of its residents and businesses within Al Ritchie2. The results of this ARCA
survey serve as grass-roots input into any near-term Neighbourhood Plan. It should be noted - this community-based survey is separate and distinct from a parallel and
competing City of Regina land use zoning survey which was released about a week after the ARCA survey. Results of this survey will be shared with the City of Regina
and any other interested Inner-City community associations. In addition, local businesses and organizations within the community will also receive copies.
The outcomes of this survey are intended to better understand what the Al Ritchie community itself wishes to plan towards. The survey is not an end-point, but merely
a beginning in an on-going dialogue regarding the needs and wishes of both the residents and small businesses within the community. The Al Ritchie community, with
its 6.3 percent increase in population between 2011 and 2016, is diverse and growing. Perceptions no longer match the current and the more positive reality. As such,
meaningful and on-going dialogue and discussion is necessary to develop programming and policy which accommodates the different requirements of each of the
unique smaller neighbourhoods within the larger Al Ritchie community. Al Ritchie needs to be planned from within for its current residents and many small businesses.
This survey was directed specifically at residential home-owners and renters within Al Ritchie. Conversely, the competing City of Regina online zoning survey does not
differentiate between Al Ritchie residents and persons and interests outside the ARCA boundaries3. Further engagement with the local Al Ritchie business sector is
recommended – it is important local businesses remain engaged in the future planning of the community. The ARCA Board should consider at least one (1) board
member to liaison with the many small businesses within the Al Ritchie community.
The Al Ritchie population is now larger than Melfort, Humboldt, Meadow Lake or Melville. As such; it presents as a small “city” within Regina. The geography of the 2.46
km2 neighbourhood is diverse – with a larger population than Melville but compressed into only 1/7 the land area! The current development density is 7.5 to 8.7 single
detached dwelling units per acre – well above the city average. The replacement of aging infrastructure is now a priority to support this existing housing density.
The number of vacant serviced lots in the Al Ritchie community is extremely low for an older inner-city neighbourhood – currently estimated at under 20 residential lots
out of a combined total of 2,515 single-detached residential lots. All available infill residential lots appear to have been taken up by normal market forces – a rare and
positive indicator for any mature, inner city neighbourhood. Current City programming to stimulate additional higher density residential infill development may not be
warranted. Should there be a future demand for larger infill development – this should follow a standard Utility Master Plan Study to determine existing and future
infrastructure capacities – all part of a logical and sustainable development approach. Several survey responses already denote sewage capacity problems.
In conclusion, the following initial results of the ARCA-based survey are included in this first report. Again, this survey was designed to identify the positive merits and
also the challenges facing all residents within the Al Ritchie community. Further consultations and dialogue with residents of Al Ritchie will continue over the coming
years to support the community from within.
NOTE: The first stage results of the ARCA survey results are included in this report – additional analysis and results will be released later in 2021 and 2022.
1
The ARCA Board oversees the Al Ritchie Community Association which is non-profit organization first founded in 1987.
2
Results of the May 2021 Canada Census may not be known until late 2022 – as such, the 2016 Canada Census data will have to suffice until updated information becomes available.
3
Non-Al Ritchie residents are able to complete the City of Regina survey which is a zoning and house-form related survey – and several examples of external survey completions are known.
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 2Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Executive Summary The Al Ritchie Community Association (ARCA) Board commissioned this issue identification survey to better understand the important values of the Al Ritchie community residents; and also, the issues causing them concern. This survey was directed at residents of Al Ritchie – there was a conscious effort to ensure only Al Ritchie residents were counted. Canada Post delivered one printed survey to each household with a stamped return envelope – a printed paper survey ensures that all households are able to complete and return a survey. The questions in this survey were designed to be “open-ended” – as such, residents had no restrictions on their comments. However; the number of responses was limited for statistical design purposes. The results, as presented below, represent Al Ritchie residents - in their own words. Results of this survey will be used by the ARCA Board in both refined community programming and other planning matters. Al Ritchie residents were asked to identify the most endearing positive features of their community – features which they wish to protect and preserve into the future. In addition, residents were then asked to provide a second list of problem issues - items causing them distress and which need to be corrected in the shorter-term. Additional questions sought to expand on these two main themes. The survey results are summarized in five (5) simple summary graphs with short explanations. It is hoped these summary graphs will serve as discussion points for Al Ritchie residents when they interact with each other and also with their ARCA board to continue to improve the life of all Al Ritchie area residents. This ARCA survey will be widely circulated with other groups in Regina including the City of Regina. Democracy requires free and unfettered discussion and dialogue before consequential decisions are made. Further ARCA reports will be released over the next 18 months. In addition, survey comments 4 received are documented in Appendix A for readers to see the full results. The results in Appendix A are useful in better understanding the collective and fundamental aspirations of the Al Ritchie residents – as represented in their own words. 4 Two (2) comments from the total set of comments in Appendix A were censored as they were offensive. Two additional comments listed either a person’s name or address – in this case the identifying information was removed. Overall, the comments received were deemed to be honest, constructive and collectively represent the residents of the Al Ritchie community. 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 3
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
The key highlights of this ARCA survey are as follows:
Key positive attributes of Al Ritchie are the result of the longer-term growth of Regina since the Second World War. As a result, the “inner-city” nature
of the Al Ritchie community between the Downtown and Wascana Park has resulted in a mature and affordable neighbourhood with a central location,
ease of travel and access to a wide range of neighbourhood amenities. There is a heritage quality to both the smaller houses and the mature trees
which people value. There also appears to be a strong social inter-connection between neighbours across age and income groups.
Conversely, within this mature and tight-knit neighbourhood, the emerging challenges are obtrusive infill housing forms, concerns the aging underlying
infrastructure is beginning to fail, perceptions of petty crime increasing, traffic management issues including congested on-street parking and finally
municipal bylaw enforcement. These issues appear to stem from an underlying desire to retain the essential character of the neighbourhood including
the existing streetscapes.
Matters of immediate importance (within the next 3 years) identified three (3) priority areas. Social programming - and likely influenced by the isolation
imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic; was ranked highest5. This issue area should draw the attention of both the ARCA Board and the City of Regina.
Infrastructure issues, including concerns about sewage line failures and municipal service delivery levels ranked second. The third short-term priority
action item, again, related to housing issues with a desire for fewer infill houses, a desire to retain higher home ownership levels and a support program
for house maintenance.
Moving into a neighbourhood is a deliberate decision often based on specific attributes and personal values. In the survey, residents listed affordability
and then central location plus close amenities as key factors in their decision. This was followed by a strong sense of community, the heritage homes
with mature landscaping. Inter-generational and friendship linkages was a further attraction suggesting a strong community cohesion.
Finally, residents were provided with a final “catch-all” opportunity to offer up additional comments. Three highlights included further emphasis on
infrastructure uses, municipal service levels and housing issues including more comments on infill housing. A very unique element in third priority was
a general community “bouquet” to itself – quite extra-ordinary in an “open-ended” survey of this type.
In conclusion, the results of this transparent survey provide Al Ritchie residents with a means to articulate their needs and wants for the future - and in
their own words. As such, it is deemed to be statistically representative of the Al Ritchie community.
5
The ARCA Board should undertake a re-examination of existing programming and also future programming requirements of the various groups in the community. Shifts in programming needs may
be occurring with new groups of clients emerging. Wherever possible, economies of scale should be examined to keep the costs affordable while maximizing utilization.
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 4Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Table of Contents Page Background 2 Executive Summary 3 Introduction 6 Five Planning / Survey Sectors forming Al Ritchie Community 7 Most Important Neighbourhood Features as Ranked by residents of Al Ritchie 8 Most Important Neighbourhood Challenges as Ranked by Residents of AL Ritchie 9 Prioritized Actions as Ranked by Residents of Al Ritchie - Within 3 Years 10 Reasons for Choosing to Live in Al Ritchie Community Association 11 Additional Important Comments by Residents of Al Ritchie 12 Appendix A Complete Listing of All Comments Received from the Al Ritchie Community Association Survey 13 Appendix B Other Collected Information from Al Ritchie Community Association Questionnaire 38 Appendix C Al Ritchie Community Association Background Summary 40 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 5
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
Introduction
T he What Matters to You in Your Community Survey was conducted by Al Ritchie Community Association (ARCA) Board in late January and early
February 2021 as part of the review and development of policy and programming for the 8,235 residents in the east-central Regina
neighbourhood. In addition, the results of this survey should be used in providing statistically valid input into proposed City of Regina
neighbourhood re-zoning plans 6 being contemplated. This ARCA survey was designed and analyzed by DGMercer Eco Research 7 based in Regina with
major support of Jen Moffat from the community.
The ARCA survey conducted the sampling using a prepared paper questionnaire and postage-paid return envelope which was forwarded to almost
4,000 Al Ritchie households in late January and early February 2021 – there were delays in delivery by Canada Post owing to the extremely cold
weather. The preliminary results, at an area-wide level, are summarized in a series of graphs and comments. Sub-zone results will be analyzed and
presented later. Additional surveys are expected to be received; however, these subsequent returns will not statistically alter the results.
As part of a transparent and democratic process, all collected comments are included in full in Appendix A. 8 Readers are encouraged to examine
the grouped comments for additional insight into the observations and comments of the Al Ritchie community. The comments are insightful.
The objective of this exercise was to develop a profil e of the more important issues for the Al Ritchie Community Association – in the form of a
simple and modified SWOT 9 test. The statistical format of the questions was designed to generate a binomial distribution - determine what the
quiet majority of residents felt on issues in a prioritized manner. Results were categorized and graphed with short explanations.
The profile asked the following questions: what are the important attributes of Al Ritchie resident’s value and wish to protect, what are the issues
which are cause for concern, what is the preferred future (common community vision) within 10 years and to rank the shorter-term action items
residents believe are important. There was an optional question regarding geographic location within Al Ritchie to ensure uniform survey coverage
in all sub-regional of Al Ritchie, what attracted the reader to move into the Al Ritchie community and a final option to offer any other additional
comments. Again, all comments received to date are listed in Appendix A.
6
The City of Regina; already aware of the ARCA survey, decided to conduct its own online survey about a week later – this has caused some confusion among residents of Al Ritchie. In addition, the
extremely cold weather resulted in some delays by Canada Post in delivering this survey to some parts of Al Ritchie. Nevertheless, a representative ARCA survey result has been obtained.
7
DGMercer Eco Research – Aude Sapere is operated by D.G. Mercer, an experienced and registered professional urban and regional planner with over 35 years experience in urban planning in western
Canada and eastern Europe. In addition, D.G. Mercer was employed by the City of Regina for 20 years and is intimately familiar with its municipal planning issues. Jen Moffat is a resident of Al Ritchie
and is intimately familiar with the Al Ritchie Community. Survey distribution, data tabulation and some of the analysis was undertaken by Jen Moffat.
8 Only two (2) comments were edited out – they were inappropriate. This very small editing does not affect the survey results in the least.
9 SWOT = Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat exercise.
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 6Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
Five Planning / Survey Sectors forming Al Ritchie Community
For purposes of the ARCA survey, the following five (5) sub-areas were established with residents given the option of listing the closest intersection to
their dwelling. Survey results were anonymous, however; this option was used to attempt to ensure a uniform distribution of responses from all areas
of the Al Ritchie Community Association neighbourhood. In general, major arterial boundaries were used – the exception being sub-zone 5. Over
8,200 people live within the boundaries of the Al Ritchie Community Association – each sub-region has its own unique features.
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 7Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
Most Important Neighbourhood Features as Ranked by residents of Al Ritchie 10
250
200
150
100
50
0
Central Location, Quiet, Safe Heritage Character, Lots of Trees & Parks Housing Affordability Community Diversity Other General
Ease of Travel & Neighbourhood with Mature Family – Family Friendly Answers
Good Amenities Community Spirit Housing & Nice
Yards
These are assets and values which should be considered for protection and fostering within the community by the ARCA Board and the City
• Central location, ease of travel and good neighbourhood amenities – very dominant for Al Ritchie residents – location is important
• Quiet and safe with community spirit – suggests a strong social connection between neighbours
• Smaller heritage character homes, mature yards and trees of third highest value for Al Ritchie residents
• Surprise comments regarding trees as a key asset – recommend extra attention to tree maintenance and protection
• Housing affordability was ranked fifth highest – even upper income households like the lower cost real estate
• Community diversity – another mild surprise comment cluster – anecdotical comments suggest “New Canadians” favour Al Ritchie
10 A full listing of all grouped comments received has been included in Appendix A attached to this survey report in order to present full disclosure and transparency of results.
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 8Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
Most Important Neighbourhood Challenges as Ranked by Residents of AL Ritchie
250
200
150
100
50
0
Housing Infrastructure & Crime & Safety Parking, Traffic & Lack of Amenities Poverty, Social Environmental Neighbourhood
Municipal Services Bylaw Issues and Costs Issues Plan & Other Misc.
Enforcement of Living Issues
Issues
These are issues which require attention, correction, regulation and/or management by both the ARCA Board and the City
• Housing issues; including no more infill housing, high rise development or more rental properties. (See Appendix A for detail breakdown)
• Infrastructure issues and municipal service levels – also ranked high under a broad range of issues – City should improve service levels
• Crime and safety issues – generally petty crime and vandalism was noted – serious crime was not mentioned once (positive)
• Congested on-street parking, traffic management issues and bylaw enforcement was also a high priority
• Lack of amenities coupled with poverty and social issues was significantly lower – outside perception of area may be incorrect
• Global environmental issues were a low priority – while local environment (trees, park amenities, gardens etc.) ranked higher
• Limited interest in a Neighbourhood Plan - also a “potpourri” of miscellaneous general comments – current evolution is already good
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 9Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
Prioritized Actions as Ranked by Residents of Al Ritchie - Within 3 Years
Bylaw Enforcement Issues
Traffic Management Issues
Policing & Crime Prevention
Housing Issues
Infrastructure & Municipal Services
Social Programming & Green Spaces & Other
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
These are prioritized action items for both the ARCA Board and the City to consider
• Social programming and elements related to green spaces has top immediate priority – likely influenced by the COVID-19 disruption
• Infrastructure improvements - sewer, water, drainage, roads, garbage and road repairs are important to Al Ritchie residents
• Housing issues include: less infills, fewer new rental dwellings and house repair incentives (more research on house form required)
• Policing and crime prevention – more patrols and more visibility are asked for but of lower priority – suspect crime is more petty
• Traffic management issues and bylaw enforcement issues are of lower, immediate priority
• ARCA Board should re-examine local social programming in a post-COVID-19 scenario
• City of Regina should re-examine infrastructure issues and municipal service delivery levels
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 10Reasons for Choosing to Live in Al Ritchie Community
Misc. Comments
Long-term Family/Friend Relationship to Al Ritchie
Heritage Character – Mature Landscaping
Nice Safe Neighbourhood with Good Neighbours
Location and Close to Amenities
Affordability
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Ranking of Reasons for Choosing to Live in Al Ritchie
• Affordability and a location close to amenities were very dominate – lower cost housing close to parks, schools and shopping
• A strong sense of “community” is exhibited within the many comments – people know their neighbours and talk to each other
• Heritage character, mature landscaping – coupled with inter-generational family and friend connections is strong
• The Al Ritchie Community is a strong and stable community with smaller but affordable housing for over 8,000 people in Regina
• The Inner City needs more communities with the vitality of Al Ritchie – improper re-development may damage its social fabricAl Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
Additional Important Comments by Residents of Al Ritchie
Other Misc. Comments
Neighbourhood Plans and General Planning
Parks and Recreation Comments & Environmental Issues
Health, Wellness, Social Programming and Facilities
General Bouquets – Like Al Ritchie Neighbourhood
Comments on Housing, Infill Development and General Land Uses
Infrastructure and Municipal Services & Bylaw Enforcement
0 5 10 15 20 25 30
Residents provided additional comments
• In general, these comments tend to reinforce earlier comments - no new issues are raised in this "catch-all" question
• Infrastructure, municipal service levels and bylaw enforcement – with more specific examples
• Housing, infill development and general land uses were expanded upon
• Very unusual – however; third highest set of comments were bouquets to the Al Ritchie community itself – quite unique situation
• Strong interest in more social programming across several age groups
• Parks, recreation and environmental issues – lower number of comments
• Neighbourhood Plan of little interest – concerns covered previously
• Wide range of individual comments on miscellaneous items
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 12Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
Appendix A
Complete Listing of All Comments Received from the
Al Ritchie Community Association Survey of February 2021
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 13Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Three Most Important FEATURES that YOU like or value about YOUR community. Central Location, Ease of Travel & Good Amenities 197 Ability to get to any part of the city with ease Close proximity to Wascana Park Access to many city facilities Close to ambulance Access to parks Close to amenities Access to parks and recreation Close to amenities (grocery, gas, parks, etc.) Access to transit Close to amenities (store, pharmacy, hospital, restaurants Good bus service Close to church Access to Wascana Park Close to downtown Accessibility to amenities; central location Close to downtown Accessible (but not attractive); Mix of classes - we can be a positive pivot for life Close to downtown (work), University, East end shopping Accessible spray park Close to downtown, schools Al Ritchie Arena, Park, Library, Spray Park Close to everything Al Ritchie Centre Close to fire hall Al Ritchie centre; Maple Leaf pool Close to high school Al Ritchie Community Centre, Arena Close to hospital Al Ritchie Community Centre, water park, rink, tennis court, etc. Close to hospital Al Ritchie outdoor rink Close to hospital, store, fire dept Al Ritchie play park Close to Library Activities Close to main travel roads (Vic Ave) ARCA rec programs Close to many amenities - Library, several parks, Ring Rd All amenities at hand Close to my work All essential shops are nearby Close to Park Amenities on Broadway Ave Close to Park Area/Community; Love the schools in our area; Love the rink, library & parks. Close to Park Central and easy access to all parts of the city Close to school Central location and ease of access to major roadways Close to school & church Central to many amenities Close to services Central to shopping Close to services, walking distance Centralized without being central Close to shopping Centrally located Close to shopping mall Church; Daycare Centres Close to the downtown core Churches Close to the Park Churches; outside skating rink Close to the Park (Wascana) Close amenities Close to the park, walking distance Close amenities, groceries, parks, insurance, etc. Close to Wascana Park Close proximity or access to most parts of the city Close to Wascana Park Close proximity to Arcola and Victoria Avenues Close to Wascana Park Close proximity to Wascana centre Close to work and downtown Close proximity to Wascana centre Community based 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 14
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Community garden Its location (convenient distance to work) Community hubs like the Rink & Library Library Convenience of location Library Convenient location Library and green areas around it Convenient location Library close by Convenient location between downtown and East End amenities Library is close by Convenient location in relation to downtown & services Like have the skating rink & library near us Convenient location to East end Live close to the park Convenient to get to any area of the city Local grocery store Crescent Park Location Crescent Park, open grass space Location Ease of access Location Ease of access to Arcola & Park Location Easy access in and out of the city Location Easy access to both downtown and out of the city Location Easy access to get anywhere in the city. Location - close to park, grocery, dentist, library, hospital, etc. Easy access to go anywhere in the city Location - proximity to Wascana Park and downtown, RG Hospital, University, Easy access to green areas/spaces Grocery Store Easy access to public parks Location!! Easy access to services Location; easy to access downtown & Ring Rd Easy access to Victoria Ave, Arcola and Sask Dr Lots of services Easily accessible Maple Leaf Park/swimming Easy to get to all areas, Ring Road access Maple Leaf swimming pool Easy to get to downtown, Ring Rd, Arcola Ave Miller High School Essential amenities all within 10min drive Nearby school, parks, library (amenities) Excellent Al Ritchie facility Neighbourhood Centre Good schools Newer built school and sense of community Great access to downtown and major shopping areas Nice park nearby Great community resources available - Library, Rink, Sports Programs, etc. Outdoor activities skating place Great location close to downtown Outdoor parks Green spaces nearby, Wascana Park etc. Outdoor skating rink Greenspace, park, pool Outdoor spaces, parks, trees, etc. Having a multi-use facility, library, playground, rink, Al Ritchie Centre, etc. (I wish the Park (Gocki) and spray pad updated pool - Maple Leaf- would have been relocated on this property Parks/Trees Having the Al Ritchie Community Centre so close by Prince of Wales Library Heritage/central location (trees, alleys) Proximity to City Centre and shopping Hospital, clinic, drug store are close Proximity to downtown Hospital, Police and Fire close by Proximity to downtown - within walking distance for someone who works here I can walk to many places/stores etc. Proximity to downtown / major arteries Important amenities are close - groceries, drug store, library Proximity to downtown and The Park In center area - close to downtown Proximity to downtown, Wascana Lake/Park Its central location close to lake, downtown, shopping, U of R; Open area - you know Proximity to Library what is happening (in the neighbourhood) more than if living where (there) are big Proximity to Library, hospital, Milky Way houses Proximity to park 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 15
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Proximity to Park and downtown The Al Ritchie Centre Proximity to parks The Community Centre and Library Proximity to parks The Dance School Proximity to parks and green spaces The Library Proximity to schools The park nearby Proximity to schools The Pool Proximity to services (i.e.: groceries, restaurants, etc.) The Recreation Centre Proximity to Wascana Centre The Rink! Lots of family fun! Proximity to Wascana Park The shops on 15th and development (business and residential) Proximity to Wascana Park & Douglas Park Use of gymnasium - not only for exercise Quick access to most of the city Variety of services Recreation, Wascana Park is close, Community Centre Walkable Schools nearby plus grocery store and mini mall Walkable to downtown in decent weather Schools nearby; Wascana Lake Walking and biking paths & outdoor pool Short Bike ride/drive to work downtown Wascana Park Skating rink Wascana Park and walking trails/paths Small, central Water park; skating rink outdoor Space to practice playing Disc Golf We like the convenience of getting around the city -close to lots of major drag Space to teach/instruct young Disc Golfers Quiet, Safe Neighbourhood with Community Spirit 81 24hr safety for the public/residents Great neighbours Community Great neighbours Community events (friendly for kids) I don’t see crime Community involvement I feel a 'sense of belonging' because my neighbours care about me. Invariably I find Community Spirit myself chatting with someone when I go for a walk. Community; neighbours look after each other I feel safe going for a daytime walk Everyone looks out for everyone else it’s fairly quiet - the traffic noise is minimal Family feeling to neighbourhood It’s quiet Feel safe It’s quiet and peaceful, there's a sense of safety with current neighbours Feel very safe Low Crime Feeling of safety More Policing Feeling safe as I walk around the neighbourhood Mostly family friendly and fairly safe For most part a safe area except for drugs, prostitutes and homeless Mostly quiet Friendly My 'area' near Arcola school is fairly quiet Friendly Nice Friendly neighbours Our area started to become more quiet and peaceful Friendly neighbours Our friendships of 50yrs still here Friendly neighbours / volunteers Peaceful yet active folks General feeling of safety and friendliness People are friendly Good neighbours People are friendly and respectful Good neighbours People sharing common values Great neighbours Problem free 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 16
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Quiet Safe Quiet Safe - new neighbours - young couples Quiet Safe and the grocery store employees know us Quiet Safe living environment Quiet Safe place to live Quiet Safe, peaceful neighbourhood Quiet Safety Quiet Safety - feeling of safety Quiet Safety - my house has been broken into and car parked on back of my yard on my Quiet driveway Quiet - for the most part Safety / low crime neighbourhood Quiet and peaceful Safety and walkability to many parks/green spaces Quiet community Small Quiet for the most part, not a lot of traffic, no trains Small community feeling Quiet residential env ‘t Some neighbours friendly Quiet, friendly community The area is quiet Quietness The peace and quiet in the area Relatively quiet and low traffic on our immediate street Walkability Safe We know our neighbours and look out for one another. Safe Heritage Character, Mature Family Housing & Nice Yards 53 Back alley access It is not overcrowded - so far Character It is not overcrowded - so far Character - variety in homes Large lots with alley ways with generally good distance between houses Character and individuality of houses - compared to newer areas where everything Large lots with alley ways with generally good distance between houses looks similar Large yard Character homes Large yard Character homes Looks and feels like a neighbourhood being taken care of Character homes and big trees Mature neighbourhood Clean Mature trees; character houses Clean Maturity Clean yard Most houses are kept up well Clean yard Most of the housing units are single unit homes and not large apartments Clean yards Most places in my area are clean and well maintained Clean yards Neighbourhood character; varied collection of house forms that are typical of their Cleanliness period in time Diversity of housing options Neighbourhood character; varied collection of house forms that are typical of their Family dwellings period in time General maintenance of streets and area New construction replacing old disrepair structures Green spaces & single bungalow housing Nice, clean neighbourhood; residents show pride Heritage Not a lot of big apartment buildings Heritage style homes Old character How everyone values their homes and keep their yards nice and clean 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 17
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Older (character) neighbourhood with pride of ownership and many renovated The features we like about the neighbourhood is the maturity houses The small, quaint character homes Older houses The variety of the original homes in the area People value the character of the neighbourhood Uniqueness of architecture, character homes Perfect area to raise a family Uniqueness of each house The distinct character/history Wide streets, big trees, small homes The eclectic beauty of the area i.e.: houses/trees/yards Our Street has NO infills Lots of Trees & Parks 25 All the trees; close to park Park Community garden Parks Flowers patch Parks and green spaces; bike paths Green space Parks and open spaces Green spaces Space Greenery The large trees Have a garden The streetscapes and proximity of the Park I love all the trees! Treed neighbourhood is nice Large yards Treed streets, closeness to Wascana Park Lots of parks Trees Many parks Trees Mature neighbourhood - trees Trees, outdoor Rink, tennis courts, open field, playground, water park Mature trees in the area & back alleys Housing Affordability – Family Friendly 17 Affordable and down to earth Low property taxes; small lots The variety of housing options and styles Affordable housing Affordable The Ability to attract young families and maintain older home owners Affordable Affordable and diverse neighbourhood Affordable housing market Affordable and diverse neighbourhood Community feeling with affordable character housing The affordable grocery initiatives for low income households and activities for Affordability for nice housing youth/kids. Affordable rent Reasonable property taxes Affordable I see less rentals and more young families enjoying our neighbourhood Community Diversity 14 Diversity We maintain a mixed community of all ages Diverse Diversity Mosaic, Culture (diversity) Demographics of neighbourhood Mix of all ages Young families/Senior Variety of people Mid aged people in neighbourhood Diversity - all nations welcome Lots of young families Diversity of neighbours A lot of young families 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 18
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Other General Answers 18 Arcola bridge over Ring Rd very rough and bumpy - rest of Arcola ok It has potential (if City of Regina & SK Govt would invest in people and economy) Back alley garbage little vehicle traffic Back alleys are charming More business on 15th Ave Better street cleaning Parking off street, lots available, big lots Buses (need shelters) Winnipeg St, Vic, North & South Started to know your neighbours Community dinners & clothing bank The ARCA Board Community Events; Rockin' The Ritchie, BBQ's The friendly bunnies and squirrels and birds Grid road system with public transit Transparency of decision Homes are getting removed Walking friendly - especially for dog owners 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 19
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Three Most Important CHALLENGES facing your community? Housing 88 A few rundown houses and lack of yard upkeep Keeping the homes affordable Absentee owners/speculators Keeping the housing affordable Bad people living in rental property; Huge new homes on small properties being built Keeping the “McMansion'' type houses out that allow neighbours no sun or privacy Inappropriate infill housing not compatible to the neighbourhood and have no character [company named removed] Incomplete infilling (lot clearing) Keeping ugly infill housing from replacing beautiful old homes inconsistent City Policy on allowable size of housing; oversized, hard energy drain $, Vacant houses, deterioration of houses, look of eye sores We don’t want high 2 storey houses Increase in properties enveloped with rental homes When older homes are torn down people should be consulted before new home Infill housing built Infill housing - good if appropriate to neighbourhood/bad when it crowds and blocks Upkeep of rental homes sun from much smaller houses Ugly big flat roofed in-fill houses that don't compliment their neighbours, too tall & Infill houses block light Infill housing Too many rentals! Party houses; Too noisy at times Infill housing The ugly infill houses Infills The infill housing not fitting into the neighbourhood Infills creeping up street by street The neighbourhood plan the City of Regina is trying to put into place has NOT been Infills full of transient people -no roots no pride approved by residents. Lack of notice. Lack of support. Lack of listening that this Infills that are rentals (they don’t upkeep yards) area has 4 distinct areas with distinct needs. NO MORE 2 storey infills. Infills that look out of place Too many multi-unit rentals that take up all the parking and are noisy. Infills turning our community into cement blocks Too many rental properties, not enough owned by its resident Aging residential housing Too many rental suites make parking on street impossible Balancing heritage homes with new infills that suit the neighbourhood Too many rentals - slum landlords - old houses, careless tenants Deteriorating housing; design Regina's goals include the maintenance upgrading of New houses don’t fit in with the neighbourhood housing stock. The City needs to "GET ON WITH IT". NO MORE 2 & 3 storey buildings Dilapidated housing Older homes being replaced by structures that impost on surrounding properties Encouraging home maintenance (and yard) Rent houses / renters (new) High number of rental duplexes being built Rental house (2325) throw garbage through window into back yard. Messy back High rise developments yard. Junk in back yard. Broken fence from leaning stuff on. Stones (boulders against Houses falling into disrepair fence. Can’t clean weeds up. Houses that do not fit area Rental houses having parties, fights, noise Issues around apartment / multi-family dwellings (rentals) Rental properties Issues around rental properties Rental properties poorly maintained Keeping down the number of infill duplex, triplex, apartments, etc. Rental properties rented to druggies Keeping it without infills Rental properties! More of a transition neighbourhood, unfortunately Rental property - low income tenants damaging things Multi rental housing Rentals Multi rental housing Rentals; the construction of new homes that don’t fit in at all Keeping the area affordable to first time buyers and renters 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 20
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Problem houses - residents who are frequently intoxicated, receive visits from the Too many absent landlords not keeping rental units in good repair Police and PQHR needle van Many homes are vacant on every street Problematic infill housing - large, multi-dwelling structures replacing small More and more rental houses bungalows, some of these are unsightly and then there are parking issues already - Apartment congested streets. Construction may result in drainage and foundation issues for Disrespectful renters (don’t keep yards clean) existing homes. Elevator house rebuilds on single/divided lots; cutting down Mature trees Run down homes Huge elevator houses on 25ft lots shadowing surrounding houses Slum landlord situations Large rental turnover Slum landlords not looking after rentals Larger infills taking sunlight Social & subsidized housing doesn’t have to be ugly Less taller homes To many duplexes NOT kept up Limited parking due to Air B&B's Unkempt houses/yards - weeds and mice Fewer young families, a lot of turnover Zoning/infill housing/massage parlors Increasing transience Too tall infill housing on our tiny 25ft lots Infrastructure & Municipal Services 77 15th Ave. stinks like sewage Old deteriorating infrastructure; stench of sewer gas is overwhelming in some areas Aging infrastructure with yearly rising taxes Old infrastructure Bad streets Poor and extremely bad road condition (Froom Cres) Constant smell of sewer in summer Poor planning; alley ways paved then torn up for one reason or another Aging sewer infrastructure Poor quality roads - holes, bumps, standing water (mosquitos growing) Deteriorating infrastructure Poor roads Drainage Poor sidewalks Infrastructure aging (sidewalks, sewers, water mains) snow clearance Infrastructure, absurd amounts of new traffic that drives through Al Ritchie to get to Snow piled on the street the East end; road repairs needed, sewage smell, poor drainage NOT being Snow plowing the alley (my car drags snow when the ruts are deep) addressed. Snow removal Lead pipes Snow removal Lead water lines Snow removal Lead water lines and insane prices to pay for water unfit for consuming Snow removal Lead water pipes Snow removal on the streets Alley always needed it graded Snow removal slow Alley maintenance slow Street and road kept up Alley sometimes need asphalt Street and sidewalk maintenance Alleys are congested Street condition Alleys are plowed - streets are rough and never plowed Streets having buildup of snow in winter Back lane mess (weeks, garbage, furniture, etc., and garbage bins scattered) Keeping sidewalks walkable - hedges are overgrown into them and growing too high Road conditions on corners & concrete is broken Road repair Keeping streets repaired Road repair sucks (pot holes/sunken parts of road) sewage - stink Roads and sidewalks that desperately need repair Sewer drainage Roads in poor condition Shoveling snow during the winter Rough streets and avenues and sidewalks Sidewalk conditions 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 21
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Sidewalks and roads no accessibility - in bad shape and not safe for walking. Utilities maintenance and upgrade Sidewalks not properly taken care of Very little street cleaning in winter (snow ploughing) Lack of infrastructure repair by the City Blue and Brown bins scattered and hard to get through when we are in and out; put Poor snow removal into proper place Poor street maintenance Power failures and surges Poor winter maintenance - low walkability for our seniors/disabled! Lack of snow removal on side streets (College Ave) Poorly maintained properties, graffiti, poorly behaved and disrespectful kids at Gocki Sometimes water basins clog Park; Better snow removal in school vicinity Sometimes litter is a lot Cutting the grass Promoting upgrading and maintenance of properties - taking pride in all the Enforcing keeping weeds down & minimum landscaping neighbourhood Feels like a "dirty" neighbourhood Maintenance of the asphalt on back alley and streets Getting home owners to take pride in the upkeep of their homes More lighting in alley ways Water pipe breakage Overhead power lines Water, sewer, sidewalk rejuvenation and replacement Sightline at intersections, overgrown trees/hedges (City & private) and fences too Sagging street - future sinkholes? Crime & Safety 74 Safety Security Safety - there is a criminal element Rising crime - break & enter, mischiefs, graffiti Safety (Car theft, garage break ins) Theft Safety at night Theft Safety issues in winter - people don’t shovel - hard to walk Theft Crime Safety. Intoxicated people walking around at night Crime Safety; people going through yards Crime Stolen items/ missing from front yard, displays, decors Crime Stolen property (anything outside is stolen) Crime - break and enter - thefts Petty crime Crime - break ins (we were personally broken into a few days ago) Petty crime (break ins, carjacking, etc.) - More youth support, culturally relevant Crime - break ins, lack of Police presence programming, social supports needs to kids don’t turn to crime. Crime - break ins, property damage, theft Petty crime (car theft) Crime - vehicle was recently broken into on my driveway - talked to my neighbours. Petty crime- spray painting - got broken into once It has happened to most of my neighbours that’s not ok Petty Crimes Crime, break-ins, drugs, etc. Petty theft - vehicles being rifled through Crimes and safety (Thieves, drugs, kids on streets at night, poverty) Petty theft (people going through my car if it is open) Drug activity Petty theft and vandalism Drug houses Vandalism Drug houses - we have a crystal meth house across the alley Vandalism Drug houses (Rentals) Vandalism Drug use/abuse Vandalism from the kids at Arcola school Drugs Vandalism/mischief - particularly graffiti and fires in alleys Drugs and crime Vandalism/theft Drugs/mental health Vandalism/theft Theft Car crimes - stolen, vandalize, broken into Theft (opening cars, breaking into backyards, garages, sheds) 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 22
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Theft, mainly bikes People cutting through yards / theft Theft, vandalism Property/vehicle crime at night Close proximity to higher crime rate areas Rising break ins, garage/yard thefts Thefts late at night (vehicles and property) Vehicles break-ins Increase crime, break & enter, thefts Graffiti (particularly gang graffiti) Less needles on ground Drunk people making noise early and late everyday Less safe toward Victoria Ave especially at night Fires in bins in alleys Lowering crime - often many thefts, break ins aren't even reported anymore Bad people (tenants)! Not the safest neighbourhood Keeping crime down Nuisance thefts - going through vehicles Lack of Police protection in some instances Nuisance vandalism - spray paint, knocked over/riffled through garbage and recycling Community policing; more resources are going to females and visible minorities Often damages and break ins into vehicles Was broken into Parking, Traffic & Bylaw Enforcement Issues 68 Animals running loose Garbage bins not being pulled inside Animals running loose Garbage in back alleys - people have a lot and it gets strewn all over; yards have a lot Littering of weeds Neglect of properties/yards (rentals?) Garbage in back lanes Push for more automobile demands/parking Junk, old furniture left in back alleys Parking Keeping back alleys clean Parking Lack of garbage bins/pick up times Parking Speeding car races at night; loud & dangerous Increased traffic causing noise/ pollution and idling Speeding drivers on residential streets Maintenance of traditional homes Speeding loud cars on College Ave & litter from the high school students (at lunch) Dog owners not clean up after pets Speeding traffic (cars) Parking Speeding traffic on Broadway/Douglas Ave Parking and road clean up Large volumes of traffic Parking on 14th Ave (hospital staff & large work trailers) The speed of traffic on Dixon Parking on streets (understandable) The street light system (better illumination needed) Bottlenecked traffic 330pm - 5pm Broadway & Park St Too few street lights create safety concerns Cars driving much too fast on Broadway Ave Too heavy traffic! Excessive speed on through streets How the traffic is on 14th Ave. Traffic People don’t slow down - use it as a racetrack Traffic People parking in handi-cap parking spots Traffic from 7-11 store People/kids driving too fast Traffic noise and high volume of cars using College Ave as a 'shortcut' from East End Some back alleys are grim and folks are parking on lawns traffic/road; snow removal Some residents not adhering to smoke fires (bylaws) Furniture in the back alley by the apartments Coyotes Garbage - some neighbours have no clue when garbage day is and never put out Noise from the people drag racing/stunting down Broadway and on the ben around their bins, it piles up Winnipeg St Garbage all over the alleys - I have phones numerous times but the rentals just No Parking of vehicle on the street lots of times - with apartments next door continue to throw garbage on the ground noise Garbage around convenient stores Getting residents to follow by-laws; many non-caring renters. 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 23
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 No bus route that’s not on a major road People not retracting their bins (garbage) Too many massage parlors on Victoria Ave Improve visual appeal and pride in the neighbourhood (i.e. Unkempt yards and Too many transient people homes); flower beds for the community Neighbourhood traffic is too fast and Arcola gets congested Properties not well maintaining or in disrepair Vehicles speeding down 14th Ave No ONE puts bins away in alleys! Obstacle course central Sometimes noisy (College Ave - isn't a BIG deal) People toss garbage anywhere People going through garbage bins looking for bottles Slippery paths right now People going through our bins Lack of Amenities 14 Lack of greeneries Grocery stores aren’t very close Lack of walking trails Amenities moving out of the area to suburbs. lacking in a variety of activities Not enough family activities No dog parks Not enough Senior-friendly outside space No grocery store within walking distance Activities for ALL ages The play structures are too small for the number of children in this area Warm bus stations lack of Upgrade and increase of play structures for heavily populated area School Poverty, Social Issues and Costs of Living 13 Poverty Taxes are high for the size of homes/lots Poverty Taxes getting too high Poverty Trend to higher property taxes Poverty Health issues of Senior people Poverty Inequity across the neighbourhood - North - South Social Isolation Some transient drug uses Taxes Environmental Issues 9 Climate change Minimizing green space which includes individual yards Climate change Spring and Fall clean up Climate change Having residents understand the importance of being environmentally friendly in Compost, lack there of relation to their homes and garden/yards! Too much smoke/air pollution Teach new residents’ rules like recycle and what goes in garbage 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 24
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021 Neighbourhood Plan & Other Misc. Issues 25 An implementation of a non-bureaucratic fashion for a neighbourhood plan Lack of investors, community resources and beauty (why not becoming the most Being heard about the need for a proper neighbourhood plan colourful vibrant area in Regina? Or its pioneer? Street arts? City of Regina doesn’t listen to community Looking after the garden in the summer Constantly being overlooked by the City of Regina and public perception as a 'poor' Peoples 'perception' of area neighbourhood that doesn’t matter. Public perception No newsletter to keep up updated on activities & what's happening & availability in Removing the 'low income' - 'the hood' type reputation our community Seen as 'transitional' to many Small & limited community association Teach people they don’t own the sidewalk and street - anyone can park Cornwall Alternative school brings bad kids to neighbourhood The smell of the pot coming from neighbors’ garage; With so many kids in the area, Too many cowards with attitudes; being 'ratted out' this is not safe or appropriate in residential area. Training for offenders White males over 25 are not getting their share of resource Lockdowns Upgrading Not entirely sure as I haven't lived in area to long Use of large oxygen tanks - no signage for safety Not participating/engaging/mingling Was quieter until they moved in a new 7/11 21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 25
Al Ritchie Community Association – What Matters to You in Your Community Survey – February 2021
What are the three most important CHANGES you believe need to be made within the next 3 years?
Transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources
Social Programming & Green Spaces & Other 34 Unsure
A library drop-off box outside
A sense of community and safety Infrastructure and Municipal Services 31
A stronger identity - neighbourhood feels cliché Better roads
Add compost bins Better snow removal
Affordable University training, online education Better snow removal
After school programs to keep Youth busy Better tree trimming by City for their trees
Area leadership Better winter roads and sidewalk maintenance
Begin planting trees to replace large old trees that are dying off City could fix streets
Better grass and shade trees in Crescent Park City sewer lines (Took a company 5 hours to chew through the roots on City side at
Build up green spaces our house)
Businesses should not build in Wascana Park Continue to upgrade infrastructure
Classes for new immigrants to learn how to handle our clay soil to grow something Fix streets and sidewalks
other than weeds. I believe many of them just don’t know Fixing some of the really bad streets
Depending on the end of Pandemic -social groups Improve road surface conditions and side walks
Don’t know about 'most important' but would like more Senior programs i.e.: exercise Improve roads
classes, knit & chat classes, cards & board game drop ins Infrastructure plan / annual work
Emphasis of walking/cycling OVER TRAFFIC Infrastructure repair
I would like to have a green refuse container Infrastructure repairs
Implement community clean up days with bins Infrastructure spending - roads, sidewalks, water, sewer
Increase access/capacity for community gardens Keep on top of roads and repair - still a spot in asphalt at Park & Arcola lights that
Increased community activities i.e.: like Cathedral catches your tire, quite large
Look after the big trees New sidewalks
More adult classes after 5pm Paved alleys
More community-based services like farmers market Repair streets - future sinkholes
More composting Repairing of infrastructure
Permit parking during City events (Mosaic & Farmers Market) Repairing of old infrastructure
Programming for post pandemic families Repave my street, pave my gravel back alley; less street parked traffic
Programs for single parents Road improvement
Reconciliation between non - white people & park authorities Road repairs
Remove government at all levels Roads to be fixed
Resources for Poverty- drugs - kids & teenagers - parents; A place for kids & teens to Snow clearing on side streets
belong. Be and belong Street maintenance to fix holes, lumps, water drainage issues
Revamp of Victoria Ave introducing new businesses (between McDonald & Winnipeg The horrible sewer smell to go away
St) like a Dollar Store, Tim Hortons, London Drugs Upgrade infrastructure
Same as #3 (parks upgraded) Upgrading of infrastructure
Strengthen Al Ritchie community center / services
21-ARCA What Matters to You - 17 Feb 2021-V1.2-DGMercer DGMercer – Jen Moffat Associates Page 26You can also read
