The Official Plan, passed by current city council, allows two development options along our waterfront.

Option 1, above, allows buildings ranging from 6-10 storeys. Option 2, below, permits buildings ranging from 8-15 storeys, and would require removal of most, if not all, of the 11 heritage properties in the area. Many of those properties date back to the 1800s, and tell important parts of Burlington’s story as an early port city.

But even this is a best case scenario. Already, owners of several properties in the area have appealed the height and setback limits to the Ontario Municipal Board.

Now add these towers to the ones already built on the North side of Lakeshore Road, and the three towers ranging from 7-22 storeys on the South side of Lakeshore, just to the right of the 15-storey building above. The end result will be an ugly canyon of towers along Burlington’s waterfront, adding congestion and obstructing the lake.

Residents are saying loud and clear “we can do better.”

We have the power to change course, and come up with a more appropriate plan for this unique area of our waterfront.

We need to engage our whole city to create an inspired vision for Burlington ’s waterfront – a vision that will lead the way for other lakeside communities across Canada and beyond.

But time is of the essence. At any time, a developer could legally present an application to tear down the historic buildings and put up highrises.

You can help by adding your name to the Save Our Waterfront campaign. Only a huge movement from the community will create the momentum needed to persuade City Hall to take steps to protect this area, and seek meaningful, city-wide input on the most appropriate plan for our waterfront.

So add your name to our campaign – then spread the word to family, friends and neighbours – anyone who is passionate about our waterfront and making it an inviting, publicly accessible jewel on the lake.

Yours for community,

Marianne Meed Ward, Chair, Save Our Waterfront campaign