As a team of engineers and…

As a team of engineers and professionals specializing in pedestrian-level wind studies, we are writing to express our strong opposition to Bill 17, which proposes removing the requirement for wind, sun/shadow, urban design, and lighting studies from development applications.

While the goal of expediting housing and infrastructure delivery is acknowledged, prohibiting these site-specific environmental assessments - particularly wind studies - risks avoidable hazards and liability and reduces the livability of Ontario’s communities.

The Importance of Wind Studies
Large buildings, especially those lacking wind mitigating design features such as step-backs, podiums, or landscaping, can generate dangerous microclimatic conditions, like downwash, corner acceleration, and venturi effects. These can:
• Diminish the usability and enjoyment of outdoor spaces,
• Cause damage to vegetation and structures, particularly entryways and doors,
• Pose risks to pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users - especially seniors, children, and those using mobility aids,
• Discourage walkability and street-level commerce,
• Result in injuries from falls or flying debris, which may result in legal repercussions.

Wind studies identify these issues early, allowing for practical and cost-effective design modifications before construction. The required studies are conducted concurrently and, as such, have no significant impact on project scheduling, unless significant problems are identified.

The Role of Municipal Oversight
Wind impacts are highly localised, influenced by building massing, surrounding context, topography, and microclimate. While developers understandably may be motivated to maximize building height and floor area, municipalities are best positioned to assess these factors and ensure developments prioritize pedestrian safety and comfort. These studies are not unnecessary bureaucracy – they are vital planning tools – particularly in intensifying urban areas.

Our work helps ensure public spaces – such as parks, schools, sidewalks, trails, and privately owned public spaces – remain safe, functional, and suitable for everyday use.

A Balanced Approach
Rather than eliminating these requirements, I respectfully recommend the Province:
• Establish provincial guidelines outlining when wind studies are necessary,
• Promote early collaboration between developers and municipalities,
• Allow exemptions for low-rise developments or locations where studies are demonstrably unnecessary.

This approach supports Ontario’s development goals while still safeguarding public safety.

Conclusion
In the pursuit of faster development, we must not overlook everyday lived experience. Wind safety is fundamental to creating walkable, inclusive and resilient cities.

We urge you to oppose Bill 17, as written, and maintain pedestrian-level wind study requirements to ensure Ontario continues to grow responsibly. This would demonstrate a commitment not only to speed, but to quality and care in how we build.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We would be pleased to welcome you to our facility to discuss how our work contributes to safer, more livable communities.