May 15, 2026 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
October 25, 2024 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
I want to update you on an important issue affecting our community's transportation future. I have joined several of my Council colleagues in signing a letter opposing new provincial legislation that would severely restrict Ottawa's ability to build and maintain vital cycling infrastructure.The proposed legislation would require municipalities to seek provincial approval before implementing any new bike lanes that affect vehicle traffic lanes. This overreach by the provincial government puts nearly all projects in Ottawa's Active Transportation Master Plan at risk, including potentially removing existing infrastructure like the successful O'Connor Street protected bike lanes – which see over 150,000 uses annually.
This legislation fundamentally undermines our City's ability to make informed, local decisions about transportation safety and climate action. Many of our cycling infrastructure projects were implemented in direct response to tragic accidents and deaths on our roads. These aren't just statistics – they represent our family members, friends, and neighbors whose lives have been forever changed by road accidents.
The evidence supporting bike lanes is clear: they reduce congestion by providing safe alternative transportation options while making our streets safer for everyone. This provincial intervention would add unnecessary bureaucracy to local decision-making and potentially waste taxpayer dollars by removing recently installed, well-used infrastructure.
I believe our community deserves better. Residents should have the right to travel safely whether they choose to walk, cycle, take transit, or drive. As your City Councillor, I will continue to advocate for maintaining local control over our transportation planning and ensuring our streets remain safe and accessible for all users.
My colleagues and I urge the provincial government to withdraw this misguided legislation and respect municipalities' ability to meet their communities' transportation needs.
The following City Councillors have joined me in signing this letter:
- Councillor Ariel Troster - Ward 14 (Somerset)
- Councillor Glen Gower - Ward 6 (Stittsville)
- Councillor Theresa Kavanagh - Ward 7 (Bay)
- Councillor Laine Johnson - Ward 8 (College)
- Councillor Sean Devine - Ward 9 (Knoxdale Merivale)
- Councillor Jessica Bradley - Ward 10 (Gloucester-Southgate)
- Councillor Stéphanie Plante - Ward 12 (Rideau-Vanier)
- Councillor Jeff Leiper - Ward 15 (Kitchissippi)
- Councillor Riley Brockington - Ward 16 (River)
- Councillor Shawn Menard - Ward 17 (Capital)
- Councillor Marty Carr - Ward 18 (Alta Vista)
For more information or to share your thoughts on this issue, please contact our office.
Your Councillor in the Community
Happy to help open the Book Fair at Rockcliffe Park Public School this morning and welcome hundreds of book enthusiasts. The book fair supports literacy initiatives benefiting students across Ottawa. The Rockcliffe Park Public School Book Fair runs all weekend! Shop and enjoy!
Attended the opening of an Ottawa Art Gallery exhibition this week that explores the critical, creative practices of Jeff Thomas, an indomitable Ottawa-based urban Iroquois photographer, curator, activist, and cultural theorist. The exhibit runs to next year. Admission is always free.
My sincere thanks to Rideau-Rockcliffe residents and community leaders for joining me for my Ward 13 Budget Consultation held virtually on Oct. 24. I appreciated the engaging questions and the opportunity to connect about budget priorities for Ward 13 residents. My thanks to Cyril Rogers, the City's Chief Financial Officer, and his team for joining us for the budget presentation and to answer questions. The recording from this consultation session will be posted to my Youtube channel.
I appreciated the opportunity to speak with New Edinburgh residents during the New Edinburgh Community Alliance's Annual General Meeting on Oct. 22.
Thank you to everyone who joined me for my hybrid citywide Equity Budget Consultation for Black, Indigenous and racialized communities on Oct. 21. I appreciated hearing from residents and organizations from across Ottawa. Thank you to my guests for presenting: Joseph Muhuni, Deputy City Treasurer of Revenue Services, Shanna Culhane, the City's Director of Gender, Race Equity, Inclusion, Indigenous Relations and Social Development, and Bo Turpin, from the newly founded Ottawa Black Coalition. A recording of the budget consultation session has been posted to my Youtube channel.
Honoured as Deputy Mayor to make remarks and raise the Hungarian flag this week with Her Excellency Ambassador Maria Vass-Salazar at Ottawa City Hall with MPs Don Davies and Michael Kram on the occasion of Hungary’s National Day.
Kris & Manju Singhal’s incredible demonstration of generosity culminated in an incredible moment of pride when the new name of the Hôpital Montfort emergency department was unveiled this week! It’s the first in the province to have a special zone to assist mental health patients.
It was amazing to attend the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Health Democracy Forum in Toronto last weekend with Senator Clement and speak about the need for more civility, equity and resident participation in local government and municipal elections.
I attended an amazing tenant event celebrating the completion of 271 new affordable housing units at the Ottawa Community Housing Mikinak community in Wateridge Village last week with Ottawa Community Housing Chair Theresa Kavanagh and OCH staff. Welcome home!
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Parking restrictions - Provender Avenue - Oct. 21 to Nov. 22
Starting the week of October 21, 2024, Hydro Ottawa is conducting maintenance hole upgrades on Provender Avenue. This project has an estimated completion date of November 22, 2024. Overall, this work will include:
- electrical infrastructure upgrades;
- lane reductions; and
- sidewalk closures at site.
There are no scheduled power outages associated with this work at this time. Residents may notice increased construction presence throughout the project, including construction vehicles.
Impacted street: Provender Avenue
Community Coffee Days are back - Oct. 25 and Nov. 29
The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre and Incubator 13 have restarted Community Coffee Days. Upcoming dates are Oct. 25 and Nov. 29. Drop by The Rideau Community Hub at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard from 2 to 3 pm in Room 124.
Rockcliffe Park Public School Book Fair - Oct. 25, 26 and 27
Come browse an enormous selection of adult and children’s books from trending titles to forgotten gems, DVDs, CDs and vinyl. We’ve even got puzzles and games. There’s something for everyone! Make time to stop by the Book Fair Café on your way out. You’ll also find a bake sale featuring classic favorites and international delicacies. Visit once or visit often – shelves will be restocked daily while supplies last. The Book Fair takes place Oct. 25 from 10 am to 9 pm, Oct. 26 from 10 am to 6 pm and Oct. 27 from 10 am to 4 pm at Rockcliffe Park Public School in the Queen Juliana Hall, 360 Springfield Road. For more information, please visit rockcliffeparkbookfair.com.
Market in New Edinburgh Park - Oct. 26
It is the Beechwood Market's turn to wrap things up for the season. This Saturday, October 26 will be your final chance to chat with vendors, listen to Leo on the gueeetar and thank manager Tabatha for doing such a spectacular job this season. Join us from 9 am to 1 pm in New Edinburgh Park, 203 Stanley Ave. Fret not, as Your Farm Store is open all year round at 1805 Gaspe. Think of the Store as a mini version of all the outdoor Ottawa Street Markets combined. You'll never have to miss your favourite Market products. For a full list of Farm Store items, visit www.ottstreetmarkets.ca
Halloween at the Hub - Oct. 26
Join the Vanier BIA for their free family Halloween event featuring pumpkin carving, music, candy and games at the Vanier Hub, 271 Marier Avenue, on October 26 from 4 to 6 pm.
Halloween Howl in New Edinburgh - Oct. 26
Saturday, October 26
2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Howl is New Edinburgh's annual Halloween party at the Fieldhouse! This longstanding tradition is an opportunity for our littlest neighbours to dress up and participate in Halloween themed activities, crafts and games inside the Fieldhouse. Roxie Clark has once again organized the Halloween Howl. She needs the help of teens and adults from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday evening (October 25th) to decorate, then from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday afternoon (October 26th) to give the neighbourhood kids a spooky fun time and to clean up. Please contact Roxie at [email protected] if you or your teens can help. Details: www.newedinburgh.ca/event/halloween-howl-ccc-2
Films at the Fieldhouse - Oct. 26
Saturday, October 26
6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
A double dose of director Tim Burton's stop-motion macabre inside the Fieldhouse. Admission and popcorn are free. The kitchen bar will be selling a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. For details: www.newedinburgh.ca/event/films-at-the-fieldhouse-halloween-ccc
- Frankenweenie 6:00 p.m. (or shortly after)
- Corpse Bride 7:30 p.m. (or shortly after)
Halloween in the Forest - Oct. 27
The Vanier Museopark, in collaboration with the Vanier Optimist Club, invites kids and grown-ups to take a stroll in the Richelieu Park forest to celebrate Halloween. Little monsters can take part in several activities and collect treats along the way. A volunteer from the Lire et faire lire program will also read stories around the campfire!
- When: Sunday, October 27, from 11 am to 1 pm (or until we run out of stock)
- Where: Richelieu Park forest (300 des Pères-Blancs Ave.)*
- Cost: Free activity, no registration needed
Don’t forget to wear a costume for the occasion! For more information, please visit museoparc.ca.
Road Closure - Mutual Street - Oct. 28 to Nov. 3
The City has received a request for the closure of Mutual Street, between May Street and Église Street, Oct. 28 to Nov. 3 to accommodate excavation, backfilling and service installation at 470 Mutual. The work will include cutting, removal and instatement of asphalt at 470 Mutual. A signed detour will be in effect. Please watch for traffic-related signs. Access to adjacent dwellings and businesses will be maintained at all times. Impacted residents will receive advance notification.
Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition Career Fair - Oct. 28
The Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition Career Fair takes place Oct. 28 from 11 am to 5 pm at the Ottawa Convention and Events Centre at 200 Coventry Road. Indigenous and non-Indigenous job seekers are welcome. For details, please visit ottawaaboriginalcoalition.ca/career-fair-2024.
St. Laurent Library Branch programming in October
- English Book Club: Oct. 31 from 10 to 12 pm. Featuring A Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel
- English conversation group: Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 pm
- Groupe de conversation en français: les mardis 18h30 - 20h
- Knitting and Crochet Club: Tuesdays from 1 to 3 pm
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Free Movie Nights
- Oct. 30 at 6:30 pm featuring The Wedding Planner
- Le 26 octobre à 14h La cage dorée
- Let's Talk Tech. Need help with technology? A team member will help answer your questions. Drop in Wednesdays until Dec. 18 between 2:30 and 3:30 pm
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Children's Programs - Drop ins
- Family Storytime in English: Monday, Oct. 28 at 10:30 am
- Homework Club: Wednesdays at 5 pm for 6-12 year olds
For more program information, please visit biblioottawalibrary.ca/en.
Overbrook Haunted House - Oct. 31
The Overbrook Community Centre presents an Overbrook Haunted House Halloween Safe Zone. Adults and teens can explore a creepy dollhouse haunted house. Ottawa Community Housing presents a preschool zone featuring a candy maze, face-painting, crafts, piñata, a movie and popcorn. The Halloween fun takes place Halloween night, Oct. 31 from 5 to 9 am at the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street. Admission is free!
Oakhill, Corona and Carsdale Integrated Renewal Update - Road closures extended until the end of October
Project update: All construction work will be completed by the end of October including landscaping and asphalt paving. The roads will reopen before the end of this month.
Development Application - 304-308 Donald Street - Comments due by Nov. 1
The City of Ottawa has received Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Control applications for 304-308 Donald Street in the Overbrook community. The site is located on the southeast corner of the Donald Street and Edith Avenue intersection. The applicant is proposing to develop a three-storey, 31-unit low-rise apartment. Ten vehicular parking spaces, including eight spaces for residents and two visitor parking spaces, and 31 bicycle parking spaces are proposed. A Minor Zoning By-Law Amendment Application is required in order for this project to proceed. Site-specific exceptions to the R4UC Zone of the Subject Site are necessary to provide relief from zoning provisions to; reduce the required number of parking spaces for residents, increase the maximum allowed lot area, and reduce the minimum required corner side yard setback. A detailed Site Plan Control Application is required to facilitate the development on the Subject Site. The proposed development will require the demolition of the existing buildings, modifications to side grading, drainage and landscaping. To review the development applications, please visit the City's DevApps website:
Comments can be submitted by Nov. 1 to the City's file lead, Margot Linker, via the DevApps website at this link.
Comedy at the Fieldhouse - Nov. 2
Laughs will start about an hour after the doors open. Beer, hard seltzers, wine, non-alcoholic refreshments and snacks will be available. This event is recommended for ages 16 and up. Tickets are $20. This show will sell out in advance. Buy your tickets from Eventbrite: NewEdinburghFieldhouse.eventbrite.com
Christmas Bazaar & Chili Lunch - Nov. 2
St. Bart's Bazaar - Nov 2
Please mark your calendars! The St, Bart's Bazaar is coming up on Saturday, November 2, from 12 - 4 pm at 125 MacKay Street. This year we have our usual variety of great items- antiques, gifts, jewelry, books, preserves, baking, attic treasures, toys & games, crafts & knitting, Christmas decorations, works of art and our famous Tea Room with home made sandwiches! Please join us at this well-loved event and find gifts for all the family and yourself as well! Questions? Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have things to donate: Linda Assad Butcher at (613) 298-9980 and Liz Heatherington at (613) 745-4677. Your bazaar supports the parish and its outreach initiatives. Last year we supported Belong Ottawa (Centre 454, The Well/La Source), Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund, the Rideau Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre and St. Margaret’s Church in Vanier. For more information, please visit saintbartholomew.ca.
Christmas Bazaar & Chili Lunch - Nov. 2
Free native seed giveaway - Nov. 2
Join the Ottawa Wildflower Seed Library to learn about native plant gardening and receive free native seeds for winter sowing. No gardening experience required! The seeds they provide are all native to Ottawa, locally-sourced and support the progressive City ROW and Rain Ready initiatives. Visit the Ottawa Wildflower Seed Library at wildflowerseedlibrary.ca for more information about events and to shop for garden signs and magnets – their sole source of funding to help them run their year-long events as they are an entirely volunteer-run organization.
- November 2 from 1 to 3 pm at Saint Columba Anglican Church, 24 Sandridge Rd., Manor Park (Facebook event). Hosted by the Manor Park Community Association Environmental Sustainability Committee and Saint Columba Anglican Church.
Prince Albert Street road closure - Nov. 4 to 15
My office has been advised that Kane Construction Group has been contracted to install new site services, including water, sanitary and storm, to 140 Prince Albert Street. This work will involve a standard road cut, requiring the closure of Prince Albert Street between Quill Street and Vera Street. The road will be closed the morning of Nov. 4 through to Nov. 15. Local residents will have access by entering Quill or Vera, though there will be a hard road closure in front of 140 Prince Albert. All disrupted roads will be temporarily reinstated before the weekend begins. Notifications have been sent to nearby residents.
Opportunity Career Expo - Nov. 5
The Social Planning Council of Ottawa, in partnership with Burundi We Want, are hosting an Opportunity Career Expo at the Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, on Nov. 5, from 2 to 6 pm. This event will connect job seekers with employers across various sectors, including retail, healthcare, finance, and more. For more information or questions, contact [email protected]. Don’t miss this chance to explore exciting career opportunities!
Road Closure - Rideau Gate - Nov. 6
Old Railway Rideau River Pedestrian Bridge Environmental Assessment Study - virtual consultation session - Nov. 6
The City of Ottawa is undertaking an Environmental Assessment (EA) study for the renewal of Old Railway Rideau River Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge carried a single railway track on the former CP Rail Montreal & Ottawa Subdivision until its abandonment in 1966 and was re-purposed by 1972 to carry only pedestrian and cycling traffic. The bridge provides an important multi-use active transportation link between the National Capital Commission’s Rideau River Eastern Pathway and the City of Ottawa’s Rideau River Western Pathway / Rideau River Nature Trail. In 2018, a detailed condition assessment was completed and concluded that the structure was in overall poor condition, with several components showing significant signs of deterioration. The purpose of the EA will be to identify and evaluate options for bridge renewal or replacement considering different alignment possibilities in accordance with the EA planning process.
UPDATE: A virtual public consultation session is planned for Nov. 6 from 6 to 8 pm. Zoom registration details are now available on the City's project website at ottawa.ca/rideauriverbridge. Please register to receive the virtual meeting link if you wish to participate. Presnetation material will be posted on the City's website one day before the meeting. Please provide your comments to the City's project manager, Kosta Karadakis, by emailing [email protected] before November 20, 2024.
47 Beechwood Community Consultation - Nov. 12
Residents, business owners and community stakeholders are invited to join me, Councillor Rawlson King, for a community consultation regarding the proposed development for 47 Beechwood Avenue on Nov. 12 at 6:30 pm on Zoom. To register for the meeting link, please click here.
The City has received a zoning amendment application and a site plan control application for 47 Beechwood Avenue (including 12 Douglas Avenue and 5 Springfield Road) located on the north side of Beechwood between Douglas Avenue and Springfield Road in the Lindenlea community. The applicant is proposing to develop an eight-storey, mixed-use building with four commercial at-grade units, 123 residential units, 48 underground parking spaces, 128 bicycle parking spaces and 880 square metres of amenity space (which refers to community rooms, dog wash rooms, a communal terrace and private balconies at the property). The two applications have been posted to the City’s development applications website. The document links are below:
- Site plan control application: devapps.ottawa.ca/en/applications/D07-12-23-0084/details
- Minor zoning bylaw amendment application: devapps.ottawa.ca/en/applications/D02-02-23-0052/details
Information Fair for New Canadians - Nov. 13
DATE: Wednesday, November 13
TIME: 3pm – 5pm
PLACE: Centre Pauline Charron, 164 Jeanne Mance St.
Coffee, tea and snacks will be served.
Open Mic Night - Nov. 16
7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Bring your senses to be entertained or your talent to share at New Edinburgh's open mic at the Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Ave. Admission is free, but donations (to help pay for their new PA system) are appreciated. The kitchen bar will be open offering a variety of refreshments including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Performers have two songs or about 8-10 minutes at the mic. Two microphones, a mixer and speakers are available. Performers can register at the door at 6:00 pm. First come, first to fill the bill. Details: www.newedinburgh.ca/event/open-mic-at-the-fieldhouse
Lending Hand Holiday Exchange Program for Rideau-Rockcliffe residents - Apply before Nov. 21
Live in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward and need extra support during the upcoming holidays period? Online registration for the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre's annual Lending Hand Holiday Exchange program (for those with K1K, K1M and some K1G postal codes) is open until Nov. 21. Registration is limited. Early registration is encouraged. For information and to apply, please visit the resource centre's website or scan the QR code in the poster or call 613-745-0073, ext. 208.
Wateridge Village Community Association seeks a treasurer
The Wateridge Village Community Association is seeking to fill the board position of Treasurer. If you would like more information or are interested in volunteering with your community association, please contact [email protected]. They are 100 per cent powered by volunteers!
Become a Wateridge Village Community Association member!
Join the Wateridge Village Community Association. Become a member - for free - to receive the most up to date information about your community! It's easy, just click the link: www.wateridgeassociation.ca/join
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Trick or Treat with the Mayor - Oct. 26
Come Trick of Treat with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and your favourite costumed characters in the "Weird and Wonderful" Heritage Building where you will be welcomed by the Enchanted Witches and Goblins of Elgin Street. Collect special treats as you venture into the Ghost Chamber and down the Hall of Villains for more goodies and fun. See what's brewing inside City Hall where you can meet your favourite, fun costumed characters in Jean Pigott Place and meet the Tooth Fairy. The event takes place Oct. 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West in the Heritage Building and Jean Pigott Place. The queue to entre will be along Lisgar Street. Admission is by a non-perishable donation to the Ottawa Food Bank's Baby Basics Program. For more details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Yard Waste Pickup
Yard waste pickup is now extended until 8 pm. If you aren’t keeping your leaves, place them out at the curb in paper leaf and yard waste bags to ensure they get sorted to the right place. Learn more at ottawa.ca.
Ottawa Public Health recommends that high-risk residents protect themselves against RSV
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is recommending that eligible residents at higher risk of severe illness protect themselves against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) this respiratory illness season. RSV is a respiratory virus that can be particularly severe in infants and older adults. Immunization against RSV can help prevent serious health outcomes, including hospitalization. Publicly funded immunization is available for infants, high-risk children, pregnant individuals, and eligible older adults. For more information, please visit ottawa.ca.
Protect yourself: Get your flu vaccine
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is recommending that residents aged 6 months and older get their annual flu vaccine as soon as possible this flu season. OPH is anticipating an active respiratory illness season with influenza (flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) circulating in the community at the same time. The flu can cause serious illness and can result in complications and hospitalizations, especially for older adults and young children. Getting an annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the flu.
- Starting October 15, 2024: Participating local pharmacies will begin to offer flu vaccines to individuals at high risk of flu-related complications.
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Starting October 21, 2024: OPH Community Clinics and Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs will offer the flu vaccine for eligible high risk and priority populations who face barriers to access, including:
- Children aged 6 months to under 2 years and their household members (note: children 2 and older are directed to pharmacies for their annual flu vaccine).
- High-risk individuals facing significant barriers to access, such as newcomers without OHIP and children 2 to 5 years of age who have tried to access the vaccine through another provider.
- Starting October 28, 2024: all individuals 6 months of age and older who live, work, or go to school in Ontario are eligible for the flu vaccine through local pharmacies and healthcare providers. Updated COVID-19 vaccines will also be available for everyone.
For more information, please visit ottawa.ca or OttawaPublicHealth/flu.
Ottawa Public Health recommends updated COVID-19 vaccine this fall
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is recommending that individuals receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine this fall to protect themselves against current variants. The updated KP.2 COVID-19 mRNA vaccine is expected to enhance protection against infection and severe outcomes from COVID-19. Individuals 6 months and older should get the updated COVID-19 vaccine if it has been 6 months since their last dose or confirmed COVID-19 infection. Those who haven’t been vaccinated before can also receive the updated vaccine, which is especially important for those at higher risk of severe illness. Initial doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccine are available for eligible individuals at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection or severe illness due to COVID-19, including:
- Adults 65 years of age or older
- Residents of long-term care homes and other congregate living settings (e.g., chronic care facilities, retirement homes)
- Individuals who have underlying medical conditions that place them at higher risk of severe COVID-19, including children with complex health needs
- Pregnant individuals
- Individuals from First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities
- Members of racialized and other equity-deserving communities
Effective October 28, 2024, the updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available for all residents aged 6 months and older. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Be in the know about contracted snow removal
How are you clearing the snow from your driveway this winter? If you are hiring a snow plow contractor, check out the updated Licensing By-law regulations and know how to avoid a scam: ottawa.ca
Name the Plow campaign
The names for the Name the Plow campaign were officially announced at yesterday's Transportation Committee. To see the full list of names head to engage.ottawa.ca/name-the-plow
Planned O-Train Line 1 maintenance - until Nov. 3
On specific days between Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, November 3, O-Train Line 1 service will be impacted by planned maintenance. R1 Replacement bus service will run during impacts.
- October 29, and 30: From 11 pm, Line 1 closed between Blair and uOttawa stations.
- October 26 and 27 and November 1 and 2: Full O-Train Line 1 closed all day.
For more details, please visit octranspo.com.
OC Transpo - New Ways to Bus
Trial Running Starting for O-Train Lines 2 and 4 - Daily Reports now available
The first phase of O-Train Lines 2 and 4 trial running began October 7. Trial running will evaluate the safety and reliability of the system for public use. For daily reports, please visit: octranspo.com/en/trial-running
Winter registration dates
Winter registration is coming up fast! Mark your calendars with these important registration dates for next season:
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Tuesday, October 29: Browse fall activities online.
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Tuesday, November 12 at 9 pm: Register for aquatics programs.
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Thursday, November 14 at 9 pm: Register for recreation, arts, culture and virtual activities.
Virtual activities for older adults
Are you 50+? If so, you’re in luck! Join the City for a variety of free virtual programs to help you stay active, develop new skills and form lasting friendships—all from the comfort of your home! Fees will be waived at the time of registration.
Ottawa Heritage Funding Program - Application deadline is Oct. 30
The City of Ottawa's Heritage Funding Program supports projects undertaken by individuals or organizations that promote or support:
- local heritage through education, awareness and appreciation
- research or documentation of local history
- preservation of local heritage assets
- the reclamation, retention, transmittal, development and revitalization of Anishinabe Algonquin Nation, First Nations, Inuit and Métis heritage and culture
The City of Ottawa is accepting applications for the 2025 Heritage Funding Program. This funding is a great opportunity for Heritage Professionals both Emerging and Experienced to pursue their passion projects! This program offers support for projects that, Promote or support local heritage through education, preserve local heritage assets, Reclaim, retain, transmit, develop and revitalize Anishinabe Algonquin Nation, First Nations, Inuit and Métis heritage and culture. The Cultural Funding Support Unit also offers bilingual virtual drop-in sessions via Microsoft Teams every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm to answer questions and provide guidance. For details and to apply before the Oct. 30 deadline, please visit ottawa.ca.
City of Ottawa Community Project Funding - Applications due by Oct. 31
The City's Community Safety and Well-Being team and the Community Development and Funding team have combined resources to offer a $1.4-million Project Funding stream. The Funding Priorities for 2024 are children and youth and priority neighbourhoods. All organizations who receive funding under this joint funding stream must offer programming that supports poverty reduction or social development. Deadline for application: Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 5 pm For more information and to apply, please visit ottawa.ca.
Nominations are open for the 2025 Ottawa Heritage Awards - Until Nov. 1
New Zoning Bylaw Workshop - Nov. 5
This fall, join City staff for a series of in-person workshops to discuss Ottawa’s New Zoning By-Law. These workshops are designed to engage the community, gather valuable feedback, and ensure that our new Zoning By-law reflects the Official Plan and the needs and aspirations of all residents. Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our city!
Final workshop. In-person starting at 6:30 pm
- November 5 – Confederation Education Centre, 1645 Woodroffe Avenue, Nepean
For more information, visit: engage.ottawa.ca/zoning
New Zoning Bylaw 3D interactive map
The City has created a 3D interactive map for residents to visualize the existing zoning and be able to compare in a real-world environment in relation to the New Zoning By-law 2008-250. The 3D map is fully immersive; you can visualize the new proposed zoning starting from a bird’s eye view, then you can pan, zoom, rotate, and tilt to visualize the zoning from a street perspective in your neighborhood surrounded by the built environment in 3D. To view the map, please visit ottawa.ca.
The Foundation for Black Canadians (FFBC) has launched a call for proposals under the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund (BPEF). The federal government budget 2021 committed to establishing BPEF, which is dedicated to supporting Black-led, Black-focused and Black-serving non-profit organizations and registered charities. FFBC has launched the Black Ideas Grant. Eligible organizations will receive funding for projects that support the fight against anti-Black racism or that work toward improving social and economic outcomes for Black communities in Canada. Maximum funding per project is $200,000. The last date to apply is November 8, 2024. Full details and to apply please click: Black Ideas Grants
Climate Resiliency Strategy - Survey open until Nov. 8
This summer was the hottest on record globally, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service. Recent weeks have seen severe flooding across Europe and Asia and major hurricanes in the United States.
The City has many programs and policies to prepare for climate change. But with the anticipated more frequent extreme heat events, heavier rainfall and increasingly unpredictable weather, it’s important that we all take action to prepare.
Building on both the Climate Projections and Climate Change Vulnerability and Risk Assessment, the Climate Ready Ottawa draft strategy outlines long-term goals and actions to address the city’s most pressing climate hazards. The draft strategy expands on existing programs while identifying additional initiatives to strengthen Ottawa’s resilience. Developed in collaboration with many City departments, the draft strategy incorporates community input gathered during 2023. We are now finalizing the strategy and developing a short-term implementation plan. There is still time to share your thoughts on resiliency by completing the Climate Ready Ottawa survey - please fill out the survey by Friday, November 8, 2024.
Commemorative naming program - Submissions due by Nov. 12
Are you, your organization or group looking to commemorate the legacy of a person who contributed or made an impact to our community? The City has launched its revamped Commemorative Naming Program with the start of its first nomination period, which is open now. The online submission form is now available at ottawa.ca/namingottawa. The deadline is Tuesday, November 12. For more information, please visit ottawa.ca.
Funding available - Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund - Deadline to apply is Nov. 15
Black communities in Canada continue to face significant barriers to accessing mental health services and supports. The federal government is accepting proposals to allocate $1 million under the Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund. Community-based organizations can apply for up to $100,000 to support projects that seek to build organizations’ capacity to develop and deliver programs that promote the mental health of Black people in Canada. For full details and to apply please visit www.canada.ca. The deadline to submit a proposal is Nov. 15.
E-scooters End of Season Survey - Until Nov. 30
The City of Ottawa is seeking public feedback on the Shared Electric Kick Scooter Pilot, following its fifth season. The data collected will be valuable for comparing with previous seasons and will be used to help make recommendations for any potential future season. We invite you to fill out this survey about your experiences with e-scooters, including but not limited to, mis-parking, riding on sidewalks, and sound emission. There is also an opportunity at the end of the survey to provide more general feedback and your personal experience with e-scooters. This survey closes November 30, 2024 and is open to everyone, whether they have used the shared e-scooters or not. Please feel encouraged to share this information through your networks. Any other questions, comments and thoughts can be sent to [email protected].
Emergency Services News
Halloween Safety: Tips to Keep You and Your Family Safe
With Halloween just around the corner, the Ottawa Police Service wants to remind everyone to stay safe, whether you're trick-or-treating, driving, or celebrating. Here are some tips to ensure that this spooky holiday remains safe for all:
Trick-or-Treaters:
- Be Seen: Make sure kids are visible. Give them flashlights, glow sticks, or reflective tape.
- Use the Sidewalk: Always walk on sidewalks or paths. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, and don’t run between parked cars.
- Stay in Groups: Young children should always be with an adult. Older kids should consider going with friends. Make sure they have a charged phone and a plan in case they get separated.
- Never go inside a house to get treats.
- Always have your treats checked by an adult before eating them.
- Keep pets who may be easily spooked away from the door and trick-o-treaters
Drivers:
- Stay Alert: Be on the lookout for excited trick-or-treaters who may not be paying attention to traffic. Drive slowly, and be ready to stop.
- Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away and focus on the road. Distracted driving can turn a fun night into a dangerous or tragic night.
For more safety tips, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Scam Alert
The Ottawa Police Service is seeing an increase in scams involving taxi fares. People are being approached by a young person claiming they need taxifare. A taxi driver, or someone pretending to be a taxi driver, is typically parked nearby to make the story seem true. The young person. The young person makes claims about why their payment methods haven’t worked but will offer to reimburse the unsuspecting person with cash if they use their card to pay for the taxi. When the unsuspecting person pays, they do not realize that their card has not been returned to them or has been swapped with someone else’s. The scammers will then use the unsuspecting person’s card until it’s locked.
Purchase your tickets for the 13th Annual Ottawa Police Service Gala to be held Nov. 2
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is pleased to announce that tickets for the 13th Annual Gala are now available to purchase online. The event, set for Saturday, November 2 at the Shaw Centre, promises an unforgettable evening of dining, dancing, and community engagement. This year’s gala will benefit two important organizations that are making significant strides in our community: the Sexual Assault Support Center of Ottawa and the Multifaith Housing Initiative. The 2024 OPS Gala aims to raise essential funds to support these vital organizations. Tickets can be purchased online for $200 each, or $2,000 for a table that seats 10. You can purchase a corporate table for $2,000, where two seats will be donated to a uniformed OPS member.
Make the Right Call
www.ottawapolice.ca/en/who-we-are/contact-us.aspx
When to Call 911:
- For crimes in progress and life-threatening emergencies
- You witness a dangerous or impaired driver
- There is a vehicle collision with injuries
- Fire or medical emergency
When to call 613-236-1222. Please listen to the prompts.
- Residential or commercial break and enter
- Missing person
- Suspicious activity or vehicle (drug trafficking in progress)
- Stolen vehicle
- Assault where no medical attention is required
- Animal abuse
- Vehicle collision where no injuries are reported
When to call and make a report with the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit 613-236-1222, extension 7300. Open seven days a week between 10 am and 8:45 pm.
- Alcohol and drug use in public (for example, in city parks)
- Reporting to the police after the fact – an incident has occurred, but no one has remained on scene
- Disputes or harassment (for example, argument with neighbour, stalking, fear for non-immediate safety)
- Sexual assault reported, where there is no longer evidence
When the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit (PRU) is closed between the hours of 9 pm and 10 am, an automated attendant will provide you with options on how to redirect your call.
When to make a report using the Ottawa Police online system at ottawapolice.ca/onlinereporting:
- Theft (excluding theft of passports or other citizenship documents)
- Lost Property (with a visible serial number or distinct marking such as a custom engraving)
- This does not include: cellphones, credit and debit cards; please phone your banking institution or cellphone company
- Mischief/Damage to Property
- Theft from Vehicle
- Traffic Complaints
- Drug Complaints (drug trafficking information)
- Fraud Complaints
- Hate-Motivated Incidents
- Add information to an existing report
Crime Stoppers: If you have information about a crime but want to remain completely anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at crimestoppers.ca.
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