April 17, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
The City of Ottawa has recently unveiled its draft Transportation Master Plan (TMP) Update, which will shape how we move around our city for decades to come. Ottawa will gain approximately 400,000 new residents and 160,000 new jobs over the next two decades. With this growth, we need a transportation network that is flexible, dependable, safe, and efficient.
As your Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward, I'm pleased to share what this comprehensive plan means specifically for our community's future.
The TMP Update outlines two networks: the Needs-Based Transit Network (identifying all projects needed by 2046) and the Priority Transit Network (focusing on highest priority projects within budget constraints).
For Rideau-Rockcliffe residents, the Montreal Road corridor is a significant focus, with the plan recommending continuous bus lanes from St. Laurent Boulevard to Blair Road. This $90-million project is expected to improve transit travel times by up to 20 per cent and promote economic development along this vital corridor.
Additionally, the Blair Road corridor, forming our ward's eastern boundary, will see improvements with continuous bus lanes from Blair Station to the new Cumberland Transitway. This $53-million project ranked third among continuous bus lane initiatives in the city's evaluation and will provide faster, more reliable service connecting our community to downtown and Orleans.
I'm particularly excited about the first phase of the numerous pedestrian and cycling projects planned for our ward, which will make active transportation safer and more accessible for residents of all ages.
Pedestrian Projects
- Edith Avenue and Glynn Avenue Sidewalk:
New sidewalks connecting Queen Mary Street to Donald Street and Quill Street to VINCI School -
Gil-O-Julien Pathway:
New pathway from Gil-O-Julien Park to Grant Toole Way
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Hardy Avenue and Gardenvale Road Sidewalk:
New sidewalks from Bernard Street to Presland Park and from St. Laurent Boulevard to Cummings Avenue
- London Terrace and Mart Circle Sidewalk:
New connections between Alvin Heights Park, Alvin Road and St. Laurent Boulevard
- Manor Park School Sidewalks:
New sidewalks along Thornwood Road and Braemar Street
- Rideau Terrace Sidewalk:
New sidewalk connecting Lambton Avenue to Acacia Avenue
Cycling Projects
- Aviation Pathway Connections:
Improved community connections at Thibault Street and Gardenvale Road -
Beechwood Avenue:
Converting three segments to parking-protected cycling facilities
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Den Haag Drive and Bathgate Drive:
New bike lanes connecting Montreal Road to Ogilvie Road
- North River Road:
Bike lanes where feasible from Montreal Road to Donald Street
Additional pedestrian and cycling projects are identified for later phases, including sidewalks on Buena Vista Road, Clarke Avenue, Noranda Avenue, and Brant Street, plus cycling facilities on Lola Street and St. Laurent Boulevard.
On March 31, the City launched the consultation on the TMP Capital Infrastructure Plan, and your input is essential. City staff recently hosted a consultation session at the Overbrook Community Centre but there will be many other opportunities for public input.
Here's how you can participate:
- Complete the online surveys about recommended road and transit projects, prioritized active transportation projects, and other components of the plan.
- Register for one of the four online sessions, including one for Central Ottawa on May 1 at 6:30 pm on Zoom.
- Sign up for updates to stay informed on the TMP process.
Surveys will be open until May 12. To participate and learn more, visit the Transportation Master Plan project page on the City's Engage Ottawa website at engage.ottawa.ca/transportation-master-plan.
As your Councillor, I remain committed to advocating for transportation improvements that benefit our community. These investments will make transit and active transportation more accessible, efficient, and sustainable for all Rideau-Rockcliffe residents.
As always, I remain committed to ensuring that residents have maximal opportunity to comment on infrastructure projects in our Ward. Please reach out to my office if you have any questions or wish to discuss these plans further.
Rawlson King,
City Councillor
Your Councillor in the Community
Seeking Donations of Men's Suits & Sport Coats & Shirts & Ties
Ottawa Technical Secondary School is a local high school in Ward 13 that specializes in training students for a future in technology and the skilled trades. Many of our young men are looking to add a suit or sportcoat to their wardrobe so that they can dress appropriately for prom or for a job interview. For many students at OTSS, buying new dress clothes is not realistic, and even buying secondhand is a challenge. If you have a suit or sportcoat or some dress shirts and neckties that you are able to donate to OTSS, we would be happy to come and pick it up from your home. Please email [email protected] if you are able to help out. Alternatively, you can drop off items at OTSS at 485 Donald Street between 8:30 am and 3:30 pm any school day. Above is a picture of Matt Armstrong, Vice-Principal at OTSS, and 2024 OTSS grad Jayden Reid. Jayden's suit was purchased by OTSS staff so that he could dress up for his prom.
Ottawa River
Water levels and flows are fairly stable along the main stem of the Ottawa River. Levels and flows are expected to increase due to spring runoff from the central and northern parts of the basin. The snowpack melt in the northern part of the basin is expected to continue over the next few weeks.
The ORRPB continues to provide four-day forecasts which can be found at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.
Rideau River and small waterways
Water levels and flows across the three local conservation areas have decreased over the past week. While the risk of flooding is low, the Rideau River and small waterways will continue to respond quickly to significant precipitation events. Residents are encouraged to follow their local conservation authority and to remain aware of significant rain events which may result in localized flooding in low-lying areas and pooling in streets and on properties. Check the Basement and Overland Flooding page for safety and prevention measures.
Please continue to keep children and pets away from creeks and waterways
As a reminder, information on freshet operations, impacts, and resources can be found on Flooding | City of Ottawa.
Starting Sunday, April 13, the traffic lanes on St. Patrick Street Bridge have been reduced from five lanes to four lanes until the end of summer 2027 as part of the renewal of the St. Patrick Street Bridge and Porter’s Island Bridge project. Two through lanes will be maintained in each direction and the right turn to Vanier Parkway will still be permitted.
Traffic impacts
Traffic flow across the St. Patrick Street Bridge is being maintained with two available traffic lanes in each direction but removal of one traffic lane may result in traffic delays.
Cycling and pedestrian impacts
Cycling and pedestrian facilities will function as usual in April. Starting in early May 2025, the eastbound cycling facility will be maintained across St. Patrick Street Bridge. The westbound cycling facility will be shared with bidirectional pedestrian traffic on the multi-use pathway across St. Patrick Street Bridge, with signage located at the beginning of the multi-use pathway.
OC Transpo service impacts
Bus route 19 will be impacted. For information on OC Transpo service, visit octranspo.com/alerts.
Stay informed. Visit ottawa.ca/stpatrickporterisland for additional details and specific traffic impacts.
New Plant Your Place! program - 21 trees still available for Ward 13
The City of Ottawa’s new Plant Your Place! program makes it simple for residents to plant trees on their private residential properties. Through the City-Wide Tree Distribution stream, any Ottawa resident with space for a tree can apply to receive one at no cost. The program launched March 31, and trees are available on a first-come, first-served basis. At this time, there are still 21 trees available for Ward 13. Approved participants will be invited to pick up their trees at a Tree Distribution Event this spring and will receive guidance on proper planting and care. Want to learn more about eligibility, planting requirements, and available tree species? Visit envirocentre.ca/plant-your-place for full details. EnviroCentre is proud to deliver the Plant Your Place! program in partnership with the City of Ottawa. Request a Tree!
New all-way stop control - Oakhill and Acacia
Changes are coming to Oakhill and Acacia as the City's Traffic Services department will install an all-way stop control at the intersection of Oakhill and Acacia in the Rockcliffe Park community to address traffic safety. The installation will include the necessary stop signs, painted stop lines and centerline approach markings. Installation is expected in mid-May. Temporary signage is expected to be installed by the end of this week.
Temporary lane closures - Springfield Road - April 21 to 24
Temporary lane closures will be in effect on Springfield Road to allow service installations at 115, 117 and 119 Springfield Road. The work will require excavation across the roadway, beginning on the west side of Springfield. This will require the temporary closure of the southbound lane on Springfield. Excavation will then take place on the east side of Springfield, requiring the temporary closure of the northbound lane, including the sidewalk and cycling lane. One lane will be open at all times to vehicle traffic, and traffic control personnel will be on-site to direct vehicles through safely and also to assist pedestrians and cyclists. Construction signage will also be in place. This work will resume Monday, April 21 and continue through to Thursday, April 24. Work times will begin at 9:30 am and continue until 3 pm each day until the work is completed.
- St. Laurent Complex in the Solarium Room, 515 Coté Street: Tuesday, April 22 from 6 to 8 pm.
- In Wateridge Village at Alliance Park on Hemlock Road at Codd's Road: Monday, April 28 from 5 to 7 pm. Look for the OC Transpo bus parked on Hemlock.
- St. Laurent Library branch, 515 Coté Street: Wednesday, April 30 from 1 to 4 pm.
At these community events, you'll be able to:
- View network and route maps.
- Find out about local service in your neighbourhood.
- See how connections to the O-Train get you to key destinations.
OC Transpo will be planning additional community events after the launch. Stay tuned for future event dates and locations.
Bike Bus to Manor Park Public School - April 22
On Tuesday, April 22, join a fun-filled way to celebrate Earth Day and active transportation to school! The ride will start from the Pauline Charron cul-de-sac and then proceed through the pathway and turn right onto Dunbarton Court before proceeding down St. Laurent toward Manor Park Public School.
ROUTE AND SCHEDULEWhen: Wednesday, April 23.
Where: 815 St. Laurent Blvd, Room 215.
Drop-in hours:
12:00 to 1:00 pm
4:00 to 6:00 pm
Federal Election Trivia starts at 5:00 pm. Test your knowledge and win prizes!
Pick up resources from Elections Canada & get your questions answered! Details: www.cawi-ivtf.org
Ottawa Family Cinema presents The Wild Robot in 3D - April 26
Join the Ottawa Family Cinema at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, on April 26 at 2 pm for a screening of The Wild Robot in 3D. Bring your whole family for this incredible motion picture 3D experience. Tickets are available at the door or at familycinema.ca.
Rockcliffe Park Spring Book Sale - April 26 and 27
Everyone is invited to 380 Springfield Road for two days filled with literary treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a bookworm, a casual reader, or just looking for a good read, this event is perfect for you. Browse through a wide selection of books ranging from fiction to non-fiction, children's books to classics. Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your library and support a good cause. Admission is no charge and registration is not required. All are welcome.
Intro to Improv - Until April 30
Come and try improv at the Rideau Community Hub, 815 St Laurent Blvd., until April 30, 6:30-8:30 pm. Improv builds your self-confidence, your creativity and your communication skills. But most of all it is about rediscovering the joy of play. Beat the post-winter blues, make new friends, and treat yourself to some unforgettable laughs. 18 yrs+ Learn more at: improvembassy.corsizio.com/event/67baa514de4e309e8d5dc713 or check out the Improv Embassy website at www.improvembassy.com.
Rockcliffe Park Speakers Series - April 30
Phillippa Cranston Baran, sister of the late Toller Cranston, on Toller Cranston: Ice, Paint, Passion. Based on her award-winning book and aided by video footage, Phillippa Cranston Baran, Toller’s sister, a writer and film producer, will tell us stories about this iconic Canadian – his glory days when he forever transformed figure skating, his career as a distinguished international artist, and more. Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 8 pm. Rockcliffe Park Community Hall, 380 Springfield Rd. Rockcliffe Park. Details: rockcliffepark.ca/2025/03/11/speaker-night-april-30-philippa-cranston-baran
Phase 5 Transportation Master Plan public consultation opportunities - May 1
The City is getting ready to launch the Transportation Master Plan Phase 5 public consultation! City staff will share draft recommendations for the Transportation Master Plan's Capital Infrastructure Plan, including the proposed transit and road networks, project priorities, and implementation plan. Stay tuned for consultation materials that will be posted at the end of March. The City will host online and in-person public consultation sessions on the Transportation Master Plan's Capital Infrastructure Plan.
There are four online consultation sessions, including one for Central Ottawa on May 1 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Residents are welcome to attend any of the four virtual sessions, regardless of where they live. The content at all the virtual events will be very similar, and will include the full set of projects for the entire city, along with a few additional slides that are customized to each area. Virtual sessions will include a presentation followed by a question-and-answer period. To register for the Central session, visit us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/2xvzvSGGQvSsVTcPLOwvBg#/registration
For more information and to register for a virtual session, please visit Engage Ottawa.
Rawlson King and Linda Grussani Scholarship for Indigenous, Black and Other Racialized Students - Applications & nominations due by May 1
- Steven Boyle will lead a walk focusing on "Overbrook bridges" on May 3 starting at 12 pm, starting near the Adàwe Crossing. The talk will be delivered in French. Learn more here: www.janeswalkottawa.ca/en/walks/janes-walk-ottawa-gatineau-2025/22008
- Glenn Clark will lead a guided tour of "Overbrook Highlights" on May 3 starting at 10 am at North River Road and Wright Street. This discussion will be in English. Details: www.janeswalkottawa.ca/en/walks/janes-walk-ottawa-gatineau-2025/22015
- John Savage will lead the "Kettle Island Bridge walking tour and advocacy discussion" on May 3 starting at 1:30 pm at the front entrance of the NCC River House. This discussion will be in English. More info here: www.janeswalkottawa.ca/en/walks/janes-walk-ottawa-gatineau-2025/22010
- Corrie Rabbe will lead an "edible and medicinal plant walk" on May 4 starting at 1 pm. Meet at the Adàwe Crossing on the east side. This talk will be delivered in English. Details: www.janeswalkottawa.ca/en/walks/janes-walk-ottawa-gatineau-2025/22001
- Diane Cuillerier will lead a walking tour of the Carson Grove neighbourhood on May 4 beginning at 1:30 pm starting at Dr. John Hopps Park at 300 Den Haag Drive. This talk will be delivered in English and French. Details: www.janeswalkottawa.ca/en/walks/janes-walk-ottawa-gatineau-2025/22007
- Elizabeth Heatherington will give a guided tour of the "Diplomatic Residences in the Village of Rockcliffe Park" on May 4 starting at 1 pm starting at the Rockcliffe Library, 380 Springfield Road. This tour will be delivered in English. Details: www.janeswalkottawa.ca/en/walks/janes-walk-ottawa-gatineau-2025/22014
- John Savage will guide a walk focusing on "Reclaiming our Indigenous History and Stories: The Rockcliffe Park Canoe Portage" on May 4 at 2 pm starting at the Rockcliffe Park Pavilion. This discussion will be in English. Details: www.janeswalkottawa.ca/en/walks/janes-walk-ottawa-gatineau-2025/22023
Road closures - Sussex Drive and Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway - May 4
-
Sussex Dr. 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Closed Rideau St. to Sir George-Étienne Cartier Pkwy (Rockcliffe Pkwy).
Access to Notre Dame Basilica via Guigues Ave.
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Sir George-Étienne Cartier Pkwy (Rockcliffe Pkwy) 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Closed Princess St. to St. Joseph Blvd.
Local access to Canada Aviation and Space Museum and Rockcliffe Flying Club from Aviation Pkwy.
Local access to Rockcliffe Boathouse from Lisgar Rd.
Rogers has applied to the City for permission to install fibre optic conduit along Sandridge Road between Merriman Avenue and Blenheim Drive starting approximately May 6, depending on the permit approval process. It’s anticipated that the work will take 3 to 5 business days. The work will include boring and trenching along the right-of-way and the placement of conduit to service a City of Ottawa pumping station on Sandridge.
The City is looking for the public's feedback on the design concept of the Eugene Martineau Fieldhouse, located at 710 Mikinak Road in Wateridge Village. The new building will sit west of the existing rink and basketball court and east of the existing trees, which will be protected. Pedestrian links to the multi-use pathway along Mikinak and internal park pathways will be provided. This facility will provide a multi-use community space for meetings and gatherings, a kitchenette to support facility usage, change room space for skating, and facilities for community events and equipment storage. Four washrooms will support the community. Construction is slated to begin in 2026, but before the City breaks ground, staff would like your input. Share your thoughts by completing an online survey by May 16. For details, please visit Engage Ottawa.
Volunteer award nominations accepted until May 30
Every year, Volunteer Ottawa seeks nominations for the top volunteers and volunteer programs to celebrate at the VOscars Volunteer Awards Gala! Whether you’re nominating yourself, a friend, family member or an organization, your nominations are key to helping celebrate volunteerism in the Ottawa area. Nominations close May 30. Visit Volunteer Ottawa for details.
Ottawa Community Housing is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Inspired by Learning bursary program designed to support 30 post-secondary students living in Ottawa Community Housing (OCH) households. This initiative aims to remove any financial barriers and encourage students to pursue their education with more confidence. The deadline to apply is June 2. For details, please visit ochfoundation.ca.
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Spring to Spring is an event that encourages students to arrive at school by walking and wheeling their way to school. It’s also a celebration of being active outdoors and the new Spring season. Active transportation can help students build self-esteem and creates less traffic in the school zone. Enjoy the quality time you get to spend with your family as you travel to school together!
To celebrate Earth Week 2025, Ecology Ottawa is once again hosting the Eco Awards, highlighting the people, places, plants, trees, and animals of Ottawa that inspire us, bring the community together, and enrich our ecosystem. Ecology Ottawa believes that environmental action is for everybody. Your nominee could be a neighbour, teacher, scientist, activist, artist, innovator, policy maker, community or religious leader, or youth. In addition to nominating community members, we call on you to nominate the places, plants, trees, and animals of Ottawa that you cherish and need our protection. Please make a nomination today! Nominations close April 20. For last year's recipients, see here.
The Council on Aging in Ottawa is hosting its Spring Luncheon on April 23 beginning at 11 am, at the Infinity Conference Centre, 2901 Gibford Drive. This year’s keynote speaker is the Rt. Hon. Adrienne Clarkson, the 26th Governor General of Canada. The event begins with a networking reception, cash bar, and silent auction at 11:00 am, followed by lunch and the formal program at noon. For tickets and more information, please visit coaottawa.ca/spring-luncheon-2025
The New Ways to Bus route network launches on Sunday, April 27, and will be the largest bus service change in the City’s history, impacting most customers and bus routes. New Ways to Bus is a big step towards OC Transpo’s goal of increasing service reliability to 99.5%, improving connectivity to community hubs, and providing a sustainable network that meets the evolving needs of our customers. Changes include:
- New routes introduced
- Adjusted schedules and routings
- More accurate scheduled times on some segments of the network
- Some routes retired and replaced with alternative service
- Some routes shortened, extended, or divided
- Some routes renumbered
- Revised service for some middle schools and high schools
- Revised service to major destinations like hospitals, universities and colleges, and between Ottawa and Gatineau
- New connections with O-Train Lines 2 and 4
Release of Draft 2 of the New Zoning Bylaw - Consultations May 29, June 2 and 3
Public Engagement Events:
- In-Person Workshop: June 2 at Ben Franklin Place
- Virtual Open Houses: May 29 and June 3
Adopt-a-Road/Adopt-a-Park program
Since the program’s inception in 1996, the Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road program continues to see annual growth in program participation. The program attracts many civic-minded and environmentally conscious individuals, families, community groups and businesses that are committed to keeping public spaces clean, green, and litter-free.
The program currently has over 260 active Adopt agreements, including over 170 park adoptions and nearly 90 road adoptions. In 2024, Adopt program staff received over 50 new Adopt applications and processed over 40 renewal applications. Adopt participants make a commitment to cleaning up a park, or a kilometre or more of roadway, for a period of two or five years, and generously volunteer their time to clean up litter and debris a minimum of twice a year – typically, once in the spring and once in the fall. To recognize these valuable efforts, a sign displaying the name of the program, and the adopting individual or group is installed (upon request) at the park or along the roadway.
Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road applications will be accepted annually between March 15 and September 15, rather than year-round. This targeted application period aligns with the spring and fall Cleaning the Capital campaigns.
Ottawa’s Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road program invites you to be a part of something amazing! You can make a difference by volunteering to keep your local park or roadside litter-free. Register to volunteer: Ottawa.ca/adopt
Survey for thermal resilience research
Emergency Services News
Warning: OPS and OPP Alert Public to New Scam Targeting Seniors with Fake Gold Investment Schemes
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are warning the public about a new scam where criminals are tricking elderly people into buying and shipping large amounts of gold to avoid financial loss. The OPS has received reports from two elderly victims who were scammed into buying over $500,000 worth of gold each, which the suspects arrange to pick up from the victim at their residence. The OPP in Norfolk County has also reported a similar case, with losses of nearly $350,000. This scam is a new version of the "Grandparent Scam," where criminals previously claimed a loved one was in trouble and needed money for bail. Now, the scam artists are telling victims that the only way to protect their money is to buy gold.
The OPS and OPP are urging everyone, especially older people, to be careful and follow these tips:
- Do not buy gold or gift cards if you get unexpected pop-up messages, emails, or phone calls.
- If someone asks you to buy gold or gift cards to protect your money, talk to a trusted family member or friend before doing anything.
- If you think you’ve been targeted or already lost money, call 211 or your local police right away.
For details, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Beware of distraction thefts targeting jewellery, wallets, phones, purse contents
The Ottawa Police Service is warning the public about recent distraction thefts across the city. Suspects often approach individuals who are alone in public spaces, particularly in parking lots, and engage in conversation under false pretenses — such as asking for directions or offering a gift. In many cases, they attempt to place a piece of jewellery, such as a necklace, around the person’s neck while distracting them. Victims typically realize only afterward that a valuable item has been stolen. These suspects are known to use charm and deception to get close, and they often target visible jewellery or personal belongings. For tips on how to protect yourself and for more details, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Ottawa Police Service Hosts 44th Annual North American Police Soccer Tournament
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is proud to announce that it will host the 44th Annual North American Police Soccer Tournament (NAPST) on September 10th to 12th, 2025, in Ottawa. This event will bring together police officers from across North America to compete in a series of soccer matches designed to foster camaraderie, teamwork, and physical fitness among law enforcement officers. Additionally, the tournament aims to support the community, with all proceeds being donated to the National Capital Blues Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting at-risk youth in Ottawa through sports, education, and community initiatives. Details: ottawapolice.ca
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.