July 18, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Your Councillor in the Community
It was an honour and a privilege to attend the opening of the 35th annual Lebanese Festival at St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral this week!
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Jeffrey, Arundel, Farnham, Finter, Braemar and Kilbarry Integrated Renewal - Public Information Session - July 30
The City of Ottawa invites Manor Park residents to attend a public information session on July 30 at 1805 Gaspe Avenue in the main hall to discuss the proposed infrastructure improvement project in the Manor Park community. Through this session, the City of Ottawa will be presenting the detailed design drawings, construction information and expectations, and information regarding proposed sidewalks related to the Jeffrey Avenue, Arundel Avenue, Farnham Crescent, Kilbarry Crescent, Finter Street and Braemar Street integrated renewal project in advance of the start of construction in summer 2025. Doors will open at 6 pm to allow time to review the displays before the presentation begins at 6:30 pm. In addition to this meeting, residents can also participate through viewing and commenting on the online documents to be posted on the project webpage in mid-July. Input from Manor Park residents is an important part of the consultation process. Your feedback can be submitted via the online form, by email or by phone to the contact below by August 30, 2025.
- Arundel Avenue, from Farnham Crescent to St-Laurent Boulevard
- Braemar Street, from Ava Road to Arundel Avenue
- Farnham Crescent, from Ava Road to north-side dead-end
- Finter Street, from St-Laurent Boulevard to west-side dead-end
- Jeffrey Avenue, from St-Laurent Boulevard to Braemar Street
- Kilbarry Crescent, from Sandridge Road to Ava Road
Who: The engineering firm, Novatech, has been retained by the City of Ottawa to develop design drawings for this project.
Project details are available at ottawa.ca.
Manor Park Sidewalks Survey:
In addition to the public information session, Councillor Rawlson King is inviting Manor Park residents to complete a sidewalks survey at this link.
Borthwick, Trojan, Forbes and Cummings community party - July 19 (rain date July 20)
Pints in the Park - July 19
The Manor Park Community Council is hosting its SIXTH Annual Pints in the Park for 2025, featuring beer, food and music! Manor Park's favourite community event is an outdoor, adult-focused but family-friendly afternoon featuring cold pints served by local craft breweries - plus delicious local eats & treats, and live music. This inclusive event welcomes everyone from across the city. The event - and community centre - are fully accessible. Free admission. All welcome. Accessible site (flat grass) and washrooms. Credit & debit card only for beverage sales. Details: manorpark.ca
Free community fitness class in Wateridge Village - every Sunday
A Company of Fools Theatre presents The Comedy of Errors in parks across Ottawa this summer
The Fools are back on tour!! Join A Company of Fools for their 7-week Shakespearean summer marathon, featuring The Comedy of Errors! Be among the first visitors to their Foolish Mushroom Kingdom and prepare to laugh ‘til you fall out of your lawn chair. Here’s where they'll be playing this coming week near Ward 13:
- July 21 - Strathcona Park
- July 26 - Stanley Park
- July 28 - Strathcona Park
- August 4 - Strathcona Park
- August 11 - Strathcona Park
Vanier BIA AKOUSTIK at St. Charles Market - July 23, 30
Join the Vanier BIA this summer for AKOUSTIK , a FREE outdoor live music event at the St. Charles Market at the corner of Beechwood Avenue and St. Charles Street. Live music, warm evenings, and local talent—this free outdoor concert series brings the rhythm of summer to Vanier from July to September. Enjoy takeout from your favourite local spots with special AKOUSTIC meal deals! For details and updates, please visit vanierbia.com/akoustik.
- Wednesdays 6pm – 8pm • St. Charles Market
- Dates: July 23, 30 • August 13, 27 • September 3, 10, 17
Free Back-to-School Supplies - until August 1
Rideau-Rockcliffe residents are invited to register to receive back-to-school supplies before August 1 for students in kindergarten to Grade 12. Open to families with postal codes K1K, K1M and some K1G. Register online here.
IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa - August 3 (Road closures coming to parts of Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward)
With Ironman taking place in Ottawa, August, some road closures will be in effect in Ward 13, including Sussex Drive and Sir George-Etienne Cartier Parkway, during the cycling portion of the event. As part of the ROKA Swim Course, athletes will take on a 1-loop 3.8 km swim in the Ottawa River from Brittania Park, offering ample room for spectators to cheer them on. For the ZOOT Bike Course, athletes will traverse a 2.75 loop course of a scenic 180 km (112-mile) route. This course is completely closed to traffic with mild elevation changes and smooth roads, with iconic landmarks such as Embassy Row and serene landscapes to the east. The HOKA Run Course features a flat 42.2 km (26.2-mile) route that will guide athletes through the bustling city of Ottawa, offering plenty of spectator support. The finish line, set against the backdrop of the Parliament of Canada, promises a memorable conclusion to the day’s race. The event begins on August 3 at 6 am. The timing of the road closures will be made available soon. Details: www.ironman.com/races/im-canada-ottawa/course#bike
Please be aware that Enbridge Gas will be replacing natural gas pipelines in our ward with a new 16-inch gas main. This work is scheduled to continue October 2025 and will include overnight and weekend work. The traffic management plan requires periodic lane closures along the length of Coventry Road from the Vanier Parkway, around the St. Laurent Shopping Centre, to the intersection of Ogilvie Road and Cummings Avenue. Access to area homes and businesses will be maintained. During the duration of this work, area residents may experience traffic detours, sidewalk closures, and construction noise. Some customers may experience short-term disruptions to their natural gas service but will be notified of this in advance by Enbridge representatives. Project updates: www.enbridgegas.com
A Fundraising Feast Beneath the Trees
Step into a twilight dream under the canopy of Beechwood’s storied trees, where candlelight flickers, laughter drifts on the breeze, and generosity takes root. Partage Beechwood is no ordinary dinner — it’s a spellbinding evening of food, community, and purpose, hosted by the Vanier BIA alongside Beechwood Cemetery, The National Cemetery of Canada and the Vanier Community Service Centre, with the support of many kind-hearted sponsors. The event takes place August 20 from 5:30 to 10 pm at 280 Beechwood Avenue. Tickets are on sale now.
Overbrook residents with heat pumps needed for local showcase
Do you have a heat pump in your home? The Overbrook Community Association is looking for Overbrook residents to volunteer for a local Heat Pump Showcase which is being organized by the Overbrook Community Association, Electrify613 and For Our Kids. It’s a great opportunity to share your experience, help demystify heat pumps, and support others in the community to learn about how to use heat pumps for a more comfortable, healthier and sustainable home. All types of homes are encouraged to participate including new, old, single family, multi-unit, duplex, townhouse etc. What’s involved? You’ll talk to neighbours in front of your home about your system, how it works, and what you’ve learned. The OCA will support you every step of the way and make sure everything runs smoothly. Next Steps: If you’re interested or want to learn more, please email Michael Shoesmith at [email protected]. Thank you for helping to build a more sustainable community!
NCC approves National Capital Core Area Plan
The National Capital Commission (NCC) has published its updated National Capital Core Area Plan, a framework outlining the development strategy for Canada’s national capital over the next 25 years. Three primary strategic objectives form the foundation of the Core Area Plan: orienting development toward waterfront areas to maximize the capital’s natural assets, establishing enhanced public spaces to serve residents and visitors, and improving connectivity to strengthen links between neighbourhoods and key destinations. These objectives are incorporated throughout the plan’s physical concept, which identifies opportunities to utilize waterfront locations, address gaps in the capital’s urban infrastructure, and develop street networks. The plan proposes conceptual projects to address the downtown core while considering climate resilience, economic development, public accessibility, housing, and reconciliation. Over the next year, the NCC will develop specific sector plans based on the Core Area Plan’s objectives and ideas. Concerns have been raised regarding proposed development plans in the Core Area Plan by local residents. Residents can continue to provide input to the NCC through its ongoing public consultation processes as they continue to refine their plans. Details are available at ncc-ccn.gc.ca
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Chamberfest - July 18 to 27
Chamberfest brings Ottawa to life with a bold celebration of chamber music – from timeless masterworks to daring new sounds. Don’t miss international stars, trailblazing Canadian artists, and once-in-a-lifetime collaborations lighting up stages across the city from July 18 to 27. Iconic Ottawa venues like Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, the NAC’s Rossy Pavilion, GCTC, and Beechwood Sacred Space will be buzzing with energy. Explore the full lineup at chamberfest.com!
Now Recruiting: Power Wheelchair Hockey Players in Ottawa!
Do you know someone who uses a power wheelchair and is looking to get active, have fun, and be part of a team? The Ottawa Power Wheelchair Hockey League (OPWHL) is currently recruiting new players for its 2025–2026 season! Games are held Sunday afternoons at Greenboro Community Centre, and all hockey equipment is provided. No experience necessary – just bring your energy and interest. To learn more or register, visit www.facebook.com/Opwhl or email [email protected].
Private Approach Bylaw Review - Residents invited to submit questions
The City of Ottawa is conducting a review and update of the Private Approach By-law, which regulates the construction, use and maintenance of private approaches in the city. A private approach is the part of a vehicle access to private property that is on the City’s right of way (i.e. the portion of a driveway that is on City property). Existing rules for driveways and permits can be found on ottawa.ca/driveways. The updated by-law will set the rules for how driveways cross City land, covering design details, permits and maintenance, while also creating clear direction for walkways. These rules will be consistent with the new Zoning By-law. The City is checking its internal processes to ensure permitting is handled smoothly. Review of the technical aspects of the by-law will continue through the fall. Residents will have an opportunity to hear about the updated by-law and give feedback before staff bring their final recommendations to the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee in 2026. City staff welcome the opportunity to answer your questions related to this review. Please send questions through the online tool and staff will get back to you.
Now Booking Stormwater Assessments for Multi-Unit Residential Buildings
Rain Ready Ottawa is inviting applications from multi-unit residential buildings—up to three storeys, excluding basements—for free stormwater management property assessments. Priority will be given to buildings located in the City’s Priority Stormwater Retrofit Area. To apply, the intake form must be completed by someone authorized to represent the property, such as a property owner, manager, Condo Board member, or homeowners association representative. Please note that submitting the form does not guarantee an assessment. These assessments will help guide the development of potential future rebates designed specifically for multi-unit properties. While no dedicated rebates exist yet, participating in an assessment does not affect your eligibility for current RRO rebates—some of which may still apply to your property.
Development On-Site Signs Policy Update 2025 - Survey open until July 23
As part of the Development Sign Policy update, the City of Ottawa is reviewing the process for development on-site sign installations. For details and to complete the survey before July 23, please visit Engage Ottawa.
10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan Refresh - Survey available until July 25
Every municipality in Ontario is required to have a 10-Year Plan and to review and update it every five years. The City’s 10-Year Plan was approved by Council in June, 2020, so the mid-point review is underway. The review includes:
- Assessing the current and future housing needs
- Creating objectives and targets to meet the housing needs
- Reviewing how we’ll achieve the plan’s goals
- Determining how we’ll measure progress
Engagement and Project Updates: Throughout the mid-point refresh for the 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan, staff will be looking for input from residents and providing updates on the project. The survey is open until July 25.
Yellow Bag Program for Small Businesses Survey - Open until July 25
The City of Ottawa is reviewing waste collection services provided to small businesses to determine the future of the Yellow Bag Program following recent and upcoming changes impacting waste and recycling collection for small businesses. Engagement with business owners currently receiving municipal waste collection as part of the Yellow Bag Program for Small Businesses is being undertaken to understand potential opportunities and waste challenges for this program. Feedback will be used to help inform the recommendations for the future of the program. Solid Waste Services staff have launched a survey shared via email with small business owners registered for the Yellow Bag Program. The survey is available for these business owners to complete until July 25, 2025. Note: This program review excludes the residential Yellow Bag Program for households exceeding the Three-Item Garbage Limit.
O-Train Line 1 affected by planned integration works - July 27 & 27
O-Train Line 1 service will be affected on some weekends in July as planned integration work continues for the O-Train East extension. The following service adjustments are planned this month:
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On Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27:
- O-Train Line 1 will be fully closed all weekend.
- R1 bus service will run between Tunney’s Pasture and Blair stations.
Every effort is being made to minimize customer impacts while the O-Train East extension testing and commissioning continues through the summer. OC Transpo staff will be at key stations to support customers during their trips. For updates and trip planning assistance, visit octranspo.com.
O-Train Line 2 service adjustments in July
From July 21 to July 25, and July 28 to August 2, after 8 pm, Line 2 train frequency will be reduced for monitoring equipment to be installed near South Keys Station. For details, visit octranspo.com.
Fall recreation programming dates - view programs online July 29
- View online on July 29.
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Register online for:
- Fall swimming activities August 12 at 9 pm.
- All fall activities August 14 at 9 pm.
Take a look at what’s on offer and register today at register.ottawa.ca
Rain Ready DIY Stormwater Assessment Webinar - July 29
Want to prevent water pooling or flooding around your home? Assessing your home to improve stormwater management is easier than you think! Residents are invited to attend a Rain Ready webinar on DIY Stormwater Assessments. In this Rain Ready Ottawa webinar, you'll learn how to:
- Identify where water flows and collects on your lot.
- Understand how it can impact your home and the environment.
- Choose the most effective stormwater solutions for your conditions.
Join us for this practical webinar to learn how to look at your yard with a new lens! Presentation will be in English and Q and A will be bilingual. Join us for this practical webinar to learn how to look at your yard with a new lens! For details and to register, visit Eventbrite.
Emergency Services News
Beware of distraction thefts targeting jewelry, 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 jewelry, 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 jewelry or personal belongings.
Four ways to help protect yourself and others:
- Avoid displaying expensive or sentimental jewelry in public; keep it covered when possible.
- Stay alert to your surroundings, especially in parking lots and less busy areas.
- Do not allow strangers to invade your personal space or touch you — if someone tries to place an object on you, it’s a red flag.
- If approached by a stranger under suspicious circumstances, walk away and seek help if needed.
Thieves may target jewelry, but wallets, phones, and purses are also at risk. Details: ottawapolice.ca
Ottawa Police expand Safe Trade Program with new locations
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is pleased to announce the addition of new Safe Trade parking spots at its Greenbank and Leitrim police stations. First launched in September 2023 at three OPS locations, Safe Trade Zones are designed to enhance personal safety when completing trades arranged through online marketplaces, classified websites, or other personal sales.
New Safe Trade Locations:
- 245 Greenbank Road, Nepean (Greenbank Police Station)
- 4561 Bank Street, Gloucester (Leitrim Police Station)
Existing Safe Trade Locations:
- 466 Metcalfe Street (visitors' parking lot behind 474 Elgin Street)
- 211 Huntmar Drive (Kanata Police Station)
- 3343 St-Joseph Boulevard (Orléans Police Station)
Details: ottawapolice.ca
Ottawa Police Service 2024 Annual Report
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has released its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting a year of significant operational activity, strategic growth, and continued work to strengthen community trust and safety.
The report outlines key achievements in service delivery, member support, and public safety, as OPS managed hundreds of demonstrations, responded to major incidents, and advanced several organizational priorities.
Progress in 2024 included:
- The hiring of 134 new sworn officers—the largest intake in OPS history—with further recruitment planned for 2025.
- Continued rollout of the District Policing model
- Ongoing construction of the South Facility, which will improve service capabilities across the city.
- The introduction of new specialized units, including a Parliamentary District, Mounted Unit, and Helicopter Program.
- Expansion of the Special Constable pilot program to provide added support to frontline operations.
- Targeted enforcement and safety efforts guided by the CORE Strategy, delivering strong results in areas like the ByWard Market.
- Major investigative successes, including Project Champion and other high-impact joint operations with our law enforcement partners targeting organized crime and gang activity.
Key Statistics from 2024:
- Over 378,200 demands for service were received through both calls for service and online reporting—12% lower than in 2023 (427,500) and 1% higher than the five-year average (373,300).
- 50,600 Criminal Code offences reported (excluding traffic), a 5% increase year-over-year.
- 26% clearance rate for reported offences, down slightly from 28% in 2023.
- Crime Severity Index (CSI) rose 2% to 55; Non-Violent CSI increased 3%, while Violent CSI remained stable.
- Violent crime increased by 1%, led by more assaults, sexual offences, and deaths.
- Property-related offences rose by 6%, primarily theft and fraud; motor vehicle thefts declined by 21%.
- 21 homicide incidents, with 26 victims; 16 cases have been solved.
- Shootings dropped by 27%, from 73 to 53; 104 crime guns were seized.
- 19,800 roadway collisions, up 1%, while traffic fatalities decreased to 18, from 27 in 2023.
The full 2024 Annual Report is available at ottawapolice.ca/2024AR.
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.