July 4th, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
- Alvin Heights Park wading pool, 352 London Terrace - June 23 to August 17
- Optimiste Park wading pool, 43 Ste. Cécile Street - July 1 to August 24
- St. Laurent Complex wading pool, 525 Côté Street - June 23 to August 17
- St. Paul's Park wading pool, 469 Donald Street - June 23 to August 17
- Overbrook Park wading pool, 33 Quill Street - June 30 to August 24
- St. Paul's Park, 489 Donald Street: Mondays from 6 to 6:30 pm
- Overbrook Park, 33 Quill Street: Tuesdays from 7 to 7:30 pm
- Riverain Park, 400 North River Road - open with reduced functionality due to repair work
- New Edinburgh Park, 203 Stanley Avenue
- Manor Park, 100 Braemar Street
- Lawson Park, 491 Lawson Avenue
- Trojan Park, 901 Trojan Avenue
- Cummings Park, 1060 Cummings Avenue
- Whiterock Park, 1245 Matheson Road
- Dr. John Hopps Park, 300 Den Haag Drive
- Thorncliffe Park, 45 Provender Avenue
- Eugene Martineau Park, 710 Mikinak Road
- Wing Officer Willa Walker Park, 305 Lysander Place
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
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 take place beginning the week of June 23 to 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
Eastern Bridge in the National Capital Region - First phase of public engagement - open until July 10
The NCC announced at its June 19 board meeting the following:
The Government of Canada is moving forward with the next phase of the new interprovincial bridge project on the Montée Paiement–Aviation Parkway Corridor. This corridor has been consistently identified as the technically preferred corridor for an additional interprovincial bridge in the eastern part of the National Capital Region. In 2021, the federal government assembled an integrated project team with staff from both Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) and the National Capital Commission (NCC). PSPC leads the overall project planning and delivery, which includes the design, procurement and construction of the bridge. As a member of the integrated project team, the NCC continues to provide support to this project, namely in areas of transportation planning, impact assessment and engagement activities. The construction of a new bridge is a long and complex process. This project is in the pre-planning phase. A number of studies and assessments remain to be completed. At this time, the NCC has the authorization to further assess potential impacts and define the required functionality at the identified location.
First phase of public participation activities: June 19 to July 10, 2025
In this first round of public engagement, we invite you to share your thoughts on the project’s early planning and design principles. Your input will also inform the initial project description, which will be submitted to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada as part of the federal Impact Assessment process. Results will be shared with the integrated project team, including Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) and the National Capital Commission (NCC). Your feedback will play a key role in:
- Identifying the project’s most important benefits from a community perspective;
- Understanding potential impacts on people, places, and the environment—and exploring ways to mitigate them; and
- Shaping the initial planning and design principles that will guide the project’s development in future phases.
The NCC's first meetings with the Public Advisory Groups will also take place in the summer of 2025. For more information or to sign up for the NCC's public engagement mailing list, please visit https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/projects/eastern-bridge-in-the-national-capital-region.
Help Inspire Your Neighbours – Showcase Your Heat Pump!
Do you have a heat pump in your home? If so, we’d love your help!
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. We’ll 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!
VegOttawa Fest - July 5
VegOttawa Association is thrilled to announce that VegOttawa Fest will take place at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre at 200 Coventry Rd on Saturday, July 5, 2025, from 10am to 6pm. Admission is FREE! (Donations to VegOttawa are appreciated and will be accepted at the door.) This will be Ottawa’s first Veg Fest since 2019, when thousands of people from across the city and beyond gathered to try new foods, meet new people, and learn from leaders in the movement. With plant-based foods being more popular than ever before, this event is sure to be unlike any other.
Rockcliffe Park Centennial Garden - Feedback welcome until July 4
The City is looking for feedback on the proposed Centennial Garden restoration project located in Village Green Park, 270 Springfield Road, in the Rockcliffe Park community. The proposed concept is available for review at Engage Ottawa. Feedback is welcome by July 4.
St. Laurent Boulevard Transit Priority Corridor Environmental Assessment Study - Comments due by July 10
The City of Ottawa has initiated an Environmental Assessment (EA) Study for the St. Laurent Boulevard Transit Priority Corridor. The Study Corridor is St. Laurent Boulevard from Hemlock Road to Innes Road/Industrial Avenue. The EA study has investigated options to improve transit service efficiency and travel environment for all modes (walking, cycling, transit, autos and trucks) as appropriate along the corridor. The online survey will be available until July 10. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Vanier BIA Akoustik at St. Charles - upcoming date July 16th
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 Akoustik meal deals!
- Wednesdays 6pm – 8pm • St. Charles Market
- Dates: July 16, 23, 30 • August 13, 27 • September 3, 10, 17
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. July 19, 2025, from 2:00 - 7:00 PM at 100 Thornwood Road Free admission. All welcome. Accessible site (flat grass) and washrooms. Credit & debit card only for beverage sales. Details: manorpark.ca
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.
A Company of Fools Theatre Inc's - June 28- August 16
The Fools are back on tour!!
Join A Company of Fools for their 7-week Shakespearean summer marathon! Be among the first visitors to our Foolish Mushroom Kingdom and prepare to laugh ‘till you fall out of your lawn chair. Here’s where they'll be playing this coming week near Ward 13 …
July 4th - Nault Park
All shows kick off at 7pm, weather permitting. They keep their social media updated in case of any unforeseen cancellations.
Find Your Park → https://www.fools.ca/comedy-of-errors
Swimming at the NCC River House - until Sept. 1
Until September 1, the swimming area is open daily from 7:30 am to sunset. The River House, at 501 Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, offers universally accessible changerooms with showers, lockers (bring your own lock) and a change table, making it the perfect pit stop during a nice bike ride. Details: ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/ncc-river-house
This summer, discover Ingenium museums with the Canada Strong Pass
This summer, the new Canada Strong Pass program is offering free and discounted access for children and youth to cultural and heritage institutions across the country—including right here in Ottawa at all three Ingenium museums. From June 20 to September 2, 2025, the program offers free admission for children and youths under 17, and 50% off admission for young adults aged 18 to 24. The Canada Strong Pass is designed to offer Canadians more opportunities for discovery and to make cultural learning more accessible to families. Locally, this includes free access to all three Ingenium museums, including the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Rideau–Rockcliffe Ward. Visitors will enjoy a range of enriching experiences through the Canada Strong Pass—a gateway to exploring Canada’s rich legacy of science and innovation. This initiative echoes a powerful moment of Canadian unity and national pride that’s resonating around the country. Details: tickets.ingenium.ca/discounts
New sidewalks & streetlight replacements coming to Overbrook
City staff are planning for the construction of new sidewalks in Overbrook 105 metres along the north side of Presland Road to Frances Street and on the south side of both Presland Road and Hardy Avenue from Frances to the existing sidewalk on Bernard Street. Construction is anticipated to start this summer and be completed by this fall. This initiative will complete a missing link in the neighbourhood's pedestrian network, improving walkability to Queen Mary Public School, local parks, the St. Laurent Shopping Centre and bus stops on St. Laurent Boulevard and Lola Street. The new sidewalks will require narrowing the width of the road, which is expected to assist in calming traffic. The project will include roadway catch basin adjustments to improve roadway drainage and streetlighting infrastructure repairs and replacements. Completion is expected in fall 2025. The project plans are available at this link. More details about the sidewalk project are available at ottawa.ca.
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Transit summer service change begins June 29
Regular schedule adjustments take place four times a year – spring, summer, fall and winter – and details are provided in advance of each new schedule period. These summer service changes, beginning June 29, reflect seasonal changes in ridership. Use the Travel Planner or Transit app to check if your regular trips are affected. For details, please visit octranspo.com.
Highlights
- Routes 8, 25, 33, 63, 70, 74, and 110 may have trips added or adjusted.
- School service removed.
- Weekend service to summer destinations on Routes 8, 125, and 139 return.
Extreme Heat Resources
Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable. There are many public places residents and visitors can cool off in Ottawa and also ways to cool off at home even if you do not have air conditioning.
- The Salvation Army Outreach Van is operational 24/7, and staff are equipped to direct or transport individuals experiencing homelessness to places to cool off.
- Residents can access cooling locations across the city — including libraries, community centres, beaches, swimming pools and splash pads — which are listed on OPH’s interactive Places to Cool Off map. When a heat event is declared by Environment Canada, the City’s Recreation, Cultural and Facility Services will remove some lanes to accommodate public swimmers during scheduled lane swims.
- For information on available services, concerned or impacted residents are encouraged to call 3-1-1. For medical emergency assistance such as heat stroke, call 9-1-1. Residents can call 8-1-1 Health Connect Ontario for non-emergency medical advice.
- Call 2-1-1 for locations of overnight shelters and services for people experiencing homelessness in Ottawa.
- Call 3-1-1 to get assistance for someone who needs transportation to a shelter to get out of the heat.
For a full range of Extreme Heat resources, please visit the Ottawa Public Health website.
The Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass - valid July 2 to August 31
This summer, Ottawa's youth have an exciting opportunity to stay active and healthy, thanks to the Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass. Now in its third year, this initiative is part of a ten-year partnership between Tony Graham Automotive Group and the City of Ottawa, aimed at investing in recreation programming for youth across our city. The Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass offers a free weight and cardio-room membership to Ottawa youth aged 13 to 17. This pass is valid from July 2 to August 31, providing a fantastic chance for young residents to engage in physical activity during the summer months. Participating facilities include the St. Laurent Complex in Ward 13. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Yellow Bag Program for Small Businesses Survey Launch - Open until July 25
As per Action Suite 20 of the approved Solid Waste Master Plan, staff are undertaking a review of the City’s Yellow Bag for Small Businesses Program. The City of Ottawa is reviewing waste collection services provided to small businesses to determine the future of the Yellow Bag Program following the recent and upcoming changes impacting waste and recycling collection for small businesses, as described below.
Revision to City of Ottawa Waste Funding from Commercial Properties
Under the Solid Waste Master Plan’s Long Range Financial Plan, the City of Ottawa has changed to a fully recoverable fee model that is more aligned with a utility funding model. Under this new model, commercial properties no longer pay into the solid waste services fee (i.e., waste diversion charge) on their property tax bill. With commercial properties no longer contributing to solid waste services, it’s important to ensure that future waste collection services provided to small businesses accurately reflect the costs of the services.
Provincial Blue Box Program’s Transition to Individual Producer Responsibility
With the Province of Ontario’s recycling program shifting to Individual Producer Responsibility (IPR) under the Blue Box Regulation, municipalities will no longer be responsible for the collection and processing of recyclable materials from residential locations by the end of this year. Beginning on January 1, 2026, recyclable materials from small businesses in Ottawa will no longer be co-collected with residential locations along shared collection routes, preventing cost efficiencies that have been achieved to date. The City is reviewing how these changes impact recycling collection for the Yellow Bag Program for small businesses and based on those impacts, determine any required adjustments.
Engagement with the business owners currently receiving municipal waste collection as part of the Yellow Bag Program for Small Businesses is being undertaken by City staff to understand potential opportunities and waste challenges for this program. Feedback from the business owners will be used to help inform the recommendations for the future of the Yellow Bag Program for Small Businesses.
Survey
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.
Annual Community Engagement Session on the City’s Ongoing Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) Initiatives - July 10 and 16
The Community and Social Services’ Equity Team is hosting the annual Community Engagement Sessions for the City’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) Framework, and everyone is welcome to attend! These sessions will provide an update and an opportunity for feedback on the EDIB Framework, with a focus on the community-facing priorities on the Anti-Racism Strategy and Women and Gender Equity Strategy. The sessions will be taking place in an accessible environment with panellists from various City departments to highlight their work of advancing racial and gender equity and create an open dialogue on how the City moves forward on developing the EDIB Framework.
You can register for the sessions here. The sessions are scheduled for:
Session 1 Focus: Anti-Racism Strategy
Date: July 10
Time: 10 am to noon
Location: Ben Franklin Place Chambers, 101 Centrepointe Dr, Nepean
Session 2 Focus: Women and Gender Equity Strategy
Date: July 16
Time: 1 to 3 pm
Location: Ben Franklin Place Chambers, 101 Centrepointe Dr, Nepean
Celebrating Gloucester's 175th Anniversary - July 13
The Gloucester Historical Society is celebrating the 175th anniversary of Gloucester’s incorporation as a township in 1850 – and you’re invited! This free event will be held at the Billings Estate National Historic Site (2100 Cabot Street, Ottawa) on Sunday, July 13, 2025, from 1 to 4 pm. There will be displays and entertainment, a trivia contest with prizes and, of course, cake. Entry to the Billings Museum is included. Everyone is welcome!
ByWard Market redesign consultation - feedback welcome until July 16
Residents are invited to share their thoughts on the upcoming redesign of William Street and ByWard Market Square until July 16. As the City continues to invest in the ByWard Market we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine the area and ensure its long-term success. ByWard Market’s public spaces are being redesigned to create high-quality public space that invites everyone to experience the magic of the ByWard Market. The new design will feature:
- Attractive amenities like interactive illumination, a lush tree canopy, and captivating art installations.
- More seasonal events, outdoor markets, and patios.
- A focus on safety, comfort, and walkability to prioritize the visitor experience.
Complete the online survey by July 16. Visit Engage Ottawa to learn more about the project and have your say.
Teen Staycation – free literacy and learning activities for teens – until August 30
From June 26 to August 30, Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is excited to offer a wide range of free literacy and learning activities for teens—both online and in branches. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore new interests, gain valuable skills, and connect with new friends during the summer break! This year, OPL is expanding its teen programming with a greater focus on life skills development, helping teens build confidence and practical knowledge through fun, hands-on experiences. Registration is now open! Teens can now browse through the Teen Staycation programs and sign up for the ones that spark their interest. For details, please visit collections.biblioottawalibrary.ca.
Support The Ottawa Cancer Foundation Through Lemonade Standemonium - until August 31
This summer, kids, families, businesses, and communities across Ottawa are coming together for a fun and meaningful way to support families affected by cancer—by running lemonade stands! Whether you're hosting your own stand or supporting one in your neighbourhood, you’re helping raise critical funds for the programs and services offered by The Ottawa Cancer Foundation. Individuals, schools, families and community groups are invited to set up lemonade stands to raise funds for The Ottawa Cancer Foundation, with 100 per cent of proceeds going towards free services for those affected by cancer. This initiative is a great way to bring people together, build youth leadership, and inspire compassion through a simple act. Lemonade Standemonium runs until August 31. For details, please visit support.ottawacancer.ca
Emergency Services News
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.