June 12, 2026 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
This summer, Ottawa families have more reasons than ever to get out, get active, and explore the city together, and thanks to a series of new and expanded city programs, the cost of doing so has never been lower.
Through the Play Free program, youth under 17 and accompanying adults can enjoy free drop-in swimming sessions every Saturday at pools across Ottawa. Beyond the pool, City recreation facilities are opening their gymnasium doors at no charge for a wide range of drop-in sports including badminton, basketball, table tennis, volleyball, soccer, indoor skateboarding, roller-skating, and more. For families looking to stay active together without stretching the household budget, these opportunities represent real and meaningful savings over the course of a summer.
Adding to those options, the City of Ottawa has partnered with Equip Sport, a Swiss-based company, and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, a national organization dedicated to removing barriers to sport and recreation, to launch free sports equipment lockers in parks across the city. Self-serve lockers are now available in select parks, including in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward, offering free access to basketballs, soccer balls, volleyballs, and fitness packs.
Using the smart lockers is straightforward: residents download the free Equip Sport app on their smartphones, unlock the equipment at no cost, enjoy their game, and return the gear when finished. The lockers are weatherproof, modular, and fully maintained by Equip Sport, mounted on existing park infrastructure, and positioned to ensure accessibility and safety. This initiative is proudly funded by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary, enabling the City to offer this service to residents at no charge.
Play Free and the new equipment lockers are grounded in a simple but powerful idea: every child in Ottawa deserves the chance to be active, try new things, and build confidence, regardless of their family's financial situation. Recreation is not a luxury. It is a foundation for healthy development, social connection, and community belonging. Taken together with the upcoming free transit measures, these programs mark a meaningful step forward in making life more affordable for Ottawa residents.
Getting to those recreation facilities and parks is also about to become significantly easier and more affordable. Beginning July 1, 2026, City Council will introduce free transit for anyone aged 18 and under on all weekday evenings after 5:00 p.m., and all day on weekends, holidays, and throughout the summer months of July and August. These measures will be funded through savings accumulated from reduced diesel fuel costs in the previous year, with no additional tax increase required. At just $0.75 million in the City’s $938 million transit budget, the investment is modest in dollar terms but will be transformative in its impact.
Consider what this will mean for an Ottawa family. A return transit trip for a family of four currently costs $32. Come July 1, that cost will be cut in half. For young people travelling independently, the ability to board a bus or the O-Train without a fare will provide both freedom and safety, particularly in the evening hours when the alternative may be walking home alone.
The long-term thinking behind free youth transit is equally important. By making transit accessible and attractive to young people early in life, we will be building a generation of riders who see public transit as a natural, convenient choice. Projections suggest this measure alone will generate an additional 600,000 annual trips, helping to shift Ottawa's transportation patterns in ways that benefit the entire city for years to come.
Together, free recreation, accessible sports equipment, and free transit for youth this summer represent a vision of Ottawa as a city that invests in its young people and supports families in a practical, tangible way. Take advantage of everything on offer this season, and mark July 1 on your calendar not just for Canada Day!
Rawlson King
City Councillor
Your Councillor in the Community

Pleased to have shared remarks with Board members, neighbours, volunteers, staff, and community partners at the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre's annual general meeting this week at the Rideau Community Hub.


It was a joy to attend and sponsor the Queen Mary Street Public School barbecue held this week in Overbrook! Thank you to Enbridge Gas for providing and cooking the festive after-school meal and to Ottawa Fire Station 56 for visiting with their fire truck.

Great to advocate for climate change action at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference and Trade Show in Edmonton last week with former Toronto Mayor David Miller, former Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante and former Victoria City Councillor Sharmarke Dubow.

Congratulations to Councillor Tim Tierney on his election as president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities at the organization’s annual conference and trade show in Edmonton last week.
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
ANCHOR Crisis Response Expands to Overbrook, Vanier and Downtown Ottawa
Residents in Overbrook, Vanier and downtown Ottawa experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis can now access support through ANCHOR (Alternate Neighbourhood Crisis Response), a free, confidential service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. By calling 2-1-1, residents aged 16 and older can connect with trained professionals who can provide crisis support, referrals, well-being checks, or dispatch a mobile crisis response team when appropriate. Residents can call for themselves or someone they are concerned about. Interpretation services are available in more than 200 languages. For more information, visit ottawa.ca/ANCHOR.
Looking for a Family Doctor?
A group of Ottawa nursing students, medical students, and physicians has created and regularly updates a list of primary care clinics in Ottawa that are accepting new patients. Their mission is to empower Ottawa residents—especially newcomers, underserved populations, and those without a family doctor—to access timely, appropriate primary care through education, navigation support, and community outreach. The resource also includes information on medical laboratories, diagnostic imaging services, publicly funded physiotherapy programs, and Ontario Drug Benefit programs. Visit the online directory to learn more and explore available healthcare resources in Ottawa.
Resources can be accessed here: sites.google.com/view/primary-care-clinics-in-ottawa/home
A list of clinics accepting new patients is available here (updated every 4 to 6 months): docs.google.com
Native Plant Gardening Event - June 13

Come and join the Overbrook Community Association's Green Team, to see the work they have been doing in the West Donald Street gardens. The event is on June 13 from 9 am to 12 pm at 1 Donald Street. Some free plants will be available for those who volunteer to help.
New Edinburgh Bottle Drive - June 13 & every second Saturday of each month

Green Fair Ottawa innovation and EV Showcase - June 13

CAFES Ottawa hosts a free public event, Green Fair Ottawa: Innovation and EV Showcase, taking place on Saturday, June 13 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, 200 Coventry Rd. Green Fair Ottawa is a fun, family-friendly one-day public event uniting sustainability innovators, local vendors, and Ottawa residents to explore practical solutions for sustainable living. With EV and e-bike test drives, kid-friendly activities, workshops, and food trucks amongst other things, this event is sure to be a very fun experience for all attendees.
Under the Maple Leaf: Respecting the Canadian Flag - June 17
Beechwood Cemetery invites residents to attend Under the Maple Leaf: Respecting the Canadian Flag on June 17 at 7 pm. This special ceremony honours worn and unserviceable Canadian and provincial flags through a dignified retirement process that celebrates Canada's history, service, and shared values. The event will feature a flag retirement procession, military participation, the raising of a new national flag, and remarks from distinguished guests. The ceremony will take place at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood Cemetery. For details and to register, visit beechwoodottawa.ca/under-the-maple-leaf
Beer & Bites evenings at the Vanier Sugar Shack - June 18
The Muséoparc welcomes you back for the long-awaited return of its famous Beer & Bites evenings! The concept is simple and delicious: a gourmet selection of appetizers paired with a tasting of local beers. The first event of the summer:
- When: Thursday, June 18, from 6 to 8:00 pm
- Featured Brewery: Manor Park Brewing
- Featured Chef: Phil Cameron
- Where: At the Vanier Sugar Shack
- Price: $35 + taxes per person (19+ only)
Details: museoparc.ca
Ottawa Youth Service Year Pilot Project - Applications due June 19
Applications are now open for the new Ottawa Youth Service Year, a paid eight-month program for youth aged 17 to 19. Launching in September 2026, the program will provide participants with hands-on experience through placements with local non-profit organizations, along with training, coaching, and educational opportunities. Applications will be accepted until June 19. For details, please visit volunteerottawa.ca, or click here to apply.
Wateridge Village Cultural Mosaic Festival - June 20

The Wateridge Village Community Association hosts a Cultural Mosaic Festival on June 20, from 10 am to 3 pm, at Alliance Park. Enjoy music, live performances, activities, shopping and much more.
Canada Strong Pass at Ingenium Museums
From June 19 to September 7, children and youth under 18 receive free admission and young adults aged 18 to 24 receive 50 per cent off admission at participating institutions through the Canada Strong Pass. The program includes Ottawa's Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and Canada Science and Technology Museum. Details: ingenium.ca
Fall Prevention Seminar - June 22

Ottawa Public Health and St. Columba Anglican Church in Manor Park will host a free fall prevention seminar on June 22 at 1:30 pm at St. Columba Anglican Church, 24 Sandridge Road. Open to everyone, the session will cover the health impacts of falls, why people fall, and practical tips to help prevent them. Refreshments will be provided, and the venue is wheelchair accessible.
Flamenco in Lindenlea - June 27
Lindenlea residents are welcome to enjoy a Flamenco dance performance at Lindenlea Park, 33 Rockcliffe Way, on June 27 from 3 to 4 pm. Admission is free. Non-perishable food donations are welcome in support of the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre Food Bank. In the event of rain, the event will be held at the Lindenlea Community Centre, 15 Rockcliffe Way. Details: www.lindenlea.ca
Saints Peter and Paul Greek Melkite Catholic Church Annual Family Feast - June 24 to 28
Saints Peter and Paul Greek Melkite Catholic Church, located at 1161 North River Road, will hold its annual Family Feast celebration. The event is free and will feature traditional Lebanese music, family-friendly games and a variety of food, treats and refreshments. The Church welcomes all Rideau-Rockcliffe residents and the event is open to all community members in the Ottawa-Gatineau region. Free parking and shuttle service will be available. For details, please visit Facebook.
- Wednesday, June 24 - 5 pm to 11 pm
- Thursday, June 25 - 5 pm to 11 pm
- Friday, June 26 - 5 pm to 11 pm
- Saturday, June 27- 4 pm to 11 pm
- Sunday, June 28 - 11 am to 11 pm
RCMP Sunset Ceremonies - June 25 to 28
The RCMP's Canadian Sunset Ceremonies return featuring the Musical Ride in the nation's capital, June 25, 26, 27 and 28, starting at 7 pm each day! This annual event offers Canadians and visitors a chance to see the Musical Ride at its home in Ottawa at the Musical Ride Centre RCMP Rockcliffe Stables, 1 Sandridge Road. Admission is free. Pets are not permitted. Arrive early to get a good spot and check out the RCMP and partner booths and food vendors. Details: rcmp.ca
Residency: Vanier Artist-in-Residence request for qualifications - deadline is June 26
Are you a professional artist or artist team looking to make a permanent impact? The City of Ottawa invites professional artists or artist teams to submit interest and qualifications for the opportunity to be Vanier’s artist in residence. This community-led initiative is designed to foster meaningful engagement and dialogue with the Vanier community, and the insights gained will inform the creation of a final legacy artwork(s). Deadline: June 26 at 11:59 pm For more information, please visit the Request for Qualifications webpage.
Rideau-Rockcliffe Construction Projects
St. Paul's Park Fitness Equipment Update

The installation of new fitness equipment at St. Paul's Park is now complete. Sod, topsoil and seeding have also been completed. Work recently wrapped up on the concrete base for the climbing wall. Installation of the engineered wood fibre surfacing will be scheduled for the next phase of the project. Staff are arranging for the sod to be watered more frequently given recent temperatures.
Proposed Road Safety Improvements Coming to Ward 13

The City of Ottawa is moving forward with the preliminary design of several traffic calming projects in Ward 13 through the Province's Road Safety Initiatives Fund (RSIF). This funding was provided to municipalities that previously operated Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras and is intended to support permanent road safety improvements at or near former ASE locations. The proposed measures are designed to reduce vehicle speeds, improve driver awareness, and enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users near schools, parks, and community destinations.
Proposed improvements in Ward 13 include:
St. Laurent Boulevard (southbound near Noranda Avenue – Queen Elizabeth Public School)
- Thermoplastic pavement markings and symbols
- Speed display boards
- Upgraded power source for flashing school-zone beacons
Crichton Street – between Beechwood Avenue and Stanley Avenue

- Three sets of speed cushions between Beechwood Avenue and Stanley Avenue
- One set of speed cushions on Vaughan Street between Crichton Street and MacKay Street
- Thermoplastic pavement markings and symbols
- Speed display boards (subject to approval of additional provincial funding)
Queen Mary Street (westbound near Edith Avenue – Overbrook Park)

- Speed cushions
- Thermoplastic pavement markings and symbols
- Speed display boards
Donald Street (eastbound near Barnaby Private – St. Michael School and Ottawa Technical Secondary School)

- Speed cushions
- Thermoplastic pavement markings and symbols
- Speed display boards
- Upgraded power source for flashing school-zone beacons
As part of this process, Councillor King and his office will continue to work with City staff to ensure these improvements are considered holistically and coordinated with future road renewal and infrastructure projects where possible. The Province requires all RSIF-funded projects to be completed by March 31, 2028.
Why: The City of Ottawa will be crack sealing roads as preventative maintenance aimed at extending the City's roadway network lifecycle.
When: This work is expected to start this spring or early summer. Notification will be distributed prior to the start of construction in the Cummings neighbourhood. Work will take place during the day, evening and night and will involve minor lane interruptions. Weekend work is anticipated for all locations (work will take place at multiple sites across the city) and traffic interruptions may also be experienced due to flagging operations.
Who: The City of Ottawa is in the process of retaining a contractor, to complete the work.
Traffic management: To accommodate the proposed construction, various lane reductions, alternating traffic and/or detours can be expected. Access to local businesses and private properties will be maintained throughout the construction period. Access for pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained.

Enbridge's St. Laurent Replacement Project will continue overnight utility work along Montréal Road and Brittany Drive.
When: Until June 17
Time: 10 pm to 6 am (work begins at 7 pm)
Location: Beginning approximately 30 metres south of Montréal Road and Cummings Avenue, extending west along Montréal Road, north on Brittany Drive, and west beyond the plaza at 548 Montréal Road.
Work will include hydrovac operations, excavation equipment, trucks, and utility locating activities required before installation of a new gas main.
The overnight work is being undertaken to minimize traffic disruptions during peak daytime hours. Advance notice will continue to be provided to affected residents and businesses.
Overnight Construction Notice – Marquette Avenue and Beechwood Avenue - June 18

Residents are advised that overnight construction work related to the St. Laurent Replacement Project is scheduled for the intersection of Marquette Avenue and Beechwood Avenue.
When: June 18
Time: 10 pm to 6 am (work begins at 6 pm)
Location: Marquette Avenue and Beechwood Avenue
The work will involve heavy construction equipment and support vehicles. The overnight schedule is intended to reduce impacts on daytime traffic. Advance notification will be provided to nearby residents and businesses.
Hydro Ottawa pole renewal on Donald Street and Quill Street - June 22 to July 3

Virtual information session - Proposed Development - 1052, 1060, 1064 St. Laurent Boulevard - June 23
Councillor King invites residents to attend a virtual information session regarding a development proposed for 1052, 1060, 1064 St. Laurent Boulevard on June 23 from 6:30 to 8 pm. The meeting will include a presentation on the proposal, an overview of the planning review process, and an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and share feedback directly to the applicant. If you are interested in joining the conversation, please register in advance to receive the Zoom meeting information.
New Sidewalks Proposed for Brant Street and Clarke Avenue - Public Consultation June 24; survey open until July 15
The City of Ottawa has launched the public consultation for proposed sidewalk projects on Clark Avenue and Brant Street. Residents can now review the proposed plans, download roll plans, and complete an online survey. The proposed projects include:- Brant Street (Donald Street to approximately 40 metres north of Spartan Avenue)
- Clark Avenue (Claude Street to Cummings Avenue)
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
5:30 to 7:30 pm
Drop-in format (no formal presentation)
- Phase 1 work on St. Patrick Street Bridge was completed in December 2025.
- Phase 2 work is ongoing and expected to be completed in late June/early July to start Phase 3 work.
City of Ottawa News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Transit Committee receives update on plans to address OC Transpo service reliability
OC Transpo has reported continued progress on its Customer-First Action Plan, including improvements to transit reliability, public safety, and fleet maintenance. Double-car O-Train Line 1 service resumed on June 8, while route scheduling adjustments and ongoing bus fleet upgrades are expected to improve reliability for approximately 50 per cent of riders by this fall. OC Transpo also confirmed that preparations are underway to support increased ridership associated with the federal return-to-office initiative. Details: ottawa.ca
Black Youth Court Navigation Program - June 12 and 19 - Registration now open
- June 12 Registration form
- June 19 Registration form
Location: Albion-Heatherington Recreation Centre, 1560 Heatherington Rd
Time: 6:30 to 9:30 pm
Black History in Ottawa Streets Bus Tour
Ottawa Day - June 13
Did you know that Ottawa's main area code is 613? That's why June 13 is celebrated as Ottawa Day! Residents and visitors are invited to take part in the many events happening across the city, from festivals and markets to concerts, cultural celebrations, sporting events, and family-friendly activities. Learn more, explore the interactive event map, and share your Ottawa Day experiences using #JourOttawaDay.
O-Train Lines 2 and 4 will be fully closed for maintenance on Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14, and replacement bus service will operate. Visit octranspo.com for details.
Ottawa Multicultural Week Launch - June 14

Everyone is invited to enjoy the launch of Ottawa Multicultural Week on June 14, from 2 to 5 pm, at City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West.
Turtle Egg-Laying Season
June is turtle egg-laying season. If you see a turtle on land, it is likely looking for a nesting site. Please give turtles plenty of space, keep dogs away, and avoid disturbing them. Residents who spot a turtle nest are encouraged to note the location and share details with local conservation volunteers to help protect vulnerable nests. Details: linktr.ee/TurtlesOOES
Ottawa Stops Hate Together campaign - info sessions June 16 & 17
The Equity Team is inviting the community to learn more and help shape the Ottawa Stops Hate Together initiative. Two engagement sessions will be held this summer:
- June 16, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:30 am at Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre (102 Greenview Avenue)
- June 17, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:15 pm online through Microsoft Teams
Both sessions are free, open to everyone and accessible. To learn more and to register for this engagement, please visit Engage.Ottawa.ca
Canada's Volunteer Awards - Nominations Open until June 17
Know an outstanding volunteer, community leader, organization, or social enterprise? Nominations are now open for Canada's Volunteer Awards, which recognize those making a positive impact in their communities. Submit a nomination by June 17 and help celebrate those who make a difference. Details: www.canada.ca
Upcoming cultural funding deadlines - June 17
Several City of Ottawa cultural funding programs have fast-approaching deadlines!
- Cultural Facilities Fund - Minor: June 17
- Cultural Facilities Fund - Major: June 17
If you have questions about these programs or would like support with the application process, especially if you are applying for the first time, we encourage you to join a drop-in information session or contact [email protected]. The cultural funding team hosts weekly virtual office hours every Thursday from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. These informal, bilingual sessions take place on Microsoft Teams and are open to anyone seeking guidance on cultural funding programs or the online funding portal. You can join using the meeting links found on Information Sessions, or dial 613‑319‑1080 and enter Conference ID 214 581 576.
Final property tax bill payment due June 18
The deadline to pay your final property tax bill is Thursday, June 18. Residents can pay through their financial institution (including online or telephone banking), at a City Client Service Centre, online at Ottawa.ca, by mail, or through the City's pre-authorized debit plan. To avoid late payment charges, ensure your payment is received by the due date. A penalty of 1.25 per cent is added the day after the deadline and on the first day of each month thereafter. For more information, visit Ottawa.ca/taxes.
Heritage Ottawa Walking Tours - June 18, 21 and 25
Heritage Ottawa's 2026 walking tour season is underway. Upcoming tours include A Journey Through Ottawa's Herstory on June 18, Discovering the Heritage of Lowertown West (in French) on June 21, and Britannia Village: Eclectic Architecture & Fascinating History on June 25. Advance registration and payment are required. Heritage Ottawa members receive a 60 per cent discount on tour admission. Learn more and pre-register through Heritage Ottawa.
Community Health Seminar for African, Caribbean and Black residents - June 20
A Coalition of African, Caribbean, and Canadian Organizations hosts a Health and Wellness Seminar on June 20 from 9 am to 2 pm at the Sandy Hill Community Centre. For details and tickets, please visit Eventbrite.
Pollinator Appreciation Day - June 20
Celebrate Pollinator Appreciation Day at the Fletcher Wildlife Garden on June 20 from 10 am to 2 pm. This year's theme, Start with a Tree, features family-friendly activities, expert talks, guided walks, pollinator displays, and opportunities to learn how you can support pollinators in your own community. Visitors can also purchase a tree or enter a free tree lottery. Everyone is welcome! Details: wildpollinators-pollinisateurssauvages.ca
Nominations are open for the Ottawa Famous 5 Awards - deadline is July 3
Famous 5 Ottawa will recognize women, female-identifying and gender-diverse individuals who are making a difference in our community through leadership, courage, mentorship, and trailblazing work. Four individuals and one youth (up to age 35) will be honoured as part of the 97th anniversary of the Women are Persons Case. Nominations are due by July 3 at 5 pm. To nominate yourself or someone else, visit: Famous5Ottawa.ca or email [email protected].
Emergency Services Updates
The Ottawa Police Service is reminding residents to stay alert and exercise caution around rivers, lakes, pools, and other bodies of water. If you see someone in distress or at risk near the water, call 9-1-1 immediately. Whether you're on the road, on a bike, or enjoying time on the water, the right safety equipment can make all the difference. Simple precautions can help prevent serious injuries and save lives.

























