June 19, 2026 Newsletter

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June 19, 2026 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.

A Message from Councillor King

Dear Residents:  

Ottawa is no stranger to extreme weather. From the 2022 Derecho that knocked out power for days to the heat waves, flooding, and ice storms that have become more frequent in recent years, our city has learned hard lessons about what happens when disaster strikes, especially for our most vulnerable residents. I'm pleased to share two pieces of good news this month that build directly on work I've been advocating for at City Hall: a new neighbourhood preparedness grant program, and real progress on emergency food security.

This week, the Environment and Climate Change Committee and the Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services Committee approved a new three-year pilot: the Extreme Weather Preparedness Grant Program. This initiative will invest $1 million over three years, providing up to $50,000 annually to local non-profits, community associations, and other neighbourhood-level organizations.

The goal is simple but important: help communities prepare before disaster hits, not just respond after. Funding can support the creation of community emergency plans, volunteer training, and improved coordination and public awareness. It can also help neighbourhoods purchase and share essential equipment, including mobile generators, power stations, temporary shelters, cooling and warming solutions, radios, and emergency kits.

This program responds directly to a gap identified through community feedback: fewer than one-third of survey respondents reported having a community emergency plan in place. By investing in neighbourhood-level capacity, we can help residents respond faster, support each other locally, and reduce pressure on first responders and social services during a crisis.

This builds on another priority I've championed: ensuring vulnerable households don't lose their food security in a crisis. Many of us remember the aftermath of the 2022 Derecho, when families across Ottawa went days without power. For households already struggling to afford groceries, a spoiled refrigerator wasn't just an inconvenience, it was a financial blow many couldn't absorb.

That's why I brought forward a Direction to Staff during the 2026 budget process, asking the City to explore a dedicated emergency food security reserve through the Office of Emergency Management. I'm glad to report that staff have followed through.

Since the Derecho, the City has built a strong working relationship with food providers across Ottawa, which has evolved into a formal Emergency Food Security Task Force, chaired by the Ottawa Food Bank. Over the past year, staff have worked with the Task Force and a consultant to develop a comprehensive emergency food security response plan, with a particular focus on equity-deserving communities and rapid response when emergencies occur.

Just as importantly, the City’s Finance Department has developed a cost recovery model so that social service providers delivering emergency food support can be reimbursed consistently, through a dedicated emergency cost centre. A service level agreement with the Task Force is now being finalized to formalize these arrangements. While no hard funding cap has been set, City staff anticipate that roughly $1 million is a reasonable planning figure, reflecting the scale of spending during the Derecho, adjusted for inflation, and subject to periodic review.

Taken together, these two initiatives reflect a broader shift in how Ottawa approaches emergency planning: less reactive, more proactive, and built on partnerships with the community organizations that are often first on the ground when disaster strikes. Whether it's a neighbourhood association coordinating a cooling centre during a heat wave or the Ottawa Food Bank ensuring no family goes without groceries after a power outage, these investments recognize that resilience is built locally, long before the next storm arrives.

I'll continue to keep you updated as both initiatives move forward. As always, if you have questions or want to get involved in neighbourhood preparedness efforts, please don't hesitate to reach out to my office.

Rawlson King 
City Councillor

 

Your Councillor in the Community

 

Great to see Indigenous entrepreneur Natasha Commanda receive a 2026 Top Forty Under 40 award from the Ottawa Board of Trade and the Ottawa Business Journal this week. This recognition is given to young business and community leaders across the region.

 

 

Had lots of fun at the Ottawa Community Housing Thomson community this week at the tenant summer BBQ and Canada Day celebration!

 

 

It was great to join civic leaders, cultural partners, business owners, community members, and amazing artists like Mi’kmaq artist Jordan Bennett at the launch of Ottawa’s new downtown arts, culture and entertainment district this week in the ByWard Market.

 

I joined Ottawa-Vanier-Gloucester MP Mona Fortier last weekend to celebrate the grand opening of MyLook Vision Care, a new family-owned optical practice in Manor Park.

 

 

It was great to attend and speak at the Leading Ladies Canada Multiculturalism Day event last weekend with Councillor Marty Carr.

 

Amazing to address and attend the World Multicultural Festival at City Hall last weekend with Deputy Mayor Wilson Lo who proclaimed Ottawa Multiculturalism Week, along with Councillor Tim Tierney.

 

Last weekend, the Ottawa Humane Society launched its compassion campaign, a $15-million initiative, to build a non-profit community veterinary clinic in Vanier! Donate online at ottawahumane.ca/donate-fundraise/compassion-campaign



Thank you to the Overbrook Community Association for cleaning up invasive species and hosting a native plant gardening event on Donald Street at the Adàwe Crossing last weekend!

 

I was pleased to drop by the Green Fair Ottawa: Innovation + EV Showcase at the Ottawa Conference & Events Centre in Overbrook last weekend. The event featured workshops, an outdoor fair, an indoor exhibition and an EV and e-bike showcase with test drives!

 

Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities  

Seeking African, Caribbean and Black Women (18+) in Ottawa Diagnosed with Cancer research study

The Cancer While Black Study Team, in partnership with the African, Caribbean & Black Wellness Resource Centre and the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, is seeking African, Caribbean, and Black women living in Ottawa to participate in a research study exploring cancer care experiences within our communities.
Eligible participants must:
  • Identify as African, Caribbean, or Black
  • Be a woman
  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Live in Ottawa
  • Have received a diagnosis of breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers.
Participation includes:
  • A 60-minute one-on-one discussion about cancer care experiences
  • The option to bring a friend, family member, or support person
  • A $50 gift card in appreciation of their time
The experiences and perspectives of African, Caribbean, and Black women are critical to improving cancer care services and outcomes. Findings from this study will help identify barriers, gaps, and opportunities to create more equitable and culturally responsive cancer care.
For more information or to sign up, please contact:
Cancer While Black Study Team
📧 [email protected]
📞 613-737-8899, ext. 73920
https://ohri.ca/en/find-researcher/jpresseau/cancerwhileblack

 

 

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. 

 

 

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.

 

 

Spies in the Cemetery – Call to Arms: The Fenian Threat - June 23

 

How close did foreign conflict come to Canadian soil? Join former CSIS senior strategic analyst Phil Gurski at Beechwood Cemetery on June 23 at 6:30 pm for an engaging presentation on the Fenian raids of the 1860s and their impact on Canada's early security and nation-building. Drawing from his latest book, Gurski will explore one of the country's most overlooked historical threats. Proceeds support the CSIS National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood. Admission is $40. Details and tickets: beechwoodottawa.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

 

National Military Cemetery 25th Anniversary Ceremony - June 25

Join the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation and the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Forces on June 25 at 10:30 am as they celebrate 25 years of honouring Canada's military service members. The commemorative ceremony will recognize the history, legacy, and significance of this national place of remembrance. A complimentary reception will follow, along with a special auction featuring artwork created by Veterans from Perley Health. Registration is not required. Details: beechwoodottawa.ca

 

 

Explore Ottawa's National Cemetery: Free Walking Tours at Beechwood - until mid-October

Western Tour of Beechwood Cemetery - Beechwood Ottawa

Beechwood Cemetery has announced a new season of free, volunteer-led historical walking tours. Participants can choose from Eastern or Western routes, each offering fascinating stories about prominent Canadians, military heroes, local history, and the evolution of Beechwood as Canada's National Cemetery. Tours are approximately 90 minutes long, wheelchair accessible, and take place rain or shine. Registration is required, and space is limited. Comfortable footwear, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Details: beechwoodottawa.ca

 

 

Environmental Workshop survey for Ward 13 residents - open until June 25

A small group of New Edinburgh community members has an interest in hosting a series of information workshops in New Edinburgh with a focus on environmental and related issues. To help them determine the most useful and appropriate topics of interest to you, please complete this short survey. The New Edinburgh Community Alliance (NECA) welcomes input from across the ward, and hopes residents will attend future workshops. The survey will be open until June 25. 

 

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.

 

 

Community Coffee Day - June 26

The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre and incubator13 host a Community Coffee Day on June 26 from 2 to 3 pm at the Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard in Room 124. Enjoy coffee, tea, snacks and more at no cost.

 

 

Flamenco in Lindenlea - June 27

Lindenlea and area 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

 

 

Repair Cafe - June 27

Let’s keep usable items out of the landfill. The Repair Fair is back June 27 from 10 am to 2 pm at Heartwood House, 404 McArthur Avenue.

  • Textile mending area - free minor repairs by skilled menders
  • Sewing machine repair - free troubleshooting and tune-ups
  • Fabric sale - donated textiles and unique finds
  • Thrift sale - including OC Transpo Lost & Found items

Drop in and repair, reuse, repeat. Visit Ottawa.ca/WasteReduction for more info!

 

 

Join the TD Summer Reading Club at the Ottawa Public Library - June 29 to August 22

TD Summer Reading Club is back this year with the exciting theme Dive In! From June 29 to August 22, children aged 4 to 12 can explore fun, water-themed learning activities—both online and in branches. Registration is now open. Explore the program and register your children for activities that will engage, inspire and spark their curiosity! 
 
Teen Staycation: A Summer of Skills, Fun, and Growth: Teens aged 13 and up can look forward to a fun and enriching summer at OPL. Teen Staycation offers a variety of creative and educational opportunities, both online and in-branch, that helps teens develop valuable skills, discover new interests, and thrive. Explore our summer programming for teens! 

 

 

A Company of Fools presents A Midsummer Night's Dream - June 29 to August 15

Pack your picnic blankets and prepare to sail away as a Company of Fools  brings you to the shores of the Greek islands! This year the Fools are setting Shakespeare’s most famous comedy against a backdrop inspired by seaside revelry, moonlit dances, and the toe tapping energy of your favourite 70’s disco (you may feel an inexplicable urge to clap along, and we encourage you to follow that feeling!). A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a tale of love, magic, and mischief.

Opening night takes place in Strathcona Park on June 29 from 7 to 8:30 pm.

Shows continue at parks across Ottawa including in and near Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward:

  • Strathcona on July 6 at 7 pm
  • Beechwood Cemetery on July 13 at 7 pm
  • Strathcona Park on July 20 at 7 pm
  • Nault Park on July 23 at 7 pm
  • Strathcona Park on July 27 at 7 pm
  • Strathcona Park on August 3 at 7 pm
  • Strathcona Park on August 10 at 7 pm
  • Stanley Park/New Edinburgh Park on August 14 at 7 pm

For the full schedule and more details, please visit www.fools.ca/a-midsummer-nights-dream-2026

 

 

Canada Day Community BBQ at the ACB Centre - July 1

The African, Caribbean and Black Wellness Resource Centre hosts a family-friendly celebration bringing together residents of all ages for an afternoon of community, culture, and connection. Guests will enjoy music, games, prizes, and face painting for children in a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates both Canada Day and the diversity of our community. The event takes place on July 1 from 12 to 4 pm at 610 Donald Street.

 

 

Canada Day pancake breakfast in Lindenlea - July 1

Lindenlea and area residents are invited to enjoy a Canada Day pancake breakfast on July 1 from 9 am to 11 am at the Lindenlea Community Centre, 15 Rockcliffe Way. Tickets are $6 per person or $15 per family and are available at the door.

 

 

Canada Day Festivities at the Eastview Legion Branch - July 1

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The Royal Canadian Legion Eastview Legion Branch hosts Canada Day celebrations under the big tent on July 1 from 12 to 10 pm at 294 Cyr Avenue. The festivities will include barbecued burgers and hot dogs for affordable prices, live music by Groovin Unison Band & Kameleon, refreshments, fun and games, prizes and gifts. 

 

 

2026 VOscars Nominations now open! - until July 15

Nominate volunteers and organizations who have made a significant impact in your community for Volunteer Ottawa's 2026 VOscars Volunteer Awards. The 2026 VOscars Volunteer Awards celebrate the dedication and contributions of volunteers across Ottawa, and we encourage you to recognize the individuals and organizations who embody the spirit of service and compassion. You can find the nomination form here: VOscars Nomination Form.  Nominations are open for all award categories including Outstanding Youth, Outstanding Older Adult, Mayor’s Award for Volunteer Spirit, Leadership in Skilled Volunteering, Leadership in Corporate Volunteerism, Pathways to Possibilities and Outstanding Volunteer Program. To learn earn more about each award, visit VOscars Award Information. The deadline to submit nominations is July 15.  

 

 

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

 

Rideau-Rockcliffe Construction Projects

St. Paul's Park Fitness Equipment Update

 

Work continues on the fitness equipment station at St. Paul's Park. A new bench was installed earlier this week and the wood fibre base will be installed next week, pending the weather. Following a final inspection, the construction fencing will be removed and the top soil and seed along the pathway connection will be topped up. 

 

Overnight Construction Notice – Montréal Road and Brittany Drive Area - ongoing

Enbridge's St. Laurent Replacement Project will continue overnight utility work along Montréal Road and Brittany Drive.
When: Ongoing
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 contact: Mitchell Moses 613-978-2658


Hydro Ottawa pole renewal on Donald Street and Quill Street - June 22 to July 3
Hydro Ottawa will be replacing one hydro pole on Quill Street and four on Donald Street between Quill Street and Edith Avenue from June 22 to July 3. The pole holes will be excavated using hydrovac equipment.



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)
Residents are encouraged to share their feedback through the project website and survey.
Open House
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
5:30 to 7:30 pm
Drop-in format (no formal presentation)
Residents can also provide feedback through an online survey, which will remain open until July 15. For more information and to participate, visit Engage Ottawa.

 

St. Patrick Street Bridge construction update - Phase 3 beginning late June/early July
The City of Ottawa started the construction for the renewal of the St. Patrick Street Bridge and the Porter’s Island Bridge in mid-December 2024. 
Why: The existing bridge structures require a major rehabilitation to meet the current code requirements and extend their service lives.
What: The scope of work will include: to complete a life-cycle renewal of the St. Patrick Street Bridge and Porter’s Island Bridge to extend their service lives; and to carry out active transportation modifications on the St Patrick Street Bridge and approaches for a designated unidirectional cycling facility along both sides of St. Patrick Street, and integration of dedicated cycling connections to adjacent routes.
  • 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.
Work on Porters Island Bridge has been substantially completed, and the bridge is fully opened.
When: Beginning in late June / early July Phase 3 work on St. Patrick Street Bridge will begin.
Where: The project limits are the St. Patrick Street Bridge and approaches between the Crichton Street/Vanier Parkway intersection and 50 m west of Lower Charlotte Street; and Porter’s Island Bridge and its approaches located on Island Lodge Road.
Traffic Impacts: As part of this work, the construction zone will be shifted to the middle portion of the St Patrick Street Bridge. Two traffic lanes per direction will be provided on the outer edges of the bridge. The right turn to Vanier Parkway will still be permitted.
Pedestrian and Cycling Access: The two newly built sidewalks on each side of the bridge will serve as temporary multi-use pathways to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists.
Details: ottawa.ca/StPatrickPorterIsland

 

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.

 

Crack sealing - Cummings Avenue - spring or early summer
As part of the City of Ottawa’s annual infrastructure maintenance program, crack sealing is scheduled to take place along Cummings Avenue from Wilson Street to Thibeault Street this construction season. For more information about road renewal, please visit ottawa.ca/constructionmap.
What: The contractor will be filling cracks within the roadway. It consists of routing and filling the crack with a sealant to reduce the infiltration of water into the pavement structure.
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.
On-street parking and local access: During construction, on-street parking may be restricted. Local access will be maintained for residents, businesses, and emergency vehicles. Should vehicle access to your property be temporarily unavailable, the contractor will provide 24-hour notice and provide a temporary On-Street Parking Permit which allows on-street parking within two blocks of your residence at an alternate legal location. Residents with electric vehicles should arrange alternative charging, as placing extension cords across the right of way is not permitted. For concerns related to deliveries or accessibility, please contact the project manager listed below.
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.

City of Ottawa News, Events and Engagement Opportunities 

Stay Safe During Extreme Heat

Summer heat can be enjoyable, but extreme heat can pose serious health risks. Watch for signs of heat-related illness, including swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and worsening of existing health conditions. Those at greatest risk include older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, people with chronic illnesses, those who work or exercise outdoors, individuals without air conditioning, and people experiencing homelessness. Details: www.ottawapublichealth.ca

During periods of extreme heat:

If a power outage occurs during extreme heat, keep blinds and curtains closed, use battery-powered fans if available, avoid using heat-generating appliances, and spend time in the coolest area of your home or in an air-conditioned public space. To help keep food safe, avoid opening your refrigerator or freezer unnecessarily.

 

Black History in Ottawa Streets Bus Tour
Come learn about Canada's rich Black History through landmarks in Ottawa. Black History Ottawa hosts guided tours by bus, visiting approximately 25 locations connected to Black history in Ottawa. Tours operate every Wednesday and Saturday through the summer, with free public tours on Wednesdays and paid tours on Saturdays. Registration is required for all tours. Departure is at 11:30 am. For details and to register, please visit Eventbrite.

 

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

 

 

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

 

Heritage Ottawa Walking Tours - June 21 and 25

Heritage Ottawa's 2026 walking tour season is underway. Upcoming tours include 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.

 

 

OC Transpo Summer Service Changes - June 28

OC Transpo adjusts schedules four times a year seasonally. Here are some highlights of the summer service adjustments, starting June 28:

  • Customer-First Action Plan schedule changes
  • Line 4 weekend frequency changes
  • Seasonal schedule changes
  • Special service to the museums and the beach is back!
  • Special service for major events

For details, please visit www.octranspo.com.

 

 

National Canada Day celebrations in Ottawa - July 1

The capital will be livelier than ever on Canada Day with performances, fireworks and an electric atmosphere. For details about the national noon ceremony, national evening show and the Tim Hortons Canada fireworks, please visit www.canada.ca.

 

 

Knights of Columbus Canada Day Barbecue- July 1

The Knights of Columbus, Council 13781, host their annual Canada Day Barbecue on July 1 from 11 am to 5 pm at Notre Dame Cathedral, 385 Sussex Drive, featuring hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, drinks and more. Everyone welcome. 

 

 

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].

 

 

Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre Summer Arts Camp

The Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre is excited to launch its very first Summer Arts Camp! This very first Arts Camp will offer young people ages 8-11 a fun, creative, and engaging week of visual arts, drama, music, movement, outdoor activities, and attending live performances facilitated and presented by professional artists. A limited number of subsidized/discounted registration spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis. The camp will be held July 13 to 17 or 20 to 24 at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 290 Lisgar Street. Registrations are now welcome. Spaces are limited. Camp Details and Registration: carleton.ca/cdcc/artscamp/

 

 

Healthy Greenspaces: Community Action on Invasive Plants - Survey open until July 20

 

The City is developing a community-led invasive plant program to help residents and community groups tackle invasive plant species growing in City greenspaces. From now until Monday, July 20, you can share your input via an Engage Ottawa survey on the tools, knowledge and supports you or your community group would need to help protect green spaces in your community.

 

 

Emergency Services Updates

Focused downtown safety initiative takes place in ByWard Market, Rideau corridor and Sandy Hill
Image
As part of the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Downtown Core Safety Plan, officers conducted a focused safety initiative on June 12 and 13 in the ByWard Market, Rideau Street corridor, and Sandy Hill neighbourhood. Led by the CORE Team, the initiative focused on enhancing community safety through visible police presence, proactive enforcement, and engagement with residents, businesses, visitors, and vulnerable individuals in the downtown core. The Downtown Core Safety Plan is in effect from May 1 through September 30 and aims to improve community safety, address concerns related to social disorder, and support residents’ and visitors’ perception of safety through enforcement, engagement, and partnership-based responses. For details, please visit ottawapolice.ca.


One Ottawa Celebration to welcome new Canadians and celebrate community connection - June 24

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Diversity Resource and Relations Unit, in partnership with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Ottawa Local Immigration Partnership’s Welcoming Ottawa Week, is proud to present the One Ottawa Celebration on Wednesday, June 24. Formerly known as the Diversity Celebration, One Ottawa brings together residents, community organizations, cultural groups, youth, artists, businesses, and public sector partners to celebrate the diversity, resilience, and spirit that shape Ottawa. This year’s event will begin with a special citizenship swearing-in ceremony, where 15 families from around the world will become Canadian citizens. Hosted in partnership with IRCC, the ceremony marks a significant milestone for new Canadians and reflects Ottawa’s commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive city. Following the ceremony, residents are invited to attend the One Ottawa Celebration at 474 Elgin Street from 3 to 6:45 pm. The celebration will feature cultural performances, live entertainment, community and cultural booths, local vendors, youth and family activities, food experiences, and opportunities for meaningful engagement between residents, organizations, institutions, and the Ottawa Police Service.

Event Details

  • Citizenship Swearing-In Ceremony 1 to 3 pm, Ottawa Police Association 141 Catherine Street
  • One Ottawa Celebration 3 to 6:45 pm, 474 Elgin Street

The One Ottawa Celebration is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit ottawapolice.ca/OneOttawa.

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