May 16, 2025 Newsletter

A Message from Councillor King

Dear Residents:

As Chair of the Built Heritage Committee, I am pleased to share some significant news regarding our ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate Ottawa's rich and diverse history. This week, the Committee approved several important designations under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, highlighting the stories and voices of our community's past.

These designations are crucial in protecting the historic buildings that document Ottawa's art scene, women's history, Islamic growth, and francophone roots, reflecting the vibrant tapestry of our City.

I am delighted to announce the designation of the iconic ByTowne Cinema at 323-327 Rideau Street. Originally known as the Nelson Theatre, this two-storey movie house built in 1947 stands as a prime example of a post-war neighbourhood cinema. Its Moderne architectural style, featuring a rounded profile, Streamline stone cornice, and smooth brick cladding, is a testament to Ottawa's post-war cinema boom. Since 1989, the ByTowne Cinema has been a beloved venue for cult, classic, foreign, independent, and alternative films, contributing significantly to our city's cultural landscape.

It was reported in the Ottawa Citizen this week that I told the Committee that the cinema is “not just history, it’s living history that really has impacted our city over generations and, hopefully, generations to come with this new designation.”

The Committee also moved to designate three former Bell Telephone Exchange Buildings at 251 Besserer Street, 200 First Avenue, and 43 Eccles Street. These buildings, each with their unique architectural charm – Beaux-Arts for the Rideau Exchange and Edwardian Classical for the Sherwood Exchange – have direct ties to the development of telecommunications in Ottawa. Furthermore, they represent the significant role of women in the Canadian workforce, as Bell exclusively hired women as switchboard operators by 1900. These Exchanges are intrinsically linked to the City's growth in the early 20th century and the increasing demand for telephone services.

The Committee was also proud to designate the Ottawa Mosque at 251 Northwestern Avenue, the earliest purpose-built mosque in Ottawa and among the earliest in Ontario. This two-storey, brown brick mosque, constructed between 1973 and 1979, features Modernist architectural influences with traditional Islamic elements such as a dome, minaret, and prayer hall. It represents the history and growth of thee Ottawa Muslim Association and stands as a significant landmark in our city.

Finally, the Committee designated two French Catholic churches: Église Saint-François d'Assise at 1062 Wellington Street West, and Église Saint-Joseph d’Orléans at 2757 St. Joseph Boulevard. These churches are landmarks in their neighbourhoods and the city, thanks to their architectural features, large scale, and prominent locations. They highlight the enduring significance of French Catholicism in Ottawa's history.

These designations reflect the City’s commitment to preserving Ottawa's diverse heritage and ensuring these important stories are remembered for generations to come. During this current Term of Council, the City committed to ensuring that designations, as prescribed under the Ontario Heritage Act, better reflect and showcase Ottawa’s diverse history. The Committee also accepted recommendations by City staff to entertain applications by thematic grouping this Council Term. I am honoured to lead these efforts as Chair of the Built Heritage Committee.

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Your Councillor in the Community

I was pleased to attend the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) - Region 10 (Ottawa)'s 22nd annual Nursing Week breakfast this morning. The event was an opportunity to discuss health-related issues and celebrate Ottawa’s hard-working nurses during Nursing Week.

 

I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with representatives from the Kiwanis Club of Eastern Ottawa along with my east end Council colleagues, Catherine Kitts, Laura Dudas, Matt Luloff, and Tim Tierney.

 

Thank you to the Manor Park Community Association for inviting me to provide remarks during the association's annual general meeting this week.

I was pleased to join City staff and Councillors Marty Carr, Catherine Kitts, Riley Brockington, Tim Tierney, and Shawn Menard for the kick-off of the 2025 construction season this week. 

I enjoyed a local Mother’s Day Tea held by Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard at the Rockcliffe Park Community Centre last weekend! A great time was had by all!

Great turnout for the annual New Edinburgh Plant Sale in support of the Crichton Community Council last weekend!

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Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities 

New Plant Your Place! program - 6 trees left for Ward 13

The City of Ottawa’s new Plant Your Place! program makes it simple for residents to plant trees on their private residential properties. Through the City-Wide Tree Distribution stream, any Ottawa resident with space for a tree can apply to receive one at no cost. Trees are available on a first-come, first-served basis. At this time, there are 6 trees left for Ward 13 residents. Approved participants will be invited to pick up their trees at a Tree Distribution Event this spring and will receive guidance on proper planting and care. Want to learn more about eligibility, planting requirements, and available tree species? Visit envirocentre.ca/plant-your-place for full details. EnviroCentre is proud to deliver the Plant Your Place! program in partnership with the City of Ottawa. Request a Tree!

 

 

Manor Park Public School Bike Bus - Every Tuesday morning until the end of June

The Manor Park Public School Bike Bus, which was successfully piloted in April, will continue every Tuesday morning until the end of the school year in June. All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by parents or guardians. Meet at 8:05 am at the Pauline Charron cul-de-sac before heading to the school for an 8:20 am arrival. For details or to volunteer, please scan the QR Code in the poster above.

Temporary Parking Disruption at Rideau Community Hub - Until May 17

A large portion of the parking lot at The Rideau Community, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, will be paved between May 2 and 17. It will result in temporary disruptions, including limited access to certain parking areas. Please note that the building and all programs will remain fully open and accessible throughout the construction period. However, Para Transpo services may be disrupted on May 15 and 16, and those requiring accessible transportation should plan accordingly. For those unable to find parking on-site during the most affected days, please consider using the St. Laurent Complex parking lot, if available. The area is also accessible via OC Transpo, with nearby stops at St-Laurent / Guy (Stop ID: 6692) and McArthur / St-Laurent (Stop ID: 7069) — both within walking distance.

Rideau-Rockcliffe Wildlife Webinar - May 22

The City of Ottawa's new Wildlife Resource Coordinator, Dom Ferland, is on a quest to resolve and prevent human-wildlife conflicts and promote the incredible biodiversity of our city. Rideau-Rockcliffe residents are invited to meet Dom, learn about his new role and better understand how to co-exist with wildlife in our urban ward. Councillor King's Ward 13 Wildlife Webinar takes place May 22 from 6:30 to 8 pm. Please join us!  Sign up for the webinar link here: Ward13WildlifeWebinar

Blasdell Bridge closure - until May 23

The NCC's Blasdell Bridge will be closed from April 28 to May 23, 2025, to create a new multi-use pathway linking the Capital Pathway to Blasdell Avenue.

• Schedule: From April 28 to May 23, 2025
• Location: Blasdell Bridge
• Impact on pedestrians and cyclists: Please take alternate routes

Details: ncc-ccn.gc.ca

150th anniversary of the first Hurdman's Bridge in Overbrook - May 24

Overbrook is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the first Hurdman's Bridge. Everyone is welcome on May 24 starting at 1:30 pm along the National Capital Commission’s multi-use pathway just south of the Adàwe Crossing (west end of Donald Street). Enjoy an afternoon of entertainment to celebrate the bridge that built Overbrook and the launch of the commemorative kiosk. 

Odawa Traditional Powwow - May 24 & 25

The Odawa Native Friendship Centre is proud to present its annual Traditional Powwow, celebrating a milestone year - "50 Years of Odawa." Taking place on May 24 and 25, 2025, the event will be held at Odawa’s home location of 815 St. Laurent Blvd. This vibrant two-day gathering promises a powerful celebration of Indigenous culture, community, and resilience. As the longest-running Indigenous community centre in Ottawa, Odawa has been a pillar of support and cultural revitalization for five decades, serving generations of Indigenous Peoples in the region. Under this year’s theme, “50 Years of Odawa” attendees will experience the heart of Indigenous traditions from traditional dances and drumming, to storytelling, live music, and a rich variety of authentic cuisine. All are welcome to join the celebration - whether to honour ancestors, connect with community, or experience Indigenous culture in a meaningful and inclusive way. Details: Facebook

Ottawa Race Weekend road closures in Ward 13 - May 25

The Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, taking place May 24 and 25, will require road closures in New Edinburgh and Rockcliffe Park for the international marathon and half marathon routes on Sunday, May 25 from 6 am to 2 pm. The full marathon starts at City Hall at 7 am and the half marathon begins at City Hall at 9 am.

Impacted Roads and Estimated Timing

• Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway (SGEC Parkway) (Princess to Birch): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Lisgar Road (Dufferin to GEC Parkway): 6:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
  
• Princess Avenue (Sussex to Lisgar): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  
• Buena Vista Road (Minto Place to Lisgar): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  
• Coltrin Road (Acacia to Minto Place): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  
• Acacia Avenue (SGEC Parkway to Coltrin): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  
• Minto Place (Coltrin to Buena Vista): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  
• MacKay Street at Sussex Drive: 6:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (affected by Sussex Drive closure)

Traffic Considerations and Recommendations

• Ottawa Police will be on site to assist with traffic management and pedestrian crossings when feasible.
  
• Due to the volume of participants, crossing the course by vehicle may be difficult between 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
  
• Residents who need to travel during this window are encouraged to park outside the impacted area on the evening of May 24 and cross on foot the morning of the event.

Details are available here: www.runottawa.ca/torw/plan/schedule To view the route map, please visit this link.

Wateridge Village Community Safety Meeting - May 26

Councillor King, in partnership with the Ottawa Police Service and Bylaw and Regulatory Services, is hosting a community safety meeting for Wateridge Village residents on May 26, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Alliance Park at 392 Codd's Road. The rain date is June 2.

Lane closures - Columbus Avenue - May 26 to 30

A company will install services in front of 183 Columbus Avenue. This work will entail excavating across the roadway, thus having to temporarily close one lane and then the other. The work will start on the south side of Columbus Avenue, requiring the temporary closure of the eastbound lane first. They will then move to the north side of Columbus Avenue and temporarily close the westbound lane. One lane will be open at all times and there will be traffic control personnel onsite to guide vehicles through safely. This work is scheduled to start Monday, May 26 through to Friday, May 30 between 7 am and 5 pm each day until our work has been completed. Notification letters will be delivered to the surrounding residents.

Governors Walk Lecture for Dementia Awareness & Care - May 29

The Governors Walk Retirement Residence, at 150 Stanley Avenue, hosts a lecture for dementia awareness and care on May 29 at 2 pm. This lecture will be delivered by Andrew Frank, a leading medical expert in dementia research, and will provide invaluable insight into his latest research and best practices in dementia care. Admission is free. This lecture is open to the public.

 

Volunteer award nominations accepted until May 30

Every year, Volunteer Ottawa seeks nominations for the top volunteers and volunteer programs to celebrate at the VOscars Volunteer Awards Gala! Whether you’re nominating yourself, a friend, family member or an organization, your nominations are key to helping celebrate volunteerism in the Ottawa area. Nominations close May 30. Visit Volunteer Ottawa for details.

 

 

Overbrook Bike Day - May 31

 

Overbrook residents are invited to enjoy Overbrook Bike Day on May 31 from 11 am to 2 pm at the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street. Test your skills, learn to fix your bike, learn about bike safety, bike handling, traffic skills, wash your bike and enjoy treats. Hosted by staff at the Overbrook Community Centre in partnership with the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre, Safer Roads Ottawa and Ottawa Public Health. Free safety gear will be available while supplies last. Enter a draw to win a free bike. 

College Circle Community Garage Sale - May 31

The College Circle community host a community garage sale on Saturday, May 31 from 8 am to 2 pm. This is a rain or shine event. College Circle is located behind the St. Laurent Complex, off De L’Eglise. Everyone welcome!

Inspired By Learning Educational Bursary - Applications welcome until June 2

Ottawa Community Housing is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Inspired by Learning bursary program designed to support 30 post-secondary students living in Ottawa Community Housing (OCH) households. This initiative aims to remove any financial barriers and encourage students to pursue their education with more confidence. The deadline to apply is June 2. For details, please visit ochfoundation.ca.

 

 

Ward 13 information session - Draft New Zoning Bylaw - June 4

Councillor Rawlson King hosts a Ward 13-specific information session on the City's Draft New Zoning Bylaw for Rideau-Rockcliffe community associations and residents on June 4 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at 1805 Gaspé Avenue in the Studio Room. The information session will focus on proposed changes in the New Zoning Bylaw impacting corridors, hubs and neighbourhoods. There will be a presentation and map review led by Fotenn, followed by an opportunity to sit with planners from Fotenn for more detailed, one-on-one discussions. Residents are invited to register in advance, however, drop-ins that evening are welcome.

 

 

St. Patrick Street Bridge overnight work - Overnight work until June 5

Until June 5, 10 pm to 7 am, there will be saw-cutting of concrete, traffic line painting adjustments and the relocation of temporary concrete barriers on the St. Patrick Street Bridge. On the Porter's Island Bridge, jacking of the bridge will also need to be completed at night. Project updates are available at ottawa.ca/StPatrickPorterIsland

New Beginnings, Bold Moves - June 5 celebration

CWCLN is proud to introduce Violet's Voice — a new social enterprise rooted in healing, creativity, and economic empowerment for women navigating difficult life transitions. Join us on June 5th as we gather in the community to celebrate this exciting soft launch. This is more than just an event — it's the start of something powerful. Come for the connection, stay for the impact. We'll kick off Business Exchange Week by spotlighting makers, stories, and possibilities that inspire. Whether you're curious, connected, or just craving good energy — this is for you. The event takes place June 5 from 6 to 8 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, in the cafeteria. RSVP now and be part of the movement: form.jotform.com/250990866070059

 

 

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City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities

Ottawa Stops Hate Together events 

The City of Ottawa, along with its community partners, launched a new campaign on March 21, 2025 called Ottawa Stops Hate Together, to rally against hate crimes and promote inclusion. This campaign is in response to a rise in hate and bias-related incidents in the city, and aims to connect communities with the city and its history. Events are taking place as part of the campaign, and all are open to the public at no cost. Registration is now open. Each of these events honour the challenges expressed by the more than 1,200 individuals who participated in the engagement for the Anti-Racism Strategy. The tours are accessible, offered over multiple dates and have bilingual options.

• Unearthing our Roots on Ottawa Routes – Partnering with local organizations who give tours into our City’s history contributed by equity-denied groups.
  • Black History Ottawa – The History in the Streets bus tour of the downtown region. Tours run Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm from May to October. Black history in Ottawa Streets
  • National Holocaust Monument IWalk App – A remarkable way to enhance visits to the National Holocaust Monument in Ottawa. Download the app for iOS or Android. For more information and instructions visit IWalk.
  • Chinatown Walking Tour – with artist Don Kwan. Tours run on Saturdays from May to October. Don Kwan's Chinatown Walking Tour
  • Queer History of Ottawa Walking Tour by Fairy Cowboy Toursy – A tour of Ottawa’s Gay Village. Tours run on Sundays from 2 to 4 pm from in July and August. Queer History of Ottawa Tour
  • Indigenous Walking Tours – Jaime Morse hosts Indigenous Walks, a walking tour that tells visitors the Indigenous history of downtown Ottawa. Tours run on Fridays and Saturdays from May to October. Indigenous Walking Tours
• Gendered Islamophobia Book Discussion – This event will be held on June 16 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Richcraft Theatre at Shenkman Arts Centre. Registration is required. 

City of Ottawa Parks Maintenance Spring Update

Winter cleanup: Staff have removed boards, gates and safety nettings from our outdoor rinks and most safety precautions, such as bales, have been removed from our sledding hills. City staff, when not being shifted to sandbag filling duties in Constance Bay, have also been busy cleaning litter throughout our parks and along our roadsides.

Ball fields: To get our ballparks ready for the new season, City staff have been busy with inspections, necessary fencing repairs and reinstallation of any bleachers that were removed for the winter. We are also turning our irrigation systems back on and checking for leaks. The infields have been groomed and staff are also doing turf repairs and lip maintenance and hand raking where staffing is available. They are also fertilizing, overseeding, topdressing and aerating the fields. Overseeding and topdressing are our most effective methods of preventing weeds, and aerating the fields reduces compacted soil and promotes healthy turf grass for a safe and fun season. Grass cutting is also underway, and we will provide progress reports in future email updates.

Sports fields: To get our sports fields ready for use, City staff have been busy for the last three weeks. In addition to mowing, staff have been conducting inspections, removing litter and installing waste receptacles. We are cleaning paths that lead to sports fields and any parking lots attached to them. Overseeding, aeration and fertilization continue. Overseeding is an effective method of weed prevention and aeration reduces the amount of compact soil, promoting healthy turf for a safe and fun season.  

Tennis and pickleball courts: Our tennis and pickleball courts are open and ready for your crosscourt winners! City staff have been busy sweeping all the courts, installing the nets and doing any repairs discovered during inspections.

How residents can help: Most baseball fields are open, and most sports fields are opening today. Should a field remain closed due to weather or other circumstances, we ask you to stay off them for two good reasons. One is your safety; all fields are inspected for divots or trip hazards before they are opened, and closed fields have not been inspected! Second, playing on these fields in wet conditions can compact the soil, hinder water absorption, create aeration problems and force grass roots to work harder to break through the soil. The chance of root disease increases and the quality of the turf decreases. Using the fields before they are ready can lead to increased wear and tear in the goal creases making it more difficult for our crews to maintain.

Notice anything that needs our attention? Please submit an online service request by emailing or calling 3-1-1. The City's enhanced Parks Maintenance webpage will make sure this is triaged to the right personnel and is the fastest way to help staff get the job done.

 

 

Boulevard gardening update

Council has expanded the gardening permissions for residents in the City-owned boulevard next to their property. While a permit is not required, there are safety considerations and rules to follow.
What’s new:

• Owners and tenants can replace the grass in the boulevard abutting residential property with an alternative groundcover that grows to 20cm. This includes in areas around a municipal tree, fire hydrant or on the slope of a ditch.
• Residents can plant food in their boulevard garden.
• Raised garden beds, containers and plant supports are allowed in some areas (details on ottawa.ca/rightofway)

Visit ottawa.ca/rightofway to learn more about residential boulevard gardens, the rules to follow, how to identify the boulevard next to your property and special considerations for growing food in this space.

Desi Dhamaka: A Celebration of South Asian Arts & Culture - May 17

 

Saturday, May 17 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Peter A. Herrndorf Place, National Arts Centre 

Free Event – Everyone Welcome! 

Join the NAC for an unforgettable afternoon of vibrant rhythms, colourful traditions, and joyful connection at South Asian Celebration Day! Experience the rich cultural tapestry of South Asia through live artistic performances representing India, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan – including a special performance by JUNO Award-winning band Autorickshaw. Enjoy the captivating energy of a live DJ, get a beautiful henna design, and bring the little ones for a family craft activity filled with creativity and fun. Whether you're reconnecting with your roots or exploring something new, this free event is open to everyone. Come celebrate! Details: nac-cna.ca/en/event/38973

Victoria Day schedule changes - May 19

 

The City of Ottawa would like to remind residents of schedule changes and City service impacts for the Victoria Day holiday on Monday, May 19. Visit ottawa.ca for details.

 

Canadian Tulip Festival - Until May 19

The annual Canadian Tulip Festival is held in Ottawa every May at Commissioners Park, featuring more than 300,000 tulips, since 1953. The Canadian Tulip Legacy is a nationally registered charity that commemorates the sacrifice of over 7500 Canadian soldiers in the liberation of the Netherlands while celebrating the only royal personage ever born on Canadian soil, Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet, and the resulting gift of tulips from the grateful Dutch to all Canadians. Over one million tulips in Canada’s national capital region are planted and cared for by the National Capital Commission, Canada’s official gardener. This tulip tradition has lasted since the end of the Second World War and has grown into the largest public tulip display on the planet. The Canadian Tulip Festival presents this stunning floral showcase to the world, inviting guests from across the globe to experience Canada’s Capital every spring. For the full schedule of events, please visit tulipfestival.ca.

 

 

The official start of spring peak leaf and yard waste season - starting May 20

It’s officially peak leaf and yard waste season. Twice a year, in the fall and spring, waste collection operators have until 8 pm to pick up leaf and yard waste to accommodate the increased volumes of yard waste. Green, black & blue bins and garbage will continue to be picked up as usual between 7 am and 6 pm. Did you know setting out your leaf and yard waste separate from your green bin saves money because it can be composted at the Barnsdale leaf and yard composting pad at the Trail Waste Facility Landfill? Setting leaf and yard waste out separately will be required in 2026, as part of the 2026 Residential Curbside Collection Contract. To learn more about our green bin program and leaf and yard waste, visit: Ottawa.ca/greenbin.

Ottawa Riverkeeper Gala - May 21

The watershed’s best party is back! This year's Riverkeeper Gala, presented by Insurance Bureau of Canada, will be held on May 21 at the stunningly transformed Jacques Cartier Park. This is the National Capital Region’s premier fundraising event to support a clean and healthy river, hosted by Ottawa Riverkeeper. Join the party and enjoy all the highlights, including excellent networking opportunities, special musical performances from Big Smoke Brass Band, fine cuisine from Thyme & Again and Whalesbone, premium beverages, spectacular auction items from weekend getaways to culinary experiences and a killer dance floor. Get your tickets today and celebrate the river that you love!

Possible postal disruption may impact City paper billing, invoicing and notifications - as early as May 22

With postal service disruptions possibly happening as early as May 22, it could impact the delivery of City paper billing, invoices and other notifications – including water utility bills, property tax bills, invoices and traffic-related infractions. Contingency options are available for residents and businesses. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.

 

Volunteer Expo - May 22

The Volunteer Expo is a twice-yearly in-person event — it’s like a job fair, but for volunteering! Dozens of organizations are represented at each event and attendance is free. Simply show up during the Expo to talk to organizations face-to-face about their open volunteer positions and how you can get involved. This event is for people who are seeking a volunteer position. There will not be any volunteering activities happening live at the Volunteer Expo. We recommend attending with an open mind and being ready to talk to organizations whose work interests you. Learn more: volunteerottawa.ca/events/calendar/expo

Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time: From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Location: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean

Jack's Gala - May 24

“Jack’s Gala: Reaching for the Stars” is a unique fundraising event that will step into an evening of celestial elegance on May 24 from 5:30 pm to 1 am at The Brookstreet Hotel. Enjoy a night out for an exquisite dining experience and captivating entertainment, all in support of finding a cure for Jack! Together, let us be inspired and reach for the stars! The evening's emcee will be Derick Fage, Marc Garneau and Ryan Anderson will be guest speaking, Stuntman Stu will serve as Live Auctioneer and Tyler Kealey will perform as the musical guest for the special event. For more information on Jack's story, including how you can help or to purchase tickets, please visit spg4curefundraiser.wixsite.com/fundraising-event.

AccessAbility Day & Resource Fair - May 29 (Register by May 23)

Everyone is welcome to join us in person on Thursday, May 29 for the 22^nd annual AccessAbility Day event at City Hall. The theme this year is Reflecting on history: Building an accessible future together. This celebration is part of National AccessAbility Week, May 25 to 31. Visit the City's website for more information about the event. 

Opening ceremony

• Location: Andrew S. Haydon Hall (Council Chambers), ground floor, City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West
• Time: 10 am to 12:15 pm
• RSVP: Registration required; please use the AccessAbility day registration form. Registration is open until Friday, May 23.

Resource fair

• Location: Jean Pigott Place, ground floor, City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West
• Time: 9:30 am to 2:30 pm
• RSVP: None required

The resource fair features staff sharing information on City of Ottawa programs, services and facilities. Attendees are invited to offer informal feedback and consultation on the accessibility of City services, programs and facilities.

Release of Draft 2 of the New Zoning Bylaw - Consultations & Youth Engagement opportunities - May 29, June 2 & 3

The City of Ottawa has released Draft 2 of the new Zoning By-law, a document that will shape the future of our city's development. This updated draft, including detailed zoning provisions and 16 supporting documents, is now available for review on the City's meeting agenda webpage.
A Joint Planning and Housing and Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee meeting will be held on Monday, March 31, where Councillors will consider the updated Draft 2 provisions, including potential options for several key policy issues:

• Minimum parking rates for Villages
• Maximum building height in N1 and N2 – Neighbourhood Zones
• Conversion of the R4 – Residential Zone to N4 – Neighbourhood Zone
• Building height transition framework
• Communal parking lot permissions in Neighbourhood (N1-N6) Zones

Join City staff for Public Engagement Events:

• Staff hope you will join them June 2, from 6:30 to 8 pm at an In-Person Open House at Ben Franklin Place, 101 Centrepointe Drive.
• They will also be hosting two virtual citywide open houses on
  • May 29, from 6 to 8 pm, and
  • June 3, from 6 to 8 pm.
  • Registration for the virtual Open Houses was scheduled to open May 15.

For more details on the project, please visit the Engage Ottawa. If you have any questions or comments, please contact the New Zoning By-law project team at [email protected] or using the public comment form. The final version of the new Zoning By-law, Draft 3, will be presented later this year for Council approval.

 

 

On The Road 4 Mental Health fundraising and awareness walk - May 30 & 31

Greg McPherson, Founder of On the Road 4 Mental Health, will be walking 100-plus kilometres through all 24 wards in the City of Ottawa in 24 hours May 30 and 31, finishing in downtown Ottawa with speakers who will be addressing the mental health and toxic drug crisis. The walk is to raise awareness about the crisis and to bring the message to every ward that this is not a “downtown problem” but rather a crisis that affects people right across the city! The walk will once again be used to raise funds for Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa. For details and to donate, please visit otr4mentalhealth.com.

New on-street parking permit registration system launches in June

 

Beginning in June 2025, the City is improving the process of renewing or applying for on-street parking permits through the launch of a new online system that will streamline operations and be more convenient for the user. This new system will be accessible from MyServiceOttawa, a one-stop shop service where you can manage things like water billing, waste collection needs and now, select on-street parking permits. Rather than needing to submit a new application each time your permit is set to expire, certain permits like monthly on-street residential passes will be eligible for automatic renewals. The system will store the necessary information should you ever need another parking permit, enhancing customer experience and service delivery. It covers the following parking permits:

• Residential
• Temporary consideration
• Small business ID card
• Guest
• Daycare
• Visitor
• Special events – including funerals
• Volunteer
• Healthcare
• Musician and artist loading
• Replacement

For more information, please visit ottawa.ca.

Dream Big. Change The World: A Transformative Leadership Event - June 1

Join us on Sunday, June 1 at 2:00 pm at the Mosaic Convention Centre, 2465 St. Laurent Boulevard, for an unforgettable afternoon where legacy, leadership, and community come together. This is a transformative leadership event that will inspire hope for our future that supports four powerful organizations—one international and three local—that are changing lives through education, leadership, cultural preservation, and empowerment. All profits from the event will support participating non-profits. For details and tickets, please visit Eventbrite. Dream Big. Change The World! is all about inspiring and empowering individuals to step into their leadership and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Get ready to be motivated, empowered, and equipped with the tools you need to make a difference. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to dream big and have a way forward to do your part—big or small—to change the world.

 

Doors Open Ottawa - June 7 & 8

Get ready to explore the hidden gems of Canada's capital as we celebrate the 23rd anniversary of this incredible event on June 7 and 8 from 10 am to 4 pm. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Doors Open Ottawa offers a unique opportunity to peek behind the doors of over 100 significant buildings across the city, many of which are usually closed to the public or charge admission. From embassies and breweries to churches and museums, you'll discover the rich history, culture and stunning architecture that make Ottawa so special. Imagine wandering through a Victorian jail-turned-hostel, or exploring a 1920s garage that's now a bustling community theatre. With a mix of in-person and virtual tours, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, mark your calendars, grab your friends and family, and join us for a weekend of fun, discovery and adventure. The full list of participating buildings is now available. Visit ottawa.ca/doorsopen for more details.

 

Emergency Services News

You’re invited to the Safe Boating Bash at Britannia Park! - May 17

Emergency services are hosting a Safe Boating Bash to highlight Safe Boating Awareness Week which runs May 17 to 23.

• Date: Saturday, May 17
• Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Location: Britannia Park

Attendees will be treated to safe boating information, demonstrations of lifesaving equipment, boats, games and popsicles! Details: ottawapolice.ca

Ottawa Police and partners conducting RIDE checks across the city during Road Safety Week

As part of Canada Road Safety Week (May 13–19, 2025), the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is joining forces with regional partners to conduct Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) spot checks across the Ottawa area. On Friday night, officers from OPS, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and Military Police, along with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Ottawa and Safer Roads Ottawa, will be out in full force to ensure drivers are sober and making responsible choices behind the wheel. Drivers can expect to see an increased police presence throughout the city, particularly during evenings and overnight hours. RIDE programs not only target impaired drivers but also serve as a reminder that police are actively monitoring all road safety infractions, including speeding, distracted driving, and failure to wear seatbelts. To learn more about Canada Road Safety Week and the importance of driving sober, visit: National Road Safety Week - May 13-19.