November 28, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Your Councillor in the Community
Wonderful to join Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard this week at the groundbreaking of a new affordable housing project on Queen Mary Street in Overbrook!
It was an honour to see dedicated leaders Patrick Bondo and Kenneth Campbell both receive the Order of Ottawa this week at City Hall!
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Construction on Highway 417 will close both westbound on-ramps from Vanier Parkway - Nov. 28 to Dec. 1
Construction work to repair a watermain valve located on Highway 417 will cause lane reductions on the highway and will close both westbound on-ramps from the Vanier Parkway. The work will take place from Friday, November 28 at 9:30 pm until Monday, December 1 at 6 am. Details: ottawa.ca
Winter Operations Update for this weekend
Periods of light snow are forecasted to begin Saturday night and will continue overnight into Sunday, with 5 to 10 centimetres expected by late Sunday afternoon. Slippery conditions are expected, and residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all our transportation networks. The Roads and Parking services team is ready to respond! Once accumulation begins, crews will be working on treating sidewalks, roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Parks Maintenance will also be out clearing emergency service stations, libraries and community centers as well as some City facility parking lots. As it is still early in the season, we are asking for your patience as operations will take longer than normal. Our operators are settling into their newly assigned routes, adapting to the conditions of the transportation network while remaining mindful that the ground is still soft and taking care to avoid damaging lawns. Please be patient as our crews navigate these conditions. Full update: ottawa.ca/winter
Outdoor rink volunteers urgently needed for Dr. John Hopps Park in Carson Grove
Volunteers are urgently needed to maintain the Dr. John Hopps Park outdoor rink at 300 Den Haag Drive this coming winter. One person is needed to lead the puddle rink maintenance, however, several people are welcome to help maintain the ice. Prior experience is not required. City staff provide a training session, manual and videos from previous years. Staff provide guidance on rink maintenance operations. Those interested are invited to connect with City staff by emailing [email protected] or calling 613-580-2590.
Outdoor rink volunteers urgently needed for Presland Park in Overbrook
Volunteers are urgently needed to maintain the Presland Park outdoor rink in Overbrook this coming winter. One person is needed to lead the puddle rink maintenance, however, several people are welcome to help maintain the ice. Prior experience is not required. City staff provide a training session, manual and videos from previous years. Staff provide guidance on rink maintenance operations. Those interested are invited to connect with City staff by emailing [email protected] or calling 613-580-2590.
Linden House Theatre presents Hay Fever - until Nov. 30
Linden House Theatre presents Hay Fever, a classic comedy from the uproarious days of the 1920s, until Nov. 30 at Elmwood School, 261 Buena Vista Road. For details and tickets, please visit www.lindenhousetheatre.ca
Ottawa Family Cinema presents Lilo & Stitch in 3D - Nov. 29
Enjoy Disney's Lilo & Stitch in 3D at Ottawa Family Cinema, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, on Nov. 29 at 2 pm. A lonely Hawaiian girl befriends a runaway alien, helping to mend her fragmented family. Tickets on sale now at familycinema.ca or at the door.
New Edinburgh Holiday Lights Gathering - Nov. 29
New Edinburgh residents are invited to warm up for the holiday season at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Avenue! The Crichton Community Council will be welcoming the community at the annual Holiday Lights Gathering on Saturday, November 29 from 4 to 7 pm. For event details, please visit www.newedinburgh.ca.
Book Launch for the History of New Edinburgh - Nov. 29
Community writer and well known historian Janet Uren will be holding a book launch on Saturday, November 29 at 2 pm at Elmwood School, 261 Buena Vista Road. Her book, "The Villagers" is about the history of New Edinburgh and the families who settled there and many of their descendants who are still in the area. Everyone welcome!
Free Festive Breakfast - Nov. 29
Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard and Rideau-Vanier Coun. Stéphanie Plante host a festive breakfast on Nov. 29, from 10 am to 12 pm, at Centre Pauline-Charron, 164 Jeanne Mance St., in Vanier. Everyone is welcome to enjoy freshly made pancakes, real maple syrup, and a special visit from Santa Claus!
Cost: Free
Requirement: Athletes should be comfortable swimming 25 m and in deep water without assistance.
When/Where: Tuesday, December 2 - Splash Wave Pool 6 to 6:30 pm
Register: www.gocapitalasc.ca
Hemlock Park ribbon cutting ceremony - Dec. 3
Manor Park residents are invited to join Councillor Rawlson King for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the reopening of Hemlock Park. The event on December 3, beginning at 3:30 pm at 361 Meadow Park Place, will feature brief remarks, a ribbon cutting, hot chocolate and treats.
Adàwe Crossing Anniversary Celebration - Dec. 4
Everyone is invited to the 10th anniversary celebration of the Adàwe Crossing on Dec. 4 at 6 pm. The neighbourhood gathering, hosted by the Overbrook Community Association and Action Sandy Hill, will feature cookies and hot chocolate at the pedestrian crossing, located near 1 Donald Street
Manor Park Holiday Night Market & Children's Holiday Market - Dec. 5
Enjoy a Holiday Night Market on Friday, December 5, 5 to 8 pm at 1805 Gaspé Avenue. Running in conjunction with the Manor Park Community Council's Children's Holiday Market.
Holiday Night Market
A Holiday Night Market will take place from 5 to 8 pm at 1805 Gaspé, featuring local vendors, food, mulled wine and cider, non-alcoholic drinks, and hot chocolate. It’s an indoor market and a chance to support local makers.
Ottawa Street Markets: www.ottstreetmarkets.ca
RSVP here: www.facebook.com
Children’s Holiday Market
Running at the same time and location, the Manor Park Community Council’s Children’s Holiday Market allows kids to choose a gift for someone special with help from an MPCC “elf.” Gift tags are $5, and presents are wrapped on-site. Advance reservations are required due to high demand.
Reserve here. RSVP here: www.facebook.com
Odawa Christmas Craft Fair - Dec. 5 & 6
- Friday, December 5 - 1 to 9 pm
- Saturday, December 6 - 11 am to 7 pm
- Location: The Rideau Community Hub at 815 St. Laurent Blvd.
Snowflake Breakfast for the Partage Vanier Food Bank - Dec. 5
20 years of pancakes, smiles, and solidarity! Don’t miss the 20th Snowflake Breakfast happening on December 5th — a joyful gathering for a cause that brings us all together: supporting the Partage Vanier Food Bank.
Friday, December 5, 2025 | 7am–10am
Centre Pauline-Charron, 164 Jeanne Mance S.
Get your tickets now and come celebrate with us! You can purchase them at the Centre Pauline-Charron or at www.snowflakebreakfast.com.
Santa is coming to Overbrook - Dec. 6
Overbrook residents are invited to the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street, on Dec. 6, from 11 am to 2 pm. Have your free photo taken with Santa. Enjoy free pizza, face painting, popcorn, music and more.
Rockcliffe Park Community Bazaar - Dec. 6
The Rockcliffe Park Residents Association hosts a community bazaar on Dec. 6 from 10 am to 4 pm at 380 Springfield Road. Perfect for your holiday shopping. A percentage of sales will support the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre's Food Bank.
Beechwood Candlelight Service - Dec. 7
You are invited to participate in Beechwood’s Christmas Candlelight Service on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 6:00 pm. A special way to remember loved ones, our service features a non-denominational candlelight memorial service with carols and a tree-lighting ceremony. Beechwood is happy to welcome back the Ottawa University Choir to lead the carols. A non perishable food item for the Food Bank would be appreciated. Our event is outdoors, please dress warmly. Registration is not required. Details: beechwoodottawa.ca
Creating Christmas Magic - Dec. 7
The Vanier Museopark, in partnership with the Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est and the Vanier Community Services Centre, invites you to take part in the 4th edition of Creating Christmas Magic, a family event that aims to collect new toys, gift cards, and cash donations for children in need in Vanier. Details: museoparc.ca
- When: Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Where: Centre Richelieu-Vanier (300 des Pères-Blancs Ave.)
- Musical performance by Kristine St-Pierre et le groupe de Noël at 11:30 a.m.
Those who are unable to attend this community celebration, but would still like to take part in Creating Christmas Magic, can make a monetary donation online or by dropping off new, unwrapped toys in donation boxes at the following locations:
- Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est Head Office 4000 Labelle Street
- Centre Pauline-Charron 164 Jeanne Mance Street
- Le coin du livre 2200 Montréal Road
- Vanier Museopark 2nd floor, 300 des Pères-Blancs Avenue
Hurricane Melissa Relief Drive - every Saturday until Dec. 6
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Donating essential items such as non-perishable food, hygiene products, and clothing;
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Sponsoring shipment or transportation costs; or
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Spreading the word within your networks.
On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 6:30 PM, the OrKidstra family is encouraged to come out and cheer on our new and returning students at our FREE OrKidstra Vanier Hub Holiday Concert. This concert will feature a wonderful selection of classical, jazz, pop, and holiday favourites, as well as music from around the world. The OrKidstra Vanier Hub Holiday Concert will take place in the theatre at Ottawa Technical Secondary School. 485 Donald Street. Tickets are not required. Seating is general admission and doors will open at approximately 6:15 pm. Plenty of free parking is available behind the school; please enter through the main doors facing Donald Street. Admission is free. Donations in support of OrKidstra’s mission to empower kids and build community through music are welcome. Details: orkidstra.ca
Rideau Hall outdoor ice rink - open for the season
The Rideau Hall Rink is officially open for the season! This year’s new refrigerated ice surface opens a fresh chapter in a skating tradition that began in 1872. Public skating runs until March 29, 2026.
- Weekdays: 5 to 8:30 pm
- Weekends: 1 to 8:30 pm
Projects and Construction Activities in and around Ward 13
St. Laurent Boulevard Fibre Network Installation - Work continues into December before winter shutdown
- Winter Shutdown Date: Construction operations are currently anticipated to continue through early December 2025. At that time, the Contractor will suspend operations for the winter season.
- Current Status: The bulk of the primary construction work is expected to be complete before the winter shutdown.
- Spring Finalization: Crews will need to return briefly in the spring of 2026 to finalize the remaining reinstatement works (e.g., permanent paving, concrete and landscaping).The Contractor will actively monitor all temporary reinstatement works throughout the winter months to ensure public safety and accessibility are maintained.
Road Closure - Queen Mary Street - Dec. 1 to 12
A contractor will be installing new site services, including water, sanitary and stormwater, at a property on Queen Mary Street, beginning the morning of Dec. 1. A road closure is required between Marion Avenue and the Vanier Parkway. The duration of the road closure will last approximately from the morning of December 1 through to December 12. Notifications have been provided to nearby residents.
Dagmar Infrastructure Renewal Project - Community Information Sessions - Dec. 4
Hydro Ottawa is embarking on an essential infrastructure renewal project that extends into both Rideau-Vanier and Rideau-Rockcliffe wards. Hydro Ottawa will be undertaking the multi-year, multi-phase Dagmar Infrastructure Renewal project to replace aging equipment and upgrade our electricity distribution system. This work is localized specifically within the North Vanier area and is an essential requirement to help meet growing electricity demand while improving overall system reliability. This initiative is one of the many projects they are prioritizing as a core component of Hydro Ottawa’s commitment to modernize its entire electricity grid. These proactive, sustained investments across our service territory ensure Hydro Ottawa can provide a reliable and ultimately more sustainable electricity supply for all of their customers.
As part of the Dagmar Infrastructure Renewal project, Hydro Ottawa will:
- upgrade a total of 291 electrical poles
- install 120 new electrical transformers
- install approximately 15 kilometres of overhead primary and secondary conductors
- install new underground duct work and 2 kilometres of new underground primary conductors
Work is scheduled to commence in January 2026 and has an estimated completion date of December 2027. As this project advances, customers will be further notified should a planned power outage that impacts their residence or business be required to complete work safely. Over the coming days, customers who will be impacted by this project will also receive these details.
Hydro Ottawa will be holding two virtual community information sessions on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Please join us at one or both of the sessions to learn more about the project and speak directly with members of the team as we complete this important work.
Afternoon information session
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
Time: 12:15 to 1 pm
Registration: hydroottawa.com/dagmar
Evening information session
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
Time: 7 to 7:45 pm
Registration: hydroottawa.com/dagmar
Aecon Utilities continues work on the Enbridge Gas St. Laurent Pipeline Replacement project at multiple locations in Rideau-Rockcliffe, Beacon Hill-Cyrville and Alta Vista. The project is near completion with restoration (resurfacing) for Coventry Road in the coming weeks. More than half of the pipe replacement will be completed by mid-November. Lane reductions and temporary road closures/lane closures, pedestrian and cyclists rerouting will continue as is. To address road conditions, the City and the Councillor's office has asked for more frequent street sweeping.
- Cummings Ave. between Ogilvie Road and Cyrville Road, as well as Cummings at Labelle
- Michael Street from Belfast to Labelle
- St. Laurent Blvd. between Belfast and Tremblay
- Ogilvie Road from Cummings Avenue to the St. Laurent Blvd. intersection
- Coventry Road from St. Laurent Blvd., past the Vanier Parkway towards the RCMP building
The work involves the installation of a new 16-inch gas main. Much of the work is being done overnight from 7 pm to 6 am in order to avoid major traffic implications during peak travel periods.
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Help Mama Africa FC Represent Ottawa at the Golden Goal Tournament 2025!
Small Business Saturday - Nov. 29
Small Business Saturday is November 29! Did you know that 66 cents of every dollar you spend at a small business stays in the community? This holiday season let’s support local entrepreneurs who keep Ottawa strong. Details: www.smallbusinesseveryday.ca/home
Ecology Ottawa's Second Annual Youth Summit - Nov. 29
Ecology Ottawa is hosting its annual Youth Summit on November 29 at 9:30 am at Richcraft Hall, 1125 Colonel By Drive, bringing together youth aged 16 to 23 from across the city to connect, learn, and lead on local environmental action. The Summit will feature expert speakers, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities for young people passionate about climate, sustainability, and community change. This is a great opportunity for youth to get inspired, build leadership skills, and contribute to a greener Ottawa. Spaces are limited, so please only register if you intend to attend. Interested participants can learn more and register at Eventbrite.
E-Scooter 2025 End of Season Survey - open until Nov. 30
The 2025 e-scooter pilot season will end by November 15. As in previous years, the end-of-season survey is now available on the City’s website here: End of Season Survey. This survey, which closes November 30, is open to everyone, whether you have used the shared e-scooters or not.
Ottawa City Council adopted a series of urban design guidelines in 2007–2008, covering everything from individual facilities (e.g., gas stations) to broader areas like Mainstreet corridors. These guidelines support the City’s planning and development review processes and are used by staff, developers, community groups, and residents. Currently, there are no guidelines specific to mid-rise buildings (5–9 storeys). This project will create a comprehensive set of design guidelines for mid-rise buildings to help implement the Official Plan and guide the design of buildings, driveways, parking, landscaping, and adjacent streets. Participate in the survey before December. More details at Engage Ottawa.
- Date: Wednesday, December 3
- Time: 8:30 to 9:30 am
- Location: 110 Laurier Avenue, City Hall, starting in Jean Pigott Place and proceeding to Marion Dewar Plaza
City accepting commemorative naming fall applications - until Dec. 2
The City’s Commemorative Naming Program is now accepting fall applications to nominate people, histories and legacies that have helped shape Ottawa’s community. The nomination period runs until December 2. Commemorative naming can be applied to various municipal assets, such as new streets, indoor and outdoor amenities, major facilities and parks. The next application period will take place in the spring from March 20 to May 1, 2026. For more information, visit the commemorative naming page or contact the commemorative naming team by email.
Anti-Racism Strategy Survey – Open Until December 5
As part of the City of Ottawa’s Anti-Racism Strategy, the Elections Office is conducting an online survey to engage with racialized communities to identify barriers when participating in the municipal election process.
- Complete the online survey that is available until 11:59 pm on December 5, 2025.
- If you are unable or prefer not to fill out the survey online, you can still provide your feedback to the Elections Office in the following ways:
- Email: [email protected]
- Mail: Elections Office, 1221 Cyrville Road, Unit B, Ottawa, ON
- Telephone: 613-580-2660
If you have any questions, please contact the Elections Office by email at [email protected] or by telephone at 613-580-2660.
Vigil in Ottawa for the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women - Dec. 6
The Mayor's 23rd annual Christmas Celebration - Dec. 6
Mayor Mark Sutcliffe hosts his annual outdoor Christmas celebration at City Hall on Dec. 6 from 3 to 6 pm. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, roast marshmallows over a campfire, enjoy hot chocolate and taffy on snow, skate on the Rink of Dreams, enjoy the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 4:45 pm, as well as horse-drawn wagon rides and live entertainment. To help those in need and to share in the spirit of the holiday season, admission to this sponsored event is a donation to the Ottawa Food Bank. Indulge in delicious BeaverTails for only $2 with all proceeds going directly to those in need.
Light over Darkness - an event in support of Afghan women and girls on Human Rights Day - Dec. 10
Applications now open for the Province’s Anti-Hate Security and Prevention grant program - Applications due Dec. 11
The Ontario government is taking action to protect communities and combat hate incidents by investing an additional $12.75 million in the Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant (AHSP). The grant helps faith-based and cultural organizations implement safety measures, including security guards, building upgrades and surveillance cameras to ensure their community spaces remain safe and secure. Applications for the AHSP grant are now open, and eligible organizations are encouraged to apply by Dec. 11 at 5 pm. The grant provides up to $10,000 to community organizations to improve or implement new measures to protect their spaces from hate-related incidents. Details: www.ontario.ca
Eligible organizations include:
- Religious and spiritual communities (e.g., mosques, synagogues, temples and churches)
- First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban Indigenous organizations
- Cultural groups (e.g., 2SLGBTQQIA+ groups, Black, Asian and other diverse organizations)
- A complete list can be found at Ontario.ca/AHSP
OC Transpo/Loblaw Holiday Food Drive - Dec. 13
OC Transpo is holding its 41st OC Transpo/Loblaw Annual Holiday Food Drive on Saturday, December 13, from 10 am to 5 pm at participating Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, Your Independent Grocer and No Frills stores across Ottawa. Since 2019, there has been a 90 per cent increase in the use of food programs across Ottawa, leading to the highest level of demand in the Ottawa Food Bank’s 41-year history. By adding a few extra items to your cart on December 13, you can continue the tradition of coming together to support members of our community during this unprecedented time of need. Monetary donations can also be made anytime on the Ottawa Food Bank’s donation page. Your monetary donations will not only help provide non-perishables, but also fresh and nutritious foods like fruit, vegetables, meat, bread, dairy and eggs to those who are accessing food banks in our city. Details: www.octranspo.com
Emergency Services News
Updated Community Safety Data Portal
The Ottawa Police Service has launched a significant update to its Community Safety Data Portal, giving residents a clearer and more accessible way to explore local safety information. The update reflects community feedback and a renewed focus on helping people find and understand the data that shapes public safety conversations in Ottawa. Public use of the portal continues to grow. It’s served more than 100,000 users this year, more than double last year, driving more than 350,000 page views. Residents can view these new changes by visiting data.ottawapolice.ca. For more information, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
10th Annual Human Rights Learning Forum - Dec. 4
The Ottawa Police Service is pleased to host the 10th Annual Human Rights Learning Forum in recognition of International Human Rights Day. Now in its 10th year, the forum continues to bring together community members, partners, and police to explore how collaboration and shared understanding can advance human rights in policing. It recognizes that true progress is built on listening, learning, and working together — the collective strength that comes when communities unite for positive change. This year’s theme is “From Awareness to Action – Advancing Human Rights in Policing: Collaboration for Safer, More Inclusive Communities.”
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025This event is free and open to everyone. Registration is required. You can REGISTER to participate or visit ottawapolice.ca/HRLF
Draft OPS Budget focused on service, district policing -- includes multi-year efficiencies plan
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) tabled its 2026 Draft Operating and Capital Budget to the Ottawa Police Services Board (OPSB) today – a spending plan that continues to advance the Board’s Strategic Priorities, focusing on service delivery and community safety, staffing stabilization, and district policing. Visit ottawapolice.ca for details.
A Decade of Compassion: Helping Women in Ottawa through the Purse Project - Donations welcome until Dec. 14
Citron Hygiene Warehouse
2855 Swansea Crescent, Unit 150
Ottawa Police Stations
474 Elgin St. (8 am - 6 pm)
3343 St-Joseph Blvd. (9 am - 6 pm)
211 Huntmar Dr. (9 am - 6 pm)
Shoppers Drug Mart Locations
174 Bank St.
702 Bank St. (Unit 700)
1080 Bank St.
181 Greenbank Rd.
3781 Strandherd Dr.
- pads and tampons
- body and face wash
- shampoo and conditioner
- deodorant
- toothpaste and brushes
- shaving products