Policy context
The 2023 Transportation Master Plan identified a list of projects intended to address missing links in the City’s active transportation network. This list of projects was developed following public engagement, Councilor input, and a city-wide network review. Cycling facilities on North River Road were included on the approved list of active transportation projects in the Plan.
Local context
The immediate area surrounding North River Road features several key amenities including Riverain Park, Riverside Memorial Park, Rideau Sports Centre, and l’École élémentaire publique Mauril-Bélanger. There are important active transportation connections in the area including the Adàwe Crossing Bridge, Donald Street and McArthur Avenue bike lanes, and the Eastern Rideau River Pathway. Implementing cycling facilities along North River Road is expected to encourage cycling and improve safety for people of all ages and abilities when travelling to local amenities.
Currently, OC Transpo routes 14, 18, and school route 624 provide direct service along North River Road, with routes 9, 12, 15, 19, and school routes 609, 615, 616 providing further service in the area.
New ways to bus are coming to Ottawa! OC Transpo's new bus network will focus on frequency, local service in your neighbourhood, and connections to key destinations. New Ways to Bus includes more than 100 routes and is planned to launch following the opening of O-Train Lines 2 and 4 in the south. Every neighbourhood and most customers will see changes to their trip. Please visit New Ways to Bus | OC Transpo for more information about the changes coming to bus routes in the area.
Project details
The project proposes the following roadway modifications to North River Road.
- Painted bike lanes in both lanes (width varying from 1.5 to 1.8 m with a short segment at 1.3 m) from Queen Mary Street north to Selkirk Street.
- Intersection improvements at McArthur Avenue and North River Road.
- Removal of on-street parking from North River Road between McArthur Avenue and Queen Mary Street.
- New sidewalks and relocated bus stops on the west side of North River Road for improved accessibility to transit.
- Neighbourhood traffic calming measures are also being proposed on North River Road from Queen Mary Street north to Donald Street.