Priority Actions
Where to start?
The realization of the Downtown Ottawa Urban Design Strategy requires a multi-faceted implementation approach. Public officials and citizens alike must work together in a coordinated fashion to enhance the livability and quality of Ottawa's downtown. This is a goal which is attainable and which reflects the City's importance locally and nationally.
Listed below are priority actions which could initiate the Strategy effectively.
The first priority is to refocus attention on the downtown from a design point of view. If it is to be proactive in directing positive development change, the City (and its partners) must start to identify those areas undergoing the greatest transformation in the downtown area.
A downtown design forum should be established to oversee implementation of the strategy and establish a formal public recognition system for quality design.
Transportation issues play a significant role in shaping the future of downtown Ottawa. Addressing these issues should be the next priority. This should be followed by a program to increase the number and quality of downtown open spaces. These early priorities can form the background to matching community improvements to public expenditures on infrastructure.
There are four capital intensive projects that could then follow as resources are made available:
- Escarpment Park as the bridge between LeBreton Flats and the downtown
- the Market Public Realm Improvement program to foster civic tourism
- the Interface District for the business quarter
- the Central Park as the civic heart of Ottawa
Strengthening
- Create a Downtown Design Awards
To celebrate successes annually - Institutionalize the public space acquisition programs
Begin to increase the number of urban public spaces - Form a Downtown Ottawa Urban Design Group
To provide a specific focus for these issues and move forward study - Partnership Development
To continue to work closely with the NCC, private developers, BIA's, residents, the University and other key stakeholders
Transportation & Streets
Transportation Studies
- Initiate development of a comprehensive transportation framework for the entire downtown area
- Two-way street conversions and their relationship with the 417
- Grid restoration projects and street normalization programmes
- Streetscape improvement programmes to align rapid transport improvement and community improvements
- Public transit studies
- EA and Inter-Provincial Traffic studies
Match Community Improvements to Public Works Projects to institutionalize streetscape and public realm improvements
Projects
- The Eastern Market & Escarpment District Plans
To begin a proactive move on the two areas of inevitable change - ByWard Market Public Realm Investment
To invest in the next round of success for this area and foster civic tourism - Escarpment Park
To demonstrate excellence in civic public space and bridge LeBreton with he downtown - Central Park
As a demonstration of civic commitment to the heart of downtown through design - Interface District
As a core Capital-Civic partnership project and improvement to the Business District - Main Street Beautification
To work with local residents and BIA's to bring forward streetscape improvement plans for Rideau and Bank Streets