Ottawa's return-to-office policies are driving a surge in commuter bike demand, with mechanics reporting increased business as downtown cycling trips rebound post-pandemic, according to city traffic counter data. Meanwhile, the city's planning and housing committee has approved a proposed bylaw aimed at preventing bad-faith renovictions, moving it one step closer to law. In Centretown, a highrise development at MacLaren and O'Connor streets is set to move forward despite resident concerns.
Return-to-office fuels bike repair boom
Bike mechanics in Ottawa say the federal government's return-to-office mandate is driving a surge in demand for commuter bike repairs and tune-ups. City traffic counter data shows downtown bike trips are rebounding after pandemic-era lows, with some routes seeing numbers approaching pre-2020 levels. Mechanics report that many workers are dusting off old bikes or upgrading their commuter setups, leading to longer wait times at shops.
“We've seen a 30% increase in service appointments compared to this time last year,” said one local mechanic, who asked not to be named. “People are realizing that biking is faster than driving downtown with the traffic and parking costs.” The trend aligns with broader efforts to promote active transportation, though some advocates note that infrastructure gaps remain.
City committee advances anti-renoviction bylaw
Ottawa's planning and housing committee voted Wednesday to advance a proposed bylaw aimed at curbing bad-faith renovictions, with only Barrhaven East Coun. Wilson Lo dissenting. The measure, introduced by Somerset Coun. Ariel Troster, would require landlords to obtain a permit before evicting tenants for renovations and to provide a right of first refusal at the same rent once work is complete.
“This bylaw strikes a balance between protecting tenants and securing enough support to pass,” Troster said in a statement. The proposal now heads to full city council for a final vote. Tenant advocacy groups have praised the move, while landlord associations have raised concerns about added bureaucracy. The city estimates that bad-faith renovictions have increased by 15% since 2022, though exact numbers are difficult to track.
Highrise development in Centretown to proceed
Despite objections from some residents, a highrise apartment development at the intersection of MacLaren and O'Connor streets will move forward. Planning and housing committee chair Jeff Leiper told concerned residents that rescinding the April 22 approval would be a major step he would not take. The project, which includes a 25-storey tower with 200 residential units, has been in the works for over two years.
Barbara Kagedan, a nearby resident, expressed concerns about shadow impacts and increased traffic. “We feel the city is losing delegates' concerns in the process,” she said. Leiper acknowledged the feedback but noted that the proposal met all zoning requirements and had undergone extensive community consultation. Construction is expected to begin later this year.
Ottawa's food scene expands with new international cuisines
Ottawa's culinary landscape continues to diversify with the arrival of restaurants offering Georgian, Armenian, and Uyghur cuisine. Yan's Restaurant in the ByWard Market is the city's first purveyor of Georgian and Armenian dishes, while Altay Flame in Vanier has introduced Uyghur cooking. Both have received positive reviews for their authentic flavors.
“You'd almost think we live in Toronto,” said food critic Shawn Kim, who praised the new additions. The trend reflects Ottawa's growing multicultural population and increasing demand for international dining options.
Hidden youth homelessness crisis in Ottawa
A new report highlights the hidden crisis of youth homelessness in Ottawa, with many young people sleeping on couches, under bridges, or in tents. Reuben Khaemba, 23, shared his experience: “I stayed in my car, so I wasn't homeless.” The city has pledged to house all homeless youth by 2030, but advocates say the true number of unhoused young people is unknown.
The report estimates that hundreds of youth experience homelessness each year, though many do not identify as homeless. The city is working with community organizations to improve outreach and support services, but funding remains a challenge.
