Ottawa City Staff Recommend Major Transportation Shift in Official Plan Amendments
City of Ottawa staff have put forward significant amendments to the municipality's Official Plan, calling for the removal of the proposed Preston Street Extension and its replacement with an active transportation bridge. This recommendation comes ahead of a crucial housing and planning committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, February 4.
Traffic Concerns Drive Proposed Change
According to a detailed report prepared by city officials, the Preston Street Extension would have connected Albert and Wellington streets through the LeBreton Flats area, serving as an arterial road to link LeBreton Flats with Kichi Zībī Mīkan. However, staff conducted a comprehensive transportation impact assessment that revealed concerning findings.
The assessment concluded that the extension would likely attract additional vehicular traffic and exacerbate congestion on surrounding streets. Furthermore, the proposed bridge for the extension would have been twice as long as the existing Booth Street bridge, potentially creating accessibility challenges for reaching LeBreton Flats.
Active Transportation Bridge as Alternative Solution
Instead of the arterial road, city staff are proposing an active transportation bridge that would prioritize pedestrians and cyclists. This alternative approach aims to enhance the experience for non-motorized transportation users while improving access to public transit options, including O-Train stations.
The report emphasizes that this change aligns with the city's Secondary Plan, which places priority on transit, walking, and cycling infrastructure. Staff believe this amendment would better support Ottawa's vision for sustainable growth and community development.
Alignment with Broader Development Plans
The proposed transportation shift coincides with broader development initiatives in the LeBreton Flats area. City officials note that their recommendation aligns with the National Capital Commission's Master Concept Plan for LeBreton Flats, supporting the creation of what they describe as "a high-quality public realm and a complete, 15-minute neighbourhood."
Staff expressed confidence that the proposed amendment, along with supporting agreements and implementation tools, appropriately addresses potential risks while protecting municipal interests and advancing council-approved growth and transportation objectives.
Context of Major Development Projects
These transportation recommendations emerge as significant development projects take shape in the area. The National Capital Commission and Ottawa Senators are currently working through details before finalizing the sale of 11 acres of land for a new arena complex.
NCC CEO Toni Nussbaum has described the planned arena as potentially becoming "the crown jewel of the area." While specific arena designs remain undetermined, the Senators have indicated plans for a district featuring restaurants, housing, and hotel accommodations on the site.
Additionally, an NCC report outlines plans for constructing 4,500 residential units alongside 80,000 square metres of commercial space in the LeBreton Flats area, aiming to create a mixed-use community that meets daily needs for both residents and visitors.
The proposed Official Plan amendments will undergo debate during the upcoming planning and housing committee meeting, where city councilors will consider this significant shift in transportation planning for one of Ottawa's most prominent development areas.
