In a series of letters to the editor published on June 18, 2026, Ottawa residents express frustration with city councillors over issues ranging from free weekend transit to tree preservation and pedestrian safety.
Tree Damage and City Neglect
Evelyne Power of Ottawa writes about the lack of response from the city regarding tree damage to houses in Copeland Park. She notes that the city seems to save trees at the expense of people when convenient, yet allows small houses to be torn down along with every tree on the lot to accommodate mega-homes. Power points out that in older neighbourhoods, smaller homes are being replaced by concrete monoliths, stripping the area of its tree canopy. She calls on the city to do better for its residents, especially given the affordable housing shortage.
Free Transit Proposal Criticized
Dave Currier of Barrhaven criticizes the offer of free light rail on weekends, calling it out of touch with reality. He argues that the system is in serious financial trouble, with taxpayers out of pocket four billion dollars. Currier demands an investigation into the costs of the transit system, stating that residents overpaid and deserve answers.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety
Joanna Crilly of Ottawa comments on road safety, referencing an article about Vision Zero. She suggests making safety helmets mandatory for all cyclists and scooter riders, regardless of age, and forbidding the wearing of earphones while cycling. Crilly notes that earbuds allow hearing a horn or bell, but earphones do not, and that head injuries from bicycle and scooter accidents are a serious concern.
Parking Issues at Tunney's Pasture
Kerry Wilson of Ottawa highlights the difficulty of finding evening and weekend parking at the north end of Parkdale Avenue, despite the existence of 3,754 spaces at the Tunney's Pasture federal employment site. He notes that parking used to be free outside office hours but is now managed by Reef Parking, with Parking Indigo operating closer to Scott Street. Wilson describes the situation as extortion.
The letters reflect growing discontent among Ottawa residents with city policies on transit, tree preservation, and safety.
