Ottawa Board of Trade Unveils Transformative Action Plan for Downtown Ottawa
23 May 2024 - 1:00AM
Today, the Ottawa Board of Trade, in collaboration with the
Canadian Urban Institute is thrilled to announce a landmark
initiative that promises to revolutionize downtown Ottawa and the
region.
The Downtown Ottawa Action Agenda aims to
reimagine and rejuvenate Downtown Ottawa, making it more diverse,
resilient, and vibrant for generations and challenges to come.
Under the plan, Downtown Ottawa will see the addition of 40,000
new residents and the creation of 50,000 jobs by 2034, transforming
the cityscape into a bustling hub of activity and innovation. The
plan proposes creating a joint $500 million fund to kick-start a
series of catalytic projects, including significant enhancements to
the public realms of Sparks Street and ByWard Market, and the
establishment of a new Business Incubation District and an
Arts/Culture Corridor.
"This is more than a plan; it's a renaissance for Ottawa’s
downtown," said Sueling Ching, President & CEO, Ottawa Board of
Trade. "By fostering a live-work-play environment, we are not only
boosting the local economy but also creating a culturally rich,
inclusive, and accessible downtown for all to enjoy. And a Capital
City all Canadians can be proud of."
The action plan was developed by the Canadian Urban Institute,
in partnership with the City of Ottawa, Ottawa Tourism, Invest
Ottawa, BOMA Ottawa and the National Capital Commission. "Our
collaborative approach ensures that the transformation of Downtown
Ottawa not only meets the economic and cultural needs of today but
paves the way for future generations," said Brendan McGuinty, Board
Chair, Ottawa Board of Trade.
As Downtown Ottawa transforms, it will serve as a model of urban
renewal, showcasing the power of strategic investment and community
collaboration in building a thriving, dynamic city center. The
Ottawa Board of Trade invites residents, businesses, and all
stakeholders to join in this exciting journey to reshape our
capital’s core.
Top Five Immediate Actions:
- Prioritize Housing:
Streamlining processes to increase downtown residency through
higher density and use of public land.
- Invest in the Future: Establishing financial
mechanisms for ongoing downtown investment.
- Address Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental
Health: Implementing focused programs with multi-level
government funding.
- Improve Regional Mobility: Enhancing transit
options to make downtown more accessible.
- Position Downtown
Nationally and Internationally: Marketing efforts to boost
economic activity and enhance downtown's image.
"Downtown Ottawa's revitalization is a blueprint for how cities
can harness urban space to meet the challenges of the 21st
century," said Mary Rowe, President & CEO, Canadian Urban
Institute. “By focusing on inclusivity, resilience, and vibrant
public spaces, Ottawa is setting a standard for urban
innovation."
“We’re taking a Team Ottawa approach to our downtown. By coming
together as a community, we’re not just revitalizing our core, but
also setting the stage for a dynamic and resilient future for all
Ottawa residents,” said Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe.
For media inquiries, please contact:Annette
Goerner, Director of Public Relations,
spark*advocacyannette@sparkadvocacy.ca 613-818-6941
Background:The Ottawa Board of Trade is the voice of business
and a key economic partner in the National Capital Region. Our
mission is to cultivate a thriving world class business community.
One that drives affordable, inclusive, and sustainable city
building. We are champions of Ottawa as the best place to live,
work, play, learn, visit and invest. For information, visit
www.ottawabot.ca.
The Canadian Urban Institute is a national platform where
policy makers, urban professionals, civic and business
leaders, community activists and academics can learn, share, and
collaborate with one another from coast to coast to coast. Through
research, engagement, and storytelling, CUI’s mission is to support
vibrant, equitable, livable, and resilient cities in Canada. For
information, visit https://canurb.org/.