Ottawa-Gatineau is a waterfront capital, shaped by the meeting of the Ottawa, Gatineau and Rideau Rivers. These scenic waterways are part of the region’s deep history and identity — listen to our Capital Stories podcast episode to learn more.

For years, the public lost access to the water because of infrastructure and industry. But that’s changing. Today, we are reclaiming the shorelines and breathing new life into them, through a series of big and small projects.

Here’s a look at some of them.

Ripples of change

In recent years, we have rolled out several small, fast-tracked projects. These projects make our waterfront more vibrant, accessible and inviting.

Dow’s Lake recreational dock

A notable 2025 addition: A recreational dock on Dow’s Lake, offering space to swim, relax by the water or launch non-motorized watercraft. It is universally accessible and features Muskoka chairs and bike racks. A universally accessible portable washroom is available nearby.

NCC Bistros

In partnership with local businesses, our seasonal Bistros bring charm and convenience to scenic waterfront locations. These pop-up food and beverage services bring people together in relaxed, natural settings like Remic Rapids Park, Patterson Creek Park and Confederation Park.

More services in waterfront parks

From paddleboard rentals to lazy river activity and snacks by the water, expanded services at Bate Island Park, Leamy Lake Park, Hog’s Back Park, Major’s Hill Park and Rideau Falls Park offer more ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Bold transformations

Besides smaller projects, we are also leading bold, large-scale projects. These extensive initiatives restore shoreline infrastructure and improve long-term public access — they are investments in our region’s health and future.

Westboro Beach area

Reopened in May 2025, Westboro Beach received a complete makeover. The site now features a new zero-carbon pavilion that includes a restaurant, café, and accessible amenities. The new area includes a range of new features, such as accessible pathways and a scenic riverfront lookout, interpretation panels on local history and geology, a historical themed children’s play area, picnic and volleyball spaces as well as outdoor showers.

Kìwekì Point

Also reopened in May 2025, Kìwekì Point got a dramatic redesign. It restores access to one of the most spectacular lookouts in the National Capital Region, with panoramic views of Parliament Hill and Ottawa-Gatineau. This park is now universally accessible year-round, and thanks to a re-established historic link, it is connected to Major’s Hill Park by the new Pìdàban Bridge.

NCC River House

Opened in 2023, the NCC River House is a century-old building that is universally accessible year-round. We transformed this heritage building to feature options to enjoy the shoreline in all seasons. In summer, there is a free public dock to swim from and launch a kayak or canoe — and we’ve partnered with a local business that offers rentals nearby.

Chaudières area parks

New parks around the Chaudières Bridge, Tesasini and Pangishimo, opened recently and bring life to the shoreline. Mòkaham Park, which will be close to the other two parks, is currently in the design phase. Meanwhile, a new park at Kruger’s Gatineau Complex is under construction and expected to open in 2026.

Lady Grey Wall and Escarpment

This important structural project, scheduled to be completed in fall 2025, will play a key role in animating the waterways. The historic Lady Grey Drive retaining wall and surrounding landscape had started collapsing. Its repair will eventually make way for the construction of a promenade connecting the Rideau Canal to the Rideau Falls.

Victoria Island

Launched in 2019, the Victoria Island site remediation is underway to clean up and restore the area for future public use. The island is currently closed and is expected to reopen in 2028. Once complete, it will be ready for everyone to enjoy again.

The future of our shorelines

Many of these projects were first found in long-term planning documents. Three visionary plans reimagine the Capital’s riverfronts as greener, more accessible, better connected and more resilient for generations to come.

These plans offer a glimpse into the future of our shorelines:

Our work on the shorelines is far from finished. Stay tuned for public consultations, new park openings and opportunities to shape the future of our Capital waterfronts.