News Release
April 20, 2023
The NCC provided an update to the NCC Board of Directors on its major projects today, including the rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system. As steward of the Capital Region’s most iconic assets and as the federal urban planner for the region, the NCC works with its partners and stakeholders to create inclusive, sustainable, and meaningful public spaces for all Canadians.
The Rideau Canal is at the heart of the National Capital Region’s identity. The lighting systems within the Rideau Canal corridor have deteriorated beyond their useful lifecycle. Large sections of lighting are no longer functional and other sections are at imminent risk of failure, creating health and safety concerns for the public. The NCC, in collaboration with the City of Ottawa, is beginning work this summer to replace and repair these systems. The work is expected to be completed in 2025.
With improved lighting that meets modern health and safety standards, this important project will greatly enhance safety on the multi-use pathways along the Rideau Canal, on Colonel-By Drive and on Queen Elizabeth Driveway. The new lighting will also be energy efficient, consistent with the NCC’s Capital Illumination Plan, which aims to enhance the Capital’s beauty and accessibility.
The NCC Major Projects update to the board also included:
Kìwekì Point Redevelopment: Construction is ongoing, and a universally accessible pedestrian bridge will be installed spanning from Major’s Hill Park to Kìwekì Point. The new park and bridge are scheduled for completion in late 2023, for an official opening in the summer of 2024.
NCC River House Revitalization: The NCC River House underwent extensive renovations to protect this heritage building and to make it universally accessible for all Canadians to enjoy year-round. Work is currently underway to transform the shoreline to provide a unique experience as well as new public recreational opportunities. This phase of the work is scheduled to be completed in 2023.
Parliament Hill Escarpment Rehabilitation: Major flooding severely damaged a segment of the Parliament Hill escarpment in 2019. This project will improve stability following significant erosion. The Parliament Hill escarpment holds a Classified heritage designation and is of cultural significance. This project will be completed by the fall of 2024.
Lady Grey Drive Wall Replacement: The Lady Grey Drive wall will be replaced to improve its structural integrity. Work started in March 2023 and is scheduled to be completed in 2026. This project aligns with the vision for the Rideau to Rideau cultural and historic precinct, which will include the construction of a promenade connecting the Rideau Canal to Rideau Falls.
Champlain Bridge Rehabilitation: The rehabilitation of the Champlain Bridge started in August 2022. Phase 2 of the project started in March 2023 and will be completed this fall. To minimize the impact on residents, project timelines have been accelerated with the objective of completing the work eight months ahead of schedule.
Westboro Beach Area Redevelopment Project: This area is one of the green spaces covered by the Ottawa River South Shore Riverfront Park Plan that aims to create an iconic Capital Park strengthening the relationship between people, nature, and the culture of the Ottawa River. The site design improves park amenities, access, movement, shoreline views and habitat. This project is ongoing with completion scheduled in 2024.
Philippe Lake Campground Rehabilitation: This project will significantly improve the future camping experience by creating modern and accessible facilities and reducing the area’s overall environmental impact. This project is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2024.
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Media Information:
Benoît Desjardins
NCC Media Relations
613 286-0886
benoit.desjardins@ncc-ccn.ca