Sir George-Étienne Cartier Park Plan

The NCC is currently planning for the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Park. This includes defining the long-term vision that will guide the conservation, enhancement and sustainable management of this riverfront park.

This park’s lands surround the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway along the shore of the majestic Ottawa River—a federally designated Canadian Heritage River. It is a wonderful scenic area where you can appreciate the beauty of our natural heritage, cultural landscapes and national institutions.

The NCC is the steward of federal lands in the National Capital Region. As such, it is responsible for protecting and preserving public places for all Canadians. This plan for the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Park will enhance access to the river and animate key public spaces within the park.

About the plan

The park plan focuses on a 13-kilometre stretch of federal lands in Ottawa along the Ottawa River. From west to east, the area extends from Rideau Hall at Princess Avenue to the end of the parkway at St. Joseph Boulevard. It includes the parkway, pathways, trails, national cultural institutions and green spaces.

The goals of the plan:

Promote and protect a healthy natural environment.
Foster safe and continuous access to the park and the river.
Celebrate the heritage, culture and diversity of the riverfront corridor.
Create and promote diverse, balanced and engaging park experiences.

Engagement

This process includes engagement with the public, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation and the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation, a public advisory committee, as well as stakeholders at key milestones in the planning process.

The NCC has completed rounds one and two of public and stakeholder engagement. The public input has informed the plan’s draft vision, concepts and goals. The third and next round of public and stakeholder engagement is planned for fall 2023. It will focus on policies and sector plans.

The NCC aims to complete the plan in spring 2024 and to submit it for approval in summer 2024.