The National Capital Commission (NCC) is working on a plan to enhance the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Park, located along the shore of the Ottawa River.
The park plan will focus on a 13-kilometre stretch of federal lands along the Ottawa River, from Rideau Hall at Princess Avenue to the end of the parkway at St. Joseph Boulevard.
This includes the parkway, pathways, trails, national cultural institutions and green spaces, the NCC said on its website.
The Sir George-Étienne Cartier Park Plan “will guide the conservation, enhancement and sustainable management of this riverfront park,” wrote the NCC, adding it will “enhance access to the river and animate key public spaces within the park.”
According to the NCC, the goals of the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Park Plan are as follows:
- 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.
An ongoing consultation is in progress to complete the final draft of the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Park Plan.
The NCC has completed rounds one and two of public and stakeholder consultation and is in the process of concluding round three.
It is asking residents to share their thoughts on the final draft plan between May 23 and June 6, 2024, in the final round of public and stakeholder engagement.
“This phase is your chance to tell us what you think about the central elements of the plan, look for opportunities to increase clarity and add any elements you think have been overlooked,” said the NCC.
The ongoing consultation has included engagement with the public, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation and the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation, a public advisory committee, and stakeholders at various milestones in the planning process.
The plan is set to be completed in spring 2024 and submitted for approval in summer 2024, wrote the NCC.
Residents can submit their input via PlaceSpeak or contact the NCC Public Affairs team at consultations@ncc-ccn.ca, between May 23 and June 6, 2024.