Plaza, Pin Curbs & Cathcart Park
York Street Plaza
We’re excited to announce that a new public space is being created in the ByWard Market. The York Street Plaza will occupy a portion of the parking block, at the west end near the York Street fountain.
This pilot project will provide a flexible new space for creative programming by community groups and the Business Improvement Association. It will also serve as an appealing gathering place for visitors to our City’s gem: the ByWard Market.
The iconic OTTAWA sign, which was set up in Inspiration Village during Ottawa 2017 festivities, will have a new home in the York Street Plaza. Construction is set to be completed later this fall. The plaza will be approximately 450 m2 of asphalt and will be surrounded by pre-cast concrete curbs, movable Muskoka chairs, lights, a power supply and planters.
Space Planning
The City will be creating a master plan for public space within the broader ByWard Market area in 2018. We will be engaging a wide range of community and business stakeholders in order to help develop a compelling vision for the market.
Bicycle Safety
On a safety front and due to popular demand, we have put pin curbs and a few flex stakes on the Cumberland bike lane between Besserer and George. We were struggling to keep this bike lane free of stopped vehicles, particularly the contraflow bike lane (south of Rideau). Now, cyclists can enjoy a clear path, free of obstacles, and a safer connection point.
In spring, we heard many concerns regarding dogs being off leash in Cathcart Park. There was tension within the community as a result of children and dogs sharing close quarters within this park.
We hosted two consultations, and worked with group of residents to come to a solution that works for all.
Construction has now begun on a lightning shaped fence that will run down the middle of the park, separating dogs and children. Construction is set to be complete in November. This project will also include additional garbage cans, benches, trees and improved lighting.
We look forward to seeing our community enjoy the new Plaza, pin curbed bike lane and improved community park.