Eagerly anticipated bike paths in a section of Ottawa’s eastern region now have a set construction schedule following the recent unveiling of federal funding. The city and the federal government have disclosed that they are allocating $5.8 million and over $5.1 million, respectively, for the initiative. The proposal entails the establishment of “cycling facilities” on Orléans Boulevard from the Ottawa River Pathway to Boyer Road, as well as on Jeanne D’Arc Boulevard from Vineyard Drive/Fortune Drive to Orléans Boulevard.
While the specific design of the paths remains uncertain, they will not encroach on any road space. The federal funding is fresh, although cycling projects on both streets were already outlined in Ottawa’s Transportation Master Plan, with financing being considered through its annual budgeting process, as mentioned by the city to CBC News via email.
These dedicated bike paths, as stated by Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, will enhance the commuting experience for individuals uncomfortable with mixed traffic, ensuring smoother traffic flow for all and enabling both cyclists and motorists to reach their destinations more safely and efficiently. Once operational, the cycling facilities will link nearby residential neighborhoods with commercial zones along St. Joseph Boulevard and the Convent Glen LRT Station on the O-Train east extension.
Councilor Laura Dudas of Orléans West-Innes expressed that the project has been a “labour of love” for almost a decade since her election in 2018. Despite facing obstacles due to provincial legislation like Bill 60, which restricts municipalities from reducing motor vehicle lanes to accommodate bike lanes, a compromise was reached to advance the project. The construction is slated to commence in spring 2028 and conclude by summer 2029, according to city officials.