IN THE NEWS
New pedestrian zone in the Byward Market For several years the City
of Ottawa’s Environmental Advisory Committee has been promoting the idea of more space for pedestrians in the ByWard market. Working closely with Councillor Bédard, the Lowertown Community Association, Ecology Ottawa, the Byward Market BIA, and city market’s management, the EAC secured initial support for this concept from City Council in 2008. During the 2010 budget deliberations last year, City Council formally authorized funding for the construction of a new pedestrian area at the intersection of William and York streets in the Market. The trial phase, which redirects traffic prior to construction, began on April 26, 2010 and construction on the final pedestrian square is expected to begin in the Fall of 2010 if the trial proves successful. “I am thrilled that this initiative
it continues to be the heart of Ottawa’s cultural and commercial identity.
Councillor Bédard stated
that, “This project is another step towards a better shopping and entertainment experience in the By Ward Market.” Early media reports including
the recent article by the Ottawa Sun’s Justin Sadler suggest that the concept of a public square in the market is popular with patrons and tourists. http://
www.ottawasun.com/news/ ottawa/2010/05/16/13967806.
has estimated the number of premature deaths in Ottawa due to air pollution is 503 per year (2008 figures) with the greatest health risks within 100m of heavy traffic, the pedestrian zone will provide a healthier environment for everyone in the Market. Liz Bernstein of Ecology
Proposed final design of the new pedestrian area in the ByWard Market at the intersection of York and William streets.
Ottawa has said “we fully support this initiative and others like it. The vibrant communities of the future will be built around pedestrians, cycling and public transit and this pilot project in Byward Market is a small step in the right direction.” More space for pedestrians in the
Market has advantages for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. While similar efforts over the years were not successful, the EAC is proud that the City and key stakeholders see the advantage of such an area and are moving forward to make it a reality.
html Specifically, it will create an
is moving forward. It will lead to an enhanced Market experience for residents, vendors and visitors alike, and will continue to demonstrate the Market’s allure as a vibrant social and commercial destination. It is truly an idea whose time has come” said Patrick Quealey who chairs the Environmental Advisory Committee and has promoted the project since 2007. The Pedestrian zone will enhance the economic, social and environmental profile of the Market and will ensure that
10 ottawaoutdoors
inviting social space with less stress for drivers and pedestrians, as well as an excellent venue for public gatherings, festivals and concerts. The design of the new zone also allows for more vendor space which will help the local economy and create a more consumer friendly shopping environment. The pedestrian area will also
reduce localized air pollution by up to 26%, based on data collected at the site by City staff. Considering that the Ontario Medical Association
Should you wish to voice support for this initiative please contact the following people: the Market BIA bia@byward-
market.com ph: (613) 562-3325, Councillor Georges Bédard:
georges.bedard@
ottawa.ca ph: 613-580-2482; or the EAC at
ottawaeac@hotmail.com. The Environmental Advisory
Committee provides advice to City Council on all issues related to the environment and sustainable development and is made up entirely of expert volunteers from the community. website: http://ottawaeac.
wordpress.com/
www.ottawaoutdoors.ca
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