Now that we’re through winter, construction season is upon us.
“Ottawa is a city under construction...this year the public should be prepared to feel the crunch,” said councillor Keith Egli.
In 2016 the city plans to spend $210 million on infrastructure renewal projects, $132 million in new infrastructure and $35 million on road resurfacing.
The most critical change for drivers will be on Nicholas Street. Beginning this Sunday, only one northbound lane will be open to traffic between the Queensway and Laurier Avenue. The other northbound lane will turn into a bus lane. This is expected to be in place until 2018.
"In terms of impact, this is one that will certainly have the most significant impact," says Ottawa's Infrastructure Manager Alain Gonthier."
The city has no choice but to ramp up construction this summer. The deadline for the LRT launch in 2018 is fast approaching, as well, staff want Ottawa's downtown core to be beautiful, calm and construction free for Canada's 150th birthday celebrations. "We're basically using this as an opportunity for Ottawa to shine," says Egli, "to show the rest of the country and the people who live here what a great city it is."
Drivers and commuters are being warned that delays may be longer around the core. They're asking employees to consider a staggered work day or working from home, taking the bus, walk or bike, carpool and whenever possible avoid construction areas and take another route.
"If you want to continue to be a creature of habit and stick in your car then it's going to take you longer," warns Egli.
Other major projects include:
- Scott & Albert Street changes
- The west Transitway expansion from Bayshore to Moodie
- Making Main Street a “complete street”
- Widening of Greenbank Road
OC Transpo users will also face delays and route changes due to the transitway closures at Laurier Avenue to Lees Station and Tunney's Pasture Station to Merton Street.
Ottawa/Gatineau Construction Map - 2016
Source: City of Ottawa
