Traffic dispute threatens to dampen holiday spirit on Taffy Lane

A donation box on Sugar Creek Way on Monday, Dec. 23, 2024 (Katelyn Wilson/CTV News).

A visit to Ottawa's Taffy Lane in Orléans is a staple this time of year, but a dispute amongst neighbours over traffic congestion is threatening to dim the magic of the holidays.

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"I'll politely refer to them as grinches," said Tony Sullivan. "They're complaining about the traffic and traffic issues."

Sullivan lives on Sugar Creek Way off Taffy Lane, which is famously known for spreading holiday cheer with its elaborately decorated homes.

Each year, the brightly lit street attracts thousands, and Sullivan says people will often stop at the end of his driveway to donate and collect chocolate and other goodies in return.

But the exchange is prompting complaints to police.

"They implied they are going to start ticketing us if we are on the street and we are obstructing traffic," Sullivan said.

Police say they've received two calls about the traffic, but neither resulted in a ticket. Police would not comment about future enforcement.

"There are some neighbours on the street that are frustrated with trying to leave their house and they have to wait just for the collection of the money," said neighbour Peter Abercrombie.

The homes on Taffy Lane have been known to light up the holidays since the 1970's.

For Abercrombie, it's his 47th year and says he doesn't mind the traffic.

"People will actually line up and wait for the lights to come on at 5 p.m.," said Abercrombie. "Lots of smiles everyone comes up the laneway and does a tour."

While donations are not required to enjoy the magic, Sullivan says he refuses to let the situation dampen his spirits.

"If they want to charge me over kindness they can go ahead and charge me with that, but I'll always give back to the community," he said.