Frequently Asked Questions

The NCC is dedicated to keeping the public informed about the revitalization of LeBreton Flats, and public comments continue to play an important role in this project.

Has the remediation project at LeBreton Flats been completed?
The remediation project has been completed for the new section of Wellington Street, the Canadian War Museum site, Booth Street from Fleet Street to the Bronson Channel, and the first phase of residential development east of Booth Street. The partial remediation of land west of Booth Street and south of Wellington Street to permit archaeological work to proceed has been completed.
How were the river, and the ecosystems in its proximity, protected?
The timing of the work avoided both fish-spawning and bird-nesting seasons, and grassy areas were cut short in order to control nesting by ground-dwelling animals and birds. The NCC is committed to ensuring that any inadvertent disturbance to natural habitats would in all instances be followed by restorative measures.

Similarly, the Ottawa River was protected primarily because work near the waterway was avoided; however, erosion control measures such as flow checks and controlling groundwater flows were taken to prevent possible contamination through drainage. In addition, silt fences acted as filters to counter the disturbance of sediment, dust and in-filling.
How were the pathway systems and roadways changed?
The pedestrian and bicycle pathways to and from LeBreton Flats are much improved, since they are better linked to the NCC and the City of Ottawa's existing system of pathway networks. Also, the planned pathway along the Ottawa River is a very inviting and attractive addition that reaffirms Ottawa's place as a premiere destination for recreational sport activities.
The roadways at LeBreton Flats have been improved to further promote pedestrian and cyclist safety. The Ottawa River Parkway has been realigned into a four-lane, shared-use roadway with ample room for sidewalks and street trees. Since the shared lane exceeds city guidelines, conditions for cyclists will be much safer; and curb extensions at intersections minimize pedestrian crossing time and safety risks. The new roadway features on-street parking that will benefit commercial activity while simultaneously serving as a buffer between pedestrians and traffic. A right-of-way of 40 metres will reserve land to expand the roadway, if and when it is deemed necessary. However, a four-lane roadway is more community-oriented than one with six lanes, and the effect on motorists in terms of commuter time is minimal.
How do I keep informed on changes to traffic patterns?
Before and during construction, you can obtain information by visiting Traffic Advisories section. Here, you will receive advance notice of what construction will be taking place, when it will be occurring and which routes present the best alternatives. Of course, announcements will be made through media traffic advisories.
What will the new residences be like?
LeBreton Flats will be a neighbourhood community with something for everyone, including affordable housing that will be ideal for students, families just starting out, or people with other short-term requirements. Townhomes with ground-level entrances will be designed to provide the dual purpose of homes with office/studio space. Dependent upon zoning, the opportunity may also exist for ground-floor dwelling units to be used as small galleries or arts-and-crafts studios.

Residential buildings in LeBreton Flats will be from four stories upwards. A pattern of courtyards and enclosed spaces are also envisioned for the Flats' residents as communal outdoor spaces besides the smaller, more personal outdoor spaces devoted to each unit. Landscaping elements such as trees, hedges and grade changes will serve as buffers to provide a sense of privacy for people living in the townhomes.
When will I be able to purchase/rent?
Construction is scheduled to begin by the end of 2006, with occupancy commencing within two years. Marketing began in the fall of 2005.
Will the community be family-friendly?
The revitalization of LeBreton Flats will provide residents, including families, with a neighbourhood with all or most of the amenities. Booth Street is intended to be the main shopping street with personal service and retail outlets so that most shops will be within walking distance. The improved system of linked pathways will allow for leisurely family activities such as bike riding, in-line skating or strolling. The nearby festival site will also be another convenient and welcoming spot where families can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
How accessible will retail space be to walk-in traffic? What are the parking provisions?
All retail space will be at street level and very accessible to walk-in customers. In addition, retailers will have the extra benefit of business coming from offices in their buildings aside from the community that will exist there. Moreover, there will be on-street parking that will further allow for the potential of outside customers.
Will there be much parkland left for public enjoyment?
In keeping with the rest of Ottawa, LeBreton Flats will also enjoy a fair amount of green space. The Riverfront, the festival site and the future park areas to the west of the site will represent about 40 percent of the total land of the Flats.
Will LeBreton Flats lose its significance as a festival site?
No. There will be a festival site to accommodate festivals and other events.
How can I find out more about the new Canadian War Museum?
Find out more about the museum at www.warmuseum.ca.
Why was a portion of the Ottawa River Parkway relocated?
The section of the Ottawa River Parkway that crossed LeBreton Flats was relocated from along the water's edge through the centre of the development, to serve both the cultural institutions to the north and the residential and commercial sectors to the south. It allows the NCC to extend the popular recreational pathway network along the river, offering pedestrians and cyclists complete access to the views and vistas along the water.
What will the new Wellington Street be like?
The boulevard is an extension of Wellington Street. It is a four-lane road divided by a median and has ample room for cyclists, as well as a lane on either side reserved for parking. It features wide sidewalks, trees and benches.
What work was done to reconstruct Booth Street?
The reconstruction of Booth Street from Fleet Street to the Bronson Channel is complete with new underground services and roadways with a shared bike lane, wide sidewalks and street trees. The remainder of Booth Street from Fleet Street to Albert Street will be reconstructed by the City of Ottawa as part of the North-South Light Rail Transit Project.
Will access to recreational pathways be changed?
The recreational pathway configuration now includes the pathway along the Ottawa River. The pathway from the Aqueduct inlet to Booth Street will remain open but the pathway from Booth Street to Pooley’s Bridge will be closed to permit construction.
Will canoeists and kayakers still be able to access the Tailrace?
The City of Ottawa has closed access to the Tailrace to undertake much-needed slope stabilization work to improve the safety of the facility.