Ontario Construction News staff writer
The provincial government will provide $20 million over the next three years to revitalize downtown Ottawa, a key initiative under the historic Ontario-Ottawa New Deal.
“Through our New Deal, our government is taking action to ensure Ottawa remains a premier destination for tourism and a safe, vibrant place for those who call it home,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Ontario’s minister of finance. “By working in partnership with the City of Ottawa, we are strengthening the national capital’s economy, creating jobs, and positioning Ottawa for long-term prosperity.”
The investment will support a series of projects designed to boost the safety, accessibility, and vibrancy of downtown Ottawa.
In addition, the province is investing $11.8 million over three years to transform William Street into a permanent pedestrian-only zone and enhance the ByWard Market. ByWard Market Square will become a seasonal street — open to traffic and parking during most of the year and pedestrian-only in the summer. The project is set for completion by the fall of 2026, in time for the ByWard Market’s 200th anniversary.
The funding also includes $3.85 million for street infrastructure improvements, including upgraded signage and other enhancements.
Also, $1.35 million will fund marketing and promotional campaigns aimed at raising awareness of downtown Ottawa, attracting new residents, and creating a cultural and entertainment district to be launched in 2026, as part of the city’s 200th anniversary celebrations.
“The downtown core, including the ByWard Market, is vital to the economic health of Ottawa,” said Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. “This investment provides a significant boost to our revitalization efforts, enhancing safety and accessibility while supporting growth in the local economy.”
Ontario’s investment is part of efforts to improve the city’s infrastructure, including an assessment of provincial ownership of Ottawa Road 174 and new projects to improve connections to the city’s suburban and rural areas.
“Ottawa is uniquely positioned as a hub of research and development in critical technologies, and this investment will ensure the city remains an attractive destination for businesses and innovators,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Together with Invest Ottawa, we are working to create new opportunities, good-paying jobs, and stimulate economic growth across the region.”
The Ontario-Ottawa New Deal is a landmark agreement that addresses the unique needs of Canada’s capital while driving sustainable growth. Ottawa’s growing population, expanding technology sector, and position as a gateway to Quebec and Eastern Canada make it an essential economic engine for Ontario.
As Ottawa prepares for the 200th anniversary of the ByWard Market in 2026, the $20-million investment is expected to transform the downtown core into a more attractive, accessible, and dynamic destination for residents and visitors alike.
