Background

The ByWard Market Public Realm Plan was approved unanimously by City Council in January 2021, after over two years of planning and public engagement that included feedback from more than 2,300 people. The public engagement process was extensive and various engagement techniques were used to reach as many interested parties as possible. The feedback received during that study is summarized in seven “As We Heard It” reports. Through this public engagement the City heard that:

• The ByWard Market building and its surroundings were identified as a favourite place in the district due to its heritage, shops, food options, and liveliness.
• The desired vision for the ByWard Market’s future is one that is people-centric and prioritizes pedestrians. The dominance of motor vehicles and the amount of space they occupy within the Market was consistently cited as negatively affecting visitors’ experience of it. Specific examples of how to achieve this included: introducing wider sidewalks, more seating, more shade, beautiful pavers, narrower streets and more space for people.
• There is a strong desire to create a lively environment that includes more events, vending, seating, and places of relaxation.

City Council reaffirmed its commitment to the revitalization of the ByWard Market and Downtown recovery through the City of Ottawa’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan and the Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan. The ByWard Market is designated as a Special District under the City of Ottawa Official Plan. In addition, in 2023, City Council approved the creation of the ByWard Market District Authority as a Municipal Service Corporation with a mandate to steward the ByWard Market and its public spaces.

This iconic gathering place is where residents and visitors from around the world connect, explore, shop, and celebrate the heart of our city.

As one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Ottawa and the hub of the city’s commercial and tourism industries, it will be important that the new public spaces authentically reflect Ottawa’s history, culture, and aspirations, and that the ByWard Market remains a source of pride for Ottawans and Canadians.