Coventry Road Widening (Belfast Road to St-Laurent Boulevard) Environmental Assessment Study

Overview

Coventry Road is a two-lane road that carries traffic east-west between Vanier Parkway and St-Laurent Boulevard. The City of Ottawa has initiated a Schedule C Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Study and Functional Design for the widening of Coventry Road between Belfast Road and St-Laurent Boulevard following the 2023 Municipal Class Environmental Assessment. The proposed road widening is intended to address both present and future travel demand, encourage a modal shift toward sustainable transportation, and address the revitalization and equity-related goals of the Building Better Revitalized Neighbourhoods (BBRN) Initiative, which aims to improve the health, vibrancy, and livability of priority neighbourhoods.

The study area is illustrated in the key map below.

This study will:

• Analyze the need and justification for widening Coventry Road to four (4) lanes and improved active transportation facilities by identifying existing and future travel demand for all modes of transportation;
• Develop consistent active transportation facilities within the study limits;
• Assess options for improved access to St. Laurent Shopping Centre and St. Laurent Station;
• Identify preliminary costs and details for implementation; and
• Consult with the general public and stakeholders.

Study Process

The study is being conducted in accordance with Ontario's EA Act, fulfilling requirements as a Municipal Class EA process for a Schedule C project.

The City must evaluate alternative solutions, corridors and designs for the project, undertake public and agency consultation, assess the potential environmental effects of the Recommended Plan and identify measures to mitigate any such impacts.

The EA will result in a cost effective, context-sensitive, complete street functional design that accommodates all travel modes (walking, cycling, transit, autos and trucks), as appropriate; that is compatible with surrounding land uses and minimizes impacts on the surrounding environmental (social, natural/physical, and economic) conditions.

As part of the study process, an Environmental Study Report (ESR) will be prepared to document all activities and findings during the planning and design process, and to present the Recommended Plan. Once complete, the ESR will be placed on the public record and be available for review by the public and review agencies for a period of at least 30 calendar days. Following the public review period, the project will be considered to have met the requirements of the Municipal Class EA Process.