Context and Opportunities

Context

The site is on a point of land along the Ottawa River. It is east of Onigam Street and down a slope on a generally flat area at the water’s edge. The primary freshwater service pipes for the city ruins are under ground and parallel to Onigam Street buried in the slope.

The ruins are at the lower level, adjacent to the river and are fenced on all four sides.

Plan view air photo illustrating the general area of the property and the location of the heritage ruins

An asphalt service lane runs down the slope to the shoreline area.

The surrounding area has been planted with native plants along the north end of the site, while a wooded area of trees has grown up along the south end of the site. The rest of the site is open lawn and gravel areas.

The Hintonburg Pumphouse site is not large. It is approx. 0.45 hectares. NCC parkway lands with pathways separate the site from the main parkway corridor.

Plan view air photo showing the location of Onigam Street, the ruins, the high-pressure buried water mains, and the general location of the lower open area and paved lane to the open area.

The site is accessible on a quiet street that intersects the parkway and pathway with Slidell Avenue. The street passes north from the parkway though beautiful gates to the Lemieux Island complex.

Stone and iron gates on the street to Lemieux Island at the Ottawa River Parkway announces the interesting facilities and natural area beyond.


Stone and iron gates on the street to Lemieux Island at the Ottawa River Parkway announces the interesting facilities and natural area beyond


Geo-Ottawa plan view image showing location of the site

A view from Onigam Street to the ruins and the river.









Opportunities

While the site is generally accessible now, there are a great many benefits that are not fully realized in the inner-city place. The stabilization and preservation of the ruins and the improvements to the surrounding site with public use amenities and natural environmental measures will greatly enhance the role of this site in the city’s waterfront. The site provides some of the best views of the river and skyline. It can be a place for interpretation and commemoration of the many overlapping stories and histories. The site benefits from a natural and cultural context and existing activities.

Activities and Uses

The pumphouse lands are well located amid an area already busy with activities and is accessible on foot, by bike and by vehicle.

  • Along the Parkway – accessible by vehicle and bicycle from the parkway
  • Connected to pathways – a short distance off the multi-use pathway
  • Open public access – While the ruins are fenced off, this area is open year-round to the public.
  • Year-round use – The Kichi Sibi Winter Trail 16 kilometer groomed winter ski-trail
  • Whitewater activities – Ottawa City Rafting ends their trips at this location that starts at Britannia Beach.
  • Natural river bays with wildlife – the rock shores and islands attract many birds and animals.
  • Parking lot nearby – a small existing parking lot is convenient for users – especially those who may need to arrive by accessibility vehicles.

The Chief William Commanda Bridge and Multi-Use Pathway will soon to be completed and contribute to the diversity of activities in the area

Nearby parks and greenspaces including the renewed Laroche Park with active recreation facilities and a new community building. The picturesque parkway corridor also contributes to the context of public spaces and places

Views and vista from the ruins and site provided for beautiful views of the river, shoreline, bridges, and the downtown skyline – especially at sunset.



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