Survey 4 Results: Our first impressions

Review of Special Event By-laws

Survey 4 Results

In June, we invited residents to provide their feedback on special events held on city streets. Our goal was to evaluate various aspects, including the impacts of traffic and parking restrictions, permit processes, how attendees travel to and from events and the level of support for food trucks and other mobile vendors.

Our First Impressions

Special events on city streets light up Ottawa with vibrancy and culture! The survey responses indicate that these events are overwhelmingly seen as positive contributors to the city’s lively atmosphere, with 92 per cent of respondents agreeing. Residents participate in a variety of activities, including sidewalk sales, block parties, parades, and running or cycling events. Festivals, food events, and unique celebrations are also popular. However, there are notable challenges, such as insufficient information about upcoming events and traffic impacts, with many relying on word of mouth, social media, and local news to stay informed. Additionally, there is a low response to using the city’s interactive traffic map, with only 25 per cent of respondents consulting it to plan their travel.

While a majority of respondents (68 per cent) have not been negatively affected by traffic impacts from special events, a significant portion (29 per cent) have experienced disruptions. Common issues include traffic delays, road closures, and longer commute times, particularly due to events like marathons and protests. Public transportation challenges and a desire for improved communication about temporary changes also contribute dissatisfaction.

In terms of transportation choices, walking remains the preferred mode of transportation for attending events, followed by cycling and personal vehicles. Safety at these events is generally perceived positively. However, logistical and cost-related barriers prevent many from organizing their own events. The support for food trucks at block parties is overwhelmingly positive, indicating a desire for more dynamic and convenient street events.

The survey results show that while special events on Ottawa’s city streets are highly valued due to their contributions to the city, there are notable concerns about traffic disruptions and low usage of the city’s interactive traffic map. Respondents highlight the need for more supportive and flexible city policies to encourage vibrant and inclusive events, with improvements in communication, infrastructure, and permit processes, while addressing safety, accessibility, and logistical challenges.

Background

This survey ran on Engage Ottawa from June 6, 2024, to August 29, 2024, and was promoted through social media posts and paid promotion on Facebook running from June 11, 2024, to June 20, 2024. In total, 170 residents completed this survey. The total number of responses for each question is reported beside the question. For convenience, individual responses are reported as both a total and a percentage.

Responses to open-ended questions have been reported in summary format. Individual responses have been cataloged and made anonymous for sharing with the project team and other City departments where appropriate.

Next Steps

A detailed analysis of survey results will occur over the coming months. This will include analysis through an equity, diversity, and inclusion lens that will utilize demographic data collected through the survey’s “Tell us about yourself” section. Full analysis will be provided when the project team reports to Committee and Council in early 2025.

Inquiries

If you have questions or comments about the survey results, please contact By-law Reviews at bylawreviews@ottawa.ca or 613-580-2424 ext. 29529.

Survey Results

Q1: Do you think special events on city streets positively contribute to the vibrancy and culture of Ottawa? (170 responses)

  • Yes: 156 respondents or 92 per cent

  • No: 7 respondents or 4 per cent

  • Uncertain/ No Opinion: 7 respondents or 4 per cent

Q2: In a typical year, what types of events on city streets do you participate in? (Check all that apply) (169 responses)

  • Sidewalk Sale: 107 respondents

  • Block Parties: 91 respondents

  • Parades: 86 respondents

  • Running or Cycling Events: 73 respondents

  • Demonstrations: 37 respondents

  • I do not attend special events: 17 respondents

  • Other (please specify): 23 respondents

Here are the key themes from the list of other events respondents reported participating in on City Streets:

  1. Festivals: This includes various cultural, community, and seasonal festivals such as the Chinatown Night Market, Ital Fest, the Fire & Ice festival and Canada Day celebrations.

  1. Food Events: Outdoor food festivals, patios, night markets, and events centered around food and dining.

  1. Fundraisers: Participation in charity walks and various advocacy fundraisers.

  1. Community Events: General community gatherings, art or craft fairs, and events on streets closed for summer activities, as well as unique events like Remembrance Day ceremonies, Wickedly Westboro, and street parties for Pride.

These themes highlight a vibrant mix of cultural, culinary, and community-focused activities that bring people together on city streets.

Q3: Are you well informed of upcoming Special Events on City streets? (169 responses)

  • Yes: 66 respondents or 39 per cent

  • No: 77 respondents or 46 per cent

  • Undecided/ No Opinion: 26 respondents or 15 per cent

Q4: How do you hear about traffic impacts related to special events on city streets? (Check all that apply) (168 responses)

  • Word of Mouth: 71 respondents

  • Facebook: 60 respondents

  • Mapping Apps (e.g., Google, Apple, Waze, etc.): 60 respondents

  • Councillor Newsletter: 57 respondents

  • Twitter: 48 respondents

  • Other (please specify): 37 respondents

  • Interactive Traffic Map: 28 respondents

  • Instagram: 27 respondents

  • Flyer, Information pamphlet (mail drop) : 20 respondents

Responses showed that survey contributors use various other methods to stay informed about traffic impacts related to special events on city streets. Many rely on radio, which was frequently mentioned, while others turn to local news sources such as TV news, newspapers, and online news sites. Some responses suggested social media and online platforms, including Reddit, also play a significant role. Community sources like association newsletters, condo boards, and flyers providing additional information were also mentioned. Additionally, some respondents mentioned experiencing traffic impacts firsthand as they occur.

Q5: Have you ever consulted the City’s interactive traffic map to plan your travel due to a special event? (170 responses)

  • Yes: 42 respondents or 25 per cent

  • No: 124 respondents or 73 per cent

  • No opinion: respondents or 2 per cent

Q6: Has a special event on the roadway negatively impacted you in the last 12 months? (170 responses)

  • Yes: 46 respondents or 27 per cent

  • No: 115 respondents or 68 per cent

  • Don’t recall: 9 respondents or 5 per cent

Respondents that answered “Yes” to question 7 were also asked:

Q7: In what ways have special events on City streets negatively impacted you? (Check all that apply) (46 responses)

  • Restricting mobility: 36 respondents

  • Noise: 15 respondents

  • Other (please specify): 13 respondents

  • Mental well-being: 12 respondents

  • Physical well-being: 4 respondents

  • Harassment or discrimination: 2 respondents

  • Loss of income: 1 respondent

Respondents reported several other negative impacts from special events on city streets. Traffic and street closures were a common concern, leading to congestion and delays. Many reported increased commute times and idling due to unexpected road closures. Public transit disruptions were frequently mentioned, with poor information on detours and insufficient alternative stops causing frustration. Parking problems, including tickets due to poor signage and blocked street parking, were also highlighted. Safety and security concerns arose from difficulties crossing streets during demonstrations and disruptive protests. General inconvenience was noted, such as late arrivals to work or events. Additionally, community impacts included overflow traffic in neighborhoods and the need for better traffic management and parking coordination. These themes underscore the various challenges and inconveniences that special events can cause for city residents.

Q8: Have you been negatively impacted by temporary no parking restrictions due to a special event? (167 responses)

  • Yes: 29 respondents or 17 per cent

  • No: 126 respondents or 76 per cent

  • Don’t recall: 12 respondents or 7 per cent

Respondents that answered “Yes” to question 8 were also asked:

Q9: Please briefly elaborate. (25 responses)

Key points from those who responded they have been negatively impacted by temporary no parking restrictions include:

  • Traffic Congestion: Many respondents mentioned increased traffic congestion, particularly in downtown areas like Old Ottawa South, Wellington and Queen streets.

  • Parking Difficulties: There were numerous complaints about the difficulty in finding parking, both for residents and visitors. This includes issues with poorly communicated parking restrictions and the impact on those with parking permits.

  • Impact on Daily Activities: Some respondents highlighted how these restrictions affect their daily activities, such as driving for a rideshare company, attending events, or visiting friends.

  • Accessibility Concerns: There were specific mentions of challenges faced by individuals with mobility concerns or those with small children.

  • Public Transportation: Several respondents expressed dissatisfaction with public transportation as an alternative, citing less convenience than driving.

  • Suggestions for Improvement: Suggestions included better communication about parking changes, providing alternative parking options, and considering the use of sidewalks for bike lanes to alleviate street congestion.

Overall, the responses reflect a significant impact on the daily lives of some residents due to temporary parking restrictions during special events.

Q10: Have you ever been negatively affected by the traffic impacts of special events on city streets? (168 responses)

  • Yes: 49 respondents or 29 per cent

  • No: 103 respondents or 61 per cent

  • Don’t recall: 16 respondents or 10 per cent

Respondents that answered “Yes” to question 10 were also asked:

Q11: Please briefly elaborate. (41 responses)

Key points from those who responded having been negatively affected by traffic impacts include:

  • Traffic delays and road closures: Many respondents mentioned minor delays and inconveniences caused by road closures and increased traffic volume during special events.

  • Specific road closures: The closure of Queen Elizabeth Parkway for cycling and other events was frequently mentioned, with some respondents noting it significantly impacts their commute.

  • Protests and demonstrations: These were highlighted as causing severe disruptions and anxiety.

  • Impact on daily commutes: Respondents reported longer travel times and difficulties getting to work or other destinations due to road closures and detours.

  • Public transportation issues: There were complaints about poor public transit options, especially in rural areas, and inadequate communication about temporary changes to bus routes.

  • Event-specific challenges: Events like marathons, festivals, and charity runs were noted for causing significant traffic congestion and making it difficult to navigate through neighborhoods.

  • Suggestions for improvement: Better coordination with construction, improved communication about road closures, and consideration of traffic impacts on a broader scale were suggested.

Overall, the responses reflect significant disruptions to daily life and travel for some residents due to traffic impacts from special events.

Q12: Please rank your preferred transportation choices when attending special events?

Rank 1 to 8, where “1” is the most preferred and “8” is least preferred. (169 responses)

Listed in order of average preference

  1. Walking or using a mobility device is the most preferred transportation option, with an average score of 2.45

  1. Cycling had an average score of 3.20

  1. Personal vehicle had an average score of 3.22

  1. OC Transpo had an average score of 3.41

  1. Taxi or rideshare (e.g., Uber, Lift, etc.) had an average score of 3.51

  1. E-scooter had an average score of 5.08

  1. I do not attend special events had an average score of 5.73

  1. Para Transpo had an average score of 6.25

Q13: How much do you agree with the following statement?

I feel safe attending special events on City streets (169 responses)

  • Definitely disagree: 5 respondents

  • Somewhat disagree: 6 respondents

  • Neither agree nor disagree: 12 respondents

  • Somewhat agree: 46 respondents

  • Definitely agree: 100 respondents

Q14: Have you organized a special event on City streets in the previous 12 months? (170 responses)

  1. Yes: 15 respondents or 9 per cent

  1. No: 155 respondents or 91 per cent

  1. Don’t recall: 0 respondents or 0 per cent

Respondents that answered “Yes” to question 14 were also asked questions 15 through 18:

Q15: What type of event(s) have you organized? (Check all that apply) (15 responses)

  • Sidewalk Sale: 1 respondent

  • Block Parties: 4 respondents

  • Parades: 6 respondents

  • Running or Cycling Events: 3 respondents

  • Other (please specify): 8 respondents

  • Demonstrations: 0 respondents

Respondents also highlighted organizing various other events, such as charity ice cream giveaways and fundraising walks, festivals, live music concerts, community activation events, and cultural celebrations.

Q16: For your special event, was it difficult to obtain insurance to meet the needs of the Special Events on City Streets by-law? (15 responses)

  • Yes: 3 respondents or 20 per cent

  • No: 12 respondents or 80 per cent

Respondents that answered “Yes” to question 16 were also asked:

Q17: Please briefly elaborate. (1 response)

The singular response to this question indicated a lack of support from the City.

Q18: Please indicate how much you agree with the following statements: (15 responses)

City staff were responsive to our needs

  • Definitely disagree: 1 respondent

  • Somewhat disagree: 0 respondents

  • Neither agree nor disagree: 0 respondents

  • Somewhat agree: 3 respondents

  • Definitely agree: 11 respondents

I was treated with respect

  • Definitely disagree: 0 respondents

  • Somewhat disagree: 0 respondents

  • Neither agree nor disagree: 1 respondent

  • Somewhat agree: 0 respondents

  • Definitely agree: 14 respondents

The permit process helped us manage traffic around our event

  • Definitely disagree: 1 respondent

  • Somewhat disagree: 3 respondents

  • Neither agree nor disagree: 2 respondents

  • Somewhat agree: 5 respondents

  • Definitely agree: 4 respondents

The permit process helped to reduce unintended impacts on the surrounding public

  • Definitely disagree: 1 respondent

  • Somewhat disagree: 1 respondent

  • Neither agree nor disagree: 5 respondents

  • Somewhat agree: 4 respondents

  • Definitely agree: 4 respondents

Barricades provided by the City were easily attainable

  • Definitely disagree: 2 respondents

  • Somewhat disagree: 0 respondents

  • Neither agree nor disagree: 8 respondents

  • Somewhat agree: 2 respondents

  • Definitely agree: 3 respondents

Respondents that answered “No” to question 14 were also asked:

Q19: Is there a reason that prevents you from organizing an event on City streets? (Check all that apply) (151 responses)

  • Not interested: 103 respondents

  • Cost of the event: 25 respondents

  • Cost imposed by the City (such as required traffic control, etc.): 32 respondents

  • Lack of volunteers: 18 respondents

  • Permit process: 42 respondents

  • Permit requirements: 36 respondents

  • Other (please specify): 13 respondents

Key themes from the other reasons preventing respondents from organizing events on city streets include:

  • Transportation issues: Poor transit options and too many cars driving/parking.

  • Awareness and knowledge: Unawareness of the possibility to plan an event.

  • Leadership and position: Not leading a group that would organize a street event.

  • Permit and support concerns: Risk of having permits pulled last minute and lack of city support to offset costs.

  • Safety concerns: Fear of counter demonstrations and violence.

These themes highlight the logistical, personal, and safety challenges that prevent some residents from organizing events on city streets.

Q20: Do you support allowing food trucks or other mobile vendors at block parties / street events? (170 responses)

  1. Yes: 164 respondents or 97 per cent

  1. No: 4 respondents or 2 per cent

  1. Uncertain/No opinion: 2 respondents or 1 per cent

Q21: Would you be more inclined to host a block party/ street event if you were able to have a food truck present? (170 responses)

  • Yes: 72 respondents or 42 per cent

  • No: 17 respondents or 10 per cent

  1. Uncertain/No opinion: 29 respondents or 17 per cent

  • I do not plan parties: 52 respondents or 31 per cent

Q22: Is there anything else you want to share about events on city streets with the Special Events Bylaw review team? (67 responses)

Survey respondents highlighted several key points about city street events:

  • Event frequency & promotion: There is a strong desire for more frequent events, along with better utilization of social media for effective promotion, specifically targeting transit users.

  • Regulations & infrastructure: Calls to reduce City regulations, especially for outdoor seating and permits. Suggestions include easing vending regulations for micro-businesses and simplifying the permit process.

  • Suburban events and infrastructure: Respondents suggest more suburban events with free admission and better bus transit consideration. Additionally, infrastructure improvements are suggested, such as more lanes, street shade, accessible platforms, bike racks, and porta potties. It is also suggested to utilize squares and green spaces instead of streets for these events.

  • Costs and support: High policing and street closure costs are barriers. Suggestions for funding opportunities to aid small organizers.

  • Safety and accessibility: Ensure events don’t block sidewalks and create designated ridesharing points. Better public transportation and reduced parking.

  • Communication and logistics: Improve communication about road closures and enhance event logistics with better parking, shuttles, and public bathrooms.

  • Event quality and noise management: Improve quality and organization of large events, manage noise levels, and minimize traffic impacts.

  • Approval process: There is a call to relax insurance and police presence requirements, making the approval process easier and more affordable. Positive feedback was given to staff for their support, but issues with special event parking and the lack of a shuttle program were highlighted.

  • Regulations and duration: Lower regulations and extend event durations.

  • Community connection: Small-scale, local events are valued for community connection, while larger events are seen as less beneficial due to drawing outsiders.

Overall, respondents call for more supportive and flexible city policies to encourage vibrant and inclusive events.

Q23: Would you like to help us by answering some questions about yourself? (164 responses)

  • Yes: 113 respondents or 69 per cent

  • No: 51 respondents or 31 per cent

Q24: How do you identify or express your gender? (Select all that apply) (112 responses)

  • Woman: 65 respondents

  • Man: 45 respondents

  • Transgender: 1 respondent

  • Non-binary: 2 respondents

Q25: Are you an Aboriginal/Indigenous person? (Select all that apply) (113 responses)

  • I am Métis: 1 respondent

  • I am Inuit: 1 respondent

  • I am First Nations: 0 respondents

  • No: 111 respondents

Q26: Are you a person with one or more disabilities? (112 responses)

  • Yes: 21 respondents or 19 per cent

  • No: 88 respondents or 78 per cent

  • Unknown: 3 respondents or 3 per cent

Q27: Are you a member of a visible minority group? (112 responses)

  • Yes: 22 respondents or 19 per cent

  • No: 87 respondents or 78 per cent

  • Unknown: 3 respondents or 3 per cent

Q28: Are you a member of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community? (112 responses)

  • Yes: 17 respondents or 15 per cent

  • No: 92 respondents or 82 per cent

  • Unknown: 3 respondents or 3 per cent

Q29: Which of the following describes you: (113 responses)

  • Not born in Canada and have lived in Canada for less than 5 years: 2 respondents or 2 per cent

  • Not born in Canada and have lived in Canada for over 10 years: 14 respondents or 12 per cent

  • Not born in Canada and have lived in Canada for 5 to 10 years: 5 respondent or 4 per cent

  • Born in Canada: 92 respondents or 82 per cent

Q30: Please indicate your age from the categories below: (113 responses)

  • Under 18: 0 respondents or 0 per cent

  • 18-34: 30 respondents or 27 per cent

  • 35-54: 54 respondents or 48 per cent

  • 55 to 69: 22 respondents or 19 per cent

  • 70 or older: 7 respondents or 6 per cent

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