Ontario announces new funding to revitalize downtown Ottawa, transform ByWard Market street into 'pedestrian-only' in the summer (CTV)
December 4, 2024 - CTV Ottawa
The Ontario government is investing $20 million into the revitalization of downtown Ottawa, including transforming William Street in the ByWard Market into a pedestrian-only street and developing a "cultural and entertainment district."
Premier Doug Ford and Mayor Mark Sutcliffe announced the new Ontario-Ottawa Deal in March, outlining $197 million over three years to support the city. The announcement included $20 million to "help revitalize the downtown area, but few details were announced until Wednesday.
The deal will see $11.8 million spent on enhancing the ByWard Market and transforming William Street into a permanent pedestrian-only street. The province says the funding will also make "ByWard Market Square into a seasonal street open to traffic and parking most of the year and pedestrian-only in the summer."
Construction is expected to be completed by the fall of 2026, ahead of the 200th anniversary of the ByWard Market in 2027.
"Ottawa’s downtown, including the ByWard Market, is vitally important to the local economy and quality of life for our residents," Mayor Mark Sutcliffe said in a statement. "This investment of $20 million from the Provincial Government is a boost to our revitalization efforts in the Market. This important funding will enhance the safety, vibrancy and economic growth of our downtown core."