THE NATIONAL CAPITAL COMMISSION: WORKING TO IMPROVE UNIQUE PUBLIC PLACES

As the largest landowner in Canada’s Capital Region, the National Capital Commission (NCC) cares for and protects vital public places that are unique to our nation’s symbolic, natural and cultural heritage. The NCC continuously improves these assets to ensure that they remain a legacy for future generations.

Here are some of many exciting projects that the NCC is currently working on.

Nepean Point redevelopment

A historic 1.27-hectare site situated behind the National Gallery of Canada, Nepean Point was last developed for Canada’s centennial in 1967. The NCC is currently redeveloping Nepean Point to create a lively, 21st century park, in the geographic heart of the Capital.

For anyone seeking to experience Ottawa’s natural picturesque surroundings, the site offers a panoramic vantage point of the Ottawa River with clear sightlines toward the Capital’s main landmarks, including the Fairmont Château Laurier, the Parliament of Canada, the Supreme Court of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History.

In January 2021, the final site design was approved, and the main construction will begin in spring 2021. The work includes the construction of a new pedestrian bridge, which will provide access to Nepean Point from Major’s Hill Park. The design also includes the rehabilitation of the perimeter wall and creation of a landscape ha-ha feature that will offer spectacular views of the Capital. The project is expected to be completed by late spring 2023.

Sussex Courtyards rehabilitation

Spanning four housing blocks within the historic ByWard Market area, the Sussex Courtyards feature one of the Capital’s oldest neighbourhoods. The courtyards, which have been preserved and developed as part of our architectural heritage, provide a unique urban experience in Canada’s Capital.

The Sussex Courtyards are high-traffic, mixed-use areas that link many retail spaces and restaurants, and are surrounded by NCC heritage buildings. Rehabilitation work will allow for the restoration and further integration of the character-defining heritage features of this historic area, as well as inspire opportunities for animation within the downtown core.

The rehabilitation work is expected to start in 2022, and the NCC will work in collaboration with stakeholders to minimize the impacts of construction on their operations.

Sussex Courtyards rehabilitation

Westboro Beach area improvements

Westboro Beach is a key hub on the south shore of the historic Ottawa River. Its revitalization represents a major milestone in the ambitious and collaborative effort to develop a new nine-kilometre riverfront park connecting LeBreton Flats to Mud Lake.

Drawing on the rich and diverse feedback provided by hundreds of participants through two rounds of public consultations and stakeholder engagements, we’ve developed a design aiming to create a vibrant and active area that will improve the quality of life of residents, and enhance the experience of visitors.

In 2022, the NCC will construct the south side parking lot and services, as well as the parkway intersection and realignment by the City of Ottawa’s LRT contractors. Tendering for the design implementation and construction of the new Westboro Beach pavilion and landscape will be undertaken throughout 2021 and 2022.

The final design will be presented to the NCC Board of Directors for approval in fall 2021, with construction expected to start in summer 2022.

Westboro Beach area improvements

Working with the NCC

The NCC welcomes the opportunity to work with new suppliers and contractors. If you are interested in offering your services, please visit https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/business/contracting-with-the-ncc.