Mayor’s Message: Mark Sutcliffe
REVITALIZING OTTAWA’S DOWNTOWN is a top priority. It’s essential that we breathe new life into our city’s core. Just a couple of months ago, on March 5th, City Council approved the Economic Development Strategy, with a key focus on downtown and the ByWard Market.
I also want to thank the Ottawa Board of Trade for their exceptional work on their Downtown Action Plan. I look forward to thoroughly reviewing the plan and collaborating with all levels of government to realize our shared vision.
Since my campaign and throughout my tenure as Mayor, my goal for the downtown core has always been clear: our downtown must exemplify the best of Ottawa. It should be a place where businesses thrive, residents feel safe, and visitors are eager to explore.
Our objective is to revitalize downtown areas to boost economic activity and enhance long-term growth and resilience.
We want to simultaneously enhance cultural vibrancy, tourism, placemaking, livability, and safety. A key part of this vision includes supporting Ottawa’s vibrant music industry and the incredibly talented artists and professionals who have made Ottawa a music hub.
I am excited about the future and the possibilities ahead as we work together to revitalize our downtown. We have the chance to create remarkable spaces for future generations. A thriving downtown is crucial, not just for economic growth, but for the cultural and social structure of our community.
However, we know that we cannot do it alone. To address the challenges facing downtown, we must adopt a Team Ottawa approach and work collaboratively with all levels of government.
We have a unique opportunity to ensure that our downtown is not a place of vacant spaces and boarded-up buildings, rather a vibrant destination full of life and opportunities.
With collaboration and commitment, we can achieve this transformation. It’s the Team Ottawa approach. It’s the responsible approach. And it’s a vital approach.
Mark Sutcliffe, Mayor of Ottawa