Better Ottawa Muni Panel: Transportation Master Plan Reaching the Finish Line
Jul 11, 2025
The discussion kicks off with insights into the city's Transportation Master Plan, exploring ambitious goals for sustainable transport by 2046. Controversy swirls around the proposed widening of the Airport Parkway, raising concerns over air quality and urban development. Financial transparency issues come to light in a dispute between builders and the city over hefty fees, while the implications of new housing strategies for asylum seekers reveal community tensions and evolving governance challenges. Innovative ideas for managing urban growth and supporting vulnerable populations are at the forefront.
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Transportation Master Plan Priorities
- The TMP prioritizes a $4.25 billion network over 21 years, which is more likely to be built than the $7.5 billion needs-based network.
- Currently, sustainable mode share is 43%, and the TMP projects 48% by 2046, falling short of the Official Plan's 50% target.
Airport Parkway Widening Concerns
- The Airport Parkway widening is planned primarily due to anticipated growth of 60,000 new residents in Southeast Ottawa.
- However, this plan includes areas not yet in the urban boundary, highlighting inconsistency in aligning infrastructure with current development permissions.
Alta Vista Corridor's Uncertain Future
- The northern part of the Alta Vista Transportation Corridor, intended to connect hospital to the 417, has been canceled due to traffic congestion issues.
- The southern part remains but is unlikely to be built, despite fees being collected from new homeowners for it.