Location: Bank Street (Kitchener Avenue to Johnston Road), including the Bank Street Bridge and connection to the Banff‑Ledbury neighbourhood
Project Type: Active Transportation Infrastructure – Pedestrian & Cycling Improvements (Transportation Master Plan Priority Project)
Developer/Lead Agency: City of Ottawa – Transportation Planning & Design
Project Overview
As part of the City’s Transportation Master Plan (TMP), a network of active transportation projects was identified to address missing pedestrian and cycling links across Ottawa. This list was developed through public consultation, my office’s advocacy, and a city‑wide network review, with Council approving the first project list in 2023 and updating it in 2025.
After heavy advocacy from my office, the Bank Street Over Rail Project has now been selected as one of the priority active transportation projects.
This project advances the City’s goals of improving pedestrian safety, providing direct and accessible connections, and creating safe, continuous cycling facilities.
Local Context
Bank Street is a major arterial road carrying high traffic volumes and serving nearby commercial, transit, and residential areas. The project corridor from Kitchener Avenue to Johnston Road is adjacent to:
- Retail and commercial services
- The Greenboro LRT Station
- The Banff‑Ledbury neighbourhood
Key existing challenges include:
- No accessible pedestrian connection from Banff‑Ledbury to the Bank Street bridge
- Residents have created informal desire paths, indicating a strong need for a formalized connection
- No existing cycling facilities within the project limits
- However, new facilities are being built north and south as part of broader Bank Street renewal projects
Introducing dedicated cycling and pedestrian facilities will significantly improve local safety, accessibility, and network continuity.
Project Details
The City is planning to construct:
1. New Cycling Infrastructure
- Protected bike lanes and cycle tracks along Bank Street
- New cycling facilities over the Bank Street bridge
2. New Pedestrian Connection
- A formal pedestrian and cycling link between Banff‑Ledbury and the Bank Street bridge
- This connection will offer safe access where none currently exists
3. Roadway Modifications
To support the new active transportation elements, the following roadway changes are proposed:
- Raised crossing at the Bank Street Loop for both cyclists and pedestrians
- Removal of the existing right lane, requiring vehicles to merge onto Bank Street before Kitchener Avenue
- This aims to reduce vehicle speed and improve crossing safety
- Realignment of the southbound Bank Street Loop to include a raised bicycle and pedestrian crossing with a yield requirement for vehicles
- Southbound bike lane near Johnston Road will remain curbside through the intersection
These modifications improve sightlines, reduce conflict points, and enhance safety for vulnerable road users.
Current Status
Phase: Detailed Design (Public Consultation Complete)
Progress Update:
A public consultation was held in September 2025. Insights from residents and stakeholders are now being incorporated as part of the ongoing detailed design process.
Timeline
- Public Consultation: Open House and virtual information session Completed in September 2025
- Detailed Design: Currently underway
- Construction: To be scheduled following completion of design and budget confirmation
What’s Next
Upcoming Actions:
- Completion of detailed design drawings
- Preparation of construction staging and traffic management plans
- Additional community updates prior to construction
Community Involvement
Residents will continue to receive updates through my office as the project progresses toward construction.
Questions or Comments:
Learn More: Bank Over Rail Project
File Lead: Laura Hagerman – laura.hagerman@ottawa.ca
