Councillor reaffirms opposition to Kettle Island bridge proposal
From the desk of Rideau-Rockcliffe Councillor Rawlson King
As your city councillor, my role is to advocate for the best interests of our community, ensuring that decisions made today will benefit Ottawa residents for generations to come. It is with this responsibility in mind that I reiterate my firm opposition to the proposed Kettle Island bridge.
This project, which has been resurfaced yet again despite years of public resistance, is not a priority for our city. It fails to align with our sustainable transportation goals, risks harming our communities, and represents a misallocation of resources that could be better spent addressing pressing local needs.
Proponents of the bridge argue that it will alleviate truck traffic on King Edward Ave., a notorious bottleneck that endangers pedestrians and clogs downtown streets.
Truck traffic impact minimal
However, studies have repeatedly shown that the impact of a Kettle Island bridge on truck traffic would be minimal. A 2021 report, commissioned by the National Capital Commission (NCC) and conducted by the IBI Group, found that only 15 percent of King Edward truck traffic would be diverted by 2050.
This means that, even with a new bridge, the majority of most heavy trucks would continue through downtown, leaving the core problem unresolved.
Moreover, the concept of “induced demand” suggests that building a new bridge to increase capacity would simply generate additional traffic volumes, leading to more congestion.
Instead of solving the truck traffic issue, the bridge would shift single-vehicular traffic to Ottawa’s east-end neighbourhoods, including Manor Park, Rockcliffe Park, and Vanier.
Residents in these areas are rightfully concerned that their quiet streets would become plagued by noise, pollution, and safety risks.
It is for this reason that residents are supportive of the recent federal government investment in transit. The city will receive $180 million over 10 years, starting with annual payments of $18 million from 2026 to 2036. It is this type of investment — rather than a new bridge — that residents need.
The Kettle Island bridge does not belong in that future. It’s time to say no — once and for all.
Environment
The environmental consequences of constructing a new bridge at Kettle Island also cannot be ignored.
The project would disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife habitats, particularly in the ecologically sensitive areas surrounding the Ottawa River. The destruction of green spaces and the potential contamination of waterways would have long-term repercussions for our environment. It would also undermine our city’s commitment to sustainability and climate action.
Additionally, the bridge would have a profound impact on nearby communities. Increased traffic, noise, and air pollution would diminish the quality of life for residents. This would have particular impact on seniors in long-term care facilities and patients at the Montfort Hospital.
These health risks are unacceptable, especially when alternative solutions exist that would not compromise the well-being of our residents.
‘Staggering’ cost
At nearly $2 billion, the estimated cost of the Kettle Island bridge is staggering.
It is essential to ask whether this incredible sum is the best use of taxpayer dollars. In my view, the answer is a resounding ‘no.’ Ottawa’s priorities should focus on improving and expanding our public transit infrastructure, addressing the housing affordability crisis, and tackling urgent social issues such as homelessness and the opioid epidemic.
The history of the Kettle Island bridge proposal is one of repeated failures. Each attempt has been thwarted by strong public backlash. The fact that the federal government is once again pushing this project, despite clear evidence of its shortcomings, demonstrates a disregard for the voices of Ottawa residents.
As a city councillor, I am committed to representing the interests of our community. The Kettle Island bridge is not the right solution for Ottawa. It fails to address the root causes of traffic congestion, poses significant environmental and health risks. It also represents a misallocation of funds that could be better spent on pressing local priorities.
Together, let’s send a clear message to the federal government. Ottawa deserves sustainable, community-focused solutions — not a costly and divisive bridge that benefits few at the expense of many. Let us focus on building a city that prioritizes the well-being of its residents through sustainable development, protects the environment, and invests in a future that works for everyone.
The Kettle Island bridge does not belong in that future. It’s time to say no — once and for all.
As always, you can contact my office by email at rideaurockcliffeward@ottawa.ca or by phone at 613-580-2483. Please subscribe to my newsletter at www.rideau-rockcliffe.ca.