Welcome to 2026 following a very busy 2025
Rideau-Rockcliffe councillor discusses what's in store this year
As we say goodbye to 2025 and hello to a new and exciting year, it’s clear that progress, partnership, and meaningful investment continue to define our community goals.
To say we have been busy is an understatement. This past year brought renewed infrastructure, expanded access to health care, and ongoing commitments to building a more equitable city. Together, we have set the stage for even more transformative work in 2026.
This December, I had the pleasure of celebrating the renewal of Hemlock Park, a $260,700 investment that introduced new swings, junior play equipment, an accessible swing, and a fitness circuit. It was a joyful day for families, and only the beginning of what’s ahead for our parks. In 2026, Alvin Heights Park will receive upgrades including double basketball keys, shade tables for the pool deck, a concrete ping-pong table, new benches, and, thanks to expanded scope, a full pool deck replacement, accessible ramp upgrades, and repairs to the pool building.
Momentum is also building with the Beechwood Avenue Public Realm Plan, which will guide future enhancements to sidewalks, cycling facilities, lighting, trees, benches, waste bins, and landscaping. Technical studies and design concepts progressed last fall, with broad public engagement set for early 2026. The city has allocated $1.5 million to advance the detailed design.
Gateway Speed Zones
Gateway Speed Zones will also be introduced in parts of Manor Park in 2026, standardizing residential speed limits at 30 km/h and improving neighbourhood safety.
Looking more broadly, council finalized the Transportation Master Plan Update in 2025, a document that will shape how we travel across Ottawa for the next 20 years. For Manor Park, this includes proposed continuous bus lanes on Montreal Road., new sidewalks around schools and parks, pathway enhancements, cycling safety upgrades, and parking-protected bike lanes on Beechwood. These investments will support safe, accessible, and sustainable transportation for residents of all ages.
Integrated road, sewer, and watermain renewals are planned for Arundel Avenue, Braemar Street, Farnham Crescent, Finter Street, Jeffrey Avenue, and Kilbarry Crescent. Once complete, residents will benefit from improved drainage, reduced risk of flooding, and more reliable infrastructure. These upgrades will make a noticeable difference during heavy rain or snowmelt.
Equity work
Alongside physical investments, equity work continues to move forward. As Council Liaison for Anti-Racism and Ethnocultural Relations Initiatives, I have been working closely with Black, racialized, and immigrant communities to support change where it is most needed. The city’s five-year Anti-Racism Strategy is well under way with 132 actions advancing improvements in employment equity, housing, economic development, health outcomes, and youth opportunities. Partnerships with organizations such as the African, Caribbean and Black Wellness and Resource Centre in Overbrook, and the Ottawa Black Coalition, continue to expand capacity for mental health supports, youth programs, and Black-led economic initiatives.
We also celebrated a major milestone just south of Manor Park with the opening of the Ottawa Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic at 214 Montreal Rd. Now accepting new patients daily, the clinic will eventually serve up to 4,000 residents across Wards 12 and 13, prioritizing those on the Health Care Connect waitlist and referrals from partners including the Montfort Hospital and nearby Ottawa Community Housing. This represents a meaningful step forward in improving access to primary care close to home, especially for families, seniors, and newcomers.
Community engagement
Most importantly, much like 2025, I believe 2026 will continue to be rooted in passionate community engagement. I truly value the moments I get to connect with residents. Whether we are aligned on an issue, celebrating a success, or solving challenges, representing you is a privilege, and I want to thank you for your trust, your energy, and your dedication to making our neighbourhoods welcoming, vibrant communities where people can live, work, and raise a family.
We achieved a great deal together in 2025, and there is so much more ahead in 2026. I look forward to continuing to build community with you.
As always, you can contact my office at rideaurockcliffeward@ottawa.ca or 613-520-2483. Subscribe to my newsletter at www.rideau-rockcliffe.ca.