Update from Councillor Cathy Curry
Parking around 180 Kanata Avenue– Our office continues to hear from residents about traffic and parking issues on Kanata Avenue, particularly in the area of the new apartment buildings at 150 and 180 Kanata Avenue. Concerns have been raised about vehicles parking along the side of the road, creating a narrow travel lane and making it difficult for drivers to safely navigate the area. We understand that permanent no-parking signage was approved and scheduled for installation; however, there have been delays in getting the signs in place. In the meantime, City staff have installed temporary no-parking signs to help address the situation and improve safety for all road users. We will continue to follow up with staff regarding the installation of the permanent signage and monitor the area for residents who continue to park there.
Littering in parks– As the weather warms up and more residents head outdoors to enjoy our parks, trails, and green spaces, I would like to remind everyone of the importance of keeping our community clean Our parks are shared spaces that everyone should be able to enjoy. Taking a few extra moments to dispose of garbage properly is helpful. If you notice overflowing garbage bins or other concerns, contact our office or the City’s 3-1-1 service so issues can be addressed as quickly as possible.
Contractor signs– As I mentioned last newsletter, I once again want to remind residents that under the City’s Signs on City Roads By-law, signs placed on City road allowances without permission are prohibited, including many of the signs used by businesses to advertise their services. We support small businesses, but these signs can create visual clutter, distract drivers, and in some cases interfere with pedestrian movement. Residents who notice unauthorized signs on City property can report them through 3-1-1.
Feeding Wildlife – I have had many emails over the years and more recently about people feeding wildlife either on their own property or in our city parks. There isn’t a nuisance feeding by-law yet, but please do not feed the pigeons, chipmunks, rabbits and other wildlife in our city parks. I have had reports that people are distributing peanuts on public property in an attempt to attract more wildlife for their photography or viewing pleasure. This is not safe for people or animals. To learn about why this is highly discouraged, please go to The importance of not feeding wildlife from the NCC.
Grass cutting – With all the rain, the grass is growing faster than ever. I have had people write to me concerned about the length of grass in certain parks and public areas. Definitely let us know if you see grass that needs to be cut or was missed when the City’s grass maintenance staff were in the area. While they are behind schedule, sometimes sections are missed and staff need to know about this. Thanks in advance for your help!
Speeding – There are certain streets where people tend to drive above the speed limit. If you know that there are specific times and dates where people tend to speed down a Kanata North street, let us know. We speak to police often, and they do ask us about which streets we are getting the most complaints about. We know that they have gone to these streets soon after and handed out tickets. Please let us know if you have any concerns about speeding on any particular streets.
A Reminder for Pathway Users – As more residents enjoy Ottawa’s multi-use pathways this summer, it’s a good time to remember that these pathways are shared spaces used by pedestrians, children in strollers, people using mobility aids, and cyclists of all ages and abilities. Please be courteous by staying to the right, using your bell or voice when passing, and only passing when it is safe to do so. The City also recommends a maximum speed of 20 km/h on multi-use pathways, with slower speeds in busy areas or where visibility is limited. A little patience and courtesy help ensure everyone can enjoy our pathways safely.