Three Core Streets Go Pedestrian-Only

06/10/2025

From mid-June to mid-October, short sections of MacLaren, Frank, and Florence Streets, where they intersect with Bank Street, will be temporarily converted into shared public spaces as part of the Street Seats pilot program.

Street Seats is part of the Centretown Street Safety and Revitalization Action Plan, which aims to improve the pedestrian experience, support local traffic calming, encourage community connection and gathering, and support small businesses along the Bank Street corridor.

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This is a release from the City of Ottawa:

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This summer, residents and visitors can enjoy:

More space to walk, sit, and socialize
Programming in collaboration with the Centretown Business Improvement Area (BIA)
A refreshed streetscape that prioritizes community uses

Traffic impacts:

MacLaren Street – east of Bank Street: Local vehicle access remains. Angled parking will be converted into public space for the season.
Florence Street – west of Bank Street: Local vehicle access will be maintained via the public laneway. The block between the laneway and Bank Street will become a public space for the season.
Frank Street – east of Bank Street: The street will be temporarily converted to two-way traffic to maintain local access. The block between private parking entry points and Bank Street will be used as public space for the season.

These spaces will be open only to pedestrians. Accommodations will be made for local vehicle traffic. Cyclists will be asked to dismount and walk their bikes through the affected spaces.

For updates, maps, and upcoming programming, visit engage.ottawa.ca for local events and activities, visit centretownottawa.ca.

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