SURP 824 Report_v4 comp Main Report

RE-IMAGINING THESIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY:A LINEAR WATERFRONT PARKFOR CANADA’S CAPITALDominionStationTunney’s PastureIsland Park DriveMud LakeQueen’s School ofUrban and RegionalPlanning Project CourseDecember 2014

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAYA WATERFRONT LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALByElizabeth Bang, Ibrahim Dia, Daniel Downey, Dhilan Gunasekara, Dilys Huang,Himanshu Katyal, David Ringuette, Molly Smith & Alia TullochSURP 824 Project CourseDecember 19 th 2014School of Urban and Regional PlanningQueen’s UniversitySCHOOL OFUrban andRegional Planning

The contents of this document do not necessarily represent theviews and policies of the National Capital Commission. The contentsrepresent solely the advice and views of the Queen’s University Schoolof Urban and Regional Planning authors as part of the SURP 824Project Course.

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALSURP 824Project at a Glance“Re-Imagining the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway”Queen’s School of Urban and Regional PlanningDecember 19 th , 2014This project is the result of three months of workfrom nine students in Queen’s University’s Schoolof Urban and Regional Planning, engaged bythe National Capital Commission in order to reimaginethe Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway.Comprised of several elements, from researchand public engagement to conceptual designto implementation and maintenance plans,this report details the processes that led to aninnovative vision of the Parkway as a linear park;a focal point in Ottawa not only for the locals, butfor all Canadians, and indeed international visitorsto Canada’s Capital.The linear park, as we see it, should be a CapitalVenue for commemorations, celebrations, eventsand festivals. This report aims to emphasise thecharacteristics of our design that will help to attractthe users who will make the Parkway a special place;more of a destination than a pleasant way to reachsome other place. In this spirit, exciting featuressuch as public art, expansion of recreationalpathways and amenities to facilitate education atthe Mud Lake area have been added, all in orderto give people a reason to use and care about theParkway.Executive SummaryParkway BackgroundThe Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway runs along thesouth bank of the Ottawa River for approximatelynine kilometres from Mud Lake to LeBreton Flats. TheParkway is an important part of Ottawa’s built heritage.First suggested in 1903 by Frederick Todd, Olmsted’sprotegé, it was built in 1961 as part of Jacques Gréber’sPlan for the National Capital. The Parkway is bounded byparkland on either side and delivers stunning views tothose who traverse its length. Surrounding communitiesenjoy the recreational pathways that run parallel to theroadway, as well as hidden gems such as WestboroBeach and Remic Rapids. The roadway itself currentlyfunctions as a divided four-lane thoroughfare, with anoften-exceeded speed limit of 60 km/h and carries asmany as 2,100 vehicles per hour at peak times.While the Sir John A Macdonald Parkway continuesto be the beautiful scenic drive it was intended to be,there are several opportunities that could be seizedto improve the Parkway. Reducing traffic, expandinggreenspace, involving the surrounding communities,and focusing on the Parkway as a focal point of Canada’sCapital all helped to guide the team’s vision for the reimaginedSir John A. Macdonald Parkway.Gréber’s 1950 Master Plan for the National Capital.Cycling along the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway’s recreationalpathway.I

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALImagine...The year is 2039, you’re walking east along the OttawaRiver shoreline of the SJAM Parkway, heading forCanada’s Parliament. The busy pathway bustles withwalkers, joggers, people with strollers, skate boarders,and more.As you exit the Mud Lake conservation area, yousee a signpost that welcomes you to the Sir John A.Macdonald Park, Canada’s Capital Park. Beyond thesign, you see a tree-lined cycling way full of cyclists of allages and some on their commute and others amblingalong leisurely, taking in the beautiful views of the riverand beyond to the Gatineau shoreline.Across the parkway median, you can catch glimpsesof red mapled mature trees lining the Parkway. As youadvance closer, you notice several areas to safely crossthis scenic parkway.All day long, throughout your pleasant stroll, you noticesigns of care and public activity along the corridor –from public art pieces to groves of trees, easy to readsigns and clear posts to mark gateways to neighbouringcommunities. Throughout the different areas, you seegroups of people picnicking, playing catch, pushingkayaks into the river. The route seems to spell out thehistory of the area, with overt interpretive panels andmore subtle characteristics like pavilions that seemreminiscent of Ottawa’s old industrial mills.As the sun is setting behind you, and you finally reachthe terminus of the Parkway, standing on the lawn ofthe War Museum, you see the sun as it hits the PeaceTower, lighting Parliament Hill. Turning around, yousee the sun setting over the green expanse of thePerspective of our design for a Mikinàk Point Pavillion.II

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALParkway, rays glimmering off the river as the crowdsdwindle; truly, this is a postcard moment and a site tobe shared and enjoyed by Ottawans, and Canadiansfrom sea to shining sea.Current ConditionsToday, the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway, formerlyknown as the Ottawa River Parkway, is a busy andimportant thoroughfare transporting people from thewest end of the City of Ottawa and Gatineau to thedowntown core of Canada’s Capital. The busy fourlane,60 km/h divided roadway carries as many as 9,300vehicles and up to 10,400 occupants over the course ofa weekday. It also carries a significant number of buses,becoming a veritable transitway at peak hours.The other component of the Parkway is the park itself.A multi-use recreational pathway system runs betweenMud Lake and the National War Museum, givingpedestrians and cyclists a safe, separate route to calltheir own. Along this recreational pathway system, andaccessible from the road, there are some activity nodessuch as Remic Rapids and Westboro Beach, which drawpeople in. There are also stunning views from both theroadway and the recreational pathway system alongthe entire length of the Parkway.The contemporary SJAM Parkway is a natural gatewaywhich does not rely on cultural features to draw inusers. It separates automobile uses from active uses,and usually keeps pedestrians away from the roadway.While these points count in favour of the Parkway insome ways, in other ways they can be a detriment, forexample the recreational pathway system being sharedbetween pedestrians and cyclists is unsafe, especiallyconsidering the speeds at which many of the cycliststravel. Furthermore, the stark separation of the useshighlights the lack of safe crossings from the urbanside of the Parkway to the natural side; this lack ofpermeability could be preventing some people fromusing the Parkway to its fullest extent.Multi-use trail at Remic Rapids.Traffic during rush hour creates a barrier for water access and canbe visually obstructive.The reliance on natural features has led to a corridorthat feels bare in some places. New amenities andfeatures will help to attract new segments of park users.It is important to consider the types and intensities ofdesired use in the re-imagining process.What we see on the SJAM Parkway today helps us todetermine what we want to see tomorrow. While it is abusy thoroughfare, it is important to put the focus onthe movement and enjoyment of people, and not onthe expressway nature of today’s roadway; otherwise,residents may not see the problem when inevitablepressure to widen the corridor and add more lanescomes. The future of the Parkway depends on theactions of today.Precedents ResearchWhile it is important to examine the conditions of theSJAM Parkway, it is also important to seek inspirationfrom other parks and roadways from Canada andaround the world. Through in-depth research, overthirty precedent case-studies have been examinedin order to draw lessons for the SJAM Parkway.Among the 30 parks and parkways researched wereIbirapuera Park in São Paulo, Brazil; Holyrood Park inEdinburgh, Scotland; Stanley Park in Vancouver; theGeorge Washington Memorial Parkway, which runsfrom Virginia to Washington, DC; and, the PromenadeSamuel-De Champlain in Québec City. We were alsoinformed by the reconstruction of Queen’s Quay on theToronto waterfront.From the above examples and several more, somegeneral lessons were learned and some specificIII

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALcharacteristics were noted. One of the key lessons isthat parkways are fragile and are subject to expansionuntil there is no longer a park to drive through, withonly pavement from one edge of the corridor to theother. Other general lessons are that parkways can beused to tell a story through space and that the journeymatters. Some of the more specific characteristics thathelped to inform our design can be seen in the photosthroughout this report.The Promenade Samuel-De Champlain was a riverfront park inVille de Québec. As visitors stroll along beside the river, they arebarely aware of the roadway at the left of the image.Vision“To create a public space that represents who weare as a country and a people, which celebrates thediversity of our landscapes and peoples, and whichshowcases the natural beauty of Canada’s capitalcity. To create a signature public space that drawspeople to it, residents and visitors alike, and allowsCanadians from coast-to-coast to feel at home.”Our vision for the SJAM Parkway is intended to bea vision for the Capital, and indeed all of Canada. Itwas built through research, design charrette session,public consultation, and stakeholder interviews byour teamand synthesis of more extensive publicconsultation conducted by the NCC.Design FeaturesGateway Features (Western and Eastern Nodes)Public ArtParkway AmenitiesElevated Wooden BoardwalkEducational SignageLandscapingMikinàk Point PlaygroundLocal EventsMaple AvenueProgrammingView Corridor ProtectionPedestrian CrossingsNeighbourhood GatewaysWayfinding and SignageWestbound Lane ConversionGeometric Green PathCycling InfrastructureWading Pool and Skating RinkRiver Wall and Seating AreaLightingShort Term(within 5 years)Implementation PlanOur vision was constructed around four major goals- Identity, Community, Environmental Sensitivity, andRecreation. Our design was informed based on thesefour goals, with more specific objectives during the reimaginationof the SJAM Parkway.Medium Term(6 - 10 years)Long Term(more than 10 years)IV

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALConclusionThe SJAM Parkway is a valuable asset to Canada’sCapital. It has a lot of potential, and there are manyways to re-imagine it in the future as a focal point,not only for Ottawans, but for all Canadians whenthey visit the city. It exists as a gateway to Parliament,the seat of government in our great country, and itsgrandeur and beauty should reflect its importance asthat gateway. Simultaneously, real-life considerationsfor nearby residents must be made through offeringamenities and programming that will draw them to theParkway as regular users. Giving residents a sense ofownership over the Park will make them more likelyto defend it from future development. Safety shouldalso be a serious concern; it is important that users feelsafe and comfortable when they are on the Parkway. Allthese considerations and more have been taken intoaccount during the design process, with the vision ofthe SJAM Parkway as a place people will want to visit,a destination that people will wish to share with theirloved ones, a shining symbol of the grand, diverse andbeautiful culture and country in which we live.Postcard with a perspective of Maple Avenue, a proposed signature featurealong the re-imagined Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway.V

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALAcknowledgementsThe project team would like to thank:Arto Keklikian and Sylvie Lalonde for lending theirexpertise and providing constant encouragement aswell as guidance throughout the course of the project.We are proud to call them adjunct professors.Stephen Willis and Lucie Bureau for engaging ourteam throughout the course of the project.The Core Team at the National Capital Commission forproviding resources, their expertise, and constructivefeedback.Dr. David Gordon, for his supervision, expertise,and mentorship over the course of the project. Wealso acknowledge his constant encouragement andcoaching during our most pressing moments.The National Capital Commission for allowing theQueen’s University School of Urban and RegionalPlanning, as well as our project team, the opportunityto participate in the re-imagining process of the SirJohn A. Macdonald Parkway.Dr. Robert Fishman, for lending your expertise in thearea of historical parkways and their evolution, as wellas engaging with our team at the charrette.Michael von Hausen, for the valuable insights andfeedback you provided our team.Dr. Patricia Collins, for taking the time to give ourproject team feedback and guidance.Jo-Anne Tinlin and Angela Balesdent, for theiradministrative and logistical support both at SURPand in the field.We would also like to thank the following organizationsfor engaging with our team during the course of theproject, whether at the charrette, stakeholder interviews,or final presentation. Your feedback, comments, andknowledge of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkwayhelped inform our re-imagining process, research,vision, and concept designs. Our team learned a lotfrom your various backgrounds and relationship withthe Parkway, and your enthusiasm for the re-imaginingof the Parkway also inspired us over the course of theproject:• National Capital Commission• Bike Ottawa• Champlain Park Community Association• City of Ottawa• Heritage Ottawa• Mud Lake Biodiversity Project• Ottawa Bicycle Lanes Project• Ottawa River Runners• Public Works and Government ServicesCanada• Regina Public School (Mud Lake Educator)• Rideau Valley Conservation AuthorityVI

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALTable of ContentsExecutive Summary..................................................................................................................................................... IAcknowledgments .....................................................................................................................................................VIList of Figures .................................................................................................................................................................VIIList of Maps ..........................................................................................................................................................................XList of Acronyms ...........................................................................................................................................................XIQueen’s School of Urban and Regional Planning Project Course.....................................................XIIProject Team.......................................................................................................................................................................XII1.0 INTRODUCTION2.0 METHOD1.1 Overview.......................................................................................................................................................... 1-11.2 Location and Significance.......................................................................................................................1-11.3 History................................................................................................................................................................1-21.4 Existing Conditions & Surrounding Land Uses...............................................................................1-32.1 SWOC Summary................................................................................................................................................................................2-12.2 Parkway Precedents Summary.............................................................................................................................................2-32.3 Public Engagement Summary...............................................................................................................................................2-93.0 A VISION FOR THE PARKWAY3.1 “Canada’s Parkway”........................................................................................................................................................................3-23.2 Goals & Objectives ...........................................................................................................................................................................3-33.3 Key Themes..............................................................................................................................................................................................3-63.4 Guiding the Concept Design: Natural to Urban Framework.........................................................................3-74.0 THE SJAM PARKWAY, RE-IMAGINED4.1 Key Features..........................................................................................................................................................................................4-1Westbound Lane Closure..............................................................................................................................................4-1Gateways.....................................................................................................................................................................................4-1Crossings and Pathways.................................................................................................................................................4-3Public Art..........................................................................................................................................................................................4-3Connections to the Water..............................................................................................................................................4-54.2 Feature Site Plans..............................................................................................................................................................................4-7Mud Lake Site Plan...............................................................................................................................................................4-7Mikinàk Point (Champlain Bridge) Site Plan................................................................................................4-9Chaudière Lookout (Parkdale Loop) Site Plan........................................................................................4-154.3 Programming......................................................................................................................................................................................4-195.0 DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORKIdentity........................................................................................................................................5-1Community..................................................................................................................................5-1Environmental Sensitivity............................................................................................................5-1Recreation...................................................................................................................................5-16.0 IMPLICATIONS AND CONCLUSIONSAPPENDICESAppendix A: Existing ConditionsAppendix B: Fieldwork ChecklistAppendix C: SWOC Analysis by Parkway SegmentAppendix D: Policy AnalysisAppendix D1: Policy Analysis MatrixAppendix E: Precedents Evaluation CriteriaAppendix E1: Evaluated PrecedentsAppendix F: CharretteAppendix F1: Charrette InvitationAppendix F2: Charrette AgendaAppendix F3: Summary of Charrette FindingsAppendix G: Stakeholder InterviewsAppendix G1: Letter of Information and Consent FormAppendix G2: Interview QuestionsAppendix G3: Summary of Interview ResponsesAppendix H: Design and Implementation FrameworkAppendix I: Design Guidelines, Implementation Plans, and Management StrategiesAppendix J: Final PresentationGLOSSARYWords that are bolded and italicized are glossary terms and are located in the glossaryat the end of this report.VII

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALLIST OF FIGURESFigure 2.4 Finding a balance between recreation and shorelineprotection along the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway(SURP 824 Project Team, 2014a).Figure 2.18 Dilys Huang and Elizabeth Bang leading a design andvisioning exercise during the October 2014 charretteat the NCC (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).Figures not cited throughout the report are the creationof the SURP 824 Project Team.Figure 2.5A fall day along the George Washington MemorialParkway, Washington, D.C. (National Park Service,2014).Chapter 3Chapter 1Figure 1.1Location of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway(National Capital Commission, 2014).Figure 1.2 View of Parliament and the Ottawa River , 1896(BRAY Heritage, 2010).Figure 1.3 Timber Slide at Chaudière Falls (Bronson Family -Library and Archives Canada, PA-147886, 1890-1900).Figure 1.4Figure 1.5Image of Chaudière Falls situated alongside the SirJohn A. Macdonald Parkway, 1826 (Gréber, 1950).Richard Bennett’s General Plan of Street Systemshowing Ottawa’s parks, playgrounds, andwaterways, 1915 (Federal Plan Commission, 1915).Figure 1.6 Renaming the Ottawa River Parkway the Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway, 2012 (Plamondon, 2012).Figure 1.7Chapter 2Figure 2.1Figure 2.2Figure 2.3Neighbourhood profiles adjacent to the SJAMParkway, 2014 (GeoOttawa, 2014).Bends and curves reveal gorgeous panoramic scenicviews along the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway(SURP 824 Project Team, 2014a).Fast-moving commuter presence along the Sir JohnA. Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team,2014a).Many opportunities for more official water accessalong the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824Project Team, 2014a).Figure 2.6 Cycling path on Ocean Boulevard, Brooklyn, 1908(Lyon, 2014).Figure 2.7Figure 2.8Figure 2.9An expressway-like segment of Ocean Boulevard withmultiple pedestrian barriers, Brooklyn, NY (Google,2014).Auto-oriented segment of Storrow Drive, Boston,Massachusetts (t55z, 2013).Pedestrian amenities along the Promenade Samuel-De Champlain waterfront, Québec (Arch Daily, 2008).Figure 2.10 Re-design concept for Toronto’s Queens Quay(Waterfront Toronto, 2014b).Figure 2.11 Temporary beaches spring up each summer in Paris(Le Tourville Eiffel, 2014).Figure 2.12 One of the largest outdoor ice rinks in Europe:Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh, Scotland(VisitScotland, 2014).Figure 2.13 A pedestrian and cyclist pathway in Ibirapuera Park,Sao Paulo, Brazil (Christensen and Morsbøl, 2012).Figure 2.14 Temporary beaches spring up each summer in Paris(Le Tourville Eiffel, 2014).Figure 2.15 Ibrahim Dia and Dhilan Gunasekara presentingprecedents research during the October 2014charrette at the NCC (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).Figure 2.16 Alia Tulloch and David Ringuette presenting a SWOCanalysis during the October 2014 charrette at theNCC (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).Figure 2.17 Daniel Downey and Himanshu Katyal leading adesign and visioning exercise during the October2014 charrette at the NCC (SURP 824 Project Team,2014b).Figure 3.1 Our project team synthesizing precedent findings andour NCC charrette takeaways through our own minicharrette (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).Figure 3.2 A design draft from our team’s mini charrette (SURP824 Project Team, 2014b).Figure 3.3Figure 3.4Figure 3.5Vision development (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).Canadian pride on display near Remic Rapids, SirJohn A. Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team,2014a).Promenade Samuel-De Champlain, Québec (Greffard,2008).Figure 3.6 Monument to Fallen Diplomats, Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway (MB-one, 2014).Figure 3.7Figure 3.8Figure 3.9Maple leaf detail on the Water’s Edge Promenade,Queen’s Quay revitalisation, Toronto (DTAH, n.d.).While the Parkway may be a resource for thecommunities adjacent to it, those same communitiesmay themselves be a resource for the Parkway. Thissign from the Mud Lake area bears a promise madeby local students and educators to care for the areaand its wildlife (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014a).Movies on the Beach at Westboro Beach. Duringthe charrette and stakeholder interviews, it becameclear that Westobo Beach is a much-loved focal pointalong the Parkway (gozzygirl, 2012).Figure 3.10 Winnipeg’s annual warming hut competition attractsinterest from architects all around the world andgives residents of Winnipeg another reason to getout on the ice and celebrate winter (Warming Huts,2012).VIII

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 3.11 This photograph from Margaret Island illustrateshow successful water features can be as focal points(About Budapest, 2013).Figure 3.12 In the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, a little boylearns just how big the wing span of some species oflocal birds can get (Brooks, 2013).Figure 3.13 Cross-country skiing in Gatineau Park, Québec(National Capital Commission, 2014a).Figure 3.14 Kayaking on the Ottawa River (City of Ottawa, 2014).Figure 3.15 During Sunday Bikedays, parkways around Ottawaare closed to vehicular traffic and opened up forcyclists, runners, walkers, and rollerbladers (Callan,n.d.).Figure 3.16 Theme hierarchy for our design concept of the SirJohn A. Macdonald Parkway.Figure 3.17 Preserved historic 19th century walled garden,Maplelawn Garden in Ottawa (National CapitalCommission, 2014b).Figure 3.18 Segments of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkwaywhich may benefit from bioswales (SURP 824 ProjectTeam, 2014a).Figure 3.19 Segments of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkwaywhich may benefit from bioswales (SURP 824 ProjectTeam, 2014a).Figure 3.20 Natural to Urban concept for the Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway.Chapter 4Figure 4.1 Conceptual drawing detailing the movement along,to, and out of the SJAM Parkway.Figure 4.2Figure 4.3Perspective of proposed crossings and pathways.Overview of the three feature site plans of Mud Lake,Mikinàk Point, and Chaudière Lookout.Figure 4.4Figure 4.5An example of a tactile interpretation panel showingbutterfly metamorphosis with braille (WildwoodStudios LLC, 2007).An outdoor classroom at the Epping Forest FieldCentre in Loughton, UK, was used as inspirationfor the an outdoor educational area at Mud Lake(Tripadvisor, 2009).Figure 4.6 Functional analysis of the Mud Lake area.Figure 4.7 Site plan of the Mud Lake area.Figure 4.8 Perspective of proposed gateway feature at MudLake.Figure 4.9 Perspective of proposed elevated boardwalk in theMud Lake area in the winter season.Figure 4.10 Functional analysis of Mikinàk Point.Figure 4.11 Site plan of Mikinàk Point.Figure 4.12 Perspective of proposed Maple Avenue alongMikinàk Point.Figure 4.13 Mikinàk Point playground, a proposed low-intensityplayground.Figure 4.14 Proposed Mikinàk Point Park Amenity Pavilion.Figure 4.15 Potters Field Park Pavilion in London, UK wasdesigned to create a ‘charred timber’ appearance,similar to the facade of the proposed ChaudièreLookout building (First Year Studio T, 2010).Figure 4.16 A river wall with steps leading to the water increasesaccess and interaction with the Ottawa River, as seenby this example from Québec City (Commission de lacapitale nationale du Québec, 2008).Figure 4.17 Elevation of the proposed Chaudière Park Pavilionwhich includes the river wall seating features as wellas washroom facilities and cafe.Figure 4.18 Perspective of the proposed ice skating rink in thewinter season. In the summer season, it becomes awading pool.Figure 4.19 Proposed landmark seating laid out in a geometricpattern that uses the landscape as art.Figure 4.20 Shakespeare in the Park at High Rock Park, New York(Dziemianowicz & Anglis, 2014).Figure 4.21 Sir John A. Macdonald’s Birthday celebration inKingston, Ontario (SALON Theatre Productions,2014).Figure 4.22 Guided nature walk at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum (Judge, 2001).Chapter 5Figure 5.1Chapter 6Figure 6.1Broad implementation timeline which outlines eachproposed design feature as well as an estimatedimplementation time frame.A proposed postcard of one of the top ten “mustsee”destinations in Ottawa - the re-imagined SirJohn A. Macdonald Parkway.IX

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALLIST OF MAPSMaps not cited throughout the report are the creation ofthe SURP 824 Project Team.Chapter 1Map 1.1 Land uses surrounding the SJAM Parkway, 2013(National Capital Commission, 2013).Map 1.2Pedestrian and recreational pathways along the SirJohn A. Macdonald Parkway, 2014. The neighbourhoodsalong large streets of the Parkway have little pedestrianaccess to the Ottawa River (Downey, 2014; Base MapSource: National Capital Commission).Chapter 4Map 4.1Map 4.2Suggested locations of proposed major and communitygateways (Base Map Source: National CapitalCommission GIS Data).Suggested additional crossings and locations for publicart along the SJAM Parkway.X

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALLIST OF ACRONYMSCCNIUCNNCCOICROWPWGSCRVCASJAMSWOCSURPSURP 824Commission de la capitale nationaleInternational Union for the Conservation of NatureNational Capital CommissionOttawa Improvement CommissionRight-of-WayPublic Works and Government Services CanadaRideau Valley Conservation AuthoritySir John A. MacdonaldStrengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and ChallengesSchool of Urban and Regional PlanningSchool of Urban and Regional Planning Project CourseXI

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALQueen’s School of Urban andRegional Planning ProjectCourseThis final report is the culmination of the Land Use andReal Estate Project Course at the School of Urban andRegional Planning (SURP) at Queen’s University. Thiscourse allows students an opportunity to work alongsideindustry professionals, both in the private and publicsector, as well as to practice the application of theoriesand skills in the planning industry. SURP was engagedby the National Capital Commission for this projectinvolving the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway along theOttawa River in the City of Ottawa. The content of thisreport reflects the opinions of Queen’s SURP and willinform the SJAM Linear Park Plan.This project course involved background researchgrounded in literature as well as empirical evidence, inaddition to data analysis and public outreach involvinga design charrette and stakeholder interviews. The skills,techniques, and theories applied in this project coursewere acquired as well as enhanced through the Masterof Urban and Regional Planning program at SURP.SCHOOL OFUrban andRegional PlanningProject TeamOur project team consists of nine unique individuals withbackgrounds ranging from landscape architecture to civilengineering, and hometowns spanning both of Canada’scoasts, India, and Australia. The diversity in experienceand culture brought forth by our project team memberswill hopefully result in dynamic and refreshing planningrecommendations for the National Capital Commissionand its Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway project.Top Row (left to right): Sylvie Lalonde, DhilanGunasekara, Arto Keklikian, David Ringuette, IbrahimDia, Molly Smith, Daniel Downey, and Dr. David Gordon.Bottom Row (left to right): Himanshu Katyal, DilysHuang, Elizabeth Bang, and Alia Tulloch.XII

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL1.0 INTRODUCTIONThe National Capital Commission (NCC) has engagedQueen’s University School of Urban and RegionalPlanning for the re-imagining of the Sir John A.Macdonald (SJAM) Parkway riverfront corridor as alinear Capital Park. It is one of the NCC’s planningpriorities and the focus of our 2014 Land Use and RealEstate project course (SURP 824). The overall objectiveof the SURP 824 project course is to re-imagine andinspire change to the nine kilometre stretch of theSJAM Parkway as a linear park by developing andrecommending actions to put the “park” back into the“parkway”.1.1 OverviewThe purpose of this report is to provide a comprehensiveoverview of the research, analyses, vision, and ideasassociated with the transformation of the SJAM Parkwayfor the NCC. This project provides a unique green spacefor the Capital with visual and physical connections tothe Ottawa River. Its linear configuration consists of aseries of linked spaces that include trails, landscapedareas for active and passive activities, unique views andvistas, water activities, and cultural features. It will drawpeople to the river’s edge.This report highlights research that was conductedon the SJAM Parkway, followed by a comprehensiveoverview of the existing conditions of the site. A detailedmatrix of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, andchallenges of the SJAM Parkway as well as the policiesFigure 1.1 - Location of the Sir John A Macdonald Parkway (National Capital Commission, 2014).relevant to the site are presented. The report alsoprovides a summary of the stakeholders charrette andconducted interviews. Drawing from this backgroundinformation, a vision and four principal goals – identity,community, environmental sensitivity, and recreation– serve as the foundations for the overall concept forthe Parkway and three selected sectors. The reportconcludes with a set of design guidelines, policyrecommendations, broad implementation strategies,and a maintenance plan.1.2 Location and SignificanceThe SJAM Parkway is located along the southwesternedge of the Ottawa River and is displayed in Figure 1.1.Stretching nine kilometres along the Ottawa River fromMud Lake to LeBreton Flats, the site contains a fourlanedivided parkway; environmental areas which offeropportunities for ecological education and a chanceto instill environmental stewardship in communitiesadjacent to the corridor; multi-use pathways alongthe riverfront and urban side; and, recreationalamenities which include Westboro Beach, picnic tables,and resting areas, as well as viewpoints points such asKitchissippi Lookout. The SJAM Parkway is adjacentto many neighbourhoods, including Britannia Village,Laurentian, Hintonburg-Mechanicsville, Westboro,and Island Park, with some pedestrian linkagesfrom these communities to the site. It is a place ofhistorical and cultural significance, where features1-1

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALof Canadian imagery and identity are displayed andenhanced. Furthermore, the SJAM Parkway aims todeliver a “parkway experience” to residents, citizens,as well as international visitors through ample scenicopportunities which reveal themselves in a crescendoeffect while traveling along the site’s winding roads andpathways.was produced in 1903. Todd looked to capturethe picturesque essence of Ottawa, with its gothicarchitecture and rough-hewn landscape, as a capital city(Figure 1.4). He cautioned against attempting to overtlyemulate Washington, citing the distinct differencein both existing city form and natural environment1-21.3 HistoryThe City of Ottawa, chosen as Canada’s capital in 1857,was little more than an unprepossessing lumberingtown in the 19 th and early 20 th centuries (Erickson, 2004)(Figures 1.2 and 1.3). According to the 1915 Report ofthe Federal Plan Commission on a General Plan for theCities of Ottawa and Hull, the “city had been laid out onno plan, and it developed on no plan. Industries grewup where they would. The railways carried on activitiesmostly as they liked” (pp. 20-21).The late 1800s saw the beginning of the end of theneglect of Canada’s capital. In 1893, Prime MinisterWilfrid Laurier promised, “to make the city of Ottawa asattractive as possibly could be; to make it the centre ofthe intellectual development of this country and aboveall the Washington of the north” (Ottawa EveningJournal, 1893, p. 3). To this end, Laurier appointed theOttawa Improvement Commission (OIC) to create,“a city worthy of a capital, and a capital worth of thenation” (Gordon & Osborne, 2004, p. 623).Landscape architect Frederick G. Todd’s PreliminaryReport to the Ottawa Improvement CommissionFigure 1.2 - View of Parliament and the Ottawa River, 1896 (BRAYHeritage, 2010).Figure 1.3 - Timber Slide at Chaudiere Falls, late 1800s (BronsonFamily - Library and Archives Canada, PA-147886, 1890 -1900).Figure 1.4 - Image of Chaudiere Falls situated alongside the SirJohn A. Macdonald Parkway, 1826 (Gréber, 1950).between the two (Todd, 1903, pp. 2-3).Todd proposed the creation of a series of parkways,natural settings, and open urban vistas to help organizeand unify the image of the capital (Todd, 1903, pp.6-7). Although Todd’s Preliminary Report was notimplemented by the OIC, his plan for an interconnectedparks system composed of large natural parks,suburban parks, boulevards, parkways, waterway parks,and city parks was adopted in every subsequent plan.Both the 1915 Report of the Federal Plan Commissionon a General Plan for the Cities of Ottawa and Hull and

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 1.5 - Richard Bennett’s General Plan of Street Systemshowing Ottawa’s parks, playgrounds, and waterways, 1915(Federal Plan Commission, 1915).Figure 1.6 - Renaming the Ottawa River Parkway the Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway, 2012 (Plamondon, 2012).Gréber’s 1950 Plan for the National Capital includeprovisions for comprehensive and continuous parkssystems connected by parkways (Gordon, 2002) Figure1.5).The OIC was replaced by the Federal District Commissionin 1927, which was in turn succeeded by the NCC in 1958.The NCC was established to implement the Gréber Plan,and to develop, conserve, and improve the NationalCapital Region in accordance with its significance asthe seat of the Canadian government (National CapitalCommission, n.d.). In order to realize Gréber’s Plan,the NCC acted quickly after its formation to assemblethrough expropriation the acreage necessary to createparks, parkways, and other capital improvements(Gordon, 2001; Pollock-Ellwand, 2001).A parkway along the Ottawa River was first proposed byGréber. Completed in 1961, the SJAM Parkway, originallyknown as the Ottawa River Parkway, was constructedalong the edge of the river on former rail lands andon lots that were previously private riverfront housing.The Parkway was designed to function as a scenic drive,and commercial vehicles were prohibited. In 2005,the Canadian War Museum opened on LeBreton Flatsat the easternmost end of the Parkway. Constructionrequired the realignment of a portion of the Parkway.Most recently, the Parkway was renamed in 2012 to theSir John A. Macdonald Parkway, in honour of Canada’sfirst prime minister (CBC, 2012) (Figure 1.6).1.4 Existing Conditions &Surrounding Land UsesThis section is intended to provide a brief overview ofthe SJAM Parkway and its surrounding context. For amore in-depth description of existing conditions andsurrounding land uses, please refer to Appendix A.Snapshot of OttawaOttawa accounts for about two-thirds of Canada’sCapital Region population estimated at 1.28 millionpeople. It is home to approximately 883,000 people,125,350 of whom live in Bay, Kitchissippi, and Somerset,the three municipal wards adjacent to the SJAM Parkway(Ottawa, 2014c).According to the City’s growth projections, the numberof people living in Ottawa is expected to grow to1.1 million by 2031. These new residents will requireemployment opportunities, transportation andcommunity services and amenities, housing, and openspace (Ottawa, 2014b).The City of Ottawa’s 2012 Employment Survey notesthat the federal government and high-tech industrieshave remained as the City’s largest employers overthe years (Ottawa, 2012). Most of the employment hasconcentrated in the Central Area, which is bounded bythe Ottawa River to the north, Rideau River to the east,Highway 417 to the south, and Preston Street to thewest. Commuting patterns have shown growing traveltrends to and from the Central Area and outer suburbanneighbourhoods as employment opportunities and1-3

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALKING EDWARD±IAIARapidesDeschênesRapidsMcCONNELLLacMudLake0 0.5 1kmD'AYLMERDE LUCERNE!(!(!( !( C!(IA!( CA !( C!( !( !( CC!( C !( CRapidesLChaudière!( CRapids!( !( A£ n !( C!(!( C !( A IA!(!(!( C !(!( C !( C £n !(!(!( A !(!( !( !( !( IAIA!( A !( £ nRapidesIARemic!( !(IA!( £!( CIA ÆI !( RapidsA !(!(!( !( CC!(!( C IA!( !( £ n IA!(!(!(£ n!(!(IA!(!(!(!(!(!(!( !(O T T AW A R I V E R - R I VI È R E D E S O U T A O U A I SRICHMONDCARLINGMAITLANDALEXANDRE-TACHÉCHURCHILLQUEENSWAYTRANSITWAYKIRKWOODISLAND PARKCLYDEWELLINGTONMERIVALEPARKDALEHOLLANDBASELINEFISHERSOMERSETPRESTONBOOTHMEADOWLANDSSLATERALBERTBRONSONLacDowsLakeLYONHERONPRINCE OF WALESLAURIERBANKKENTIACOLONEL BYÆIMETCALFEO'CONNORIAIA IAHOG'S BACKSir John A. Macdonald ParkwayPromenade de Sir-John-A.-MacdonaldLegend • Légende!( A Access Points (3)Points d'accès (3)!( A Signalized Access Points (4)Points d'accès signalisés (4)!( L Limited Signalized Access Points (1)Points d'accès limités signalisés (1)!( £ n!(Major Transit Stops (6)Arrêts majeurs de transport en commun (6)Pathway Access Points (28)Points d'accès aux sentiers (28)!( C Cultural Assets (56)Biens cultrels (56)IAÆINCC ParkwayPromenade de la CCNNCC Recreational PathwaysSentiers Récréatifs de la CCNAlternate RoutesRoutes alternativesShoreline InteractionInteraction avec la bergeTransitTransport en communTransit RequestDemande pour transport en communTransitwayTransitwayNational AttractionsAttractions nationalesMajor BuildingsBâtiments majeursNCC Corridor LandsTerrains de corridor de la CCNNCC LandsTerrains de la CCNOther Federal LandsAutres terrains fédérauxNCC ParkingStationnement de la CCNNCC Picnic AreasAires de pique-nique de la CCNLands Surrounding The CorridorTerrains entourant le corridorCommercialCommercialEmploymentEmploisLow-rise ResidentialRésidentiel (hauteur faible)High-rise ResidentialRésidentiel (hauteur élevée)IndustrialIndustrielRecreationRécréatif2014/12/09Map 1.1 - Land uses surrounding the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway, 2013 (National Capital Commission, 2013).1-4

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALbusinesses have grown in the Central Area over time(Ottawa, 2012). This has greatly affected roadwaycapacities, including the SJAM Parkway, as routes havebecome dominated by regular commuters over timewho are looking for quick and uninterrupted accessto the Central Area. Economists predict a rebound inemployment over the next three years, despite a recentdownward trend, which could mean more growth in theCentral Area (Ottawa, 2014a). The survey further notesthat as of 2012, approximately 40% of total employmentwas located within walking distance (600 metres) fromrapid transit stations (Ottawa, 2012). The rapid transitstations that are situated adjacent to the SJAM Parkwayinclude Lincoln Fields Station, Dominion, Westboro,Tunney’s Pasture, Bayview, and LeBreton.Housing statistics through the 2011 Censusdemonstrates that single-detached houses continue todominate the housing landscape in Ottawa (StatisticsCanada, 2014). Field work and physical observationshave shown the neighbourhoods abutting the Parkwayinclude a mix of mid- to high-rise apartments as wellas detached dwellings. A push for intensificationthroughout the City of Ottawa, which includes newresidences and rapid transit stations and designatedmixed-use centres, has been stipulated in Amendment150 of the City of Ottawa’s Official Plan (2013). TheTunney’s Pasture Master Plan, for example, looks todevelop an employment retail hub with a capacityfor approximately 22,000 to 25,000 employees andresidences for over 9,000 people (Public Works andGovernment Services Canada, 2014).Snapshot of Surrounding Land UsesA diverse range of land uses exist within the vicinity ofthe SJAM Parkway (Map 1.1). These uses include:• Parks and open space;• Woodlands, wetlands, watercourses, and ravines;• Restaurants, retailers, and other commercial uses;• Industrial uses and employment lands;• Institutional uses (e.g. Canadian War Museum); and,• Residential uses.The predominant land use located along the southernboundary of the SJAM Parkway is residential. The SJAMParkway is adjacent to six neighbourhoods along theOttawa River, ranging from urban to inner suburban.They include LeBreton Flats, Hintonburg-Mechanicsville,Island Park, Westboro, Woodroffe-Lincoln Heights, andBritannia Village (Figure 1.7). There are several low-riseresidential areas adjacent to the corridor, especiallyin neighbourhoods situated to the west of Tunney’sPasture. However, other areas, such as those aroundLeBreton Flats Station, Parkdale Avenue, DominionFigure 1.7 - Neighbourhood profiles adjacent to the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway, 2014 (GeoOttawa, 2014).1-5

XYXYXYRE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALStation, the intersection of Richmond Road and the SJAMParkway, and Lincoln Fields Station, feature apartmentbuildings and higher-density residential dwellings.Recreational PathsSir John A. Macdonald Parkway Recreational Paths and TrailsAlso notable are the pockets of natural landscapesalong the SJAM Parkway that contain environmentalfeatures designated as Valued Ecosystems and NaturalHabitats in the NCC Capital Urban Lands Plan (draft,2014). As a fulfillment of a commitment in the NCC’sEnvironmental Strategy, these highly valued ecosystemsare to be protected. They also respect the frameworkof protected management area categories developed bythe International Union for the Conservation of Nature(IUCN) that are designated as Urban Natural Featuresin the City of Ottawa Official Plan (2013) and identifiedas Environmental Protection Zones in the Zoning Bylaw(2008). The largest environmentally-significant areawithin the study area is Mud Lake and the surroundingBritannia Conservation Area. Other locations includedensely treed and vegetated areas near the ChamplainBridge, Remic Rapids, and Lazy Bay.Current policies related to the SJAM Parkway prohibitaccess from commercial vehicles, such as charteredbuses and transport vehicles, without prior consentfrom the NCC. The NCC and the City of Ottawa havean agreement to allow use of the SJAM Parkway forbus rapid transit (BRT) until 2031. The current OttawaCity (OC) Transpo network utilizing the SJAM Parkwayconsists of five unique bus routes – the 93, 94, 95, 96and 97, which operate with alternating schedules andminimal wait times. Buses arrive as frequently as 8minutes apart in peak hours and as infrequently as anhour apart on Sundays, so the parkway has a constantstream of large buses in peak periods.0 0.75 1.5 3KilometresLEGENDParkwayNCC Recreational PathwaysNCC Hiking TrailsMap 1.2 - Pedestrian and recreational pathways along the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway, 2014. The neighbourhoods along large streets ofthe Parkway have little pedestrian access to the Ottawa River (Downey, 2014; Base Map Source: National Capital Commission).¯1-6

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALPedestrian and cycle pathways are the foundations forattracting active and recreational users to the SJAMParkway. The corridor does this well by providing twoformal, paved, and divided multi-use pathways alongeither side of the roadway in some sections (Map 1.2).Users range from pedestrians, dog walkers, and families,to rollerbladers and cyclists. Along the SJAM Parkway,the pedestrian pathways are linked to various enclaves,which offer scenic seating off the main path. Bothpathways follow the bends and curves of the OttawaRiver with varying median widths, vegetated buffers,and grade separations. Moreover, various recreationaltrails and informal pathways provide individuals with agreater sense of urban escape. The current connectionsbetween the two pathways are limited to a fewcontrolled pedestrian crossings and underpasses.The SJAM Parkway also contains a number of significantlandmarks and focal points, including the following:• Mud Lake;• Kitchissippi Lookout;• Westboro Beach;• Remic Rapids; and• The Prince of Wales and Champlain Bridges.ReferencesBRAY Heritage. (2010). Christ Church Cathedral Revitalization.Ottawa.Bronson Family - Library and Archives Canada, PA-147886. (1890-1900). Timber Slide at Chaudiere Falls. Ottawa, Ontario,Canada.Canadian Broadcasting Corporation [CBC]. (2012, August15). Ottawa River Parkway renamed after Sir John A.Macdonald. Retrieved from CBC: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-river-parkway-renamed-after-sirjohn-a-macdonald-1.1131806Downey, D. (2014). Recreational Paths. Kingston, Ontario, Canada.Erickson, D. L. (2004). The relationship of historic city form andcontemporary greenway implementation: a comparisonof Milwaukee, Wisconsin (USA) and Ottawa, Ontario(Canada). Landscape and Urban Planning, 68(2-3),199-221.Federal Plan Commission. (1915). Report of the Federal PlanCommission on a General Plan for the Cities of Ottawaand Hull. Ottawa: Federal Plan Commission.geoOttawa. (2014). Retrieved from City of Ottawa: http://maps.ottawa.ca/geoottawa/Gordon, D. (2001). Weaving a modern plan for Canada’s capital:Jacques Gréber and the 1950 plan for the national capitalregion. Urban History Review, 29(2), 43-61.Gordon, D. (2002). Frederick G. Todd and the origins of the parksystem in Canada’s capital. Journal of Planning History,1(1), 29-57.Gordon, D., & Osborne, B. S. (2004). Constructing nationalidentity in Canada’s capital, 1900-2000: ConfederationSquare and the National War Memorial. Journal ofHistorical Geography, 30(4), 618-642.Gréber, J. (1950). General Report: Plan for the National Capital.Ottawa: National Capital Planning Service.National Capital Commission. (2013, July 30). Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.National Capital Commission. (2014). Capital Urban Lands Plan,draft. Ottawa: National Capital Commission.National Capital Commission. (n.d.). About the NCC. Retrievedfrom National Capital Commission: http://www.ncc-ccn.gc.ca/about-nccOttawa, City of. (2008). Zoning By-law 2008-250 Consolidation.Ottawa: City of Ottawa.Ottawa, City of. (2012). Ottawa Employment Survey 2012.Retrieved from City of Ottawa: http://documents.ottawa.ca/sites/documents.ottawa.ca/files/documents/employment_survey.pdfOttawa, City of. (2013). Official Plan Amendment 150 to theOfficial Plan of the City of Ottawa. Ottawa: City of Ottawa.Ottawa, City of. (2014a, February). Economic development update- February 2014. Retrieved from City of Ottawa: http://ottawa.ca/en/business/business-resources/economicdevelopment-initiatives/economic-development-updatefebruaryOttawa, City of. (2014b). Growth Projections for Ottawa 2006 to2031. Retrieved from City of Ottawa: http://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/get-know-your-city/growth-projectionsottawa-2006-2031Ottawa, City of. (2014c). Population and households (occupieddwellings) estimates by ward, year end 2012. Retrievedfrom City of Ottawa: http://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/getknow-your-city/statistics/population-and-householdsoccupied-dwellings-estimates-ward1-7

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALOttawa Evening Journal. (1893, June 19). The Washington of theNorth. Ottawa Evening Journal, p. 3.Plamondon, B. (2012, August 14). Column: The spirit ofJohn A. endures. Retrieved from Ottawa Citizen:http://www.ottawacitizen.com/opinion/op-ed/Column+spirit+John+endures/7095996/story.htmlPollock-Ellwand, N. (2001). Gréber’s plan and the ‘Washingtonof the North’: Finding a Canadian capital in the face ofrepublican dreams. Landscape Journal, 20(1), 48-61.Public Works and Government Services Canada. (2014). Tunney’sPasture Master Plan (TPMP). Retrieved October 13, 2014,from Public Works and Government Services Canada:http://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/biens-property/pdpt-tpmp/index-eng.htmlStatistics Canada. (2014). Census Subdivision of Ottawa, CV.Retrieved from Statistics Canada: http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2011/as-sa/fogs-spg/Factscsd-eng.cfm?Lang=eng&GK=CSD&GC=3506008Todd, F. G. (1903). Preliminary Report to the Ottawa ImprovementCommission. Ottawa: Ottawa Improvement Commission.1-8

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL2.0 METHODThe process of re-imagining the SJAM Parkway involveda number of steps. In addition to the initial work ofunderstanding the history and physical context ofthe site, field work and a thorough policy review wereconducted. These activities informed the subsequentStrengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Challenges(SWOC) analysis. In order to deepen the team’sunderstanding of what does (and does not) make agood linear park, 30 parkways and parks from aroundthe world were also examined and evaluated, providingimportant lessons for the process. Lastly, the teamengaged with the public through a design charretteand interviews with stakeholders in order to find outwhat it is that people value about the Parkway today,and what they hope it will be in the future.2.1 SWOC SummaryStrengths identified included the following:• Views over the Ottawa River toward Gatineau(Figure 2.1);• Water access;• Gateway perspectives of Parliament;• The curves and bends that actively present a senseof excitement as one travels along the Parkway;• The environmental services provided by the Parkway,including erosion and stormwater management;• Unique ecological systems that attract visitors;• The multi-use nature of the pathways, which providea separate, attractive, and safe space for cyclists,rollerbladers, dog walkers, and pedestrians; and,• Cultural assets and heritage features, including thePrince of Wales rail bridge.A detailed Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, andChallenges (SWOC) analysis consisting of thoroughpolicy review and fieldwork was conducted to serveas a foundation for future project assessment anddevelopment strategies. For more information onthe fieldwork checklist that was used during the sitevisit and informed the development of the SWOC,please refer to Appendix B. The SWOC provides thegroundwork for case study examination and ultimatelythe development of targeted recommendations for theSJAM Parkway. This section contains a brief descriptionof the key findings from the SWOC analysis. For moreinformation, please refer to Appendix C.Figure 2.1 - Bends and curves reveal gorgeous panoramic scenic views along the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team,2014a).2-1

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL2-2Figure 2.2 - Fast-moving commuter presence along the Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014a).Weaknesses identified included the following:• Fast-moving corridor (Figure 2.2);• Limited community access points;• Limited number of crossings;• Lack of amenities such as toilets;• Confusing, sometimes inadequate or absent signage;• Safety concerns with regard to visibility;• Safety concerns related to the width of the pathwayand the volume and speed of bicycle traffic on it; and,• Missed opportunities to create destinations withinthe corridor area that both encourage use and speakmore directly to Canada’s culture and identity.Figure 2.3 - Many opportunities for more official water access alongthe Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014a).Opportunities identified included thefollowing:• Potential to build upon the “gateway” effect headinginto Canada’s Capital;• Potential to become an extension of establishedevents such as Winterlude and Canada Daycelebrations, or become home to new events thatwould draw users from Ottawa and beyond; and,• Possibility of a greater connection between theParkway and the waterfront (Figure 2.3).Figure 2.4 - Finding a balance between recreation and shorelineprotection along the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824Project Team, 2014a).Challenges identified included the following:• Growth of Ottawa’s population to 1.1 million by2031;• City of Ottawa’s plan to increase cycling mode shareto 8%;• Challenge of creating additional recreationopportunities while ensuring shoreline vegetationis protected (Figure 2.4);• Pollution, rapids, fast moving currents, andfloodplains;• Pockets of protected ecosystems and habitats; and,• Pulling the corridor away from its current role as acommuter route.

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL2.2 Parkway Precedents SummaryThirty existing parkways and parks were thoroughlyexamined and evaluated, ranging from optimalexamples that exemplify best practices, to parkwaysthat have deteriorated over time, and to those thathave been successfully revitalized. These were selectedusing criteria described in Appendix E. This widerange of precedents was selected with the purpose ofdemonstrating what characteristics may be important tothe SJAM Parkway, and how these characteristics shouldbe implemented or else avoided. Lessons learned fromthe precedent examination and evaluation are outlinedin detail in Appendix E1.Exemplary Parkways: Best PracticesWhile it is important to evaluate how some parkwayshave been successfully revitalized, and how toavoid repeating the mistakes of parkways that havedeteriorated over the years as discussed below, it is alsoimportant to examine parkways that have maintainedtheir scenic, natural character over the years in order toemulate their successes. The ideal example of a parkwaythat has maintained its character, while also beingextremely relevant to the SJAM Parkway is the GeorgeWashington Memorial Parkway.The George Washington Memorial Parkway runs fromWashington, D.C. – the Capital of the United States, toMount Vernon, Virginia – the plantation home of GeorgeWashington, the first President of the United States(Figure 2.5). The Parkway is approximately 40 kilometresFigure 2.5 - A fall day along the George Washington Memorial Parkway, Washington, D.C. (National Park Service, 2014).long, following the Potomac River, a route that gainedpopularity as a sort of patriotic pilgrimage in the 19 thcentury. By the 1920s more than 200,000 people eachyear were following the route which helped to buildadvocacy for a national road, and construction beganin 1929, continuing until 1968 (Cooper, 2014). The roadwas suggested by designers such as landscape architectFrederick Law Olmsted Jr. and noted architect DanielBurnham. The classical characteristics of Olmsted’sparkways continue to be integral to its design today.In fact, the route remains largely unchanged todayfrom its completion in the 1970s, with the exceptionof two lanes added to accommodate traffic exiting toReagan National Airport. It is also worth noting that thisparkway prohibits commercial vehicles, which helps tokeep traffic flows down.Features that define the George Washington MemorialParkway are its sweeping bends and scenic vistas ofthe Potomac River and the lush forests and plantationsof Virginia. These natural and scenic views have beenstaunchly defended by the US National Park Service,which owns and maintains the Parkway and adjacentlands. This parkway also uses its history to tell a storyto those who travel it, passing by such symbols ofnational identity as the Lincoln Memorial, Mount VernonPlantation, Huntley Meadows Park, Dyke Marsh, and theWoodrow Wilson Bridge (National Park Service, 2014).These features also make it an exemplary parkway(Garvin, 2011; Thomas, 2000). This grandiose drive givesa feeling of nationalism, national identity, almost holinessto those who travel along it. The NCC should strive forthis same overwhelming feeling of national pride whentraversing the SJAM Parkway, emphasizing the journeysof Canada’s founding peoples on the Ottawa River andother symbols of national pride such as our veterans,our cultural mosaic, and views of Parliament Hill.2-3

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL2-4Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing: DeterioratedParkwaysParkways were originally conceived and designedby Olmsted as a means to protect the environment,preserve historical sites, and provide people with atherapeutic escape from the busy and polluted city(Fábos, 2004). Well-designed parkways emphasize thenature-people connection. Some common featuresof classical parkways include limited access points,restrictions on types of traffic, low speeds, highpermeability, and adjacent parks and trails (NationalPark Service, 1993). In other words, parkways werenot intended as thoroughfares, and classical parkwayfeatures were not compatible with the goals of trafficengineers. This resulted in pressure to convert parkwaysto expressways, which often threatens these featuresthat are essential to the experience of a parkway.Two particular cases, Ocean Parkway and the St.Charles Esplanade exemplify how pressure toconstruct expressways in the 1950s contributed to thedeterioration of their natural qualities and function asnatural linkages within a larger interconnected systemof parks (National Parks Service, n.d.).The Ocean Parkway in Brooklyn was designed byOlmsted and Vaux in 1876 as a grand boulevardextending the landscaping of Prospect Park throughoutBrooklyn and New York (Macdonald, 2005). When theParkway first opened, there was a centre median withtrees, statues, and fountains. These natural elementshave been since paved over to widen lanes andcreate centre barriers. The removal of grass and treecanopies diminished the natural aesthetic that Olmsteddesigned and began to transform the parkway into anexpressway (Macdonald, 2002) (Figures 2.6 and 2.7). Itis important to note, however, that the deterioration ofthis parkway is due in part to its administration fallingunder the authority of the NY State Department ofTransport. Because this agency’s mandate is efficienttransportation, the roadway took importance over thegreenspace surrounding it.Figure 2.6 - Cycling path on Ocean Boulevard, Brooklyn, 1908(Lyon, 2014).Pressure in the 1950s to increase road efficiency resultedin the northern section of the Parkway‘s conversionto the Prospect Expressway, which severed the OceanParkway’s connection to Ocean Park. To prevent a similaralteration of the Parkway in the future, the Parkway wasdesignated a landmark in 1975 (Dover and Massengale,2013; NYC Parks, n.d.). This is an example of the type ofprotection the NCC should consider obtaining for theSJAM Parkway.Figure 2.7 - An expressway-like segment of Ocean Boulevard withmultiple pedestrian barriers, Brooklyn, NY (Google, 2014).Similarly, the Charles River Esplanade was transformedwith the construction of Storrow Drive in 1949 (Figure2.8). Originally, the easternmost section of the CharlesRiver Esplanade was designed by Frederick LawOlmsted in the 1880s as a promenade along the riverwith landscaped grounds for leisure (Boston LandmarksCommission, 2009).There were draft plans in the 1920s to create anexpressway along the river but a 1929 legislativelyapprovedplan for the Esplanade specified that noportion of the park should be used for a roadway(Livable Streets, 2011). Despite strong oppositionand assurances given to the Storrow family, Storrow

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALDrive was constructed to alleviate “disgraceful” traffic.Although river-fill was used to compensate for lostparkland, Storrow Drive created both a physical andaesthetic barrier to the Esplanade Park and river (Boeri,2009). This case study demonstrates how failed policyand attempts to relieve congestion deteriorated accessto nature and the Charles River. There is, however, a lightat the end of the tunnel. Recent preservation initiativesby the Department of Conservation and Recreationare promoting enhancement and preservation of theEsplanade.Figure 2.9 - Pedestrian amenities along the Promenade Samuel-De Champlain waterfront, Québec (Arch Daily, 2008).Figure 2.8 - Auto-oriented segment of Storrow Drive, Boston,Massachusetts (t55z, 2013).Parkways have had to endure changing prioritiesand attitudes which have threatened and in somecases erased the “park” aspect from parkways. Otherexamples include Toronto’s Don Valley Parkway,Chicago’s Lakeshore Boulevard, and Buffalo’s HumboldtParkway. These case studies are only a small sample ofwhat could happen when incremental ‘minor’ changesare made to a parkway. The precedents strengthen thecase for more restrictive protections placed on the parkbuffer that flanks the SJAM Parkway.Moving On Up: Successfully RevitalizedParkwaysAs this project focuses on the revitalization efforts ofthe NCC on the SJAM Parkway, examples of parkwaysthat have undergone successful revitalization attemptsare particularly relevant. Two of the best examples ofsuccessful parkway revitalization that were examinedare the promenade Samuel-De Champlain, or Samuelde Champlain Parkway, on the north bank of the St.Lawrence River in Québec City, and Queens Quay onthe City of Toronto waterfront.The promenade Samuel-De Champlain in Québec isa 2.5-kilometre stretch of road that was redevelopedover several years after a formal decision in 1996, andfinally opened to the public in 2008 on the day of lafête nationale, to celebrate the 400 th anniversary ofthe founding of Québec (Figure 2.9). This emphasizedthe importance of the Parkway as a powerful, symbolicgateway to the Province’s Capital, which Québecoisoften see as their own national capital.This short parkway runs adjacent to wide, multi-usetrails intended for rollerbladers, cyclists and pedestrians;parks; a myriad of sport fields; public art installations;observation decks; and heritage sites (Ville de Québec,2005). This parkway has turned a scenic, but otherwiseunremarkable drive, into a linear park that tells the story2-5

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL2-6of a proud culture, leading eventually to the Plains ofAbraham and Vieux Québec, the historic and culturalfocal points of Québec’s Capital (Canadian Society ofLandscape Architects, 2009). The idea of focal pointsthat tell a story is essential to the SJAM Parkway if wehope to demonstrate its importance as a gateway toCanada’s Capital, and as an experience to be enjoyedby all Canadians, not just those who live in the City ofOttawa.Queens Quay, while not a parkway by definition, sharessome important characteristics with parkways whichmakes it a worthwhile case to examine (Dalbey, 2002).This three-kilometre waterfront boulevard is located onthe waterfront of the City of Toronto along Lake Ontario(Figure 2.10). It was originally built as a street to serviceindustrial uses, primarily moving freight. Industrial useeventually fell out of favour and the waterfront shiftedfrom primarily industrial developments to apartmentdevelopments.Queens Quay was criticized as an “unfriendly welcome”to the City. This led to revitalization efforts, includingreducing the number of lanes from four to three byremoving two traffic lanes and adding a dedicated lanefor streetcars, making the roadway more permeableand safer for pedestrians, as well as the remediationof industrial lands in order to improve water accessfor leisure and recreation (Waterfront Toronto, 2014a).Since it is sometimes suggested that the SJAM Parkwaydoes not have enough parkland, it may be appropriateto consider the Queens Quay strategy of putting fillinto the water to add valuable riverside park space.Another strategy to consider is to reduce the numberof traffic lanes and the speed limit. Queens Quay is anideal example of how a high-traffic, unfriendly roadcan be reclaimed for collaborative use by a number ofdifferent users.Figure 2.10 - Re-design concept for Toronto’s Queens Quay(Waterfront Toronto, 2014b).Fun in the Sun: Lessons from Parks Aroundthe WorldParkways were originally conceived by Olmstedto provide pleasurable driving experiences linkingflagship parks. With that in mind, the study of parksis an important segment in the re-imagining of theSJAM Parkway. The SJAM Parkway revitalization projectseeks to reintroduce this balance by emphasizing theimportance of the park and highlighting features thatcan guide and assist in the re-imagining of the Parkway.We studied a variety of park precedents, ranging fromnatural, reserve-style parks such as Brasília NationalPark and Holyrood Park in Edinburgh to more built-upparks such as Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay and SãoPaulo’s Ibirapuera Park. Other precedents examinedfor this report fell in between natural and developed,such as Margaret Island in Hungary and Vancouver’sStanley Park. Each of these parks had unique featuresand lessons that helped to inform our design.Figure 2.11 - Temporary beaches spring up each summer in Paris(Le Tourville Eiffel, 2014).Relevant with the goals outlined by the project, thenature-oriented parks showcased how to successfullyinvite the population into a park while maintaining,preserving, and improving the natural built environment.Parks such as these have opened up areas for peopleto enjoy nature while simultaneously educating themabout the importance and role nature in parks. Much

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 2.12 - Oneof the largestoutdoor ice rinksin Europe: PrincesStreet Gardens,Edinburgh,Scotland(VisitScotland,2014).Stanley Park, while concentrating on preserving andprotecting the ecology, offers upwards of 27 kilometresof forested trails for all users and a magnificentpedestrian/cycling trail along the Seawall. Additionally,the Park forms summer partnerships to develop eventssurrounding Aboriginal history and culture.While a tourist destination, Margaret Island hasmaintained its island banks completely natural; aswell as preserved and repurposed many of the 12 thcentury scattered ruins. These parks, which offer a mixof natural and cultural features should serve as modelsfor the SJAM Parkway.Some supplementary unique features which can beextracted from these parks precedents include:• Emphasizing the park’s surroundings to create asense of grandeur much like the Edinburgh Castleis to Princes Street Gardens as is Parliament to theSJAM Parkway;like Brasília, the SJAM Parkway can benefit fromincreased user awareness and perhaps a more definedtrail network to better conserve areas such as MudLake, while still utilizing this area as a recreationalattraction.As the Parkway partially functions as a thoroughfare,it is important to draw in new users, and some parksstudied used programming and events in orderto achieve this goal. These examples also usedthese attractions as education opportunities. The“Supertrees” in the Gardens by the Bay Park work toattract visitors from around the world while its twocompletely green biospheres complement natureand offer a glimpse into various world climates. TheIbirapuera Park is said to also give the brain a goodworkout with its ample cultural and historic attractions.In addition to providing a natural urban escape, theIbirapuera Park offers internationally renowned venues,shows, and exhibits. For the SJAM Parkway to trulybecome Canada’s Parkway, lessons can be adapted toblend a wide range of activities into the natural builtenvironment.• Incorporating park rangers to shepherd theparkway, provide guided walking tours, and partnerwith community groups and institutions;• Enabling interactive art exhibits to be temporarilyyincorporated throughout the park and laterauctioned off for great cause; and,• Improving winter livability by using makeshift andofficial ice skating rinks and other outdoor winteractivities and events (Figure 2.12).A challenge arises when seeking to balance publicservices with the need to preserve the natural builtenvironment. For example, Parque Nacional de Brasília2-7

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 2.13 - A pedestrian and cyclist pathway in Ibirapuera Park,Sao Paulo, Brazil (Christensen and Morsbøl, 2012).and Holyrood Park both lack restrooms and amenities,but the other parks studied were well-equippedfor human use. The importance of these services isfurther highlighted by the increased user base of theseattractions. On a smaller scale, difficulties arising fromimplementing bike paths such as increased hazardsand barriers have been identified and addressed inmany park plans such as the Stanley Park Cycling Plan(2012).The importance of parks within and outside of the urbanecosystem is paramount and revitalization projectsoffer the great opportunity to visit and analyze parksaround the world. There are many exemplary features,characteristics, and lessons that can be molded andapplied to this revitalization project. A crucial step inputting the park back into parkway is understandingthe park and its role in the urban fabric. With that said,the park precedents are meant to inspire innovationin the process of transforming the SJAM Parkway intoCanada’s parkway.Implications for Planning the SJAM ParkwayAfter examining a number of case studies, there areseveral lessons that be drawn for the re-imagining ofthe SJAM Parkway. It is important to think big and toavoid crumbling under constant incremental pressureto develop, expand infrastructure, and hinder theparkway experience. This gateway to Canada’s Capitalhas the potential to stir natural pride and to takepeople on a journey through the country’s history.Furthermore, it is essential not to cling to the old idealsof historic parkways for their own sake, when the SJAMParkway and its surrounding amenities should beaccessed and used by the public.2-8Figure 2.14 - Cyclists and pedestrians along the multi-use Seawall in Vancouver’s Stanley Park (MacDonald, 2014).

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL2.3 Public Engagement SummaryCharretteOn October 16 th , 2014, the team conducted a designcharrette at the National Capital Commission (NCC)’sUrbanism Lab in Ottawa. The purpose of the charrettewas to present the current conditions of the SJAMParkway as we saw them, provide examples of designcharacteristics, and open ourselves up to input fromresidents, stakeholders, and professionals. The charrettebuilt upon the results of a stakeholder workshophosted by the NCC in May 2014. The objectives of thecharrette were to:• Provide participants with sufficient backgroundanalysis to inform their vision and design for theSir John A. Macdonald Parkway;• Review parkway precedents to draw upon bestpractices in terms of design, recreational amenities,public art, and commemorations; and,• Provide participants with an opportunity toparticipate in exercises where ideas as well as avision for the site could be generated.During the visioning and design exercise, theparticipants identified a wide range of ideas and visionsfor specific areas of the SJAM Parkway along with overalldesign concepts. At the end of this exercise, projectteam members from each table presented their group’sdesigns as well as summarized the discussion andideas of their group. Overall, these short presentationsrevealed shared visions for the SJAM Parkway. The mainideas shared by the participants during the charretteFigure 2.15 - Ibrahim Dia and Dhilan Gunasekara presentingprecedents research during the October 2014 charrette at theNCC (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).Figure 2.17 - Daniel Downey and Himanshu Katyal leading adesign and visioning exercise during the October 2014 charretteat the NCC (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).Figure 2.16 - Alia Tulloch and David Ringuette presenting aSWOC analysis during the October 2014 charrette at the NCC(SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).Figure 2.18 - Dilys Huang and Elizabeth Bang leading a designand visioning exercise during the October 2014 charrette at theNCC (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).2-9

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALhave been categorized into different themes:• Heritage / Significance• Accessibility• Transportation• Recreation• Environment• Space-MakingThese findings from the charrette were used to informthe final design process of the SJAM Parkway. Thecharrette served as an opportunity to gather invaluableinput from the workshop participants.For more details about the charrette and an accountof the charrette findings, please refer to Appendix F3.Stakeholder InterviewsAs a waterfront parkway along an important waterwayin the Ottawa region and Canada, development withinthis area would affect a variety of stakeholders. Theproject team identified key stakeholders with a vestedinterest in the SJAM Parkway, and contacted them tocollect their input regarding the current corridor andpotential developments. The value of this processis that the input from these stakeholders can beincorporated into the concept design for the SJAMParkway. The stakeholders were selected based on theseven stakeholder types mentioned below.Types of stakeholders:• Planning professionals• Community organizations• Cycling groups• Environmental and conservation groups• Recreational groups• Educational groups• Neighbourhood associationsA semi-structured interview process was used toask questions from the selected stakeholders. Thecontacted stakeholders include the National CapitalCommission, City of Ottawa, Heritage Ottawa, BikeOttawa, Ottawa Bicycle Lanes Project, Rideau ValleyConservation Authority, Ottawa River Runners, MudLake Biodiversity Project, Mud Lake Educator, and theChamplain Park Community Association.The stakeholder interview process identified some ofthe key issues of the SJAM Parkway, including safetyfor pedestrians, nighttime safety, lack of activities,more effective signage, better winter maintenance,and segregation of travel modes. The concerns andsuggestions provided by key stakeholders werevaluable to our project team as it helped the designvision and creation of policy recommendations.Appendix G provides a more detailed account of theinterview process and a summary of responses toindividual interview questions.2-10

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALReferencesArch Daily. (2008). Promenade Samuel-de Champlain. Retrievedfrom Archdaily: http://www.archdaily.com/10080/promenade-samuel-de-champlain-consortium-daoustlestage-williams-asselin-ackaoui-option-amenagement/promenade-samuel-de-champlain-7/Boeri, D. (2009, July 17). The Parkway Known As Storrow Drive.Retrieved from WBUR News Station: http://www.wbur.org/2009/07/17/esplanade-futureBoston Landmarks Commission. (2009). Charles River Esplanade.Retrieved from City of Boston: https://www.cityofboston.gov/images_documents/Charles%20River%20Esplanade%20Study%20Report,%20as%20amended_tcm3-12653.pdfCanadian Society of Landscape Architects. (2009). Awards andHonours. Retrieved from Canadian Society of LandscapeArchitects: http://www.csla-aapc.ca/awards-atlas/samuelde-champlain-parkwayChristensen, J. G., & Morsbøl, A. (2012). São Paulo. Retrieved fromUrban Designers Abroad 2012 Blog: http://urbabroad.wordpress.com/diary/sao-paulo/Cooper, R. (2014). George Washington Memorial Parkway.Retrieved from About.com: http://dc.about.com/od/nationalparks/a/GWParkway.htmDalbey, M. (2002). Regional Visionaries and Metropolitan Boosters:Decentralization, Regional Planning, and ParkwaysDuring the Interwar Years. Norwell, MA: Kluwer AcademicPublishers.Dover, V., & Massengale, J. (2013). Street Design the Secret toGreat Cities and Towns. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.Fábos, J. G. (2004). Greenway planning in the united states: Itsorigins and recent case studies. Landscape and UrbanPlanning, 68(2-3), 321-342.Garvin, A. (2011). Public Parks, the Key to Livable Communities.New York, NY: W.W. Norton and Company, Inc.Google. (2014). Brooklyn, NY. Retrieved from Google Maps:https://www.google.ca/mapsLees, E., Redman, H., Amon, K., Abelson, B., & Drdul, R. (2012).Stanley Park Cycling Plan. Vancouver: Vancouver ParkBoard.Le Tourville Eiffel. (2014). Paris Plage 2014, the beach near theHotel Le Tourville. Retrieved from Le Tourville Eiffel:http://paris-hotel-tourville.com/en/paris-plage-2014Livable Streets. (2011, January 1). Storrow Drive taking overEsplanade?. Retrieved from Livable Streets: RethinkingUrban Transportation: http://www.livablestreets.info/node/183Lyon, C. (2014, September 10). Brooklyn and the Nation’s OldestBike Path. Retrieved from Huffingtonpost: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/cody-lyon/stories-from-americasold_b_5794430.htmlMacdonald, E. (2002). Structuring a landscape, structuring a senseof place: The enduring complexity of Olmsted and Vaux’sBrooklyn parkways. Journal of Urban Design, 7(2), 117-143.Macdonald, E. (2005). Suburban vision to urban reality: Theevolution of Olmsted and Vaux’s Brooklyn parkwayneighborhoods. Journal of Planning History, 4(4), 295-321.MacDonald, C. (2014). Cycling the Trans Canada Trail throughBC. Retrieved from CycloTouringBC: http://www.cyclotouringbc.com/wordpress/2014/04/07/cycling-thetrans-canada-trail-through-bc/National Park Service. (1993). George Washington MemorialParkway (Mount Vernon Memorial Highway) (Clara BartonParkway). Retrieved from Historic American EngineeringRecord: http://lcweb2.loc.gov/master/pnp/habshaer/va/va1600/va1677/data/va1677data.pdfNational Park Service. (2014). George Washington MemorialParkway. Retrieved from National Park Service: http://www.nps.gov/gwmp/index.htmNational Park Service. (n.d.). The Emerald Necklace: Boston’s GreenConnection. Retrieved from National Parks Service: http://www.nps.gov/nr/twhp/wwwlps/lessons/NYC Parks. (n.d.). Ocean Parkway Malls. Retrieved from NYC Parks:http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/ocean-parkway-malls/historySURP 824 Project Team. (2014a, September 12). Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway Site Visit. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.SURP 824 Project Team. (2014b, October 16). NCC StakeholderCharrette. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.t55z. (2013, December 2). Storrow Drive. Retrieved fromFlickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/54690684@N07/11180567516Thomas, J. L. (2000). Holding the Middle Ground. In R. Fishman,American Planning Tradition (pp. 33-63). Baltimore,Maryland: The Woodrow Wilson Centre Press.Ville de Québec. (2005). Le littoral ouest. Québec, Québec: Ville deQuébec.VisitScotland. (2014). Edinburgh Christmas - Markets & Festivals.Retrieved from VisitScotland: http://www.visitscotland.com/en-ca/see-do/events/winter-festivals/edinburghWaterfront Toronto. (2014a). Constructing Queens Quay. RetrievedOctober 4, 2014, from Waterfront Toronto: http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/constructingqqWaterfront Toronto. (2014b). Our waterfront is changing.Retrieved from Waterfront Toronto: http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/2-11

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RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL3.0 VISION FOR THEPARKWAYIn preparation for the design segment of the SJAMParkway, a small visioning session was conducted bythe team. The purpose of this session was to combinethe preliminary research, charrette ideas, and interviewresponses to create a conceptual design for the corridorand three demonstration plans. For this session, weprepared ourselves with drawing utensils, straightedges, maps, pictures, computers, and a positiveattitude.Figure 3.1 - Our project team synthesizing precedent findings andour NCC charrette takeaways through our own mini charrette(SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).The first step was to discuss common comments madeduring the charrette visioning session on October 16thand other important input from stakeholders. Fromthis, we determined we should have a theme for theParkway with guiding principles as well as commondesign elements running throughout the corridor toreinforce the unity of the Parkway. We wrote downideas and concepts, ranging from realistic to abstractto help generate ideas to make the Parkway unique.After developing several different themes and designprinciples, we moved on to designing the Parkway.Figure 3.2 - A design draft from our team’s mini charrette (SURP824 Project Team, 2014b).As a group, we identified environmental constraints,cultural connections to surrounding communities,future development in the area, and potential thematicopportunities to create a cohesive corridor design. Wedid this by having base maps of the site at varying scalesand using trace paper to sketch and write the ideas aswell as concepts we envisioned. We also marked wherepotential programmable opportunities for the site wereand how they can add a positive element to the corridor.Figure 3.3 - Vision development (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014b).This information allowed us to further understand theopportunities and constraints of the site.Throughout this session, we asked ourselves a few keyquestions:• Who is the site for?• Who are the users?• Why are people coming to the site?• Does this fit with the surrounding uses?• How does this parkway play a role in Ottawa?These questions helped us to generate ideas for the siteas well as strategically locate opportunities. It furtherhelped us identify three areas of focus along the SJAMParkway: Mud Lake area, Island Park/Champlain Bridge,and the Cloverleaf/Parkdale Loop/Bayview Sector area.It was determined that an overall concept design forthe corridor would be created along with three smallerscaleplans that exemplify our vision for the SJAMParkway.3-1

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL3.1 “Canada’s Parkway”The following vision statement was developed throughpublic consultation, case study research, and policyanalysis. It acts as a summary of our aspirations for theSJAM Parkway, and shapes the goals and policies thatlie at the heart of this revitalization plan. The proposedvision is:To create a public space that representswho we are as a country and a people, thatcelebrates the diversity of our landscapesand peoples, and which showcases thenatural beauty of Canada’s capital. To createa signature public space that draws peopleto it, residents and visitors alike, and allowsCanadians from coast-to-coast to feel athome.““3-2

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL3.2 Goals & ObjectivesThis section outlines the key elements necessary toachieve the vision for the SJAM Parkway.Goal 1: IdentityThe Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway shall be a nationallyrecognizable name and attraction, with specific featuresand characteristics that help define it as a Canadianlandmark. The Parkway shall be a distinct feature ofCanada’s Capital, known for its own history and beauty,while also being recognizable as part of Ottawa’sinternationally renowned Parkway system. It shouldhave a clear theme that reflects its place as Canada’sParkway, showing the diversity of Canada through anatural to urban framework and re-connecting users toour country’s journey from frontier hinterland to moderncultural and economic forerunner.Figure 3.4 - Canadian pride on display near Remic Rapids, Sir JohnA. Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014a).Figure 3.5 - Promenade Samuel-De Champlain, Québec (Greffard,2008).Objectives1. Develop a cohesive theme for the Parkway2. Use the Parkway to promote knowledge andunderstanding of Canadian history and culture3. Link to other cultural institutions and locationswithin the City4. Emphasize the historic and natural significance ofOttawa RiverFigure 3.6 - Monument to Fallen Diplomats, Sir John A. MacdonaldParkway (MB-one, 2014).Figure 3.7 - Maple leaf detail on the Water’s Edge Promenade,Queen’s Quay revitalisation, Toronto (DTAH, n.d.).3-3

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALGoal 2: CommunityThe communities adjacent to the Parkway, and theentirety of Canada’s Capital, shall view the corridor astheir own. The residents and regular users of the parkspace shall feel safe and comfortable in their use of theParkway. Frequent use of the park space by a wide varietyof users shall be promoted. The design should encompasshow people interact with the Parkway and the memoriesthey take away from it.Objectives1. Foster additional connections between theParkway and its surrounding communities2. Create additional focal points, destinations, andopportunities for programmed activities withinthe park3. Develop spaces that appeal to many differentdemographics4. Ensure that users of the park are safe andcomfortableFigure 3.10 - Winnipeg’s annual warming hut competition attractsinterest from architects all around the world and gives residents ofWinnipeg another reason to get out on the ice and celebrate winter(Warming Huts, 2012).3-4Figure 3.8 - While the Parkway may be a resource for thecommunities adjacent to it, those same communities maythemselves be a resource for the Parkway. This sign from the MudLake area bears a promise made by local students and educators tocare for the area and its wildlife (SURP 824 Project Team, 2014a).Figure 3.9 - Movies on the Beach at Westboro Beach. During thecharrette and stakeholder interviews, it became clear that WestoboBeach is a much-loved focal point along the Parkway (gozzygirl,2012).Figure 3.11 - This photograph from Margaret Island illustrates howsuccessful water features can be as focal points (About Budapest,2013).

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALGoal 3: Environmental SensitivityThe parkway shall maintain its natural and conservationspaces and continue to focus on compatible uses withsurrounding fragile ecosystems. Destructive developmentshall be prohibited in favour of low-impact use of theexisting environmental assets. Various initiatives, suchas shoreline protection, conservation, and stormwatermanagement are also important considerations.Objectives1. Protect and support the Parkway in its role as anatural corridor2. Plan for recreational activities that are compatiblewith sensitive terrestrial and aquatic habitats3. Create additional opportunities forenvironmental educationGoal 4: RecreationRecreational and leisure uses should prevail overtransportation uses. The Parkway shall take fulladvantage of its natural and cultural elements in orderto promote active, healthy lifestyles. Thought was givento the enhancement of recreational opportunities forall users. Some of these opportunities include cycling,walking, picnicking, water-related recreation, and theenjoyment of scenic views.Figure 3.14 - Kayaking on the Ottawa River (Ottawa, 2014).Figure 3.13 - Cross-country skiing in Gatineau Park, Quebec(National Capital Commission, 2014a).Figure 3.12 - In the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, a little boylearns just how big how big the wing span of some species of localbirds can get (Brooks, 2013).Objectives1. Provide space for separated active transportationand recreational pathways, and to allow forwinter snow clearance of bikeways whileproviding for winter sports such as cross-countryskiing in other parts of the Parkway2. Emphasize interaction with the Ottawa River bydeveloping additional infrastructure to supportwater-based activitiesFigure 3.15 - During Sunday Bikedays, parkways around Ottawaare closed to vehicular traffic and opened up for cyclists, runners,walkers, and rollerbladers (Callan, n.d.).3-5

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL3-63.3 Key ThemesAssets of the SJAM Parkway were identified duringfield work, the charrette, and stakeholder interviews.It was found that although the SJAM Parkway’s assetsranged from various unobstructed views of the OttawaRiver and Gatineau to an escape for residents and adestination hub for visitors and naturalists, a cohesivedesign and identity was needed to bring these assetstogether into one shared vision for the SJAM Parkway.The main identity that was determined by our projectteam and re-imagined for the SJAM Parkway is: Canada’sParkway. With this identity in mind, this concept designlooks to exemplify a nationally significant corridor bymodeling the highest standards of excellence in two keythemes: history and culture as well as the environment.It further aims to thread a Capital identity through thecorridor and encourage users to identify the SJAMParkway foremost as a destination rather than a route.Figure 3.16 - Theme hierarchy for our design concept of the Sir JohnA. Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team).Key Theme 1: History and CultureOne of the key themes that defines this concept design ofthe SJAM Parkway and supports the corridor’s identity asCanada’s Parkway is history and culture. This theme aims tomeet the goals and objectives listed in Section 3.2 that wishto promote continuous learning and celebration of Canadianhistory and culture along the corridor. This concept designdemonstrates the history and culture theme by linking theSJAM Parkway to other cultural institutions and locationswithin the City of Ottawa, as well as supporting historicaland cultural programming along the corridor.Figure 3.17 - Preserved historic 19 th century walled garden,Maplelawn Garden, Ottawa (National Capital Commission, 2014b).This theme is further achieved through wayfinding andsignage that identifies landmarks of national significanceand museums; displays of public art from partnershipswith national art institutions as well as artists; and,historical plaques sited in areas along the SJAM Parkwayto emphasize the historical significance of the OttawaRiver and community landmarks (e.g. Maplelawn HistoricGarden (Figure 3.17) and Skead’s Mill).Key Theme 2: EnvironmentThe second key theme that guides this concept designof the SJAM Parkway is environment. As Canada’sParkway, it is important for the SJAM Parkway to be atthe forefront of national environmental initiatives anddemonstrate Canada’s reputation as an environmentalsteward. It is also important for the corridor to be amodel for best practices in the area of environment,sustainability, ecological restoration, and shorelineprotection.The concept design for the overall corridor includesthe use of bioswales as best practices of stormwatermanagement. The segment of the SJAM Parkway thatspans from Dominion Station to Woodroffe Avenueprovides an ideal linear space for a bioswale (Figures3.18 and 3.19). The formal pathway running along theriverside of the SJAM Parkway is presently very closeto the roadway. These locations would benefit frombioswales that contain more naturalized vegetationand can take advantage of the gentle slope towardsthe Ottawa River. The bioswales also add aestheticvalue to the most narrow section of the corridor wherefew opportunities for scenic views were identified inthe Ottawa River Parkway Corridor Visual Assessment(2006) as well as site analyses.This theme supports the goals and objectives listedin Section 3.2 that wish to protect and support theSJAM Parkway in its role as a natural corridor; ensurerecreational activities along the corridor are compatiblewith sensitive terrestrial and aquatic habitats; and,continuously create opportunities for environmentaleducation.

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 3.18 (top) and 3.19 (bottom) - Segments of the Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway which may benefit from bioswales (SURP 824Project Team, 2014a).3.4 Guiding the Concept Design:Natural to Urban FrameworkField work and site analysis showed that in its presentform, the features of the SJAM Parkway follow a naturalto urban gradient. A naturalized, peaceful, and pristinesetting prevails the western portion of the corridor whereMud Lake is the primary feature. As one moves alongthe SJAM Parkway and towards the eastern portionof the corridor, the setting becomes increasingly wellgroomed and urbanized (Figure 3.20).The charrette and stakeholder interviews highlightedthe need for an overarching framework that could guidethe decision making process of the types of designsand installations of the SJAM Parkway, while respectingits natural to urban characteristic. It was determinedthat the concept design would work within this naturalto urban framework to ensure that the siting of designfeatures and recommended programming initiativesalong the SJAM Parkway were context specific.An additional component of the natural to urbanframework is its use in telling a story of Canada’shistory. It was identified in the charrette, stakeholderinterviews, and policy analysis that the SJAM Parkwayshould be a place where Canada’s history is told andusers are re-connected to their nation’s past. To tellthe story of Canada’s history, the natural to urbanframework is used and Canada’s earliest history ispresented at the western end of the SJAM Parkwaywhere it is increasingly naturalized. As users traveltoward the eastern and more urbanized end of thecorridor, the story of Canada’s history moves forward intime. This storytelling component of the SJAM Parkwayruns parallel with the natural to urban framework.The proposed design concepts identify key featuresin each locale and builds upon them to provide userswith greater interactions with the corridor and differentreasons to visit each time. he underlined nature tourban goal of our design will provide users with theability to connect with nature, move along the Parkwayto enjoy some viewscapes, and lastly make their wayinto a recreational hub enjoyed by individuals andfamilies alike.The natural to urban framework provides a purposefuldecision making framework for the SJAM Parkway. Italso helps to guide the site plans of the three locationslater presented in Sections 4.2.Figure 3.20 - Natural to Urban concept for the Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team).3-7

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALReferencesAbout Budapest. (2013). Margaret Island Budapest. Retrieved fromAbout Budapest: http://aboutbudapest.net/margaretisland-budapest/Brooks, L. (2013, March 6). Capilano Suspension Bridge.Retrieved from Ruffruminations: http://www.ruffruminationscom/2013/03/capilano-suspension-bridge.htmlCallan, D. (n.d.). The Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway is a four-lanescenic parkway along the Ottawa River. Retrieved fromHouse Numbers of the World: http://www.housenumbers.ca/parkway.htmlOttawa, City of. (2014). Recreation and Sports. Retrieved from Cityof Ottawa Website: http://ottawa.ca/en/immigration/whychoose-ottawa/recreation-and-sportsSURP 824 Project Team. (2014a, September 12). Sir John A.Macdonald Parkway Site Visit. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.SURP 824 Project Team. (2014b, October 23). Team Charrette.Kingston, Ontario, Canada.Warming Huts. (2012). Warming Huts Gallery. Retrieved fromWarming Huts - An Arts and Architecture Competition onIce: http://www.warminghuts.com/galleryDTAH. (n.d.). East Bayfront Water’s Edge Promenade. Retrieved fromdtah: http://dtah.com/project/east-bayfront-waters-edgepromenade/Gozzygirl. (2012). Harry Potter on the beach. Retrieved fromChildfree: https://childfree.wordpress.com/2012/07/08/harry-potter-on-the-beach/Greffard, R. (2008). Station des Cageux. Retrieved from CommissionDe La Capitale Nationale: http://www.ccnq.org/realisations/promenade-samuel-champlain/MB-one. (2014). Fallen Diplomats Memorial Ottawa. Retrievedfrom Wikimedia Commons: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fallen_Diplomats_Memorial_Ottawa.jpgNational Capital Commission. (2006). Urban Lands Master PlanOttawa River Parkway Corridor Visual Assessment. Ottawa:National Capital Commission.National Capital Commission. (2014a). Cross-Country Skiing inGatineau Park. Retrieved from NCC: http://www.ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places-to-visit/gatineau-park/things-to-do/crosscountry-skiing-gatineau-parkNational Capital Commission. (2014b). Maplelawn Garden.Retrieved from NCC: http://www.ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places-tovisit/parks-paths/maplelawn-garden3-8

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL4.0 THE SJAM PARKWAY,RE-IMAGINEDAs Canada’s Parkway, the SJAM Parkway is re-imaginedas a place that:• Prioritizes people and their connection to natureand history;• Protects its ecological treasures and fostersenvironmental stewardship;• Supports healthy lifestyles; and,• Gives residents and visitors a place to breathe,stretch their legs, and play during every season.4.1 Key FeaturesTo achieve this in the concept plan for the SJAMParkway, the team focused on five key features - closureof the westbound vehicle lane; the establishment of ahierarchy of gateway features; crossings and pathways;public art; and, connections to the water.Westbound Lane ClosureThe most notable feature of the overall concept plan isthe closure of the westbound lane to vehicular trafficand the re-engineering of the westbound lane to accepttwo-way traffic. Although bold, such a move is notwithout precedent - lane reduction is a notable featureof Toronto’s Queen’s Quay, Chattanooga’s RiverfrontParkway revitalization projects, and seasonally in ParisPlages.After closure, the westbound lane would be repurposed asa multipurpose active transportation corridor. Providingthis type of separate space for commuter cyclists wouldrelieve the pressure on the waterfront pathway, makingit safer and more welcoming for those travelling on foot.Snow could be cleared from the repurposed lane inthe winter, allowing for all-season use by cyclists whileleaving the pedestrian pathway for other winter activitiessuch as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.Another significant benefit of repurposing the westboundlane would be the opportunity to remove the ParkdaleLoop, a trumpet interchange that currently dominatesthe SJAM Parkway location that possesses the highestquality view. This site was identified during the charretteand site analysis as a significant missed opportunity. Withthe roadway gone, the site could be adapted to provideamenities and facilities that will create a signature placealong the SJAM Parkway corridor. The concept could betested seasonally on weekends, and the NCC could alsotest the idea of reversible lanes, such as the Rock CreekParkway.GatewaysGateways are another important part of the conceptfor the re-imagined SJAM Parkway. Gateways along theSJAM Parkway will be sited at either ends of the corridor(east and west) in addition to major neighbourhoodentrances (north to south). The key gateway featureslocated at the eastern and western ends of the SJAMParkway emphasize movement, arrival, and a destination.They will act as the pivotal point where users recognizethey have arrived at or left Canada’s Parkway.It was identified in the charrette that often times eitherends of a linear park naturally become the primary focusand investment for gateways. Gateways on a local andmore smaller scale are less emphasized or implemented.In the overall concept plan, where major neighbourhoodentrances meet the SJAM Parkway, a smaller gateway willbe implemented. This will allow the recognition of theSJAM Parkway from a neighbourhood level and improveaccess to the Parkway. The various movements along, to,and out of the SJAM Parkway are identified in Figure 4.1.The types of gateways that will be recognized alongthe SJAM Parkway and the kinds of infrastructure andamenities they will provide are presented in more detailin Map 4.1.Figure 4.1 - Conceptual drawing detailing the movement along, to,and out of the SJAM Parkway (SURP 824 Project Team).4-1

XYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYRE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL4-2Connectivity and GatewaysCASSELS STREETHOWEDONPOULINµµXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYµµµøRICHLINREGINAFORESTCROYDONXYXYµXYXYXYXYXYXYMCEWEN@úûXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXY@IA@Òú ÒXYXYXYXYELDERXYXYXYXYMIDWAYLAWNCARLINGXYXYRICEWOODROFFEANCASTERWALSHMap 4.1 - Suggested locations of proposed major and community gateways (Base Map Source: National Capital Commission GIS Data).AYLENµ ÒXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYµXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYµµIA @ ú ø@ úûµBYRONSIR JOHN A. MACDONALDSHERBOURNESAVILLEWAVELLNEEPAWAWINDERMERECARLINGXY XYµXYXYIAKENWOODFRASERLAUDERCHAMPLAINATLANTISXYXYXYXYXYXYSELBYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYLANARKWHITBYRAVENHILLBROADVIEWGOLDENIA @èéXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYµWINONAXYXYLINCOLNMELBOURNEROOSEVELTCOLEHIGHLANDXYXYXYCHURCHILLXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYúXYXYXYXYIACLEARVIEWREMICRICHMONDEDISON1:30,000PONTIACDANIELXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYCARLETONISLAND PARKXYXYXYXYXYèéXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYXYGOLDENRODWESTERNSCOTTXYROSSBASSETTXYúø µ èéXYXYXYXYXYXYPARKDALETUNNEY'S PASTURESMIRLEXYXYHURONJULIANXYXYRIVERXYXYXYTRANSITWAYXYHAMILTONXYXYßúXYBAYVIEWLOWREYARMSTRONGXYXYMELROSEXYXYIA ú±²Ò èéèéèé±² èéúXYXYIRVINGXYXYXYXYXYSPADINAXYXYVIMYXYXYXY XYXYXYELMXYXYXYXYXYXYXY XYXYXYFLEETALBERTSOMERSETELMOAKXYXYXYROCHESTERLARCHBOOTHGLADSTONEIAÒøµSLATERARTHURLEBRETONBRONSONBELLCAMBRIDGE1.5 0.75 0 1.5KilometersNCC Parking LotsCommunity GatewayDestination GatewayInformal Community Connectionµ Informal Crossing±² Major Gatewayúßèéúû Transit Entryway@KilometresPedestrian UnderpassPotential Future SiteSignalised CrossingUncontrolled Crossing

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALthe creation of mid-block crossings in order to respondto pedestrian behaviour (Traffic Engineering CouncilCommittee 5A-5, 1998). In the context of the Parkway,this will mean the creation of numerous additionalcrossings, particularly between Champlain Bridge andthe Britannia Conservation Area. Map 4.2 indicates thelocation of the suggested additional crossings. Currently,the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario prevents the creationof safe uncontrolled mid-block crossings by assigningthe right-of-way to vehicles instead of pedestrians atthese locations. Although the growing traction of theComplete Streets movement in the Province of Ontariomay eventually cause this to change, in the interim itis the recommendation of this report that pedestriantraffic studies be conducted at these informal crossings,and controlled crossings should be created in thoselocations that are used daily by multiple individuals.The closure of the westbound lane should also beaccompanied by a reconfiguration of the pedestriancrossing at the Champlain Bridge intersection. Thisintersection is both a community and a destinationgateway and currently does not present a verywelcoming environment for pedestrians.Figure 4.2 - Perspective of proposed crossings and pathways.Crossings and PathwaysThe concept plan for the re-imagined SJAM Parkwaytakes into consideration informal pathways. Currentlythere are many locations where people are creatingtheir own informal pathways between the neighbouringcommunities and the recreational pathways. Usingair photos from GeoOttawa, it was observed thatmany of these pathways extend from culs-de-sac tothe pedestrian pathways. In some locations whereintersection crossings and pedestrian underpasses arefar apart, or where the pedestrian destination is acrossthe street, these informal pathways cross the Parkway.This has resulted in the creation of locations wherepedestrians are exposing themselves to traffic in placeswhere users of the roadway might not expect them.The Institute of Transportation Engineers recommendsPublic ArtAs Canada’s Parkway, the SJAM Parkway should be aplace that celebrates Canadian culture and history. Theinclusion of public art at appropriate sites is one waythat the concept achieves this goal of supporting andenhancing identity.The Project for Public Spaces offers a guide fordetermining the placement of public art in a park setting.The criteria used to determine the placement of public4-3

REIMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAYRE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALCommunity1234Key Gateway (West)Temporary Public ArtLincoln Fields Station CrossingKey Gateway (East)Suggested Locations for Controlled CrossingsSuggested Locations for Public ArtIsland Park DriveDominionStationTunney’s Pasture4LegendROADWAYPARKWAY1 23 CYCLE WAYMud LakeNMap 4.2 - Suggested additional crossings and locations for public art along the SJAM Parkway.4-4

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALart include high visibility and high traffic location, anorganic fit with the scale and characteristics of thesite, and the potential to activate and invigorate thepedestrian and streetscape experience. Keeping thesecriteria in mind, recommendations have been madeto place public art pieces at some specific sites alongthe Parkway, specifically at gateway areas and activitynodes in order to maximise visibility, take advantageof these high traffic areas, and to help activate parts ofthe Parkway that have potential to become communitygathering places.Connections to the WaterThrough various public and stakeholder consultations,in addition to our site visits, it was identified thatthe SJAM Parkway has a tremendous potential forwater based interaction and incorporation along theParkway. A potential which was sought by highlightingand emphasizing through the design concepts.Opportunities for water-based interactions include,but are not limited to, cross river viewscapes, directpedestrian access, recreational access, leisure access,secluded and social mediums, and educationalactivities.pathway connections to the river edge, an improvedpublic beach, and river wall steps. The SJAM Parkwayshould include various small scale river lookouts inaddition to many larger, more distinct viewscapes. Theuse of wayfinding and signage strategies should informand direct users to these various locations so that theymay gain a better appreciation for both nature and thegem that is a natural riverside linear park adjacent tothe Canadian capital urban centre.The SJAM Parkway re-imagining includes opportunitiesfor individuals, children, families, regular users, andvisitors alike to rediscover a connection with water andnature.The re-imagining of the SJAM Parkway will includeopportunities through interactive signage to educateusers of the role the Ottawa River plays in Canada’shistory. New signage should also include educationalinformation in regards to the relation between theOttawa River, local wildlife, and the surroundingnatural ecosystems. Users of the corridor should beencouraged to physically interact with the waterthrough means of a new official kayak launch, new4-5

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALMikinàk PointChaudière LookoutMud LakeFigure 4.3 - Overview of the three feature site plans of Mud Lake, Mikinàk Point, and Chaudière Lookout.4-6

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL4.2 Feature Site PlansThree places along the SJAM Parkway were chosen asfeatured points along the corridor (Figure 4.3).Mud Lake Site PlanMud Lake, or more officially the Britannia ConservationArea, is a 79 hectare conservation area consisting ofwoodlands and wetlands. Within the overall design ofthe re-imagined SJAM Parkway (Figure 4.6 and 4.7), thislocation represents the ‘natural’ end within the ‘naturalto-urban’theme. Mud Lake is an ecologically importantand sensitive area, therefore design interventions in thislocation will be minimal, in keeping with the project goalof environmental sensitivity. The purpose of the designin this area is to create focal points that draw users toappropriate locations, situate users within the broadercontext of the SJAM Parkway, and to enhance the roleof Mud Lake as a place for environmental education andstewardship.During the fieldwork, it was observed that the woodlandswithin Mud Lake were laced with many informal trails.The creation of an elevated wooden boardwalk thatreplaces some of the existing formal trail and extendingthe pathway system to the pond will help control theroute users travel and minimize damage to ecologicallysensitive areas by creating a barrier to off-trailexploration. The boardwalk will also improve accessibilityfor those with mobility challenges (Figure 4.9). Tactileand interactive interpretation panels will allow usersto feel the bones of animal species and compare theirown ‘wing spans’ with those of birds in the area, helpingthem to develop a more intimate understanding of theMud Lake ecosystem (Figure 4.4). By providing a funand interesting element to the boardwalk experience,the interpretive panels will help provide a draw to thislocation.Figure 4.4 - An example of a tactile interpretation panel showingbutterfly metamorphosis with braille (Wildwood Studios LLC, 2007).Through the process of stakeholder analysis, it becameevident that Mud Lake is currently being used by manygroups as a place for environmental education. Anexample of this is the Sounds of Mud Lake project, inwhich a group of Regina Street Public School studentsrecreated the sounds they heard in the conservation areausing musical instruments. Environmental educationis the first step to instilling a sense of environmentalstewardship in the citizens of tomorrow, and providingopportunities for these activities will help achieve theproject goal of building connections to the community.In order to facilitate educational activities, the design forthis area includes an outdoor classroom (Figure 4.5).Figure 4.5 - An outdoor classroom at the Epping Forest Field Centrein Loughton, UK, was used as inspiration for an outdoor educationalarea at Mud Lake (Tripadvisor, 2009).Signage emerged as a concern for this area during theSWOC analysis and stakeholder interviews. Currently,wayfinding signage in this area is confusing and makesit difficult for users to locate themselves within theParkway and to amenity locations and transit hubs. Inaddition to this, Mud Lake lacks an official gateway. Arustic entranceway feature made from natural materialwill be situated at the entrance of the boardwalk towelcome users to the area and to signify the importanceof Mud Lake (Figure 4.8). Wayfinding signage that areconsistent with the guidelines in Appendix H will beincorporated into the site in order to help users navigatethe area and to link it to other locations along thecorridor. Using consistent signage will also help achievethe goal of providing a cohesive identity for the corridor.4-7

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 4.6 - Functional analysis of the Mud Lake area.Figure 4.7 - Site plan of the Mud Lake area.4-8

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALMikinàk Point (Champlain Bridge Area) SitePlanThe Champlain Bridge is a major gateway betweenQuébec and Ontario and connects the communities ofOttawa and Gatineau. Pedestrian paths, bicycle paths,and two different automobile routes provide differentmethods of entry into the area. The purpose of the designin this area is to create a space that appeals to a widervariety of uses, provides amenities that will encouragepeople to enjoy the corridor, and to bring more users tothe Champlain Bridge area, now Mikinàk Point, to enjoythe beautiful scenic views (Figure 4.10 and 4.11).This area performs a dual gateway function, bringingpeople back and forth from Gatineau as well as leadingfrom the west end of Ottawa to Parliament Hill. Thedesign for this area capitalizes on this opportunity byincluding an avenue of maple trees along the Parkway andPathway to the South-West of the bridge entranceway(Figure 4.12). This avenue will provide a big reveal for allusers of the transportation ways and will act as a veryvisible symbol of Canadian identity, particularly in thefall when the maple leaves turn a fiery red. This elementachieves the project objective of expressing our nationalidentity along the Parkway. These trees will also provideshade and habitat along the Parkway while demonstratinga commitment to long-term environmental stewardship.Figure 4.8 - Perspective of proposed gateway feature at Mud Lake.The decision to rename the area Mikinàk Point providesanother point where the Parkway acknowledges itsAlgonquin heritage. This heritage will also be referencedby an interpretive, interactive children’s playground thatwill be created close to the water’s edge (Figure 4.13).4-9

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL4-10Figure 4.9 - Perspective of proposed elevated boardwalk in the Mud Lake area in the winter season.

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 4.10 - Functional analysis of Mikinàk Point.Using natural materials to complement the landscape,the playground will be simple in terms of activities butwill have a connection to first nations and early colonialhistory of the area.An issue that emerged during stakeholder interviewswith regard to this location was that some users feltunsafe in this area because tree cover creates a sense ofenclosure and screens it from the roadway. Removingtrees along the shoreline immediately adjacentto the bridge will open up views into this amenityspace, increasing use, safety, and allowing road usersFigure 4.11 - Site plan of Mikinàk Point.crossing the bridge to enjoy the playground’s largescalesculptural elements. In keeping with the projectgoal of environmental sensitivity, where tree removaloccurs the shoreline will be restored using low-growingvegetation.Along with this playground is a proposed pavilionwith bathrooms and a picnic area. This building,known as the Mikinàk Point Park Amenity Pavilion,will follow the natural contour of the landscape andbe built into the land (Figure 4.14). This pavilion willprovide important amenities for users of the park andan architecturally interesting element. The inclusionof a pavilion with bathrooms in this area meets theneed for amenities identified during the charretteand stakeholder interviews. This ensures that Parkwayusers are comfortable, and the creation of a distinctivelandmark provides a draw and contributes to the goalof enhancing identity.4-11

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALExisting Mixed Wood Forest Bike ROW Maple ArchwayEastbound LaneWestbound LaneMaple Lane Existing Sidewalk Existing Mixed Wood Forest0.4m 7.4m0.4m 9m 0.4m 3.7m3.7m 0.4m 3m 2mShoulderShoulderShoulderShoulderFigure 4.12 - Perspective of the proposed Maple Avenue along Mikinàk Point.4-12

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 4.13 - Mikinàk Point playground, a proposed low-intensity development playground.4-13

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL4-14Figure 4.14 - Proposed Mikinàk Point Park Amenity Pavilion.

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALChaudière Lookout (Parkdale Loop) Site PlanThe Parkdale Loop area, re-imagined as ChaudièreLookout, is a point with beautiful views of Gatineau Parkto the northwest, and a strong link to the urban fabricof Canada’s Capital to the south. In our re-imagining ofthe area, we seek to provide a space that engages usersin both active and passive activities and which respondsappropriately to intensification pressures along itssouthern border. The removal of the trumpet interchangedramatically increases both the amount of space and thetypes of activities that can occur in this location. Takingadvantage of this, the concept for Chaudière Lookoutinvolves a number of components designed to enhancethe views, connect users to the water, and to provide anall-season recreation space.The major component of the concept for this site wasinspired by the design features of the Potters FieldPark Pavillion in London, UK (Figure 4.15) and it is theChaudière Park Pavilion (Figure 4.17). The pavilion willinclude a cafe, washroom facilities, a picnic area, andwill function as a slightly elevated viewing platform. Thepavilion responds to the need identified in the charretteand stakeholder interviews for interesting places to goalong the Parkway, and to the desire expressed by severalparticipants for there to be places to sit and eat. It willbe designed to reflect the industrial heritage of the site,achieving the project objective of promoting knowledgeand understanding of Canadian history and culture. Theside of the pavilion facing the river will be glass to allowfor unobstructed views and for people to enjoy theFigure 4.15 - Potters Field Park Pavilionin London, UK was designed to create a‘charred timber’ appearance, similar to thefacade of the proposed Chaudière Lookoutbuilding (First Year Studio T, 2010).sights across theriver regardless ofthe weather.Adjacent to thepavilion will be awading pool. Inthe summer, thewading pool willprovide a safe andaccessible placefor residents andvisitors to cool theirfeet while enjoyingthe beautiful views.In the winter, thewading pond willbecome an iceskating rink. Thiswill achieve in thissite the objectiveof making theSJAM Parkway a place to go regardless of the season. Alow sculpture, such as a brass spotted turtle, will occupythe centre of the pond (Figure 4.18). Art placed in thislocation will add to the character of this facility, givingusers the sense that they have arrived at a special place.Using a sculpture of an animal that is found in the OttawaRiver will help connect users to the water and provide anopportunity for environmental education.Inspired by the Samuel de Champlain Parkway in Quebec,the green space surrounding the pavilion will be lacedwith pathways laid out in a geometric pattern. Using thelandscape as art in this way will provide a frame for theviews while controlling foot traffic in what is intended tobe a high-volume area. Most importantly, the creationof a unique and visually interesting landscape will drawpeople to what should be one of the signature placesalong the SJAM Parkway (Figure 4.19).Figure 4.16 - A river wall with steps leading to the water wouldincrease access and interaction with the Ottawa River, as seenby this example from Québec City (Commission de la capitalenationale du Québec, 2008).The River Wall located to the north of the Chaudière ParkPavilion is a place where rough-hewn boulders provideterraced seating along the very edge of the Ottawa River(Figure 4.16). Here visitors to the site will be able to sit -perhaps with a picnic lunch or a coffee from the PavilionCafe - and enjoy the view, or fish, or simply sun themselveson the rocks while listening to the water rush by.4-15

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALFigure 4.17 - Elevation of the proposed Chaudière Park Pavilion which includes the river wall seating features as well as washroom facilities and cafe.4-16

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALLastly, a large multipurpose field will be created towardthe southern side of the site. The field will provide spacefor both programmed events and spontaneous play.This area will be bordered by a structured seating areathat echoes the geometric pathway from the pavilionarea, but in a more sinuous, natural way. Also includedin this area is a small amphitheatre. The intention ofthis site is to provide maximum flexibility. While all ofthe elements have independent functions, they canalso work together to provide a medium-sized venuesuitable for smaller musical events, plays, or movienights in the park.Figure 4.18 - Perspective of the proposed ice skating rink in the winter season. In the summer season, it becomes a wading pool.4-17

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL4-18Figure 4.19 - Proposed landmark seating laid out in a geometric pattern that uses the landscape as art.

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL4.3 ProgrammingCreating destinations within the Parkway is only onepiece of the puzzle: giving people a range of activitiesto do once they reach the Parkway is the other. Researchhas shown that providing programmed activities andevents is an even greater determinant of park use thanpark design (Cohen, et al., 2009; Cohen, et al., 2010).Park programming in the context of the SJAM Parkwaywill provide the following benefits:• Introduce the Parkway to new users• Provide a draw for non-traditional park users• Give users a reason to come back• Generate activity throughout the differentseasons• Distribute users throughout the park• Increase safety by creating more positive use• Promote healthy lifestyles in the community• Shape and strengthen the identity of the parkAdditionally, allowing residents to propose and runprograms in the park will give adjacent communitiesand residents a sense of ownership and stewardshipover the Parkway.Programming on the Parkway should be seasonallydistributed and varied in order to prevent overuse inone particular area of the park, while also providingprogramming for several different segments of thepopulation. One strategy to help implement a varietyof programming is to focus on four separate programareas:1) Arts and cultural activities - The SJAM Parkwayis presently a beautiful, scenic area, a site of severalcultural focal points such as the stone sculptures atRemic Rapids. Our programming aims to emphasisethis focus on Canadian culture, specifically on thedifferent experiences and memories that can be createdand enjoyed by citizens of Ottawa and all Canadiansthrough regular programs and special events.2) Sports and recreation - The Parkway offers a lotof unstructured leisure space for cycling and walking,but there is definitely an opportunity to provide morestructured programming such as walking or runningclubs, or sporting programs like lawn bowling thatdo not require additional infrastructure. This type ofprogramming is an effective method of making parkvisits fun, without occupying valuable park space withspecialised areas for competitive sports.3) Historical programming - Programming, andespecially annual or seasonal events, are a great way toencourage park users’ interest in the history, not onlyof the area that the Parkway is built on and nearby, butalso Canada’s history, specifically promoting Sir JohnA. Macdonald’s role, along with the other Fathers ofConfederation, in the original confederation of Canada.4) Environmental programming -The environmentand its protection and conservation is a major focalpoint of the Parkway, and the scenic views and wildcharacteristics of the different areas of the Parkway,specifically Mud Lake, lend themselves to events andprograms that could both educate and excite thepublic, while helping to instill a sense of stewardship forthe Ottawa River. Schools already use Mud Lake as anoutdoor classroom, and providing public programmingto teach children about conservation is one step towardtomorrow’s citizens maintaining natural spaces.Program areas were determined public engagement,researching park and Parkway precedents, and lookingat what is already available in Ottawa in order tomaximise use and avoid redundant programming.A large component of the implementation forthis section will be building awareness of thedifferent types of programs as well as communityinvestment through user-created programming.4-19

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALType of Programming When BenefitsArt ExhibitionOne to two weekends inthe summerWill draw many users to a long section of the ParkwayAmateur Ice Sculpting WorkshopFebruaryPotential integration withWinterludeWill provide a draw during the coldest monthShakespeare in the Park(Figure 4.20)Summer-longWill draw medium sized crowds to featured places along theParkwayWarming Hut Design CompetitionWinter-longWill provide opportunity for a signature organized event, whilealso providing additional interest along the Parkway during wintermonthsFigure 4.20 - Shakespeare in the Park at High Rock Park, NewYork (Dziemianowicz & Anglis, 2014).Groomed Sports Field Year-round Will provide a year-round flexible activity spaceGroomed Cross Country Ski andSnowshoe TrailsWinter-longWill provide a season-long activity space that will encouragephysical activitySkating Pond and Skate RentalsDecember to MarchWill provide a season-long activity that will regularly draw usersto one of the signature destinations along the ParkwaySir John A. Macdonald’s Birthday(Figure 4.21)Séance with William Lyon MackenzieKing – Storytelling sessionsJanuaryHalloweenA temporary public art competition that will annually provide afresh focal point along the ParkwayA lighthearted reference to a colourful moment in Canada’s history,an opportunity to bring people to one of the destinations along theParkway, and an opportunity to involve the community. Will drawsmall groups to a signature destination along the ParkwayFigure 4.21 - Sir John A. Macdonald’s Birthday celebration inKingston, Ontario (SALON Theatre Productions, 2014).Outdoor ClassroomYear-roundIn conjunction with interpretive signage, the Outdoor Classroomwill provide space for community groups with an interest in thenatural heritage of the Parkway to hold group education sessions.It will draw small groups to the Mud Lake area4-20Guided Nature Walk(Figure 4.22)Year-roundGuided nature walks can provide the Mud Lake Area with yearroundenvironmental programming. It will draw small groups tothe environmentally sensitive areaFigure 4.22 - Guided nature walk at the University ofWisconsin-Madison Arboretum (Judge, 2001).

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALReferencesCohen, D. A., Golinelli, D., Williamson, S., Sehgal, A., Marsh, T., &McKenzie, T. L. (2009). Effects of Park Improvements onPark Use and Physical Activity: Policy and ProgrammingImplications. American Journal of Preventative Medicine,37(6), 475-480.Wildwood Studios LLC. (2007). Sculptures and Reproductions.Retrieved from Wildwood Studios LLC: http://www.thewildwoodstudios.com/sculpture.htmlCohen, D. A., Marsh, T., Williamson, S., Pitkin Derose, K., Martinez,H., Setodji, C., & McKenzie, T. L. (2010). Parks and physicalactivity: Why are some parks used more than others?Journal of Preventative Medicine, S9-S12.Commission de la capitale nationale du Québec. (2008, June 13).Quai-des-Hommes. Retrieved from Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/capitalenationale/3629306313/Dziemianowicz, J., & Anglis, J. (2014, July 24). Shakespeare inthe parks, in Staten Island and Brooklyn. Retrieved fromNew York Daily News: http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/theater-arts/shakespeare-parks-statenisland-brooklyn-article-1.1878952First Year Studio T. (2010, May 18). Potters Field Park Pavilion.Retrieved from Magnified: London MetropolitanUniversity, Department of Architecture andSpatial Design: https://firstyearstudiot.wordpress.com/2010/05/18/potters-field-park-pavilions/Judge, S. (2001). Arboretum: Guided Nature Walk. Retrieved fromUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison: http://photos.uc.wisc.edu/photos/1214/viewSALON Theatre Productions. (2014). Sir John A. Macdonald Week.Retrieved from SirJohnA2015: http://www.sirjohna2015.ca/Traffic Engineering Council Committee 5A-5. (1998). Design andSafety of Pedestrian Facilities. Washington, D.C.: Instituteof Transportation Engineers.Tripadvisor. (2009, April). Outdoor Classroom - Picture of EppingForest Field Centre, Loughton. Retrieved from Tripadvisor:http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLinkg1809078-d946783-i19427869-Epping_Forest_Field_Centre-Loughton_Essex_England.html4-21

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RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL5.0 DESIGN ANDIMPLEMENTATIONFRAMEWORKThe conceptual designs presented for the re-imaginationof the SJAM Parkway are supported by design guidelines,policy recommendations, a broad implementation andphasing strategy, as well as a general managementplan. These are outlined in more details in AppendixH. A list of various design guidelines, implementationstrategies, and management plans that were referredto are identified in Appendix I. These were supportedby a broad implementation timeline (Figure 5.1).GoalThe goal of these recommended guidelines andstrategies is to execute the conceptual design presentedfor the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway in a phasedmanner with measurable objectives that respects thecorridor’s ecological integrity and re-imagines thepotential of the Capital corridor. The design elements,landscaping features, and built forms outlined in theconceptual design should also aim to be designed,sited, and implemented in such a way as to project theessence of a Capital Parkway and identity. Furthermore,they should strive to be of high-quality materialsand performance standards to ensure durability andlongevity. This goal further extends to maintenanceand management, where the aim will be to managethe corridor such that financial prudence is exhibitedand the highest standards of sustainability and qualityare met. To further facilitate the re-imagining of theSJAM Parkway, supporting policies are outlined andsubsequent recommendations are formulated for NCCconsideration.Presented to the right are the collective designguidelines; policy recommendations; implementationand phasing strategies with their measurableobjectives; and, management plans classified underfour overarching themes. Moreover, each themeconsists of listed objectives that aim to achieve thetheme’s visions for the SJAM Parkway.Identity GuidelinesAs a collective, the design guidelines, policyrecommendations, implementation and phasingstrategies, as well as management plan will aim tomeet the objectives of Goal 1 of Section 3.2.Community GuidelinesAs a collective, the design guidelines, policyrecommendations, implementation and phasingstrategies, as well as management plan will aim tomeet the objectives of Goal 2 of Section 3.2.Environmental Sensitivity GuidelinesAs a collective, the design guidelines, policyrecommendations, implementation and phasingstrategies, as well as management plan will aim tomeet the objectives of Goal 3 of Section 3.2.Recreation GuidelinesAs a collective, the design guidelines, policyrecommendations, implementation and phasingstrategies, as well as management plan will aim tomeet the objectives of Goal 4 of Section 3.2.5-1

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALDesign FeaturesShort Term(within 5 years)Medium Term(6 - 10 years)Long Term(more than 10 years)1It is recommended that the implementation of interpretive signagewithin the Mud Lake area coincide with the implementation of theElevated Wooden Boardwalk.Gateway Features (Western and Eastern Nodes)Public ArtParkway AmenitiesElevated Wooden BoardwalkEducational Signage 1LandscapingMikinàk Point PlaygroundLocal EventsMaple Avenue 2Programming 3View Corridor Protection 4Pedestrian CrossingsNeighbourhood Gateways 5Wayfinding and SignageWestbound Lane Conversion 6Geometric Green Path 7Cycling InfrastructureWading Pool and Skating RinkRiver Wall and Seating AreaLighting 82The planting of Maple Avenue shall coincide with the phasing of theWestbound Lane Conversion.3Initiate plans for programming of national significance in the shortterm, including Canada’s 150th anniversary celebration in Ottawa.4In the short term, it is recommended that any new programmingor development initiatives respect view corridors identified in thedraft Capital Urban Lands Plan (2014) and the Urban Lands MasterPlan Ottawa River Parkway Corridor Visual Assessment (2006). Inthe medium term, conduct new visual assessments to update theseplans.5It is recommended that the siting, design, and implementation ofNeighbourhood Gateways occur during a similar time period as thesiting, design, and implementation of the Pedestrian Crossings. Thiswould ensure design and implementation consistency as well as anefficient use of resources.6Assessments of the roadway along the SJAM Parkway can begin inthe short term, however the phasing out of the westbound lane forvehicular use and phasing in of a dedicated cycling path shall occurover the medium to long term.7The implementation of the Geometric Green Path is recommendedto coincide with the phasing of the Westbound Lane Conversion inorder to make efficient use of resources.Figure 5.1 - Broad implementation timeline which outlines each proposed design feature as well as an estimated implementation timeframe.8Due to the sensitivity of the SJAM Parkway to migratory birds aswell as availability of servicing, extra care should be taken throughappropriate environmental assessments.5-2

RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITALReferencesNational Capital Commission. (2006). Urban Lands Master PlanOttawa River Parkway Corridor Visual Assessment.Ottawa: National Capital Commission.National Capital Commission. (2014). Capital Urban Lands Plan,draft. Ottawa: National Capital Commission.5-3

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RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL6.0 IMPLICATIONS ANDCONCLUSIONSThe SJAM Parkway should be a place to create memories,protect environmentally-sensitive ecosystems, engagein leisure and recreation opportunities and, mostimportantly, a destination that draws Ottawans,Canadians, and people from around the world. Throughthe collective work undertaken by the SURP 824 projectteam and the NCC, this report provides direction anda framework for the SJAM Parkway to evolve into awaterfront linear park and a gateway into the CapitalCore Area.Field work, extensive research and analysis, charretteand visioning exercises, and stakeholder interviewsfacilitated the re-design of the SJAM Parkway asCanada’s Parkway. The design elements proposedfor the corridor reflect the needs of the surroundingcommunities and environment. As a result, the adoptionof the ‘Natural to Urban’ principle is a way to highlightand enhance existing features along the corridor, aswell as a method of incorporating new elements whilemaintaining the character of the SJAM Parkway. Thisprinciple also aims to guide future decisions made forthe SJAM Parkway and help preserve its unique qualities.Overall, the design guidelines, policy recommendations,implementation plan, and management strategiescreated for the SJAM Parkway address four identifiedgoals – identity, community, environmental sensitivity,and recreation.The ultimate goal for the SJAM Parkway is to putthe “park” back into the “parkway”. The followingconcluding take-away points should be taken intoconsideration for the corridor’s next steps:Destination for the public’s enjoymentRather than the SJAM Parkway continuing to serveprimarily as a commuter roadway, the corridorshould evolve into a destination and gathering spotfor everyone to enjoy. This would entail focusing onways to enhance the recreational opportunities andamenities of the area, such as through the adoption ofpolicies that are more explicit in this regard. In addition,by identifying strategies that increase safe communityaccessibility and connectivity to the waterfront, theSJAM Parkway can be transformed into a space thatdraws in a diverse range of users, including bothresidents and visitors.Environmental preservation andenhancementWhile there are numerous opportunities for the SJAMParkway to transform into a point of destination forthe public, it is important to preserve its environmentaland ecological integrity. Consequently, care needs tobe taken to ensure that the SJAM Parkway’s uniquefeatures are maintained as well as enhanced. Ashighlighted from the interviews, the corridor is anetwork of greenspace in the heart of Ottawa that is anirreplaceable asset.Collaboration and partnershipsGiven that the re-imagination of the SJAM Parkwayinvolves many components and tasks, focusing oncollaboration and establishing partnerships with otherjurisdictions and organizations is essential. A number ofexisting policy documents already encourage or supportinter-jurisdictional collaboration. However, realizingmany of the initiatives and strategies proposed in thisreport, ranging from implementing neighbourhoodgateways to showcasing public art displays, rely onestablishing strengthening partnerships with externalagencies and groups.We hope that our design of the Sir John A. MacdonaldParkway has excited you to re-imagine your urban gemand pursue the potential for transforming the corridorinto a postcard destination.Figure 6.1 - A proposed postcard of one of the top ten “must-see”destinations in Ottawa - the re-imagined Sir John A. MacdonaldParkway.6-1

6-2RE-IMAGINING THE SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD PARKWAY - A LINEAR PARK FOR CANADA’S CAPITAL