Hi neighbour,
Honouring Elsa Lessard (July 2, 1922- July 22, 2025)
I would like to take a moment to honour the life and legacy of Elsa Lessard, a Bay Ward resident who passed away on Tuesday, July 22 at the age of 103. Since enlisting in the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service (WRCNS) during the Second World War in 1943, Elsa worked tirelessly to increase public awareness of women’s contributions during the Second World War and dedicated her life to honouring the sacrifice of those whoe died during the Battle of the Atlantic. You can read more about Elsa’s significant contributions on the Veterans Affairs website. I would like to extend my sympathies to Elsa’s loved ones, and shine a light on the important work she did throughout her extraordinary life.
Pausing the newsletter
After a busy start to the summer, we’ll be pausing the newsletter for the next few weeks. Our office will also be closed on August 1 and August 8, but will be open for questions and inquiries throughout the rest of the summer.
National Drowning Prevention Week (July 20-26)
On Monday, July 21, I attended the flag raising ceremony at City Hall for National Drowning Prevention Week, with my colleagues Councillor Desroches and Councillor Luloff, and representatives from the National Lifesaving Society, Ottawa Police, Fire Services, Paramedics, and the City’s Aquatics program. This year’s theme is “Safer together”, underlining the role we can all play in water safety. After the ceremony, I spoke with CTV news about the work we’re doing with partners across the community to improve signage and educate the public about the dangers of currents and rapids near Britannia Beach. I’d also like to thank our partners at the City of Ottawa summer camps and Paramedic services for their work in organizing some upcoming water safety presentations to kids at summer camps in our neighbourhood.
Transportation Master Plan at City Council
It was a packed agenda for our last Council meeting before the summer break this week. I was happy to approve the Transportation Master Plan (TMP), which will guide the development of our city’s transportation system (roads, rail, bus, and active transport) for the next 20 years. This plan represents years of work and consultation, and although I support the plan, I will continue to advocate for more funding for local projects here in Bay Ward- including sidewalks, safer streets, and better cycling infrastructure. We need safe, convenient, active transportation routes to our new Stage 2 LRT stations in Bay Ward. I will continue to work with colleagues across Council and the City to improve transportation options for all Bay Ward residents so they can safely travel throughout our city.
Road Closures in Bay Ward
Finally, I want to acknowledge that it’s been a busy week for road closures and construction in Bay Ward. In particular, I want to thank the residents of the Woodroffe North Community for their patience and advocacy as we ensure adequate signage and detours are in place for the closure of Woodroffe Ave north of Richmond. I also want to thank community members who shared feedback on the Carling Ave closure for the removal of the CN Rail Bridge. As always, our office is here to help. If you have suggestions or questions relating to road closures, or anything in Bay Ward, please send them to: bayward@ottawa.ca.
Thanks, and let’s continue to look out for each other this summer.😊
Read this week’s newsletter for the latest neighbourhood news and events, including information about Ottawa’s first Ironman Race, starting bright and early in Britannia Park on August 3rd.
