ByWard Market pilot project sees William Street become pedestrian-friendly

New pedestrian-friendly spaces are opening in the ByWard Market.

Wiliam Street is the home to one of two pilot projects this summer that attempts to expand spaces for pedestrian use.

The project was inspired by ideas coming out of the ByWard Market Public Realm Study.

The street will be closed to vehicles until the fall, and will allow pedestrians a place to sit, stay and relax in the new William Street Pedestrian Plaza. 

The plaza stretches from George Street to York Street and will now provides more green spaces, seating, activities for children and space for entertainment.

The second location is on Clarence Street, between Parent Avenue and Dalhousie Street.

Local business owners are also 'sprucing' up the neighbourhood to make it a more inviting pedestrian experience. 

“The ByWard Market is one of the city's great destinations for both visitors and residents,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “I'm pleased that we were able to work with Ottawa Markets and local business owners to make this vibrant neighbourhood even more pedestrian-friendly.”

These pilot projects are a chance to try easy, innovative ways to get more people in the Market, before making long-term investments to renew the streets.

“William Street will, for the summer, be a place for people. To walk, to sit, to enjoy the heart of the City. It will be free of cars and parking,” said Peter Hume, Chair of Ottawa Markets.”It will be a summer home for people.”