Part of key roadway to be closed in Alta Vista area

Ottawa commuters will need to find a new way through a south Ottawa neighbourhood, since construction will be forcing a partial closure for the whole summer.

Phase 1 of the Bank Street renewal project is starting June 1, which is focused on a portion of Heron Road in Ottawa’s Alta Vista community. The project includes the replacement of water mains, sanitary and storm sewers. Road and sidewalk reconstruction, with the addition of a cycle track, new lighting and traffic signals, is expected.

The City of Ottawa says there will be detours in place to direct people to Walkley Road and the eastern portion of Heron Road throughout the construction.

It is anticipated these closures to be in place until Aug. 31.

Bank Street will continue to be reduced to one lane in each direction from Riverside Drive to Collins Avenue.

OC Transpo routes 41, 92, 689, and 698 are impacted and have alternative bus stops. Pedestrians will be able to walk through the area throughout the construction, cyclists will have to dismount.

Bank Street revitalization

“The vision for the Bank Street renewal is to construct a functioning and safe arterial main street with a well-balanced multi-modal transportation network which will cater to vehicles, transit, cyclists and pedestrians,” the municipality said.

During the first year of construction, work focused on the stretch between Riverside Drive (westbound) and the Bélanger Avenue/Lamira Street intersection. Project limits are between Riverside Drive (North) to Ledbury Avenue — approximately 2.8 kilometres.

The project is located in Ward 16 (River), Ward 17 (Capital) and Ward 18 (Alta Vista).

While access to local businesses will continue, the city is encouraging residents and visitors to continue supporting Bank Street and area businesses during construction.