National Capital Commission Transforms Ottawa’s Urban Swimming Scene

The National Capital Commission (NCC) is on a mission to reshape Ottawa’s image as a vibrant urban swimming destination. Following the launch of a new swimming dock at Dow’s Lake, NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum highlighted a significant change in the organization’s approach to public spaces. The dock was inaugurated in June 2023, marking a pivotal moment in the city’s efforts to promote water-based recreation.

The NCC’s commitment to revitalizing Ottawa’s waterways is not new. Over the past few years, significant investments have been made, beginning with the $20 million restoration of River House, which attracted over 36,000 visitors within its first months. This enthusiasm for urban swimming has continued, bolstered by the successful redevelopment of Westboro Beach, a $21 million initiative co-funded by the NCC and the city.

Despite some initial skepticism regarding the safety of swimming in Dow’s Lake, testing has shown that the water quality is among the cleanest in the region. The dock’s opening has sparked a debate about the NCC’s historical reputation for caution and bureaucracy. The introduction of this unsupervised swimming area challenges long-held beliefs about Ottawa’s waterways and reflects a shift toward embracing more innovative recreational options.

Embracing Change and Innovation

Architect Toon Dreessen, president of Architects DCA in Ottawa, expressed his support for the new dock, comparing it to initiatives in cities like Paris that have successfully integrated swimming into urban life. Dreessen noted that this transformation is key to altering how residents perceive their city and its relationship with water.

The NCC’s willingness to take risks, as evidenced by the dock’s launch, signifies a departure from its traditional image. This shift is further illustrated by various ongoing projects, including the redesign of Kiweki Point, which celebrates both Indigenous and settler histories, and improvements to access points around the city’s waterways.

Nussbaum emphasized the importance of a nimble approach to project development, stating, “The Dow’s Lake dock was an opportunity to pilot a different model of swimming.” This model allows for faster and less costly implementations, encouraging experimentation with public spaces. The NCC also plans to introduce floating saunas on the Ottawa River, further diversifying recreational options.

Public Engagement and Community Impact

The NCC is actively seeking public input and collaboration as part of its strategy to enhance community engagement. Nussbaum has fostered a culture of openness within the organization, encouraging staff to pursue creative ideas without the constraints of excessive bureaucracy. He noted, “We are letting 1,000 flowers bloom,” aiming to create dynamic and interesting public spaces throughout the capital.

This cultural shift has been underway since before Nussbaum’s appointment in 2017, marked by increased transparency and public consultations. The NCC is the only Crown corporation with open meetings, reinforcing its commitment to being responsive to community needs.

Despite the progress, conflicts have arisen, such as the recent debate over whether sections of Queen Elizabeth Drive should remain closed to vehicles. Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and Nussbaum publicly discussed the implications of this decision, highlighting the ongoing tension between local needs and the NCC’s vision.

The NCC’s history of controversial projects has led to criticism, yet recent developments indicate a renewed focus on collaboration and innovation. With the signing of a land-sale agreement for the redevelopment of LeBreton Flats, the NCC aims to create thousands of new housing units, including affordable options, along with vibrant spaces for cafes and galleries.

As Nussbaum reflects on the future of the prime minister’s residence at 24 Sussex Drive, he expresses optimism for renewed progress under the new government. He believes that the NCC is well-positioned to improve Ottawa’s public realm, drawing from lessons learned during the pandemic that encouraged cities to adapt and innovate quickly.

In summary, the NCC’s evolving approach to urban swimming and public space development is transforming Ottawa into a city that embraces its waterways. As cities worldwide, such as Copenhagen and Zurich, have successfully integrated swimming into urban life, Ottawa is beginning to follow suit, offering residents and visitors alike an opportunity to engage with their environment in new and meaningful ways.