City of Ottawa

Published purpose

The Hartwells Locks are currently a major crossing for pedestrians and Cyclists over the historic Rideau Canal. This crossing falls along an important desire line for cyclists and pedestrians with Carleton University and major Canal/Rideau River Pathways representing major destinations separated by the Canal. The proposed study would provide an accessible, level crossing eliminating steps- and accommodating all users comfortably. A major AT barrier to accessibility would be removed at relatively low cost (as compared with the $21M nearby Flora Bridge also spanning the Rideau Canal). The strategy would be to provide a short (10m), deployable ramp that can be moved in place when the locks are closed (presenting no new obstacle to marine traffic using the Canal).