Listen to this article
Estimated 2 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
The National Capital Commission (NCC) has approved planning and design principles for a sixth interprovincial link between Ottawa and Gatineau, but construction remains years away.
The project would connect a corridor from Highway 50 and Montée Paiement in Gatineau, Que., to the Aviation Parkway in Ottawa and eventually Highway 417, with the aim of diverting truck traffic from Ottawa’s downtown core.
The NCC’s board of directors received an update on the project and approved the planning and design principles document on Tuesday.
NCC staff divided the 11-kilometre corridor into five segments:
Montée Paiement between Highway 50 and Maloney Boulevard.Montée Paiement south of Maloney Boulevard to the shore of the Ottawa River.The bridge spanning the Ottawa River with an alignment still to be determined.Aviation Parkway from the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway to the north of Ogilvie Road.Ogilvie Road to the interchange with highway 417 and 174.
The planning and design document sketches out a variety of options for dividing the right of way between general traffic, transit, cycling and pedestrian uses.
A diagram showing possible designs for road use along the corridor of the proposed sixth interprovincial bridge over the Ottawa River. (National Capital Commission)
Staff said the different segments reflect the local geography, planning priorities and road uses in those areas.
The staff presentation also noted key approval milestones for achieving a 2034 opening, notably approving the corridor and part of the schematic design next year, with the final design by 2029.
Public Services and Procurement Canada is the lead agency on the project.