We love Westboro

WCA has a new website

2008-03-11T14:33:00.003-04:00

Check it out at www.westborovillage.ca - and don't forget to update your bookmarks.

Thank you!

Working towards a greener Westboro

2008-03-05T09:09:00.005-05:00

The Green Partnership Program has funds available for local community associations, service clubs, non-profit groups, local Business Improvement Agencies, and community members to undertake environmental enhancement or beautification projects on public properties. The program supports a broad range of clean and green environmentally focused projects such as: establishing wildflower meadows, butterfly habitats, restoration of natural habitat, installation of educational signs, designing and planting a floral display or community garden, schoolyard greening, and more! Deadline to apply for program funding is April 15, 2008.

The WCA is applying for this funding. What we'd like to know is this: what area(s) of Westboro do you think could use some "greening" ? Please post your ideas in the comments below. Thank you!

update on Golden closure

2008-03-04T09:19:00.001-05:00

As a follow-up to our December letter regarding the possible closure of Golden Avenue between Richmond and Byron, I and WCA vice-chair Cherolyn Knapp recently met with Councillor Leadman to clarify the status of this proposal.

We are able to confirm that:

Bourk Family Developments (owners of Westboro Station) do not intend to proceed with their application to close the street at this time.
No other closure applications for Golden Avenue are currently on the table or in the pipeline.
In the near future the Councillor intends to use funds from her office to sponsor an analysis of the transportation impacts of any future closing. This study will take into account the issues and recommendations already identified in the Westboro/Highland/McKellar Park Area Traffic Management Study which is nearing completion.

Wallace Beaton
WCA Chair

Committee of Adjustment Mar 5, 2008

2008-02-28T10:13:00.003-05:00

There are two applications for minor variances being heard by the Committee of Adjustment on March 5th. One is for 348 Tweedsmuir Ave for a reduced side yard and the other is for 487 Evered for a reduced front yard. If you have objections or concerns about either of these please contact us before Mar 5th.

Gary Ludington

Symposium on the Ottawa Official Plan

2008-02-26T09:55:00.002-05:00

How should the City balance intensification with the Community’s vision?
How should the City ensure they respect those responsibilities?

Date: Saturday March 1st
Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Auditorium of Nepean High school, 574 Broadview Ave

Parking is limited. Please consider ridesharing, walking, or taking public transit.

The City of Ottawa will be reviewing the Official Plan in the year to come (Official Plan, Transportation Master Plan, Infrastructure Master Plan, Community Design Plans).

The white papers are on the review are available at: http://ottawa.ca/residents/public_consult/beyond_2020/index_en.html

Design Lansdowne

2008-02-19T15:25:00.002-05:00

The City of Ottawa has launched Design Lansdowne, a design competition that will create a bold, new vision for the 40-acre site adjacent to the historic Rideau Canal. This competition will tap into the insights of design professionals to revitalize Lansdowne Park in a way that maximizes the public benefit in the most economically feasible manner. The entire process will include extensive public consultation.

Read more about it - and how you can be involved - on the City of Ottawa website.

The City of Ottawa 2008 Planning Primer Program

2008-02-14T08:44:00.001-05:00

The City of Ottawa Planning, Transit and the Environment Department is offering a Planning Primer Program to help residents become more aware of, and more involved in, the land-use planning process.

More information is available on the City of Ottawa website.

Goodbye groceries

2008-01-30T22:04:00.000-05:00

Westboro Market has closed its doors and papered over the windows. I guess they gave it their best but couldn't make a go of it...

Did you shop there? And will you miss it?

Committee of Adjustment Jan 16, 2008

2008-01-18T09:34:00.001-05:00

On Jan 16 the Committee of Adjustment heard 4 applications of interest to our neighbourhood:

1. Westboro Station condo - there were 3 minor variances requested and none had to do with the closing of Golden Ave. Because the notice for this meeting was attached to the sign for the closing a number of people came to the meeting just in case it was about Golden. It wasn't. I label the changes as housekeeping and they were granted. Howevere keep your eyes open - there will be new applications forthcoming.

2. 269 Avondale - an application for this site was heard late in 2007 and was adjourned for a new application. The application was for the creation of 4 lots with no minor variances on which they plan to build 2 semis. The application was granted.

3. 349 Avondale - an application to demolish the existing garage and to build a new attached garage to accomodate a specially equipped van. The application was granted.

4. 376 Winona - an application to create 3 lots all of which were non conforming. This application was opposed by several neighbours and the WCA. The application was postponed sine die and we suggested to the agent for the applicant they meet with the community before coming back with a new application. As a matter of interest there are at least 7 homes on Winona that have been here for at least 100 years.

Councillor Leadman's response to the WCA

2008-01-15T09:08:00.000-05:00

One December 14 2007, the WCA sent an email to Councillor Leadman with concerns about the potential closure of Golden Avenue. You can read the full text of that letter here.

Here is her response (dated January 14 2008):

The meeting that was held was the first public meeting in order to receive feedback on the issue. Like any public consultation comments are taken back, plans amended to address concerns that were brought forward. There was a good crowd out that night and recognize that there was significant contingent from The Exchange. The show of hands is based on the plan that was presented that evening. Once again, a revised plan will be presented which may not have the same results.

As stated that evening the traffic diversion component will be reviewed and studied and the results will be provided. In addition, there are no final recommendations that have been brought forward in the Area Traffic Management Plan as it has not been completed nor has it had its 2nd public consultation and feedback from the community. There are many things that staff will not do. This doesn't necessarily mean it isn't a good idea. On the contrary, staff have little connection to the community with few exceptions.

I would have to question what grid pattern you are referring to. A grid pattern exists south of Byron but not off of Richmond Road, as the access is limited due to the Linear green space. This was also done in Woodpark North when intensification at Ambleside saw high cut through traffic. However, this is not as aggressive.

The CDP speaks to "creating" linkages and enhancing our greenspace. It is not necessarily prescriptive in its vision. I would argue that adding greenspace would be a benefit not a hindrance in the community. I would also speak to the fact that our focus is on the movement of people and not necessarily cars. The biggest complaint in our community with development is traffic. Managing this and providing more livable spaces includes looking at potential opportunities that will benefit the community.

[/end of letter]

re: Golden Avenue closure

2008-01-08T22:32:00.000-05:00

David Reevely of the Ottawa Citizen has posted about (what he called) the "fuss on Golden Avenue" over at his blog. You can read it here.

Notice of public hearing re: 401 Golden

2008-01-02T09:17:00.000-05:00

Is now available in PDF format.

Click here.

This Committee of Adjustment meeting is to be held on January 16. More details are in the PDF.

[Edited to add: this PDF illustrates what has been approved to date.]

New notice re: Golden Ave.

2007-12-31T09:17:00.000-05:00

A new sign has appeared at the corner of Golden and Byron.

It reads:

To consider an Application for Minor Variances to permit a driveway for access to the underground parking garage in a leisure zone, two reduced parking space lengths in the underground parking garage and an encroachment into the required sight triangle located at the southeast corner of Richmond Road and Golden Avenue.

Re: 401 Golden Ave & 416-426 Richmond Road will be heard on Wednesday, January 16 2008 starting at 1:00 p.m. Ben Franklin Place, The Chamber, 101 Centrepointe Drive, Ottawa

[end of text]

That's only two weeks away. Anyone who is interested in this issue should be at that meeting.

May the joy and happiness of the holiday season be with you always

2007-12-24T12:12:00.000-05:00

See you in 2008!

Sincerely,

andrea tomkins,
on behalf of the Westboro Community Association

Closing of Canadian Tire?

2007-12-23T19:25:00.000-05:00

While many of us assumed that the Canadian Tire on Richmond Road would be closing with the opening of the supersized one* on Carling and Cole, many are also wondering if might happen sooner than later.

Surveyors have been seen working around the Richmond Road location. Rumour has it the store is closing January 9, 2008. No one seems to be sure if the two are related. Anyone out there able to verify? And what about the closing of the Canadian Tire. Will it affect you, or not?

* This project consists of a two storey retail complex which will include a 9,300 square meter elevated Canadian Tire store built on a suspended concrete slab. A 1,600 square metre undesignated CRU space (5 units, one in a separate building), all at grade as well as a 1,250 square metre designated CRU space - Mark's Work Warehouse at grade (base building only). 351 parking stalls will be added both under the building at grade and exterior to footprint with full development of a 6.0
acre site. (source)

No parking meters for Westboro

2007-12-18T09:31:00.001-05:00

Westboro is going to be parking-meter free - at least for the time being - but anyone shopping a few blocks East in the West Wellington area will have to arm themselves with a roll of quarters.

Read the full story about the budget and the parking meter at the Ottawa Business Journal website.

Important update re: proposed closure of Golden

2007-12-15T21:14:00.001-05:00

It wouldn't be a proper discussion without a site plan, would it?

A detailed site plan has recently been obtained from the Planning Department.

Here it is in PDF format.

It is dated October 12.

This site plan was not available for view at the public consultation on December 5th. Note the site plan identifies an appropriation of city-owned land to the west of Golden.

Letter from the WCA to Councillor Christine Leadman re: Golden closure

2007-12-14T13:07:00.000-05:00

Christine Leadman
Councillor, Kitchissipi Ward
City of Ottawa
111 Laurier Avenue West
Ottawa ON K1P 1J1

By e-mail: Christine.Leadman@ottawa.ca

Re: Golden Avenue closure

Dear Ms Leadman:

Thank you for organizing the public information session on December 5, 2007 regarding the proposal to close a portion of Golden Avenue between Byron and Richmond Road. Several members of the Westboro Community Association Board of Directors were in attendance. Based on our observations, feedback we have been receiving directly from residents, and further discussion as a board, we wish to raise the following points:

1. The large turnout and number of speakers are a clear indication of the high degree of interest in and concern about this issue among residents of Westboro. Based on the opinions that were expressed as well as the show-of-hands exercise conducted towards the end of the meeting, it appears to us that a majority of those in attendance were opposed to the proposed closure based on the information that has been provided to date.

2. The Westboro Community Association (WCA) has a number of specific concerns regarding the proposal itself as well as the process employed to date, including:

a. the potential negative impact of diverted traffic onto adjacent residential streets and intersections (ex. Roosevelt, Broadview and their respective intersections at Byron);

b. disruption to Westboro’s existing traditional grid street pattern;

c. increased traffic volume and congestion on Richmond Road due to the relocation of the entrance to the Westboro Station development from Byron Avenue. This could also worsen existing problems at the Berkley/Richmond intersection that have already been raised by residents at the WCA community forum you attended a few weeks ago;

d. the preliminary findings of the Westboro/Highland Park/McKellar Park Traffic Management Plan do not support or recommend closure of Golden (or any other major traffic management measures) as volumes do not warrant it;

e. closure of Golden is not part of the Richmond Road Community Design Plan;

f. lack of detailed information: the two conceptual drawings presented at the meeting did not provide sufficient detail on the full scope of the proposal and city staff were not present to answer questions from residents.

3. We are concerned that this proposal appears to have been initiated by a relatively small number of residents of Golden Avenue and that the timeline for its consideration by the broader community is being driven primarily by the approaching start of construction on the Westboro Station development. It also concerns us that it is being treated in isolation rather than in conjunction with the broader traffic planning challenges that we are presently facing within Westboro. If this proposal is to be considered further, we request that it be examined within the context of the ongoing Traffic Management Plan process. That process already includes provisions for future public open houses to solicit community feedback.

Members of our Board are available to speak with you or representatives of the City about this matter further. We understand that you are planning another community meeting in the New Year regarding Golden Avenue. We look forward to hearing from you with respect to details of that session.

Sincerely,

Wallace Beaton, Chair, Westboro Community Association
Cherolyn Knapp, Vice-Chair, Westboro Community Association

cc. WCA Board Members
Nancy Schepers, Planning, Transit & Environment Department, City of Ottawa,
Douglas James, Planning Branch, City of Ottawa
Suzanne Woo, Traffic & Parking Operations Branch, City of Ottawa

--

[end of letter]

As always, we at the WCA welcome your feedback. Please use the "comments" function (below) and share your thoughts, questions, and comments.

Were you at the December 5 meeting? What are your thoughts about the proposed street closure? What, if any, are your concerns?

Brief de-brief re: the November community forum

2007-12-10T12:52:00.000-05:00

The Westboro Community Association's community forum on November 20 was well-attended. Thank you to all of you who came out that evening.

This was our first community event following our AGM in September and we were very pleased with the outcome. Our goal was to provide an opportunity for community members to give the Board of Directors guidance to help us prioritize our tasks for the coming year.

Kitchissippi Ward Councillor Christine Leadman was also in attendance.

Although there are many issues that affect Westboro today, the issue of traffic emerged as the top concern for Westboro residents. Smaller scale traffic-related issues which affect individual residents were all discussed, but it was made clear we need to look at the big picture as well. Business development, increased traffic volume, parking, public transit – these issues are all interrelated and affect each other.

Some of the issues raised included:

The Exchange: problems turning on to Richmond from Berkley
Westboro Station: impact on nearby residential streets, proposed closure of Golden.
Athlone at Scott: speeding and pedestrian safely
Eden at Richmond: lack of proper signage
Edison/Avondate: impact of residential intensification

The WCA has formed a transportation committee with a sub-committee to cover traffic issues. Our aim is to (a) educate ourselves on these issues to the best of our abilities and (b) best represent Westboro's interests to Councillor Leadman and to the City of Ottawa.

If you are interested in traffic/transportation issues and have some knowledge in this area, please consider a volunteer position with the WCA. We can be reached at: hellowestboro@yahoo.ca.

Committee of Adjustment decision re: 300 Richmond Road

2007-12-05T12:54:00.002-05:00

Is now available in PDF format.

FYI, the application was denied.

Reminder re: public consultation concerning the closure of Golden Ave.

2007-12-05T12:45:00.000-05:00

The consultation is tonight!

There's been a lot of buzz about this issue, so it should be an interesting evening. :)

Churchill Senior Centre (345 Richmond Road)
December 5, 2007
6:30 - 8:30 PM

Public Consultation re: closure of Golden Avenue

2007-11-29T16:43:00.000-05:00

Councillor Leadman is hosting a public consultation meeting with regards to
the closure of Golden Avenue between Richmond Road and Byron.

The meeting will be held on December 5th from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the
Churchill Senior Centre located at 345 Richmond Road.

(Please note, the following information is from the office of Councillor Leadman.)

Background Information:

The idea behind the road closure is to create a unique concept for the Richmond Road corridor to benefit the community and its residents. The portion of Golden Avenue in question was never intended as a roadway, it was originally a bus turnaround point until the 1990s. Closing this small portion of road will result in the extension of the Byron Linear Park for public use. It will connect Golden Avenue to the Mainstreet by extending the sidewalk and will create a gateway into the Richmond Road corridor.

As well this concept speaks to many important components of the Official Plan, such as the need to keep the movement of traffic on the arterial roadway or major collectors and the need to promote pedestrian and cycling activities. It will make our community much more attractive, unique and green.

The above sets the tone for the growth of communities within the urban core and particularly along the mainstreets that has experienced the highest level of intensification. This measure is put in place to promote growth but at the same time provide compatibility with the neighbouring community. It's intended to promote people, not cars.

Last call for Kitchissippi Ward Budget Meeting

2007-11-29T16:33:00.000-05:00

Westboro residents are encouraged to come participate in a budget consultation hosted by Councillor Leadman.

It's tonight:

Thursday, November 29
7 to 9 p.m.
Churchill Seniors Centre
345 Richmond Road

Residents and businesses will also have an opportunity to make a presentation to all of Council from December 3 to 7, 2007.

Reminder: the WCA open forum is tomorrow night

2007-11-19T19:15:00.001-05:00

This is a reminder about the Westboro Community Association Open Forum - Tuesday November 20 at 7:00 pm at All Saints/First United Church on Richmond Road at Churchill (enter from the back off Madison).

If you are a Westboro resident, this is your opportunity to give your Board of Directors some direction. We have already been busy with a number of community consultations as well as addressing business and residential development issues with the City, but we need to hear more from you so that we can set priorities for the coming year.

You are invited to meet the new Board of Directors and share concerns and ideas about issues affecting Westboro: including transportation, business and residential development, and greenspace. Kitchissippi Ward Councillor Christine Leadman will also be in attendance, ready to answer questions and hear feedback from community members.

Even if you weren't able to make it to our AGM, you are welcome to attend our community forum and become a member of the association.

Hope to see you there!

Shopwatch: so it's going to be an American Apparel

2007-11-17T09:40:00.000-05:00

There's been quite a bit of speculation about what kind of store is going in the ground floor of the office building at 411 Roosevelt at Richmond Road. Ten years ago this space used to be a branch of the Royal Bank of Canada, after that it was a beauty supply store. Next up: American Apparel. You can read more about American Apparel here.

What do you think about this kind of chain moving into the Village?

Notice of public hearing re: 300 Richmond Road

2007-11-16T10:53:00.000-05:00

(Click photo to enlarge.)

Proposal for street closure - Golden Ave.

2007-11-16T10:50:00.001-05:00

(Click photo to enlarge.)

Westboro Village BIA aims to expand

2007-11-05T19:00:00.000-05:00

Read the article over at the Ottawa Business Journal website.

Beyond Ottawa 20/20 ?

2007-10-25T12:47:00.000-04:00

Ottawa residents are invited to participate in the City’s review of the Official Plan – an important part of the Beyond Ottawa 20/20 initiative. The Official Plan is reviewed every five years as directed by Ontario’s Planning Act.

Two supporting documents, the Transportation Master Plan and the Infrastructure Master Plan are included in the review.

City Council wants residents to have their say in how the city should manage its growth and take part in influencing the policies and strategic directions that guide the Official Plan and all the Master Plans.

To start the consultation process, staff have prepared a number of White Papers, which explain a variety of issues and options on topics such as intensification, transportation challenges, the environment and climate change.

Residents have also prepared Discussion Papers with recommendations for changes to the Official Plan and Master Plans as a result of the Rural Settlement Strategy Workshop held earlier this year.

For more info, as well as a schedule of upcoming events, go to the City of Ottawa website.

Also worth checking out: Ottawa Talks. Post your thoughts in this online forum. [Edited to add: wow - the forum is surprisingly complicated to use. Anyone try it out yet?]

Make sure you're heard: come out to our community forum

2007-10-25T12:35:00.000-04:00

The Westboro Community association is hosting a special community forum on November 20th at All Saints Westboro/First United (7 p.m. at 347 Richmond Road). Westboro residents are invited to meet the new board, and share concerns and ideas.

This kind of event organization is very much a volunteer effort. Please help us spread the word. Thank you!

Cash-in-lieu at Westboro Station

2007-10-11T11:05:00.000-04:00

Word is that the parking requirements for 430 Richmond Road (Westboro Station) have been met by the Applicant and the application for Cash in Lieu has been withdrawn.

Do you live on Tweedsmuir Ave.?

2007-10-09T11:36:00.000-04:00

If you live on Tweedsmuir Avenue between Richmond Road and Currell Avenue and see someone taking pictures of your home it's because the City has planned some infrastructure work for Tweedsmuir in 2008 (subject of course to budget restrictions)! You may see a new watermain and elimination of ditches.

Notice of Open House and PEC meeting

2007-10-02T13:22:00.000-04:00

re: Draft Comprehensive Zoning By-law

Click here to the text of this notice in PDF format.

Committee of Adjustment Notice of Public Hearing re: 269 Avondale

2007-10-02T13:19:00.000-04:00

Will be held October 3 at 1 p.m.

Click here to view a copy of the notice in PDF format.

All Candidates Debate

2007-09-21T12:34:00.001-04:00

Come ask your questions to the Provincial Candidates of Ottawa-Centre on Sunday, September 23, 7:00 - 9:30 pm at the Churchill Seniors Recreation Centre, 345 Richmond Road (west of Churchill). Seating is limited, please arrive early.

Moderated by Rita Celli, host of CBC Radio's Ontario Today and co-organized by the West Wellington Community Association and the Hampton-Iona Community Group. For more information, contact Judith Shane (613) 725-9147.

Ontario Electoral Reform

2007-09-21T08:16:00.001-04:00

When Ontarians go to the polls on October 10th, we will have an historic opportunity via referendum to change how we elect our MPPs at Queen’s Park. Come find out why an assembly of ordinary citizens from across the province are recommending a new “Mixed Member Proportional” (MMP) voting system for Ontario and how it would improve our democracy.

When: Tuesday, September 25th

Time: 7:00 pm

Where: All Saints Anglican/First United Church, 347 Richmond Road (just west of Churchill) in Westboro

For more information, send an email to Wallace Beaton at wbeaton2@sympatico.ca or go to www.yourbigdecision.ca

quick update re: the AGM

2007-09-20T08:14:00.000-04:00

It was standing room only at last night's AGM. It was heartening to see how much interest there is out there in our community.

A new board was elected, our updated constitution was ratified, and we heard a great presentation from David Jeanes.

Meeting minutes will be posted soon.

A big thank-you to everyone who came out and to the committee members who helped organize this event.

Final reminder!

2007-09-19T15:10:00.000-04:00

The Westboro Community Association AGM is tonight (Wednesday) at the Churchill Seniors Centre. The fun starts at 7:00 p.m. See you there!

Don't miss the Westboro Community Association's Annual General Meeting

2007-09-17T09:05:00.000-04:00

Please forward this message to your friends and neighbors.

Our AGM will be on Wednesday September 19 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the Churchill Seniors Centre at 345 Richmond Road. (Map here.)

On the agenda:

the election of a new board (if you'd like to put your name forward, please let us know ASAP)

review of our constitution

David Jeanes, VP of Heritage Ottawa and President of Transport 2000 Canada will also be speaking.

We'd like to encourage everyone to walk to the AGM. On-site parking is limited. Please note, if you are parking on-site, you must check in at the front desk. There is some street parking available.

Hope to see you there!

City Growth Projections presentation; Property Tax Report for review

2007-09-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

1. A last-minute announcement has been received of an event entitiled "The Future of Ottawa's Growth - 2006-2031 Population Projections / La croissance future d'Ottawa - Projections démographiques 2006-2031". This event, to be held Monday September 17 from 6pm to 9pm at Festival Room at City Hall, appears to be the public release of city population projections in the context of revision of the Official Plan. The spoken presentation (presumably written material is available throughout) is to occur at 7pm. To attend the event you are to register by e-mail to adrc@ottawa.ca by Friday Sept. 14 (i.e. instantly!!) No information about this event has been found on the city website.

2. The Property Tax Working Group has completed its report which can be found at http://www.fca-fac.ca/Misc/WGprtax.pdf .

The working group believe they have come up with a new system that is easier to understand, provides consistency and predictability to taxpayers, is transparent and, as a bonus, eliminates the need for MPAC and its associated expense. It differs from the current political party platforms, which are outlined in the document. Please review the proposal with your organization -- the working group would like to discuss and, if possible, approve it at the next FCA meeting on Sept 27. If you have questions, please forward them to Don Stewart, Chair of the Property Tax Working Group at freerec@rogers.com.

Constitutional review

2007-09-11T13:32:00.000-04:00

As part of the effort to revive the Westboro Community Association, the Steering Committee decided that it would be a good idea to review the Association’s Constitution/By-Laws to see if any changes should be made. The last time the Constitution was amended appears to be 1995, so a smaller working group was formed to review the existing document and recommend changes.

WCA was incorporated in 1977 and its By-Laws (also called a Constitution) set the “rules” for how the organization will operate, including rules about membership, election of directors, and financial matters.

Over the past few months, the working group discussed and drafted, and then presented a document to the Steering Committee, which is in support of the proposed changes. The new document is longer than the 1995 version, and we hope that it will help us to modernize and reinvigourate the Association in a positive manner. The proposed document will be presented at the AGM on September 19, 2007 and members will be asked to vote to accept the changes. Please take a moment to review the existing Constitution and the proposed replacement. (Revised copy is here in PDF format - original document is here.)

Please contact hellowestboro@yahoo.ca, or leave your comments below if you have any questions, concerns or comments on the proposed document. We look forward to seeing you at the AGM.

WCA handout

2007-09-07T09:55:00.000-04:00

Thank you to the members of the WCA who have offered to distribute our leaflet in advance of the upcoming AGM.

Click here to download it in PDF format. (There are two per page.)

Anyone else willing to help spread the word, please contact us at hellowestboro@yahoo.ca.

Last call for tonight's meeting

2007-08-21T10:41:00.000-04:00

The WCA will meeting tonight, Tuesday August 21 at the Westboro Market, 393 Richmond Rd., from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Please let us know if you'll be attending! We need to do a final tally. Our email address is hellowestboro@yahoo.ca.

Cash-in-lieu at the Bourke development?

2007-08-07T13:25:00.000-04:00

Click here for a PDF of the Cash-in-Lieu Parking Proposal being considered by the City of Ottawa Planning, Transit and Environment Department for the Bourke Development... future home of Westboro Station on Richmond between Roosevelt and Golden Ave.

What do you think?

Email your comments to Douglas James of the Planning, Transit and Environment Department (douglas.james@ottawa.ca) by August 15.

More information about cash-in-lieu of parking is available at the City of Ottawa website.

Next meeting

2007-08-02T09:33:00.001-04:00

The next meeting of the WCA will be on Tuesday August 21 at the Westboro Market, 393 Richmond Rd., from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Please let us know if you'll be attending. Our email address is hellowestboro@yahoo.ca.

This is exactly what we need in Westboro: good food

2007-07-07T20:02:00.000-04:00

This just in: MHK Sushi is opening a restaurant in the Westboro Exchange.

What would you like from your Community Association? Your input is wanted.

2007-07-06T21:01:00.000-04:00

A subgroup of the Westboro Community Association Steering Committee is working together to reinvigorate the Westboro Community Association’s mission and update its constitution. Proposed changes will be published in advance of the WCA AGM on September 19, 2007.

We need to hear from the people of Westboro. What should be the WCA’s priorities? How should it go about meeting its objectives? What kind of organization do you think it should be? Do you want to see more parks, better roads, less infill development, more infill development, historical designations, social events, political connections, business links... We want to hear from you now.

Please send your comments to hellowestboro@yahoo.ca before August 18, 2007.

Development at 491 Richmond Road.

2007-07-04T16:24:00.000-04:00

The pit that was dug just west of the Westboro Exchange is finally sporting some signage. It's going to be a luxury retirement residence.

Here's a view of it from Maplelawn garden:

Westboro Community Design Plan update

2007-06-28T08:03:00.000-04:00

Think first, Westboro developers told
The city has sent a clear message to Westboro developers: Think about what the community wants before you build.... [read the rest of the news story on the Ottawa Sun website.]

Happy news for parents in Westboro

2007-06-26T13:09:00.000-04:00

The wading pool at Dovercourt Recreation Centre will open June 28th ... from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Check out the Dovercourt website for details and info about pool-related special events.

Meeting of the WCA

2007-06-26T09:32:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone who came out to last night's meeting of the WCA. It was good to see a few new faces too!

Action items will be emailed ASAP to all members of the steering committee.

Meeting tonight!

2007-06-25T07:55:00.000-04:00

... is scheduled for 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. on Monday June 25 (tonight!) at the home of one of our steering committee members. If you're interested in attending, please contact me at hellowestboro@yahoo.ca for the address.

Thank you!

Will the Westboro bakery stay in Westboro?

2007-06-22T12:51:00.000-04:00

We Westborians are all a-tizzy about the fate of our dear little bakery. And with just cause. We need fresh bread and sandwiches!

It's early yet, but there's a potential deal in the works between Westboro Bakery and the owners of the Baker Street Cafe on Richmond Road. Nothing is final, but this might mean the bakery will end up with a space inside Baker Street. (Which, by the way, serves a fantastic breakfast between 7:oo - 3 p.m. Run, don't walk, and order their two egg breakfast. Or a cinnamon roll. They are made fresh daily.)

Despite some of the obvious overlap (the bakery and the restaurant both serve coffee and sandwiches) I hope something can be worked out.

The bakery's new location on Hinton is a go. Anyone have more details about it?

Richmond Road/Westboro Community Design Plan

2007-06-21T20:21:00.000-04:00

The Richmond Road/Westboro Community Design Plan will be discussed at a meeting of the Planning and Environment committee at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday June 26. According to the agenda, the CDP is item #11.

If you're concerned about where Westboro is heading (and what it's going to look like within the next 25 years) you might find this of interest.

Read the report to PEC as submitted by Nancy Schepers, Deputy City Manager. Don't forget to scroll down to the bottom of the page. The summary of the comment sheets from the March open house might be of interest to some because they reflect many of our concerns... especially as it relates to green space and cut-through traffic.
Read related article in the Ottawa Citizen

What do you think about the CDP for Westboro?

La Maison Jeanne D'Arc - demolition in progress

2007-06-15T11:02:00.000-04:00

The demise of Westboro village?

2007-06-15T10:40:00.001-04:00

Check out this article online at the Ottawa Citizen for a bit of history and an interesting take on the latest changes affecting Westboro.

Canoes and Kayaks at Westboro Beach

2007-06-14T13:52:00.000-04:00

Interested in trying canoeing or kayaking, but don't where to begin? You can try out a canoe or a kayak for free, most weeknights on the Ottawa River.
(More info available on the Ottawa Citizen website)

Meet and greet with Councillor Christine Leadman

2007-06-11T08:35:00.000-04:00

This just in from the West Wellington Community Association:

Meet your City Councillor for an informal discussion of issues affecting your community. Everyone welcome!

Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Fisher Park Community Centre in Fisher Park School
250 Holland Avenue
8:00 pm

See you at Westfest?

2007-06-08T11:45:00.001-04:00

The Westboro Community Association will have a table at this year's Westfest. Hope to see you there!

Westboro village updates

2007-06-07T11:23:00.000-04:00

1) Westboro Bakery has found a temporary location on Hinton but they're looking for something closer to Westboro.

2) Westboro Market on Richmond Rd. is ~~opening very soon~~ now open! The paper is finally off the window and they have all their produce laid out and ready to sell. Finally, groceries in Westboro!

Demolition has begun....

2007-06-05T12:30:00.000-04:00

... on the Maison Jeanne D'Arc on Kenwood Ave. They're starting from the back of the building. There will eventually be 19 homes on this property, designed by Barry Hobin and Associates.

(If you recall, only the main part of the building was given Heritage designation.)

Chinese Bible Church on Richmond is up for sale

2007-06-04T08:12:00.000-04:00

WCA member Wallace Beaton spotted a for sale sign on the Chinese Bible Church at 381 Richmond Road.

FYI - it's going for a cool two million. Here's a real-estate listing, complete with photo.

Believe it or not, it used to be a theatre.

Here's a bit of the backstory from an email from Heritage Ottawa VP, David Jeanes.

"The Westboro Theatre, (3 photos in the book), at 381 Richmond Road, opened in 1941 and closed in 1955. It was a basic little auditorium building with a 494-seat faintly art deco interior. There was a taxi dispatch office at the front for Westboro taxi, a poster display case, a box office window, and the front door facing the street with a black and white tile façade and a flat neon sign instead of a marquee.

The theatre had no stage and was just for second-run movies. It was built as a labour of love by Ben Stapleton, who also built the once-majestic Centre Theatre on Sparks Street."

(This info is from a book by Alain Miguelez, “A Theatre Near You: 150 Years of Going to the Show in Ottawa Gatineau”, Penumbra Press, 2004, pages 246-249.)

Update on the Westboro bakery

2007-06-01T20:35:00.001-04:00

As many of you have probably heard, Westboro Bakery has been struggling with massive rent increases. Five years ago their rent started at $700 a month, then it doubled to $1,500, and now it's going to $3,500 a month. Local resident Diane Van Oostdam has been circulating a petition to show Domicile, the owner of the building, that residents want to keep their bakery.

Diane had a final meeting with John Doran from Domicile recently, and the verdict is in. Westboro bakery will be closing at the end of June.

Westboro Station - retail rumours ?

2007-06-01T13:02:00.000-04:00

Word on the street is that three business are moving into the ground floor of Westboro Station:
Holtz Spa, Harry Rosen, and (another?) Bridgehead coffee shop.

What are your thoughts? What kind of retail would you like to see in Westboro?

In Westboro this weekend

2007-06-01T12:54:00.000-04:00

There's a lot happening around the 'hood this weekend! Although it isn't exclusive to Westboro, Doors Open Ottawa is a perennial fave. For more info, check out the City of Ottawa website.

Music in the Park

2007-05-30T16:39:00.001-04:00

The 13th annual Music in the Park at Dovercourt will be taking place on Saturday June 2 from 11-2:00 p.m. More information is available here. The WCA will be at this event, so please drop by and say hello!

Unofficial minutes of the May 30 meeting

2007-05-30T14:06:00.000-04:00

Here's a brief idea of what went down:

The next couple of months is about increasing membership.
- WCA will be at the upcoming Music in the Park event at Dovercourt. Look for us between 11-2 p.m. on Saturday June 2.
- WCA will also have a table & signup sheet at Westfest. Wallace and Andrea are going to develop a 1/2 page handout.

Committees!
The goal is to host an AGM in late September (date TBA). In the meantime, we've divided ourselves into three groups:

communications, outreach, membership
Big picture/mission/constitution
AGM planning

We will reconvene at our next meeting, Monday June 25. Location TBD.

April 26th: the next meeting of the Westboro Community Association

2007-04-24T09:55:00.000-04:00

Westboro residents know that this neighborhood is a fantastic place to live. There are lots of changes going on, that's why it’s so important to stay updated and get involved. When those big issues come up it’s best to stand as a group. That’s why you should consider joining your neighbours for a meeting of the Westboro Community Association.

The next one is scheduled this Thursday, April 26th in the Dovercourt boardroom at 7:00 p.m.