By Iryna Zahoruiko Some people have concerns that when neighbourhoods transition to become more walkable, the key elements of walkable neighbourhoods—such as residential density or mixed housing types—might harm property values or make the area less desirable. In reality, the opposite is true: density and walkability consistently increase neighbourhood desirability for a wide range of reasons. Having lived in Hintonburg for two years, I can say with certainty: when your daily needs are...

By Jacob Fewer If you’re an avid follower of Walkable Ottawa, it should come as no surprise that improving a neighbourhood’s walkability yields a plethora of benefits: healthier communities, lower emissions and stronger local economies to name a few (Thielman, 2016; Marshall, 2009; Litman, 2003). In keeping with this pattern, I’m excited to share my recent Master’s report research, currently under review for publication with the Canadian Planning and Policy Journal, which adds a compelling...

By Rhys Phillips The City of Ottawa has made aspirational commitments to the walkable 15-minute community in its 2021 Official Plan , and...