Last week, I was pleased to join City of Ottawa Public Realm and Rural Affairs staff for a small engagement session on the future of Metcalfe’s village core.

This project comes from what I heard clearly during the by-election: residents see tremendous potential in Metcalfe’s main street, but many also feel that parts of the core are tired, underinvested in, and no longer fully reflect the pride, history, and character of the community.

The evening was an opportunity to begin an honest conversation about what makes Metcalfe special, what should be preserved, and what kinds of improvements could make the village core more welcoming, attractive, accessible, and reflective of its rural and historical roots.

Thank you to the local stakeholders who joined the discussion and shared thoughtful ideas about village character, public spaces, pedestrian experience, beautification, safety, and community gathering places. This is an important first step in helping shape a clearer vision for the heart of Metcalfe and getting us ready to apply to future funding opportunities.