Happy Canada Day!

I’m in Ottawa, and couldn’t think of a more apt place to be on July 1. My wife and I are here crashing at my daughter Jackie’s place. Most of the year she’s a student at Carleton University, and this Summer she’s experiencing how sweltering the city can be. Thus far, we’ve found respite from the heat doing touristy things like visiting Gatineau Park, the Science & Tech museum (half price admission for students), and this morning we’re taking in the Cold War chill of the Diefenbunker before heading back to do patio cocktails around the downtown.

There’s a heck of a lot of development happening in Ottawa which is transforming the historic precinct around the marvelous Parliament buildings. The Centre Block is undergoing a decade plus renovation, hence the sight of cranes, and a giant crater under the peace tower.

The area underneath the hill and bordering the shores of the Ottawa River now has a beautifully built walking/bike path that snakes along and leads to various developments of people places still under construction around and between the Supreme Court and National Archives.

On the opposite side of the hill, the redevelopment of Nepean Point is visible. Once home to a prominent monument dedicated to the explorer Samuel D. Champlain, it has now been transformed into "Kìwekì," meaning "lookout" in Algonquin, to honour Indigenous heritage. The National Capital Commission (NCC) has revamped the site, which was not very inviting for visitors, to enhance the experience while maintaining its historical significance. The statue has been somewhat demoted from its summit position, and the new Kìwekì now provides a welcoming space for residents and tourists alike, celebrating Indigenous contributions and fostering community connections. They’ve done a really great redevelopment here and well worth a visit on a sunny blue sky day.

Some pics below to illustrate my trip.

Where ever you find yourself, Happy Canada Day.