Focused police enforcement in ByWard Market could be having positive impact

Pat Nicastro, owner of La Bottega. (Peter Szperling/CTV News Ottawa)

An increased police presence in Ottawa’s ByWard Market could be having an impact, say local businesses and visitors.

“Things are looking better,” says La Bottega owner, Pat Nicastro. “We are seeing more police officers down in the market for sure. They’ve been coming in, introducing themselves. You always see a couple, groups. They’re walking around or they’re on foot. They’re parking their vehicles. We’re seeing the vehicles parked a little more.”

He thinks having extra police presence is having a positive effect.

“More presence, and we’re happy. And I think it’s working,” he said.

Police have been targeting eight “hot spots” of “high crime concentration” as part of the service’s new Community Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE) strategy that was introduced last summer. The plan is meant to increase visibility of officers and community organizations to deter crime and improve perceptions of public safety.

“When we see them, it’s good for everybody. It’s good for tourists, it’s good for locals, and it’s good for the business owners,” adds Nicastro

“I feel fine walking around here,” says New Brunswick visitor Andrew Titus.

Resident Edgar Caro says he’s noticed the increased police presence too but feels safe.

“I think it’s pretty safe, always been… they’re doing a good job so far.”

But not everyone feels safe.

“I don’t feel safe, no,” says Jay. He tells CTV News Ottawa that he had a walking aid stolen from him twice and would like to see more police on foot in the area.

Roberto Pacheco at Lapointe’s Fish Market says extra police presence has had a positive impact.

“It’s nice because people were scared to come down downtown because there was a volume of violence. And since the police is back in town, it makes a huge difference. And we could see it. There is less people getting hurt or if something happened… we’re covered.”

In a statement to CTV News Ottawa Thursday, The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) said it is committed to “supporting open dialogue” between the city’s police service and local businesses.

“The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) appreciates the efforts of the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) in implementing their CORE strategy to enhance safety and security in the ByWard Market district and Rideau Street area. A collaborative approach is essential in addressing community concerns, and the BMDA is committed to supporting open dialogue between local businesses and OPS representatives,” said Victoria Williston, communications manager at BMDA.

“Through our Business Advisory Committee (BAC), supported by the BMDA, we assist in removing communication barriers for ByWard Market businesses by organizing quarterly collaborative events where they can voice their concerns and provide direct feedback to police. These conversations foster stronger relationships and ensure that businesses have a platform to contribute to community safety solutions.

“The BMDA can serve as an educational tool to connect our neighbours and businesses with the right organizations, resources, and support systems to help them thrive. We believe that through ongoing collaboration and communication, we can create a more vibrant ByWard Market for everyone.”