NCC looking to refresh boating docks at Dow’s Lake

The National Capital Commission is looking for an operator to build new boating docks at Dow’s Lake. CTV’s Camille Wilson has the details.

The National Capital Commission is looking to create a “refreshed, vibrant” hub for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts at Dow’s Lake this summer.

As Ottawa experiences snowy weather and below seasonal temperatures, the NCC has issued a request for proposals for an operator to “design, build and run a new series” of commercial docks and marine slips at the Dow’s Lake Pavilion and Marina.

“Help us create a refreshed, vibrant hub for both motorized and non‑motorized boating on Dow’s Lake, one of Ottawa’s most beloved waterfront destinations,” the NCC said.

According to the NCC, it is looking for proposals for marina management and operation for motorized boats, and recreation and non-motorized boat rental services such as kayaks, pedal boats, paddleboards, canoes and bicycle rentals.

The Crown corporation wants an experienced marina operator or a proponent with “similar, proven experience.”

According to the request for proposals, the NCC is seeking a marina operator that is certified to operate a fuel pump in the marina.

“The docks are the end of the life cycle, the lease is at the end of expiring,” said Bill Leonard, vice president of Real Estate and Development with the NCC. “We had the success with our with our swimming dock project last year, which, by the way, is coming back this year, as well as our summer zone beer garden, which is also coming back this year.”

Based on historical data, revenue from the Dow’s Lake pavilion docks is 70 per cent from non-motorized boat rentals, 20 per cent from boat docking fees and seven per cent to 10 per cent from fuel-based sales.

Last summer, the NCC introduced a swimming location and recreation dock at Dow’s Lake.

Ottawa Tourism says the lake is central to the city’s tourism offerings.

“It’s very encouraging to see the NCC invest so much effort and money into making it that much more of a destination for everyone,” said Jérôme Miousse, Director of Public Affairs at Ottawa Tourism. “We like to bring visitors, but also residents all across the city. The good thing with Dow’s Lake is it’s a four-season destination.”

The NCC says the request for proposals does not include the operation of any restaurants, noting they are already leased to tenants at Dow’s Lake.

The deadline for proponents to submit a proposal is Feb. 16.

“We’re looking for someone to get started for May 15,” said Leonard. “Looking for them to hit the ground running.”

With files from CTV News Ottawa’s Camille Wilson