Section of ByWard Market to be open on Canada Day during construction

The ByWard Market District Authority released an artist rendering showing the ByWard Square. (ByWard Market District Authority/release)

The ByWard Market District Authority says a section of the market that will be closed for construction between late June and early July will be partially open on Canada Day.

The installation of Carré ByWard Square is scheduled for June 23 to July 9, closing parts of George Street and ByWard Market Square between George and York Streets. The authority says temporary fencing will be installed around ByWard Market Square, the George Street Plaza and the plaza in front of EQ3 during that time, and the entire length of ByWard Market Square between George and York streets will remain closed to vehicles.

In a document provided to CTV News Ottawa, the ByWard Market District Authority said there will be a reduced construction footprint on Canada Day to give visitors more access to both George Street and ByWard Market Square.

“The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) understands that installation and temporary road closures can create concerns for businesses, residents, and visitors. Our priority throughout this project has been to minimize disruption while delivering long-term benefits for the district,” the authority said.

On Canada Day, installation work will pause and all materials and equipment will be stored within two fenced areas in parking spots on ByWard Market Square. The road and plazas will be open to pedestrians during the day.

Streets are closed to vehicles in the ByWard Market on Canada Day.

The ByWard Market District Authority says the Carré ByWard Square project will create a new community gathering space in the area, enhancing seating and gathering areas, creating family-friendly and interactive installations, including community programming, and pop-ups featuring ByWard Market businesses. There will also be a licenced area showcasing beer from ByWard Market businesses such as Lowertown Brewery and Beyond the Pale.

“The project supports the broader goal of creating a more vibrant, welcoming, and pedestrian-friendly district that attracts residents, visitors, and customers to local businesses,” the ByWard Market District Authority says.

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