It’s a view and destination worth sharing. A new lookout in Ottawa is attracting residents, visitors, and those working near-by. Kìwekì Point, formerly Nepean Point, is now open following a $45-million rehabilitation project. “This is probably one of the best things I’ve seen the NCC do in recent memory,” says Ottawa resident Doug Peacock. He biked from Alta Vista with Patty Peacock. “I was here a couple of days ago, and I told Patty about it. So, we came back to see it together,” he said. The redevelopment next to the National Gallery of Canada includes a new pedestrian bridge and lookouts over the National Capital Region. According to the National Capital Commission, the newly redeveloped area “restores access to one of the most spectacular lookouts in the National Capital Region, with panoramic views of Parliament Hill and Ottawa-Gatineau.” “The view from here is too good,” says Tarnvar Kaur, who is visiting from the Greater Toronto Area. Another visitor, Michael, works near-by and enjoys taking a break at the point, “honestly the view is amazing. And I’m gonna come here almost every day.” The NCC says it redeveloped the site to “create a lively, 21st century park” in Ottawa. “The Big River Landscape” concept plan guided the redevelopment of Kìwekì Point,” the NCC says on its website. “It was the winning entry, by Janet Rosenberg and Studio, from an international design competition.” According to the NCC, “A universally accessible path surrounds the park and features monuments, artwork and interpretive installations. Whispering Point is a breathtaking point of interest, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the valley, river and city.” “This is just gorgeous. It really is amazing to see all the artwork and the views,” says Betty Gunderson, who is visiting from South Dakota to see her cousin. “I’m excited about it,” says Cecily Whitla, Assistant Manger with Tavern on the Hill. “It’s bringing in some new customers, people that wouldn’t normally see us here on other days. So that’s good to have some more traffic.” In Pictures Visiting Kìwekì Point The area is open from April 1 to Oct. 15 from sunrise to 11 p.m., and between Oct. 16 and March 31 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. It is located behind the National Gallery of Canada and can be accessed from St. Patrick Street, Sussex Drive or from Major’s Hill Park (via the Pìdàban footbridge)
