Which road is the worst in Ottawa? CAA launches annual worst roads campaign

Carling Avenue seeing a high volume of motorists during construction on Highway 417 in Ottawa. Oct. 4, 2025 (Josh Marano/CTV News Ottawa)

Ottawa drivers have a chance to vent about the worst roads on the commute around the capital.

CAA launched its Worst Roads campaign on Tuesday, the annual campaign to raise awareness about the state of the roads and make streets safer.

“Poor roads affect us all. They make us late, cause delivery delays, contribute to congestion, and, most importantly, endanger those who use them,” the CAA said on its website.

A survey finds nearly 70 per cent of CAA members don’t believe enough is being done to maintain Ontario’s roads. According to the CAA, respondents raised concerns about cracks in the pavement, potholes, uneven and bumpy road surfaces, and congestion.

Last year, Carling Avenue was voted the worst road in Ottawa. It was the 10^th straight year Carling Avenue was ranked as the worst road in the capital.

Richmond Road was voted the second worst road in Ottawa, followed by Bronson Avenue, Merivale Road and Hunt Club Road.

The worst roads campaign begins after a harsh winter in Ottawa, with snow, freezing rain and cold temperatures. More than 13,000 potholes have been filled on Ottawa roads so far this winter.

No Ottawa road ranked in the top 10 worst roads across Ontario in the annual CAA survey last year. Aberdeen Avenue in Hamilton was ranked as the worst road in the province, followed by Barton Street East in Hamilton and County Road 49 in Prince Edward County.

You can nominate a road for the CAA’s Worst Roads online. Voting is open until April 17.

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