Boundaries
Old Ottawa East is sandwiched between the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River, which form its western and eastern boundaries respectively. The Queensway forms the northern border while to the south there is some discrepancy about where Old Ottawa East stops and Old Ottawa South begins. For simplicity, we’ve drawn the line along Avenue Road.
History
The area was first settled in the early 1800s and became known as Archville before being incorporated as the Village of Ottawa East in the late 1800s. It was initially seen as a suburb, with the boundary of Ottawa ending at Gladstone and Mann avenues, and remained rural in nature for some time. It was amalgamated with the City of Ottawa in 1907.
The area was developed gradually over the 20th century but remained largely unchanged until recently, when a focus was put on the community by three things:
- Transforming Main Street, which bisects the community, into a complete street, meaning it gives as much preference to cyclists and pedestrians as it does to cars;
- Building the Flora Footbridge over the Rideau Canal to connect Old Ottawa East to Lansdowne Park and the Glebe;
- Large-scale housing development along Main Street that will see close to 1,000 new homes and apartments by the time it’s finished, with accompanying commercial and retail growth.
Claim to fame
In 1863, one of the large “lots” of land — some 26 acres — was sold to the Roman Catholic College of St. Joseph. It would become St. Paul University and the expansive grounds of the Oblate order’s Edifice Deschâtelets, an impressive stone building along the Rideau River surrounded by trees and nature. It’s this property that has been the focus of much of the recent development.
Old Ottawa East neighbourhoods
- Rideau Gardens (shared with Old Ottawa South)
- Archville
- Greystone Village
Who’s building
- Greystone Village: eQ Homes
In the area
If there is a criticism of Old Ottawa East — a community that’s close to downtown and offers an interesting mix of homes, many lovely, tree-lined streets and lots of green space — it is often that there are not enough services and retail to support the community, including having its own grocery store (there is a Loblaws within driving distance on Isabella Street on the west side of the Rideau Canal). Services and retail are increasing as the neighbourhood continues to evolve.
Schools
There are both elementary and high schools in the community, although not all boards are represented:
- Immaculata High School (OCSB)
- Lady Evelyn Alternative elementary (OCDSB)
There are also independent programs, the University of Ottawa Lees campus, Saint Paul University, as well as other schools in neighbouring communities.
Find schools nearby:
- English public: Ottawa Carleton District School Board school locator
- English Catholic: Ottawa Catholic School Board school locator
- French public: Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario school locator
- French Catholic: Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est school locator
Businesses
This is an area that is improving, with development expected to attract more, but some businesses that are already finding a home in Old Ottawa East include:
- The Green Door
- 3 Trees
- Sula Wok
- Watson’s Pharmacy
- NU Grocery
- Singing Pebble Bookstore
Amenities
For a smaller neighbourhood, Old Ottawa East packs a punch. Not only does it boast accessible Rideau Canal and Rideau River waterfront, there are several parks — Brantwood is a particular favourite — and other green spaces. Walking and biking opportunties abound.
There’s also the delightful community Children’s Garden, churches, two university campuses and quiet residential streets. And the former town hall lives on as a community centre.
Services
Transit options
Old Ottawa East is served by the Lees Light Rail Transit station, with Hurdman also not far away. It is also served by regular OC bus service.
Although now narrowed to two lanes, Main Street continues to be a major route, as does Colonel By Drive, while proximity to the Queensway means getting to and from the area is quick.
And the train station is just on the other side of the Rideau River.