National Capital Commission Pioneers Urban Swimming in Ottawa

The National Capital Commission (NCC) is transforming Ottawa’s relationship with its waterways through innovative urban swimming initiatives. After the launch of a new swimming dock at Dow’s Lake in June 2023, the NCC aims to reshape perceptions about water safety and accessibility in the city. The dock, which allows unsupervised swimming, represents a bold departure from traditional views that have long characterized the National Capital Region.

The Dow’s Lake dock opening was a significant milestone for the NCC, which has been steadily moving towards establishing Ottawa as a swimming capital. This initiative follows the successful $20-million restoration of River House, which welcomed over 36,000 swimmers in its initial months. Additionally, the newly redeveloped Westboro Beach, a $21-million project co-funded by the NCC and the city, has also gained popularity among residents and visitors alike.

Despite initial skepticism about swimming in Dow’s Lake, water quality tests have shown that the lake’s water is among the cleanest in Ottawa. This initiative is seen as a challenge to the longstanding belief that swimming is unsafe in this waterway. Architect Toon Dreessen, president of Architects DCA in Ottawa, noted, “The idea that we could create a floating dock that people could swim from puts us on the same scale as what Paris has done with the Seine.”

The NCC’s strategy extends beyond swimming. It reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public spaces and engaging the community in new ways. With a renewed willingness to take risks, the NCC is moving towards more dynamic and responsive project management. This shift has been described as a seismic change for an organization historically viewed as slow and bureaucratic.

In addition to River House and Westboro Beach, the NCC has undertaken other significant projects, including the redesigned Kiweki Point, which offers panoramic views and is linked to Major’s Hill Park via an elevated walkway. Upcoming ventures include the modernization of the Lady Grey escarpment retaining wall and the revitalization of Lac Philippe campground in Gatineau Park.

The NCC’s exploration of smaller-scale projects, such as floating saunas, demonstrates its agile approach to urban development. A request for proposals for a floating sauna near NCC River House is already in circulation, reflecting a desire to introduce innovative, cost-effective recreational options.

According to Bill Leonard, vice president of real estate and development at the NCC, the push for innovation comes from the top. “Our CEO often refers us to Copenhagen for inspiration — how they have brought the city to enjoy the waterfront,” he stated. The NCC has been urged by the federal government to act “quicker, faster and lighter,” which has led to increased interest in urban swimming.

The NCC’s efforts are part of a broader trend seen in cities like Copenhagen, Paris, and Zurich, which have embraced urban swimming as a way to reconnect with their waterways. Nussbaum emphasized that the Dow’s Lake dock serves as an experimental pilot for unsupervised swimming, paving the way for similar initiatives throughout Ottawa.

As the NCC fosters a culture of creativity and risk-taking, it has also prioritized transparency. Nussbaum, who has led the organization since 2017, has emphasized public engagement through open meetings and consultations. The NCC is the only Crown corporation in Canada that allows public access to its meetings, furthering its commitment to accountability.

In recent years, the NCC has faced its share of criticism, including disagreements over the use of Queen Elizabeth Drive along the Rideau Canal. Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and Nussbaum publicly addressed differing opinions regarding the parkway’s accessibility, demonstrating the ongoing tension between the NCC’s vision and community needs.

While the NCC has been scrutinized for its past projects, including the delayed development of LeBreton Flats, recent agreements, such as the land-sale agreement with the Ottawa Senators, signal progress. The development plans for LeBreton Flats include thousands of new housing units and the creation of cafes and galleries, enhancing the area’s vibrancy.

Looking ahead, Nussbaum is optimistic about addressing the future of the Prime Minister’s residence at 24 Sussex Drive, acknowledging the need for a decision on its fate. He remains hopeful that the new government, established in May, will take decisive action on this matter.

As cities worldwide adapt to changing urban dynamics, the NCC’s innovative approach to swimming and public space development may serve as an example for others. Mary Rowe, president and CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute, commented on the NCC’s initiatives: “They are doing really interesting work. They have high aesthetic standards, and there are great assets in Ottawa that they have been able to riff off.”

With a commitment to enhancing Ottawa’s heritage and public spaces, the NCC is poised to redefine the city’s relationship with its waterways, making it a more accessible and engaging environment for residents and visitors alike.