HomeWhether you live in Canada’s Capital Region or elsewhere in the country, you can participate in the planning and development efforts to create a distinctively Canadian capital — one that is a reflection of our country (i.e. young, geographically broad and culturally diverse). The federal government, through the NCC, is responsible for planning and developing the Capital Region to reflect Canada’s evolution as a nation.
Envisioning the evolution of the Capital over the next 50 years requires a great deal of thought and analysis, with a focus on the values, achievements and aspirations of Canadians. This design and development work involves collecting and considering a wide range of opinions and ideas to help shape the Capital as an expression of Canada,
- for Canadians, who gather in the Capital to recognize and pay tribute to our common values and history; and
- for visitors from around the world, who come to the Capital to learn about Canada and its people.
Remembering the Capital of a Century Ago
Despite its impressive natural setting, in the beginning, Ottawa was merely a military construction site, which later became a prosperous logging town. Ottawa was raised to the highest status among Canadian cities, when it was proclaimed the capital in 1857. Until 1899, the city developed more or less as circumstances dictated.
The initial vision and first improvements brought together politicians, urban planners, architects, engineers, landscape architects, business people and residents to develop a shared idea for the future of the Capital Region. This consensus, which lasted for more than a century, is the primary reason why the region has become a true national capital.
Imagine the Capital in 2067!
Based on a long tradition of planning, the NCC is working to develop an inspiring vision of the Capital as a reflection of the nation that will encourage the active participation of Canadians across the country. Many influences will shape the future of the Capital.
Open and ongoing dialogue will enable Canadians from coast to coast to coast to share their ideas and suggestions for the future of the Capital. Based on preliminary consultations, several major themes have already been identified. The Capital of the future will be
- vibrant, dynamic, inclusive and tuned in to Canadians;
- a window on the world and open to all;
- a model of sustainable mobility and environmentally friendly transportation;
- concerned with preserving its natural, cultural and heritage features;
- at the forefront of urban, architectural and engineering innovations;
- a place of networking, partnership and collaboration.
Join the Dialogue and Express Your Ideas!
An open and ongoing dialogue will allow Canadians of all backgrounds to share their ideas and opinions about the future of their country’s capital.
The NCC will also seek the opinions of young Canadians to create a capital that inspires them including during a Governor General’s Youth Dialogue at Rideau Hall and in cities across the country.
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