Community
Old Ottawa South (OOS) is a vibrant urban community in the heart of Canada's capital with a population of approximately 3,000 households. The area developed as an early suburb at the turn of the last century, and was annexed by the City in 1907. Growth proceeded quickly after that, and many of the solid red brick and clapboard homes that filled the neighbourhood are still lovingly maintained. Growth is continuing to this day, as appropriate infill becomes the clarion call to keep Ottawa's urban boundary contained and the downtown healthy—without losing the City's urban lungs or its famous front porches to ashfalt and garage doors.
The community is defined by its waterways: bounded on the north by the World Heritage Rideau Canal, and on the south and east by the Rideau River as it winds its way north to spill into the Ottawa River. Carleton University forms its western boundary, adding an academic flair to the character of Old Ottawa South.
Residents here are committed to the principles of walkability and environmental sustainability. Bank Street runs as a traditional main street spine through the centre of the community, offering a variety of retail options: from cafés, restaurants and toy stores, to second-hand clothing and antiques, as well as fine take-out, catering, and kitchen stores, including a full-service grocery store—Cedars & Co. And it's all within walking distance for locals, with good parking for visitors.
The area is well serviced by transit. Four major bus routes take residents downtown or south, and the "O-Train" takes students and others north and south at Carleton University. And there are "VirtuCars" available for those who need occasional wheels but wish to respect the environment by not owning a car.
Our population is a mix of older residents who've lived here for years and young families who like the quality of the schools and recreational options nearby. There is a substantial university student population, who liven up the streets each September when they shop the annual Porch Sale to furnish their new digs.
The OSCA Community Association is very active, organizing hugely popular programs and special events that serve to strengthen community bonds. Many residents actively participate as volunteers and coaches, and some neighbourhoods hold annual events to celebrate their own uniqueness, such as the Brighton Beach Clam Bake and the Pansy Avenue block party.
There are several excellent parks that preserve nature on the river and provide good fun for children and dogs: local volunteers are proactive in helping maintain them and keeping them clean and safe. Children's play areas, water parks, skating rinks, and a llocal indoor pool are also part of the mix. Just to the north over the bridge is the city's "Jewel in the Crown", Lansdowne Park, with its 1898 Aberdeen Pavilion and its "all local" farmer's market, which in 2011-13 will be entering a new phase of redevelopment.
Old Ottawa South is a great place to live, and with our commitment to greener living, walkability and sustainable growth, will become even better, especially as residents become more involved in their neigbhourhood by joining the Old Ottawa South Community Association. Everyone who lives, works, or owns property here is encouraged to join the association, or serve as a volunteer, or on the Board. Please join us in making OOS a better place to live!
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