Bank Street in the Glebe is one of Ottawa’s busiest corridors, serving a steady mix of drivers, transit riders, cyclists and pedestrians throughout the day.
The City of Ottawa is planning changes aimed at improving transit service along this stretch. A proposal approved by the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee would introduce dedicated bus lanes on sections of Bank Street, with implementation targeted for 2027.
The plan is designed to reduce delays by giving buses priority during periods of heavy traffic. Currently, buses share lanes with other vehicles, contributing to inconsistent travel times along the route.
More than 6,900 passengers use transit in this corridor each weekday, making it one of the busiest in the city. Improving reliability is a key objective of the project, according to city staff.
The proposal includes a combination of full-time and peak-period bus-only lanes between Highway 417 and the Rideau Canal. Some sections would operate exclusively for buses at all hours, while others would be restricted during morning and afternoon rush periods.
To make room for the lanes, some on-street parking would be removed. While the change is intended to improve transit efficiency, it has raised concerns among local businesses.
Business owners in the Glebe say parking availability can play a role in customer access, particularly in an area known for its shops and restaurants.
The project is expected to begin as a pilot program lasting about one year. During that time, the city will collect data on travel times, traffic flow and potential impacts on nearby businesses.
City officials say the results will help determine whether the changes should be made permanent or adjusted.
