Enjoy new public spaces and programming in Centretown and Chinatown this summer

The Street Seats pilot program will transform select streets in Centretown and Chinatown into shared public spaces this summer.

From June to October, residents and visitors can enjoy shared public spaces on select streets in Centretown and Chinatown as part of the Street Seats pilot program. 

Residents and visitors can enjoy:

• More space to walk, sit and connect with friends
• Free programming like pop-up art, live music, movement sessions and workshops
• A refreshed streetscape designed for people and community

Delivered in partnership with the Centretown and Chinatown Business Improvement Areas, Street Seats supports the Centretown Street Safety and Revitalization Action Plan by helping create inviting, safe, and vibrant mainstreets. 

Building on last year’s success, Street Seats returns to Centretown this summer with locations on MacLaren Street, Frank Street and Waverley Street. New for this year, the program is expanding into Chinatown with a location on Cambridge Street.

Traffic impacts

From Tuesday, May 19 to mid-October 2026, the following temporary street changes will be in effect:

• MacLaren Street – east of Bank Street: Local vehicle access remains. Angled parking near Bank Street will be converted into public space for the season and access through to Bank Street will be reduced to one lane.
• Frank Street – east of Bank Street: The street will be temporarily converted to two-way local traffic and closed to vehicle access at Bank Street.
• Waverley Street – east of Bank Street: The street will be temporarily converted to two-way local traffic with minor reductions to on-street parking and closed to vehicle access at Bank Street.
• Cambridge Street – south of Somerset Street: All local traffic to Cambridge will be accessed via Christie Street.

These spaces will be open only to pedestrians. Accommodations will be made for local vehicle traffic. Cyclists will be asked to dismount and walk their bikes through the affected spaces.

For updates, maps, and upcoming programming, visit engage.ottawa.ca for local events and activities, visit centretownottawa.ca and ottawachinatown.ca.