School Streets Feasibility Study

Every school day, the space outside our schools tells a story about what we prioritize.

Fast-moving traffic, idling cars, and congestion can crowd out what should be a safe, welcoming place for children. School Streets reimagine this moment of the day by temporarily opening streets to people instead of vehicles—creating calmer, healthier spaces where students can walk, bike, scoot, connect, and arrive at school safely. Around the world, this simple shift has been shown to reduce traffic and air pollution, improve safety, and strengthen community life.

These projects have the data to back it up:

• 65% of air pollution removed from the school zone in Mississauga 
• 30% increase in walking rates and 51% increase in cycling rates in Hackney, UK 
• 90% of school staff saw a positive effect on children’s well-being in Vancouver 
• 70% reduction in congestion on neighbouring streets in Hamilton 
• 49% of parents found the project helpful for meeting other parents in Kingston 

The Ottawa School Streets Feasibility Study, prepared by EnviroCentre in 2024, in partnership with the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority, explores what it would take to bring this people-centred approach to Ottawa.

Drawing on lessons from other Canadian cities, local policy analysis, and conversations with school communities, city staff, and advocates, the study looks beyond the idea to the practical realities of implementation. It examines different models for School Streets, considers equity and community impact, and identifies the systems, supports, and partnerships needed to make them work.

What emerges is a clear opportunity.

With the right leadership, collaboration, and care, School Streets could become a powerful tool to support active transportation, healthier children, and more livable neighbourhoods in Ottawa. It’s not rocket science; it’s just temporarily changing the way we use our public space.

This study offers a thoughtful roadmap—starting with pilots and learning by doing—to help decision-makers and communities take the next step toward streets that better reflect our shared values and climate, health, and safety goals.

Update: Ottawa approves School Streets

In March 2026, the City of Ottawa gave School Streets the green light. This decision makes the findings of this study more relevant than ever. If you’re interested in supporting School Streets, we’d love to connect.