Adàwe crossing name links past with present for new pedestrian bridge

Ottawa City Council has approved the name Adàwe crossing for the new pedestrian bridge that, following its opening on December 4, will link Donald Street and Somerset Street East. This new link will provide pedestrians and cyclists with easy access to the communities, amenities and employment located on either side of the Rideau River.

The name Adàwe is the Algonquin term meaning “to trade” and is symbolic of the history of the Rideau River, the aboriginal heritage of the area and the bridge’s ability to link the communities on either side.

The bridge name was chosen following a six-month, three-stage naming process, which included public consultation and a Selection Committee comprised of Rideau-Rockcliffe Councillor Tobi Nussbaum and Rideau-Vanier Ward Councillor Mathieu Fleury, the Overbrook Community Association, Action Sandy Hill, community  members from Overbrook and Sandy Hill, Heritage Ottawa, City staff, and a representative from the Mayor’s office. The Algonquins of Ontario Consultation Office was also involved in the process.

The bridge is being readied for public use, and the opening event will be held on December 4 at 1 p.m.