Doors Open Ottawa announces this year’s participating buildings

Residents and visitors alike will soon discover the secrets that lay hidden behind many of the city’s finest buildings during Doors Open Ottawa 2015. The 14

th

annual event offers the public a chance to explore Ottawa’s built heritage from Carp to Cumberland.

“Doors Open has become one of Ottawa’s premiere events, reinforcing our reputation as a warm and welcoming city,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “The hospitable atmosphere of the Doors Open weekend will leave visitors with a memorable and lasting impression of Ottawa’s rich heritage, and inspire residents with a sense of hometown, community pride.”

Mayor Watson was joined today by Councillor Diane Deans, Chair of the City’s Community and Protective Services Committee, River Ward Councillor Riley Brockington, and representatives of this year’s participating buildings to officially launch Doors Open Ottawa and to announce the complete list of participating buildings.

On June 6 and 7, visitors will have free access to a total of 129 buildings, including 22 new additions to this year’s roster. New additions will include the Rideau Club, which will unlock 150 years of history and tradition, the Canadian Blood Services Processing Plant, the newly renovated Festival House, which houses the RBC Bluesfest, and the Advanced Research Complex at the University of Ottawa.

The complete list of buildings is an eclectic mix of modern and heritage architecture that celebrates the city’s culturally, historically, and functionally significant buildings. Doors Open Ottawa offers something for everyone, from municipal facilities and government buildings to private businesses, artists’ studios and places of worship, to embassies and high commissions of countries across the globe.

“It’s clear from the number of attendees we see year after year that Doors Open Ottawa continues to resonate,” said Councillor Deans. “The City owes an immense thank-you to the generous sponsors, the legions of volunteers and the participating buildings that make this event possible.”

Visitors to the region can join the 75,000 people expected to attend this year’s event, and are encouraged to take advantage of the free OC Transpo shuttle bus sponsored by the _ Ottawa Citizen _ . More than 50 downtown buildings involved are easily accessible from the shuttle loop, making it an effective way to explore.

For a full listing of participating buildings and information about the shuttle bus, visit ottawa.ca/doorsopen or pick up a Doors Open Ottawa event guide at any Bridgehead location. Guides will also be distributed through the _ Ottawa Citizen _ and _ LeDroit _ on May 28, 29 and 30.