By Victoria Williston, ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA)
Community safety and well-being is one of the top issues raised about the ByWard Market. In an ongoing effort to enhance safety and security for everyone who calls the ByWard Market home or a place of work, Ottawa Police Services (OPS) and the ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) are launching a collaborative Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) initiative. OPS is also engaging with residents and other stakeholders to deliver additional audits.
Understanding CPTED: Designing for safety and community
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design is about more than just reducing crime – it is about fostering a sense of security and belonging for everyone in the community, including our most vulnerable neighbours. By shaping the physical environment with care, CPTED seeks to create spaces where all people feel safer and more connected.
For the ByWard Market, CPTED audits represent an important opportunity to significantly improve safety and security. These audits can transform an area, making it more inviting and accessible, and ensuring that businesses can thrive while supporting every community member’s well-being. The potential benefits are immense, and we are excited to begin this process.
Engaging in tactical placemaking
The BMDA has already been engaging in various forms of tactical placemaking to enhance the community environment and promote safety. These efforts include:
• Street murals and lighting: Adding vibrant street murals and improved lighting to create a more inviting and visually appealing public space.
• Improved public realm: Placemaking projects often include beautification efforts such as murals, landscaping, and street furniture, making spaces more aesthetically pleasing.
• Boosted local economy: Pop-up markets, food trucks, and other temporary installations attract visitors, boost local businesses, and create economic opportunities.
• Gathering points and inclusivity: Creating welcoming gathering points that encourage inclusivity and community engagement.
• Activating public spaces: Organizing events and activities that bring people together and make public spaces lively and dynamic.
Free CPTED audits and provincial funding
All CPTED audits are offered free of charge by OPS to businesses and residents in the ByWard Market and downtown core. However, only selected participants will be eligible for provincial funding to support implementing the CPTED recommendations. This funding is part of a broader initiative to enhance safety and security throughout the community, ensuring that the ByWard Market and surrounding areas remain vibrant, welcoming, and secure for everyone.
Participate in the CPTED audit program
Are there properties you think would benefit from a CPTED audit?
The BMDA remains committed to supporting safety initiatives that benefit the entire community. A survey of district property owners and businesses has already been distributed, but we invite businesses and residents to let us know if there is an area or property that might benefit from an OPS CPTED audit. Please email us at info@bmda.ca with the subject line “CPTED.”
By participating in the CPTED audit program, we can work together to create a ByWard Market where everyone feels safe, welcome, and valued. Let’s continue to build a community that supports and cares for all its members.
Please also remember to sign up for the Business Insider e-newsletter at byward-market.com/newsletter. This newsletter, which is open to everyone, will provide information, updates, and resources relevant to both residents and businesses. It’s a valuable way to stay informed and connected with our community, ensuring you are always up to date with the latest news and developments.
