Sprints and Marathons: What Track Meets Can Teach Us About Cars, Bikes, and Better Cities

When we talk about city planning and transportation, the conversation often turns into a battle of extremes—cars versus bikes, highways versus bike lanes, speed versus sustainability. But maybe we’re framing the issue all wrong. What if, instead of pitting one against the other, we thought of our transportation network the way we think about a …

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Permanent link to this article: https://lesscar.ca/2025/04/16/sprints-and-marathons-what-track-meets-can-teach-us-about-cars-bikes-and-better-cities/#new_tab

The Beat – Heart of Orleans Newsletter – April 10, 2025

The Beat is your guide to the vibrant pulse of our community. It is dedicated to fostering a thriving and connected business district. We aim to showcase the diverse array of businesses, events and initiatives that make our neighbourhood a dynamic and welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.

Permanent link to this article: https://mailchi.mp/heartoforleans/the-beat-april10?e=ac380a85e9#new_tab

You’ve Tried “Buy Local.” Next, Try “Live Local.”

person gather hand and foot in center

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com Most of us have heard the phrase “Buy Local.” It’s a feel-good reminder that shopping close to home supports small businesses and keeps money circulating in our community. And in Convent Glen – Orléans Wood, we’re lucky to have a growing number of independent shops, markets, and services …

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Permanent link to this article: https://cgow.ca/youve-tried-buy-local-next-try-live-local

City Zoning FAQ – Neighbourhood Change

🏘️ Why consider more flexible zoning in our suburban community? After posting lots of content talking up gentle neighbourhood urbanization over the last 6 months or so, I’ve put all of the big questions and concerns raised by residents over zoning and community character in one place. I’ve also provided some information in response to …

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Permanent link to this article: https://cgow.ca/city-zoning-faq-neighbourhood-change

A Superpowered City

In the bustling city of Metropolis, a groundbreaking research project promised to change the world. The project, funded by the wealthiest citizens, aimed to replicate the powers of Superman. For a hefty fee, participants could gain super strength, flight, and other extraordinary abilities. As more people joined the project, Metropolis began to transform.

Permanent link to this article: https://lesscar.ca/2025/04/04/a-superpowered-city/#new_tab

Maintaining Neighbourhood Character in a Time of Change

I am currently in the process of reviewing the 2nd draft of the zoning bylaw that just got published, and I felt the need to do something fun like writing an article for the newsletter instead because zoning is REALLY boring. One concept that comes up a lot in zoning discussions is the concept of …

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Permanent link to this article: https://cgow.ca/maintaining-neighbourhood-character-in-a-time-of-change

Ottawa Zoning Bylaw Changes Summary

As some of you may be aware, the City of Ottawa is currently in the process of updating its zoning bylaw. I have attended several meetings on the subject as part of the Federation of Citizen’s Association general meetings and as part of the FCA’s Planning and Zoning Committee and one workshop organized by …

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Permanent link to this article: https://cgow.ca/ottawa-zoning-bylaw-changes-summary

Who I Am and Why I’m Here – Meet Rob

Even from my perspective, this is kind of a strange thing for me to write and put in a community newsletter, but I do hope you choose to read it and hopefully take something away from it. I’ve just finished writing about what I’ve learned about the community in my 6 months involved in …

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Permanent link to this article: https://cgow.ca/who-i-am-and-why-im-here-meet-rob