The City of Ottawa allocated money for infrastructure, library, and arts improvements in Centretown in its 2014 draft budget tabled Wednesday morning.
Infrastructure projects include improvements to the East-West bikeway and continued road renewal work on Gladstone Avenue. Sections of Nepean Street’s sidewalks and curbs will be repaired, and Slater and Booth streets will both be resurfaced.
The Ottawa Public Library’s Main branch, located at Laurier and Metcalfe streets, will have technological improvements as well as other plans for renewal and modernization in 2014.
In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, McNabb Community Centre will receive $29,000 for new cupboards and counters in its pottery studio.
The city allocated $1.2 million to continue the fight against the emerald ash borer, an invasive insect that has destroyed many ash trees in the Centretown area.
Council’s directive that tax increases not exceed two per cent has been upheld in the budget. Taxes are expected to increase 1.9 per cent.
Continued improvements to municipal customer service will allow Ottawa residents to view and pay water bills online and let businesses also view service accounts online.
City-wide public consultations regarding the budget will take place from Oct. 28 to Nov. 7, 2013.