Author: Rob Attrell
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What to Expect When You’re Expecting… to Drive Everywhere
In many North American communities, the prevailing expectation is that driving is the primary, if not the only, way to get around. This assumption has shaped our transportation infrastructure in ways that often go unnoticed but have significant impacts on accessibility and livability. Streets and even whole suburban neighbourhoods are designed with cars in mind.…
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In the Suburbs, Everything Looks Like a Drive
The title of this post references the old adage, “When all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.” This saying is especially true when it comes to transportation in suburban Ottawa. If all you have is a car, everything looks like a drive. I have come to reject this car-dependent framing, not…
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Rethinking Suburban Living – A Path to Resilience and Affordability
As a resident of our suburban neighborhood with family roots here since the early 90s, I’ve come to appreciate the tranquility, space, and sense of calm that comes with living outside the hustle and bustle of the inner city. The wide streets, ample yards, and peaceful environment are some of the things people cherish most…
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Restoring the Heart of the Suburbs
Today, I’d like to share an idea with you. This might be something you have never thought about before, and in fact it may be a lot of work up front to convince you that thinking about this is even worth your time. If you’ve felt at one time or another – over the last…
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A Weekend in the Suburbs With No Car
For many suburban parents, reading the title of this article might send shivers down your spine. For a lot of families, one car per adult in the household is pretty typical, unless a car is in the shop or out of commission for some other reason. In my case, one of the reasons we are…
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Bike Commute and Errands – August 7, 2024
In a single, normal day, I biked over 41 km on my ebike. Starting in Orleans, I went downtown for work, then from downtown to the Ottawa Hospital (main campus), and finally from the hospital home. This trip was absolutely made possible (and was much cheaper and less physically demanding) by my ebike. And the…
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Orleans Blvd Overpass Design
I am writing today about the Orleans Blvd overpass design updates (Stage 2 LRT Station Connectivity Enhancement Study | Convent Glen Station (Orléans Boulevard)) which sort of came and went quietly since last year (and I was even trying to pay attention!). I understand that the solution proposed last year had its issues (namely conflict…
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Movement: how to take back our streets and transform our lives | Book Recommendation
I just finished this book, it’s a great read on the reasons why reducing car dependency and designing streets for people and not cars is so important for society. Highly recommended. Movement: how to take back our streets and transform our lives Thalia Verkade, Marco te Brömmelstroet
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Third Places and Their Role in the 15-Minute Neighbourhood
In the bustling rhythm of modern life, where screens dominate our attention and digital connections often replace face-to-face interactions, the concept of “Third Places” emerges as a beacon of community resilience. These spaces—whether a cozy cafe, a vibrant park, or a welcoming library—play a pivotal role in shaping the 15-minute neighbourhoods of tomorrow. Let us…