King Edward Avenue (Ottawa)
King Edward Avenue is a major arterial road in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. It runs in a north-south direction, primarily serving as a key route connecting the downtown core to the eastern parts of the city, including the Highway 417 interchange and Vanier.
The avenue is characterized by a mix of residential, commercial, and institutional buildings. Notably, it runs along the western edge of the University of Ottawa campus. Significant buildings and institutions located on or near King Edward Avenue include various University of Ottawa buildings, embassies (particularly those clustered near Sussex Drive), and residential buildings catering to students and young professionals.
King Edward Avenue has been subject to numerous debates and studies regarding traffic management and pedestrian safety. Due to its high traffic volume and mixed land use, it often experiences congestion, particularly during peak hours. There have been proposals and implemented changes over the years to address these issues, including speed limit adjustments, lane reconfigurations, and improved pedestrian infrastructure. The street carries a high volume of truck traffic, which has led to community concerns regarding noise and safety. Discussions continue regarding potential solutions to mitigate the impact of truck traffic on the residential areas along the avenue.
The street also serves as a major bus route for OC Transpo, Ottawa's public transit system.