Having been featured in the Canadian Automobile Association’s Worst Roads in Ontario 2016 list this past summer, the City of Ottawa has not escaped the criticism of its road maintenance. The list, as voted on by residents of Ontario, identifies five roads in Ottawa that are lacking in investment and infrastructure. One reason for this can be identified in the city’s Adopted Budget 2016 which shows an approximately $7, 000 decrease in investment from 2015.
Dale Harley, executive advisor for the National Capital Heavy Construction Association, says he will continue to attend and be vocal at city budget meetings until councillors “gets it right”.
Mayor says record investment in social programs, cycling and arts. What about core services such as roads?
— Dale Harley (@DaleRHarley) October 18, 2016
Throughout this criticism of road conditions, Service Ottawa has released data that suggests calls or complaints regarding the matter has steadily declined since 2013. CBC traffic reporter Doug Hempstead emphasized that instead of calling Service Ottawa, residents are finding more responsive outlets as they slowly become aware of the commitments and decisions made by the city that result in poor road conditions.
The following audio report highlights this issue.