A waterfront for the world – Zibi unites two provinces, three cultures, and sustainability on the Ottawa River
November 4, 2020
Welcome to Zibi, the National Capital Region’s new borderless city: a master-planned community steeped in history that looks to the future. Following hundreds of years of closed industrial operation, these 34-acres bordering the river in Ottawa and Gatineau, and the magnificent Chaudière Falls, are finally open to the world. When completed, Zibi will be home to over 5,000 people who will enjoy everything from world-class parks and plazas to premiere shopping and dining at their doorstep.
A waterfront oasis
Rich in cultural heritage and history, Zibi’s waterfront location offers stunning views of Chaudière Falls, the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill. Residents and visitors alike can find a downtown escape thanks to nearly 8-acres of riverfront greenspaces in the 10 public parks and plazas.
Framed by Portage Bridge and Chaudière Crossing, Zibi allows for seamless connectivity between both cities all while prioritizing active and sustainable transportation by providing easy access to public transit routes, Ottawa’s new LRT, and one of Canada’s most extensive cycle networks.
Cultural destination
While the National Capital Region offers a wealth of world-class galleries and museums, Zibi has become a cultural destination in its own right with a diverse offering of entertainment for all. Zibi hosts sought-after events such as recurring Cirque du Soleil shows and public events ranging from dance parties and beach volley tournaments to upscale culinary events and a pop-up terrace bar with a view. Residents enjoy preferred access, discounted tickets and more!
This summer, Zibi adapted to the new social distancing requirements by hosting drive-in events at their festival ground, Place des Festivals. Ciné-Parc Urbain offered blockbuster movies in simultaneous French and English radio channels (a first in North America!) and the #CanadaPerforms at the RBC Bluesfest Drive-In live concert series featured celebrated Canadian musicians such as Sam Roberts Band, Marie-Mai, and Tim Hicks.
The region’s first carbon-neutral community
As Canada’s only One Planet Living-endorsed community, Zibi adheres to the 10 principles of the world-class One Planet Living framework developed by Bioregional and the World Wildlife Fund – from eliminating GHG emitting energy sources to integrating agriculture and encouraging social equity.
In partnership with Hydro Ottawa and Kruger Products, Zibi will develop the region’s first zero-carbon District Energy System (ZCU) relying on post-industrial waste energy for heating, and the Ottawa River for cooling in all its buildings. As a result, residents of Zibi can take pride in living in one of Canada’s most sustainable communities while enjoying all of the benefits Zibi has to offer.