The Short Life of the Ottawa & New York Railway

February 14, 2024 Hansonthebike 2

Reading Time: 12 minutes At some time in our history, Ottawa had a direct train connection to the Adirondecks and Tupper Lake in New York State via Cornwall. From there, you could travel further south to New York City. The original idea was to create a direct connection to NY, NY, but that didn’t materialise. (with video of the route)

The Food Map of Merivale Road in 2024

February 8, 2024 Hansonthebike 3

Reading Time: 4 minutes This is the second year I am posting a Merivale Rd Food map. The 2024 Merivale Food map shows all food outlets on a stretch of Merivale Road, and the post describes who left and who started.

An image showing a polar bear and a pinguin skating between and around data about the Rideau Canal skateway

Will the Rideau Canal open for skating this year?

January 11, 2024 Hansonthebike 0

Reading Time: 5 minutes The Rideau Canal in Ottawa has been a beloved skating destination since 1970. However, warmer winters are affecting its ice quality and duration. With fewer days open in recent years, speculation arises about this year’s opening. Upcoming cold nights could lead the canal to open end of January and when it does, don’t wait to go out.

photo of Brian Smith at the Hans on the bike little library

My Free Little Library in Ottawa

June 18, 2023 Hansonthebike 1

Reading Time: 6 minutes Last year I built my own little library. I was nervous it would be vandalised but now, a year later, I can confirm it is a big success. Ottawa’s Transportation Committee will soon discuss new (modest) rules for curb site little libraries.