Heart of Orléans BIA Position on Federal Employees Returning to the Office
The Heart of Orléans Business Improvement Area has consistently supported a more balanced distribution of federal employment across Ottawa, with a strong focus on increasing the presence of federal workers in Orléans. Our position is not about opposing office work or remote work—it is about ensuring that Orléans receives its fair share of federal employment opportunities and the economic benefits that come with them.
Through initiatives such as Balance Orléans and Capital 2020, the BIA has advocated for additional federal employment hubs within our boundary. Expanding federal employment in Orléans supports several key objectives: boosting the local economy, addressing the current uneven distribution of federal workers across the city, spurring sustainable growth, increasing two-way LRT ridership during peak periods, lowering our carbon footprint by reducing long commutes, and improving overall quality of life for residents and employees alike.
We have recently seen encouraging progress with the opening of a Service Canada office and a GCcoworking space at Place d’Orléans. These developments demonstrate the tangible benefits that federal employment brings to our community, from increased foot traffic to stronger support for local businesses.
As discussions continue around federal employees returning to the office, the Heart of Orléans BIA will continue to advocate for policies and investments that bring more federal jobs east. A stronger federal presence in Orléans is not only good for our members—it is good for Ottawa’s economic balance, transit system, and long-term sustainability. Please see below a copy of our letter to MP Lalonde, as well as her response.
Subject: Place Orléans Coworking space
Good morning MP Lalonde,
After reading the attached article in The Citizen, I wanted to follow up regarding the co-working space at Place d’Orléans. Can you please confirm whether there are plans for this location to close?
This space has been incredibly valuable for our community, not only in supporting federal employees with flexible workspace, but also in contributing to the local economy by keeping people working and spending closer to home. Given ongoing capacity challenges with full return-to-office, spaces like this play an important role in easing pressure while also supporting suburban economic activity.
From our perspective, maintaining, and ideally expanding co-working options in communities like Orléans aligns with broader goals around sustainability, reducing commute times, and strengthening local business districts.
We would strongly encourage continued advocacy for these types of spaces and would welcome any opportunity to support that conversation.
Thank you for your time and consideration, and we appreciate any updates you can share.
Hi Tannis,
The article was only referring to the Gatineau sites – as the landlord did not want to rent the space anymore.
The government is working towards permanent space for our public servant regarding its RTO policy . MP Lalonde should know more in the fall. But rest assure that she will continue to advocate on the plus value of Orléans workforce in the ecosystem of the public service and gov policy.
MP Lalonde was also told that the lease of the space at Place Orléans has been extended until 2029 .
MP Lalonde can confirm that the Place Orleans space will be used for Government employees.
Merci,
Anick