The Unsung Cartographer: How One Man's Passion Mapped Ottawa's Cycling Revolution

Imagine setting out for a bike ride, only to find yourself lost or rerouted by a confusing patchwork of paths. For many cyclists in Ottawa, this was a frustrating reality. But for Hans van Leeuwen, it was a call to action. At 79 years young, this dedicated resident didn't just dream of a better cycling city; he meticulously mapped it, creating an indispensable guide that's transforming how Ottawa navigates on two wheels.

Van Leeuwen’s journey began not with a grand plan, but with a simple, personal frustration.

An avid cyclist himself, he grew weary of the city's fragmented cycling maps and the lack of a cohesive resource. "I couldn't find a map that showed me what I wanted to know," he explains, highlighting the need for clarity on everything from separated bike lanes to quiet streets suitable for a leisurely ride.

It was this gap in information, coupled with his deep passion for cycling, that ignited a multi-year project of love and dedication.

What started as a personal quest soon evolved into an exhaustive civic undertaking. Armed with Google Maps, a keen eye, and countless hours spent on his bike and on foot, van Leeuwen systematically cataloged every single cycling route in Ottawa.

His map isn't just a collection of lines; it's a detailed classification system, distinguishing between segregated paths, shared-use pathways, designated bike lanes, sharrows, and even identifying safe, quiet streets ideal for less experienced riders or families. This level of detail has made his map a true goldmine for cyclists of all abilities.

The impact of van Leeuwen's work extends far beyond individual riders.

His comprehensive map has become an unofficial but highly respected reference point, not only for the cycling community but also for urban planners and city officials. It vividly illustrates the current state of Ottawa's cycling infrastructure, crucially highlighting the disconnections and "missing links" that prevent the city from having a truly integrated and safe network.

His tireless efforts underscore a vital message: cycling infrastructure should be for everyone, regardless of age or experience, and it should offer safe, seamless journeys across the city.

Van Leeuwen’s advocacy isn't just about mapping existing routes; it's about pushing for a future where cycling is genuinely accessible and safe for all.

He champions the creation of a "network, not just a bunch of pieces," envisioning a cohesive system that encourages more people to embrace cycling as a viable mode of transportation and recreation. Supported by his wife and driven by an unwavering commitment to his community, Hans van Leeuwen continues to be a beacon for smarter urban planning and a greener, more bike-friendly Ottawa, proving that one person’s passion can indeed chart a course for an entire city’s future.