Riverside South is a suburban community located in the Gloucester-South Nepean Ward in the south end of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. This rapidly developing suburb is just southwest of Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport and was part of the city of Gloucester before its amalgamation with the city of Ottawa in 2001.
Riverside South was initially forested land that transformed into farmland and small settlements in the early part of the 19th century. The area saw rapid development in the second half of the 19th century, driven by immigration largely due to the construction of the Rideau Canal. It remained mostly farmland until the late 20th century. Today, River Road, which was merely a trail in the 19th century, forms one of the suburb's borders.
In the early 1990s, the area was mostly vacant with a few houses and farms. A planned multi-builder community was launched in 1997, which includes a diverse range of properties from condo flats, low-rise condos, townhomes, bungalows to two-story singles. The community is being developed by prominent builders HN Homes, Richcraft Homes, and Urbandale Construction.
The suburb is growing rapidly and is expected to house approximately 50,000 people by the early 2030s, making it a major community in Ottawa's south end.
Riverside South is an ideal location for families with its healthy local economy, natural attractions, and a strong sense of community. It offers residents a peaceful, suburban environment within a half-hour drive of downtown Ottawa. The community lies along the beautiful eastern shores of the Rideau River, opposite Barrhaven, with which it is connected by the Vimy Memorial Bridge. It's also conveniently located a short drive southwest of Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport.
Riverside South is home to numerous local amenities, including the Riverside South Medical Centre, which offers a range of healthcare services to the community. For optical needs, residents have access to eyeDOCS Riverside South, a comprehensive optometry clinic. The Douvris Martial Arts center offers specialized karate programs for children, focusing on building confidence, strength, and a positive sense of physical and mental well-being.
As of the 2021 Canada Census, the population of Riverside South was 19,802 with a density of 690 per km².
Residents of Riverside South are part of the Riverside South Community Association, which organizes local events and works for the betterment of the community.
Riverside South is on a trajectory to become a significant community in the coming years, with continuous growth and development. Its desirable location, natural beauty, community spirit, and variety of amenities make it an attractive place for families and individuals alike.
