The National Capital Commission is considering the possibility of building two toll bridges across the Ottawa River, according to Chair Marcel Beaudry.

The issue of toll bridges reared its head at the National Capital Commission's second public annual general meeting Wednesday night, where about 100 members of the public turned out to hear about the Commission's plans for the capital.

Ottawa Mayor Bob Chiarelli is putting a damper on reports that there has been a breakthrough agreement with the City of Gatineau over bridge construction.

Chiarelli says the two cities are meeting to discuss the possible construction of the bridges. But, while progress has been made, there's nothing substantial yet, he says.

"I don't want to raise expectations on an early solution, or create undue fears for people who are concerned about particular locations," said Chiarelli.

He says the cities have agreed to proceed with an environmental study. That will help determine which of the six site proposals will be chosen. Five levels of government have to agree to any proposal.

He says it's still not clear who'll pay for the bridges. Chiarelli acknowledges that a toll is a possibility.

NCC and dogs

As always, dogs were a major topic. The NCC's Michelle Comeau detailed all the steps the NCC took to consult with the public before making the new rules on domestic animals.

She said polling carried out by the NCC proves the Commission got it right when it restricted off-leash areas and the number of dogs one person can walk.

"Seventy-five per cent of the overall population surveyed strongly or generally agreed," said Comeau. Even among dog owners, there was 62 per cent support.

On the Daly site

NCC chair Beaudry told the meeting about the development of LeBreton Flats and the new Canadian War Museum. But, he also pointed to another project he says will revitalize the city's core: the Daly site at Rideau and Sussex.

"The building should be finished in early 2004 and will inject new vitality into the area. In addition to two floors of retail space, 70 residential units will be added to the housing supply of the downtown core. This project conforms in every way to the housing objectives of the City of Ottawa."

The NCC started holding annual meetings last year to counter critics who accused it of being unaccountable to people who live in the capital.