LAURIE WEIR
From community-wide accolades to multimillion-dollar investments in infrastructure and recreation, 2024 was a banner year for Carleton Place.
Mayor Toby Randell, reflecting on the year, called it “a year of achievements that reflect the strength and resilience of our community.”
The town secured $35,130,721.42 in grants, with a significant $35 million earmarked for the expansion of the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP).
Randell highlighted the importance of this funding: “This investment ensures that we can meet the needs of our growing population while planning sustainably for the future.”
Adding to the town’s accolades, Carleton Place earned the title of Best Small Town in a community-driven contest by CHEZ 106, a testament to the town’s vibrant spirit.
“This big win for our community shows what we can achieve when we come together,” said Randell.
Tourism and events took centre stage, with the expansion of Pumpkinfest into a three-day signature event and two sold-out concerts featuring Fred Eaglesmith and The East Pointers as part of the Festival of Small Halls.
“Our commitment to fostering tourism and culture is stronger than ever, and our collaboration with the Festival of Small Halls has been a fantastic success,” the mayor said.
The town also shone on the international stage, hosting Team Kazakhstan for the World Junior Championship, an event that drew excitement and global attention.
Carleton Place’s economic growth was marked by at least 11 ribbon cuttings and grand openings for new businesses.
In recreation, significant improvements included the opening of Coleman Central and Millers Crossing parks, accessibility upgrades along the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail (OVRT), and refurbished tennis courts.
Additionally, the community celebrated the grand opening of the Community Pad, a project completed through partnerships with local businesses, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and individual contributors.
The town also launched a redesigned main website, a new tourism website, and a soft launch of ‘Carleton Place Online,’ a community payment portal aimed at enhancing accessibility for residents and businesses.
Looking Ahead
As Carleton Place prepares for 2025, several transformative projects are on the horizon.
The town will open a new Emergency Department and a Health Hub, vital facilities that promise to enhance healthcare access for residents.
Work will also begin on the town’s water and wastewater expansion projects, a key step in supporting future growth.
Other major developments include provincial reconstruction work along the Highway 7 corridor, which will improve connectivity, and a continued focus on expanding festivals, concerts, and recreational amenities.
Randell said he is particularly excited about the ongoing support for local businesses and the strategic initiatives underway.
“One of the highlights tucked into our grant achievements is the Transportation Study, which aligns with our council’s vision for the town,” he said. “A win for Carleton Place is a win for our council and community alike.”
With a foundation of success in 2024 and ambitious plans for 2025, Carleton Place continues to solidify its place as a thriving, welcoming community for residents and visitors alike.