City's Waste Management Calendar Available For Pickup

The City of Peterborough’s annual 2025 Waste Management Calendar is available for pickup at City Hall, 500 George St. N., at the customer service desk in the City Hall lobby.

File Photo.

The calendar can also be viewed online or downloaded.

The Waste Management Calendar highlights curbside collection dates, information for Green Bin, garbage and yard waste and information about the City-County Landfill and the Hazardous and Electronic Waste Depot.

Residents can also download the City of Peterborough waste collection app from their app store. The app allows users to search their home addresses to find specific information on:

• Waste collection days

• View, download or print the Waste Collection calendar

• See any pickup changes due to holidays

• Sign up for automatic notices of changes

• Get notified of weather delays

• Sign up for weekly reminders and service alerts

• Add a schedule to their personal calendar

The City would also like to remind residents that the final week for curbside yard waste collection service will be Nov. 26 to 29.

Residents are reminded that in late fall, when temperatures drop below freezing, yard waste can freeze, sticking to the sides of bins and causing issues with collection.

To ensure full pickup of yard waste, residents should consider disposing of it in bags to avoid partially frozen material being left in a bin after collection.

The curbside yard waste collection program resumes in April.

Yard waste is accepted year-round at the Peterborough landfill at 1260 Bensfort Rd. in Otonabee-South Monaghan. Fees will apply.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

City of Peterborough Provides Update On Brealey Drive Construction

Brealey Drive between Lansdowne Street West and Mapleridge Drive has reopened to through traffic as progress continues on the major infrastructure project.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The project includes replacing storm sewers, sanitary sewers, and water mains, as well as installing a multi-use trail, street lighting, sidewalks, cycling lanes, and rebuilding the road.

The complete project along Brealey Drive from Lansdowne Street to Sherbrooke Street is divided into two phases. Phase 1, which started in the spring of 2024, focuses on the section between Lansdowne Street and Mapleridge Drive. Phase 2, which encompasses the section from Mapleridge Drive to Sherbrooke Street, is scheduled for the 2025 construction season.

The reopening following Phase 1 construction includes temporary exceptions. The northbound on-road cycling lane and the east sidewalk will remain closed until the signalized intersection is activated this winter.

The major infrastructure project along Brealey Drive between Lansdowne and Sherbrooke Streets has a budget of $20.7 million.

The construction includes:

• Replacing storm sewers

• Replacing sanitary sewers

• Replacing watermains

• New street lighting

• New concrete curb and gutters

• New concrete sidewalk on the east side of Brealey Drive

• Building a new off-street, multi-use trail on the west side of Brealey Drive

• On-street cycling lanes

• Implementation of traffic signals at Cherryhill Road, Kawartha Heights Boulevard, and Hewitt Drive, with enhanced cycling and pedestrian crossing facilities as well as turning lanes to enhance all traffic movements and corridor efficiency at these intersections

• Restoration of boulevards

• Signage, landscaping, and pavement markings

• Rebuilding the roadway granular base and the asphalt roadway

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

City of Peterborough Details Social Services Mail Delivery During Canada Post Strike

Details have been released on how Social Services clients and vendors typically receive cheques, statements, or letters by mail from the City of Peterborough.

File Photo.

During the Canada Post strike, they can pick up the items at the Social Services office at 178 Charlotte St. during office hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Staff will notify those who receive cheques when their payments will be available for pick-up. 

People must show identification when picking up cheques, statements, or letters at Social Services.

For clients who can receive direct deposit, Social Services is encouraging them to arrange for direct deposit or reloadable payment cards as an alternative and to ensure they are signed up for the MyBenefits program to track payments and support communication.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

No Injunction For Bonnerworth Park Construction Says City of Peterborough

The City of Peterborough says that there is no injunction against the Bonnerworth Park construction project and there is no scheduled court date.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

As stated by the City, construction of a bike pump track, expanded skateboard park, pickleball courts, and associated features at Bonnerworth Park at Monaghan Road and McDonnel Street continues.

The City also states that reports that the Superior Court of Justice will hear Friends of Bonnerworth Park's application on Nov. 25 are incorrect.

The City has been informed that the applicant’s law firm, Kraemer LLP, does not intend to handle the injunction application going forward and that Friends of Bonnerworth Park plans to retain new legal counsel.

On Nov. 12, the City Council approved direction authorizing the City to respond to the injunction application in the Superior Court of Justice.

The City’s public communications on it will be through legal counsel and its response to the court filing.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

United Way Reaches 30 Per Cent of Fundraising Goal; City Holds Chili Cook-Off & Bake Sale Fundraiser

Twelve chilis and baked goods made by City of Peterborough staff helped raise money for United Way Peterborough & District as the latter has announced that they raised 30 per cent ($450,000) of their $1.5 million fundraising goal at the McDonnel Street Activity Centre on Wednesday.

Mayor Jeff Leal was a judge to try our 12 different chilis made by City of Peterborough staff. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The United Way set its $1.5 million goal on Sept. 11 which runs until March 31.

The announcement occurred during the City of Peterborough's workplace campaign launch event.

“United Way Peterborough & District and the City of Peterborough have had a longstanding partnership which has included running one of the most successful workplace campaigns for a number of years,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Workplace campaigns were threatened by the pandemic, making it difficult to build community and engage employees in the campaign. Today, the City of Peterborough hosting their annual chili cook-off once again is a sign that we are turning over a new page in our community.”

The ‘30%’ signs were made from pictures of chili bowls. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Russell continued emphasizing the importance of hitting the campaign goal based on the community's needs.

“There is a rising need for support services in our community and a dwindling number of other funding sources available to sustain these services,” said Russell. “Participating in the United Way campaign means that you are building community by contributing to the largest non-government funder of social services.”

He continued to speak about the energy he has felt on the campaign trail and the power of the new donation match challenge.

“It has never been as easy as it is today to extend the reach of your gift through the Double Your Difference initiative,” said Russell. “We're finding that the energy of this year's campaign is contagious, with workplaces facilitating more creative employee giving opportunities than we have seen in recent years.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Miskin Law Community Complex Projected to Be Officially Open In January Says City of Peterborough

Construction of the new Miskin Law Community Complex at Lansdowne and Park Streets is nearing completion according to the City of Peterborough.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The official opening is planned for January next year and details for the ceremony will be announced in December.

The new community complex will include a twin-pad arena, a Peterborough Public Library branch, an indoor walking track, multi-purpose space and leasable office space.

The official opening is a few weeks later than initially anticipated. Construction on the $68.5-million facility began in December 2022 and was scheduled to be completed by late December 2024.

The contractor is working with the City of Peterborough to ensure the quality of the finished facility meets expectations for exceptional user experiences at Miskin Law Community Complex. Community user groups are expected to be able to access the space beginning on Jan. 15.

The City will take a phased approach to opening the Miskin Law Community Complex in a way that meets the needs of arena user groups and upcoming tournaments.

The Peterborough Public Library branch at Miskin Law Community Complex will open in February 2025.

Following the official opening event in January, the City will invite the community to visit the new facility, including offering free public skating opportunities.

The City will work with user groups to plan for scheduled use/ice time rentals and ensure ice pads are available for community tournaments. During off-peak facility use hours, minor work may continue to be completed at Miskin Law Community Complex.

Community events and unveiling other spaces within the Miskin Law Community Complex will occur in the weeks following the official opening.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

The Chemong Portage 'Right of Way' Project Installation Nears Completion

A new public art installation, Right of Way, featuring work from Indigenous artists celebrating the traditional Chemong Portage route, is being installed and will be completed this month.

Right of Way is the latest project funded through the City of Peterborough’s Public Art Program. File Photo.

It is a commemorative project featuring works by Indigenous artists Tia Cavanagh, David Beaucage Johnson, Yvonne Garbutt, William Kingfisher, Josh Morley and Nuin Tara Wilson.

The City of Peterborough commissioned the artists to create original artwork for vinyl wraps to be installed on traffic signal cabinets and electrical supply boxes at intersections close to what is thought to be the traditional route of the Chemong Portage. Each artwork represents a traveller on the route. Together, the project tells the portage story and makes history visible says Shelley M. Knott, the City's Advisor, Indigenous Relations.

“Right of Way serves as a powerful bridge between past and present, visually highlighting deep connections to land and space while honouring Indigenous people along the historic Chemong Portage,” she said. “It invites both residents and visitors to connect with and respect the enduring legacy of this route.”

The route begins at Dalhousie and George Streets and continues north through downtown, crossing intersections along George and Water Streets until it reaches Brock Street. From there, it veers west, weaving to Parkhill and Chemong roads. It then follows Chemong Road to Broadway Boulevard.

“Public art transforms everyday spaces into places of meaning and connection. Right of Way beautifies our city and honours the stories and culture of the Indigenous peoples who travelled the Chemong Portage. It’s a celebration of history, told in vivid, modern form, that invites everyone to reflect and engage,” said Councillor Alex Bierk and Councillor Lesley Parnell.

Installation began in September and is expected to be completed in mid-November.

Finishing touches include mounting an information panel and portage map at each intersection. The panel also features links to an audio recording of ‘The Story of the Chemong Portage’ by Gidigaa Miigizi (Doug Williams), read by Anne Taylor of Curve Lake First Nation. The recording is in Anishinaabemowin and English. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Mayor Jeff Leal's Housing Task Force Releases Report

Mayor Jeff Leal has released the report from his Task Force for Housing Creation, announced near the Rotary Trail on Tuesday morning. 

Mayor Leal served as Chair of the Task Force, with Councillor Kevin Duguay as Vice Chair and Councillors Dave Haacke and Keith Riel providing input. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The report contains 15 recommendations intended to speed up housing construction in the City and help address the housing crisis. 

Mayor Leal appointed the Task Force members in January. He asked them to report back with recommendations to help facilitate the construction of more housing in Peterborough which is needed to meet the City’s Housing Target of 4,700 units by 2031. 

The recommendations cover three primary areas: speeding development, cutting building costs and fostering partnerships. 

Key proposals include: 

• Speeding up Development: Guaranteeing a one-year approval timeline for non-profit and multi-unit housing projects, establishing a dedicated team to fast-track priority developments, and simplifying requirements for housing approvals. 

• Cutting Building Costs: Adjusting municipal standards to reduce the cost of development, including re-evaluating requirements such as sidewalk placement and tree compensation fees. 

• Enhancing Partnerships and Advocacy: Encouraging partnerships with Indigenous, non-profit, and private sectors and advocating for federal and provincial support, particularly for affordable and Indigenous housing initiatives. 

Mayor Leal will present the Task Force's recommendations to the City Council at the General Committee meeting on Dec. 2.

The Task Force members are:

• Paul Bennett - Principal, Ashburnham Realty

• Chelsea Combot - Director of Policy, Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services

• Brian Fenton - Principal, Peterborough Homes

• Hans Jain – Principal, Atria Development

• Hope Lee - former CEO of Peterborough Housing Corporation

• Rebecca Schillemat – Executive Officer, Peterborough & the Kawarthas Home Builders Association

• Brad Smith – President and CEO, AON Inc.

• Susan Zambonin – CEO, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

City of Peterborough to Begin Construction Redevelopment of Bonnerworth Park In Coming Weeks

Redevelopment construction of Bonnerworth Park is expected to begin within the next couple of weeks, with completion anticipated by fall next year, announced by the City of Peterborough on Tuesday morning.

Aiden Finn performing a “kickflip” while going gap-to-gap from a higher level to a lower one. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Construction includes an expanded skateboard park, a new bike pump track and pickleball courts at Bonnerworth Park at Monaghan Road and McDonnel Street according to the City.

Preparations are expected on the same week of the announcement including removing the clay from the ball diamonds to be used at others in the City and putting up fencing around the construction site.

Unrelated to the construction, three unhealthy trees will be removed from the park this week.

The Bonnerworth Park project will include planting about 220 trees on the property, with about 63 per cent of the site being maintained as green space as stated by the City.

Bonnerworth Park is an active-use park with two baseball fields, four tennis courts, a skateboard park and a parking lot. The four existing tennis courts currently serve as multi-sport courts and operate as either four tennis courts or eight pickleball courts, depending on the user's preference.

The baseball fields at Bonnerworth will be removed and the City will invest in ball diamonds at other parks, including upgrading ball diamonds at three parks in 2024 and 2025. The tennis courts at Bonnerworth will be removed and new tennis courts will be built at Knights of Columbus Park as part of a larger plan to rejuvenate and enhance the recreation facilities at that park.

City Council has budgeted $4.4 million for the Bonnerworth Park project over two years.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

List of City Services On Remembrance Day 2024

On Monday, in observance of Remembrance Day, many City services and facilities will operate under holiday hours or will be closed.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 Peterborough will host the Remembrance Day Parade and Service at the Citizens' War Memorial in Confederation Square on Monday starting at 10 a.m.

City Hall

City Hall, including the Tax Office, Clerk’s Office and Building Services, will be closed on Monday. Online services are available at peterborough.ca.

Green Bin, garbage and yard waste

There will be no changes to curbside collection of Green Bins, garbage and yard waste.

The City/County Landfill at 1260 Bensfort Rd. will be open regular hours, 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Monday.

Public Works

Public Works can be reached at 705-745-1386. This line is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre 

The Wellness Centre will be open regular hours on Monday, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and all programs will run as scheduled. At 11 a.m., a moment of silence will be observed in the facility.

Arenas 

• Kinsmen Civic Centre and Healthy Planet Arena will be open for scheduled user groups

• The Recreation Facility Booking office will be closed on Monday

• Peterborough Memorial Centre and Grant Thornton Box Office will be closed on Monday. Event tickets are available for purchase online at memorialcentre.ca

Art Gallery of Peterborough

The Art Gallery of Peterborough will be closed on Monday. For information about gallery exhibitions and programs, visit agp.on.ca.

Peterborough Museum and Archives

The Peterborough Museum and Archives exhibitions and gift shop will be open from noon to 5 p.m. on Monday. Information about current exhibitions is available online at peterborough.ca/museum.  

Peterborough Public Library

The Peterborough Public Library will be closed on Monday. Regular hours resume on the following Tuesday. Information and digital resources are online at ptbolibrary.ca.

Provincial Offences Act office

The Provincial Offences office at 99 Simcoe St. will be closed on Monday. Fine payments can be made online at peterborough.ca/POA.

Social Services office

The Social Services office at 178 Charlotte St. will be closed on Monday.

Emergency shelter services remain open: call 705-926-0096 during weekends and holidays.

Municipal child care centres

City-operated child care centres Pearson Day Care and Peterborough Day Care will be closed on Monday.

Before and After School programs in schools will be open and operating normal hours on Monday.

Parking

The Parking Services office in the King Street parking garage will be closed on Monday.

Transit

Peterborough Transit will operate on a regular service schedule on Monday. Temporary detours may be in place on some routes during the rolling road closures between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. while the Remembrance Day parade is underway.

Visit peterborough.ca/transit or call 705-745-0525 for detailed schedules.

Peterborough Airport

The Airport's hours of operation are from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.