Lanark County seeks public input from residents on Transportation Master Plan update

Residents across Lanark County will have several opportunities over this summer to help shape the future of local transportation as the county hosts public consultations for an updated Transportation Master Plan.

County officials are inviting residents, business owners and community stakeholders to attend a series of public drop-in events and complete an online survey as part of a comprehensive review of transportation infrastructure, services and long-term planning needs.

According to a release issued by the Town of Carleton Place last week, the updated plan will help guide transportation investments and policy decisions for the next 25 years, addressing how residents and visitors move throughout the county by vehicle, bicycle, on foot or via other transportation options.

According to Lanark County Director of Public Works Sean Derouin, much has changed since the previous master plan was created in 2010. “Since then, growth, travel patterns, and infrastructure demands have evolved, requiring an updated long-term strategy,” he explained. “The new plan will guide investment, address challenges, and support safe, efficient, and equitable mobility for residents and visitors.”

Lanark County shared they have retained consulting firm Arcadis to conduct the study, which will examine transportation systems under county jurisdiction and identify future priorities based on population growth, travel patterns and changing infrastructure needs.

As part of the first phase of public engagement, Lanark County has scheduled three upcoming public information-sharing events where residents can learn more about the project, ask questions and provide feedback.

The sessions will take place on :

• Monday, June 15, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Conlon Farm Chalet, 125 Smith Dr., Perth.
• Tuesday, June 16, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Beckwith Recreation Complex, 1319 9th Line, Beckwith.
• Saturday, July 4, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Carleton Place Farmers’ Market, 7 Beckwith St., Carleton Place.

According to town officials, the July 4 session will also feature information about the proposed roundabout planned for the intersection of McNeely Avenue and Lake Avenue, which is scheduled to be constructed next summer.

Residents who are unable to attend one of the in-person sessions will still have an opportunity to participate through an online survey available from June 15 to July 12, 2026.

The study will focus on all modes of transportation, including walking, cycling, driving, transit and the movement of goods throughout the county.

According to the release, the updated Transportation Master Plan will:

• Assess existing transportation infrastructure and services.
• Identify transportation challenges and opportunities.
• Prioritize future improvements and investments.
• Develop a long-term, 25-year transportation strategy.
• Provide guidance for future capital planning and budgeting.
• Align with broader municipal initiatives, including Lanark County’s Official Plan and Climate Action Plan.

County officials say the goal is to create a transportation network that supports economic growth, improves safety and accessibility, and meets the evolving needs of communities. You can read more on the Lanark County website.