Lanark Transportation celebrating 25 years of connecting rural residents with essential services
For 25 years, Lanark Transportation has been helping residents across Lanark County and Smiths Falls get where they need to go, and the organization is gearing up to celebrate the milestone later this month.
Since launching in 2001, LTA has provided transportation designed to help rural residents maintain access to important services, including medical appointments, food banks, therapy sessions and more. According to a release issued by the LTA last week, the organization’s services are supported through a combination of provincial Gas Tax funding, municipal grants, donations and its non-profit operating model, helping keep transportation affordable for riders.
The Lanark Transportation Association (LTA) will mark its 25th anniversary with an afternoon celebration on Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Beckwith Community Hall, located at 2022 Beckwith Park Lane in Carleton Place.
“Originally we started with two vehicles, one of which was wheelchair accessible,” Executive Director Marilyn Bird told Lanarkist. “Today we have 19 vehicles, five of which are wheelchair accessible.”
Bird said that the LTA’s services allows the most vulnerable members of the communities, including the disabled, low-income, and senior citizens, to get to medical and other life-enhancing appointments and services.
“We are also proud that due to the growth and financial stability of the service, we are able to offer a subsidy to assist with the cost of the fare to low-income individuals who are now covered by another social program,” she added.
Residents and supporters are invited to drop in, whether they’re longtime riders, new to Lanark Transportation, or simply interested in learning more about the service and its role in the community.
“This quarter-century milestone is significant to everyone involved,” said Bird. “Not only does it allow us to reflect on the impact we’ve been able to have on the community as a non-profit, but to also look towards the future, imagining how else we could better support our rural residents over the next 25 years.”
According to LTA officials, the celebration will include official remarks at 2 p.m., followed by a ceremonial cake cutting. Among those expected to attend are Member of Parliament (MPP) John Jordan, representatives from Lanark County and the Town of Smiths Falls, along with LTA board members, drivers, administrative staff and the public.
We are excited about what the future may hold. Because of our experience and expertise, we are well placed to operate a wider, “on-demand” transportation service if that ever became a possibility.
Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP in advance by emailing admin@lanarktransportation.com or calling 613-264-8256.