The City of Peterborough Invites Community Input on Proposed Pilot Windrow Program

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Residents are invited to provide input as planning begins for a proposed Pilot Windrow Program in the City of Peterborough, intended to help maintain access to driveways after municipal snow clearing on roads. 

photo courtesy of the city of peterborough.

On Feb. 2, City Council approved a motion for staff to investigate options for a Windrow Clearing Support Program, including possible windrow assistance for eligible seniors and people with disabilities.

A windrow is the ridge of snow left behind after municipal plows clear the roadway. The proposed pilot program would assist eligible participants by clearing the windrow at the end of residential driveways. The goal is to support safety, accessibility and aging at home for residents who may find windrows difficult to manage. 

If implemented, the pilot program could: 

  • Address windrow removal, not full driveway clearing 

  • Establish eligibility criteria through the program design process 

  • Consider a user fee to offset costs  

  • Operate with limited enrollment to test demand and service delivery 

Input gathered through the public survey will help determine demand, community priorities and how the service can be structured in a fair and practical way. 

The survey is now open online. For a paper copy of the survey, contact the City via email. The survey closes at 4 p.m. on April 10.

Following the feedback period, survey results will be reviewed to inform the development of detailed program options. 

These options will outline: 

  • Proposed eligibility criteria 

  • Service scope and limitations 

  • Fee structure 

  • Participant capacity 

  • Service standards, including response timing after plowing 

Findings and recommended program details will be presented to Council for consideration. If approved, registration is anticipated to open in Fall 2026, with the pilot operating during the 2026 to 2027 winter season. 

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PHOTOS: The Tiffany Show's International Women's Day Party

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Host of The Tiffany Show Tiffany Arcari hosted her third annual International Women’s Day Party on Sunday; celebrating local women, uplifting their stories and collecting menstrual products for the Period Promise initiative.

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City of Peterborough Commemorates Irish Heritage Week With Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall

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The City of Peterborough is getting green for the next seven days as it kicked off Irish Heritage Week with a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall on Monday morning.

Dignitaries and notaries helped kick off Irish Heritage Week, raising Ireland’s flag at city hall. pHOTO BY David Tuan Bui.

Members of the Peterborough Canadian Irish Club, Nine Ships and dignitaries were at the ceremony to kick off Irish Heritage Week, as declared by Mayor Jeff Leal for Peterborough.

This year is the 201st year that politician Peter Robinson administered the passage and settlement of Irish Catholic families into Scott’s Plains, now known as Peterborough.

“It's important that we remember our Irish heritage and we have the opportunity to do that every year,” said Brendan Moher of the Peterborough Canadian Irish Club. “It's important that we educate our children and educate others in the community that this community was built in many respects by the Irish in 1825 when they arrived with the Peterborough Robinson group. They've been building this community ever since (among with many other immigrants in the world and First Nations).”

@ptbo_canada The City of Peterborough raised Ireland’s flag to kick off Irish Heritage Week in Peterborough for 2026! 🇮🇪 #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #irishheritage ♬ Irish Jig Diddle Leprechaun Fiddle - Viral Sound Empire

Sunday is the 26th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, starting at City Hall and running through George Street until the Peterborough Memorial Centre. This year's grand marshall is Irish historical geographer Christy Roche.

Moher encourages everyone to attend this year’s parade, regardless of anyone’s background or heritage. He says the main takeaway is that everyone has a sense of community, whether they have Irish roots or want to be Irish for a day.

“It is a way for the community to come together of every economic strata and every ethnic background, up and down George Street,” explained Moher. “It's a way to come together as a community and realize what good things we have there.”

A 5K run along George Street has returned for this year’s parade. It will raise money for Right to Heal to help those with mental health and addiction issues. The run begins at 1:30 p.m., starting at Roger Neilson Way and turning around at McDonnel Street before completing the circuit at George Street north of Lansdowne Street.

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Public Information Centre Taking Place for Stage Two of Armour Road Traffic Operations Review

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Residents are invited to attend a Public Information Centre (PIC) for stage two of the Armour Road Traffic Operations Review Feb. 24.

file photo.

Stage two was conducted in 2025 and focused on Armour Road between Hunter Street and Parkhill Road. 

The PIC will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Peterborough Rugby Club (725 Armour Rd.) 

The session will be held in an informal, drop-in format. City staff will be available to share the research and findings from stage two of the review, and residents are encouraged to ask questions and give feedback on the information.   

Residents who are unable to attend in person can still request information and submit questions or comments by emailing the Senior Project Manager Graeme Pickett.

The Armour Road Traffic Operations Review was initiated in response to community traffic concerns along Armour Road between Nassau Mills Road and Hunter Street. There was also an identified need for improved pedestrian crossing opportunities to better connect neighbourhoods with the Rotary Greenway Trail, transit stops and nearby retail areas.  

The review examines several factors, including traffic control, vehicle speed and volume, road design and sightlines, pavement condition, historical collision data, pedestrian activity and crossing needs and the potential impacts of future development. 

Due to the length of the corridor and the amount of data required to complete the study, the review was divided into two stages: 

  • Stage One: Armour Road between Parkhill Road and Nassau Mills Road (completed in 2024) 

  • Stage Two: Armour Road between Parkhill Road and Hunter Street (completed in 2025) 

A report to Council summarizing the findings and analysis from the review is expected in the spring of 2026. 

For more information, visit the City of Peterborough’s website. 

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Residents Encouraged to Contribute to the City of Peterborough’s Corporate Accessibility Policy

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Residents are invited to provide input into the City of Peterborough’s Corporate Accessibility Policy update.  

file photo.

The City says the Corporate Accessibility Policy will help strengthen and standardize accessible service delivery across all City departments. By providing staff with consistent guidance and improving procedural access to City services, the policy promotes equity, inclusion and customer-focused service. 

The update ensures the City continues to meet current accessibility legislation, adopts modern best practices and applies accessibility principles consistently across all City programs, services and operations. 

Residents can review the proposed policy and share their thoughts through the Connect Peterborough page. The draft policy can be viewed under the “documents” section on the webpage. Comments can be submitted directly through the online portal. 

Any feedback received will be used to inform the final policy and revise language where necessary. All comments will be reviewed by the Program Manager of Accessibility Standards and Integration, as well as the Accessibility Advisory Committee, before the policy is presented to City Council for final review. 

The public comment period will remain active until Feb. 27. 

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City of Peterborough Sends Condolences To Tumbler Ridge, B.C. Shooting That Left 10 Dead and 25 Injured

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After 10 people died and 25 were injured from the Tumbler Ridge, B.C school shooting that occurred on Tuesday, Mayor Jeff Leal has released a statement regarding the incident.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“The City of Peterborough is shocked and deeply saddened by yesterday’s horrific shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. We join with people across the country to extend condolences to all those who have lost loved ones as a result of this terrible violence. We will hold the victims, and all who grieve their loss, in our thoughts and prayers.”

Residents were locked down during the incident for approximately four hours.

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Celebrate The Winter Season With The City of Peterborough's Annual Snofest Event

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Embrace the chills, thrills and fun of the winter season during Snofest, the City of Peterborough’s annual winter celebration from Feb. 13 to 16.  

file photo.

“Snofest is a great way to embrace the cold by getting outside, staying active and having fun together,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Whether you’re swimming, skating, or enjoying one of the many free events happening throughout Family Day weekend, Snofest reminds us that the best way to stay warm is by sharing in the energy and spirit of our community.” 

A schedule of events can be found below:

Free Workshop 

Feb. 13 

Snofest begins with a workshop, “Getting the Most from your Healthcare Appointment,” at the McDonnel St. Community Centre (577 McDonnel St.) 10:30 a.m. to noon. This free workshop focuses on what to do before, during and after an appointment, and uses action planning to optimize people’s health. Registration is required and can be done online. The deadline to register for this event is Feb. 12 at noon.  

Hot Lunch and Social Hour 

Feb. 13 

A Snofest Hot Lunch and Social Hour for seniors begins at noon. The buffet lunch is free. Registration is required and can be done online. The deadline to register for this event is Feb. 12 at noon.  

Free Fun Swim 

Feb. 13 

A free fun swim takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) on Feb. 13 from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.  

Dinosaur Pop-Up 

Feb. 13 

A Dinosaur Pop-Up event takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join Peterborough Museum and Archives staff for dinosaur-themed crafts and to learn about the Carnivorous Dinosaurs exhibit on display at the Peterborough Museum and Archives. 

Snofest Square 

Feb. 14

Quaker Foods City Square will be transformed into Snofest Square from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Snofest Square will feature cozy fire pits and seating for visitors to relax and enjoy the festivities. Programming includes Snoga (snow yoga) with Summer Soul Yoga & Wellness from noon to 12:30 p.m. followed by a Children’s Chorus led by Shannon McCracken from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. Visitors can warm up with a Salsa Dancing session with Victoria of T-Elle Boutique from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. or enjoy free outdoor ice skating on the Square’s rink.

Snofest Story Time and Winter Crafts 

Feb. 14

The Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St.) is hosting Snofest Story Time and Winter Crafts from 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.  

Snofest Pancake Breakfast 

Feb. 15

The mayor’s annual Snofest Pancake Breakfast takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) from 7 a.m. to noon. All residents are invited to come out and enjoy a plate of warm pancakes and a cup of hot coffee, tea or hot chocolate.  

Snofest at the Art Gallery of Peterborough 

Feb. 15

The Art Gallery of Peterborough (250 Crescent St.) is hosting a Gallery Scavenger Hunt and a “Snofest Pete” collage activity. Visitors can also view current exhibitions at the Gallery. Events take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Drop In Sports 

Feb. 16

Visit the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) for free drop-in sport sessions. The schedule is as follows:  

  • Pickleball 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. 

  • Basketball 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 

  • Badminton noon to 2 p.m. 

Free Skating and Crafts at the Miskin Law Community Complex 

Feb. 16

Free skating takes place from 11 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. at the Miskin Law Community Complex (271 Lansdowne St. W.) Both the Russelle Toyota Pad and the Canadian Hockey Enterprises Pad will be available to skaters. Free drop-in winter crafting activities take place in the multipurpose room from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.  

For a complete list of events visit the website.

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BWXT Donates $5,000 to Rotary Club of Peterborough Towards Accessible Playground Project

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough’s Accessible Playground Project is $5,000 closer to its $1.5 million goal, as BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada (BWXT) donated $5,000 at its facility on Friday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The project was launched in August to be developed at Riverview Park & Zoo.

Upgrades for the playground include widened pathways between play areas for people using strollers and mobility devices, new surfaces throughout the playground to make getting around easier and relaxing, shady spaces with great sightlines to make it more comfortable for visitors and their caregivers.

@ptbo_canada The Rotary Club of Peterborough has been donated $5,000 towards their Accessible Playground Project courtesy of BWXT Peterborough! #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #donation ♬ Awards Epic - Celebrity

“The Riverview Park & Zoo has been welcoming generations of families in our community since 1933 and this project is a powerful example of what can be achieved when local businesses come together to support our community,” said Betty Halman-Plumley, Chair of the project steering committee.-Truly for the community by the community.”

"At BWXT, we truly value the strength of community. We're excited to support the Rotary Club of Peterborough with a donation for their Rotary Accessible Playground Project,” said Andy Collyer, Vice President, Fuel and Fuel Handling at BWXT Peterborough. “Giving back to the community where our employees live and work means a lot to us, and we're honoured to help create inclusive spaces that everyone can enjoy.”

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34th Annual Polar Plunge For Campbellford Memorial Hospital Exceeds Fundraising Goal

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Despite chilly temperatures, the spirit of generosity was unmistakably warm this weekend as the 34th annual Polar Plunge in support of the Campbellford Memorial Hospital raises $40,000.

photo courtesy of polar plunge campbellford hospital AUXILIARY, facebook.

This year’s Polar Plunge exceeded its fundraising goal, with all proceeds going towards supporting quality patient care at Campbellford Memorial Hospital.

“We cannot thank our community enough,” said representatives of the Auxiliary to the Campbellford Memorial Hospital. “From the volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, to the plungers who boldly took the leap, to the pledgers and spectators who showed their unwavering support; this event truly demonstrates what we can accomplish together for our hospital.”

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Celebrate Black History Month In The City of Peterborough

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Mayor Jeff Leal has proclaimed February as Black History Month, with various community-led events and programs to honour the history, achievements and contributions of Black Canadians.

photo courtesy of the city of peterborough, facebook.

“Black History Month provides an opportunity to remember, recognize and celebrate the contributions that Black Canadians have made to the City of Peterborough and all of Canada, creating an environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion every month,” Leal’s Proclamation states.  

Read the full Proclamation online.

The Community Race Relations Committee of Peterborough is hosting a Black History Month Showcase and Proclamation Event Feb. 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N.) 

The Peterborough Museum and Archives (300 Hunter St. E.) is offering colouring pages to visitors of all ages which encourage conversations around kindness, inclusion and standing up against racism. Visitors can also explore the Black History Month section in the children’s book nook to learn about the people, stories and moments that have shaped history.  

The Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St.) in partnership with the Afrocentric Awareness Network of Peterborough, is hosting a Black History Month Celebration on Feb. 15 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Visitors of all ages are welcome to come for an afternoon of Nigerian dance, Jamaican and African foods and an African-themed craft. Visitors can also drop by the library’s main branch or the branch at the Miskin Law Community Centre (271 Lansdowne St. W.) for “Who Am I? Mystery Portraits.” This month-long program invites visitors to explore portraits and profiles highlighting the accomplishments of Black Canadians.

An Afrocentric Story Time takes place Feb. 28 at 10:30 a.m. for children between the ages of six and 10.   

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