Eastside Transportation Study Review Open Until August 21

The City of Peterborough has posted the Eastside Transportation Study for an official review period from July 20 to Aug. 21.

Photo by Keegan Beekers.

The review is required under the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process. City Council approved in principle the study recommendations on March 28.

The study assessed transportation infrastructure needs and priorities associated with development planned in the east portion of Peterborough. It will seek to provide recommendations for needed improvements to the roadway and active transportation network within and beyond the study area.

Generally, recommended improvements that were identified through the study include:

• Implementing the existing city-wide Transportation Master Plan, Cycling Master Plan and Transit Study recommendations

• Intersection modifications

• Improvements to Trent-Severn Waterway and Otonabee River crossings

• Road network expansion and realignment

The realignment of Ashburnham Drive between Maniece Avenue and Old Norwood Road/McFarlane Street and the replacement of the McFarlane Street bridge across the Trent-Severn Waterway were identified as priority projects according to a press release.

A more detailed study would be required for some of the recommended projects identified including budget approval for each project.

The study is available at connectptbo.ca/EastSideTS or can be viewed in hard copy at City Hall, 500 George St. N.

Comments can be sent to the study team by August 21:

• Robert Dunford, Transportation Planning Manager, City of Peterborough, 500 George St. N., Peterborough, Ontario K9H 3R9, 705-742-7777 ext. 1867, EastSideTS@peterborough.ca

• Vinod Soman, Transportation Senior Project Manager, City of Peterborough, 500 George St. N., Peterborough, Ontario K9H 3R9, 705-742-7777 ext. 1749, EastSideTS@peterborough.ca

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Voice of Business: Passenger Rail Service One Step Closer

Passenger rail service to Peterborough and beyond has cleared another stage toward construction.

Transport Canada announced on July 20 that the Request for Qualifications it issued back in April had concluded and three proponents were selected as eligible to bid on the upcoming Request for Proposals.

The project will link Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa, Montréal, Trois-Rivières, and Québec City with regular passenger rail service on dedicated passenger lines. It will require hundreds of kilometres of new track, refurbishment of old rail beds, new or improved crossings at every road it crosses, agreements with property owners, new stations, and a lot of planning. Creating a proposal for a project of this scale will require significant resources, which is why each of the three proponents are conglomerates made up of large construction and transportation industry companies.

The following groups have been invited to move to the Request for Proposals (RFP) stage:

• Cadence (CDPQ Infra, SNC-Lavalin, Systra Canada, Keolis Canada)

• Intercity Rail Developers (Intercity Development Partners, EllisDon Capital, Kilmer Transportation, First Rail Holdings, Jacobs, Hatch, CIMA+, First Group, RATP Dev Canada, Renfe Operadora)

• QConnexiON Rail Partners (Fengate, John Laing, Bechtel, WSP Canada, Deutsche Bahn)

Next up will be one of the most exciting phases in the project: Request for Proposals. Expected to launch this September, proponents will be expected to draw up their plan to meet the goals of VIA HFR and Transport Canada with a technically and commercially feasible solution that includes both a business and management plan. The proposals should answer a lot of the big questions about this project, including cost, where the lines will run, whether there will be high-speed sections, construction timelines, whether any additional towns/cities will get a stop, where the line will connect to Toronto, and whether the lines will twin alongside freight and include much-needed freight line refurbishment.

Additionally, the project will be required to meet reconciliation goals, as per Transport Canada:

“Advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is a priority for the Government of Canada, and this is why early engagement with Indigenous communities is already underway. As part of the RFQ process, respondents were required to demonstrate their capacity to work with the government to create mutually beneficial, socio-economic development opportunities for Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous reconciliation is critical to the success of the HFR project and will be integrated in all phases of the project.”

The government expects to evaluate the proposal submissions in the summer of 2024. Following that, a case will be made to our federal government to fund it. Considering the years and hundreds of millions of dollars that will have already been spent at that point, it should be a choice between different business models and levels of service. Ideally, the business plan will show a high return on investment. After all, VIA’s big push for this project and its first dedicated passenger tracks is that they will be able to provide a higher level of service, which should equate to a much higher return on investment and push the crown corporation toward profitability.

As well, this project promises to move us forward in fighting climate change. The proposals should lay out a case for the amount of emissions they will help us cut while improving intercity connectivity. The rail network should be electric (or at least almost all electric), providing people with sustainable and environmentally-friendly transportation.

We still have a long way to go before passenger trains will stop in Peterborough, but we have come a long way in the last few years. If you want to read up a bit more on the history of how we got here, check out our Voice of Business column from March 1.

Content provided by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.

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United Way Highlights Annual Accomplishments By Releasing 2022-2023 Community Impact Report

The United Way Peterborough & District announced its Community Impact Report entitled “UNITED. Together We Can…” which highlights their accomplishments, the funded agencies and community partners throughout the 2022-2023 season.

Jim Russell, United Way CEO during the presentation of the organization’s Community Impact Report. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Our work as a community relies on personal connection, which was undeniably impacted by the social distancing throughout the pandemic. Agencies pivoted and adapted to continue to support our community despite the added pressures resulting from the pandemic, said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. This past year marked the beginning of coming together again, and we are so proud of how our donors, agencies, volunteers and community have embraced the opportunity to come back stronger than before.”

The report showcased the outcomes that are made possible through United Way’s investment in 275 different programs and initiatives during the presentation.

“The Community Impact Report is a celebration of the achievements of our funded agencies as well as our United Way initiatives,” said Betsy Farrar, United Way manager of community impact. “The statistics captured in this report demonstrate the power of strategically investing in work to collectively have the strongest outcomes possible. Beyond each of the statistics listed in this report are meaningful, deep, life-changing impacts experienced by the 46,263 people that are helped through the work of United Way and its funded agencies.”

United Way investments were reported to support agencies to provide a range of different services, including:

• 164,936 nutritious meals, snacks, and food boxes

• 7,142 nights of safe shelter

• 35,148 mental health and social wellness activities and check-ins

• 27,113 in-home supports and care visits for isolated individuals

Representatives from some of the 20 partner agencies were at the presentation and highlighted working alongside United Way.

“Together, over the years our donors have contributed millions of dollars that we invest directly into the programs and initiatives like those captured in this report,” said Russell. “In addition, the work of the United Way is driven by over 50 volunteers that make investment decisions, coordinate events and enhance us as an organization as we strive towards our mission.”

The United Way is kicking off its 2023 campaign at the Healthy Planet Arena on Sept. 6.

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Peterborough Chamber Launches Inaugural Event, 'The Local Show' To Showcase the City Amenities

The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce is showcasing what the city has to offer in a new event called ‘The Local Show,” announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Chamber.

The free event is on Sept. 16 at Lansdowne Place. It will be an immersive experience for attendees to explore and support the diverse offerings of our community according to a press release.

The Chamber wants the Local Show to foster a strong sense of community by showcasing the exceptional talents, products and services available in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. The Local Show is providing a platform for participants to connect with potential customers, collaborate with fellow professionals, build lasting relationships and learn about hiring opportunities.

The show highlights the following:

Exhibition Area: The heart of the event, the exhibition area will feature an impressive showcase of local businesses and organizations. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of industries, including retail, hospitality, technology, arts and crafts, food and beverages, and much more. The entire mall will be transformed into the exhibition area.

Hiring Hub: This special event section brings together eight leading employment organizations, all dedicated to helping job seekers find their dream jobs in the local community. Whether attendees are actively searching for a new career path or simply exploring potential opportunities, the Hiring Hub offers a unique platform to meet and interact with recruiters, hiring managers, and industry professionals.

The Local Auction: The Local Show will feature the kick-off of an exciting auction that adds an element of anticipation and discovery to the event. The online auction will officially launch in person on the day of the event, offering attendees a unique opportunity to participate in live bidding. However, the excitement doesn't end there, as the auction will continue online for an additional two weeks, allowing a wider audience to join in on the experience.

“We are excited to host The Local Show, which celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of our local community," says Joel Wiebe, Chamber Vice President, government relations and communications. “This event will not only provide a fantastic opportunity for businesses to showcase their products and services but also create a memorable experience for attendees.”

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26-Year Old Man Facing Several Charges After Two Break and Enters

A 26-year-old Peterborough man has been given several charges after two break and enters on Monday.

On Monday morning, officers received a break-and-enter call from a Goodfellow Road and Clonsilla Avenue area business. A police investigation determined that $7,500 worth of items were taken.

Later that afternoon, officers received a second break-and-enter report to a Kingsway business.

An officer on general patrol located the man responsible for both break and enters later in the day. The suspect was found with possession of items from each business.

The man was arrested and charged with:

• Mischief - obstructs, interrupts or interferes with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property

• Break, Enter a place - commit indictable offence

• Theft Over $5000

• Fail to Comply with Probation Order

• Possession Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000

The accused is being held in custody and is appearing in court on Tuesday.

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Peterborough Man's Second-Prize Draw Wins Over $210,000 In LOTTO MAX

Peterborough’s Robert Parker is $212,849.20 richer after winning a LOTTO MAX second prize in the June 30 draw, announced on Tuesday morning.

LOTTO MAX players in Ontario have won over $7.6 billion since 2009, including 97 jackpot wins and 850 MAXMILLIONS prizes. Photo courtesy of OLG.

The 46-year-old truck driver said he enjoys playing LOTTO MAX and LOTTO 6/49.

“My dad used to buy tickets all the time,” said Parker. “I started playing in his honour.”

Parker checked his ticket at the store one morning and discovered his big win.

“It was indescribable,” he explained. “I felt calm when I scanned the ticket, and the cashier was thrilled for me!”

He texted his mother to ask if she was sitting down before sharing the surprising news over the phone.

“I called and said, ‘I’m pretty sure I won.’ She was more excited than I was,” said Parker

He plans to manage his finances with his winnings.

“It would take me a long time to save this money myself,” said Parker. “Life has been a roller coaster but this is going to make things easier. With a win like this, you’re able to put your feet up and take a breath.”

The winning ticket was purchased at Mister Convenience on Orpington Road in Peterborough.

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Rogers Cove and Beavermead Beaches To Remain Closed After Peterborough Public Health Confirms Presence of Blue-Green Algae

Rogers Cove and Beavermead beaches are remaining closed after Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae in the waters as reported on Monday afternoon.

File photo.

The closure is to protect the health and safety of the public and pets according to PPH.

The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) sampled the beach at Rogers Cove after the first reports of suspected blue-green algae at both Rogers Cove and Beavermead beaches on July 14. Last Friday, the MECP confirmed its presence at Rogers Cove.

“We’ve received confirmation that the algae observed at local beaches on July 14 is a harmful blue-green algae bloom,” said Julie Ingram, PPH manager of environmental health. “Elevated levels of toxins associated with blue-green algae have been detected and the beaches will remain temporarily closed.”

The MECP confirmed this sample had a total microcystin toxin amount of 169 µg/L, exceeding Health Canada’s recreational water limit of 10 µg/L on Monday. Additional samples are being collected from both beaches Monday with results anticipated by the end of this week as stated by the PPH.

The algae pose no immediate risk to Peterborough or Lakefield’s municipal drinking water supplies according to the PPH. Exposure to toxins such as drinking, swimming and bathing can cause illness and discomfort. Common symptoms include itchy, irritated eyes and skin, rash, headache, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Pets and farm animals that consume contaminated water may experience sickness or death. The risk to humans is primarily from drinking water that has been contaminated with toxins from a dense harmful algae bloom. Long-term consumption containing high levels of cyanobacterial toxins may cause neurological or liver problems.  

Residents downstream of Little Lake are encouraged by the PPH to monitor water for blue-green algae. Dense blooms can make the water look like a bluish-green pea soup or a shiny paint slick. Fresh blooms often smell like fresh-cut grass while older blooms can have a strong septic- or garbage-like odour. To report suspected blue-green algae bloom, contact the MECP Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060.  

If algae blooms are visible:  

• Do not use the water for drinking, food preparation, bathing, showering or swimming use. 

• Do not allow children, pets, or livestock to swim in or drink the water. 

• If skin contact does occur, wash with soap and water or rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove the algae. 

• Do not boil the water. Boiling will not remove the toxins and may release more of the toxin into the water. 

• Residents should avoid cooking with the water because food may absorb toxins from the water during cooking.

• Fishing is generally considered safe and there is a low risk to human health from eating fish caught during a peak blue-green algal bloom condition. 

• Be aware that home treatment systems for water may not remove toxins and may become clogged. 

• Do not treat the water with a disinfectant such as chlorine bleach. This action may break open algal cells and release toxins into the water.

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Local Pet Store Owner Get Spicy By Launching New Brand Of Hot Sauce

Reptile pet store owner Jordan Leal is going from selling geckos and iguanas to selling small-batch hot sauce by launching his brand ‘The Hub Sauce Co.’

Jordan Leal with his Otafukumami (Chili Crisp oil) and ghost pepper honey mustard with a Nigerian uromastyx from his House of Scales Business. Leal is celebrating the sixth-year anniversary of his House of Scales Business this Saturday. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Leal is the owner of ‘House of Scales’ in Brookdale Plaza which has been operating for the last six years.

He had the idea of getting into the hot sauce business after his oldest son crafted a barbecue sauce in school for Father’s Day. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, it opened up free time for Leal to explore a new business venture since it slowed down his business and had more downtime.

“We were basically made to pre-order everybody's orders,” explained Leal. “We'd come in the morning, pack everything and then it was sitting around waiting for people to pick up their order.”

He learned more about small-batch hot sauce businesses over social media groups during COVID-19 lockdowns which sparked his interest in starting his own business. He grows several of his own ingredients used in his product and sources locally for everything else.

He eventually launched his brand in February with his first product being his ‘Gold Medal Mustard,’ a ghost pepper honey mustard.

“It's probably one of the most rewarding things when you make that first sale,” explained Leal. “The first person I made my first sale to in the hot sauce company was the same person that was my first sale in this pet store.”

In addition to his mustard, he released a chilli crisp oil containing garlic crips called ‘Otafukumami’ with Asian-inspired flavours. He is nearing the development of a spicy peanut sauce and spicy barbecue sauce.

His hot sauce has already garnered international attention, selling his products in the United States, Europe and South Africa.

“Selling something that I've made start-to-finish is unbelievable,” said Leal. “It's a great feeling to have people happy about what they are eating.”

His products are available to order online at his website. They can be shipped or picked up at House of Scales on Fridays. Leal plans to make his product more widely available by having mom-and-pop shops carry it. Snack Attack Supermarket is scheduled to open a Lindsay location in the near future and Leal says they will carry it there.

He is also promoting his brand at upcoming farmers’ markets and festivals. He is attending the Hastings Waterfront Festival on Aug. 19 and Heating Up the Captial 3 in Ottawa on Sept. 16. for his hot sauce brand.

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U10 Peterborough Wolverines Advance to Provincial Football Championship After 70-25 Rout

The U10 Peterborough Wolverines of the Ontario Summer Football League have punched their ticket to a provincial championship game after routing the York Lions 70-25 at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Wolverines.

The win gives the Wolverines a date with the Mississauga Huskies U10 in the finals of the Sandy Ruckstuhl Memorial Cup (the name of the AA U10 playoffs). The finals take place at the Western Alumni Stadium in London this Sunday.

Both teams have played each other twice during the regular season, splitting the series 1-1 with the home team as the victor in both games. Peterborough’s home opener resulted in a 40-24 win on May 27. The Huskies got revenge with a 36-22 win on June 17. The championship is a rubber match for the teams as their only loss (in the regular season and playoffs) have come off each other.

Peterborough had a 5-1 record during the regular season and is 2-0 in the playoffs. Their opening postseason game against the Guelph Jr. Gryphons U10 yielded their second shutout of the season in a 40-0 win on July 15. They followed up their perfect performance by beating the York Lions on Saturday to make the championship.

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