Ramara Council approves major wastewater infrastructure upgrade

Ramara, Ont. / March 10, 2026 – At its meeting on March 9, 2026, Ramara Council approved the next phase of a critical wastewater infrastructure upgrade that enhances the Township’s wastewater treatment system and supports long‑term environmental compliance.

“This project represents a major step forward in modernizing Ramara’s wastewater system,” said Mayor Basil Clarke. “By upgrading aging infrastructure and transitioning to a more reliable, year-round treatment method, we are strengthening the system and ensuring we continue to meet strict environmental and regulatory standards. This is an important investment in our community’s future and a significant milestone in building a more resilient, modern Ramara.”

The Wastewater Treatment Facility 202 (Bayshore Village) project on Barnstable Drive replaces end-of-life spray field infrastructure associated with lagoon treatment and transitions to a modern tile bed system (see project rendering). By moving to tile beds, Ramara is strengthening the system, improving reliability, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection.

Council authorized the tender award to Duivenvoorden Haulage Ltd. for construction of the tile bed system. The project represents a total investment of $24,146,270, including contingencies.

This project is supported by provincial funding through the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program Health and Safety Water Stream (HSWS), which helps municipalities upgrade critical water and wastewater infrastructure. Through this program, the Province is funding approximately 73 per cent of eligible project costs, representing approximately $17.6 million, with the Township responsible for approximately 27 per cent, or $6.5 million.

Provincial funding helps offset the cost of these required infrastructure upgrades, reducing the financial burden that would otherwise fall entirely on the Township’s water and wastewater system.

Council also authorized short-term borrowing of up to $16,650,000 to fund the project if required until grant payments are received.

With the project awarded, site work preparation will begin in the next few weeks, including limited tree removal and grubbing only where necessary to support construction while maintaining all protected areas. In the coming weeks, a new access road will be built to facilitate construction of the pumphouse and to begin importing material for the tile beds. 

It is anticipated six of the 11 tile beds will be completed by November 15, 2026, with the remaining by June 30, 2027. During 2026, the existing spray fields will continue to be used and depending on lagoon levels, spray capacity, and the commissioning timeline for the new beds, effluent hauling may be required to maintain compliance.

For more information on this project, view the Fact Sheet or visit ramara.ca/project202.

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Media Contact
Melissa Gowanlock
Manager of Communications & Community Experience
705-484-5374 ext. 322
mgowanlock@ramara.ca