Bracebridge Council is laying the groundwork for transformative investments across the community with the latest edition of the Long Term Capital Plan, during last week’s general committee meeting. The plan, which outlines key infrastructure priorities through 2035, will directly inform the development of the 2026 Municipal Budget and Business Plan.
At the heart of the plan are major projects stemming from the Bracebridge Downtown Master Plan (DMP), formally adopted in 2021. Highlights include Memorial Park upgrades already underway, and substantial funding set aside for the Carnegie Library Reuse Transition — with $1.8 million in 2026 and $762,000 in 2027. This project aims to turn the historic building into a collaborative hub for municipal and community partners.
Should the renovation not proceed, staff estimate $700,000 would be required just to maintain the aging building, a figure based on 2018 assessments and rising construction costs. However, staff caution that this approach would leave the building vacant, hinder economic development, and delay the sale of 3 Ecclestone Drive, the former Chamber of Commerce location.
Other notable DMP projects include a $5.6 million overhaul of Manitoba Street’s streetscape (2029–2031), $8.7 million in improvements to the “Land Above the Falls” site (2031–2034), and youth park enhancements scheduled for 2034.
The Long Term Capital Plan also features the planned relocation of Fire Station 2, now estimated at $5.1 million due to increased construction and equipment costs. While construction is targeted for 2028–2029, staff note that timelines remain flexible and contingent on funding availability.
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The Town is broke. One of the most highly indebted towns in Ontario. And what do they want to do: blow even more money!!!! Council
and the bureaucracy is out of control. Project numbers are fanciful. See the Arena $125 million ($100 million plus interest) mess. $500,000 to replace the gazebo in Memorial Park. . And now $2.6 million for fancy digs for the Planning department and business facilities when the existing building is just fine. Remember all this is borrowed money. What is going on here and who is benefitting? The Town Council and bureaucrats need a refresh with the 2026 elections.