Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Construction is underway on the largest water and wastewater project in Carleton Place’s history, a multi-year upgrade designed to support rapid population growth and future housing development.
The town has launched expansions at both its water treatment plant and wastewater treatment plant, following years of planning with engineering firm Stantec. The company, which developed the community’s master plan and designed the upgrades, will provide construction services, contract administration and engineering support throughout the project.
The wastewater treatment plant will see average-day capacity rise from 7.9 million litres per day (MLD) to 10.6 MLD, with peak capacity increasing from 22 MLD to 42.5 MLD. The facility will be converted from conventional treatment to a membrane bioreactor system.
Upgrades at the water treatment plant will increase capacity from 12 MLD to 19.5 MLD. The expansion has been designed to fit within the existing urban site while improving access for operators.
Town officials say the combined work is essential to relieve existing operational constraints and prepare for the community’s projected growth—from 15,000 residents today to 25,000 within the next 20 years. The improvements will also help Carleton Place meet provincial housing supply targets.
“We’re honoured to support Carleton Place in this vital initiative,” said Pascal Pitre, project manager and managing leader for Stantec’s water group in Ottawa. “We bring the momentum and experience needed to manage complex infrastructure projects, helping communities grow sustainably while protecting public health and the environment.”
The project carries a construction value of about $133 million. ASCO Construction Ltd. was awarded the contract following a competitive tendering process. Work on both plants is expected to continue into early 2029.
