The District of Muskoka has approved the go ahead for Tatham Engineering and Public Works to conduct an Environmental Assessment (EA) on Ferndale Road at the Muskoka Lakes Golf Club that could lead to a realignment to the road.

This is due to concern over the safety of drivers and pedestrians being hit with golf balls, as the road runs through the Port Carling golf course.

Councillor Frank Jaglowitz is concerned about the Muskoka Lakes Township not having an opportunity to provide feedback or approval about the assessment beforehand, indicating, “Further District support will be contingent on some level of support confirmed from Township of Muskoka Lakes.”

Phil Harding, responsible for moving the resolution, indicated that it’s been a long-standing issue in the neighbourhood, and that he didn’t know what the Muskoka Lakes Township could add, saying, “Until the Environmental Assessment proceeds, we don’t have enough information.”

Majority of Council concurred with Harding, with Brian Thompson adding, “What circumstances would the Township of Muskoka Lakes not approve an EA in this situation? There’s no resolution coming forward for the safety of motorists.”

The District supports the initiation of the assessment in order to determine realignment options for the road. The consensus is that at the end of the day, it’s still their decision regarding what happens to the road, regardless of what the recommendations are about realignment. And the costs will be incurred by the golf club.