Lake of Bays Council was updated about the Revitalization Project in Baysville, in the December 10, 2024, meeting.

District of Muskoka’s Commissioner of Engineering and Public Works, James Steele, advised that meetings have been taken place between the District and Township staff for implementation of the Community Improvement Plan.

He said the goal is to make the entrance way off 117 an inviting place drivers want to stop at and travel through.

Plans for the area include beautifying the entrance, which will include a bridge, sidewalk, multipurpose trails, and walking paths leading into Baysville.

Staff will hire an engineering consultant and begin tender next year with the hopes of beginning the work next summer.

Steele advised that the project will be in partnership with the District utilizing the Transportation Reserve.

Mayor, Terry Glover, indicated that the District approached the Township as a pilot for the project, which is the first Township to do so.

He added that today is for information and that financial implications will incur to the Township budget moving forward.

He continued that the hope is to attract businesses and encourage residents to beautify their properties as well, and “take some pride in Baysville.”

Council members expressed excitement and concurred that it will also help the senior population get in and around the Township.

Councillor, Robert Lacroix, said, “It will actually make the Town look like a Town…and start the growth of this community.”

Steele said staff will have to implement the design phase quickly to be able to start this summer, and they will continue to update Council moving forward.

He added that there will be a geometric change to encourage drivers to slow down rather than pass by.

Councillor, Rick Brooks, suggested that it will be a positive change making the Township appear more friendly, “and hopefully get businesses to see it’s a place to be.”

He suggested that staff also work with the Ministry for help with the process to make 117 a direct route to Algonquin Park.