Ottawa construction News staff writer
Carleton Place has started construction on the largest infrastructure project in its history, launching major upgrades to both its water and wastewater treatment plants to support long-term growth and housing development.
Stantec has been retained to provide construction services for the multi-year project, continuing a partnership that began with the Town’s comprehensive water and wastewater master plan. The firm completed detailed design work for both plant expansions and will now oversee contract administration and provide engineering support through construction.
ASCO Construction Ltd. was awarded the C$133-million construction contract following a competitive tender. Work on both facilities is expected to continue into early 2029.
Carleton Place’s population is projected to rise from about 15,000 to 25,000 residents over the next 20 years, prompting the Town to expand treatment capacity to meet future service and provincial housing-supply demands.
The wastewater treatment plant will see its average-day capacity increase from 7.9 million litres per day (MLD) to 10.6 MLD, with peak-hour capacity rising from 22 MLD to 42.5 MLD. The plant will be converted from a conventional treatment system to a membrane bioreactor facility to improve reliability and performance.
The water treatment plant will be expanded from 12 MLD to 19.5 MLD. The design integrates the new infrastructure within the existing urban site, improving operational access and making efficient use of limited space.
Stantec worked with Town staff and Ontario Clean Water Agency operators during design to balance cost, reliability, operability and long-term maintenance considerations.
“We’re honored to support Carleton Place in this vital initiative,” said Pascal Pitre, project manager and managing leader for Stantec’s water group in Ottawa. “As a full-service firm, we bring the momentum and experience needed to manage complex infrastructure projects, helping communities like Carleton Place grow sustainably while protecting public health and the environment.”
Town officials say the project will ensure essential water infrastructure keeps pace with current needs and future development, supporting both community growth and Ontario’s housing objectives.
