GREATER NAPANEE O N T A R I O BUILDING STRATEGIC CAPACITY IN EASTERN ONTARIO WWW.GREATERNAPANEE.COM
BUILDING STRATE IN EASTERN ONTA GREATER NAPANEE, ON AT A GLANCE TOWN OF GREATER NAPANEE WHAT: A historic pre-confederation municipality with a balanced approach to development WHERE: Eastern Ontario WEBSITE: www.greaternapanee.com 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04
EGIC CAPACITY ARIO HOW A HISTORIC TOWN IS LEVERAGING INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS TO CREATE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES Where historic charm meets strategic growth planning, Greater Napanee represents a model for balanced community development in Ontario. Incorporated in 1854 and situated on the shores of the Bay of Quinte, this pre-confederation municipality has cultivated a distinctive identity that honors its past while actively building for the future. 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04
“Greater Napanee is where community spirit thrives. Our residents proudly showcase their heritage through various projects and events, while embracing the harmonious blend of our quaint, historic downtown and the surrounding agricultural community that significantly shapes our identity,” Mayor Terry Richardson asserts. At its core, Greater Napanee represents a carefully orchestrated balance between urban and rural living, between preserving history and pursuing innovation, between work and personal life.The revitalized Town Hall and weekly farmers’ market anchor a downtown district that serves as a commercial hub and cultural center, while surrounding agricultural lands maintain the area’s connection to its roots. “We’ve created an ideal place to live, work, play, and retire. Our unique blend of agriculture, industrial businesses, and commercial outlets works together to provide balanced opportunities for residents and neighbors,” Mayor Terry Richardson relays. This collaborative approach has positioned Greater Napanee as a noteworthy example of how rural Ontario communities can evolve without sacrificing their essential character. ECONOMIC LANDSCAPE, FROM GLOBAL TO LOCAL Greater Napanee has cultivated an economic ecosystem where international corporations and small businesses operate side by side, creating a resilient local economy that stands out in Eastern Ontario. Goodyear Canada anchors the industrial sector as the town’s largest employer with nearly 1,000 workers producing tires that ship to markets worldwide. “We’ve established a good mixture of large and small businesses. Our deliberate efforts have made Greater Napanee welcoming to investment, with significant steps taken to ensure we’re prepared for growth,” added Mayor Richardson The town’s industrial strategy recently bore fruit with Goodyear’s decision to nearly double its facility size with a 500,000-square-foot expansion. This $500 million investment positions Greater Napanee as a key player in Canada’s transition to electric vehicles, 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04 GREATER NAPANEE, ON
aligning with national automotive industry shifts toward sustainable transportation technologies. Access to substantial electrical power, fiber optic networks, expanded water and sewer capacity, and strategic transportation links to Ontario’s major markets create compelling advantages for businesses choosing to establish or expand operations in the area.The town’s location along Highway 401 puts it within two hours of both Toronto and Ottawa, three hours from Montreal, and just 45 minutes from the U.S. border crossing. “We’ve recently launched an Industrial Tax Incremental Grant program to further support manufacturing and industrial growth. Our strategic investments in infrastructure, combined with access to 335,000 people within a 30-minute commute, create ideal conditions for industry to thrive,” Michael Nobes, General Manager of Growth & Infrastructure Services conveys. The town’s economic development efforts also include thoughtful partnerships with existing operations such as supporting Atura Power’s expansion plans to add 400MW of electricity generation and 250MW of battery storage capacity, strengthening the region’s energy infrastructure while creating additional jobs. INFRASTRUCTURE FOR THE FUTURE Greater Napanee has strategically invested in core infrastructure systems that position it for sustainable growth beyond what many comparable Ontario municipalities can offer.The town’s forward-thinking approach to water, energy, and digital connectivity creates a foundation for residential expansion and industrial development. “We’ve secured nearly $50 million in government investment for a new, state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant.This facility provides much-needed servicing capacity for up to 4,000 new homes and supports industrial growth, addressing one of the major constraints many communities face,” Nobes says. Water security represents a particular advantage for Greater Napanee. The town’s water treatment plant currently operates at less than 50% capacity, 4 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04
Supporting the local community. Keeping waste out of landfills. Providing good jobs. Investing in the area. We buy all scrap metal. From large bin loads to the old junk sitting in your garage.
www2.gerdau.com/metals-recycling
Gerdau is proud to celebrate 3 years in the Napanee, ON community. Discover why we’re the ideal scrap partner as we address common questions about working with us. 1. Why did Gerdau invest in Napanee, ON? A We chose this region to support our Whitby and Cambridge mills to increase recycled metal supply, ultimately boosting steel production and creating new jobs 2. Why choose a Gerdau scrapyard? A Get paid the true value of your scrap metal A We have a reputation for treating our suppliers fairly A Transparent scale weights ensure peace of mind A As a publicly traded company, we value long-term partnerships and providing the best experience A Our environmentally conscious practices ensure vehicles are depolluted and recycled responsibly A Our supplier portal allows you to track scale tickets and payments A As an end-user, we guarantee full material destruction 3. Why recycle your scrap metal? A Earn money while discarding unwanted items A Support the circular economy as steel is endlessly recyclable A Contribute to domestic production by recycling items locally in Canada A Reduce landfill waste and alleviate community burdens 4. What should you seek in a scrap partner? A Relationship-driven business approach A Transparent, flexible pricing A Detailed reporting and auditable shipment information A Fast turnaround for bin services and vehicle pickups 5. What are some myths about scrapyards? A I will get a flat tire 1. Our yards are kept clean by dedicated teams A Unfriendly staff 1. Customers rank our team as their top reason for returning A Complex drop-off process 1. We have streamlined the process with assistance provided at every step A Unfair pricing 1. We pay market rates and educate customers on maximizing value 2. What services does Gerdau offer? A Public drop off A Industrial and business bin services A Vehicle pickups 3. What materials are accepted at a Gerdau scrapyard? A Ferrous materials (containing iron) 1. Examples of recyclable steel products include water heaters, stoves, shelving, tools, and machinery A Nonferrous materials (does not contain iron) 1. Examples include copper, brass, aluminum, wire, or lead acid car batteries As a proud neighbor of the Napanee, ON community, Gerdau is committed to making recycling efficient, transparent, and impactful.
providing substantial room for community expansion. More significantly, the municipality draws raw water directly from Lake Ontario, ensuring virtually limitless potential for expansion of treated potable water as future needs arise, a critical asset in an era of increasing water scarcity concerns across North America. The town’s electrical infrastructure also represents a major competitive advantage. Its strategic position near major power sources and transmission lines provides access to substantial electrical capacity, particularly valuable for energy-intensive industrial operations. This capability has become increasingly important as manufacturing processes grow more energy-dependent and as Ontario’s overall power grid faces mounting demands. “Our fiber optic internet infrastructure has been expanded throughout the community.This provides ready access to new development seeking high throughput of internet capacity, essential for modern businesses and remote workers alike,” Nobes outlines. These infrastructure investments align with Ontario’s broader economic development strategies that emphasize the need for “investment-ready communities”with pre-built capacity to accommodate growth without delays. By proactively addressing these fundamental systems rather than reacting to 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04 GREATER NAPANEE, ON
BUILDING THE FUTURE together Quality Communities Across Ontario The BASH Developments Group Inc. is a privately held company with substantial land holdings which develops and operates an extensive cross-section of residential, retail, commercial, and income properties. With more than 8 years of experience building dynamic communities in Western and Eastern Ontario, The BASH Development Group Inc. has evolved into one of the province’s largest growing land developers. Future Projects Includes | Pickering Meadows (150 town homes) in Pickering, Bancroft Meadows (400 Homes) in Bancroft, Colborne Meadows (250 Homes) in Colborne, Bridge Street Meadows (1700 Homes) in Napanee Springside Meadows | An exceptional new subdivision offering consisting of 550 units in the Greater Napanee Area Learn More at BASHDEVELOPMENTS.COM
BASH DEVELOPMENTS; BUILDING COMMUNITIES WITH INNOVATION AND STYLE Now that the pandemic is firmly in our rearview mirror, a distinct housing shortage has emerged. The need for new homes does not just hinge on building new housing stock but also requires the construction of affordable homes across all demographics. Diversity in the types of houses needed is also on the minds of many developers. Helping to fill the housing gap while building homes that are unparalleled in their construction and design, Bash Developments has solidified its position as a leading Ontario-based developer that excels in building highly sought-after housing communities with a heart. Building with unmatched construction standards, focusing on sustainability, and infusing innovation in its designs, Bash Developments has cornered the market when it comes to creating communities that speak to what buyers want and represent the perfect place to call home. Basing its work on expert craftsmanship, the highest design standards, and always putting the customer first, Bash has also built a reputation across the Ontario region as the builder of choice. Focused on building great relationships with the communities that have opted to partner with Bash Developments, each housing community is carefully designed to reflect the municipality it is in. Choosing the best materials to reflect the character of the community Bash builds in while making sustainable building choices that help strengthen community partnerships remains a top priority for this leading developer. Bash Developments takes pride in working closely with all levels of government when it comes to a clear policy framework and ensuring its plans align with the needs of the municipality it builds. Each municipality has welcomed Bash Developments’ mix of low, medium, and high-rise buildings and has seen success with potential homeowners and families looking for a place to make their own. Always putting the customer first, focusing on key partnerships, and producing homes of the highest quality form the foundation on which Bash Developments rests its business model. By incorporating the latest innovations, and adhering to exacting design standards, Bash Developments continues to lead by example.
Our passion is people. Discover your career in long-term care with Omni Quality Living! Join our dedicated team and make a difference in every day! Visit our website to explore opportunities across locations in Ontario and New Brunswick at OmniQualityLiving.ca/careers immediate needs, Greater Napanee has created a compelling case for businesses and residents looking beyond the constraints of larger urban centers. HOUSING AND HEALTHCARE TO MEET COMMUNITY NEEDS Greater Napanee has situated itself as a solution provider for two of Ontario’s most pressing challenges: housing affordability and healthcare access. The municipality’s coordinated approach to these essential quality-of-life factors creates an attractive proposition for both current and prospective residents. “We’ve focused on ensuring significant land is available for development to ensure housing availability and choice for homebuyers.This has placed Greater Napanee as one of the more affordable housing markets in Ontario, where it’s still possible for young families and people new to the market to afford a home,” Mayor Richardson describes. The municipality has 1,600 shovel-ready residential units in various areas, with development plans that offer diverse housing options. These include urban and rural single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums at price points more accessible than in many neighboring regions. The Gibbard District Condominiums along the Napanee River showcase the town’s ability to create attractive housing in scenic locations. This housing strategy operates against the backdrop of Ontario’s ongoing housing crisis, where average home prices in many communities have far outpaced income growth. Greater Napanee’s ability to maintain relative affordability represents a significant competitive advantage in attracting workforce talent. Healthcare innovation is another community strength. “We’ve established a unique partnership with community health care providers that guarantees every resident access to Primary Health Care. This system is being emulated across the province as a model for addressing physician shortages,” Mayor Richardson states. 11 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04 GREATER NAPANEE, ON
The town supports a fully serviced hospital with newly expanded state-of-the-art MRI capabilities, while two new 128-bed long-term care facilities address the needs of an aging population.The Lennox & Addington General Hospital’s partnership with Queen’s University Medical Program has successfully retained medical graduates as community doctors. STRATEGIC LOCATION AND EDUCATIONAL ADVANTAGES Greater Napanee leverages its strategic geographical position and educational connections to create a competitive edge in business attraction and workforce development.“We’re positioned two hours from Toronto and Ottawa, three hours from Montreal, and just 45 minutes from the U.S.border crossing.This central location provides businesses with efficient access to major Canadian markets and international trade routes while avoiding the congestion and costs associated with larger metropolitan areas,” Nobes offers. This locational advantage becomes particularly significant when coupled with the town’s proximity to multiple higher education institutions. Greater Napanee sits within 30 minutes of 35,000 postsecondary students across four institutions: Queen’s University and Royal Military College in Kingston, and Loyalist College and St. Lawrence College in the surrounding region. “We have a direct talent pipeline with local postsecondary educational institutions. Queen’s University and Royal Military College support research and innovation, while Loyalist College and St. Lawrence College provides skilled trades training that bolsters our industrial workforce,” Nobes adds. The town’s own educational infrastructure includes four elementary schools and one secondary school, providing foundational education within the community. More specialized is the partnership between Lennox & Addington General Hospital and Queen’s University Medical Program, which creates a practical training environment for medical students. Greater Napanee’s position within this educational 12 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04
ecosystem addresses one of the most significant challenges facing rural and small-town Ontario: talent attraction and retention. By offering proximity to major educational institutions while maintaining its small-town affordability and quality of life, the town creates a compelling proposition for employers and skilled workers. LOOKING AHEAD: INFRASTRUCTURE PRIORITIES Despite Greater Napanee’s significant progress in building infrastructure capacity, town leadership recognizes that sustained growth requires continued investment and support from provincial and federal government partners.The municipality has identified specific areas where additional funding would generate the greatest impact for both community sustainability and economic development. “While we’re well-positioned with current and nearterm planned infrastructure, we need further funding from upper levels of government for infrastructure renewal projects in older areas of the municipality. This infrastructure is approaching the end of its useful life, and additional funding would position our municipality in a stable financial state to ensure these systems remain viable for community use and further growth,” Nobes outlines. This focus on renewing aging infrastructure aligns with challenges faced across Ontario, where many communities are grappling with deteriorating systems built during Canada’s post-war expansion. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities has identified an infrastructure deficit of more than $123 billion nationwide, with much of this concentrated in older water, sewer, and transportation systems. Transportation infrastructure represents another priority area for Greater Napanee and the County of Lennox & Addington. “We seek opportunities for funding of new higher-order roads within the municipality to accommodate the influx of growth in coming years. This, along with funding for repair, 13 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04 GREATER NAPANEE, ON
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Gerdau Metals Recycling www2.gerdau.com/metals-recycling Gerdau Metals Recycling operates 31 scrap yards and 4 shredders across North America, positioning itself as a key player in the circular economy. We specialize in processing ferrous and nonferrous materials, including everything from water heaters to aluminum items, transforming scrap steel into high-quality steel products. n Bash Developments www.bashdevelopments.com n Omni Quality Living www.omniqualityliving.ca n WM Canada www.wm.com WM (WM.com) is North America’s leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. n Atura Power www.aturapower.com Atura Power plays a vital role supplying and balancing Ontario’s electricity system. Our generating stations help meet peak demand to ensure Ontarians get energy when it’s needed most. We’re also developing important infrastructure in Napanee to meet the growing energy needs for a strong economy. replacement, and construction of new bridges, will be necessary to facilitate the movement of goods and people throughout the community and to other areas of the province,”Nobes describes. With these priorities, Greater Napanee is a compelling example of how rural Ontario communities can evolve toward sustainable growth. By balancing respect for heritage with strategic investments in infrastructure, housing, and economic development, the town has created a distinctive community that offers opportunity and quality of life, proving that smaller municipalities can thrive by thoughtfully leveraging their unique advantages. 14 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04
WWW.GREATERNAPANEE.COM WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM AS FEATURED IN BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE Greater Napanee ON
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