Media Releases

Water service across Pembroke and Laurentian Valley is now fully restored and running normally following a major watermain break in late November.

All repair work is complete and required water testing results confirmed the water meets Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks regulations. Pressures and flow in the water system are back to normal.

The City of Pembroke thanks all system users for their patience and cooperation over the course of this emergency repair.

Full water service across Pembroke and Laurentian Valley is expected Saturday, following repairs on the major watermain break from late November.

Extra repair work was needed when the condition of the pipe in the break area was inspected, which added a couple days to the project timeline.

Today, the hole at the break area will be filled in and the City will fill the line with water.

The City will also take water tests to meet Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks regulations with results expected back Friday.

On Saturday, the City will open all the valves and disconnect the temporary service at Miramichi Lodge and put the home back on full service.

As of Saturday evening, we expect all system users to be back on full, normal operations.

We continue to remind people to reduce water consumption wherever and whenever possible over the last few days of the repair project. This is important to ensure stable water supply for all system users, and to secure water availability for firefighting and for those vulnerable users, including the Pembroke Regional Hospital and seniors’ homes.

We understand people need to go about their daily lives. Reduced consumption can look like combining clothes to run fewer loads of laundry, having a quick shower over a bath, or avoiding non-essential activities such as washing your car.

The City of Pembroke thanks all system users for the efforts they’ve made to reduce consumption since the watermain break happened.

The water is safe to consume, and during this repair period, people may notice a reduction in water pressure or volume.

Future updates will be posted on the City’s website pembroke.ca and our Facebook and Instagram platforms.

Reducing water consumption in Pembroke and Laurentian Valley is especially important over the next three days as the City starts repairs of a major watermain break.

Tomlinson, the specialized contractor hired for the job, will start repair work of the large diameter trunk watermain Wednesday, November 26. For the smoothest start to the repairs, it is important the water system has enough stored water in both the water tower and the water storage reservoir.

We remind people to reduce water consumption wherever and whenever possible, especially over Monday and Tuesday as we prepare for Wednesday’s work. We understand people need to go about their daily lives. Reduced consumption can look like combining clothes to run fewer loads of laundry, having a quick shower over a bath, or avoiding non-essential activities such as washing your car.

The City of Pembroke thanks all system users for the efforts they’ve made to reduce consumption since late last week when the watermain break happened.

The water is safe to consume, and during this repair period, people may notice a reduction in water pressure or volume.

Future updates will be posted on the City’s website pembroke.ca and our Facebook and Instagram platforms.

As of 9:26 p.m. this evening, through the outstanding efforts of the City of Pembroke’s Water Distribution staff, in coordination with Water Treatment Plant staff, and additional outside resources, the City has restored normal water service to all directly-affected residences impacted by the large diameter trunk watermain break.

All water services users have been put back online, except for Miramichi Lodge. Miramichi has been provided with non-potable water for use such as washroom facilities and has had fire protection supply secured with the help of outside contractors. Potable, consumable water is being supplied by the City to Miramichi Lodge through outside, City-contracted supply.

Contracted services are being scheduled and materials have been procured for the watermain break repair. The repair requires a specific specialist contract due to the specific nature of the pipe material and installation methods, and its complicated nature. The repair is anticipated within the next two weeks.

The City will be working with the contractor to make repairs as quickly as possible.

There still is a need for water use reduction wherever possible. Until the break is fixed, the supply to the City’s storage facilities and the water users is restricted. It is necessary to reduce water use as much as and where possible, to secure water availability for fire fighting capability and for those vulnerable users, including the Pembroke Regional Hospital and seniors’ homes.

The City asks all users to reduce water usage wherever possible, until further notice to protect the water supply. The water is safe to consume.

During this time, people may notice a reduction in water pressure or volume.

Future updates will be posted on the City’s website pembroke.ca and our Facebook and Instagram platforms.

We appreciate this disruption can be inconvenient and stressful, and we greatly thank you for your cooperation during this time.

Overnight Thursday, November 20, the City of Pembroke experienced a major watermain break on a large diameter trunk watermain within Riverside Park between Riverside Drive and Trafalgar Road that feeds the distribution system.

Due to this break, properties between Trafalgar Road and 786 Pembroke St. W., on Pembroke Street West between George and Wilfred streets, and Miramichi Lodge were directly affected.

Water has been restored to the properties between George and Wilfred streets. Work is underway to restore water to the remaining properties except Miramichi Lodge by midnight. Temporary non-potable and fire suppression water service is expected to be up and running at Miramichi Lodge by this evening. The City will provide potable water to the home for the duration of the repair, which is expected to take two weeks.

Prior to the water being restored, potable water was supplied to the affected properties.

All water system users are asked to reduce their water consumption wherever and whenever possible during this time, but we understand people need to go about their daily lives. Consumption reduction is important to ensure stable water supply for all system users, as well as adequate fire suppression. The water is safe to consume.

Due to the specialized material and size of the pipe, and the specialized contractors to do the work, the repair is anticipated to take two weeks to complete. The City has procured the materials and contacted the contractor.

During this time, people may notice a reduction in water pressure or volume.

The next update will be provided by Monday morning on the City’s website pembroke.ca and our Facebook and Instagram platforms.

We appreciate this disruption can be inconvenient and stressful, and we greatly thank you for your cooperation during this time.

Residents in Pembroke and Laurentian Valley are asked to reduce water usage for about the next two weeks due to a major watermain break.

Fewer than 30 properties in Pembroke are without water entirely, and these properties have been notified directly. The City is providing water to these properties.

All water system users are asked to reduce their water consumption wherever and whenever possible during this time, but understand people need to go about their daily lives. The water is safe to consume.

A specialized contractor has been hired and specialized materials have been procured for the repair. It is anticipated it will take two weeks to complete the repair and get the system fully back online due to the nature of the pipe and work needed for the repair.

During this time, people may notice a reduction in water pressure or volume.

An update will be provided early next week.

We thank you for your cooperation.

The City of Pembroke is asking all residents in Pembroke and Laurentian Valley to please reduce water usage effective immediately and until further notice due to emergency infrastructure repairs.

Examples of activities to avoid at this time include laundry and housecleaning. Water use for using the washroom and cooking within reason is ok.

The City of Pembroke is thrilled to celebrate the opening of the John Beevis Bulk Water and Septage Receiving Station.

This station will improve environmental protection by providing access to management and treatment of wastewater, as well as providing access to potable water for uses including maintenance activities and construction projects within our community. This facility can be accessed by contractors as well as the general public who require “bulk water” or require disposal of wastewater such as “septic pumping” through a licenced contractor. It is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“Not only will this facility result in better service to our community, it will result in additional revenue to the City of Pembroke due to additional sales from this more accessible facility,” said Mayor Ron Gervais at the opening celebrations today.

The station is named in memory of City of Pembroke employee, John Beevis. John was a dedicated member of the City’s team from 1991-2018, working in the Parks and Recreation Department as well as the Water Distribution & Wastewater Collection Section of the Operations Department. His tragic death in 2018 was felt deeply across the organization, as he was well known as a strong mentor for other employees and a committed worker, serving Pembroke residents with great respect and understanding.

“The sheer mention of John Beevis brings a warm smile to everyone, followed by a story of how John positively impacted their life,” said Curtis Mick, Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection Supervisor. “I am proud to say John was my friend and I know he would be overwhelmed with pride at this dedication ceremony for this facility.”

Mayor Gervais added, “John Beevis was a very valued member of our community and employee of the City of Pembroke before his untimely passing. This is a great way to continue to leave John’s mark on our community.”

For more information on the station, contact the Operations Department at 613-735-6821 ext. 1403.

The City of Pembroke is thrilled to announce the launch of Ottawa River Transit, an innovative on-demand transit service, to enhance connectivity and convenience for residents.

Commencing operations on August 5, 2025, Ottawa River Transit (OTRC) represents a new era in public transportation within the city.

In collaboration with Mobility Transportation Specialists (MTS), ORTC brings a modern and adaptable transit solution to the residents of Pembroke. MTS will be responsible for providing top-notch vehicles, professional drivers, and efficient customer service. MTS has partnered with Blaise Transit, who will provide an advanced transit technology platform for scheduling, managing bookings, and real-time ride tracking, enhancing overall user experience and service efficiency. Both Canadian companies, MTS and Blaise Transit are experienced in working together to launch new and innovative transit services in growing communities such as Pembroke.

“As City Council lead for Pembroke’s Ottawa River Transit project, it is both an honour and a source of pride to serve in this role,” says Deputy Mayor Brian Abdallah. “After years of dedicated, community-wide collaboration, I am thrilled to see this transformative three-year pilot project come to fruition.”

Mayor Ron Gervais adds, “This pilot project will provide the City the necessary information to determine if a community such as ours can offer a transit service in a sustainable and fiscally responsible way.”

The transit service will use three new Dodge ProMasters, equipped to accommodate up to eight passengers. Two of these vehicles will be in regular operation during peak service hours, with an additional unit on standby as a backup to ensure uninterrupted service.

As an initiative partly funded by City of Pembroke property taxes, ORTC will operate exclusively within city limits, offering an affordable fare of $5 per ride.

“Reliable and accessible transit is essential to student success,” says Algonquin College Pembroke Campus Dean Angela Rintoul. “The launch of Ottawa River Transit marks a significant step forward in connecting our students—and the broader community—to educational and employment opportunities. We’re excited to see this investment in mobility, inclusion, and regional growth take shape right here in Pembroke."

ORTC will debut with summer service hours as follows:

• Monday to Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Thursday and Friday: 7 am. to 10 p.m.
• Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

After Labour Day, ORTC will extend service until 10 p.m. from Monday to Friday. There will be no service on Sundays and statutory holidays.

Operating on a "stop-to-stop" model, ORTC will serve numerous virtual stops throughout the city. Passengers can anticipate an up-to five-minute walk to their designated stops, with exact details provided upon booking.

“The PBIA is thrilled to see the launch of the new on-demand transit service,” says Pembroke Business Improvement Area Executive Director Bethea Summers. “This initiative will make it easier for more people to shop and dine in our vibrant downtown. It will be especially beneficial for the many employees working in the downtown core, providing them with a convenient transportation option. Additionally, visitors staying at nearby hotels will now have an accessible and affordable way to experience all that downtown Pembroke has to offer.”

To use the ORTC service, you simply “book, ride, and go”. Riders can conveniently book a trip, up to seven days in advance, three ways:

• By smartphone with the Blaise Transit app: For the most interactive experience, riders are encouraged to use the Blaise Transit app, where they can also receive real-time updates and notifications.
• By computer through the Blaise web booking portal: Accessible via any computer for users who prefer web-based interactions.
• On the phone with the ORTC Customer Service: A dedicated line at 613-631-1766 is available for direct assistance in booking rides.

To best ensure a smooth ride, riders should be at their stop at least five minutes before the scheduled time, as the bus does not wait for late arrivals. Riders have the option to book their trip based on either departure or arrival time. If a rider has an appointment, book by arrival time to make sure on-time arrival at the destination.

"We congratulate the City of Pembroke for bringing this project to life,” says Sophie Leblanc, Blaise's Head of Business Development. “ORTC will help increase access to healthcare, education, jobs, social activities, and the like for all residents. Blaise Transit is proud to be the technology partner in this initiative, and we're excited to see it grow over the coming years."

ORTC is committed to excellence and values rider feedback. Riders are encouraged to rate their experience and leave valuable comments through the Blaise Transit app, helping to continually refine and enhance the service. In addition, the City is planning a formal six-month review and survey of residents to ensure this new service meets the community’s needs.

Organized as an initial three-year pilot project, the City of Pembroke invites all residents to experience the future of city transit with Ottawa River Transit. Join us in our mission to make public transportation more efficient, accessible, and user-friendly.