Media Releases

The City of Pembroke will officially launch the Pembroke 200 campaign during a special ceremony on Wednesday, July 22, at 7 p.m. at Riverwalk Amphitheatre at Pembroke’s Waterfront Park.

The event will mark the official beginning of the community-wide campaign leading up to Pembroke's bicentennial celebrations in 2028. The evening will include remarks from local dignitaries and project leaders, followed by a ceremonial performance by the 2CMBG Pipes and Drums. Cake will be served, and displays featuring guidebooks and photographs from past anniversary celebrations will be available.

The launch also signals the next phase of the project. Following the formation of the Pembroke 200 Advisory Committee and its working groups, as well as the development of the project's vision and branding, the City will begin recruiting volunteers, community partners, sponsors, and participants to help shape events, legacy projects, and celebrations leading up to and throughout 2028 and beyond.

"Pembroke's bicentennial is an opportunity for our entire community to come together and create something truly memorable," said Mayor Ron Gervais. "This launch marks the beginning of a collaborative effort that will help shape how our community celebrates this historic milestone."
Members of the media are encouraged to attend the launch. The ceremony is also open to members of the public who wish to learn more about the project.

Those interested in learning more about Pembroke 200 or becoming involved as a volunteer, community partner, or sponsor are encouraged to contact pembroke200@pembroke.ca. More information and opportunities to participate will be shared as planning continues toward the 2028 celebrations.

The City of Pembroke is beginning preparations for its 200th anniversary in 2028, marking an important milestone in the community’s history and setting the stage for a year of celebration, reflection, and connection.

Following the success of Pembroke’s centennial celebrations in 1928 and sesquicentennial celebrations in 1978, the bicentennial will build on that legacy while looking ahead to the future of the community. Planning is now underway to develop a series of events, projects, and initiatives that will recognize Pembroke’s history, celebrate its people, and bring residents together.

Central to this work is a community-driven approach. A 200th Anniversary Advisory Committee has been established, supported by six working groups focused on heritage and history, legacy projects and beautification, events and festivals, community engagement and education, branding and promotion, and funding and partnerships. These groups are made up of community volunteers working alongside staff and members of Council to help guide the planning process and ensure the celebration reflects Pembroke as a whole.

While plans will continue to evolve, residents can expect a range of initiatives leading up to and throughout 2028. These include heritage projects such as a commemorative book and storytelling initiatives, improvements to public spaces and parks, and a full calendar of events. A major highlight will be a Homecoming Week celebration, bringing together residents past and present for a series of community events, performances, and gatherings.

“This is an opportunity to celebrate where we’ve come from and where we’re going,” said Mayor Ron Gervais. “Pembroke has a proud history, and this milestone will give us a chance to bring people together, recognize our shared experiences, and showcase everything that makes this community special.”

The City is encouraging former residents, friends and neighbours around the Ottawa Valley, and visitors to plan to return to Pembroke in 2028 to take part in the celebrations.

More details will be shared as planning continues. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and watch for updates as new initiatives and opportunities to get involved are announced in the coming months.

Sandbagging is a simple and effective way to reduce or prevent flood damage to your property. When installed correctly, sandbags can help divert water away from homes and protect vulnerable areas during rising water conditions.

What You’ll Need

• Sandbags (heavy-duty, woven bags)
• Sand (preferred) or soil if sand is unavailable
• Plastic sheeting (vapour barrier)
• Shovel and gloves

Filling Sandbags

• Fill bags only 1/2 to 2/3 full (approximately 35–40 lbs)
• Tie bags if they need to be transported; otherwise fold the top over
• Do not overfill, as this prevents proper sealing between bags

Safety Tips

• Wear gloves and closed-toe footwear
• Lift with your legs, not your back
• Avoid twisting while carrying bags
• Work in teams or use a brigade line to move bags efficiently

Where to Place Sandbags

• Build sandbag walls at least one metre away from your home where possible
• Avoid placing bags directly against foundation walls
• Use natural elevation on your property to your advantage

How to Build a Sandbag Wall

1. Prepare the area: Remove debris, snow, or ice
2. Dig a shallow trench: This helps prevent water from seeping underneath
3. Lay plastic sheeting: Extend it under and behind the wall
4. Place sandbags:
   • Lay the first row tightly in the trench
   • Stack bags in staggered rows (like bricks)
   • Ensure no gaps between bags
5. Build to proper size:
   • Wall should be wider than it is high (ideally 2–3 times wider)
6. Seal the wall:
   • Fold plastic over the completed wall and secure with additional bags

Important Notes

• Sandbag walls may still leak; be prepared to pump water from protected areas
• Floodwater may be contaminated—handle used sandbags with care
• Sandbags are not a permanent solution and should be disposed of properly after use

Sand and Sandbag Requests in Pembroke
If you require sand and bags for your property, please contact the City of Pembroke Operations Department at 613-735-6821 ext. 1409. Please provide your name, address, and the approximate number of bags required.

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.

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.