Petawawa is moving closer to expanding off-road vehicle (ORV) access in its urban areas after receiving strong support from residents. A recent online survey collected 700 responses, with 90 percent of participants in favour of expanding the designated ORV routes as part of Phase 3 of the Town’s Off-Road Vehicle By-law. Among those who responded, 89 percent of Petawawa residents supported the idea, including a majority of residents living in urban areas east of Highway 17.
Although there was wide support for expanding ORV access, the Town decided not to include off-road motorcycles or extreme terrain vehicles on municipal roads. Council made this decision after hearing feedback from residents and receiving advice from the Town’s insurance provider.
Risk management and safety were highlighted as key factors. The insurer recommended careful consideration of road conditions such as curves, hills, and traffic speeds before allowing ORVs. Town staff inspected the proposed urban roads and found no major issues. To further reduce risks, the Town may lower speed limits and add new signage. Public education, especially for residents unfamiliar with ORVs, will also be part of the strategy. The Town is considering working with the Renfrew County ATV Club to help raise awareness and promote safe riding.
Although there is limited data on exactly when ORVs are used in Petawawa, staff reviewed speed monitoring information from the Algonquin Trail in October 2024. It showed that Saturdays were the most popular days for riding, followed by Fridays and Sundays. Most riders used the trail between noon and 4 p.m.
Town staff have recommended allowing ORVs on several urban roads with raised curbs that link neighborhoods, parks, and local businesses to the Algonquin Trail. These include Albert Street, Canadian Forces Drive, Civic Centre Road, and others. In addition, staff proposed opening more roads east of Highway 17 such as Amy Lane, Murphy Road, and Victoria Street. However, a few roads like Industrial Avenue and some sections of Petawawa Boulevard are not being recommended due to safety and operational concerns.
Council will now decide whether to approve ORV use on the suggested roads, remove roads where concerns have been raised, and update the Town’s official by-law maps. Any new roads added in the future will be reviewed annually to see if they are suitable for ORVs. Access to private areas, such as Pinehurst Estates, will continue to be determined by property owners.
The Town has already spent $1,866.65 plus HST on signage for the current ORV routes. Any new signage costs will depend on the final list of roads approved by Council. The Town may also continue using the popular QR code system to help riders access updated route maps.
Council is expected to review the staff report and vote on the proposed changes at an upcoming meeting.
(Written by: Emma Butler)