Kawartha Lakes seeks community input on new wayfinding strategy

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Residents, business owners, and visitors are being invited to help shape a new Municipal and Tourism Wayfinding Strategy, a plan designed to make it easier for people to navigate the municipality and find key destinations.

The strategy will evaluate current signage, identify gaps, and establish a consistent, user-friendly approach across Kawartha Lakes. This involves everything from municipal and community entrance signs to directional signage for downtowns, cultural locations, parks, and major attractions.

“Wayfinding is about more than just signs,” said Mayor Doug Elmslie. “It’s about creating a welcoming experience which makes our communities easier to explore, supports local businesses, and reflects the character of Kawartha Lakes.”

Once completed, the strategy will be presented to Council for approval and potential implementation. Regulatory signs, street signs, and advertising signage are not part of this project.

Clear and consistent wayfinding helps visitors and residents feel confident while navigating the area. Improved signage can enhance tourism, support local businesses, and strengthen the sense of place for everyone who lives, works, or visits here.

“Sometimes I drive through Fenelon Falls or Woodville and miss the turn to the library or the park,” said, longtime resident, Carol Clark. “Better signs will make life easier for locals and visitors alike,” she continued.

Community input is central to this project. Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate in several ways. Public engagement sessions will take place on December 9th, at the Fenelon Falls Community Centre, from 6 to 8 p.m., December 10th, at City Hall in Lindsay, from 6 to 8 p.m., and December 11th, at Bethany United Church, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Online participation is also available. The survey will be open from December 1st to January 4th, at www.jumpinkawarthalakes/signstrategy. Participants can also follow project updates, share ideas, and stay informed, through the Jump In Kawartha Lakes project page.

“As someone who runs a small business, in Lindsay, I know how important it is for visitors to find us easily,” said, local shop owner, Raj Patel. “Being part of this process feels like we can really make a difference.”

Whether you’ve lived here for years, recently moved to the area, or are a frequent visitor, your feedback will directly influence the design and implementation of Kawartha Lakes’ wayfinding strategy. Together, the community can create a more connected, welcoming, and easy-to-navigate municipality.

For more information and to participate, visit the Jump In Kawartha Lakes project page, at www.jumpinkawarthalakes/signstrategy.