Recently, Lanark County celebrated the official placement of the Ian Edwards Memorial on the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail (OVRT), recognizing the remarkable legacy of volunteer Ian Edwards and his lasting impact on Lanark County's trail network.

Ian dedicated countless hours to ...improving and maintaining local trails, serving as a champion for outdoor recreation and an advocate for the snowmobile, ATV, and trail communities. From leading major infrastructure projects and organizing volunteer crews to securing funding for trail improvements, his contributions helped shape the trails enjoyed by residents and visitors today.

The naming of this trail section is a tribute to a volunteer whose passion, leadership, and generosity left a lasting mark on our community. His efforts exemplify the positive change that dedicated volunteers can make, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of trail users and trail builders.

Lanark County, with the Municipality of Mississippi Mills, is inviting residents, businesses, and visitors a preview of the historic Five Span Bridge in Pakenham on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

With construction progressing ahead of schedule, the community will have a rare ...opportunity to walk across the bridge before it reopens to vehicle traffic. The celebration will include brief remarks, a ceremonial cake cutting, refreshments, and opportunities to speak with members of the project team who helped restore one of Eastern Ontario's most recognized stone bridges.

A community drone photo is planned for approximately 2:15 p.m., offering residents a chance to be part of a memorable moment in the bridge's history.

As part of the celebration, attendees will also have the opportunity to take home a piece of original bridge stone from the restoration project in exchange for a donation to the Pakenham Public School kindergarten yard renovation project.

"The reopening of the Five Span Bridge marks the successful completion of an important heritage and infrastructure project," said Lanark County Warden Richard Kidd. "This event is an opportunity for Lanark County to thank the Pakenham community for its patience throughout construction and celebrate the fact that generations to come will be proud that Pakenham is home to the historic engineering marvel called the Five Span Bridge."

The Five Span Bridge has been a defining feature of Pakenham for more than a century. Following two years of restoration work, the project has preserved the bridge for future generations while maintaining its historic character.

Residents are encouraged to attend and help celebrate the return of this iconic community landmark.

Apply today!

Visit lanarkcounty.ca/betterhomeslanark for more info!