Blue Mountains Landfill Expansion – What Residents Need to Know
The Situation
The Town of The Blue Mountains is facing a significant infrastructure decision as its landfill site on Grey Road 13 near Clarksburg approaches capacity limits.
According to the Town’s official project page, the Phase 1 landfill expansion completed in 2015 is nearing capacity. Phase 2 work is now required to build remaining cell capacity and ensure the community has adequate waste disposal options moving forward.
The Town received approval through an Environmental Screening process in 2013 to expand the site. The upcoming Phase 2 work will include reclamation of existing landfill area through a landfill mining process, which will prepare the area for a liner and leachate collection system. This infrastructure will protect the adjacent aquifer and sensitive creek environment.
What Phase 2 Involves
According to the Town’s official documentation, Phase 2 will provide approximately 50,000 cubic metres of new capacity. The work includes:
- Reclamation of existing landfill area
- Landfill mining to gain more space
- Installation of a liner system
- Leachate collection system to protect groundwater
Timeline and Budget
Staff Report OPS.26.002 was presented to Committee of the Whole on February 24, 2026, outlining updated cost estimates. According to the report, current market conditions have outpaced earlier budget projections.
The Town’s 2026 Proposed Budget includes $2.5 million allocated for the landfill expansion Phase 2, described as an investment that will address future capacity needs, improve environmental management and increase operational efficiency.
Why This Matters for Residents
The landfill serves all Town of The Blue Mountains residents for household waste disposal, recycling, yard waste and bulky items. Without expansion, the Town would need to explore alternatives such as shipping waste elsewhere or establishing a transfer station – both of which would require additional provincial approvals and potentially higher costs.
Learn More
Residents can review the Town’s official project updates and the 2026 Proposed Budget, which is available for public review and input.
