The District of Muskoka, Moose Deer Point First Nation, and the Township of Georgian Bay are working on a collaborative initiative to change the name of Twelve Mile Bay Road, the roadway connecting Moose Deer Point First Nation to Highway 400.
The renaming initiative is guided by the Muskoka Area Indigenous Leadership Table (MAILT), established in 2019 to strengthen Indigenous municipal relationships in Muskoka. It consists of representatives from local municipalities and First Nations organizations.
Over a three-month period, Moose Deer Point First Nation will consult with community members to gather and propose up to three potential new names for the road. A tri-council committee made up of elected officials from the District of Muskoka, Moose Deer Point First Nation, and the Township of Georgian Bay will review the proposed names and recommend one to Muskoka District council. Final approval will require a formal resolution from council.
This initiative marks the second road renaming project undertaken by the District of Muskoka in partnership with Indigenous communities. In 2023, Muskoka Road 38, which runs through Wahta Mohawk territory, was renamed Kanien’kehá:ka Iohatátie, meaning “Mohawk People Road.”
According to MAILT, the renaming of the road is an opportunity to spread awareness of Moose Deer Point First Nation’s history, language, and culture, increase understanding of Truth and Reconciliation and the Truth and Reconciliation’s Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, as well as strengthen the relationships between Indigenous and municipal governments.
While the road will receive a new name, it will retain its formal designation as Muskoka Road 12, consistent with other district roadways.
The District of Muskoka has also established a working group to guide the project and offer resources and support to the community. An official update on the project will be provided later this year.
For more information and updates, visit engagemuskoka.ca
