Listening to its citizens, Chelsea's municipal council has adopted a resolution mandating the administration to analyze the feasibility of developing an official water access ramp for motorized boats that complies with current regulations.
"The informal ramp does not comply with the Code de la route or the Environment Quality Act. It's not safe and compliant in its current form, so it's our duty to act responsibly," explains
Chelsea mayor Pierre Guénard.
In addition to the two launching ramps for non-motorized boats and the community wharf, which are scheduled for completion in 2026 once government approvals have been obtained, the municipality will be exploring possible scenarios for a ramp specifically for motorboats. The administration will present its analysis to the municipal council as part of the budget process for 2026. An online public consultation will follow with Chelsea residents.
From a regional perspective, the Municipality of Chelsea also intends to open a dialogue with neighbouring municipalities in the MRC des Collines-de-l'Outaouais on the issue of access to the Gatineau River for motorboats.
"The development of public access to the Gatineau River is one of Chelsea Municipal Council's priorities, which is why we are very proud of the project presented last month. It will enable all our taxpayers to enjoy this magnificent body of water. However, the implementation of our project must not be at the expense of the safety of our citizens, which remains an essential condition for its realization," concluded the mayor.
For more information on the community access to the river project, click here.
