Chelsea's municipal council is pleased to announce the creation of three community accesses to the Gatineau River, a long-awaited project in the community. Preparatory work is already underway, while the process of obtaining certificates of authorization from the Ministère de l'Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs continues. The official opening of access is scheduled for spring 2026.
Public consultations have confirmed the public's desire for access to the river. The project calls for the development of sustainable and accessible recreational infrastructures, while respecting environmental standards and current regulations.
Access will consist of :
- A universally accessible community dock with a 125-meter open-water swimming corridor (in front of Farm Point Park);
- A launching ramp for non-motorized boats (in front of the Farm Point Community Centre);
- A launching ramp for non-motorized boats (at the end of Chemin Burnett).
"The Gatineau River is at the heart of our history and our quality of life. For the first time, the Municipality is introducing official access to the river, in an effort to democratize its use. The municipal council wishes to promote safe, equitable and environmentally-friendly access to this common asset. We are very proud to see this initiative come to reality," said Mayor Pierre Guénard.
In addition to water access, work is currently underway at the Farm Point Park service chalet to make it universally accessible and add washrooms and changing rooms.
To ensure the safety of the infrastructures, the Municipality will comply with current standards, in addition to collaborating with the Société de sauvetage du Québec. Finally, measures will be put in place to ensure harmonious cohabitation with local residents.
The project benefits from a $210,000 grant from the MRC des Collines-de-l'Outaouais.
