The Farm Point area was chosen as the first community access point to the river because of the infrastructure and parking already in place at the Community Centre and Farm Point Park. In addition, this location will allow users of the Voie Verte Chelsea to enjoy the river without disturbing the neighbourhood.

Feasibility study

In its 2024-2026 Triennial Capital Expenses Program, the Municipality has earmarked $100,000 to develop an initial access point to the river for the population.

The Société de sauvetage Québec was commissioned to carry out a study recommending the types of river access facilities that could be envisaged at the Farm Point and Burnett Road sites previously identified.

The report includes the following elements:

Detailed site descriptions;
Elements to be considered in the development of public access to the river;
Water quality analysis;
Information on required signage at potential bathing sites (safety rules, prohibitions, opening hours, behaviours to adopt, respect for the environment);
Information on lifeguarding and rescue planning;
Elements to consider when planning a swimming area at Farm Point;
Elements to consider for the development of a human-powered boat access.