Pilot Project – Farm Point Area

The Municipality is currently working on the implementation of a community access pilot project for the Gatineau River, which will be launched as of summer 2026 in the Farm Point area.

This pilot project aims to gradually improve access to the water, better manage river use, and respond more effectively to the needs of the population, while respecting the environmental, regulatory, and safety constraints specific to a riverfront setting.

IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER

The Farm Point project is a pilot project — a first step toward providing managed access to the Gatineau River in a realistic and gradual manner. Access to the river is expected to evolve over the coming years based on on-the-ground experience, observed use, public feedback, and available resources.

What you Need to Know About the Pilot Project (Summer 2026)

As of summer 2026, residents will be able to benefit from the following amenities:

A universally accessible municipal dock, including a 125-metre open-water swimming corridor, located in front of Farm Point Park.
The official designation of a non-motorized boat launch site in front of the Farm Point Community Centre.

Municipal Dock and Open-Water Swimming Corridor

What is an open-water swimming corridor?

An open-water swimming corridor is a minimally developed area, marked by buoys in a natural body of water and reserved for swimming over a defined distance. This type of swimming is intended for independent swimmers who have solid experience and the necessary skills to operate safely in a natural environment, without supervision.

Please note: An open-water swimming corridor is different from a swimming area.
Swimming areas are recreational spaces where people swim freely, often near the shoreline, used by a diverse public (children, families, etc.) and supervised by one or more lifeguards.

As part of the Farm Point pilot project, no supervised swimming area is planned.

Safey and information on site

To promote safe use and ensure a clear understanding of the facilities, clear signage will be installed to:

Specify the purpose of the open-water swimming corridor.
Remind swimmers of the code of conduct.
Indicate the safety rules to be followed.
Provide information on the natural risks associated with the river.

Work completed in 2025

Several preparatory actions have already been carried out in advance of the pilot project:

Renovation of the service chalet, including the addition of washrooms and change rooms.
Reconfiguration of the Farm Point Park parking area.
Submission and approval of all required authorizations from the relevant government authorities.
Design of development plans and purchase of a universally accessible municipal dock.
Opening of the safety gate.
Installation of a pedestrian crossing between the parking area and the municipal dock.
Extension of the 30 km/h speed zone in front of Farm Point Park.

Work planned of the pilot project launch (2026)

Installation of the dock and a 125-metre swimming corridor.
Installation of signage outlining permitted uses and boating safety regulations.
Official opening of water access.

Non-Motorized Boat Launch Ramp

Installation of barriers to allow the access ramp to be closed if required.
Planned installation of signage related to boating safety regulations.

After the Pilot Project: A Gradual, Evolving Approach

With the goal of gradually enhancing river access for various users — while consistently respecting environmental and regulatory standards — Municipal Council has mandated the administration to analyze potential medium- and long-term improvements.

Two projects are already underway or under review:

Non-motorized boat launch at the end of Chemin Burnett

Preparation of plans and specifications for the redevelopment of the Voie Verte and Chemin Burnett intersection, including parking – 2026.
Construction work – 2027.

Motorized boat launch – project under review

In response to citizen input, Chelsea Municipal Council has adopted a resolution mandating the administration to analyze the feasibility of developing an official access ramp for motorized boats, in compliance with applicable regulations, particularly with respect to road safety and environmental protection.

Updates will be shared as the project advances.