In 2006, residents and organizations were consulted on the key directions on recreation, sport and the outdoors for the next ten years. The Policy on Sports, Recreation and the Outdoors emerged from these discussions, linking the following five main themes: accessibility, volunteerism, equity, partnership and support.
The Policy's mission is to improve the quality of life of residents by making it easier for them to engage in sport, recreation and outdoor activities that are safe and equitably distributed throughout the region.
Close collaboration among municipal officials, organizations, associations and residents to ensure that everyone works together on making their living environment more dynamic.
This lively and dynamic nature has to be fostered by encouraging residents to take part in recreational, sport and outdoor activities and by supporting and encouraging initiatives by local players to introduce recreational and sport activities.
The infrastructure and green space network must be enriched so it will meet the full range of residents' needs. Steps must be taken to offer quality, safe and accessible sport and recreational activities, and encourage regular involvement in physical and community activities.
The fundamental role and social commitment of volunteers and community organizations are essential to recreation, sport and outdoor activities. Financial support will be provided to these organizations, as well as to groups that structure and encourage public participation in these activities.
Consultation between municipal units and local organizations is critical to developing partnerships that will optimize the services offered to the public.
There are extensive shorelines, waterways and pathways for pedestrians and cyclists right in the heart of Gatineau, all helping to enhance the quality of life of its residents. The city has its sights set on becoming an urban outdoor capital by developing and improving access to this magnificent natural heritage.
Over the next ten years, Gatineau will be offering more and more activities:
Four guiding principles will steer the activities related to the application of this policy:
These four guiding principles gave rise to the main axes of intervention that will shape the city's concrete actions over the next ten years.
Recognized for its quality of life, Gatineau is a city of 292,000 inhabitants. It is located on the north shore of the Ottawa River, and extends east and west of the Gatineau River.