A policy on sports, recreation and the outdoors made to fit you

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.

• Policy on sports, recreation and the outdoors

The role of Ville de Gatineau

• Exercise leadership by getting its residents and partners involved and working together on recreational, sport and outdoor activities.
• Communicate to residents information on the activities offered to them, and work on developing strategies aimed at promoting the benefits of an active lifestyle.
• Manage resources by administering municipal funds and public property in a responsible, efficient and transparent way, and in the best interests of the population.

The axes of intervention

Organizing the living environments

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.

Developing infrastructures

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.

Support for organizations and volunteers

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.

Partnership: agreeing to act together

Consultation between municipal units and local organizations is critical to developing partnerships that will optimize the services offered to the public.

The outdoors in Gatineau

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.

It all rides on making the right choices

Over the next ten years, Gatineau will be offering more and more activities:

• for young people under 18 years of age, to help them acquire healthy lifestyles from a young age;
• at recreational and beginner levels;
• to encourage residents to practice sports on their own;
• so more people can participate; and
• to help foster excellence.

The key principles of the Policy on sports, recreation and the outdoors

Four guiding principles will steer the activities related to the application of this policy:

• The quality and diversity of the offer of municipal services
• Accessibility
• Safety
• Influence

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.