Paddlers get two launches for canal
Paddlers will have easier access to the Rideau Canal with the opening of two new access points for canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, part of a $57-million infrastructure boost to re-energize and protect the historic waterway.
Tuesday morning’s announcement came from Minister of Environment and Climate Change Catherine McKenna, who arrived at the Patterson Creek launch site portaging her shiny red canoe along the canal. The Patterson Creek dock is one of two locations that is part of a year-long pilot project. The other launch is located at Clegg Street, and both will be open May 20 until Oct. 10. If the new initiative is a success, several others will be added along the canal next year based on community feedback.
“This pilot project will provide easier and safer access to the Rideau Canal for paddlers ... and I have to say personally I’m very excited because throwing your canoe over fences is not really all that easy,” said McKenna, who is responsible for Parks Canada, which maintains and operates the canal.
The $57 million in infrastructure funding will be used to rehabilitate and repair bridges, dams, locks, and historic masonry structures in communities along the canal.
A Parks Canada representative said it’s too soon to say whether there will be boat rental stations at the two launch sites. That would have to be addressed after safety and use have been assessed this season.
Hunter McGill, chairman of Friends of the Rideau, said he’s pleased the canal will be more accessible to vessels other than motor boats.
“It’s a wonderful canoeing waterway, but access has been a problem,” McGill said. “So having this kind of access is terrific, and we know that there are probably thousands of people in this area who’ve got canoes and kayaks and who want to get in the water.”
McKenna left the unveiling the same way she entered, in true Canadian style. She launched her canoe from the new dock and paddled downtown to work with a colleague and canoe enthusiasts in tow, including members of the Rideau Canoe Club and the Glebe Community Association.
“If (the pilot project) goes well then we may be able to have other access points, which will be really exciting,” McKenna said. “I’ve always said the Rideau Canal is not something we should just use in a short winter period. I know many people skate to work. Why don’t we (paddle) to work?”