Robert Simpson Park Refresh

Arnprior’s waterfront area is considered one of the Town’s greatest assets. In 2021, the Town completed a Waterfront Master Plan that produced 65 recommendations over 8 key focus areas and 7 key directions outlining how the Town can better harness the potential of this asset and create a more desirable waterfront destination for the community.

Robert Simpson Park is the crown jewel of Arnprior’s waterfront. Situated on approximately 4 hectares with 460 meters of shoreline along both the Ottawa and Madawaska Rivers, this park is the hub for much of the Town’s major outdoor events and holds many fond memories of longtime residents and visitors.

Through the public engagement and analysis of the Waterfront Master Plan, 13 improvements were highlighted for Robert Simpson Park:

• Park-wide Accessibility Improvements
• Beach Expansion and Pier
• Beach Level Vehicle Access and Parking
• Pedestrian Ramp to Beach
• Boardwalk and Landscaping
• Gradual Timber Steps
• Additional Seating and Picnic Opportunities
• Playground and Splashpad Enhancements
• Change Facility
• Small Craft Rental
• Increase Parking Capacity
• Accessible Washrooms
• Urban Canopy Renewal

In July 2024, Stantec Consulting Ltd was awarded the contract for the Robert Simpson Park Refresh design. Through this process and extensive analysis, it was determine that further exploration is required to determine the suitable approach to shoreline modification. This process will take more time, however the project team wanted to ensure that the Robert Simpson Park Refresh Project remain on its 3-year trajectory and in July 2025, Council approved the refresh of the ‘Upper Park’ features and amenities to be completed in 2026. This portion of the project will include:

1. Paved pathways
2. Improved lighting
3. Washroom retrofit
4. Splashpad
5. Play Structures / Play Features for various ages
6. Accessible Pedestrian Ramp to Beach

The proposed budget for the refresh of the ‘Upper Park’ is $3.2M.

More information on the Waterfront Master Plan