William Dale
Published online July 15, 2026, at www.pontiacjournal.com.
SHAWVILLE – Rural municipalities across the Outaouais are actively driving forward new projects to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. Shawville is no exception with a major modernization of Mill Dam Park, turning the central public space into an inclusive, multi-generational destination.
According to Normand Veillette, development officer for Loisir Sport Outaouais, the park now offers a highly diversified range of equipment tailored for the entire family.
A major focus of the recent upgrades was modernizing the park’s main welcome area to ensure complete accessibility. The space now features a new service building equipped with public restrooms, a large pergola, a bicycle rack, and paved parking and pathways designed for smooth mobility. A specialized swing designed for individuals with disabilities is also in place.
These accessibility features are complemented by a popular splash pad and numerous shaded zones, which Veillette notes helps families comfortably extend their playtime during hot summer days. Walking paths have been integrated to give visitors clear views of the creek, all surrounded by mature trees and greenery that help keep the park cool.
Shawville Mayor Bill McCleary confirmed the ongoing work at Mill Dam Park is funded through a provincial grant obtained last year through the Regions and Rurality Fund (FRR).
While exact financial figures were unavailable before press time, initial estimates from McCleary place the total project cost in the ballpark of $100,000. The grant covered roughly 80%, leaving Shawville responsible for the remaining 20%.
According to McCleary, the park’s scenic observation deck is now fully completed, with only final landscaping remaining on the immediate horizon. The final infrastructure items left on the checklist involve relocating existing electrical outlets and water taps to better accommodate campers using the site.
Both Veillette and McCleary confirmed that new picnic tables and charcoal BBQs are now in place near the camping zone, giving residents and visitors a dedicated space to picnic.
A water fountain has also been installed in the welcome area, though it was damaged in a recent act of vandalism.
To manage the park’s day-to-day operations and oversee the upgrades, Shawville has designated a specific staff member, Wesley Tubman, to coordinate the site.
