Haldimand County acquires Harrison Landing to operate as seasonal public use boat launch

In early 2025, Council directed staff to investigate the feasibility of purchasing marketed lands in Caledonia for the purpose of a new public boat launch. After extensive review, including an assessment of existing facility conditions and all financial implications related to its operation, Council decided to pursue the purchase of Harrison Landing. The sale was completed on January 30, 2026 and a late spring opening date is being planned.

Harrison Landing is located at 2305 Highway 54 West, Caledonia, adjacent to municipally-owned Lower LaFortune Park. The property rests on the north bank of the Grand River and is approximately 0.4 hectare (1 acre) in size. Developed as a passive park (greenspace), its proximity to the waterfront caters to boating enthusiasts with its boat launch and docking facilities.

Once open to the public, the new municipal boat launch will operate under a basic service model – similar to parks in Port Maitland, Cayuga (Bob Baigent Park) and Dunnville (Wingfield Park) – with regular grass cutting, tree/parking lot maintenance and amenities like portable washrooms, picnic tables and waste receptacles. There will be no fee required to use the launch.

The purchase of Harrison Landing is directly aligned with the priorities outlined in Haldimand’s 2025-2045 Strategic Plan and will increase public access to water recreation (Healthy Communities), strengthen Haldimand’s position as a destination for boating, fishing and eco-tourism (Economic Vitality), and give Haldimand the flexibility to integrate the boat ramp into longer-term recreational and infrastructure planning (Future Ready).

“Securing Harrison Landing is fantastic news for Caledonia and the broader community. It opens the water to everyone, strengthens opportunities for local tourism and small businesses, and ensures safe access to one of Haldimand’s greatest natural assets. I look forward to seeing the launch open this year and be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike once the weather finally warms,” said Haldimand County Mayor Shelley Ann Bentley.

“This new boat ramp is about protecting public access, improving safety, and making sure residents and visitors can enjoy what makes Haldimand special. I’m proud to see Council support an idea that will deliver real, long‑term benefits for our community,” said Haldimand County Ward 3 Councillor Dan Lawrence.

Details regarding the opening of the now municipally-owned Harrison Landing will be announced in early spring.