Laval reveals its future development ideas for Carré Laval
They argue that the project is plagued by financial and scheduling challenges and overlooks the city's rising debt since Mayor Boyer’s election.
On Tuesday, the City of Laval introduced its plans to develop Carré Laval—a low-carbon neighborhood situated in the Lagacé quarry area near Highway 15.
Covering nearly 22 hectares, the site is roughly equivalent to more than 30 football fields.
“The vision for Carré Laval is centered around enhancing quality of life, innovation, and sustainability.
On this exceptional site, in the heart of downtown, we aim to create a unique environment where the community can thrive in a healthy, dynamic, and forward-thinking setting,” stated Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer.
The project will offer a range of diversified and inclusive housing options, with a goal of constructing over 3,500 units.
The City of Laval envisions a mixed-use urban space where residential, commercial, green spaces, and state-of-the-art research facilities will coexist.
In 2020, Quebec's government allocated $10 million in funding for the decontamination and redevelopment of the site.
“For our government, revitalizing areas like Carré Laval is more than just an economic initiative. It represents an opportunity to create spaces where our community can unite and prosper.
With the support of many local stakeholders, we have a unique chance to rejuvenate our downtown and our region,” said Christopher Skeete, MNA for Sainte-Rose.
The Angus Development Corporation (SDA) will handle the initial phase of the construction.
According to the press release, SDA is tasked with building 1,000 affordable housing units and developing a facility dedicated to health, life sciences, commercial activities, and research.
“This facility will be designed to foster community gatherings and networking,” the press release noted.
Additionally, as part of the project's vision, the City of Laval is seeking public input on the future park at Carré Laval to ensure the new green space aligns with the community’s needs and desires.
An information session and open discussion will be held on September 24 at 7 p.m. at the Cabaret de l’Avenir at Collège Letendre.
“Ultimately, Carré Laval is set to become a central and defining hub for Laval residents and will attract people from all walks of life.
This project of international significance will usher Laval into a new era. We aim to create a truly vibrant neighborhood,” Mayor Boyer declared.
Opposition Criticism of the Project
Action Laval Interim Leader Achille Cifelli and Saint-Bruno Municipal Councilor David De Cotis sharply criticized the Carré Laval project on Tuesday.
They argue that the project is plagued by financial and scheduling challenges and overlooks the city's rising debt since Mayor Boyer’s election.
“Once again, the mayor has proposed an extravagant and poorly planned project with clear electoral motivations that are hard to conceal,” Cifelli said. “With no clear timetable or financial framework, and given the ongoing housing crisis, the project is projected to take at least 20 to 25 years to complete.”
Action Laval also criticized the project’s car-free design, noting that its location several kilometers from the nearest metro station and lack of bus services will create challenges for residents.
“The current administration has not engaged with civil society or the private sector. It is presenting a project without an impact study, and the haphazard funding raises concerns about the future, especially when immediate housing needs are pressing,” De Cotis added.
