It’s official: The City of Montreal, recently ranked one of the best cities in the world, is planning to build two car free, pedestrian-only public squares in the heart of the city.
Imagine expanded sidewalks, decorative bollards, and lush greenery, all designed to create a more enjoyable experience for pedestrians—and to encourage public transit use over driving in the area.
While this isn’t the first car-free pedestrian-only project in Montreal, the response has been mixed—with some concerns about the proposal and requests to postpone the project until after the municipal election from downtown merchants.
Place McGill, the future new public square between Robert-Bourassa Boulevard and Mansfield Street, is being described as a must-see destination in the heart of Montreal.
Place Concordia, the second public square envisioned between Bishop and Guy streets, is being touted as an area to relax and an oasis of freshness.
During a press conference, Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante explained the creation of the public squares to fight climate change by having more green spots, to support communities, and to replace outdated underground infrastructure.
The new public squares, inspired by designs from other countries, also aims to calm vehicle traffic while allowing the street to remain accessible.
What streets in Montreal are pedestrian only?
Where are the new pedestrian-only squares on Sainte-Catherine Street?
The first, Place McGill, will stretch from Robert-Bourassa Boulevard to Mansfield Street, while the second, Place Concordia, will run from Bishop Street to Guy Street.
When will this project start?
While some of the work has already begun, the next phase on Sainte-Catherine Street West between Peel and Saint-Marc streets is set to start during the summer of 2025.
When will the project be finished?
According to Mayor Plante, the project may only be fully completed by 2030.
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