Plans have been unveiled for Quartier Molson, a $2.5-billion project featuring 5,000 housing units on the abandoned brewery site.
We're talking about green spaces and parks, new restaurants, hotels, shopping and event spaces.
The developers, Montoni and Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ, plan to establish a mixed-use neighborhood, reserving 20% of the units for social housing.
While the project is still in its preliminary stages, construction is anticipated to begin in 2025.
What is the history of the Molson Brewery in Montreal?
Established in 1786 by John Molson, the Molson Brewery was North America's first brewery. Over the years, the Notre-Dame site expanded into a bustling industrial hub.
Today, the building stands unused, with demolition already underway in some sections following the relocation of Molson's brewing operations to Longueuil, Quebec.
When was the Molson Brewery in Montreal abandoned?
The Molson Brewery announced that it was moving its operations to Longueuil and leaving its Montreal complex behind in 2017.
What are the plans for the Molson Brewery development?
Here are more details about the development:
Public Green Spaces: Quartier Molson will feature interconnected green spaces that reconnect the district with the St. Lawrence River. Highlights include the 150,000 sq. ft. Sohmer Park, offering stunning river and bridge views and evoking 19th-century recreational heritage. The Craig Linear Park and shoreline walk will create vibrant corridors, integrating the area with surrounding districts while providing serene courtyards and retail-linked gardens.
Living Environment: the project will deliver nearly 5,000 residential units, prioritizing social, affordable, and family housing for an inclusive, sustainable mix in line with Montréal's housing policies.
Programming: the Îlot des Voltigeurs will anchor the area with offices, shops, restaurants, hotels, and event spaces. A tailored service offering will meet community needs while enhancing local tourism and economic vitality.
Urban Fabric: located near Beaudry and Papineau métro stations, the site will prioritize active mobility, public transit, and walkable, green urban pathways.
Views: protected vistas of the St. Lawrence and Mount Royal will be complemented by sleek building designs ensuring balanced heights, optimal sun exposure, and visual harmony. The site will mitigate nearby rail track impacts by raising the land and adding sound barriers.
Heritage: iconic elements like the Molson tower, chimney stack, clock, and lighted sign will be preserved as key landmarks, blending industrial heritage with modern design to honor the site’s legacy.
Sustainability: aiming for LEED and Zero-Carbon Building certification, the project incorporates advanced energy-efficient systems, setting a benchmark for resilient, green urban development.
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