Montreal is exploring a bold initiative that could see part of Ville-Marie transform into a 24-hour entertainment district, as part of an ambitious city plan to revitalize downtown by 2030.
While the exact location for the nightlife zone is still in the works, the Latin Quarter has been identified as a possible choice. Known for its dense concentration of French-language institutions like the Université du Québec à Montréal, it could also be designated a "francophonie" neighbourhood.
The city has approved the extended operating hours of some bars and nightlife venues as part of a pilot project since 2022, allowing them to open for up to 36 hours in certain cases. The aim was to gauge the impact of all-night nightlife on the city and local community.
Another focus of the city's revitalization efforts includes the development of Îlot Voyageur and Émilie-Gamelin Park. Former bus station Îlot Voyageur has been vacant for around five years. In 2020, the City indicated plans to repurpose this site for an administrative centre and social and affordable housing. Progress might be underway, potentially bringing new life and function to the long-unused space.
The broader downtown revitalization strategy released on January 16, titled "Agir pour l’avenir du centre-ville de la métropole," outlines various strategies to enhance the appeal of downtown Montreal. It encompasses nine initiatives spread across three main priorities: strengthening neighborhood identities, creating new living spaces, and improving mobility and cleanliness.
Over the next decade, more than a billion dollars are earmarked by the City of Montreal for downtown redevelopment. That includes new residential neighbourhoods in former industrial areas along the St. Lawrence River and transforming parts of Old Montreal into pedestrian-priority zones, beginning this year.
They're part of a larger vision to rejuvenate Montreal's downtown, addressing challenges like office space occupancy, commercial vitality, social issues, and transportation.
Mayor Valérie Plante emphasized the importance of rethinking urban development and proposing concrete initiatives to bolster the area's resilience and attractiveness through all seasons.
Increased focus on downtown winter activities is also on the horizon, promising to add a new dimension to the city's appeal and livability, even in the colder months.
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