Montreal’s car-free evolution continues with Mount Royal announcement

In a significant move towards a more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly Montreal, the Camillien-Houde Way on Mount Royal is set to undergo redevelopment, transforming it into a car-free zone. This ambitious project aligns seamlessly with Montreal’s broader initiatives to reduce car dependency, notably in the Plateau neighborhood, reflecting the city’s commitment to combating climate change.

Camillien-Houde Way, the winding road up Montreal’s iconic Mount Royal, will soon be transformed into a lush pedestrian promenade, closed to most vehicles. Mayor Valérie Plante unveiled this ambitious vision to reclaim the road, with plans to add 18,000 square meters of green space to Mount Royal Park. Currently, 85% of the road’s 10,000 daily users employ it as a shortcut.

“We’re taking out the asphalt and we’re putting in trees,”said Mayor Plante emphasizing the city’s commitment to green infrastructure. The revamped path will feature a tree-lined footpath running alongside a parallel bike lane, ensuring accessibility for all.

A new building, akin to the chalet at the south lookout of the mountain, will grace the summit where Camillien-Houde meets Remembrance Road. Remembrance Road will remain accessible to cars, with additional parking at Beaver Lake and Smith House to facilitate access for families and those with reduced mobility.

Plante noted that the endeavor, projected for completion by 2029, is a response to the citizens’ demand for action on climate change and safety. The redesigned road aims to promote urban greenery, protect the environment, and ensure the safety of cyclists who frequently use Camillien-Houde.

Emergency vehicles will still be able to access the route, with Chief Richard Liebmann, from Montreal’s fire department, addressing concerns about response times. Liebmann stated that details of how emergency vehicles will share the road with cyclists are being worked out to ensure safety.

Construction on the Camillien-Houde redevelopment project is set to begin in 2025 and conclude in 2029. The estimated cost of the project is $90 million.

The Plateau’s Pedestrian Revolution

The transformation of Camillien-Houde Way into a car-free zone on Mount Royal and the pedestrian-friendly changes in the Plateau neighborhood mark significant milestones in Montreal’s journey towards a more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly cityscape. The moves show that Montreal continues to be one of North America’s most progressive, people-first districts.