Camillien-Houde Exclus
Mont Royal Access Changes: Impact on Residents
Table of Contents
- Mont Royal Access Changes: Impact on Residents
- Mont Royal Park Redesign: A Critical Look at Camillien-Houde
- Montreal’s Transit Projects: Public Opinion and planning
- Montreal Transit and Mont Royal access: Your Questions Answered
- Public Opinion on Montreal transit Projects
- What transit projects are currently being developed in Montreal?
- How does public opinion impact transit project development in Montreal?
- What are the key public perceptions of the REM light rail project in Montreal?
- What are the key public perceptions of the BRT system in Montreal?
- What study highlighted the diverse perspectives on Montreal’s LRT (REM) and BRT projects, and how many people were involved?
- Mont royal Access Changes and Redesign
- What major change is happening regarding access to Mont Royal?
- Who will be most impacted by the closure of Camillien-Houde Road?
- Why is Camillien-Houde Road being closed to vehicle traffic?
- How many vehicles used Camillien-Houde and Remembrance Road daily?
- What tragedy served as a catalyst for changes to Mont Royal access?
- What alternative transportation options is the city exploring for Mont Royal access?
- OCPM Recommendations and Project details
- What was the primary recommendation of the OCPM (Office de consultation publique de montréal) regarding Camillien-Houde?
- Why is the city’s current plan for Camillien-Houde being contested?
- What are the key elements of the Montreal Park Redevelopment project, in dollar amount and in context?
- What are some unanswered questions and concerns regarding the Mont Royal redesign project?
- What is the city’s justification for the Camillien-Houde plan?
- Project Timeline
- Transit Project Summary
- Public Opinion on Montreal transit Projects
A journey around Mont Royal, starting from Plateau Mont-Royal and tracing along Parc, des Pins, Côte-des-Neiges, and Remembrance avenues, reveals the future reality for many Montrealers. This route simulates the detour “de l’Est” residents will face to access the mountain starting in 2027.
The confirmation is in: Camillien-Houde will be closed to all motorized traffic. cars and STM buses will no longer be permitted; only pedestrian and bicycle paths will remain.
The City of Montreal’s project is moving forward, with a consortium selected after a call for tenders issued just before christmas. This makes the change real and imminent.
this decision will substantially impact individuals with disabilities, seniors with reduced mobility, and families with young children, forcing them to reconsider their visits to the mountain’s summit.
For many, especially those wishing to visit the “east” side of the mountain, including the Camillien-Houde belvedere, such visits may become unachievable.
Personal stories from mont Royal
During a midday visit, Myriam St-Pierre and her father, Michel, were found admiring the view stretching to the Olympic stadium.They had driven from Montréal-Nord to enjoy a moment of respite while Myriam’s son received hospital treatments.
Myriam believes the closure of Camillien-Houde will create “une division de plus” between the east and west of the city.More critically, it will prevent her family from enjoying outings on that side of the mountain. “J’ai un enfant malade, je ne peux pas la monter à pied,” she explained.
The Issue of transit Traffic
Approximately 10,000 vehicles use Camillien-Houde and Remembrance Road daily, primarily as a shortcut to traverse the city from east to west or vice versa.
This “circulation de transit” has been a long-standing issue. the consensus is that cars occupy too much space in Mont Royal’s green space. The mountain is not intended to be a highway.
A major public consultation under mayor Jean Doré in 1992 concluded that access routes needed to be redesigned to “réduire le transit rapide” and “favoriser l’accès à pied, en transport en commun ou à bicyclette”.
Progress was slow until the tragic death of young cyclist Clément Ouimet, 18, in October 2017, who was struck by a tourist making an illegal U-turn on Camillien-Houde.
This tragedy acted as a catalyst.The newly elected administration of Valérie Plante launched a pilot project in 2018 to block passage in the middle of the mountain.
Future Implications
the pilot project led to the decision to permanently close Camillien-Houde to vehicular traffic, prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists. The city aims to enhance the natural surroundings and reduce the impact of cars on the park.
While the changes aim to improve the park experience for many, concerns remain about accessibility for those who rely on vehicles to reach the mountain’s attractions.
Choice Access Options
The city is exploring alternative transportation options to mitigate the impact of the closure, including enhanced public transit and shuttle services. These measures aim to ensure that Mont Royal remains accessible to all residents,regardless of their mobility.
The long-term success of this project will depend on how effectively these alternative options meet the needs of all Montrealers, ensuring that mont Royal remains a cherished destination for everyone.
Mont Royal Park Redesign: A Critical Look at Camillien-Houde
The future of Mont Royal Park is under scrutiny as Montreal embarks on a important redesign project. A key element of this plan involves changes to the Camillien-Houde axis,sparking debate and raising questions about the city’s approach.
OCPM’s Findings and recommendations
An extensive public consultation, involving over 13,000 citizens and organizations, was conducted by the Office de consultation publique de Montréal (OCPM) to assess the effectiveness of proposed measures. The OCPM’s evaluation was direct: the project faltered due to “a hasty planning with imprecise objectives communicated awkwardly and, afterward, an environment of major traffic congestion in the city.”
Following its assessment, the OCPM provided a series of recommendations. The primary suggestion was to “maintain traffic on the entire Camillien-Houde/Remembrance axis, while reviewing its layout to transform it into a lane that better integrates with the vocation of Mount royal Park and respects its natural heritage.”
The second proposal focused on redeveloping the route into a “pleasure path,” reducing its “oversized” dimensions.
Divergence from OCPM Recommendations
Despite repeated assurances from the administration that the OCPM’s conclusions would be respected, the announced plans in the summer of 2023 revealed a different approach. The new plan proposed that the sole access for cars and buses would be via Remembrance Road on the west side.
Details of the $91 million Mont Royal park redevelopment project were further outlined in a November call for tenders. This included the transformation of Camillien-Houde, a massive tree planting initiative, renovation of underground infrastructure, and the removal of parking spaces at the summit.
However, a statement within the 53-page technical specifications raised concerns.The city stated: “Following this consultation, the City is committed to fully responding to the recommendations of the OCPM as well as developing a vision of accessibility to Mount Royal Park.”
This claim is contested, as it appears to disregard the first two recommendations made by the OCPM.
Unanswered questions and Concerns
While the administration aims to leave a significant legacy by boosting biodiversity and enhancing safety for vulnerable users of the mountain, several questions remain unanswered.
Lack of Transparency
One key question is: “why not have presented to Montrealers the other scenarios considered for redeveloping Camillien-Houde?” A CIMA+ study, obtained by *The Gazette* in December 2023, outlined various options, such as sporadic closures of the route or its transformation into a one-way street. Access to this document required a formal request.
Financial Implications
The project’s cost coudl possibly increase by $15 million due to a lawsuit filed by the Mount Royal Cemetery, which has had a notarized access via Camillien-Houde as 1928.This dispute remains unresolved and could further burden taxpayers.
Accessibility and Congestion
Concerns also exist regarding the public transit service for those traveling from the east to the mountain. While the city suggests small electric shuttles might use the Camillien-Houde pedestrian path, this is not part of the current plans.
Additionally, there are worries that Remembrance Road, the only entry and exit point, could become chronically congested with STM buses, tourist coaches, and cars waiting at the Côte-des-Neiges traffic light.
The City’s Stance
The administration maintains that all options were considered before deciding on the Camillien-Houde plan.
They assert that its closure represents the “ultimate compromise,” addressing the majority of the OCPM’s recommendations while considering the route’s technical constraints.
Montreal’s Transit Projects: Public Opinion and planning
Montreal is currently navigating a complex landscape of transit development, where public opinion plays a crucial role in shaping major projects.From light rail transit (LRT) to bus rapid transit (BRT), each initiative faces scrutiny and varying degrees of support.
Public Opinion on Transit Projects
A recent study involving 3884 people highlighted the diverse perspectives on Montreal’s Light Rail Transit (LRT), known as REM, and Bus Rapid transit (BRT) projects. The LRT system garnered favor for its “extensive coverage and potential regional benefits.” However, it also faced criticism for its “top-down approach and its focus on wealthier suburban areas.”
In contrast,the BRT system was “commended for its governance and consultation,” suggesting a more inclusive planning process.
Montreal Approves Planning Contract
In related news, Montreal’s executive committee is set to approve a $12.8 million planning contract on Wednesday, marking an initial step toward Projet Montréal’s redesign of a major road. This redesign project is estimated to cost $89 million and has stirred controversy.
Challenges Ahead
significant challenges remain in gaining full public support for transit projects. As one source notes:
Elle aura fort à faire pour convaincre les milliers de Montréalais qui se sentent laissés pour compte, voire sacrifiés, par ce grand réaménagement.
This translates to: “It will have a lot to do to convince the thousands of Montrealers who feel left out, even sacrificed, by this major redevelopment.”
Further Reading
For more in-depth facts, consider reading an article from the Gazette (in English):
1. Lisez un article de la gazette (en anglais)
Key Takeaways
- Public opinion significantly impacts the trajectory of montreal’s major transit projects.
- The REM light rail project is favored for its reach but criticized for its planning approach.
- The BRT system is praised for its governance and community consultation.
- Montreal is investing in redesign projects,but faces the challenge of addressing concerns from residents who feel marginalized.
Montreal Transit and Mont Royal access: Your Questions Answered
This comprehensive Q&A explores the evolving landscape of transit projects in Montreal, with a particular focus on public opinion, planning strategies, and the recent changes affecting access to Mont Royal.
Public Opinion on Montreal transit Projects
What transit projects are currently being developed in Montreal?
Montreal is currently focused on developing both Light Rail Transit (LRT), specifically the Réseau express métropolitain (REM), and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems.
How does public opinion impact transit project development in Montreal?
Public opinion significantly shapes the trajectory of major transit projects in Montreal. Projects face scrutiny and varying degrees of support from the public,which can influence planning decisions and project implementation.
What are the key public perceptions of the REM light rail project in Montreal?
The REM light rail project is favored for its extensive coverage and potential regional benefits, but it faces criticism for its top-down approach and perceived focus on wealthier suburban areas.
What are the key public perceptions of the BRT system in Montreal?
The BRT system has been commended for its governance and community consultation, suggesting a more inclusive planning process compared to the REM.
What study highlighted the diverse perspectives on Montreal’s LRT (REM) and BRT projects, and how many people were involved?
A recent study involving 3884 people highlighted the diverse perspectives on Montreal’s LRT (REM) and BRT projects.
Mont royal Access Changes and Redesign
What major change is happening regarding access to Mont Royal?
Camillien-Houde Road will be closed to all motorized traffic starting in 2027. Only pedestrian and bicycle paths will be allowed.
Who will be most impacted by the closure of Camillien-Houde Road?
Individuals with disabilities, seniors with reduced mobility, and families with young children will be substantially impacted.
Why is Camillien-Houde Road being closed to vehicle traffic?
The main reason for closing Camillien-Houde to vehicular traffic is to reduce “transit traffic” and prioritize pedestrians and cyclists. The city aims to enhance the natural surroundings and reduce the impact of cars on the park.
How many vehicles used Camillien-Houde and Remembrance Road daily?
Approximately 10,000 vehicles used Camillien-Houde and Remembrance Road daily, primarily as a shortcut to traverse the city.
What tragedy served as a catalyst for changes to Mont Royal access?
The tragic death of young cyclist Clément Ouimet in October 2017, who was struck by a tourist making an illegal U-turn on Camillien-Houde, acted as a catalyst for change.
What alternative transportation options is the city exploring for Mont Royal access?
the city is exploring enhanced public transit and shuttle services to mitigate the impact of the camillien-Houde closure.
OCPM Recommendations and Project details
What was the primary recommendation of the OCPM (Office de consultation publique de montréal) regarding Camillien-Houde?
The OCPM’s primary suggestion was to maintain traffic on the entire Camillien-Houde/Remembrance axis while reviewing its layout to better integrate with Mount Royal Park’s vocation.
Why is the city’s current plan for Camillien-Houde being contested?
The current plan is being contested because it appears to disregard the frist two recommendations made by the OCPM,despite assurances that the OCPM’s conclusions would be respected.
What are the key elements of the Montreal Park Redevelopment project, in dollar amount and in context?
The $91 million Mont Royal Park redevelopment project includes the transformation of Camillien-Houde, a massive tree planting initiative, renovation of underground infrastructure, and the removal of parking spaces at the summit.
What are some unanswered questions and concerns regarding the Mont Royal redesign project?
Lack of Openness: why weren’t Montrealers presented with other scenarios considered for redeveloping Camillien-Houde?
Financial Implications: Could the project’s cost increase due to a lawsuit filed by the Mount Royal Cemetery?
* Accessibility and Congestion: Will Remembrance Road become chronically congested with buses and cars?
What is the city’s justification for the Camillien-Houde plan?
The governance maintains that all options were considered and that its closure represents the “ultimate compromise,” addressing the majority of the OCPM’s recommendations while considering the route’s technical constraints.
Project Timeline
- 2017: Death of Clément Ouimet, catalyzing access changes.
- 2018: Pilot project launched to block passage in the middle of the mountain.
- Summer 2023: Proclamation of the Camillien-houde closure plan.
- 2027: Camillien-Houde Road closes to motorized traffic.
Transit Project Summary
| Feature | REM (Light Rail Transit) | BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) | Mont Royal Park Redesign |
| ——————- | ——————————————————— | ——————————————————– | ————————————— |
| Public Perception | Favored for reach; criticized for top-down approach. | Praised for governance and community consultation. | Mixed; concerns over accessibility. |
| Key Benefit | Extensive coverage and potential regional benefits. | Inclusive planning process. | Prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists. |
| key Drawback | Perceived focus on wealthier suburban areas. | – | Impact on those with mobility issues. |
| Impact on Mont Royal | Limited Direct Impact | Limited Direct Impact | Changes to road access and parking. |
By addressing these questions, this guide aims to provide a clear and comprehensive overview of the complex issues surrounding transit projects and access changes in Montreal.