A Witness to History Reclaims Its Splendor

Built between 1912 and 1914 according to the plans of architect Marius Dufresne, the old Maisonneuve Market is more than just a stone building; it is a symbol of the monumental ambition of the former City of Maisonneuve.

Today, the MHM borough confirms a massive $6M investment to ensure the longevity of this iconic structure.

The work will primarily focus on the restoration of the exterior envelope, masonry, and roofing, ensuring that this edifice moves through the next century without a hitch.

Technical and Administrative Project Details

This is a flagship project for the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough, focusing on three pillars: heritage, safety, and accessibility.

1. Scope of Work

The intervention targets heritage preservation, safety compliance, and universal accessibility:

• Envelope and Structure: Restoration of the canopy roofing and sealing of the original wooden windows.

• Internal Systems: Full replacement of the water main and fireproofing of non-compliant structures.

• Safety and Access: Upgrading lateral exits to code, adding a new exit staircase connecting the ground floor to the 2nd floor, and a complete modernization of the elevator.

• Layout: Reconfiguration of parts of the basement and ground floor to optimize spaces used by community organizations.

2. Proponents and Governance

• Project Owner: The Borough of Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve (City of Montreal).

• Institutional Partners: The City of Montreal (via its real estate asset maintenance programs).

• Historical Design: While current work is modern, it respects the original 1912 plans by Marius Dufresne.

• Project Management: Handled by MHM borough technical services.

3. Financing and Budget

• Total Allocated Budget: $6,000,000.

• Source of Funding: Majority drawn from borough budget envelopes dedicated to heritage protection and the Ten-Year Capital Works Program (PDI).

• Financial Goal: Maximize the building's lifespan to avoid massive long-term reconstruction costs while increasing the value of the municipal asset.

4. Execution Timeline

The project spans approximately one year to minimize impact on resident organizations:

• Project Launch: May 4, 2026.

• Active Phase: Intensive exterior and roofing work during Summer and Fall 2026.

• Interior Phase: Safety standards and mechanical work during Winter 2026-2027.

• Final Delivery: Scheduled for Spring 2027.

Impact on Participating Businesses

Though contracts are awarded through public tenders, this project mobilizes experts in:

• Artisanal masonry and heritage wood restoration.

• Building mechanics and specialized elevator systems.

• Structural engineering for heritage-listed buildings.

The work sequence has been planned to maintain access to essential services during construction.

 For residents, this project guarantees that the old market will remain the community heart of the sector for decades to come.

Statistics and Attendance: A Hub of Active Life

The Maisonneuve Market area is more than a vestige of the past; it is a driver of constant foot traffic:

• Annual Attendance: The hub (including the adjacent new public market and community center) attracts over 450,000 visitors per year.

• Local Density: The Hochelaga-Maisonneuve neighborhood is experiencing steady population growth, with over 139,000 residents, increasing the demand for quality public infrastructure.

Economic Impact

• Leverage Effect: Historically, every dollar invested in heritage restoration generates a local economic return through commercial appeal and property value increases (estimated between 5% and 8% for buildings adjacent to restored heritage sites).

• Business Support: By consolidating this hub, the city ensures stability for the local business community, encouraging the retention of local shops on Ontario Street.

Social Impact: The Beating Heart of the Neighborhood

• Sense of Belonging: Restoring such a monument reinforces the identity of MHM residents, who are proud of their working-class roots and distinctive architecture.

• Accessibility: The project includes optimized access for people with reduced mobility, making this cultural and leisure site a truly inclusive space.

"Taking care of our heritage means respecting our past while offering a prestigious and sustainable living environment for future generations." — A vision shared by the project's urban planners.

This $6M investment in MHM is not a simple maintenance expense; it is a City-Branding strategy.

 In a real estate market where authenticity has become a "safe haven" value, preserving the old Maisonneuve Market ensures the neighborhood keeps its soul in the face of rapid gentrification.