The MMC aims to build 75,000 housing units in parking lots

The Montreal Metropolitan Community (MMC) recently unveiled an ambitious project to transform vacant parking lots and underutilized commercial spaces into 75,000 new housing units.

This initiative is part of a broader urban redevelopment strategy aimed at meeting growing housing demand while preserving agricultural areas and natural environments.

Huge Potential for Redevelopment

According to the CMM, approximately 62 strategic redevelopment areas have been identified in the metropolitan area, including commercial spaces that can be densified.

These sites, totaling 1,580 hectares, represent approximately seven times the size of Mount Royal Park.

Marie-Michèle Cauchy, Director of Sustainable and Prosperous Living Environments at the CMM, emphasized the importance of consolidating existing spaces to avoid urban sprawl and protect agricultural land.

Complete and Accessible Neighborhoods

The objective of this project is to create complete neighborhoods, including parks, schools, new streets, offices, businesses, and cultural institutions.

The 62 identified sites are all located near public transit, thus facilitating walking and promoting active transportation.

Around 170 to 340 homes could be built per hectare, providing a viable solution to the region's housing crisis.

A community-supported project

This project will be presented at the Strategic Forum on Major Projects, organized by the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal (CCMM).

The discussion will focus on the immense potential of underutilized sites in the Greater Montreal area, both on the island and in the surrounding suburbs.

However, the final decision regarding the percentage of housing units to be built will rest with cities, regional county municipalities (RCMs), and urban agglomerations.

The CMM's project to build 75,000 housing units in vacant parking lots represents a unique opportunity for urban redevelopment.

By creating complete and accessible neighborhoods, this project aims to meet the growing demand for housing while preserving agricultural areas and natural environments.

Collaboration between the various municipal authorities will be essential to ensure the success of this ambitious initiative.