Boroughs

Montreal, Friday, October 23rd, 2009 – Richard Bergeron, Projet Montréal party leader and Montreal mayoral candidate, as well as Yannick Brosseau, Verdun mayoral candidate for Projet Montréal, revealed their plans this morning to create a beach along the St-Lawrence River.

Gathered around the back of the Verdun Auditorium, within a stone’s throw of the river bank, Mr. Bergeron and Mr. Brosseau confirmed, accompanied by a photo presentation, their intention of transforming the asphalt and concrete relics of the old Verdun marina into a sandy beach, where citizens can swim all summer long. According to Mr. Bergeron, the site will be restored while minimising any environmental impact. “The St-Lawrence River is a rich resource that belongs to us all, and it’s out of the question that we put its existing ecosystem in peril,” he reassured.

“The water quality was good all summer,” furthered Mr. Brosseau. “In fact, where docks have been installed, people already swim in the river. But it’s not enough, and it’s not ideal for families. With the support of Verdun residents, we are committed to creating a real beach where children will be able to play in the sand and swim during the summer season.”

Mr. Bergeron added that undertaking this project is a wonderful opportunity for revitalising the neighbourhood, particularly between the Église metro station and the Verdun Auditorium. They plan on refurbishing this area by taking into account the needs of pedestrians. “Beachgoers will be able to get there with ease using public transport, and especially, in complete safety.”

Mr. Bergeron and Mr. Brosseau also intend to take advantage of the planned public works along the bank by building a bridge that will connect Nun’s Island with the rest of the borough. The bridge will allow the people of Nun’s Island to easily access the new beach by foot or by bike, and will provide a reserved lane for buses and emergency vehicles.

The image presented during the press conference is available for download in high resolution here: http://www.projetmontreal.org/files/documents/plage_verdun.jpg