Downtown Montreal merchants divide over Sainte-Catherine revamp [Video]

More greenery and social spaces are coming to Saint-Catherine Street West in downtown Montreal, but some merchants aren’t happy about it.

The second phase of the street’s redevelopment will be between Peel and St. Marc streets and will be completed within five years.

“I know it’s bothersome … but I have to say it should have been done sooner,” said Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante.

Plante said important work needs to be done on the street’s underground infrastructure to avoid having more pipes burst, and the city is taking advantage of the opportunity to give the street a makeover.

It plans to create two public squares on Saint-Catherine West: Place McGill, between Robert Bourassa and Mansfield; and Place Concordia, between Bishop and Guy. Both will be permanently pedestrian-only, with large plants and seating areas. Plante said she wants to see more greenspace downtown to help combat the urban heat island effect.

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