$33M in federal funding for Parc-Extension and St-Michel community projects

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a federal investment of more than $33 million to help support three infrastructure projects in Montreal on Wednesday.

The projects include the construction of a recreation and community centre in Parc-Extension and a community house in Saint-Michel, both of which will be built following carbon-neutral standards.

Additionally, the government plans to renovate the future location of the Afrique au féminin organization, in the Parc-Extension neighbourhood.

“Our government is fast-tracking housing construction and investing in modern and sustainable infrastructure right across the country,” said Trudeau. “With the projects announced today, communities will have the vibrant spaces they deserve – spaces where people living in Papineau and its surrounding neighbourhoods can come together, celebrate special occasions, and reach their full potential.”

The infrastructure projects are funded through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program (GIBC), with a federal investment of more than $33 million in Montreal.

According to a press release, the federal government has invested over $1.1 billion through the program to support community infrastructure projects across Canada.

“Community buildings are at the heart of Canadian cities and municipalities,” said Housing Minister Sean Fraser. “The construction of new, environmentally friendly buildings will help Canadians create healthier communities, while contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.”

Over $18.3 million has been set aside for the Parc-Extension Recreation and Community Centre, where people can come together and enjoy recreational activities.

“The building will include various multipurpose spaces, such as meeting rooms, common areas, a gym, a community kitchen, and offices for local organizations,” reads the press release.

Salwa Ben Belgacem is the executive director of the Table de Quartier de Parc-Extension.

She said this investment is a powerful symbol of support and development for the neighbourhood.

“This is a victory for the entire Parc-Extension community. Together, we’ve proven that great things can be achieved through unity,” said Belgacem.

More than $11.6 million will go towards the construction of the Saint-Michel Community House; a three-floor building to house numerous community groups and will feature an industrial kitchen and multipurpose room.

The future location of Afrique au féminin will receive over $3.7 million for their renovation.

“The project will include the construction of two floors, the expansion of the north side of the building, the installation of a green roof and new windows, better insulation, and the implementation of modern mechanical and electrical systems to provide a comfortable experience for users,” noted the press release.

Also, the paved areas outside of the building will be turned into green spaces.

The GICB program was launched in 2021 with an initial investment of $1.5 billion over five years. It supports green repairs or upgrades of existing community buildings, as well as the construction of new publicly accessible community buildings for high-need and underserved communities throughout Canada.

Additionally, the Liberal government announced an additional $500 million over five years, for the 2024-25 budget to support more projects through the GICB program.

At least 10 per cent of GICB funding is allocated to projects that support First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, including the Indigenous population in urban centres.