The City of Montreal and the borough of Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve are proud to launch the project to refurbish the Pierre-Lorange swimming pool and expand the existing Hochelaga library building, which will eventually become a community center. With the launch of this major renovation and construction project, the Town aims to expand and consolidate its sports and leisure facilities and create a multi-service hub in the Hochelaga sector.
The refurbishment and expansion project is largely financed by the City of Montreal, which is contributing close to $25 million, notably through the Programme aquatique de Montréal - Mise aux normes component and the 3rd edition of the participatory budget. In addition, the borough of Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve is making a significant contribution, ultimately investing nearly $11 million to support the completion of this structuring project. Work is scheduled to start in spring 2027.
“I'm proud to announce the upgrading of an essential infrastructure for Hochelaga residents, which will benefit the entire east end of Montreal. This project reflects our commitment to building complete living environments and prioritizing equity in sports and cultural offerings in all neighbourhoods. By investing here, we are responding to the principle of social and territorial equity that our Administration has been promoting for the past 8 years. We are proud to offer the population of Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve meeting places where they can thrive and stay healthy,” declared Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante.
The Pierre-Lorange pool will undergo major work to improve the accessibility, safety and functionality of its facilities. These interventions will meet the needs of a diversified clientele while ensuring compliance with current standards.
A more inclusive environment
The measures identified in terms of universal accessibility aim to promote an equitable and safe experience for all. They include:
- refurbishment of universal changing rooms and toilets;
- the construction of a staircase and access ramp in the pool, facilitating entry to the water for people with reduced mobility, seniors, children and anyone needing easier access to aquatic activities;
- the addition of a redesigned reception desk, to improve orientation and safety for visitors as soon as they arrive.
Upgrades and functional improvements
Technical improvements are also planned to ensure the durability and performance of the aquatic facilities:
- repair and restoration of the pool's waterproofing;
- replacement of the beach ceramics;
- upgrading the dehumidification system;
- renewal of aquatic equipment.
This work reflects the city's commitment to providing modern, safe sports facilities that are genuinely accessible to all. The City encourages the participation of the entire population in physical activities, with the aim of contributing to their health, well-being and quality of life. These improvements also help preserve municipal assets, enhance the range of local services on offer and provide a friendly, inclusive place to cool off, particularly appreciated during periods of intense heat.
Library relocation and new community vocation for the building
The current Hochelaga library building will be doubled in size to 10,000 square feet, giving it a new community vocation. Programming will be developed in partnership with the occupying organization, which will offer a range of services in line with the needs of the local community. At the same time, the Hochelaga library will be relocated to new premises. This move will enhance the cultural and educational services offered to the neighborhood's population.
“The consolidation of the community space at the Centre communautaire Hochelaga represents a significant step forward for the neighborhood. Thanks to this modernized environment, the new community center will be able to expand its leisure and community support services to meet growing demand. The creation of this sports and community center demonstrates our commitment to offering free activities and support resources that will contribute to the sense of belonging of all borough residents. It's a major project that I'm convinced will make a difference to the social and community fabric of our borough,” concluded Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve Borough Mayor Pierre Lessard-Blais.
SOURCE City of Montreal - Office of the Mayor and Executive Committee
