This article written in french by Benoit Leblanc was automatically translated using AI
While citizens have submitted a petition demanding the suspension of the project, a new welcome pavilion will nevertheless be built at Bois de l’Équerre to greet visitors and showcase this Laval natural gem.
The City of Laval announced the news in a press release issued the day after the municipal council meeting on Tuesday, September 9, specifying that the pavilion will feature a modern and eco-friendly design.
The contract, valued at $8.15M including taxes, was awarded to Entreprises Philippe Denis.
With this contract, and taking into account savings realized during municipal service works, the overall project will be carried out at a cost nearly 30% lower than the initial estimates.
The project is also supported by a major grant from the Government of Quebec and the Montreal Metropolitan Community (CMM), which will cover two-thirds of the eligible costs under the Green and Blue Corridor financial assistance program, up to a maximum of $6.6M.
Construction work will begin shortly in September and continue through October 2026.
“This new pavilion will allow Laval residents to enjoy modern, user-friendly facilities year-round, enhancing their experience at Bois de l’Équerre,” declared Mayor Stéphane Boyer in the release. “Everything has been designed to make this natural treasure even more accessible and enjoyable to visit.”
“The Greater Montreal Green and Blue Corridor is a recreational tourism network that brings citizens closer to nature,” added Valérie Plante, president of the CMM. “By supporting Laval in building this pavilion, the CMM is helping conserve an exceptional natural environment while promoting the territory’s adaptation to climate change.”
For the community
In addition to a welcome area, public space, and multipurpose room, the future pavilion will include washrooms, water fountains, a rest area for meals or warming up in winter, as well as storage spaces and lockers for visitors.
Outdoors, there will be an activity area and a recreational hill. Parking lots and access roads will also be reconfigured.
The pavilion, managed by the organization CANOPÉE, will also serve as the administrative center for managing all wooded areas across the territory.
Administrative and support offices, a workshop, a garage, and a covered warehouse will therefore be integrated into the building, enabling the organization to fully carry out its mission.
Access during construction
Bois de l’Équerre will remain accessible during construction via the secondary entrance at 4204, Industriel Boulevard.
The main entrance, located at 49, Rang de l’Équerre, will be closed.
Public art competition
In connection with the project, the City of Laval is also launching a public art competition to create an outdoor monolithic work as part of an initiative combining art and nature.
All details of the competition will soon be available on the City of Laval’s website. (B.L.)
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