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Last week, Montreal-based developer Carbonleo presented a revised version of its Royalmount project, named for its location in Mount Royal. Already in its earliest stages of construction at 8600 Décarie Boulevard, the updated plan for the massive mixed-use community of towers puts an increased focus on a mix of uses, pedestrian and transit accessibility, and energy efficiency. This announcement comes following an extensive public consultation process conducted last year.
"Our vision for Royalmount is completely different than it was five years ago," said Andrew Lutfy, Carbonleo President and CEO. "We reviewed the essence of our project in order to make it an iconic destination where the serenity of nature meets the bustle and excitement of the city. We want to create an inclusive place where everyone's values and aspirations will be shared and explored."
In an effort to build a complete community with the necessary critical mass to support the complex's sizeable mall element, the developer is now planning to inject 4,500 residential units into the picture. This change requires additional rezoning, now currently being reviewed by Town of Mount Royal staff. Other changes since the initial rezoning include the removal of an outdoor stage and two performance venues, along with a 30% reduction in the planned commercial space.
The newly added residential towers would be accented with a series of vertical gardens featuring plants adapted to the Québec climate. Public spaces would bring additional greenery to the site, while improving the pedestrian experience in and around the complex. These spaces include an urban woodland, a 3.8-km linear pedestrian path accessible year round, and a central park.
A pedestrian-oriented development is only possible with the help of mass transit systems, the motivation behind a covered pedestrian and bicycle link to the De la Savane metro station, where a public square and mobility hub would exist. As a result of these improved transit connections, the number of parking spaces has been reduced by 60% from 12,000 to fewer than 5,000 for the commercial component, while the residential component would be served at a rate of 0.5 spaces per unit.
For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.
