Ever wondered how a former airport runway transformed into a thriving community? Welcome to Bois-Francs. This vibrant Montreal neighbourhood wasn’t always filled with homes and green spaces. It began as the Cartierville Airport. Bombardier Aerospace once owned the land. They sold it in 1990. A visionary real estate project took flight. Bois-Francs was born.
The project’s architects embraced New Urbanism. They aimed to create a walkable neighbourhood. This design philosophy prioritized mixed-use spaces. Residents would have everything within easy reach. It’s a community where people care about their environment.
The transformation was substantial. The 200-hectare runway vanished. In its place rose thousands of housing units. The developers incorporated green spaces. They included lakes and bike paths. This commitment to nature is remarkable. Thirty-one percent of the land remains green. This contrasts sharply with many urban developments. Bois-Francs boasts numerous squares and plazas. La Grand-Place is a hub of local shops. You won’t find any garage doors on the front of houses either. Cars are parked underground. This preserves the neighbourhood’s aesthetic. It showcases innovative urban planning.
In 2010 a shift occurred. Bombardier Real Estate Services handed over the reins. Two partners took charge. They envisioned and created Le Quartier. This is the final phase of the project. The vision for Bois-Francs continues. LEED-certified condos and townhouses stand alongside the green spaces. The original design vision remains. It is an innovative urban space.
Bois-Francs is more than just homes. It is a testament to thoughtful planning. It showcases a harmonious blend of urban living and natural beauty. It stands as a model for sustainable urban development. It’s a place where the past gave way to a vibrant future. It shows how a former airport could become a remarkable neighbourhood. Walk these streets and you’ll see a community flourishing. This is the legacy of Bois-Francs.