Picture a sprawling green space. It rises unexpectedly from what was once a limestone quarry and landfill. Welcome to Fréderic-Back Park.
This urban oasis is more than just a park. It is a testament to Montreal’s commitment to environmental rehabilitation. The story of Fréderic-Back Park is one of transformation and innovation.
For 60 years the land was a quarry operated by the Miron family. In 1988, the City of Montreal acquired the site. It became a landfill. In 1995, it was renamed the Saint-Michel Environmental Complex. This recognized its location in the Saint-Michel neighborhood.
As of 2020, landfill activities still took place. In 2016, the area destined to become a park was named Fréderic-Back Park. It honors Fréderic Back. He was a painter, illustrator, and film director. He produced the 1987 film “The Man Who Planted Trees”.
Citizen protests arose from blasting sessions at the Miron quarry. The Miron firm transformed 75 hectares into a landfill site for domestic waste.
The city demolished two iconic cement factory chimneys in front of 50000 people. During the 1990s, Montreal established a recycling sorting center. A power plant converted biogas from the landfill into electricity.
Since 1995, the city has been reworking the site. The goal to create an urban green space is now comparable in size to Mount Royal Park. A cycling and pedestrian path encircles the park. In winter, it transforms into a cross-country ski trail.
Two new sections opened in 2017. They are Parvis Papineau and BoisÉ Est. They add 17.7 hectares to the park.
Fréderic-Back Park is set to become one of Montreal’s largest urban parks. It is estimated to reach 153 hectares. It represents one of North America’s most ambitious environmental remediation projects. The works are planned to be completed by 2026.
Almost 75 hectares are still used for waste disposal as of 2020. The complex includes a recyclable material recovery center. There is also an electric power station. It operates by recovering biogas. You will also find a composting site and a landfill site here.
The Center of Expertise on Residual Materials is located in the complex. It researches ecological and sustainable management of residual materials. The Cité des Arts du Cirque, a non-profit organization, is also on the site. Its mission is to promote Montreal as an international capital of circus arts. It supports the environmental rehabilitation of the landfill. The organization also aids the community development of Saint-Michel.
Look around. Notice the spheres scattered throughout the eastern sector. These protect the biogas collection wells. Their shape prevents noticing ground movement. They also glow green at dusk.
Fréderic-Back Park promotes zero waste. There are no collection bins. Each person is responsible for taking their waste out of the park.
Take note of “Anamnèse 1+1”. This permanent artwork was installed in 2017. Alain-Martin Richard created it. It features a cast aluminum rectangle with a tree emerging from the top. There are thirty partially buried stones along the path. Words and reproductions of residents appear on them.
The park rehabilitation project has received many awards. These include the Grands Prix du Design for the biogas-capturing wells.
As you explore Fréderic-Back Park, remember its history. It rose from a quarry and landfill. It now stands as a symbol of Montreal’s dedication to creating green spaces for everyone.