The uncertain future for development of the Connaught Park (old hippodrome) area has piqued the curiosity of neighbours, who are interested in plans for a primary school and an “eco-neighbourhood”, announced by Councillor Riel.  Several residents have formed the Connaught Park Residents’ Association (CPRA).  According to the interim administrators, Martin Labelle, Jean-Sébastien Racine and Maxime Ricard, the association will allow people to better communicate with the developer, the city, and with other neighbourhood associations.  They hope to participate in designing the housing project here, the first “eco-neighbourhood” in the city.

First general meeting, January 28

Councillor Alain Riel, who represents the area, now has seven residents’ associations in his ward.  “I congratulate them all for their initiative, and I’ll be there for their first meeting on January 28.  Clearly, they’re intrigued by the eco-neighbourhood, and what will be best is to establish a dialogue, create connections, and monitor citizens’ concerns,” he told the Bulletin.  CPRA is hoping that the city will provide funding to cover operational costs, while Councillor Riel may also contribute from his discretionary fund.

(Transl.: JM)