\u201cOne Neighbourhood at a Time\u201d is a participatory urban planning initiative led by the Rosemont\u2013La Petite\u2011Patrie borough in 2024. Its objective was to develop an integrated regional vision looking toward 2050, aligned with the City of Montr\u00e9al\u2019s directions and metropolitan frameworks, in a context where planning tools must respond to both land-use planning schemes and urban planning requirements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mandate was based on a detailed structuring of the region into 13 neighbourhoods, making it possible to recognize local identities and address issues specific to each area while building a cohesive vision at the borough scale. It aimed to define planning directions and neighbourhood-level plans informed by community aspirations. The approach was grounded in the concept of hyper-proximity , with the goal of strengthening human-scale living environments where essential services are accessible within walking distance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Services provided included the analysis of socio-demographic, urban, and mobility data; the production of urban design content and 2D and 3D mapping; the development and implementation of a multi-tool public participation strategy; and the collection, analysis, and integration of public input into planning directions and regional planning. The process engaged residents through an online survey and interactive map, on-site consultations, stakeholder interviews, and four public workshops (one per district). It resulted in 2,640 survey responses, 409 comments collected during field activities, 28 interviews, 1,997 citizen ideas, and participation from 258 people at public workshops. Overall, the process provided the borough with a shared, representative, and operational foundation to guide future planning decisions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mandate included two complementary components. The first focused on developing a vision for managing urban growth to 2050, including updated socio-demographic projections, the identification of development and redevelopment sites, and the assessment of densification potential (housing and building heights), supported by 3D modelling. It also enabled the definition of a gentle densification strategy for existing built environments, taking social acceptability into account. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The second component aimed to define a neighbourhood-scale mobility and traffic calming strategy, based on the analysis of local traffic patterns and Qu\u00e9bec and international best practices, including the superblock concept. This approach emphasizes network hierarchy, reducing through traffic, reallocating public space, and adjusting speeds to improve quality of life. Intervention typologies for the public realm, enabling the phased implementation of these superblocks, were also developed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Through its scope, analytical rigour, and scale of public engagement, this initiative provided the Rosemont\u2013La Petite\u2011Patrie borough with an integrated, shared, and actionable regional vision. It establishes a strong foundation to support the long-term evolution of the area, balancing densification, mobility, quality of life, and ecological transition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n