Turning the Corner: Lachine’s New Civic Hub for Green Innovation and Community Engagement

lachine’s “Turning Corner” Aims to Become a Vibrant Community Hub

Lachine, QC – A community space in Lachine is undergoing a change, aiming to become a true “third place” – a hub for connection, learning, and citizen-led initiatives. Located at 735 rue Notre-Dame, within the Regroupement de Lachine (RL) building, The Turning Corner is spearheaded by GRAME (Group of Recommendations and Actions for a Better Habitat) but seeks to be driven by the community it serves.

the space, which opened in the fall of 2025, currently serves as a reception area and resource point for organizations like Concert’action Lachine and Carrefour-Jeunesse Emploi Lachine, assisting those seeking employment, immigration support, and offering eco-pleasant products and battery recycling. Though, GRAME envisions a more dynamic role.

the turning corner is the successor to the beloved citizen café, Le trois-Mâts, which unfortunately closed during the pandemic. Recognizing the potential of the space – a concept known as a “third place” distinct from home and work – GRAME launched a committee to reimagine its future.

“We want people to come here because they want to telework, to chiller,” explains Camille Hadjadj, operations manager at Éco-Quartier Lachine. “We try to make it visible that this space is also there for that.”

To achieve this vision, GRAME is actively recruiting volunteers wiht diverse skills. They’re seeking “citizen volunteers” to contribute time and energy, and “action research volunteers” with backgrounds in fields like architecture, design, and sociology to help analyze the community’s needs and develop a long-term strategy.

The goal is to transform The Turning Corner into a center for education on sustainability – covering topics like ecological mobility and waste management – and a platform for community-driven projects. currently,an exhibit showcasing archival photos of Lachine-Est’s industrial past is on display,highlighting the area’s evolving history.

GRAME hopes The Turning Corner will become a place where Lachinois can connect, collaborate, and contribute to a more vibrant and lasting future. The organization is planning a programme of activities and events to further foster community engagement and encourage residents to take ownership of the space.

What sustainable features are included in Lachine’s new civic hub?

Turning the Corner: Lachine’s New Civic Hub for Green Innovation and Community Engagement

Lachine, a historic borough of Montreal, is undergoing a significant transformation with the advancement of its new civic hub – a project poised to become a beacon for sustainable practices and community collaboration. this isn’t simply a new building; it’s a reimagining of civic space,designed to foster both environmental obligation and a stronger sense of belonging for residents.

A Vision rooted in Sustainability

The core principle driving the Lachine Civic Hub is sustainable development.The project aims to achieve LEED Gold certification, demonstrating a commitment to energy efficiency, water conservation, and responsible material sourcing. This translates into tangible features like:

* Green Roof Technology: Reducing stormwater runoff, improving insulation, and creating habitat for local biodiversity.

* Solar Panel Integration: Generating renewable energy on-site, lessening the building’s carbon footprint.

* Geothermal Heating & Cooling: Utilizing the earth’s natural temperature to regulate the building’s climate, significantly reducing energy consumption.

* rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and reusing rainwater for non-potable purposes like irrigation and toilet flushing.

Beyond the building itself, the surrounding landscape is being designed with ecological restoration in mind. Native plant species are being prioritized to support local pollinators and create a more resilient urban ecosystem. This focus on environmental stewardship extends to the hub’s operational practices, with plans for comprehensive waste management and recycling programs.

Community at the Heart of the Design

The Lachine Civic Hub isn’t just for the community; it’s being built with the community. Extensive public consultations were held throughout the planning process, ensuring that the final design reflects the needs and aspirations of Lachine residents.

The hub will house a variety of services and spaces, including:

1. A Modern Library: Offering access to books, digital resources, and community programming.
2. Flexible Community Rooms: Available for meetings, workshops, and events.
3. Co-working Spaces: Supporting local entrepreneurs and remote workers.
4. A Dedicated Youth Zone: Providing a safe and engaging space for young people.
5. Enhanced Public Spaces: Including a plaza for outdoor gatherings and a children’s play area.

This multi-functional approach aims to create a vibrant and inclusive space where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect, learn, and collaborate.The integration of these diverse functions promotes social cohesion and strengthens the fabric of the Lachine community.

Fostering Green Innovation

The “innovation” aspect of the hub isn’t merely a buzzword. Lachine is actively positioning the civic center as a catalyst for green technology and sustainable business. Plans include:

* Incubator Space: Providing support and resources for startups focused on environmental solutions.

* Educational Workshops: Offering training on topics like renewable energy,urban agriculture,and sustainable living.

* Presentation Projects: Showcasing innovative green technologies in action.

* Partnerships with Local Universities & Colleges: Facilitating research and development in the field of sustainability.

This commitment to eco-innovation aims to attract investment, create jobs, and position Lachine as a leader in the green economy. The hub will serve as a living laboratory, demonstrating the practical benefits of sustainable practices and inspiring others to adopt similar approaches.

Lessons from Similar Projects: The case of Vauban, Freiburg

Looking to prosperous examples elsewhere provides valuable insight. The Vauban district in Freiburg, Germany, is a prime example of a sustainable community built from the ground up. Vauban prioritizes pedestrian and bicycle traffic, utilizes passive solar design, and features extensive green spaces. Like Lachine’s hub, Vauban demonstrates that integrated urban planning – combining environmental sustainability with social equity – is key to creating thriving, resilient communities. The Lachine project is drawing inspiration from Vauban’s success in fostering a strong sense of community ownership and promoting sustainable lifestyles.

Accessibility and Transportation

recognizing the importance of accessibility, the Lachine Civic Hub is being designed to be easily reachable by various modes of transportation. This includes:

* Improved Pedestrian & Bicycle Infrastructure: Creating safe and convenient routes to and from the hub.

* Enhanced Public Transit Connections: Ensuring convenient access via bus and perhaps future light rail extensions.

* Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Supporting the adoption of electric vehicles.

* Secure Bicycle Parking: Encouraging cycling as a sustainable transportation option.

These measures aim to reduce reliance on private vehicles, promote active transportation, and minimize the hub’s environmental impact. The focus on active mobility aligns with Lachine’s broader efforts to create a more walkable and bikeable borough.

Long-Term Benefits and Community Impact

The Lachine Civic Hub represents a significant investment in the borough’s future. The anticipated benefits extend far beyond the immediate environmental and social gains. These include:

* Increased Property Values: Attractive, sustainable communities tend to experience increased property values.

* economic Development: The hub will attract businesses and create jobs.

* Improved Public Health: Access to green spaces and active transportation options promotes physical and mental well-being.

* Enhanced Community Pride: A vibrant and inclusive civic hub fosters a stronger sense of belonging.

The Lachine Civic Hub is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of a community’s commitment to a sustainable and equitable future. It’s a turning point for Lachine, demonstrating that smart urban planning can create thriving, resilient communities for generations to come.