The City of Laval has received provincial recognition for its transformative Immeubles Val-Martin social and affordable housing project, securing the prestigious Mérite Ovation municipale from the Union des municipalités du Québec (UMQ).
The award, presented in the Urban Planning and Development category during the UMQ’s 20th annual gala on May 16th in Quebec City, celebrates the project’s innovative approach and significant positive impact on the Chomedey sector. The ambitious 359-unit development has revitalized an aging residential complex, laying the groundwork for a sustainable and inclusive community.
The project, which began construction in 2017 and reached completion in 2024, replaces dilapidated 1950s buildings, some of which were dismantled due to insalubrity, with modern, quality homes. “Val-Martin is much more than a real estate project,” stated Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer.
“It’s a bold vision that rethinks how you transform a neighbourhood. Thanks to an innovative approach and unprecedented mobilization, we have gone far beyond the construction of social and affordable housing, by laying the foundations for a real, sustainable and inclusive living environment. I extend my sincere congratulations to the teams who worked on this project.”
The Immeubles Val-Martin project stands out for its comprehensive urban regeneration strategy. Spearheaded by the City of Laval and the Office municipal d’habitation de Laval (OMHL), the initiative successfully brought together citizens and various partners.
This collaborative effort was crucial in reshaping a devitalized area into what is now described as an inspiring living environment. Key support for the project came from the Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ) and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Aimed at achieving LEED-ND (Neighbourhood Development) certification – a first for Laval in this regard – the project emphasizes sustainable practices and community well-being.
Beyond the new housing units, the development includes the Simonne-Monet-Chartrand community centre, which will now house the relocated Val-Martin community centre, further enhancing the neighbourhood’s social infrastructure. The UMQ’s Mérite Ovation municipale awards are highly regarded in Quebec’s municipal sector, recognizing municipalities that demonstrate innovation and excellence in various public service domains. The Val-Martin project’s success in the Urban Planning and Development category highlights its significance as a model for future social and affordable housing initiatives across the province.
