JOHN JANTAK
The 1510 West

The planned construction of a new multi-unit seniors’ complex in Pointe Claire has one resident demanding the city unveil the plans before the project moves forward.

Nickie Fournier is concerned about how the multi-storey building that eventually will house 204 seniors will impact the surrounding neighbourhood, the area where she lives.

Although there is no firm timeline for construction of the planned building, she sees how close another new seniors’ complex that is currently under construction on Sources Blvd. is taking shape – a seven-storey facility that will house 192 seniors – and she is worried.

“It’s ridiculous what they’ve done, putting the building so close to the homes behind,” Fournier said, referring to the complex under construction on Sources. “It’s unacceptable.”

The height of the building, which towers over the neighbouring houses, will cast shadows on surrounding homes, Fournier said. She does not want to see the same thing in her neighbourhood. A tall structure would have a similar impact on her home and three other neighbouring houses.

“The building will be right behind the four houses on Maywood Ave.,” Fournier said.

Both new seniors’ facilities are projects put forward by the CIUSSS de l’Ouest de l’Île de Montréal, the regional health authority that will administer the care facilities. The building on Sources Blvd. is expected to open by winter 2025.

Plans for a similar facility in Pointe Claire will see the structure be built at the southeast corner St. John’s Blvd. at Hymus Blvd. The project is currently in the planning phase and the construction timeline has not been determined.

“There’s not much the city can do get the province to modify their plans,” said Pointe Claire Mayor Tim Thomas. “We can do our best to influence how the project will be developed, but they have the final say.”

“We can always try,” Thomas added. “There’s no reason we can’t appeal to reason if there’s something that doesn’t make any sense.”

Thomas said he is more concerned in how the project will increase traffic in the area.

“How people get in and get out is crucial,” he said. “Maywood is a small street, so we have to find a way not to put the bulk of the traffic onto it.”

“What’s crucial is how people get in and out of the building because that’s going to have an impact on the citizens,” Thomas added.

But that does not satisfy Fournier. She maintains residents should be able to see plans for the building before it’s too late. “Let us in on the plans. Let us know what’s going to happen,” she said.