Curé-Labelle Boulevard

Maria Diamantis
LJI Journalist

The Canadian Institute of Planners has recently unveiled the list of finalists for the 2025 Canadian Urban Planning Excellence Awards, and among them is the Special Urban Planning Program (PPU) for Curé-Labelle Boulevard in Blainville. This ambitious project, which aims to redefine the primary commercial artery of the city, stands out as a model of urban innovation and civic responsibility.
The PPU for Curé-Labelle Boulevard is more than just a redevelopment plan; it represents a comprehensive vision for transforming the heart of Blainville. Focused on enhancing both the commercial vibrancy and the quality of life for residents, the project aligns with sustainable urban development practices, integrating mobility solutions and ecological transition strategies. Being named a finalist for such a prestigious award is a testament to the project’s quality and the city’s commitment to advancing urban planning standards in Canada.
Key members of the team behind this initiative will soon receive a digital badge, a recognition given to individuals or organizations whose projects demonstrate exceptional contributions to the field of urban planning. This badge not only highlights the team’s expertise but also underscores the positive impact that thoughtful urban design can have on the community’s welfare. The accolade serves as a symbol of excellence, innovation, and public interest—a set of values that Blainville has clearly embraced.
Leading the charge was Annie Lévesque, the Director of Urban Planning, Mobility, and Ecological Transition, whose strategic oversight was crucial to the PPU’s success. Working alongside her were Véronic Villeneuve, Head of Planning and Regulation, and a team of dedicated urban planning advisors including Jean-Bernard Adam, Alexandre Lavallée, and Brigitte Cantin. Their combined efforts, supported by Patrick Lépine, Director of Engineering Services, and Sacha Fournier, Head of Project Division, created a collaborative environment that fostered innovative solutions to the city’s urban challenges.
The PPU’s nomination not only shines a spotlight on Blainville but also reinforces the importance of forward-thinking urban policies that prioritize sustainability, mobility, and community well-being. As cities across Canada grapple with the complexities of urban growth, the Curé-Labelle Boulevard project offers a blueprint for balancing economic development with ecological stewardship.
The winners of the Canadian Urban Planning Excellence Awards will be announced publicly in May 2025. Regardless of the outcome, the recognition as a finalist already places Blainville at the forefront of urban planning in Canada, highlighting a path forward that other municipalities might well look to for inspiration.
Blainville’s moment in the national spotlight is a reflection of the broader civic importance of urban planning that goes beyond infrastructure. It is about shaping communities that are not only livable and resilient but also capable of reflecting the aspirations of their residents. As the city awaits the final results, the PPU for Curé-Labelle Boulevard has already established itself as a milestone in urban planning excellence.
In the photo: (from left to right) Brigitte Cantin, Jean-Bernard Adam, Alexandre Lavallée, Sacha Fournier, Véronic Villeneuve, Patrick Lépine, and Annie Lévesque.