With the Montreal municipal election approaching in less than a month, the mayoral candidates representing Projet Montréal and Ensemble Montréal engaged in a lively debate on Monday morning. The focus of the debate, hosted by the Chambre de commerce de l’Est de Montréal (CCEM), revolved around their visions and plans for revitalizing the East End of the city.
During the discussion, various themes were explored such as regional vision, infrastructure, transportation, the economy, quality of life, and collaboration among different levels of government. A major highlight of the debate was the shared commitment of both candidates to prioritize the construction of a tramway in the area.
Luc Rabouin, the mayoral candidate for Projet Montréal, emphasized the urgency of moving the tramway project forward in East Montreal. He stated, “We have a consensus on this project and now it’s time to act and deliver without delay, under the responsibility of Mobilité Infra Québec.”
On the other hand, Soraya Martinez-Ferrada, representing Ensemble Montréal, echoed the importance of transportation for the East’s development. She stressed the need to work closely with Quebec to ensure the realization of the desired tramway, which she believes will shape the city’s future in the coming decades.
Jean-Denis Charest, CEO of the CCEM, highlighted that the tramway project is not just about transportation but also serves as a catalyst for the overall development and revitalization of the region, including housing and attracting significant economic ventures.
Rabouin also underlined the significance of addressing housing issues in the East to benefit its residents, making it a primary concern in his agenda. Meanwhile, Martinez-Ferrada emphasized the necessity of bringing together all levels of government to create a unified and strategic plan for the region’s progress.
Charest concluded that while both candidates share a common vision for the East, the key differentiator will be the ability to secure the substantial investments required to turn these plans into reality, emphasizing the need for effective and strategic financial backing.
