Saint-Leonard residents in need of permanent flood solutions, as sandbags offer only temporary relief to homes on Belmont Street. Concerns arise as heavy rains continue to threaten the area.
Residents of Saint-Leonard are urging for lasting flood prevention measures as they face recurring issues with heavy summer rains. The recent installation of sandbags around homes on Belmont Street has provided a temporary fix, but locals are calling for more sustainable solutions to combat the ongoing flooding challenges.
Mario Napolitano, a resident, expressed dissatisfaction with the sandbag approach, emphasizing that it hinders driveway access for homeowners. The sentiment was echoed by many at a recent borough council meeting where residents voiced frustrations and demanded more effective flood protection strategies in light of upcoming forecasts for heavy rainfall.
Previous incidents of flooding in basement suites along Belmont Street in 2024 and 2025 have highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive flood mitigation efforts. While the City of Montreal has offered sandbags to affected homes, concerns remain for elderly residents like Mila Marunych, who find it physically challenging to handle the heavy bags.
Mayor Dominic Perri acknowledged that sandbags are a temporary fix and emphasized the necessity for a long-term solution, such as the expansion of the Langelier water collector. However, the timeline for implementing permanent flood prevention measures remains uncertain, causing difficulties for residents looking to rent out basement suites or sell properties in the flood-prone area.
Despite the challenges, the borough has taken steps to mitigate flooding, including the construction of a sponge park and tree planting initiatives. Additionally, the City of Montreal’s RénoPlex program offers support for waterproofing homes, providing subsidies for measures like waterproof garage doors.
