Soraya Martinez Ferrada, a mayoral candidate, has unveiled her plans to enhance accessibility to key sports facilities in the city if she wins the election.
The leader of Ensemble Montréal has proposed reinstating free parking at the Centre Claude-Robillard in Ahuntsic. This initiative aims to alleviate the issue of visitors parking on nearby residential streets, according to Martinez Ferrada.
In 2024, the City of Montreal handed over the management of 324 parking spots, which were previously free, to the Agence de mobilité durable de Montréal. While some free parking spaces, limited to two hours, were reintroduced the following month.
Martinez Ferrada criticized the Plante-Rabouin administration for charging fees to access the city’s sports facilities.
Additionally, Ensemble Montréal has pledged to revamp the Verdun Natatorium with a $40 million investment. Martinez Ferrada has committed to kick-starting this project within the next four years.
She has also promised immediate maintenance of the facility’s assets, including restoring heating and addressing essential structural issues.
The historic art deco building has been closed since 2017 due to significant structural concerns. Despite talks of its demolition, residents and Heritage Montreal have advocated for its preservation.
Martinez Ferrada emphasized that restoring free parking at the Claude-Robillard Complex and renovating the Verdun Natatorium are crucial steps towards fairness for all citizens, whether they are families or athletes.
