The City of Westmount has initiated the “Pilot Project: Claremont Triangle” without proper public consultation, merging it last minute with the planned reconstruction of Claremont Avenue project. The pilot project involves closing NDG Avenue next to Marianopolis College and altering traffic patterns on Claremont, Westmount Avenue and across Westmount. We oppose this pilot project because:
1) No Safety Study: The redesign has made crosswalks around the Claremont Triangle less safe for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. The funneling of traffic and mixed bicycle and bus lanes have increased frustration and speeding.
2) No Environmental Study – Save the Park: The project proceeded without an environmental study and has increased pollution. The possibility of widening Claremont Ave announced by city hall threatens the integrity and heritage of Claremont Triangle Park.
3) Flawed Traffic Study: The traffic study by WSP was flawed as it mandated the road closure, failed to assess alternatives or traffic impacts, eliminated fluidity and simply moved the problem elsewhere by rerouting traffic to Victoria and Grosvenor.
4) Lack of Democratic Process: The City did not disclose the NDG Avenue closure during public consultations on the reconstruction of Avenue Claremont in May 2024, after mandating WSP to determine how to close the road with a view to making it permanent in April, showing a lack of transparency and accountability.