Parc des Gorilles

Located in Marconi‐Alexandra, the Gorilles hub aims to stimulate the redevelopment of the overall area by highlighting the railway and industrial heritage of the territory while supporting a citizen engagement that began in 2013 following the reckless destruction of a cherished landscaped brownfield to the north of Beaubien Street. The hub is organized around an identity-defining and structuring public space, Gorilles Park. The hub is organized around an identity-defining and structuring public space, Gorilles Park.

The park project is conceived as a nature enclave, a north-south promenade, hosting a program focused on discovering flora and heritage, raising awareness, fostering exchanges between citizens from all backgrounds, and celebrating the present moment, acts of simplicity, and a renewed connection with nature.

In a highly urbanized area, the intense greening initiative introduces a new plant heritage based on the principles of micro-forests, with the planting of over 4000 plants and 1500 new trees. A bioretention basin manages the stormwater from the entire park and from Waverly Street directly west of the park. A bioretention basin manages the stormwater from the entire park and from Waverly Street directly west of the park.

With its sawtooth terrace and its lost railway car, both made of wood and Corten steel, the design elements reflect the industrial and railway history of the site. A shelter is at the heart of the park and serves as an iconic space for community activities.