Pierre-Bédard Sponge Park

The residential area located north of Pierre-Bédard Park, in the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough of Montreal, is frequently affected by significant flooding of streets and home basements. This phenomenon is due to the area’s topography, a natural depression formed by the bed of a former stream, as well as the building typology, mainly semi-detached plexes with garage entrances on a downward slope.

To address the challenges related to vulnerability to heavy rainfall, the borough, in collaboration with the City of Montreal’s Water Department and the Department of Urban Planning and Mobility, opted to develop innovative solutions focused on integrating green infrastructure and creating a sponge park.

civiliti supported the borough in the detailed design of the streets and park in order to channel and store 4,000 m³ of water. The water retention program and the presence of mature trees defined the major parameters for redeveloping the park, offering a strong landscape identity and providing residents with a living space featuring pathways, relaxation areas, and social spaces. A differentiated management approach for vegetated areas aims to maximize the park’s biodiversity.