Project Highlights
Client : Commission de la capitale nationale du Québec (CCNQ)
Project Manager : Société québécoise des infrastructures (SQI)
Architecture : Daoust Lestage Lizotte Stecker
Consortium – landscape : Daoust Lestage Lizotte Stecker, Option aménagement et Williams Asselin Ackaoui
From Highways to Boulevards
The project spans 2.5 kilometers along the St. Lawrence River, converting inaccessible highways and railways into an inviting urban boulevard. This significant urban overhaul opened up approximately 150,000 square meters of land, creating new spaces for active mobility and public enjoyment. The relocation of railway tracks and the transformation of the highway have reconnected the city’s inhabitants with their riverfront, a primary goal of the Québec government’s legacy project for its capital city.
A Nod to History with Modern Materials
One of the standout features of this phase is its architectural design, which draws inspiration from the area’s rich history in timber trade and shipbuilding. The use of wood as a primary material echoes the industrial ingenuity of early 19th-century craftsmen. This choice not only ties the project to its historical roots but also brings a sense of warmth and natural beauty to the urban landscape. The design language continues from earlier phases, but it also evolves, offering distinct and enhanced visitor amenities.
The main service building, Pavillon des Baigneurs, is a perfect example of this blend. It features two elongated rectangular volumes: a granite base extending from a curvilinear beach wall and a wooden structure atop this base. High-performance glass walls blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, immersing visitors in the beach ambiance. The interior, lined with white wood, reflects the sunny character of coastal areas, enhancing the connection with the natural environment.
Recreational and Ecological Harmony
At the heart of this phase is the newly developed beach, reminiscent of the historic “Plage du Foulon.” This area has been designed to be accessible and open to all, regardless of age, background, or social status, creating a new recreational haven. The beach area is complemented by the “mirror of water” and swimming areas, which give the illusion of being part of the river itself thanks to the overflowing basins’ design.
The project also emphasizes ecological restoration. More than 1,000 trees, 28,950 shrubs, and 117,000 native herbaceous plants have been planted, and efforts have been made to revitalize the Saint-Michel marsh. This ecological focus not only restores biodiversity but also enriches the visitor experience with lush, natural surroundings.
Diverse Spaces for Everyone
The promenade itself is a tapestry of diverse functions and atmospheres. To the west, visitors can stroll through gardens designed to mimic coastal meadows, blending natural contours with native plant compositions. Key architectural elements like the Pavillon de la Côte and Frontenac Quay enhance the contemporary expression of the space. On the eastern side, a dockside trail highlights existing marshlands, leading to an expansive green plain. Facilities such as Pavillon de la Voile, sports facilities, picnic platforms, and river access points make this area versatile and inclusive.
The third phase of Promenade Samuel-De Champlain stands as a testament to thoughtful urban planning and design. It seamlessly integrates historical elements with modern amenities, creating a space that not only honors its past but also looks forward to a sustainable and inclusive future. This project has successfully turned a previously neglected area into a source of collective pride and identity for Québec City, offering residents and visitors alike a meaningful and enjoyable riverfront experience.
