Led by the City of Rouyn-Noranda, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Rouyn-Noranda, the project aims to transform a vacant lot that has been empty for several years into a gathering place combining nature, culture, and civic life. "This lot had no purpose. It's been vacant since I took office. The idea is to make it a place where citizens can meet, while also greening our city," says Mayor Gilles Chapadeau.
The project represents a total investment of $260,000, including a $100,000 contribution from the Rotary club and $50,000 in financial support from Trees Canada.
Gilles Chapadeau, mayor of Rouyn-Noranda, with Jean Charles Coutu, former mayor of Rouyn-Noranda. (Photo credit: Le Citoyen — Ricardo Jr Emmanuel)
The site development will include planting trees and vegetation adapted to the regional climate, installing street furniture, creating meeting spaces, and an area dedicated to displaying visual art. The goal is to create a green oasis in the heart of the city centre, with small bistro tables and a large communal table seating up to 16 people, to encourage interaction and exchange among residents. The project concept is also part of a public consultation process conducted in 2023 with residents, local organizations, and neighbouring educational institutions to address the needs expressed by the community. According to the City, this initiative is part of a broader vision of sustainable urban development and the enhancement of public spaces. "We want a greener, more welcoming city, places where people can gather," added the mayor, emphasizing that this project is the first step in other future land-use planning initiatives.
This vacant lot at the corner of Perreault Street East and Larrivière Avenue is about to undergo a complete transformation by the fall of 2026. (Photo credit: Le Citoyen — Ricardo Jr Emmanuel)
For the Rotary Club, a major partner in the project, the initiative represents an opportunity to revitalize a central site that has long been underutilized. “This is a place that has been somewhat neglected in recent years. For us, it was important to have a presence in the heart of the city and to leave a lasting mark,” stated Réal Beauchamp, the Rotary Club’s incoming president. Located near schools, shops, and other amenities, the site is expected to become a popular meeting place, especially for young people. “The children will embrace the space; I’m convinced of it.”
Réal Beauchamp, Rotary member. (Photo credit: Le Citoyen — Ricardo Jr Emmanuel)
Work is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks and continue until the end of the summer, with an opening planned for the start of the school year. Ultimately, the Rotary Space aims to be an accessible, welcoming, and adaptable space, destined to play a key role in the revitalization of the area.
The inauguration of the Rotary Space is planned around the start of the school year in autumn 2026.