Greenery as a factor shaping planning on the example of a selected part of Montreal

Aneta Biała

doi:10.37190/arc250410

Abstract

In today’s dynamic urban context, where cities play a crucial role in shaping residents’ quality of life, the role of greenery as a determinant of public space becomes an essential issue. The author focused on analyzing the impact of greenery on shaping urban planning using Montreal as an example, with particular emphasis on Mount Royal as a key element influencing spatial planning and city development.

The study examined various aspects of this issue, including both historical and cultural contexts, as well as contemporary planning strategies related to integrating greenery into urban structure. The analysis demonstrates how natural landscape elements can determine urban spatial development.

2025

4(84)

Aneta Biała*

Greenery as a factor shaping urban planning:

the case of selected areas in Montreal

DOI: 10.37190/arc250410

Published in open access. CC BY NC ND license

Abstract

In today’s dynamic urban context, where cities play a crucial role in shaping the quality of life for residents, the role of greenery as a determinant

of public space has become a signicant issue. This article focuses on analyzing the impact of greenery on shaping the urban fabric using Montreal

as a case study, with particular emphasis on Mount Royal as a key element inuencing spatial planning and city development. The author explores

various aspects of this issue, including historical and cultural contexts, as well as practical implications. The genesis and development of the city

are presented, along with the role that Mount Royal has played in the urbanization process. The analysis also encompasses urban planning strategies

that focus on preserving and enhancing green spaces, such as parks and recreational areas, as well as sustainable city development. By delving into

the various aspects of greenery presence in Montreal, including urban planning, park distribution, and social initiatives related to green spaces, this

article aims to understand the complexity of the relationship between greenery and the shaping of public spaces in the context of this Canadian city.

The analysis sheds light on existing challenges related to maintaining and developing green areas, while also highlighting the benets of eectively

utilizing greenery as a key element of urban planning.

Key words: greenery, urban development, sustainable city, public space

Introduction

Greenery has accompanied humanity since ancient times

and has been the subject of numerous studies related to its

role in shaping urban spaces (Wolch, Byrne and Newell

2014; Wendel, Zarger and Mihelcic 2012; Tołwiński 1963;

Gyurkovich, Sotoca 2018). Its role in cities has evolved

over dierent historical epochs – initially serving practical

functions, later becoming a decorative element, and even-

tually combining both aspects (Gyurkovich, Sotoca 2018).

Nowadays, there is an increasing emphasis on the necessity

of protecting and developing green areas in cities, as well

as recognizing their positive impact. This phenomenon is

linked not only to improving the natural environment in

urbanized areas but also to providing residents with places

for recreation and relaxation in environments conducive to

their well-being. Gradually, people are also becoming more

and more aware of environmental issues and environmental

conservation. Urban green spaces play a signicant role in

urban planning as they are important indicators of quality

of life. They have a positive impact on the urban ecolog

ical environment, social and economic development, and

the physical and mental health of residents, both adults and

children (Markevych et al. 2017).

In contemporary metropolises, greenery has become an

essential component of the city’s spatial structure, contribut-

ing to a healthy living environment alongside other factors.

Contemporary green spaces, in addition to their aesthetic

and recreational functions, play a crucial role in carbon ab-

sorption, temperature regulation, and the reduction of urban

heat islands, which is of direct signicance in the context of

cities adapting to climate change (Markevych et al. 2017).

In the context of contemporary urban movement and its

consequences, greenery becomes a signicant part of res-

idential areas in large conurbations (Virtudes 2016). Some-

times, especially in the historic centres of large cities, there

is little greenery, and public spaces are dominated by paved

squares and streets (Whitford, Ennos, and Handley 2001).

This phenomenon occurs both in charming European cities

* ORCID: 0000-0002-8967-046X. Faculty of Architecture, Poz-

nan University of Technology, Poland, e-mail: aneta.biala@put.poznan.pl

110 Aneta Biała

and in other parts of the world. Therefore, there is a need to

achieve a balance between urban areas and nature, making

the integration of greenery an essential element of spatial

planning in cities (Kus, Felski 2018). The city’s image, an-

alysed through the structure of green spaces, is shaped by

various parks and green areas. These diverse forms include

both continuous and linear green corridors and areas, as

well as points with various functions, investments, and lev-

els of development. Street trees, avenues, and even individ-

ual trees or ower beds are also important aspects of green

perception. The urban layout is structured by greenery, serv-

ing a number of functions, including connecting, dividing,

blocking, isolating, obscuring, masking, as well as decora-

tive (Virtudes 2016; Kowalska-Koczwara et al. 2021). Ur-

ban green areas and parks often become distinguishing fea-

tures, identity elements, and symbols of the city.

Methods

The aim of this article is to analyze the historical develop-

ment of green spaces in Montreal and examine their role in

shaping public spaces in selected areas of the city. The core

objective of the research was to assess the impact of green

spaces on residents’ quality of life and the changes that have

occurred in these areas as urban development progressed.

Additionally, the analysis aimed to identify how urban green

spaces contribute to the spatial layout and urban structures

of the city. The research was divided into two main parts.

The rst part included a review of the literature and docu-

mentation related to the development of urban green spaces

in Montreal, considering both historical and contemporary

changes in their function and distribution. Historical doc-

uments, urban plans, and architectural studies were exam-

ined to trace the evolution of green spaces from the city’s

founding to modern-day urban green solutions. This section

aimed to identify key stages that inuenced the formation

and development of green spaces, as well as to understand

how urbanization has impacted these changes. The second

part of the research involved a detailed analysis of selected

districts in Montreal: Petite Bourgogne, Grintown, Mille

Carré Doré, Centre Ville, Vieux Montréal, and Town of Mont

Royal (Fig. 1). These districts were chosen based on their

di verse urban structure, degree of green space development,

and historical signicance. This study aimed to assess the

im pact of green spaces on the quality of public space and

explore how the presence of greenery shapes the functions

of these areas within an urban context.

To guide the research more precisely, the following re-

search questions were posed:

1. What changes in the distribution and structure of green

spaces have taken place in Montreal over the years, and how

have they inuenced the shaping of public spaces?

Fig. 1. Study area

(elaborated by A. Biała)

Il. 1. Obszar opracowania

(oprac. A. Biała)

Greenery as a factor shaping urban planning: the case of selected areas in Montreal 111

covered Mount Royal in the 16

century, it has stood out as

a unique landscape feature and a symbolic point of refer-

ence for residents and visitors, which became particularly

noticeable from the mid-19

century, when major urban

developments such as the creation of cemeteries, parks, and

monumental buildings emphasized its morphological spec-

icity. Located in the heart of Montreal, Mount Royal has

been a signicant factor shaping the city’s territory (Seline

1983; Marsan 1981; Debarbieux 1998).

The rst signs of green areas began to appear in Montreal

in the 1

half of the 19

century, but their signicance and

popularity noticeably increased in the 2

half of the centu-

ry (Dagenais 2008). Squares, public plazas, and large parks

began to emerge throughout the city. Although they were

natural enclaves, they were primarily cultural spaces, reect-

ing many social values and ideals. Their creation aimed not

only to beautify the cities and promote their image but also

to de monstrate the economic progress of a given location, its

nan cial stability, and proper management. The concept of

park development envisioned them as pleasant and tranquil

places where people could walk, rest, and contemplate na-

ture. As Montreal grew and expanded, green spaces became

a way for municipal authorities to assert their presence on

the territory and extend the reach of urban inuence. Since

the 1890s, especially after 1900, public debates on the de-

velopment of parks and green areas have intensied (Dage-

nais 2008). The earlier concept of parks as city adornments

evolved towards a social need, indicating a growing demand

for access to green and recreational areas. Inuenced by the

reform movement focused on improving the quality of life

in industrial cities, the authorities of Montreal committed

to continuing the development of a network of recreational

spaces, especially in working-class neighbourhoods. Initial-

ly, parks were mainly perceived as places for aesthetic strolls

and contemplation, but their increasing popularity led to

them being viewed as venues for various forms of recreation,

attracting diverse groups of users. Consequently, city author-

ities began to equip parks with additional cultural elements,

This question sought to understand how the city’s de-

velopment, particularly its urbanization, has aected green

areas and their placement in public spaces.

2. What are the relationships between green spaces and

urban structures in selected Montreal districts, and how

have these relationships evolved over time?

This question focused on examining the interaction be-

tween urban green spaces and the built environment, ana-

lyzing how these elements inuence each other and what

changes have occurred in their relationship over time.

The research emphasizes the importance of green spaces

as elements that contribute to the sustainable development

of cities. In the context of Montreal, the analysis provides

va luable insights into the challenges and opportunities relat-

ed to the preservation and creation of urban green spaces, as

well as their role in mitigating the negative impacts of ur-

ba nization. This article attempts to summarize and organize

existing studies on urban green spaces in Montreal, high-

lighting key issues related to managing green spaces in rap-

idly growing cities.

Historical background and architectural

and town-planning development

Montreal, the largest city in the province of Quebec,

Ca nada, stands out not only for its rich culture and history

but also for its fascinating architecture, which has evolved

over decades. The city is located on the Island in the south-

western area of Quebec, at the conuence of the Ottawa and

Saint Lawrence rivers, encompassing approximately 315 km

of coastline (City of Montréal 2008). Being a modern and

densely populated urban agglomeration, it has many spatial

features inuenced not only by urban planning solutions but

also by the city’s geographical location. Riverbank ecosys-

tems and islands constitute signicant sources of biological

diversity. Green spaces account for 13% of the total area of

the city, including the over 200-hectare Mount Royal, which

the city commemorates in its name (City of Montréal 2008;

Ville de Montreal 2018; Seline 1983).

The territorial expansion of Montreal is a fascinating

is sue that illustrates changes in the urban structure and its

im pact on surrounding areas (Fig. 2). In 1642, settlers led

by Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance

founded the settlement of Ville-Marie on the riverbank,

surrounded by the mountain, which became the nucleus of

today’s city (Seline 1983; Marsan 1981). The city began to

grow intensively during the industrialization period, espe-

cially in the 19

century. This period saw a great population

growth, and the industry and infrastructure development

prompted urban expansion. The initial stages of develop-

ment mainly focused around the central commercial and in-

dustrial areas. With Montreal’s population expansion, it ex-

tended its boundaries, incorporating surrounding areas and

villages, eventually encompassing all regions of the moun-

tain. In the initial phases of expansion, the city focused on

maintaining harmony between the urban structure and the

natural environment. In the context of urban development,

natural environmental elements, such as Mount Royal and

the Saint Lawrence River, played a crucial role in shaping

and expanding the city’s territory. Since Jacques Cartier dis-

Fig. 2. Montreal and its first transformations (elaborated by A. Biała,

based on https://imtl.org/image/cartes/small_scan083.jpg, 2024)

Il. 2. Montreal i jego pierwsze transformacje (oprac. A. Biała,

na podstawie: https://imtl.org/image/cartes/small_scan083.jpg, 2024)

112 Aneta Biała

thorities have turned their attention to sustainable develop-

ment, emphasizing environmental protection and creating

additional green areas. In 2005, Montreal adopted its rst

Sustainable Development Strategic Plan, which represents

a collective commitment to making sustainability the foun-

dation for the city’s future development. One of the plan’s

objectives was to protect biodiversity, natural habitats, and

green spaces, including increasing the area of protected nat-

ural habitats to 8% of the total area of the island under the

city’s jurisdiction (City of Montreal 2008). With its unique

topography and diverse landscape, Montreal began to regain

its reputation as a city where urban greenery harmoniously

coexists with development. Parks, gardens, and riverside

promenades create picturesque landscapes, attracting resi-

dents to use green spaces. Currently, the City of Montreal

plays a signicant role in promoting biodiversity initiatives

internationally (City of Montreal 2008).

In the research history of cities, the analysis of urban en-

vironments often remains overshadowed (Dagenais 2008).

Most scientists focused primarily on studying natural eco-

systems rather than the human environment. Cities were

con sidered less signicant in scientic research because

re searchers were primarily focused on eorts to halt envi-

ronmental degradation and condemn the excessive exploita-

tion of natural resources in the name of market economy.

In their eyes, cities were seen as enemies of nature, places

that harmed the surrounding environment. Although today

the relationships between social and natural environments

are the subject of intensive research by environmental his-

torians, studies on cities remain relatively neglected. In re-

cent years, ideas related to how people interact with their

surrounding nature have developed and extended beyond

activist and political aspects. Research on the history of

cities from an environmental perspective now requires an

analysis of the relationships between people and natural el-

ements, taking into account the dynamic changes occurring

on both sides of this equation. As historian Geneviève Mas-

sard-Guilbaud (Dagenais 2008) explains, the environmen-

tal approach to history rejects the concept that humans are

external observers of nature, instead accepting the idea of

their integral inclusion in the biosphere, from social units to

entire ecosystems.

Scaling space through greenery modelling

in selected examples

The urban layout of downtown Montreal is character-

ized by a grid of streets running perpendicular or parallel to

Mount Royal Park, creating a regular pattern with geometric

designs. This urban structure is partly inspired by the moun-

tain, located to the west of downtown, which is a dominant

feature of the city’s landscape (Fig. 3). Its presence not only

provides a picturesque backdrop but also inuences the orga-

nization of the urban space. The central area of Montreal fea-

tures a unique urban layout that has evolved over the years.

It is centered around two main axes – Rue Sainte-Catherine

and Rue Sherbrooke (Lord 2016) – serving as the commer-

cial, cultural, and business hub of the city. Rue Sainte-Cath-

erine, one of the main shopping thoroughfares, serves as the

primary east-west axis, oering numerous shops, boutiques,

such as playground equipment, picnic tables, pavilions, etc.,

emphasizing the change in perception of these green spaces

as functional recreational centres rather than merely aesthetic

natural havens (Dagenais 2008).

Since the establishment of the settlement, Mount Royal

has played an important role for its inhabitants, who often

went there for picnics or to enjoy the scenery (Debarbieux

1998). In the 1870s, eorts began to shape the area to meet

the social expectations of that time. It was then decided to

create two cemeteries and a public park on the mountain’s

grounds. This was aimed at preserving the natural heritage

but also providing residents with a place for rest and recre-

ation. Frederick Law Olmsted, a renowned landscape archi-

tect and the creator of Central Park in New York, was ap-

pointed to design this area (Debarbieux 1998). His creative

approach to park planning facilitated the harmonious inte-

gration of the mountain terrain into the urban fabric, while

emphasizing its uniqueness. Olmsted, staying true to his

ethical and aesthetic principles, adapted the concept of En-

glish landscape to the specics of the American context. He

introduced articial elements, while striving to make them

almost invisible in the natural environment. This rst en-

counter with diverse topography in his career prompted him

to reject the idea of a traditional park in favour of revealing

the “genius loci” – the characteristic spirit of that particular

place (Debarbieux 1998).

The increase in the city’s population necessitated the in-

cor poration of green areas into central city areas, providing

re sidents with access to parks and recreational areas. In

the post-war period, the phenomenon of suburbanization

emerged, where residents moved to the suburbs in search

of more space and tranquility. As part of this process, urban

greenery became a key element of spatial planning. The cre-

ation of new neighbourhoods involved the consideration of

green spaces, parks, and promenades to maintain a balance

between urban elements and the natural landscape. However,

due to intense and somewhat uncontrolled city development

between 1986 and 1994, half of the forests were built upon,

and between 1994 and 2001, another 750 ha of greenery

were lost (Oljemark 2002), ultimately losing 18% of green-

ery by 2005 (Pham et al. 2011). The city’s policy at the time

did not sit well with the residents, who placed more impor-

tance on maintaining existing green areas and

creating new

recreational spaces in the city. The inuence of residents on

the decision of city authorities regarding green areas can

be exerted through various mechanisms, including partic-

ipation in public consultations, petitions, actions of social

groups and non-governmental organization (NGO), and en-

gagement in electoral processes (Burstein 2003). Residents

often engage in active actions to express their opinions and

demands regarding the protection of green areas and the

development of recreational spaces in their area. This high-

lights the signicant role of society in shaping municipal

policies concerning the natural environment and recreation,

as well as the need for active dialogue between residents

and authorities in the decision-making process regarding

public spaces.

In the face of challenges related to overcrowding and

main taining quality of life, pressure from public opinion re-

pre sented by the Green Coalition on green issues, city au-

Greenery as a factor shaping urban planning: the case of selected areas in Montreal 113

cafes, and restaurants. It is also a venue for various urban

events, festivals, and parades, taking over this function from

Notre-Dame Street in the late 19

and early 20

centuries.

Meanwhile, Rue Sherbrooke, located slightly further north,

is known for its upscale shops, elegant restaurants, and cul-

tural institutions, such as museums and art galleries. The

central areas of Montreal also feature diverse architecture,

including both modern skyscrapers and historical buildings,

adding to the region’s unique character. Additionally, the

historic district of Vieux-Montreal occupies a central place,

where charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and

atmospheric squares can be found. Mount Royal is accessi-

ble via numerous pedestrian paths and bike trails, integrating

its surroundings with the city’s urban planning (Lord 2016).

Despite the dense and compact urban development, the

streets in the analysed area of the city stand out for their

abundance of urban greenery. The largest concentration of

parks and street greenery is located along the St Lawrence

River in the Old Montreal area covered by the Old Montreal

Protection and Enhancement Plan, as well as in the area be-

tween Rue Notre Dame and Sainte Antoine O. Streets, which

corresponds to the Grintown district (Fig. 4). Thanks to the

Special Planning Program (SPP) for the Grintown area,

municipal actions in the public space have focused on trans-

forming social spaces, prioritizing the needs of residents

over vehicular trac. The project aimed to create eight new

green areas and public spaces. The total budget for public

investments in this regard amounted to 242 million dollars,

which were allocated for land acquisition for parks, the de-

velopment of existing parks and public spaces, street mod-

ernization, the purchase of certain signicant buildings, as

well as their revitalization and improvement of cultural func-

tions (City of Montreal 2017).

An interesting initiative is the green plaza that is part of

the Bonaventure Expy Street, created as part of the Bo na-

venture Project (Fig. 5). By demolishing the elevated sec -

tion of the highway and replacing it with a ground-level

boulevard, dedicated blocks will provide high-quality, safe,

and user-friendly public spaces between the streets of Wel-

lington and Notre-Dame (City of Montreal 2017).

The construction of the Ville-Marie highway also had

a negative impact on the Quartier International area, which

was signicantly damaged as a result of its construction.

Therefore, through the Special Planning Program (SPP),

eorts were made to repair and rebuild the public space in

this central part of the city. It was decided to combine the

idealistic modernist model, based on multi-layered vertical-

ity, with the typomorphological ideal of continuity of public

space both at the ground level as well as above and below

it. The aim was to create alternative pedestrian routes that

would harmoniously blend into the existing urban fabric,

connecting streets and sidewalks with underground urban

spaces. The remaining streets are characterized by an abun-

dance of street trees. City parks, cultural institutions, and

streets surrounded by greenery create a ohesive space that

allows residents to maintain a balance between urban life

and the natural environment. This symbiosis between the

downtown area and Mount Royal is a key characteristic of

Montreal, highlighting its uniqueness and attractiveness as

a place to live and work (City of Montreal 2017) (Fig. 6).

Fig. 3. Spatial configuration map of greenery

(elaborated by A. Biała, based on https://www.google.com/maps, 2024)

Il. 3. Mapa przestrzennej konfiguracji zieleni

(oprac. A. Biała, na podstawie: https://www.google.com/maps, 2024)

Fig. 4. Spatial configuration map of greenery

(elaborated by A. Biała, based on https://www.google.com/maps , 2024)

Il. 4. Mapa przestrzennej konfiguracji zieleni

(oprac. A. Biała, na podstawie: https://www.google.com/maps 2024)

Fig. 5. Bonaventure Project – replacing the existing viaduct

with a new surface level urban boulevard

(elaborated by A. Biała, based on https://www.google.com/maps2024)

Il. 5. Bonaventure Project – zastąpienie istniejącego wiaduktu

nowym, naziemnym bulwarem miejskim

(oprac. A. Biała, na podstawie: https://www.google.com/maps, 2024)

114 Aneta Biała

Urban analysis of downtown Montreal reveals the sig-

nicant impact that natural landscape elements, including

Mount Royal, have on the city’s structure. The street lay-

out in downtown Montreal, characterised by a regular grid

of perpendicular and parallel arteries, reects the inuence

Fig. 6. Streets of Montreal (photos by A. Biała, 2023)

Il. 6. Ulice Montrealu (fot. A. Biała, 2023)

of Mount Royal, which serves as a dominant landscape fea -

ture aecting urban spatial organization. Historical and con -

temporary urban elements, such as Rue Sainte-Catherine and

Rue Sherbrooke, play key roles in commerce, culture, and

bu siness, dening the central areas of the city. On the one

hand, the regularity and geometric patterns in the urban lay-

out result from adaptation to the topography and function of

Mount Royal. On the other hand, this spatial planning fosters

dynamic development in commerce and cul ture. Contempo-

rary initiatives, such as the revitalization of Grintown and

the creation of the green square as part of the Bonaventure

Project, demonstrate a commitment to enhancing public

spaces and integrating greenery with urban design, un

der-

scoring the importance of urban greenery in improving res-

idents’ quality of life. Additionally, the negative impacts of

the Ville-Marie Expressway on the Quartier Internatio nal

area, which have been mitigated by the Special Planning

Prog ram, highlight the signicance of rebuilding and adapt-

ing public spaces in the context of urban modernization.

New urban solutions, such as multilayered verticality and

the integration of underground spaces, emphasize the eort

to harmoniously incorporate modern functions into the ex-

isting urban fabric.

As shown in Table 1, Montreal actively strives to improve

the quality of the natural environment through various ini-

tiatives, ranging from strategic municipal programs to local

community eorts and student-led projects. The city has ad-

opted an ambitious plan called the Montréal 2030 Strategic

Plan for Sustainable Development, which includes invest-

ments in the development of green spaces, increasing park

areas, and promoting public transportation and sustainable

modes of transportation. Under this plan, the city takes ac-

tions to increase the number of trees by regularly planting

new seedlings in selected urban areas, contributing to air

quality improvement and enhancing the aesthetics of the

place. Additionally, it continually invests in the development

of existing city parks and the creation of new recreational

areas, which helps improve the quality of life for residents

by encouraging outdoor activities and relaxation in a natural

environment (AIPH 2024).

Local communities and students from various universi-

ties engage in volunteer activities aimed at nurturing existing

green areas, whether it is by removing litter, planting plants,

or taking care of city parks. Students conduct research and

educational projects related to environmental protection,

promoting ecological awareness in the local community and

taking actions to improve green areas. As shown in Table 1,

Montreal undertakes a wide range of initiatives aimed at im-

proving the natural environment and increasing green spaces

in the city. These actions include both overall citywide and

neighbourhood-specic strategic programs, as well as active

involvement of the local community and students.

In the context of Montreal’s urban greenery, the role of

autonomous district units is a crucial factor in shaping the

landscape and distribution of green spaces throughout the

city. One of the most distinctive examples is the Mont-Roy-

al district, whose creation was directly linked to the rapid

development of Montreal in the early 20

century. How-

ever, this dynamic urban growth encountered signicant

topographical barriers, such as Mont Royal and the Saint

Greenery as a factor shaping urban planning: the case of selected areas in Montreal 115

Project name Project program

Programs at the city-wide level

Montréal 2030 Strategic Plan

2023–2030

The program seeks to speed up the shift towards ecological sustainability. This is achieved by prioritizing

biodiversity and green areas in decision-making processes and enhancing city practices through

incorporating the Climate Test and conducting gender-based intersectional analysis (GBA+) (AIPH 2024)

The Corridor écologiuqe

Darlington project

2020

This urban route will connect Mount Royal to the Hippodrome and the Outremont campus,

facilitating movement for both wildlife and people (Ouellet 2024)

Le Grand parc de l’Ouest

2023–2030

This project encompasses 3000 hectares designated for the creation of green spaces in the eastern part

of the island (Lau 2020)

Montreal’s Green Revival

2021

This plan outlines the city’s vision and priorities for revitalizing its expansive parks and natural areas

while promoting an active lifestyle for both current and future residents of Montreal. The plan consists

of four main components: protecting and connecting green spaces, enhancing access to water to strengthen

the island’s identity, improving the accessibility and resilience of Mount Royal, and promoting

year-round activity through a variety of recreational options and updates to sports facilities.

To drive Montreal’s environmental renewal, the Plan is organized around four pillars: Green Montreal,

Blue Montreal, Summit Montreal, and Active Montreal (City of Montreal 2021)

Local programs

The Old Montreal Protection

and Enhancement Plan

2013–2017

The aim of the program is to enhance the quality of life for residents by creating a better environment

for daily living, as well as preserving and promoting the cultural and historical heritage of the area

(City of Montreal 2017)

Special Planning Program (SPP)

for the Griffintown Area

2013–2030

The program is based on the redevelopment of existing public spaces, including redesigning over

10 kilometers of streets, and a property acquisition program aimed at creating eight new green areas

and public spaces (City of Montreal 2017)

Bonaventure Project

2011–2017

Replacing the existing Bonaventure viaduct highway, constructed in 1966, with a new surface-level

urban boulevard named Boulevard Robert-Bourassa (City of Montreal 2017)

Green Marine

2007

Green Marine is a comprehensive and inclusive initiative committed to enhancing environmental

performance beyond what is mandated by regulations. It upholds rigorous standards and promotes

transparency throughout its processes (Port of Montreal 2024)

Quartier des spectacles (QDS)

2002–

A strategy for green urbanization has been formulated in partnership with urban ecology experts

to address the impacts of climate change. This plan will be executed through initiatives focused

on enhancing green infrastructure, facilitating university research support, and organizing culturally

relevant programs (City of Montreal 2017)

Quartier international

de Montréal (QIM)

1997–2004

The redevelopment of the vicinity surrounding Victoria Square and the Palais des congrès de Montréal

entails various initiatives. These include the partial covering of the Ville-Marie expressway,

the construction and reconfiguration of public spaces, and the expansion or construction

of key buildings in the vicinity (City of Montreal 2017)

Bassins du Nouveau Havre

2008

The development strategy centres on enhancing the remnants of the former Lachine Canal pools,

formerly crucial components of Montreal’s inner port. It prioritizes sustainable development

approaches like rainwater harvesting, minimizing traffic density, and optimizing building efficiency.

This encompasses the establishment of Bassin-à-Bois Park and Bassin-à-Gravier Park,

Plac des Arrimeurs, and the implementation of a bioretention pond for collecting rainwater

(City of Montreal 2017)

Mount Royal enhancement plan

1992

Preserving and improving Mount Royal; ensuring accessibility and hospitality on the mountain;

establishing conducive circumstances for the protection and enhancement of Mount Royal

(City of Montreal 2009)

Social initiatives

Biodiversity enhancement project

in HEC Montréal

2021

The objective is to conserve and augment the biodiversity of ecosystems situated in the peripheral zones

of the school, situated within the Mount Royal heritage area. A series of interventions has been proposed,

encompassing the introduction of new arboreal and shrub species, safeguarding extant plant species

and pollinators, and implementing landscape modifications directed towards enhancing spatial quality

(HEC Montreal 2022)

200 Urban Gardens Project

2020

Through the establishment of 200 Urban Gardens, the objective is to establish an interconnected network

of green spaces that prioritize equity and serve multiple functions, fostering a culture of sustainability

across Montreal. The program seeks to transform neglected parcels of land into vibrant gardens,

revitalizing them to enhance the well-being of residents (McDevitt 2021)

Table 1. Green programs in city of Montreal (elaborated by A. Biała)

Tabela 1. Programy zieleni w mieście Montreal (oprac. A. Biała)

116 Aneta Biała

Lawrence River. These natural features limited the city’s ex-

pansion to the east and west, signicantly impacting the de-

velopment of transportation infrastructure, particularly rail-

ways. The inability to directly connect the city centre with

the areas located west of Mont Royal posed a serious chal-

lenge to urban development. In response to these diculties,

Montreal authorities undertook a costly but strategically es-

sential project: the construction of a tunnel beneath Mont

Royal (Fig. 7). This tunnel enabled the connection of the

city centre with the western part of the island, leading to an

increase in the attractiveness and value of land in that area.

Following these changes, and initiated by Canadian North-

ern Railway, the suburban district of Mont-Royal (TMR)

was established in the early 1910s. The creation of this dis-

trict not only inuenced Montreal’s urban development but

also signicantly contributed to the shaping of green urban

spaces in this part of the city (Zarabi et al. 2016).

ects the inuence of landscape architecture and urban plan-

ning principles, in accordance with the principles of the City

Beautiful and Garden City movements. The district com-

bines three dierent planning concepts: a grid plan, diagonal

boulevards from the City Beautiful movement, and a cur-

vilinear street pattern proposed by Frederick Law Olmsted

(Zarabi et al. 2016). The area mainly consists of residential

buildings, including both small single-family houses and

apartment complexes, hence the street grid was intentionally

tilted to maximize sunlight exposure. Businesses, schools,

and churches are located along strategic arteries, and the dis-

trict’s historical character is evident in both the main streets

and avenues and in the urban structure and numerous green

spaces. The combination of low-density residential devel-

opment with lush vegetation gives this suburb the charac-

teristic appearance of an urban park. At the heart of the ra-

dial city plan is the railway station and public square, where

two main avenues and the railway line converge. Parks

and open recreational spaces in this area are connected by

concentric roads, forming a winding, enclosed loop layout

within a 1 km radius (Fig. 8). Additionally, winding streets

enriched with greenery and diverse plantings complement

the area.

Urban greenery in Mont-Royal, which includes 30 parks

and over 70 other green spaces, plays a crucial role in en-

hancing the quality of life for its residents (Zarabi et al.

2016). The deliberate arrangement of green areas, combined

with residential and public spaces, fosters social integration

and supports the health and well-being of the community.

The fact that there is at least one tree per resident under-

scores the commitment to providing access to greenery and

its benets in everyday life. The layout of parks and open

recreational spaces in Mont-Royal, designed with concen-

tric roads and winding streets, creates a cohesive network

that encourages an active lifestyle and social interaction.

This approach to public space planning may serve as an in-

spiration for other cities aiming to develop sustainable and

functional urban areas. In summary, Mont-Royal exempli-

es the eective integration of greenery with urban plan-

ning, oering a model for future urban projects. It highlights

the importance of incorporating natural elements into urban

design to achieve sustainable development and enhance res-

idents’ quality of life in urban environments.

Conclusion

Based on the conducted research, it can be concluded

that urban greenery plays a signicant and multifaceted role

in shaping the urban structure of the historic parts of Mon-

treal, particularly evident in the studied districts of the city.

Historical analysis revealed that, especially during the early

phases of intense urbanization, the city’s development led to

substantial neglect and reduction of green areas. During this

period, the emphasis on infrastructure and urban expansion

resulted in the degradation of natural green spaces. Howev-

er, with the growth of ecological awareness and local com-

Fig. 7. Town of Mont Royal in relations to Mont Royal Tunnel

and central district of Montreal

(elaborated by A. Biała, based on Zarabi et al. 2016)

Il. 7. Miasto Mont Royal w relacji do tunelu Mont Royal i centrum

Montréalu, 1912 (oprac. A. Biała, na podstawie: Zarabi et al. 2016)

Fig. 8. Spatial configuration map of greenery of Mount Royal

(elaborated by A. Biała, based on https://www.google.com/maps 2024)

Il. 8. Mapa rozplanowania zieleni w Mount Royal

(oprac. A. Biała, na podstawie: https://www.google.com/maps 2024)

Greenery as a factor shaping urban planning: the case of selected areas in Montreal 117

munity pressures concerning quality of life, Montreal began

to take actions aimed at restoring green areas and integrat-

ing them into the urban fabric.

The timeline presented in Figure 9, showing key deci-

sions related to urban green spaces, highlights that despite

the degradation of greenery during periods of rapid city

de velopment, eorts were made to protect and preserve

areas like Mount Royal Park, which has maintained its sig-

nicance throughout the city’s history. A noticeable shift

in Montreal’s urban policy occurred after 2005, leading to

the introduction of numerous pro-environmental programs

aimed at revitalizing and increasing the accessibility of

green spaces. These initiatives include ambitious green in-

fra structure development plans, which focus not only on

restoring damaged areas but also on reinforcing them as

key elements of the city’s urban structure. This shift reects

a broader trend of adapting cities to contemporary challeng-

es, including climate change, air quality improvement, and

the reduction of urban heat islands. Natural landscape fea-

tures such as Mount Royal and the Saint Lawrence River

have historically played a pivotal role in shaping Montre-

al’s spatial development and continue to inuence the city’s

urban layout. These elements, beyond their aesthetic value,

have served as natural constraints, guiding the growth and

distribution of the city’s infrastructure. Contemporary ur

ban planning in Montreal increasingly incorporates these

features, integrating green spaces as an essential compo-

nent of urbanization processes.

This research also demonstrates that urban greenery in

central Montreal signicantly enhances the quality of public

spaces, providing areas for recreation and social integration.

Additionally, the analysis of the relationship between green

spaces and urban development conrms that modern urban

planning is increasingly driven by sustainable principles. In

this context, greenery serves not only aesthetic functions

but also plays vital social and ecological roles. The ndings

emphasize the necessity of further integrating urban green-

ery into the city’s development strategies, not only for its

aesthetic and recreational benets but also as a crucial el-

ement in ensuring sustainable development, environmental

protection, and improving the quality of life for residents.

The pro-environmental initiatives introduced since 2005

position Montreal as an exemplary city that is progressively

adapting to contemporary urban challenges and recognizing

the growing importance of green spaces within its sustain-

able development strategy.

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