Montreal’s Missed Opportunity: Why an Open-Water Pool in Lachine is a No-Brainer
Personally, I think Montreal is sitting on a golden opportunity—one that could transform its relationship with its waterways and redefine urban leisure. The idea of an open-water swimming pool in Lachine isn’t just a novelty; it’s a practical, cost-effective solution to a problem the city has long ignored: its underutilized rivers. What makes this particularly fascinating is how other cities, from Zurich to Quebec City, have already embraced this concept, turning their waterfronts into vibrant public spaces. Montreal, an island city surrounded by water, seems oddly disconnected from its greatest natural asset.
One thing that immediately stands out is the absurdity of the situation. Here’s a city with a short, sweltering summer and a population desperate for ways to cool off. Yet, despite being encircled by rivers, there are barely any safe, accessible spots for swimming. The few beaches that exist are either overcrowded or off-limits due to water quality or safety concerns. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a glaring oversight. Montreal could be a leader in urban waterfront innovation, but instead, it’s lagging behind.
The proposed open-water pool in Lachine, with its $500,000 price tag, has been dismissed as too expensive. But in my opinion, this is short-sighted. What many people don’t realize is that this isn’t just about swimming—it’s about reclaiming public space, promoting health, and fostering a sense of community. The project has already cleared environmental and engineering hurdles, and the water quality in Lac St. Louis is excellent. The site is ideal: sheltered from strong currents, with clean water and ample space for roped-off lanes. It’s a ready-made solution waiting to be implemented.
What this really suggests is a deeper issue: a lack of vision. The current administration’s hesitation feels like a missed opportunity to create something meaningful for the city. Yes, $500,000 is an investment, but it’s a fraction of the cost of other municipal projects. And the return? A safer, more accessible way for residents to enjoy their city. It’s not just about swimming—it’s about reimagining how we interact with our environment.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the contrast between Montreal and cities like Copenhagen or Paris. These places have turned their rivers into destinations, with floating pools, docks, and bathing facilities that draw locals and tourists alike. Montreal has the potential to do the same. Fondation Rivières has identified 57 suitable swimming sites in the city, yet only a handful are currently in use. This isn’t just a Lachine issue—it’s a Montreal-wide problem of underutilized resources.
From my perspective, the resistance to this project feels rooted in a fear of change. The ousted boaters, the concerns about cost, the hesitation from local officials—it all points to a reluctance to embrace something new. But if we’re honest, the status quo isn’t working. Montreal’s waterfronts are largely inaccessible, and the city’s few swimming spots are overcrowded. This project could be a turning point, a chance to show that Montreal values its residents’ quality of life.
This raises a deeper question: What kind of city does Montreal want to be? One that prioritizes public access to its natural resources, or one that lets opportunities slip away? The open-water pool in Lachine isn’t just a pool—it’s a statement about the city’s values. It’s about equity, sustainability, and innovation. And with the environmental permit set to expire in two years, time is running out.
In my opinion, the mayors of Montreal and Lachine need to take the plunge—literally and figuratively. The project is affordable, the site is perfect, and the benefits are clear. Summer is short, and the weather is hot. What are they waiting for?
Final Thought:
If Montreal can’t seize this opportunity, it’s not just a missed chance for Lachine—it’s a missed chance for the entire city. This isn’t just about swimming; it’s about reimagining what’s possible when we reconnect with our waterways. Personally, I think Montreal deserves better. Let’s hope its leaders agree.
