Avenue McGill College: A new public square in the heart of downtown

Last updated August 22, 2025

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The transformation of downtown continues with the redevelopment of Avenue McGill College planned for spring 2026. It’s an opportunity to rethink downtown’s image and how one of its most densely populated areas is used.

In recent years, many projects have emerged in the Avenue McGill College area, including the renovation of the Eaton Centre and Place Ville-Marie, the arrival of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) and the redevelopment of Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest.

An imposing pedestrian public square

Beginning in 2026, construction will begin with the repair of underground infrastructures and landscaping work. Eventually, this space will be transformed into an imposing pedestrian public square across its entire surface, between Rue Cathcart and Rue Sherbrooke Ouest.

The new layout will transform the pedestrian experience. Passersby will find themselves in a natural haven in the middle of downtown.

Landscaping upgrades include the planting of nearly 200 trees and several perennials and shrubs. Several relaxation and socialization spots on the square will be an opportunity to add street furniture such as benches and tables. A large fireplace to warm up pedestrians during cold weather and misters in the summertime will enhance the experience of users all year long.

Project location

A central space in the memory of Oscar Peterson

The memory and exceptional contribution of Montréal jazz musician Oscar Peterson will be commemorated in the form of a square named after him.

Place Oscar-Peterson, which will be built in the central area of Avenue McGill College between Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest and Boulevard De Maisonneuve Ouest, will feature a figurative sculptural work, a mural and unique lighting.

The tribute is a testament to the artistic, cultural and social importance that this piano virtuoso still has today, nearly 15 years after his death. Born in 1924 in the southwest of Montreal, Oscar Peterson contributed to the influence of Montréal as a cultural metropolis and was a key figure in the fight against racial inequalities.

A work of art by Valérie Blass, a Montreal-born artist and renowned sculptor from the visual arts community, will also be included in the project. The work is sure to offer viewers a unique and unusual viewing experience.

A space designed in collaboration with the community

In 2018, the city launched a planning and consultation process lasting about 18 months with the population and nearby institutions to learn more about their needs and aspirations.

The new development will address these needs by improving the experience of downtown pedestrians. Several relaxation spaces on the square offer a beautiful view of Mount Royal and showcase the area’s history and culture.

An international urban design competition

The development vision that resulted from this consultation process was the subject of an international multidisciplinary urban design competition launched in October 2019. The winning development concept, by the Civiliti + Mandaworks team (Sweden) and AtkinsRéalis, in collaboration with Lasalle-NHC, UDO Design, Biodiversité Conseil, Lamontagne Consultants and ÉVOQ, was announced in October 2020.