Domtar's proposal to turn downtown parking lot into green space.

Domtar is a pulp-and-paper company located on the intersection of Boulevard de maisonneuve and Rue de Bleury. There are currently three outdoor parking lots occupying these roadway corners. (see figure) Domtar purchased the land next to their building from Parking Montreal last year. They proposed a green park on this site, which is for their employees and will be accessible by the public as well. The idea of the project is to bring in species of trees that are actually used in their products. The idea is not only symbolic but it is also to provide a place where people can relax and enjoy a bit of nature. They will also renovate the Place des Arts metro entrance located on the northeast corner of the property.

A spokesman for the city of Montreal indicated that there are currently 800,000 square feet of vacant lots in downtown area between Guy and Amherst Sts, south of Sherbrooke St. 80% of that land is being used for parking. Last year the mayor claimed the parking lots 'shamefully disfigure' Montreal's downtown core. And he hopes Domtar's initiative will encourage other business to take similar steps and revitalize the area.