Residents in Drummondville are pushing back against a proposed real estate development at the intersection of Jean-de-Brébeuf Boulevard and De la Commune Street, citing severe concerns over increased traffic congestion and a loss of privacy. The project involves 44 housing units spread across three buildings, each standing two to three stories tall, according to local reports.
Traffic Congestion and Parking Pressures
Local homeowners argue that the high-density build cannot be harmoniously integrated into the existing single-family neighborhood. Guillaume Lavoie, a resident in the area, notes that traffic already backs up heavily to the local stop sign during peak times and occasionally extends further. Lavoie points out that the proposed parking lot containing more than sixty spaces will only worsen the bottleneck.
Privacy and Buffer Zone Concerns
In addition to traffic worries, residents question the effectiveness of privacy measures outlined for the project. François Allard, another neighborhood resident, states that the buildings are too tall for standard privacy screens to be effective, meaning nearby homeowners will inevitably lose their seclusion. Residents also contend that the designated buffer zone between the new structures and existing properties is insufficient.
Zoning Changes and Public Consultation
The development is slated for a plot of land currently undergoing a municipal land-use designation change by the City of Drummondville. City administration hosted a public consultation early in the week specifically to address the file. Municipal officials state they are fully aware of the public’s concerns and confirm that citizen feedback will be factored into the final decision-making process. The developer, Gestion 1139, did not respond to requests for comment prior to publication.
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