The future Griffintown–Bernard-Landry REM station will not be limited to luxury real estate projects.
A new development by UTILE aims to integrate 285 affordable student housing units into the heart of the neighbourhood.
Named Le Cardinal, the project combines a modern design, a large bicycle parking area, and the restoration of a heritage building. Funded by the SHQ, the City of Montreal, and the Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ, this project demonstrates a commitment to creating an inclusive, accessible living environment focused on sustainable mobility.
A Model for Sustainable Urban Development
Urban development around Montreal's Réseau express métropolitain (REM) is not just about adding condo towers. Increasingly, development is being carried out in a way that addresses pressing social needs.
An excellent example of this approach is the Le Cardinal project, an affordable student residence being built on de l'Inspecteur Street, not far from the future Griffintown–Bernard-Landry REM station.
This project is led by the Unité de travail pour l'implantation de logements étudiants (UTILE), a social economy enterprise known for its expertise in creating non-profit student housing.
With its 285 units spread over 18 floors, Le Cardinal will offer a variety of housing options, from studios to three-bedroom apartments, all at significantly lower rents than market prices.
This initiative directly addresses the challenge of housing accessibility for downtown students while promoting their independence and well-being.
The project came to fruition through a collaborative approach.
These partnerships demonstrate a shared desire to create a balanced and inclusive living environment, going beyond mere construction.
Budget and Project Timeline
The total cost of the Le Cardinal project is estimated at $87.7 million. This amount is distributed among the various partners, each playing a crucial role in its completion:
Société d'habitation du Québec (SHQ): The Government of Quebec, through the SHQ, provided a contribution of $15.2 million. This sum is part of the AccèsLogis Québec housing program and shows state support for this type of non-profit initiative.
City of Montreal: The City invested $6.1 million in the project, highlighting its commitment to addressing the student housing crisis.
Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ: The Fund granted a $16 million loan, which notably served to acquire the land—a major challenge in a booming neighbourhood like Griffintown.
UTILE: The organization itself raised funds to complete the financial package.
Project Timeline and Construction Progress
Construction on the Le Cardinal project began in March 2024, marking a decisive step for the initiative.
According to official announcements, the building is expected to welcome its first tenants in the summer of 2027.
This timeline allows for the project's integration into the neighbourhood's development while respecting the schedules of adjacent construction sites, such as the Griffintown–Bernard-Landry REM station itself.
Beyond its affordability, Le Cardinal was designed to enhance quality of life and sustainable mobility.
Future residents will have access to study spaces, a rooftop terrace, and ample bicycle parking, encouraging the use of active transportation—perfectly aligned with the presence of the REM.
The project's integration into the Griffintown neighbourhood was also carefully considered.
The former rectory of Sainte-Hélène Church, a heritage building, will be redeveloped to offer commercial or social space, benefiting the entire community.
This attention to heritage and the inclusion of green spaces reflect an urban planning approach that is both respectful of history and mindful of the environment.
In short, Le Cardinal is a model of sustainable and social urbanism.
It proves that major transportation projects can become catalysts for quality development that meets the needs of all citizens and promotes a dynamic and diverse living environment.