Quebec City has announced plans to expropriate portions of land owned by IKEA and Décathlon to facilitate the expansion of its tramway system. These details were revealed in a recent decision summary from the executive committee.
Land Acquisition for Tramway Expansion
The city aims to acquire eight parcels of land required for the TramCité project. Specific utility lines and public infrastructures need to be relocated due to the project, necessitating the acquisition of these servitudes for municipal purposes.
Details of Expropriation
- IKEA: The city plans to secure four parcels ranging from 8 to 206 square meters. The total area required is 355.5 square meters.
- Assessment Value: The municipal assessment values IKEA’s land at $17.7 million, equating to $183 per square meter.
- Décathlon: Four parcels, varying from 13 to 1,817 square meters, totaling 2,725.6 square meters, are sought for expropriation.
- Assessment Value: Décathlon’s property, managed by Simard Immobilier, is valued at $26.2 million, or $152 per square meter.
Operational Challenges and Potential Changes
The city has engaged in discussions with landowners and reached agreements authorized by the municipal council last September. However, operational challenges now require formal expropriation procedures to ensure timely access to the necessary land.
Additionally, the city noted that if the TramCité project’s needs change, it may authorize the legal affairs department to withdraw from the expropriation process.
Future Developments
The Chaudière sector, where these properties are located, will also host the tramway garage. Additionally, significant construction will occur for the extension of Mendel Street, which will include a viaduct crossing the railway and escarpment, connecting to the Versant-Nord Boulevard and Pie-XII area.
