Three School Streets are being implemented in Montréal, Quebec, as part of the National Active School Streets Initiative (NASSI / School Streets). Running from 2024 to 2027, NASSI addresses a lack of physical activity in children by improving road safety conditions surrounding schools and increasing rates of active school travel and independent play. 

A permanent School Street has been in place at École primaire Paul-Bruchési since 2024. The project was developed after the school lost part of its yard to a gym expansion, and it transforms Rue de Lanaudière into a child-friendly space by closing it to vehicle traffic, reducing congestion, and creating an area for play, socialization, and exploration.

Designed around the theme of an enchanted forest, the space features playful mushroom sculptures, 45 square metres of planted greenery maintained by students, and a microlibrary to encourage book sharing and creativity. It also includes a variety of seating and is accessible to strollers and people using wheelchairs.

Two additional School Streets – a one-month and a year-long implementation – are also planned at another Montréal school in 2026 and 2027.

This is Canada’s largest-ever School Streets movement: Green Communities Canada is leading a cross-country collaboration between three not-for-profit organizations, four research institutions, and more than 16 community partners spanning six provinces. The program includes matched funding and community in-kind contributions, totaling a $6 million investment in children’s physical activity.

Learn more on our School Streets webpage.