Canada/The revitalization of the Alexandre district is back on Sherbrooke's agenda
Sherbrooke is redoubling its efforts to revitalize the Alexandre district, close to downtown. The project has been in the works for several years. This time, the city is launching a survey to find out what its citizens think.
The Alexandre district is located between King Street West and Galt Street West. It contains many residences, as well as businesses and organizations.
It's a direct connection to downtown.
A quote from Karine Godbout, city councillor for the Lac-des-Nations district
In October 2025, a Société de développement commercial (SDC) was set up for downtown Sherbrooke, to animate and energize Wellington Street and the surrounding area.
According to Lac-des-Nations district city councillor Karine Godbout, this avenue was explored for the Alexandre district, but in light of meetings with merchants and all, it wasn't so much an SDC that met their needs.
They have issues specific to their neighborhood. Right now, they have challenges of devitalization, inclusion, equity and social cohabitation that are perhaps different from some of the issues downtown.
Ms. Godbout explains that she's heard from some merchants who are thinking of moving, because of the issues of homelessness and poverty. At the same time, it's a dynamic neighborhood. We've got beautiful parks, an elementary school, and I think there's plenty of room for ideas.
All the same, there are signs that Alexandre Street is continuing to revitalize, renew and renovate, both in terms of its buildings and its businesses.
A quote from Karine Godbout, municipal councillor, Lac-des-Nations district
The public consultation is open online until February1. The aim is to survey not only residents, but also businesses, community organizations and their customers.
Affordability a priority
A few years ago, when the revitalization project was already under discussion, some residents expressed concern about the gentrification of the Alexandre district.
Karine Godbout says she is aware of the issue and is taking it into account.
As we can see, when new buildings are built, rents are very high, and we have a housing crisis. We have to make room, there's room for everyone, for this mix, on the territory. That's very important to me and in our thinking," emphasizes Ms. Godbout.
The first results of this public consultation are scheduled for this summer.
Source: ici.radio-canada.ca/
