The expansion and redevelopment of Saint-Michel-Archange school, located in the Montérégie region south of Montréal, was commissioned by the CSSDGS in response to a significant increase in student enrolment. The primary objective of the project was to more than double the area of the school building, from 2,872 m² to 6,668 m², while updating its infrastructure to support a collaborative, innovative and sustainable learning environment. The facility now houses state-of-the-art classrooms, a multifunctional library, a two-storey gymnasium, a rooftop terrace and enhanced outdoor spaces. Sustainable features, such as geothermal heating, rainwater retention systems and optimized daylighting, will reduce the school’s long-term environmental impact and create a comfortable space that is conducive to learning.
CIMA+ played a central role in project management, overseeing the design and execution phases amid a series of challenges, including archaeological discoveries, mould contamination and the presence of a high water table. Further complexities stemmed from global supply chain disruptions and inflation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these hurdles, CIMA+ employed comprehensive planning and stakeholder coordination while implementing innovative logistical solutions, including modular classrooms and pre-purchasing strategies, while respecting the schedule and budget.
Overcoming complex site constraints
Surrounded by municipal infrastructure and businesses, the worksite required rigorous access management to maintain the safety of users, along with normal school activities, throughout construction. Archaeological discoveries necessitated extensive excavation, which delayed civil engineering works. Mould contamination in one wing led to urgent remediation measures in order to maintain air quality throughout the building, and the high water table required structural adjustments in order to effectively channel rainwater. The school also draws its drinking water from an artesian well, which needed special protective measures, particularly against disturbances caused by nearby civil engineering works.
Exemplary coordination among stakeholders helped to mitigate these challenges by making it possible for the project team to implement swift, adaptive strategies aimed at preserving safety and protecting the integrity of the site. Regular meetings with the municipality, the school services contractors and the local community ensured smooth project management, while safety corridors and buffer zones were created around the construction site to minimize disruption.
Fostering community vitality
The primary goal of the project was to transform the educational experience for students and staff, but the expansion of Saint-Michel-Archange school also generated major social and economic benefits that have the effect of enhancing the attractiveness of the neighbourhood among prospective residents and promoting its commercial vitality:
- The retractable stage in the multi-purpose hall is ideal for conferences as well as student performances.
- The roof terrace not only provides a place for exploration and enriching outdoor learning opportunities, but can also host community events, giving Saint-Michel residents a greater sense of belonging.
- The redevelopment of the schoolyard has made it possible to accommodate a wider variety of educational and recreational activities, along with a day camp, thus maximizing the use of the facilities year-round.
These improvements directly benefit students, who now enjoy a safer, more inclusive and inspiring day-to-day environment. Ultimately, this project not only meets the area’s current and future educational needs, but also strengthens the social, economic and cultural fabric of the community.