The work that has taken place over 26 months has resulted in important economic spin-off effects.  The design and build method allowed for constant budget and design adjustments in accordance with project submissions.  With the help of a construction manager, more than 40 lots have been awarded to local entrepreneurs and retailers to work with.  Between 125 and 200 men have worked at some point on the most important construction site in Quebec throughout this period.  Since the completion of the $70 million project, there has been a steady stream of local visitors to the site throughout all four seasons.  It is difficult to calculate the exact economic impact of this new urban infrastructure.  Nevertheless, in light of the local interest the Promenade has generated, municipal and provincial political leaders have chosen to continue the project with a 3 km path towards the west and a new development phase towards the Foulon Beach.  These two projects will consolidate the Promenade’s undeniable economic impact and potential to draw local visitors and tourists.

The bio-treatment technique used by the Irving oil company has influenced the Commission’s planning.  The project was designed with the progressive reuse of treated soils.  This complex soil management process limited the use of new material and the costs implicated therein.  For the soils contaminated by metal at the Irving Quai, the Commission opted for a risk analysis, which allowed for a proposed alternative solution with an environmental follow-up study.  This solution proved to be less costly than the disposal of contaminated soils would have been.

La Promenade will be an exemplary model due to its many elements being rooted in a sustainable approach: marshland restoration, greening of the waterfront, the use of geothermal energy as an energy source for heating and air conditioning in the main building, the use of natural materials, and the on-site plantation of 12 000 trees and 80 000 plants and shrubs reaffirm the project’s underlying ecological principles.

Protecting the riverbank and surrounding lands from land developers was a top priority for the Commission.  The main challenge became the acquisition of land bordering the river.  Thanks to the project’s broad vision, the Commission was able to enrich the public domain and ensure the continuation of the park over many kilometers. 

The social dimension of the project is confirmed by the influx of tens of millions of people of all backgrounds and of all ages.  The multi-purpose setup allows for a diverse set of activities and contributes to the improvement of citizens’ quality of life.  The Commission has made it into a genuine meeting place: an interpretive program and discovery tours contribute to the lively atmosphere. 

There is no doubt that this spot is a cultural destination.   La Station des Quais not only boasts magnificent themed gardens, but acts as a showcase for contemporary art as well.  Six works of art of great caliber have already found a choice spot and contribute to the vibrant cultural scene.