Did you know that Parks Canada has built the very first pedestrian roundabout on the Island of Montréal? Since July 2020, cyclists and pedestrians who cross the Lachine Canal path have been able to use the new approaches to the Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier footbridge as well as the first cyclo-pedestrian roundabout on the Island of Montréal.

Redevelopment of the approaches to the George-Étienne-Cartier footbridge

The George-Étienne-Cartier footbridge connects the north and south banks of the canal path and is located halfway between Côte-Saint-Paul lock (Lock No. 4) and the Atwater Market. This popular area welcomes thousands of cyclists and pedestrians every day during the summer months.

In an effort to improve the coexistence and safety of the many visitors, Parks Canada has made changes to the lighting system and the signage, and has built a cyclo-pedestrian roundabout on the south side of the canal. This is the very first cyclo-pedestrian roundabout on the Island of Montréal!

The width of the canal’s shoreline strip available at this location allowed Parks Canada to establish this safe feature while preserving the heritage and environmental elements of the Lachine Canal Historic Site.

How to circulate in a roundabout

Path users need only follow Transport Québec’s traffic rules (French only) and the signage to use the roundabout safely:

• Follow the arrows! Traffic is counterclockwise, to the right.
• Yield to users who are already in the ring. If traffic is heavy, you will have to stop completely until the way is clear.
• Signal your exits. This gesture will contribute to the safety of other users.
• Note that it is forbidden to circulate on the central island.

The Lachine Canal Historic Site has witnessed many Montréal innovations. Parks Canada is proud to continue this tradition by implementing a structure that enhances the safety and experience of its visitors.