The Montreal Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce aims to bring workers back three days a week

As the new school year approaches, the Montreal Chamber of Commerce (CCMM) wants to persuade workers to return to their downtown offices at least three days a week.

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“Our equilibrium point is three days a week. Too early [l’atteindre] In September, but we believe that during the fall, it will stabilize at that number for many companies,” explained Michel LeBlanc, President and CEO of CCMM.

Along the same lines, he wants all workers to return to the office from the beginning of the school year on a part-time basis.

“What we expect is that, as of the fall, we will be 100% of the people who come into the office at least once a week or two,” Mr. LeBlanc said.

However, Montreal has had to undergo greater health restrictions than other major cities, which explains, he says, that the period of telecommuting has been prolonged. He said persuading workers to return to the city center is a major challenge.

“Workers are interested in returning, they see the flaws, especially the isolation that remote work can generate. Mr. LeBlanc noted that the issue of falls would be a question of transportation fluidity.

CCMM announced Monday morning a financial contribution of $2.4 million to support six “creative projects” that will enhance the downtown area. They will be installed in “semi-private” spaces, and therefore publicly accessible, such as the Place Ville-Marie.

“Individually, none of these projects alone will ever justify three days a week. But the fun of being downtown can justify going back three or four days a week.

17 companies submitted bids. The six projects selected were chosen on the basis of their mobility and impact, their geographical distribution, their duration and, in particular, the diversity of experiences offered.

Outdoor meeting rooms, an immersive Montreal river-inspired ride underground, and “delightful” murals will see the light of day between fall 2022 and spring 2023.

“We are pursuing this idea that private spaces should not remain boring and flat. Montreal creators have proposals to make, and if we can facilitate this meeting [avec les propriétaires]”There will be creative projects,” said Mr. LeBlanc.