Gatineau to force land sale for storm basin, school

Tashi Farmilo

Zone Blanche drainage project was the focus of the October 2 technical meeting at Gatineau’s Maison du Citoyen, where officials detailed plans to upgrade stormwater infrastructure in the rapidly developing area east of Chemin de Chambord, near the Domaine des Vallées.

In the south sector, 5 km of ditch work has already been completed, with 9.2 km more planned in 2025. The north sector presents greater challenges due to unstable soil, wetlands, and protected wooded corridors.

To proceed, the city must acquire a 23,000 m² parcel (lot 4 064 290) for a retention basin and land for a future school under the Centre de services scolaire des Draveurs. After failed negotiations with the landowner, Gatineau council voted 16–4 in favour of expropriation during the October 2 session. An easement for municipal services will also be secured.

If provincial authorisations are granted, construction could begin in 2026.