New justice complex in Montreal to house four federal courts by 2027

It will feature modern designs that will complement Old Montreal's architectural landscape

New justice complex in Montreal to house four federal courts by 2027

Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) announced the construction of a new Federal Justice Complex in Montréal, set to house four federal courts by 2027.

Minister of Public Services and Procurement Jean-Yves Duclos revealed the plans for the complex, which will include the Federal Court of Appeal, the Federal Court, the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada, the Tax Court of Canada, and the Courts Administration Service (CAS).

The new justice complex will feature modern architectural designs that complement the historical and architectural landscape of Old Montréal. PSPC said Canadians can expect enhanced access to justice by introducing secure, accessible, and digitally advanced facilities. The project aims for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold and WELL Silver standards, focusing on sustainable development.

Minister Duclos highlighted the benefits of the new facilities, stating, “With modern, secure and accessible facilities, this new justice complex will improve access to justice for Canadians and preserve judicial independence. Meeting high environmental standards, this project demonstrates the importance our government places on our workers.”

Darlene Carreau, chief administrator and CEO of the Courts Administration Service added, “For years to come, this new, modern, accessible, and secure judicial complex will enable the four federal Courts to facilitate access to justice and better serve Canadians.”

The building will be constructed on a 2,025 m² site acquired in 2020 from the City of Montréal for $8,479,406. It is located between Notre Dame Street West, Place d’Armes, Saint-Jacques Street, and Saint-Laurent Boulevard. The four courts operate from a leased building not owned by the Government of Canada.

PSPC awarded two major contracts for this project following public competitive processes promoting the participation of women and Indigenous people. Architecture49 Inc. and Perkins+Will Canada were awarded a contract worth approximately $13.6 million for architectural and engineering services, responsible for building design, preparation of plans and specifications, and supervision during construction. Pomerleau Inc. was awarded a $143 million contract for construction management.

This construction management approach fosters collaboration between PSPC, the architectural and engineering consultant, and the construction manager, enhancing efficiency and allowing construction to commence before design completion.

The project involved consultations with the City of Montréal, responsible for preserving Old Montréal’s heritage character, and Quebec’s Ministère de la Culture et des Communications.