Living in a "garden city" brings delight in Trois-Rivières
A Garden City Haven in Trois-Rivières: Normanville Neighborhood
The Normanville neighborhood in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, is renowned for its picturesque and tranquil setting, often referred to as a "garden city." This residential area, marked by its mature trees, green spaces, and winding streets, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban living [1].
Established in 1948, the Garden City of Normanville was a rarity in Quebec during the 1940s and 1950s. The neighbourhood was designed with a focus on natural beauty and quality of life, featuring a network of tree-lined streets, bungalow-style homes, and spacious green spaces [1]. This urban planning approach, which integrated nature and residential areas, has made Normanville an appealing choice for families and individuals seeking a serene, suburban atmosphere within the city.
The neighbourhood's emphasis on community engagement and mutual aid has been a constant for 80 years, with activities such as sports, arts, and education continuing to thrive [1]. This neighbourly spirit contrasts sharply with the chaos and individualism found in some Quebec cities, creating a sense of solidarity that enhances the quality of life for its residents.
Notable personalities from Trois-Rivières, including Jean-Victor Allard, Léon Balcer, Ludger Duvernay, Nérée Beauchemin, Denis Vaugeois, and Jean Boulet, have made their homes in Normanville [1]. The neighbourhood has also been a breeding ground for political leaders, with François-Philippe Champagne, the federal minister we know today, having experienced his political awakening there [1].
François Roy, a former city employee and radio broadcaster, is passionate about the history of Trois-Rivières and the Normanville neighbourhood. In 2018, Denis Ricard, the former chief of urban planning for the city, co-wrote a pamphlet on the history of Normanville, providing valuable insights into the neighbourhood's development [1].
The Normanville neighbourhood is designed with practicality in mind, with wide avenues to keep motorized traffic concentrated and everything necessary for daily life within walking distance or a short bike ride [1]. In recent years, the housing crisis has driven the "densification" of cities, and Normanville's strategic layout, which prioritizes walkability and bike-friendly streets, remains relevant today.
In addition to its practical layout, Normanville boasts an open-air "street museum" featuring sculptures by 24 artists, adding to its cultural appeal [1]. The neighbourhood's rich history, combined with its tranquil setting and vibrant community, make it a desirable place to live for many in Trois-Rivières.
[1] Information sourced from various online resources.
Housing in Normanville showcases a blend of charming bungalow-style homes, fitting perfectly for those seeking a serene suburban atmosphere within the city. The home-and-garden spaces in this garden city lifestyle contribute to its picturesque and tranquil setting.
