Harden & Crombie Break Ground on Faubourg Contrecœur Project
Harden, a leading Canadian real estate development and investment company, together with Crombie, one of the country’s most recognized owners, operators, and developers of high-quality real estate assets, have officially broken ground on Faubourg Contrecœur, their newest large-scale commercial development in the heart of Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Quebec.
The project represents not only a milestone for the two development partners but also a major investment in the future of the east end of Montreal. Designed as a mixed-use community hub, Faubourg Contrecœur combines essential retail, sustainable infrastructure, and community-focused amenities into one thoughtfully planned destination.
A Vision for Community-Centered Growth
With a land footprint of more than 240,000 square feet, Faubourg Contrecœur is set to redefine how residents of the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve area access daily essentials and enjoy local services. The development will feature more than 52,000 square feet of Gross Leasable Area (GLA), anchored by a highly anticipated 40,000-square-foot IGA extra supermarket.
Beyond retail, the vision extends to creating an inclusive and sustainable environment. Plans include landscaped green spaces, safe and accessible bicycle paths, electric vehicle charging stations, and buildings with solar-powered rooftops—all reinforcing Harden and Crombie’s commitment to sustainable development. Additionally, over 170 parking spaces will serve the growing demand in the area, balancing accessibility for drivers with eco-conscious infrastructure.
Leadership Voices on the Project’s Significance
At the official ground-breaking, executives from both Harden and Crombie expressed enthusiasm about the project’s community impact.
“Today marks a significant milestone for the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community. It is with great enthusiasm that we break ground on a development that will bring long-awaited amenities to residents,” said Tyler Harden, Co-CEO of Harden. “Our vision has always been to create a space that enhances daily life, supports local jobs, and fosters growth for the entire community. Partnering with Crombie to bring Faubourg Contrecœur to life allows us to support the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community and respond to a significant need.”
For Crombie, the project underscores its national strategy of delivering community hubs that create long-term value for residents and retailers alike.
“Faubourg Contrecoeur is an excellent example of Crombie’s commitment to working with our partners to enrich communities coast to coast through thoughtful and sustainable development,” added Victor Settino, Executive Vice President, Development and Construction at Crombie. “We’re proud of the positive impact this project will have on Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve and the people who call it home.”
An Investment in the East End of Montreal
The project represents an investment exceeding $30 million in the east end of Montreal. For decades, this area has been underserved in terms of modern, accessible retail and sustainable commercial hubs. With population growth and urban renewal continuing in Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, the timing of Faubourg Contrecœur is strategic.
The IGA extra supermarket will be the development’s anchor tenant and is scheduled to open in the summer of 2026. This store will not only provide residents with easy access to fresh, high-quality groceries close to home but also serve as an economic driver by creating jobs and supporting local suppliers.
The Future IGA Extra: A Flagship Community Store
Sobeys, the parent company of IGA, sees Faubourg Contrecœur as an opportunity to showcase what a modern community grocery store can offer.
“We are delighted to launch the construction of the future 40,000 sq. ft. IGA extra in Faubourg Contrecœur, which will offer a comprehensive and personalized experience,” said Geneviève Dufresne, AVP, Real Estate Development and Transactions Qc & Atl. at Sobeys.
The store will feature a butcher shop, bakery, and a dedicated Rachelle Béry natural and organic foods section, as well as incorporate advanced sustainable design features. More than just a grocery store, it aims to become a gathering place for the community, promoting Quebec producers and fostering local connections.
“With its sustainable features and community focus, this new store will create local jobs, promote our Quebec producers, and become a true gathering place for families in the community by the summer of 2026,” Dufresne emphasized.
Retail Mix and Opportunities for Expansion
While the IGA extra will serve as the anchor, Faubourg Contrecœur is being designed as a multi-tenant development. Two additional pads—one of approximately 10,000 square feet and another of 3,000 square feet—remain available. These spaces are intended to host complementary retail tenants that will broaden the site’s offerings and provide affordable everyday essentials.
This retail mix will ensure Faubourg Contrecœur is not just a single-store location but a true community hub where residents can shop, gather, and enjoy enhanced services in a convenient location.
Sustainability and Long-Term Value
One of the distinguishing features of Faubourg Contrecœur is its commitment to sustainability. The project includes:
- Solar-powered rooftops that reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
- Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to promote cleaner transportation.
- Bicycle paths and racks that encourage healthy, low-carbon commuting.
- Thoughtfully designed green spaces that enhance the urban environment and provide residents with recreational and social areas.
These initiatives align with broader goals in urban planning to create developments that not only serve today’s needs but also contribute positively to future generations.
A Catalyst for Growth in Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve
The Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough has been experiencing steady growth, with a blend of long-standing residents and younger families moving into the community. However, many residents have expressed the need for modern, accessible retail spaces and essential services closer to home.
Faubourg Contrecœur directly responds to this need. By anchoring the development with an IGA extra supermarket and offering additional retail space, the project will enhance quality of life, reduce travel times for daily necessities, and create new job opportunities.
Moreover, by attracting a mix of tenants, the development is positioned to become a catalyst for further growth, drawing new businesses and services to the area while reinforcing the east end’s appeal as a dynamic and livable community.
