Located on the Island of Montreal in the province of Quebec, Canada, Dollard-des-Ormeaux (D.D.O.) is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. With a population of approximately 49,000 residents, D.D.O. is a thriving community that provides a high quality of life for its citizens.
Geography
Dollard-des-Ormeaux is situated on the western tip of the Island of Montreal, bordering the municipalities of Lachine and Dorval to the east, and Pointe-Claire to the west. The city’s terrain is characterized by gently rolling hills, with several parks and green spaces dotting the landscape. The area is served by a network of major highways, including Autoroute 20 and Highway 40, making it easily accessible from other parts of Montreal.
Climate
D.D.O.’s climate is typical of the southern Quebec region, with cold winters and warm summers. The average January temperature is around -10°C (14°F), while the July average is a pleasant 22°C (72°F). The area experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of 1,140 mm (45 in) of rainfall.
History
The city’s name “Dollard-des-Ormeaux” commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of Michel Dollard, a French-Canadian soldier who lost his life during the Battle of Lundy’s Lane in 1814. The area was first settled by European farmers in the late 18th century, with many arriving from England, Ireland, and France. Today, D.D.O. is a thriving community that celebrates its rich history and heritage through various cultural events and festivals.
Demographics
According to the most recent census data (2016), Dollard-des-Ormeaux has a diverse population:
- Population: 49,003
- Age:
- Children (0-14): 22.5%
- Youth (15-24): 17.3%
- Adults (25-64): 55.4%
- Seniors (65+): 14.8%
- Language:
- French: 57.2%
- English: 30.6%
- Other languages: 12.2%
- Income: The median household income is $73,444 CAD.
Education
Dollard-des-Ormeaux has a strong reputation for education, with several highly-regarded schools and institutions serving the community:
- Elementary schools: 5 public schools, 3 private schools
- Secondary schools: 2 public high schools (École Secondaire du Vieux-Bordeau and École Polyvalente Louis-Joseph-Papineau), 1 private high school (L’École Privée L’Alma)
- Post-secondary education: The Université de Montréal (UdeM) and the Cégep Garneau are both located nearby.
Economy
D.D.O.’s economy is driven by a mix of industries, including:
- Retail trade: A variety of shopping centers, including the famous Les Galeries d’Anjou
- Services: Medical services, home maintenance, and other professional services
- Manufacturing: Small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in sectors such as food processing, automotive, and aerospace
Cultural attractions
Dollard-des-Ormeaux offers a range of cultural attractions and events:
- Festivals:
- L’Estival de Dollard (summer music festival)
- Le Carnaval des Jeunes (youth carnival)
- La Fête nationale du Québec (Quebec National Day celebrations)
- Museums: The Dollard-des-Ormeaux Museum and the Bibliothèque régionale d’Anjou et de Pointe-Claire
- Public art: Various murals and sculptures throughout the city
Recreation
Residents of Dollard-des-Ormeaux enjoy a range of recreational activities:
- Parks and green spaces: Over 100 hectares (247 acres) of parks, playgrounds, and natural areas
- Water sports: Access to Lake Saint-Louis and other waterways for boating, fishing, and swimming
- Fitness centers: Several public and private facilities offering a range of fitness programs
Community resources
D.D.O. offers various community resources, including:
- Libraries: The Bibliothèque régionale d’Anjou et de Pointe-Claire serves the area with an extensive collection of books, media, and digital resources
- Community centers: 2 public community centers offering programs for children, youth, and adults
- Emergency services: Fire department, police station, and ambulance service are all readily available
Environmental initiatives
The city has implemented various environmental initiatives to reduce its ecological footprint:
- Waste management: A curbside recycling program and composting facilities for organic waste
- Renewable energy: Plans to develop a community solar panel project and encourage the adoption of green building practices
- Green spaces: Preservation and expansion of parks, gardens, and natural areas
Concerted efforts
Dollard-des-Ormeaux continues to evolve as a vibrant community that prioritizes diversity, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability. Through its various initiatives and programs, the city strives to foster a sense of belonging among residents, support local businesses, and preserve the rich history and culture of the area.