Pointe-aux-Trembles (also known as Rivière-des-Prairies—Pointe-aux-Trembles) is an industrial and residential borough located in the northeastern part of Montreal Island, in the province of Quebec, Canada. It covers an area of 15.25 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 53,000 people.
Geography
The borough is situated on the north shore of the Saint Lawrence River, opposite the city of Laval. Its terrain is relatively flat, with some elevation changes along the riverbank. Pointe-aux-Trembles borders the municipalities of Rivière-des-Prairies and Anjou to the east, and the boroughs of Ahuntsic-Cartierville and Rosemont—La Petite-Patrie to the south.
History
The area was first inhabited by the Huron-Wendat Native American tribe. In 1666, French colonist Charles le Moyne de Longueuil established a farm and trading post in the area, which became known as “Pointe-aux-Trembles” (French for “Point of Trembling”). The name is said to refer to the trembling or shaking motion caused by the wind through the reeds on the riverbank.
During the 18th century, Pointe-aux-Trembles was a small farming community and a popular destination for picnics and recreational activities among Montrealers. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area underwent significant industrialization, with the establishment of factories, textile mills, and other manufacturing facilities.
Economy
Today, Pointe-aux-Trembles is a major industrial hub in eastern Montreal. The borough is home to several large companies, including textile manufacturers, packaging firms, and logistics providers. The area also features numerous warehouses, distribution centers, and transportation infrastructure, such as the nearby Trans-Canada Highway (Autoroute 40).
Demographics
The population of Pointe-aux-Trembles is predominantly French-speaking, with a significant number of residents identifying as Franco-Montrealers or Québécois. The borough has a relatively high percentage of young adults and families, with a median age of around 35 years.
According to the 2016 census, the population breakdown for Pointe-aux-Trembles is:
- Population: 53,000
- Median age: 34.4 years
- French-speaking residents: 83%
- Anglophone residents: 8%
- Visible minority populations (including Indigenous peoples): 10%
Education
Pointe-aux-Trembles has a well-developed educational infrastructure, with several public and private schools serving the area’s children from kindergarten to secondary school. The borough also features several institutions of higher learning, including CEGEP (Collège d’enseignement général et professionnel) and university programs.
Transportation
The borough is connected to Montreal via a network of highways and public transportation systems:
- Autoroute 40: Provides access to the Trans-Canada Highway and major highways leading north and east.
- Rivière-des-Prairies—Pointe-aux-Trembles metro station (Line 1): Connects the area to downtown Montreal and other nearby boroughs.
- Bus network: Offers frequent service throughout the borough and to surrounding areas.
Landmarks
Some notable landmarks in Pointe-aux-Trembles include:
- Église Saint-Roch (Saint Roch Church)
- Salle de la Jeunesse (youth center)
- Parc des Plantes (park with playground, sports facilities, and walking trails)
- Rivière-des-Prairies—Pointe-aux-Trembles library
Challenges
Like many urban areas in Quebec, Pointe-aux-Trembles faces challenges related to:
- Industrial pollution and environmental degradation
- Traffic congestion on main roads and highways
- High levels of poverty and social inequality among certain populations
Despite these challenges, the borough is working towards sustainable development and revitalization initiatives, such as urban renewal projects, green spaces, and community engagement programs.
Overall, Pointe-aux-Trembles is a vibrant and rapidly evolving industrial and residential area that plays an important role in Montreal’s economic landscape.