Saint-Léonard is a suburban borough located in the city of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is situated on the island of Montreal, approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) east of downtown Montreal.
Geography and Climate
Saint-Léonard is bordered by the Saint-Michel River to the north, Highway 25 to the south, Highway 40 to the west, and Highway 132 to the east. The borough covers an area of approximately 18.5 square kilometers (7.1 square miles). Its terrain is generally flat, with some gentle slopes and valleys.
The climate in Saint-Léonard is continental, with cold winters and warm summers. Temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F) in January, the coldest month, while temperatures above 25°C (77°F) are not uncommon during the summer months.
Demographics
According to the 2016 Canadian Census, Saint-Léonard has a population of approximately 67,000 people. The borough is predominantly French-speaking, with over 90% of residents speaking French as their first language. However, English speakers also make up a significant portion of the population, and many businesses and services are bilingual.
Economy
Saint-Léonard has a diverse economy, with a mix of industrial, commercial, and residential areas. The borough is home to several major highways and roads, making it an important hub for transportation and logistics companies. Other key industries in the area include manufacturing, construction, and retail trade.
The borough also has a significant number of small businesses and startups, particularly in the fields of technology and e-commerce. Additionally, Saint-Léonard is home to several large shopping centers, including Galeries d’Anjou and Carrefour Lachine.
Points of Interest
Some popular attractions and points of interest in Saint-Léonard include:
- Galeries d’Anjou: A large indoor shopping mall featuring over 150 stores and services.
- Carrefour Lachine: A major shopping center with a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options.
- Saint-Léonard Park: A large public park offering walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
- Montreal River: A scenic river that runs through the borough and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.
- Anjou Golf Club: An 18-hole golf course located in the heart of Saint-Léonard.
Community and Culture
Saint-Léonard is known for its strong sense of community and cultural identity. The borough has a number of community centers, libraries, and cultural organizations that promote arts, culture, and social activity.
The borough also hosts several annual festivals and events, including the Fête d’Anjou (a summer festival featuring live music, food vendors, and children’s activities) and the Marché de Noël (a Christmas market offering handmade crafts, holiday treats, and entertainment).
Education
Saint-Léonard has a range of educational institutions, including:
- École secondaire Saint-Charles-Garnier: A public high school serving students in grades 7 to 11.
- Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf: A private Catholic college offering programs for students aged 13 to 18.
- Université de Montréal – Campus Sainte-Anne: A satellite campus of the University of Montreal located in Saint-Léonard.
Public Transportation
Saint-Léonard is well-connected to other areas of Montreal via public transportation. The borough has several bus lines operated by Société de transport de Montréal (STM), including express buses that connect to downtown Montreal and other nearby suburbs. Additionally, the borough is served by two major highways: Highway 25 and Highway 40.
Overall, Saint-Léonard is a vibrant and diverse suburban borough with a strong sense of community and cultural identity. Its convenient location, range of amenities, and access to public transportation make it an attractive destination for residents and businesses alike.