Public Services and Procurement Canada has commenced construction on a new federal courts complex in Montreal.

The federal government is investing $156.1 million in the three-year project.

Montreal-based Architecture 49 and Toronto-headquartered Perkins+Will Canada are providing design and engineering services under a $13.6-million contract. Saint-Georges, Que.-based Pomerleau is managing construction as part of a $143-million deal.

Both contracts were awarded in 2021. The project site is located in the historic Old Montreal area. The federal government purchased the land from the City of Montreal for $8.5 million.

The 21,796-square-foot complex will house the the Federal Court of Appeal, the Federal Court, the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada and the Tax Court of Canada, as well as the Courts Administration Service. To meet the government’s new sustainable development requirements, the new eight-storey complex will be built according to LEED Gold and WELL Silver standards.

“For years to come, this new, modern, accessible and secure judicial complex will enable the four federal courts to facilitate access to justice and better serve Canadians,” said Darlene Carreau, chief administrator and CEO for the Courts Administration Service.

PSPC said it consulted the city, which is responsible for preserving and maintaining Old Montreal’s heritage character, and the Quebec government’s culture and communications ministry.

“The modern architectural concept will blend harmoniously into Old Montréal’s architectural and historic landscape,” said PSPC. “Canadians will benefit from improved and expanded access to justice thanks to the modern, secure, accessible and digitally enhanced facilities.”

The complex is slated to open in 2027.

Rendering: Government of Canada