Westmount Recreation Centre wins a Prix du génie-conseil québécois 2015 award
13th edition of the Grands Prix du génie-conseil québécois : Changer le monde
The Concours des Grands Prix du génie-conseil québécois seeks to highlight the best of engineering achievements and know-how in Quebec, to underscore the collaborative partnerships between consulting engineers and contractors, and to champion the work of these professionals.
The Soirée des Grands Prix event is also an opportunity for all directors, employees and partners within the consulting-engineering industry to celebrate excellence in the field and learn about the latest innovations.
Although consulting-engineering has seen significant change in Quebec over the last several years, it continues to be defined by the pursuit of excellence and innovation in the design and implementation of projects, both an undeniable strength and a matter of pride and passion.
The winning projects were announced at a gala evening on Monday, May 11 at the Grande Bibliothèque in Montreal, hosted by Mr. Stéphan Bureau and inspired by the theme Changer le monde (changing the world). Many distinguished guests were in attendance, including Mr. Martin Coiteux, Minister responsible for Government Administration and Ongoing Program Review and Chair of the Conseil du trésor, and Mr. Christian Dubé, Executive Vice-President, Québec, of the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec.
The Prix Léonards were awarded to consulting-engineering firms and their clients in 10 categories. Winning projects were selected by an independent jury of prominent experts presided by La Presse columnist Mr. Alain Dubuc. Assessment criteria included the consulting engineer’s approach, management of human resources, the specific challenges of the project, the impact on the profession and the integration of sustainable development principles.
Bâtiment Structure (Building Structure)
CIMA+, recipient of the award in the Bâtiment Structure category, played a major role in the construction of the Westmount Recreation Centre, given that 40% of the overall budget was allocated to the structural component. Pomerleau’s design-build project for the City of Westmount – an underground arena with park area and outdoor pool – represented a particular challenge. In this case, the engineer created what amounted to an ‘underground bridge’ using steel beams to control costs and ensure the strength of the building envelope. This represents a world first, carried out at the local level.