A Neighborhood Garden in Dapples

With the goal of providing a cool and safe outdoor space for the children of the APEMS Floréal—Dapples branch, this participatory initiative invites the neighborhood to transform the parking lot in front of the APEMS entrance into a green space by removing its impermeable surface and turning it into a cool, welcoming neighborhood garden open to everyone!

The asphalt will be replaced with permeable gravel and grass; vegetation will be planted; street furniture will be installed; and a design will be painted on the ground.

Why?

Paved surfaces make the ground impermeable and absorb more heat. This has significant consequences for our environment: heat islands, flood risks during severe weather, and loss of biodiversity. 

This also has an impact on the mental health and quality of life of the city’s residents. In fact, studies show that being surrounded by greenery reduces stress, improves concentration, and enhances mental, cardiovascular, and respiratory health.

This new development will therefore help bring a refreshing touch to the city, allow rainwater to infiltrate the soil, promote biodiversity, and enhance the beauty of this outdoor space.

How can I participate?

There are several ways to participate in the project. You can register for one or more stages:

• A climate change awareness workshop—Saturday, September 13, 2025

• A participatory project to remove the asphalt pavement from the parking lot—date to be announced

• A participatory planting project

• A participatory workshop with the “Kit to Save the World… or Almost!”