LaSalle is a thriving neighborhood located close to downtown Montreal. The borough serves as a major industrial center which also boasts peaceful residential neighborhoods and vast green spaces, making it a wonderful place to live.
History
LaSalle came into existence as a municipality in 1845 and was named for French explorer Robert René Cavelier de La Salle who was the area's first seigneur. In 1912, LaSalle became the City of LaSalle. In 2002, it was annexed by the city of Montreal along with a number of other cities on the island.
The famous Lachine Rapids, in spite of their name, are actually situated within LaSalle territory. Before the creation of the Lachine Canal in 1824, the rapids had to be portaged on a trail called "Chemin LaSalle", now LaSalle Boulevard.
Geography
LaSalle is located on the southwestern part of the Island , halfway between downtown and the Trudeau International Airport. LaSalle is bordered to the north by Lachine, to the east by the Town of Verdun, and at the southern and western limits by the Saint Lawrence River. Several islands along the river belong to the borough, including the Île aux Hérons migratory bird reserve. The Lachine Rapids pass right by the borough.
Demographics
In 2006, the total population was approximately 75,000 with 40% speaking French at home and 26.5% English, while 32% claim other languages as their Mother tongue.
Cityscape
Among LaSalle's attractions are Angrignon Mall, the Lachine Canal and the Aqueduc Canal, with its recreational areas, L’Octogone Library, Parc Angrignon, Île aux Hérons migratory bird refuge, the Saints-Anges archaeological site, Des Rapides Park, and the Fleming Windmill.
Highlights
LaSalle holds the main vantage point for admiring the Lachine Rapids, at the heart of the Des Rapides tourism centre—a route over 15 km long filled with tourist attractions that combine history and outdoor recreational activities. This route is the same one traveled for centuries by the discoverers of the continent in order to avoid the Lachine Rapids.
A real jewel of Mother Nature right in LaSalle, the Parc Des Rapides is a tranquil little island ideal for those who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Here you are able to enjoy the magnificent view overlooking the river and its tumultuous rapids, discover rare species of birds, or merely stroll along the many carefully maintained trails.
Transportation
LaSalle is served by the LaSalle commuter train station on the Delson-Candiac Line. Route 138 passes through the borough before crossing the Honoré Mercier Bridge to Kahnawake. Other important thoroughfares include LaSalle Blvd., Newman Blvd., La Vérendrye Blvd., Bishop Power Blvd., Champlain Blvd, Shevchenko, Lapierre, and Jean-Brillon.
Schools
LaSalle is known for its many public schools, most notably for l'Ecole secondaire Cavelier-de-LaSalle, which is known as a top talent producing school in the field of song and dance; LaSalle Community Comprehensive High School, home to diverse cultures; and Cégep André-Laurendeau, pre-university and technical college.
Services
LaSalle has over 40 parks, green spaces, and gardens accessible to the population all year long. For a picnic with friends or family, to play your favorite sport, or to take advantage of the beautiful sunny days, LaSalle's parks are right near home for you to enjoy.
Sports and recreation are a very large part of LaSalle residential life. The borough of LaSalle offers a wide range of recreational activities and sports facilities to residents of all ages. LaSalle has a variety of sports teams, including football, hockey, baseball, and soccer.
Links
www.ville.montreal.qc.ca
