The Centre’s prestige is a result of its metropolitan functions, institutions and international organizations. It is also reflected in the quality and range of its retail and cultural activities, which are supported by an efficient infrastructure network, particularly in public transportation and by facilities designed to meet the needs of a large metropolis.

The Centre’s attractiveness relies greatly on its lively atmosphere, the result of a great variety and intensity of functions and uses. The proximity of offices, stores, hotels and major cultural, institutional and recreational facilities make for an uncommonly dynamic environment compared to most cities of similar size.

As its performance in the areas of corporate services, high-tech and arts and media eloquently attests, Montréal has successfully made the shift to an increasingly knowledge-based economy. The Centre’s vitality has greatly contributed to its success and improved the appearance of some areas. For example, the Cité Multimédia, which is located in Faubourg des Récollets, has done much to revitalize the western section of Old Montréal. Similarly, the development of the Quartier international de Montréal (QIM) reestablished the connection between the Central Business District and the former financial district on Saint-Jacques.

The strength of a large city’s institutions, particularly those devoted to research is a key determinant of a region’s attractiveness along with the quality of its living environments.

The Centre’s exceptional natural setting, its built heritage, its conviviality and most importantly its rich and unique cultural life, make it a major tourist destination that contributes to the international renown of Montréal and Québec.

As a result, Montréal enjoys a status that is enviable in many respects. However, some of the Centre’s activities remain to be consolidated, while others will evolve considerably in the years to come.

The Plan specifically targets the maintenance and harmonious development of five major categories of activities that contribute to the Centre’s vitality:

• Business;
• Retail;
• Institutional;
• Tourist;
• Cultural.

The Plan sets forth five actions relative to the Centre’s metropolitan, national and international vocation:

5.1

Consolidate the Central Business District (CBD) See this action

5.2

Strengthen the Centre’s retail vitality See this action

5.3

Ensure and promote the presence of major academic and health care institutions in the Centre See this action

5.4

Develop the Centre’s tourism potential See this action

5.5

Increase the Centre’s cultural outreach See this action