If you’ve ever driven an old car, you might appreciate what it’s like to be responsible for Plaza Pointe-Claire. We love our old car, cherish the many fond memories of family and friends associated with it, but operate it with that nagging feeling that it might abandon us at the worst possible moment. Repairs are costly, and you question your sanity investing when you know that you’re probably wasting money. The analogy feels fitting, but in the Plaza’s case, our “old car” serves the entire community and can’t simply be traded in for a new model at the local dealership.

Since 1958, Plaza Pointe-Claire has grown alongside the community. It’s more than a place to shop. Many say it’s the heart of the neighbourhood. Like an old car, it evokes emotional connections through comfort, familiarity, memories, and the chance encounters with neighbours that are, ultimately, what life is about. In a world dominated by screens and clicks, the Plaza is a rare place that connects us.

At the Plaza, we can’t help but witness the shared human experience across all generations. Who hasn’t smiled at a wobbly toddler taking their first giddy steps ahead of mom or dad? Or watched a proudly independent senior pushing their walker with unmatched determination? For generations, we’ve seen John Rennie High School teens bring their enthusiasm to the Plaza during lunch breaks. While their exuberance might occasionally cross the line, they generally infuse the place with welcome energy and life. Later in the day, young people stream in wearing ballet tights, karate whites, or with a guitar or school bag strung on their backs, ready for extracurricular activities. Busy moms and dads often use the time to grab a few groceries or decompress with other parents over a coffee. Whether it’s getting a haircut, picking up essentials, seeing a doctor, or patting a dog in the mall, the Plaza has always been more than a shopping destination—it’s a part of our daily lives.

Another unique aspect of Plaza Pointe-Claire is the connection between business owners and shoppers. We know our shopkeepers by name and see how hard they work to serve the community. Their advice, care, and dedication create a warmth you won’t find on Amazon. The symbiotic nature of the relationship is on full display, and it’s clear that we need each other to thrive. 

But the reality is, our beloved Plaza is now 70 years old. Like an aging car, its essential components are wearing out, and repairs are becoming impractical. Costly upgrades might only provide temporary relief. And yet, we can’t ignore the facts: the Plaza, as it stands, cannot serve the community indefinitely. Unlike a car, replacing or rejuvenating the Plaza isn’t simple. Nobody wants to be inconvenienced, stores can’t just close indefinitely, and there’s no magic wand to rebuild overnight. 

The economics are challenging. Any new construction must be paid for somehow. City Hall, in its responsibility to serve citizens, must ensure that everything works for the community as a whole. While there are many valid perspectives, unrealistic visions and resistance to change often complicate the process. Trade-offs are inevitable, and not all stakeholders will get exactly what they want. It’s complicated.

Despite these hurdles, we should remain optimistic about the future of Plaza Pointe-Claire. Today’s most forward-thinking urban planners recognize that the future of strong, vibrant mixed-use communities lies in what’s called the “15-minute city.” These communities offer proximity to shopping, schools, bike paths, recreation, transportation, and cultural amenities — all within a short walk or ride. Plaza Pointe-Claire is already perfectly situated for this model.

Schools, Pointe-Claire City Hall, and the library are just up the street. Our arena and world-class aquatic centre are a five-minute walk away along a beautiful woodland path through the Drake Forest. The Terra Cotta Natural Park is steps away. From the Plaza, you can hop on a train to downtown or a bus to the future REM. Talk to residents of the L’Esterel apartments next door, and you’ll hear how much they value the convenience of living in a “five-minute community.” It’s a sustainable, connected lifestyle—and it’s a vision that could guide the Plaza’s future.

While the current structure is showing its age, the spirit of Plaza Pointe-Claire remains alive and well. The Plaza has always been more than bricks and mortar. It’s where connections are made, milestones are celebrated, and life unfolds in meaningful ways.

By embracing thoughtful, sustainable development, we can reduce our environmental footprint, promote walkability, and create a greener, more connected future. Together, we can ensure the Plaza remains a cherished part of the community for decades to come.

We value the deep emotional connection so many of you have with Plaza Pointe-Claire. By working together, dreaming realistically, and taking action, we can honour its legacy while building an even brighter future. Let’s ensure the Plaza thrives for another 70 years.

Dan Scheunert is the son of Kurt, who, with his partner, bought Plaza Pointe-Claire in 1976. Jason Kokesch has been its property manager since 2001. To learn more about the history of Pointe-Claire Plaza, please watch Jason Bolanis’s “History of Pointe-Claire's Shopping Centre” and his “An Old Mall Remembered in a Montreal Suburb.”