by Rhonda Massad
The Quebec games of 2016 will cost $10 million for the agglomeration of Montreal in 2016. The revenue expected is close to $49 million. None of the events will be held on the West Island though the event is considered an island wide event. West Island demerged cities will be contributing with their tax dollars allocated to the agglomeration.
Montreal executive committee member and Mayor of Pierrefonds-Roxboro, Jim Beis told The West Island Blog that the event will be concentrated in the city center at three different sports locations. There will be no locations used on the West Island rendering little revenue benefits from the event.
“This is an amazing event that will attracted 3,700 athletes and serve as a starting point for all these young people,” Beis explained, “if we want to see our athletes spring board to higher levels this is a great opportunity.”
“We are hosting it primarily at the three olympic poles: Claude Robillard, Jean Drapeau and the Olympic stadium, everything will be in that area. Archery will be at Hochelaga Maisoneuve,” he said, “we will be improving some facilities, as well, to host the games that will also serve to host some of the police and fireman games the next year.”
“This will have an incredible impact for Montreal – all the boroughs are involved. There will be some satellite events but none on the West Island.”
Lachine hosted the games in 2001 with satellite facilities.
Montreal will be delegating the responsibility for the organization of the 51st Quebec Games in 2016 to Sportsquebec Inc. The games take place every two years and last a total of ten days. Approximately twenty sports disciplines are represented. An expected 3,700 athletes ranging in ages from 12 to 17 years old, 1,675 officials and 4,000 will participate in the experience.
