The Chameran and Montpellier residential zones bordered by the Jules-Poitras Boulevard and the Autoroute des Laurentides are different from the residential core of the Saint-Laurent district and borough.
The territory is characterized by a considerable number of newcomers and by the homogeneity of a Lebanese population.
The AMT Montpellier train station on Côte-Vertu near Jules-Poitras is easily accessible by bus route number 171 of the Montreal STM. The population seems rather satisfied, but public transportation does need improvements, especially around Place Benoit and Painter Park.
In Chameran a little more then half of the dwellings have been built between 1960 and 1964 and, in 1969, the whole neighbourhood was just about completely organized.
Montpellier along the Montpellier Boulevard is even newer. Its development started as late as 1975. Large condo buildings now occupy an ancient rock quarry. Montpellier and the rock quarry industry correspond to the history of Saint-Laurent and to the first industry that ever emerged in the area.
Because of the precarious economic situation, many families and individuals living in the surroundings are vulnerable. For example, the dwellings in both neighbourhoods are generally well constructed and well maintained, but the rents are high-priced. In addition, the proportion of residents with a diploma or a university degree is quite high, which is very positive. Unfortunately, the unemployment rate is also high, even if the recognition of credentials and training acquired outside Quebec is one of the first important integration procedures.
Both neighbourhoods have been identified as priority intervention zones by Culture, des sports, des loisirs et du dévelopment social of the Saint-Laurent borough. According to a recent survey, the reinforcement of police surveillance, the development of additional leisure activities and the construction of a medical clinic would significantly improve the living conditions of the local population.