In Episode 28 of CHIA Podcast, Chia-Yi Tung welcomes Isabelle Melançon, President and CEO of the Urban Development Institute of Québec (IDU), to discuss urban revitalization and the major challenges shaping the future of Québec’s downtowns.
Drawing on her leadership and extensive involvement in Québec’s real estate ecosystem, Isabelle shares a strategic and pragmatic perspective on unlocking the potential of our cities, revitalizing urban neighbourhoods, and fostering sustainable economic growth.
The conversation explores the IDU’s mission and priorities, along with the key obstacles to urban revitalization, including taxation, regulatory delays, mobility, public safety, homelessness, and the lasting impact of remote work. Isabelle also discusses why some cities are more successful than others, highlighting the importance of effective governance, long-term vision, and collaboration among municipalities, developers, businesses, and communities.
Looking ahead to Montréal in 2036, the discussion examines concrete actions needed to create vibrant, attractive, and economically resilient downtowns for residents, workers, businesses, and real estate investors.
An insightful conversation about the leadership, predictability, and collective action required to revitalize Québec’s urban centres and secure the long-term prosperity of its real estate industry.
