Kruger Products transforms part of Gatineau plant site into new public park

Kruger Products Inc. and the National Capital Commission (NCC) have officially opened Confluence Park, a new 10,000 m² public green space developed on the grounds of Kruger Products’ Laurier plant in Gatineau, Quebec.

Developed in several phases, the project transformed 13% of the plant’s land into a landscaped riverside area designed to expand public access to the Ottawa River waterfront. The park also features a permanent exhibition highlighting the site’s history, industrial heritage and contribution to the region’s economic development.

The inauguration brought together government officials and representatives from Kruger, the NCC and project partners, including Steven MacKinnon, Member of Parliament for Gatineau, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons; Greg Fergus, Member of Parliament for Hull–Aylmer; Suzanne Tremblay, Member of the National Assembly of Quebec for Hull; Gene Kruger, Co-President of Kruger Inc.; Maryse Gaudreault, Chairperson of the NCC; and Tobi Nussbaum, CEO of the NCC.

TRANSFORMING THE INDUSTRIAL SITE

Launched in 2022, the project included the modernization of lighting in the surrounding area, as well as architectural and aesthetic improvements to the plant’s façade. Construction of the park was completed in recent months with the installation of streetscaping elements and extensive landscaping.

Confluence Park now features more than 400 deciduous trees, nearly 20 conifers, approximately 830 shrubs and more than 7,500 m² of seeded grass and ecological restoration areas. Native plants adapted to local climate conditions were selected to strengthen the site’s ecological resilience.

Located along Laurier Street and bordered by the Capital Pathway, the park is accessible by foot and bicycle and offers views of the Ottawa River and Canada’s Parliament Hill.

A permanent exhibition installed along Laurier Street also explores the evolution of the area through a series of panels featuring historical photographs. The exhibition highlights the site’s relationship with the Ottawa River and its role in the region’s economic and industrial development.

“The Confluence Park reflects the kind of future we want to build for Gatineau and the National Capital Region: greener, more accessible, and more connected communities. By working with the NCC, Kruger and our partners, our government is helping open up the waterfront to the public, celebrate Gatineau’s industrial heritage, and invest in projects that make a real difference in people’s daily lives. This is how we build stronger communities and a national capital that all Canadians can be proud of.” – The Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant

“The inauguration of Confluence Park marks the addition of a brand-new green space in the heart of the Gatineau-Ottawa region. This achievement stems from an innovative agreement that will allow Kruger Products Inc. to continue its operations at its historic site while giving back to the Gatineau community. This park is the result of an exemplary commitment to a shared vision for our region.” – The Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Member of Parliament for Gatineau.

 

INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY ACCESS

The project combines the continued operation of Kruger Products’ historic industrial site with the creation of a new public area along the waterfront.

“The Outaouais River has been at the heart of our community’s history, commerce, and industrial growth. This new green space will provide an oasis where we can come together and recharge. With the opening of Confluence Park, we are celebrating our history while building a greener, stronger future for everyone.” – The Honourable Greg Fergus, Member of Parliament for Hull-Aylmer.

“This new park is the result of a shared vision between the National Capital Commission and Kruger Products. The City is proud to have contributed to the project by enabling its designation in the heart of downtown Gatineau, along the Ottawa River shoreline. The park’s name, Confluence, beautifully captures both the meeting of the rivers at Chaudière Falls and the coming together of partners around a common goal: restoring public access to this remarkable landscape, which is deeply rooted in our region’s history.” – Rachel M. Deslauriers, President of the Commission de l’environnement et de la lutte aux changements climatiques and Councillor for Mitigomijokan, on behalf of Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau.

“The opening of this new park is a significant contribution by the Kruger family to the community. As you know, restoring access to the shoreline is a priority for the National Capital Commission. What was once primarily known as an industrial area is now a place where everyone can enjoy the river, nature and history, and connect with others.” – Maryse Gaudreault, Chairperson of the Board, National Capital Commission.

Kruger Products has operated in the Gatineau community for nearly three decades, while the industrial history of the site dates back to 1890. The Laurier plant currently employs 450 people.

“For nearly 30 years, Kruger Products has been part of the Gatineau community, on a site whose history dates back to 1890. We are pleased to have been able to convert a portion of the plant’s land into a park accessible to everyone. This project brings together the site’s industrial past, the activities that continue there today thanks to our 450 employees, and the community that will enjoy this new space for years to come.” – Gene Kruger, Co-President, Kruger Inc.