The City of Clarence-Rockland has clarified reports regarding the highly anticipated Parc Simon revamp project.

Former mayor of Clarence-Rockland, Jean-Marc Lalonde, raised about the future of the site, hoping that it would remain public and sent a letter to City of Clarence-Rockland officials stating his opposition to the City’s proposal to amend the official plan and zoning By-law to transform Parc Simon and the site of the former Jean-Marc Arena into a medium-density residential zone that could accommodate at least 65 housing units. He said that this land serves as essential parking for Parc Simon and community activities, that it is the ideal location for a future community hall that could be used for public events or emergencies, and that the land was originally funded for recreational uses. The former mayor and member of provincial parliament is asking the Clarence-Rockland City Council to reject the amendment in order to preserve this space for public use.

However, the City has released a statement offering some clarification on the subject.

“The City of Clarence-Rockland has no plans to turn Simon Park into a residential area,” a statement to the City’s social media channels stated. “On June 12 (2025), we announced Parc Simon’s revitalization project, the central element will be a lively festival-style square designed to bring the community together throughout the year. While some aging infrastructure is being removed, revenue from the sale of surplus land and development royalties will go directly to fund new recreational, cultural and community facilities.”