J.W. McConnell Building entrance renovations
New installations improved heating during the winter months, accessibility for individuals with reduced mobility and more.
Overview
The existing entrance doors to the J.W. McConnell (LB) Building had passed their useful lifespan and needed to be replaced. Starting March 31, 2025, all seven entrances to the building were renovated in phases. The work was divided into three phases, during which two or three entrances were renovated per phase.
At no time were two entrances facing the same street renovated concurrently. The aim was to make the building as accessible as possible during the work.
Completion date
February 2026
Renovation schedule
During the renovations, entrances were inaccessible during the following periods:
- April to June 2025
- West entrance on De Maisonneuve Boulevard West (near 4TH SPACE)
- Entrance at 1453 MacKay St.
- August to November 2025
- East entrance on De Maisonneuve Boulevard West (near Birks Student Service Centre)
- East entrance in the Ste. Catherine Street West alleyway (near SHIFT)
- November 2025 to February 2026
- South entrance on Bishop Street (near SHIFT)
- West entrance in the Ste. Catherine Street West alleyway
- North entrance on Bishop Street (Welcome Centre)
Project goals
The renovations aimed to:
- give a uniform appearance to the entrances;
- improve accessibility for wheelchair users, deliveries and occupants;
- improve heating during the winter months;
- increase durability and reduce maintenance required in the entrances;
- standardize hardware; and
- improve security.
The project also aligned with Concordia's Sustainability Action Plan through the installation of decarbonized, easy-to-maintain materials and energy-efficient heating. These installations improved safety, accessibility and comfort.
Another objective of the project was to increase the reliability and lifespan of the hardware and heating system to reduce maintenance needs and interventions by the property management team.
