The Town of Rosemère has temporarily closed its three clay tennis courts at Bourbonnière Park following a province-wide precautionary alert over possible asbestos contamination in materials used to maintain such facilities.
Located at 333 Florian Street, the clay courts will remain closed until further notice while specialized analyses and tests are carried out to confirm compliance with Canadian environmental safety standards.
The move follows a recent discovery in another Quebec municipality, where routine upkeep materials for clay surfaces were found to potentially contain asbestos levels exceeding federal limits. This maintenance product is commonly used across Quebec, including in Rosemère.
Health and safety first
Municipal officials emphasized that the decision was not prompted by confirmed contamination in Rosemère but rather by an abundance of caution. “Protecting the health of residents and municipal employees is our top priority,” the Town stated, adding that it is committed to full compliance with environmental regulations.
To limit any potential health risks during the testing period, the courts will continue to be regularly watered, in line with recommendations from the Direction de santé publique des Laurentides, to prevent clay dust from becoming airborne.
Alternatives for tennis players
While the clay courts are out of service, players can continue their activities on the hard surface courts at Bourbonnière Park and at Hamilton Park, located at 133 Du Parc Street.
The Town acknowledged that the closure may inconvenience tennis enthusiasts but underscored that the measure is temporary and preventive. Further updates will be issued as soon as test results are available.
For more information, residents can contact Daniel Grenier, Director of Communications for the Town of Rosemère.
