Almost 50 residents had to be urgently evacuated from a building in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu on Tuesday due to significant security risks to the building.
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It all started on Oct. 28 when a concerned building resident contacted the city's planning department to report the alarming condition of the 36-unit building, located at 375 Thibodaux St.
An inspection carried out the next day revealed significant cracks in the foundation, walls and floors.
Given the gravity of the situation, the Régie du logement du Québec (RBQ) was alerted to take over official procedures.
On Monday, November 3, an engineering report confirmed the need for immediate evacuation of the building.
The next morning, the building manager presented this report to local authorities, prompting the rapid mobilization of municipal services and firefighters.
A total of 48 people were evacuated, 17 of whom were cared for by the Red Cross.
“The remaining residents decided to move on their own,” the press release said.
A reception center was set up at the Aurélie-Rivard swimming pool and the Red Cross stepped in to offer housing and temporary support to the 17 evacuated residents.
As a security measure, the locks on the building have been changed and access is prohibited until corrective work has been carried out.
A meeting was held between the City and RBQ to ensure strict monitoring of the matter.
The city of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu confirms that it will continue to work closely with the Régie to guarantee the safety and speedy reintegration of residents.
