Laval unveils its new multi-million dollar website with fewer functionalities for english speakers
The City of Laval unveiled last week a redesigned website, “Laval.ca,”. The project aims to deliver a modern, intuitive platform optimized for mobile devices. According to a press release from Mayor Boyer’s administration on March 20, the new site streamlines access to municipal information and services, adapting to the evolving needs of residents.
Our review of the revamped site (french version) highlighted several improvements: an enhanced search engine, navigation optimized for smartphones and tablets, and an interactive calendar with popular search filters. Additionally, an address-based tool facilitates access to collection schedules and essential services, while a continuous feedback feature enables citizens to submit suggestions directly. Information is now organized by relevant topics and seasons, complemented by new online forms that reduce manual processing.
(Source: Courrier Laval, Stéphane St-Amour, March 21, 2025)
The overhaul also emphasizes accessibility. Built following best practices in digital accessibility, the site now better serves approximately 60,000 residents with physical or cognitive limitations. Moreover, eco-design principles have cut the platform’s energy consumption by 50%.
The project is expected to yield significant cost savings. By replacing the outdated system, Laval anticipates lower maintenance expenses, reduced paper and postage costs, and fewer information requests to municipal services. Philippe Déry, City Public Affairs Chief, noted that the net cost of the redesign is around $24,000 per year, comparable to the current updating expenses.
(Source: City of Laval Press Release, March 20, 2025)
Fewer functionalities for english speakers
The new website seems at first glance to be less accessible for English-speaking Laval residents, as key features such as recommended searches, “Activités en vedette,” and “S’impliquer” do not appear on the homepage. The website states:
“More information in English?
This website and its content are primarily available in French. In accordance with the Loi sur la langue officielle et commune du Québec, le français, some content cannot be translated. If you have questions or require additional information in English, you can reach us through Mon dossier.”
Even with this law, the website is functional in English but appears to have far fewer features and less accessibility for English speakers than initially presented by the mayor.
In fall 2023, several Action Laval councilors criticized the $7.7 million investment, calling it extravagant and unnecessary. Critics including Aglaia Revelakis, David De Cotis, Isabelle Piché, Achille Cifelli, and Paolo Galati argued that the funds would have been better spent on park maintenance, street repairs, or sewer upgrades.
(Source: Courrier Laval, Stéphane St-Amour, October 17, 2023)
Mayor Stéphane Boyer and his team defend the project, noting that the previous platform had outlived its usefulness. They stress that the transformation is essential for improving citizens’ online experience, enhancing access to services, and bolstering data security, especially after a cyberattack in September 2022. The mayor insists, “Laval.ca is not a luxury. It is a strategic tool to modernize our communication and services while ensuring the security and sustainability of our digital infrastructure.”
