The Saint‑Pie town council approved a resolution this month to study the construction of a new high school on the grounds of the 57‑year‑old Sanair racetrack, prompting heritage organizations to ask that the site be designated as a heritage landmark.
The Sanair racetrack, located in the municipality of Saint‑Pie, Quebec, has been in continuous operation for more than half a century. Its 57‑year history makes it one of the longer‑standing motorsport venues in the province, and local groups argue that the track represents an important piece of regional cultural heritage.
Council members voted to move forward with a feasibility study that would examine the suitability of the racetrack property for a modern educational facility. The resolution does not commit the municipality to demolition, but it does open the possibility that the existing track could be altered or removed to accommodate school buildings and associated infrastructure.
In response, heritage advocates have called on municipal and provincial authorities to protect the site by granting it official heritage status. They contend that such a designation would safeguard the track’s historic character while still allowing the town to pursue its educational objectives. The groups have not provided a formal alternative plan for the school, but they emphasize the need to preserve the racetrack’s legacy for future generations.
The council’s consideration of the high‑school project follows earlier discussions about expanding educational capacity in Saint‑Pie. Officials have highlighted the growing demand for secondary‑school space, though they have not disclosed a timeline for any potential construction. As the council proceeds with its study, the fate of the Sanair racetrack remains uncertain, with heritage designation and school development positioned as competing priorities.
Both sides await further deliberation, and the outcome will determine whether the historic racetrack will continue to host events or be repurposed for educational use.