Here's why part of Montreal's Village is closed: skating rink coming

A new ice rink is being installed in the Place du Village space on Ste. Catherine Street between Ateteken and Wolfe streets. (Daniel J. Rowe / The Canadian Press)

There should be more pedestrians and less vehicles in Montreal's Village neighbourhood in the coming weeks as the city closes a key section of road to create a new winter attraction.

Sainte-Catherine Street East is expected to be closed between Atateken and Wolfe streets until the beginning of March to allow the Ville-Marie borough to install an ice rink as part of plans to revamp the Village Square.

Starting Jan. 18, in addition to the 100-metre rink, the area will boast a multifunctional stage for shows, "vibrant lighting" and a high-level access walkway.

Every Saturday from Jan. 25 to March 1, there will be short film screenings from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

On Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. the rink will host Disco Sundays.

The square was created last October to replace the Blanc Gallery and includes a concession stand and bar.

It was designed as part of the Village's Collective Intervention Strategy.