Since then, it appears that the referendum regulations have been changed to prevent a small group of citizens from blocking a project supported by the community and respectful of heritage. However, efforts made with Ms. Mourani (federal), Marie Montpetit (provincial representative), as well as councilors Thuillier and Pagé, have yielded no results. There is still strong interest from many citizens, organizations, and the Ahuntsic borough. However, the leadership of the CSDM, owner of the site, states that the budget for this project no longer exists. This project could be a valuable asset for a borough struggling to highlight its architectural heritage, one of the oldest in Montreal.

Built around 1855, the building was destroyed by fire in 1997. In 2012, the CSDM proposed transforming the ruins of the externat into a House of Arts and Letters, open to students and neighborhood residents. The proposal was rejected by residents who feared it would disturb the quietness of the area. The externat will ultimately be included in the expansion project of Sophie-Barat School. A three-story building is planned to be constructed, ensuring the preservation and enhancement of the site’s heritage. An architectural competition was to be launched, but having not received approval from the Ministry of Education and the Treasury Board, the CSDM decided to issue a call for tenders in 2020.

Meanwhile, in August 2020, parents at the school learned that the Sophie-Barat School building was at risk of collapse and required major renovations.

In 2021, the Minister of Education, Jean-François Roberge, announced an investment of $100 million for the refurbishment of Sophie-Barat School. The cost rose to $164.5 million six months later to not only renovate but also expand the facility, which has been overcrowded for years. (Le Devoir, April 2, 2022). In June 2023, La Presse reported that the work could last until 2032.