A very small town in northwestern Quebec is quickly making its mark on the map.

The town of La Motte, hometown of a perceived frontrunner for the papacy, Marc Cardinal Ouellett, is preparing for a media and tourist storm that may follow if he is elected.

Officials in La Motte say it is hard to plan when you don't know the results of the Conclave, but preparations are already underway.

The town's director general Rachelle Cossette tells CJAD the parish church basement has been transformed into a media centre, and already about 30 media organizations from across Canada and the world have been accredited. 

She says they are working with the local tourism board to figure out how they will handle the influx of reporters and tourists as this town has no hotel and no restaurant.

"It is for sure visitors won't be able to sleep here," she says, "so we are making arrangements with the hotel in the nearest town about 30 km away which is Amos."

Caterers have also been alerted to the possible flock of visitors.

La Motte is a small town of just 439 residents. There is one main road and intersection. 

The townsfolk say it would be an honour to have one of their own be the next pope.