Montreal's REM: A Tale of Two Timelines – Partial Triumph in November, Full Vision Delayed to 2026

Montreal's ambitious light rail network, the Réseau express métropolitain (REM), continues its journey towards completion with a mix of anticipation and prolonged waits. While commuters can look forward to a significant expansion this November, connecting the Deux-Montagnes and Bois-Franc stations to the existing REM line, another crucial segment will unfortunately require patience until 2026.

This mixed bag of progress highlights the complex realities of large-scale urban infrastructure projects.

The impending November opening of the Deux-Montagnes and Bois-Franc stations marks a crucial milestone for thousands of daily riders who have endured years of disruption. The long-awaited reinstatement of this vital corridor, which was previously shut down to accommodate REM construction, promises to reconnect communities and significantly enhance public transit options in the region.

This extension builds upon the successful launch of the initial 30.5-kilometre section from Brossard to Central Station in July 2023, which has already begun transforming southern Montreal's commute.

However, the excitement for this partial opening is tempered by the news that the Anse-à-l'Orme branch, initially targeted for a 2024 completion alongside the rest of the network, will now not be operational until 2026.

CDPQ Infra, the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec’s infrastructure branch and the project's developer, attributes this delay to the unforeseen complexity of integrating existing infrastructure, particularly the intricate task of building over a dozen railway tracks. This technical challenge has proven more demanding than initially projected, pushing back the timeline for an area that eagerly awaits improved transit access.

The overall REM project, with an estimated cost now exceeding $7 billion, was conceived as a monumental undertaking to revolutionize Montreal's public transportation.

Its grand vision included a fully operational, 67-kilometre automated light rail network by 2024. While progress has been undeniable, these latest delays underscore the inherent difficulties in such massive developments, often compounded by unexpected engineering hurdles and evolving urban landscapes.

For the residents and daily commuters of Montreal, the REM's phased rollout presents a bittersweet reality.

Each opening brings welcome relief and improved connectivity, yet each delay extends the period of inconvenience and uncertainty. As the network gradually takes shape, the focus remains on delivering a reliable and efficient transit system that, despite its challenges, promises to redefine urban mobility for generations to come.

The journey continues, one station and one branch at a time, towards a fully integrated and modern transit future for the city.