The recent inauguration of the Deux-Montagnes extension of Montreal’s REM light-rail network is being hailed as a significant development, significantly reducing commuting times for many individuals. This new route originates from Deux-Montagnes, traverses Laval and the West Island, proceeds through the Mount Royal tunnel to reach downtown, and also provides connections to Montreal’s Metro system at Édouard-Montpetit, McGill, and Gare Centrale stations. Furthermore, it links to the South Shore branch of the REM, which commenced operations in the summer of 2023.
An overview of the network map reveals 20 stations along the rail line connecting Montreal’s North and South shores, with all stations operational except for one: Griffintown—Bernard-Landry, positioned between Ottawa and William streets. This situation has prompted questions about the status of the station originally planned to open in 2024 and whether it will materialize.
Construction of the station is a complex endeavor, according to Francis Labbé, a spokesperson for CDPQ Infra, the entity overseeing REM development. The station’s construction is currently tied to a proposed station within former mayor Valérie Plante’s redevelopment scheme for the Bridge-Bonaventure area, spanning the Sud-Ouest and Ville-Marie boroughs. Labbé explained that simultaneous construction of both stations is deemed necessary to minimize user disruption and cost implications.
However, managing construction activities in densely populated urban areas around an active transit line poses significant challenges. Pierre Barrieau, a transportation lecturer at Université de Montréal, highlighted potential closures and service disruptions that could last weeks or even months. The Transport Ministry indicated that while CDPQ Infra affirmed its commitment to constructing the Griffintown station by 2023, the status of the Bridge-Bonaventure station remains uncertain pending financial analysis.
Axel Fournier, a spokesperson for the Association pour le Transport Collectif de la Rive-Sud, emphasized the importance of the Griffintown—Bernard-Landry station for South Shore commuters, citing the inconvenience caused by the REM’s relocation of a key bus stop near Old Montreal. Despite the setbacks, Fournier believes any future disruptions will be justified to avoid lengthy walks.
The Transport Ministry confirmed ongoing discussions regarding the addition of the Bridge-Bonaventure station to the network, with financing analysis underway. The Griffintown—Bernard-Landry station, envisioned as a vital link between downtown and the burgeoning southwest area, has yet to receive a firm opening date. Meanwhile, work progresses on the remaining REM branches, with the Anse-à-l’Orme branch set to open in spring 2026 and the airport branch in 2027, connecting Pierre-Elliott Trudeau International Airport to the network.