Réseau électrique métropolitain de Montréal (Montreal LRT)

construction start

Opportunity The City of Montreal is procuring a new automated public transit system. The investment, which is the largest since the Montréal metro was inaugurated in 1966, will offer integrated, reliable service and foster environmentally sustainable transportation. The system will link several suburbs with Downtown Montreal via Central Station. It involves the conversion of the existing Deux-Montagnes commuter rail line to rapid transit standards. A station at Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport will serve as the terminus of one of the four branches. The 67 km (42 mi) light rail system is projected to cost CA$6.3 billion. It will be independent of—but connected to—the existing Montreal Metro, operated by the STM. Trains on the network are expected to be fully automated and driverless, and it would become the fourth longest automated transportation system in the world, after the Singapore Mass Rapid Transit, Vancouver Skytrain, and Dubai Metro. Out of the $6.3 billion price tag, CDPQ Infra is taking 70% equity at $2.95 billion, Government of Quebec is taking 30% at 1.28 billion, Canada Infrastructure Bank is providing a $1.28 billion 15 year senior loan. Hydro Quebec ($295 million commerial agreement) and ARTM payment of ($512 million for land capture) are also included.  More than 34,000 direct and indirect jobs are expected to be created during the project’s construction, and more than 1,000 permanent jobs would be created upon completion. Economic benefits during the construction phase are estimated to reach close to $3.7 billion. It is estimated that REM would reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 35,000 tonnes within its first year of operations. Innovations This was the first project the Canada Infrastructure Bank invested into since it was created. The Canada Infrastructure Bank's $1.28-billion investment will take the form of a 15-year senior secured loan at a rate starting at 1% escalating to 3% over the term of the loan.   “The REM is one of the most ambitious public transportation projects in our history. In addition to making it quicker and easier for millions of Quebec residents to get around, the REM will reduce the number of cars on the roads, help ease traffic and make the air cleaner. The announcement today represents a big step toward improving the quality of life of Canadians and their families, creating good, well-paying jobs for the middle class and growing the economy.” — The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada “The Government of Canada is proud to be a partner in this important project for Montréal and for Quebec. Once complete, the project will help reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions, and make it easier for residents to connect with the services they need.” — The Hon. Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

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