The east end of Montréal will have its own Réseau express métropolitain

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This morning, two years after the signature of the declaration to revitalize the east end of Montréal, the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (through its subsidiary CDPQ Infra) has unveiled, together with the Gouvernement du Québec and the Ville de Montréal, a new Réseau express métropolitain (REM) project for the sector. This new public transit project, consisting of 32 km of light rail and 23 new stations, will meet a historic demand in Montréal’s east end and, together with the entire REM project, create one of the largest automated transit networks in the world, with 99 km of rail and 49 stations. Following the Québec government’s mandate, this transit solution was identified after a thorough study of the technical and economic aspects. This study confirms that the project is viable: it meets the transportation needs of local communities, and allows CDPQ to generate the necessary returns to meet the expectations of its depositors while supporting Québec’s economic recovery in the years to come. Significant economic impacts and benefits for communities This brand new network represents an investment of approximately $10 billion, the largest amount ever invested in a public transit project in Québec. During the construction period, this investment will create more than 9 000 direct and indirect jobs per year. Ultimately, by accommodating more than 133,000 users per day, REM de l’Est will improve the quality of life of hundreds of thousands of people and will support the development of numerous public spaces, while strengthening various types of economic activity and knowledge in this territory. Furthermore, by offering a fast and reliable alternative transit on the island of Montréal, this new, 100% electric network will save the city more than 35,000 tonnes of GHGs each year. false false false When added to existing transit systems (metro, trains and buses), the REM will complete an integrated, competitive and environmentally friendly transit system across greater Montréal area—one that reflects a 21st-century vision. An architectural signature for integration with the downtown area Numerous studies were conducted to establish the route which the REM de l’Est will take; they resulted in the development of new north–south and east–west travel axes, while adding a new light rail line in the heart of downtown Montréal between the metro’s orange and green lines. The addition of four stations in the René-Lévesque Boulevard corridor, which is a busy and strategic artery, will significantly improve transit options for downtown. The elevated structure and stations will receive special attention in their architectural treatment, to ensure they endow downtown Montréal with a modern and symbolic aesthetic. An advisory committee will be set up in collaboration with the Ville de Montréal so recommendations can be submitted prior to project design, with the aim of maximizing the network’s architectural integration into the communities along its route. Well-known experts in urban planning, architecture, heritage, arts and culture, business and the environment will sit on the panel and provide their input. Architectural firms from Québec will also be mandated to ensure the structures and stations integrate harmoniously with the existing environment. Next steps and factors for success Today’s launch marks the start of a consultation process, one that includes a tour to discuss the matter with the general public, civil society and with all project stakeholders. In the coming months, during every stage of the project, CDPQ Infra will maintain an ongoing dialogue through active, regular and transparent communication. CDPQ Infra will set up technical workshops with the relevant authorities so as to enhance and optimize the project. The REM de l’Est project will be submitted to the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE) for review as early as 2021. In managing this project, CDPQ Infra will act with strict due diligence throughout the procurement process, and its governance structure will be inspired, as in the past, by global best practices for efficiency and transparency. The public is invited to consult the new online section for this project at cdpqinfra.com/en and to follow the project stages by subscribing to our newsletter. The media are also invited to consult the technical presentation and can access all the visuals and videos in the media kit. Follow the project on Twitter @CDPQInfra false false false