Work begins to build Montréal’s largest public transport network

CDPQ Infra has announced the launch of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM), a project to build the largest public transportation network in Greater Montréal in 50 years.

Construction is expected to begin in April 2018, initial testing conducted at the end of 2020 with the first passengers boarding in the summer of 2021.

CDPQ Infra developed innovative solutions which enabled them to construct a sustainable, high-quality transport system whilst meeting the cost target of $0.72/passenger-km and accumulating a cost total that was less than five per cent different to the preliminary estimations.

Groupe NouvLR have won the infrastructure engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract whilst Groupe des Partenaires pour la Mobilité des Montréalais (PMM) have attained the provision of rolling stock, systems, operation and maintenance (RSSOM) contract. These two selected companies will harmonise their proposals in the next few months, finalise the schedule details and begin work in the spring.

“Since the very start of the project, less than two years ago, we have been meeting with the public, municipalities, transportation companies and other stakeholders,” said Michael Sabia, President and Chief Executive Officer of Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec. “We listened to their ideas and suggestions, which turned into innovative solutions and continuously improved our project. 

“Through hard work with the consortia, we met our objectives for the REM. The network will provide frequent and fast service, making the day-to-day easier for Greater Montréal. The return from this investment will benefit all Quebecers in their retirement and with around 65 per cent local content, Québec companies will be actively involved in building this new network.”

The dialogue established between stakeholders will continue throughout the project to ensure that the REM integrates harmoniously in the various communities. To that end, a project management office will be created to oversee the planning of all future work and its coordination with the partners. A community relations office will be created to maintain close communication with the public.

“We think it’s critical for the REM to contribute to the vitality of neighbourhoods by integrating harmoniously with innovative urban planning. We’re proposing an architectural concept based on this approach, and with the support of our partners and communities, the REM will be rooted in the metropolis. This is a major project for Greater Montréal residents, who are important to its success,” concluded Sabia.