Public transport infrastructure in Laval, Quebec receives new investment

Fourteen projects being carried out by the Société de transport de Laval (STL), under the Canadian government’s Public Transit Infrastructure Fund, will receive funding of over $26.8 million.

The Government of Canada is providing more than $14.9 million for these projects and the Government of Quebec is contributing over $11.9 million, with the STL providing the remaining funds.

North of Montreal, with a recorded population of 422,993 in 2016, the investments have the potential to transform the city’s transport network; positively affecting many residents and commuters. Investing in public transport infrastructure is crucial to economic growth, the reduction of air pollution and creation of inclusive communities where everyone has access to public services and job opportunities.

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue, said: “Modern efficient public transit infrastructure plays an important role in the development of sustainable communities and the growth of the middle class. By investing in projects such as these in Laval, the Government of Canada is helping communities across Quebec improve residents’ mobility, meet increasing demand and provide key amenities to encourage economic development.”

Among the projects being funded is the purchase of buses to expand the fleet and maintain its average age. The funding will also be used to install equipment for the first deployment of a fully electric bus line and add new technologies to streamline boarding for passengers.

Éric Morasse, Vice-President of the Board of Directors of the Société de transport de Laval, said: “The STL is very grateful for this new show of confidence from the Canadian and Quebec governments. We are particularly excited about this new set of projects, many of which will mark the history of the STL, notably in terms of electrification. The 14 approved projects will allow the STL not only to modernise its equipment, but also to maintain its status as a leader in providing passengers with real-time information. The goal is to provide service that is always more efficient and viable than solo driving.” 

This work will improve the performance, efficiency and reliability of Laval’s public transport network; making it more inclusive and allowing the STL to meet the community’s immediate needs while preparing for anticipated future increases in ridership.

Francine Charbonneau, Minister Responsible for the Laval Region, said: “The Government of Quebec’s investment, together with that of the Government of Canada and the Société de transport de Laval, will greatly improve transit flow and the user experience. These projects will contribute to Laval’s economic growth while improving air quality and residents’ quality of life. These environmentally responsible alternatives to car travel will make Laval an ideal choice for families and workers seeking a modern, sustainable and safe lifestyle.” 

Marc Demers, Mayor of Laval, said: “Public transport is at the heart of our strategies. The City of Laval is pleased with the funding provided by the Canadian and Quebec governments for the STL to carry out innovative projects, primary objective of which is to make public transport more attractive to Laval residents. This series of projects, made possible through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF), is an integral part of our efforts to promote active and public transportation while decreasing our greenhouse gas emissions. This is definitely a step in the right direction.”