Montreal’s ambitious Réseau express métropolitain (REM) project continues to transform public transit in the city. While progress has been made, not all lines are arriving on schedule. CDPQ Infra has confirmed that the Deux-Montagnes branch of the REM will open this November, but the long-awaited Anse-à-l’Orme branch to the West Island will be delayed until spring 2026.
1. Overview of the REM Project
The REM is Canada’s largest automated light-rail network, designed to connect Montreal’s downtown core with surrounding regions. Once complete, the system will include 26 stations across 67 kilometres, making it one of the most ambitious transit projects in the country.
2. What’s Opening in November 2025
The Deux-Montagnes branch will begin operations this November, linking Central Station in downtown Montreal with the city’s northwest suburbs, just across the river from Laval.
3. The Anse-à-l’Orme Branch Delay
Unfortunately, commuters on Montreal’s West Island will need to wait longer. The Anse-à-l’Orme branch, which follows Highway 40, is now expected to open in spring 2026, nearly two years later than planned.
4. Why the Timeline Has Shifted
Originally, both branches were scheduled to launch by the end of 2024. The deadline was first postponed to fall 2025, but CDPQ Infra has now confirmed the West Island extension requires additional time.
5. Costs and Budget Updates
The REM project is estimated at $9.4 billion, about $2.4 billion over the original 2018 forecast. Despite delays, CDPQ Infra maintains that the cost per kilometre—around $150 million—remains lower than many Canadian transit projects, which often reach $300M–$400M per km.
6. Previous Challenges with the REM
The REM has faced operational criticism since its first five stations opened in July 2023, especially during the harsh winter when multiple stoppages frustrated passengers.
7. CDPQ Infra’s Response to Criticism
Jean-Marc Arbaud, president and CEO of CDPQ Infra, acknowledged passenger frustration but highlighted the project’s scale. “In seven years, no project in Canada has been completed on such a time frame on the same scale,” he noted.
8. Reliability Improvements for Winter
Loïc Cordelle, executive director of the Alstom–AtkinsRéalis consortium running the system, confirmed that staffing has been increased and technical problems have been fixed. The team expects a smoother winter season ahead.
9. Long-Term Vision of the REM Network
When completed, the REM will include:
- 26 stations
- 67 kilometres of track
- A direct link to Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, scheduled for fall 2027
10. What This Means for Montreal Commuters
For now, riders will benefit from the new Deux-Montagnes connection this year. However, West Island commuters will need alternative solutions until 2026.
11. Comparing Costs with Other Canadian Projects
Despite being over budget, the REM still delivers better cost efficiency compared to other Canadian light-rail projects, making it a model for large-scale urban transit expansion.
12. Conclusion – Building for the Future
While delays are frustrating, the REM remains a transformative project for Montreal. By 2027, it will connect major regions, the airport, and downtown with an efficient, automated system, reshaping how the city moves.