CDPQ's REM Project Is Now Operational

Jason Magder of the Montreal Gazette reports they're off: REM starts shuttling people across Montreal area:

They’ve been running with sandbags to simulate body weight for about a year, but on Friday, the trains on the Réseau express métropolitain began shuttling their first people.

The first new transit network since the Montreal métro in 1966 was inaugurated on Friday, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Premier François Legault and Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante on hand to mark the event.

“This proves we can accomplish great things when we work together,” Trudeau said at the ceremony in Brossard. “Efficient public transit improves the lives of people.”

Politicians cut the ribbon, then boarded the white and lime green trains with invited guests for their maiden voyage toward downtown’s Central Station on Friday morning under grey skies.

“It’s beautiful on the bridge to see Montreal,” Legault said. “It’s fast. I was surprised by how fast it was, and I hope that people stuck in traffic will have a big incentive to join the REM.”

The REM officially begins serving paying customers on Monday, July 31. It is expected to shuttle roughly 30,000 daily riders from Brossard to Central Station with stops at Panama, Du Quartier and Île-des-Soeurs. The 16.6-kilometre route is expected to take 18 minutes each way.

The REM has been tested regularly for the last year and more intensively over the last month, during which part of the system was struck by lightning, causing the trains to be delayed for a few minutes, Caisse CEO Charles Emond revealed during his speech Friday.

“It was an involuntary test, as we say, and the system responded very well,” Emond said of the event that occurred several days before inauguration. “It went back up just a few minutes after as expected. So we’re very happy to see this. The system is very robust.”

Trains were also interrupted for a period of several hours during the thunder and windstorm on July 13, when there was a tornado warning for the area.

The public can try out the new train this weekend, with an open house at all five stations and free rides between them, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

When completed, the REM will span 26 stations and cover 68 kilometres of the region, roughly doubling the reach of the Montreal métro. The REM is called a surface métro, and its four-car trains will run at a frequency of every three minutes and 45 seconds at peak periods, and every seven minutes and 30 seconds outside those hours. The trains will run 20 hours per day from around 5:30 a.m. to around 1 a.m. — or 1:30 a.m. on Saturday nights.

“It’s a fine example of our efforts to provide Quebecers with fast, environmentally friendly and practical public transportation infrastructure,” Legault said. “Serving citizens living in the suburbs, outside the city centres, is a major challenge and this is precisely what the REM will make possible. I’m confident that we’re heading in the right direction, and that if we provide Quebecers with modern, fast and efficient public transportation, more and more people will use it.”

It took five years to get to this point, and when they say construction projects come with surprises, the REM’s surprises were doozies. Few could have predicted a once-in-a-century pandemic or explosives left over from workers building the Mount Royal Tunnel 100 years ago.

The initial start date for the REM was pegged for the end of 2021, so Friday’s inauguration was two years late. No official start date has yet been set for the Deux-Montagnes branch in the North Shore or the Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue branch in the West Island, but planners are working on a 2024 target. The airport branch is expected for 2027.

Attending the ceremony Friday was former Quebec premier Philippe Couillard, who got the ball rolling on the REM by changing legislation to allow the Caisse to own and operate transit projects.

“It was done remarkably fast compared with other systems around the world, and there was lots of innovation coming with the project,” Couillard told the Montreal Gazette. “It still has to run, and I think we will all have a sigh of relief after a few months of operations if all goes well.”

Sarah Doyon, the director general of the Trajectoire Québec lobby group, said the cost overruns and construction delays pale in comparison with other major transit projects.

“We’re still far away from what we’ve seen with the Blue Line,” Doyon said, speaking about the 5.5-kilometre métro extension that has been promised since the 1980s, and is now due to be built by the end of this decade.

She said part of the reason the project faced cost overruns is because the province waits too long before committing serious funds to any project.

“If we were always in the process of adding new stations, it would allow us to eat the elephant one bite at a time,” she said. “It would be more feasible financially.”

During his speech, Legault recited a list of transit projects he would like to see in the province, including a pivotal transit link to the city’s east end. He said the federal government will have to dole out funds to help pay for those projects. 

“We know that eventually, we have to have electric transportation everywhere,” Legault said. “We have to do more in the next few years. I think it’s important that we do these projects, and of course we need the financing of the federal government.”

The REM’s South Shore Branch at a glance:

• 16.6 km of double track
• 13 four-car trains
• Five new stations
• Operating 20 hours per day
• Brossard to downtown Montreal in 18 minutes
• Trains every 3 minutes 45 seconds during peak hours, every 7 minutes 30 seconds otherwise
• Two new bridges (l’Île-des-Soeurs channel and Lachine Canal)
• A maintenance centre and control centre near the Brossard station

Sofia Misenheimer of MTL Blog also wrote about the REM's inaugural ride:

The world often seems slow to embrace change, but some moments arrive with a surge of speed. That's how it felt at the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) inaugural ceremony on July 28 when a Montreal REM train slid into view at Brossard station, forming the backdrop for federal and provincial leaders to herald the city's new era in public transportation.

The magnitude of the moment wasn't lost on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who declared, "This is the largest public transit project in Quebec in the last 50 years." Taking the stage, he underlined the importance of collective transport in reducing density and improving low-cost housing options.

"Our vision for the future is simple: make life easier and more affordable for people and protect the environment. The REM is helping us do all of those things at once," he said.

In practical terms, the REM will make travel between the South Shore and Montreal impressively swift, reducing what used to be a 40-minute car commute to 18 minutes. At opening, the train service will run every three minutes and 45 seconds, showcasing the efficiency of the 100% electric, zero-emission system.

"I'm proud today… Quebec is capable of leading great projects," said Quebec Premier François Legault, mirroring Trudeau's enthusiasm. "I invite residents to try [the REM]… and to participate in the fight against climate change," he said.

Residents can ride the REM for free on July 29 and 30, and pick up frozen treats and swag from a launch party downtown near Gare Centrale.

The REM has earned its status as an architectural marvel, ranking among the world's longest light rail systems. The impact on the environment is not to be underestimated: the REM could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 100,000 tonnes each year, tantamount to taking 30,000 cars off the roads every day.

The system is integrated with Montreal's existing Metro system but operates independently. Trains on the network will be fully automated and driverless. The first phase of the REM commissioning on July 31 runs between Brossard and Gare Centrale, encompassing Du Quartier, Panama, and Île-des-Sœurs stations. 

Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante dubbed the project a "revolution of transit in Quebec." Looking toward the future, she added, “If you build it, they will come," hinting at the potential for further electrification of the city's transport infrastructure. The REM, she said, will ensure a better quality of life for future generations.

Plante, Trudeau, and Legault, along with a slew of other dignitaries, cut the ribbon of the first publicly ridden REM train, before taking the front spot on its inaugural voyage.

The ride itself was nothing short of spectacular. The new trains are spacious with abundant standing room. The REM has been designed for high capacity while also ensuring a comfortable riding experience. Natural light pours in through large windows, lending the interior a bright, welcoming atmosphere.  

The onboard map video is a standout feature, providing real-time progress updates of the journey, and making it easy to anticipate the next stop. Meanwhile, an air conditioning system offers respite from the summer heat, while free WiFi keeps passengers connected on the go.

In motion, the REM's ride is smooth and quiet. The electric motors emit a soft hum that's barely noticeable. Occasional jerks when the train's powerful acceleration kicks in, mark a momentary break in the otherwise seamless journey.

The system's efficiency is apparent in the travel time between stations, taking no more than five minutes per stop. For those accustomed to the drudgery of traffic and slow commutes, the REM experience is sure to be a breath of fresh air. Racing past highway cars offers a satisfying thrill, with public transit taking the lead and setting a new pace.

Perhaps the most unforgettable part of the ride is the view. As the train rounded a bend from Nuns' Island, passengers are treated to a spectacular panorama of downtown Montreal.

The rails also pass right by the Lachine Canal and the iconic Farine Five Roses sign, offering a unique perspective on the industrial area. At night, or during fireworks, the ride will be especially memorable.

The hub of this part of the network, Gare Centrale, shares space with the Montreal Metro and Via Rail trains, featuring vast expanses between platforms to manage peak-hour rushes. It has been designed to handle considerable capacity, with each four-car train able to accommodate a maximum of 780 passengers.

Massive concrete "X" supports split the station down the middle, both functional and visually striking. Coupled with minimalist lighting, the cavernous Gare Centrale has an intriguing air of mystery and depth.

The station is within walking distance from both the orange and green lines, which means you can seamlessly transition from the STM to the REM. From there, you have access to tons of South Shore shops, cafés, and activities. 

The promise of quicker, easier access to downtown Montreal is likely to spark development in areas near stations. The REM could catalyze the revitalization of neighbourhoods, leading to new residential and commercial constructions.

The completion of the entire network, slated for 2027, will knit the Greater Montreal Area together like never before. You'll be able to get from downtown to Trudeau Airport in around 20 minutes and for a fraction of the cost of a taxi or Uber.

The REM is ushering in a new era of efficient, accessible, and sustainable public transit in Quebec. With the lime-coloured REM cars now officially carrying passengers, the way forward is indeed looking green.

On Friday, CDPQ put out a press release stating the REM is ready to welcome first passengers:

Today, with the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, Mr. François Legault, Premier of Québec and Ms. Valérie Plante, Mayor of Montréal in attendance, CDPQ and its subsidiary, CDPQ Infra, inaugurated the first branch of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM), connecting Brossard to Gare Centrale.

Dignitaries and members of the public took part in the first official trip on the 16.6‑km route connecting downtown Montréal to Brossard in 18 minutes.  

This major step marks the start of a new network that is efficient, reliable and will facilitate the daily travel of over 30,000 people as they go to work, school, leisure activities, appointments or to visit friends and family.

Once completed, the fully automated and electric REM will reduce GHG emissions by 100,000 tonnes per year. In addition, with an overall network of 67 kilometres, it will be the longest automated metro in the world.

The public is invited to experience the new light metro for free over the 
weekend of July 29–30. Activities will also be scheduled on Esplanade PVM at Place Ville Marie during the weekend to highlight this historic milestone. Regular service on the South Shore Branch will begin Monday, July 31.

Users can learn more details about the new service starting today by visiting the Travel section of the REM.info website.

Quotes

“The REM will transform the way people get around the Greater Montréal area. It is the largest public transportation project undertaken in Québec in the last 50 years, and will ensure that Montrealers and all Canadians benefit from a transportation service to Montréal-Trudeau International Airport that is both efficient and clean. We are a major partner in this major project.”
Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

“The REM will improve mobility in the Greater Montréal area. It’s a fine example of our efforts to provide Quebecers with fast, environmentally-friendly and practical public transportation infrastructure. Serving citizens living in the suburbs, outside the city centres, is a major challenge, and this is precisely what the REM will make possible. I’m confident that we’re heading in the right direction, and that if we provide Quebecers with modern, fast and efficient public transportation, more and more people will use it.”
François Legault, Premier of Québec

“A major milestone has just been reached in the realization of this brand new transportation system. It will have an impact on the daily lives of thousands of people in the Greater Montréal area, and we’re very proud of it. The REM speaks to our dual mandate, as it will generate significant economic benefits for Québec and each time passengers step on board, they will contribute to financing their retirement. It’s truly a signature project that will deliver tangible benefits starting today and for future generations.”
Charles Emond, President and Chief Executive Officer, CDPQ

“Taking an idea and bringing it to fruition is quite an accomplishment for the thousands of people who’ve worked tirelessly for 5 years now on building this major project for the greater metropolitan region. I’d like to personally thank all these REM artisans whose collective effort is now giving thousands of citizens access to a brand-new, sustainable, frequent and efficient mobility service.”
Jean-Marc Arbaud, President and Chief Executive Officer, CDPQ Infra

“The inauguration of the first segment of the REM marks an important milestone in the history of the metropolitan area, and the start into a new era of mobility in Montréal. This new structural link is one of the keys to ensuring the vitality of our downtown and, eventually, to redeveloping and densifying the Bridge-Bonaventure area. This ambitious project is part of our vision for a more accessible and resilient metropolitan area for future generations.”
Valérie Plante, Mayor of the Ville de Montréal

“The opening of the REM is a historic moment, a true revolution in the way we get around collectively and in how we think about the future of our cities. In Brossard, the three REM stations are major development hubs and living environments that will quickly become prime locations. Imagine leaving the Brossard terminal, crossing the deck of the new Samuel-De Champlain Bridge and arriving at Montréal’s Gare Centrale Station, all in just a few minutes. Brossard is very proud to have this innovative public transit project within its city limits. It’s a source of pride to us all!”
Doreen Assaad, Mayor of Brossard

“The commissioning of this first segment of the REM marks the beginning of a new era in mobility. This unprecedented mode of transportation, which will be integrated into the various existing networks, will change how we travel in the Greater Montréal area. CDPQ Infra and its partners have every reason to be proud of the work they have accomplished. I encourage members of the public to come aboard and discover for themselves the many benefits of this project.”
Geneviève Guilbault, Deputy Premier of Québec, Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility

“The arrival of the REM, the largest public transportation project in Québec since the opening of the metro in 1966, will bring lasting changes to the mobility of citizens travelling between the South Shore and Montréal. It’s the culmination of a colossal effort by the metropolitan region’s partners – exo, RTL and STM – which have revised their bus networks to ensure fully integrated services. Our teams are ready to welcome users so that they’ll have the best experience possible and to encourage them to adopt this modern, 100% electric mode of transportation.”
Benoit Gendron, Director General of the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM)

“We are proud and pleased to launch the REM with the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec. What a joy it is to develop Alstom’s latest driverless metro technologies in Québec and to support the City of Montréal in its effort to decarbonize mobility to make our world and cities easier to live in, greener and more environmentally friendly. We deeply thank CDPQ for their continuous support here in Montréal and beyond as Alstom main shareholder.”
Henri Poupart-Lafarge, Chairman and CEO of Alstom

“Building the REM is much more than construction or engineering; it represents an opportunity to build the future. To this end, we brought together more than 4,000 men and women of 59 different nationalities. I’d like to extend my warmest thanks to them and their families, without whom none of our efforts would have been possible. We are very grateful for the collaboration of GPMM and the support received from our partners (SNC-Lavalin, Dragados, Aecon, Pomerleau and EBC) and, above all, for the exceptional leadership and resilience of CDPQ Infra.”
Jaime Freyre, Project Manager, NouvLR consortium

“We are proud of our investment in the REM, one of Canada’s most important transit infrastructure projects, whose initial opening will relieve congestion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Montréal. Initial operations of our first and largest investment demonstrate the impact of our work. This is one of nearly 30 investments by the Canada Infrastructure Bank that are under construction or in development across the country.”
Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank

“The launch of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) clearly shows how the electrification of transportation is not only about individual electric vehicles. Electric public transportation is an essential pillar of a low-carbon economy, and Hydro-Québec is honoured to have played a crucial role in this project.”
Claudine Bouchard, Executive Vice President, Chief Infrastructure and Energy System Officer at Hydro‑Québec

About the REM

The Réseau express métropolitain (REM) is a new, integrated public transportation network with 26 stations spanning 67 kilometres that connects downtown Montréal, the South Shore, the West Island, the North Shore and the Montréal-Trudeau Airport through a light metro service that is fully automated and electric. Offering high-frequency service, the REM will operate seven days per week, 20 hours per day, and will have connections to the three main metro lines in Montréal.

The REM’s South Shore Branch at a glance:

• 16.6 km of double track
• Thirteen four-car trains 
• Five new stations 
• Operating 20 hours per day
• Brossard to downtown Montréal in 18 minutes
• Frequency varies from every 3 minutes 45 seconds during peak hours to every 7 minutes 30 seconds outside of peak hours
• Integration of a sustainable and structuring transportation system on the Samuel-De Champlain Bridge 
• Two new bridges (l’Île-des-Sœurs channel and Lachine Canal)
• A maintenance centre and control centre using cutting-edge technology

The launch of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) is a huge deal seven years in the making (officially launched back in 2016).

CDPQ has a dual mandate to support the local Quebec economy and generate returns to meet future liabilities. 

It is also a leader in sustainable finance and the REM is a huge reason why as it is the largest infrastructure project in sustainable transport in North America.

The genesis of the REM, of course, goes back to CDPQ's former CEO, Michael Sabia, the current CEO of Hydro Quebec.

The REM was always "Michael Sabia's baby" and he merits the acknowledgment and credit.

Michael wasn't there with the rest of the dignitaries but he should have been.

But Macky Tall, the former head of liquid markets and CDPQ's Infrastructure group was there (my mistake, earlier version of this comment said he wasn't present):

Macky and Michael both worked hard to hire the right people to do this project properly.

And here is where I will give CDPQ Infra's CEO, Jean-Marc Arbaud, and his entire team the credit they rightly deserve.

They pulled it off, a little late but largely on time and more importantly, on budget.

As the Gazette article states, decades later, Montreal's 5.5 km Blue Line is still being built, and is delayed and costing taxpayers billions in cost overruns.

That is what happens when you dig underground, you run into major issues, delays and costs balloon.

For the most part, the REM sidestepped all this and that is why it is now operational, five years after it was inaugurated.

This isn't just impressive, it's astounding, and if the City of Montreal and the province of Quebec agreed to build the REM de l'Est and allowed CDPQ Infra to complete this project (on its terms), then the city would have been even better off.

There will be other major infrastructure projects in Quebec but the REM is a miracle, one financed in large part by Quebec's pensioners and contributors and the project was overseen entirely by CDPQ Infra.

Let that sink in for a second, a subsidiary of CDPQ built the longest automated electric metro in the world.

This subsidiary is unique and has proven if done right, greenfield infrastructure projects are possible at large pension funds (not easy, that is for sure, but possible).

Anyways, I know the REM shut down today on its first official day because some switch got stuck but it took one hour and 15 minutes to get the service up and running again:

Lacroix said within 30 minutes of the train stalling, a contingency plan kicked in. Twenty buses on the South Shore were on standby to shuttle passengers from the Brossard station to downtown Montreal.

 “We were ready. It’s unfortunate it’s on the first day but we were ready,” said Maxime Laliberte, a spokesperson for the Reseau Transport de Longueuil. “We always have drivers on the side waiting in case there are issues. There are approximately 20 buses going station to station.”

There will always be some glitches along the way, it's still early days, but the REM is now operational and will forever transform Montreal for the better.

All Quebecers should be proud of this monumental achievement, especially since their pension contributions helped finance it and their pension fund ran the entire project from A to Z.

Below, Montreal's Réseau Express Métropolitain is the new driverless light rail system that experts say will transform the city. It opened to dignitaries and transit enthusiasts on Friday, but the real test comes when Monday's commute arrives.

And after seven years in the making, Montreal's multi-billion-dollar light-rail, the REM, officially opened on Monday Morning. As Amanda Jelowicki reports, after just a few hours into its first day, the light-rail's system suffered a couple significant glitches that forced passengers to disembark and take shuttle buses into the city (all weekend it was operating smoothly).

Lastly, City News reports while some were disappointed when the city’s new light-rail train network reached a capacity limit on its opening day, those who got to ride the REM were nothing but smiles.