Project Profile: Reseau Express Metropolitain (REM), Montreal

The Reseau Express Metropolitain (REM) is one of North America’s largest automated transit projects, establishing a 67-kilometre, fully driverless light rail network across the Greater Montreal Area. Engineered to integrate with existing public transit, the REM provides high-frequency service connecting downtown Montreal with its suburbs, key economic zones, and the international airport. This profile details the technical specifications, key contractors, and strategic objectives of this transformative infrastructure initiative.

Technical Specifications

The REM’s network architecture is designed for high-capacity, high-frequency service. The system operates on a dedicated right-of-way, utilizing a combination of elevated guideways, at-grade tracks, and tunnels to bypass urban congestion. Propulsion is fully electric, drawing power from Hydro-Quebec’s grid. The entire 67-km network is governed by Alstom’s Urbalis 400 Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, enabling Grade-of-Automation 4 (GoA4) driverless operation. This technology allows for headways as short as 3 minutes 45 seconds during peak periods, monitored from the Iconis central control centre. The rolling stock consists of 212 Alstom Metropolis light metro cars, configured into four-car trainsets with a design capacity of 780 passengers. Each car features panoramic windows, climate control, real-time information systems, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Key Takeaways

• Advanced Automation: The REM is a benchmark project for implementing a large-scale, fully automated (GoA4) transit network in North America, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
• Innovative Financing Model: The project is primarily financed and managed by CDPQ Infra, a subsidiary of a major pension fund, representing a successful public-private partnership model for delivering large-scale infrastructure.
• Sustainability and Economic Impact: By running on electric power, the REM is projected to reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions by 2.5 million tonnes over 25 years while creating over 30,000 jobs during its construction phase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the full REM network be open?

The REM is opening in phases. The first phase, connecting Brossard to Gare Centrale, became operational in July 2023. The remaining branches connecting Deux-Montagnes, Anse-à-l’Orme, and the Montreal-Trudeau Airport are scheduled to be completed and fully operational by 2027.

Who is building the REM in Montreal?

The REM project is delivered by two main consortiums. The infrastructure, including tunnels, tracks, and stations, is being built by Groupe NouvLR, which includes SNC-Lavalin and other major construction firms. The trains, signaling systems, and operations are managed by Groupe PMM, a partnership between Alstom and SNC-Lavalin.