Deux-Montagnes REM launches on Nov. 17: Here’s what riders need to know

A Réseau express métropolitain (REM) train makes its way towards downtown Montreal, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes

CDPQ Infra is set to launch the Deux-Montagnes branch of the REM on Monday, Nov. 17—here’s what passengers need to know.

When it opens, the REM will be available from 5:30 a.m. from both Deux-Montagnes and Brossard. Importantly, the last REM train heading to Deux-Montagnes in the evening will leave Brossard at 8:30 p.m. and Côte-de-Liesse station at 9 p.m.

“This will allow testing to continue in preparation for the launch of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch next spring. We encourage passengers to consult trip planners to plan their journeys,” the agency said in a Tuesday statement.

“The arrival of the Deux-Montagnes branch of the REM on the metropolitan network opens up new travel possibilities for thousands of people. The integration of this new branch will bring many changes, and our priority is to support passengers through this transition […]” said Benoit Gendron, director general of the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM), in a statement.

A redesigned bus network

The ARTM notes that the REM launch will be accompanied by a revamp of local bus networks, aimed at improving service across the region and encouraging new travel habits.

Changes include bus stops closer to residences, increased frequency, extended schedules (including evenings and weekends), optimized connections to employment, services and leisure hubs, and adjusted service to accommodate expected ridership growth.

“Partner teams will be deployed on the ground to inform and support passengers during this transition,” the ARTM said.

Starting Nov. 10, EXO will roll out its new network in the Laurentides sector, while the Société de transport de Laval (STL) will make adjustments to its bus network on Nov. 15.

“The Presqu’Île sector, served by the STM, will see its network revamped in spring 2026 following the launch of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch,” the ARTM continued.

Mitigation measures in place

CDPQ Infra and its partners have implemented mitigation measures to support passengers during the REM’s early operating period. Services introduced after the Deux-Montagnes train line closure will remain temporarily.

“These services provide direct connections parallel to the REM, between Deux-Montagnes and Sainte-Dorothée, Pierrefonds-Roxboro and Sunnybrooke, and Central Station or Côte-Vertu metro station,” the agency explained.

In case of an unplanned REM service interruption, these regular bus routes will provide backup mobility options for passengers.

“Passengers will be notified through announcements in the network, social media, banners in the Chrono mobile app, and text messages. Customer service agents will also be present throughout the network to answer questions and guide riders to bus services,” the ARTM said.

Between the launch of the REM at Deux-Montagnes and the opening of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch next spring, REM service between Deux-Montagnes and Brossard stations will run as follows: Brossard to Côte-de-Liesse from 5:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., and Côte-de-Liesse to Deux-Montagnes from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

“In addition to parallel bus services, the ARTM, in collaboration with public transit organizations, will deploy evening bus service after 9:30 p.m. to serve certain stations where REM service will no longer be available,” the agency added.

Fare information

An “All Modes A, AB, ABC, or ABCD” pass (depending on the zones you travel in) is required to access the REM.

“These passes give access to all public transit modes within the fare zone, allowing seamless travel,” the ARTM explained.

Passengers can also upgrade a monthly bus pass to an All Modes pass for use on the REM at metropolitan ticket offices, STM counters, and EXO sales points by paying the fare difference between the two passes.

The REM, which currently spans 67 km with 26 stations, aims to connect downtown Montreal, the South Shore, the West Island, the North Shore, and Montreal-Trudeau Airport.

Offering high-frequency service, the REM will operate seven days a week, 20 hours a day, and connect to Montreal’s three main metro lines.