Montreal’s transit agency, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), has released details of a major redesign of its bus network across the Centre-North and West Island. It’s part of a multi-year effort to modernize surface transit and better integrate with the expanding Réseau express métropolitain (REM) light rail system. The overhaul, described by the STM as the largest in its history, is set to affect nearly 80 routes across six boroughs and nine neighbouring cities when it launches this spring in coordination with the opening of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch of the REM. The STM says the change will improve public transit services for some 375,000 people. See the modified lines here. New stops, shorter trips According to STM’s project page, there should be widespread impacts in local communities with the addition of 246 new stops and 14,000 simplified transfers (one less bus to take). It says 29,000 people will be able to reach a high-frequency bus line within a 750-metre walk, and 67,000 trips will be shortened by at least five minutes. Ride and route changes Service increases and route simplifications are designed to make bus travel more direct and predictable, the STM notes. The redesign is expected to increase service on 15 routes, as well as extend evening and weekend hours on four. READ MORE: West Island bus-route revamp raising concerns among residents It is also set to introduce eight entirely new routes and simplify service on 24 existing lines to reduce overlap and improve connections to major transit hubs like REM stations. The STM’s planning work included more than 150 meetings with municipal and community partners, as well as webinars and consultations to collect feedback on neighbourhood needs. Launch time and preparations The STM says it plans to roll out the redesigned network as of March 23, though the exact date will depend on the operational readiness of the REM’s Anse-à-l’Orme branch. As the new bus network prioritizes connections with the REM, the STM says it cannot implement changes until all is available to riders. Urban infrastructure work is already underway in affected areas to support the changes, and temporary signage is being installed at stops, stations and terminals. Getting ready to ride To help customers prepare, the STM says it is launching a communication campaign ahead of the official launch. Tools include an online trip simulator to visualize future bus journeys, a detailed webpage with route maps and information and outreach like information kiosks, public meetings and a multi-channel advertising effort across transit and social media platforms. “We are aware that an adaptation period will follow the network changes,” said Aref Salem, chair of the STM board of directors. “We want every customer to be able to understand and explore their new travel options.”
