The bus network in the West Island and Centre-North areas is set to be redesigned to coincide with the launch of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) branch to the city’s west end. The redesigned network will launch on May 18, the same day as the opening of the REM’s Anse-à-l’Orme branch in the West Island, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) confirmed on Monday. The STM said the network transformation affects almost 80 routes spanning six boroughs and nine cities on the Island of Montreal. The redesign was a multi-year effort and was described by the STM as the largest in its history. “While the arrival of a new REM branch in the area represents a unique opportunity for the STM to rethink its network, the bus network overhaul aims to improve the customer experience, adapt to current and future mobility needs, align the bus network with the arrival of the REM, and make it more efficient and attractive,” the transit agency said in a news release on Monday. The STM said customers will take advantage of the redesign by having more connections to the REM network, additional service on 15 routes, with four of them offering extended service on evenings and weekends, and eight new routes. To help users navigate the new bus network, the STM offers an online route simulator and a website with maps and information on the routes. Information booths and public meetings will also be available to inform the public. More information is available on the STM website. The new REM branch opening next month will extend the light-rail network by 14 kilometres with four new stations. Do the new bus routes have an impact on your life? Share your story with us: montrealdigitalnews@bellmedia.ca
