Tour de l’Île: Montrealers asked to clear streets for major cycling event

Montreal’s biggest yearly cycling events, the Tour la Nuit and Tour de l’Île, are upon us, and the city is asking residents to plan their commutes in advance.

Both events will take place east of Pie-IX Boulevard.

Friday’s Tour la Nuit will cause road closures between 7 p.m. and midnight.

City spokesperson Philippe Sabourin said those living along the race’s path will have to move their cars by 1 p.m. or they may be towed.

The city created a map highlighting the areas that will need to be cleared. No parking signs are already in place.

“For shoppers, if you have the habit to go with your car to do groceries Friday night, please do it before 7:30 p.m., otherwise it could turn into a nightmare. So, you don’t want that. Plan your move,” Sabourin said.

Those along the Tour de l’Île path will have to move their cars by the end of Saturday night to make sure the street is clear for Sunday’s activities.

Road closures are expected between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Though businesses and residents have already been made aware of the road closures, the city is urging people to use the Waze app or Avis et Alerte to plan their weekend commuting.

Sabourin said those who plan to use their cars over the weekend should move them out of the highlighted area in advance.

The downtown area and the west side of the city should not be affected, Sabourin said.

“It’s been months of planning, nothing is left to chance,” he said.

Vélo Québec president Jean-François Rheault said those who live in the eastern part of the city should use Highway 40 to get around.

STM shuttles will also be in place, as many bus routes will be detoured.

This year marks the event’s 40th anniversary, and cyclists can still sign up to participate. The Tour de l’Île is one of the city’s biggest international summer events.

This year’s theme is the ‘80s, with participants encouraged to play music and wear clothing to match the era.

“We’re proud of this event,” said Sabourin. “We want this to be a festive, fun and pleasant event for everyone.”

Rheault says people have told him they feel more inspired to ride their bikes after participating in the Tour de l’Île, which he finds encouraging.

“[Cycling] is a simple solution to complex problems – it’s good for mobility, for the environment and for health. It’s also good for the economy,” he said.

Thousands are expected to participate in the two events.