REM’s Anse-à-l’Orme branch set to open May 18, with major transit changes across Montreal

The western expansion of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) is on track to open May 18, marking a major milestone for public transit in the Greater Montreal area.

The new Anse-à-l’Orme branch, led by CDPQ Infra, is expected to begin service that day pending final testing. Once operational, trains will run daily from 5:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. in both directions.

“In concrete terms, the opening of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch of the REM means more choice to get around, without paying more. The important thing for the ARTM and its partners is that this new service integrates well with the rest of the network and that people can take full advantage of this new service, from day one,” said Benoit Gendron, Director General of the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain.

The Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM) says the launch comes after months of coordination with regional partners to ensure the new line integrates smoothly into the existing transit network.

The opening will also trigger a major redesign of bus routes across the West Island, with both Société de transport de Montréal (STM) and exo rolling out updated networks to better connect riders to the REM and key destinations.

“The commissioning of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch marks another important step in the deployment of the REM across the metropolis. This opening is the result of significant coordination work with all mobility partners in order to deliver a ready, integrated infrastructure that serves users’ daily journeys. We welcome the level of readiness of the partner networks, which is essential to ensure a smooth transition as soon as the EMN goes live,” said Denis Andlauer, Vice-President, Transportation Strategies, CDPQ Infra.

Transit officials say the goal is to improve service coverage, create more direct routes and strengthen links between buses, the metro and commuter trains.

Fares for the REM will remain fully integrated into the metropolitan system, meaning riders can use existing all-mode passes without paying extra, depending on their travel zones.

Authorities are also warning commuters that, in the event of service disruptions, replacement bus service will be limited compared to the REM’s capacity, and delays should be expected during peak periods.

To help riders adjust, information staff will be deployed at stations and new trip-planning tools and communication campaigns are being rolled out ahead of the launch.

Officials say the entire transit network is mobilized to ensure a smooth transition as the REM continues to expand across the region.