CDPQ Infra confirms REM Deux-Montagnes branch commissioning in November

Following the dynamic testing carried out over the last few months, CDPQ Infra and the REM operator, GPMMOM (formed by Alstom and AtkinsRéalis) have confirmed that the Deux-Montagnes branch will be commissioned in November 2025. The exact date will be announced in the coming weeks, based on the dry run to test the REM throughout the day at the frequency and number of trains reflecting actual service. This represents the last phase before commercial service begins.  

The Anse-à-l’Orme branch will be commissioned next spring to allow the operator to gradually manage the addition of branches and cars on a network that will expand from 17 km to 67 km once the three branches are operational. With the addition of the Deux-Montagnes branch, the REM’s network operations will reach 50 km in November and include 19 stations.

This two-phase commissioning will also enable our operator to provide reliable service to users and continue testing on the Anse-à-l’Orme branch, while allowing the ARTM to implement feeder plans for REM stations. 

Deux-Montagnes branch hours of service  

Once the Deux-Montagnes branch is commissioned, hours of service will be comparable to those currently offered on the South Shore branch: 

• 5:30 a.m.: Service starts across the network
• Peak hours: Every five to seven minutes across the network
• Off-peak hours: From Brossard to Côte-de-Liesse, approximately every ten minutes until 1:30 a.m.
• Off-peak hours: From Brossard to Deux-Montagnes, approximately every ten minutes until 9:30 p.m.  

After 9:30 p.m., bus service between the Côte-de-Liesse and Deux-Montagnes stations will be provided by our partners. This schedule will allow us to continue the testing required for the integration of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch next spring.  

Network management during winter 

REM’s winter operations have been completely reviewed by the operator to ensure optimal operation during the cold season. Management of the winter braking system for trains has been improved, as have switch functioning and heating. A more efficient snow-clearing plan has been put in place, and more effective equipment, together with a maintenance plan specific to winter needs, will be ready to deploy at the first snow fall. 

New responsibilities for the REM operator 

Over the past few months, the operator, GPMMOM, began enhancing and continues to improve its capacity to intervene on the network and maintain effective communications with users. The operator has increased the number of employees dedicated to REM operations and maintenance. In the coming weeks, it will also take over all communications related to REM operations, whether directly with users, through social media or via the media. 

Interruption and feeder plan updated 

The feeder services to the REM stations opening in November offered by our partners will be phased in gradually:  

For Laval and the North Shore:  

• The STL, has already introduced new routes for commuters to travel to the Ste-Dorothée station.  
• exo will complete the reorganization of its routes by November 10. 

On the Island of Montreal:   

• The STM already has bus routes in place to take users to REM stations where there used to be a commuter train station. 

Quotes  

“There’s been a long wait for the Deux-Montagnes branch, so we’re delighted to confirm that it will be commissioned in November. We’re working tirelessly with our partners to provide users with a structuring means of transport that will be efficient for decades to come.” 

Jean-Marc Arbaud, President and Chief Executive Officer, CDPQ Infra 

“The last few months have shown that our teams are determined to become stronger in order to operate a large-scale network, and that it’s important to move forward step by step. This approach will enable us to ensure a quality experience that lives up to the expectations of the riders who will be adopting the REM starting in November.” 

Loïc Cordelle, General Manager, GPMMOM 

“The ARTM and its partners are excited about this major project, which will transform the way we travel in the metropolitan region. We’ve worked hard upstream to ensure that REM integrates seamlessly into the existing network. Our teams are fully mobilized to ensure a smooth start-up for the REM, with an efficient transition and quality service for users.” 

Philippe Dubé, Director, Operations and Equipment Management, ARTM