Written by: Juan David Rodriguez Torres
Edited by: Louis Chenot
Montreal is embracing a bold vision for a greener, more sustainable future by reimagining how its residents move through the second biggest city in Canada. As climate change compels cities worldwide to take decisive action, Montreal is reducing its car dependency and creating an efficient, inclusive, and environmentally conscious transportation system.
Crucial to this transformation is integrating bicycles into the city’s transportation network, expanding friendly pedestrian infrastructure, and enhancing public mobility through its metro, bus, and light rail systems. Montreal has invested heavily in its biking infrastructure, including protected bike lanes and its renowned bike-sharing system, BIXI. These improvements make cycling a safer and more attractive option for daily commutes (Otak, 2023). At the same time, main streets like Sainte-Catherine and Saint-Denis have been redesigned to prioritize pedestrians and cyclists, creating public spaces that promote social interactions and community engagement while reducing car dependency (CityNews Montreal, 2024).
A significant component of Montreal’s public transport improvements is the Réseau express métropolitain (REM), an electric light rail system under construction that promises to revolutionize urban and suburban transit. The REM will connect Montreal’s island to surrounding regions with 26 stations and 67 kilometres of track, drastically reducing commute times and offering a reliable alternative to car travel (CityNews Montreal, 2024). By minimizing reliance on personal vehicles, the REM is also expected to improve air quality and decrease greenhouse gas emissions, making it a cornerstone of the city’s sustainability strategy. Alongside the REM, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) continues to modernize its bus and metro systems by incorporating electric and hybrid vehicles and increasing the frequency of service, ensuring public transit remains efficient, accessible, and attractive for new users (CityNews Montreal, 2024).
Efficient public transportation has far-reaching benefits by reducing commute times, traffic congestion, and individual transportation costs and improving air quality by curbing emissions (Eco-Counter, 2022). These systems help decrease reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with Montreal’s climate objectives and global efforts to combat climate change. Furthermore, investment in public transit creates economic opportunities, from construction jobs to increased activity around transit hubs, boosting employment (Otak, 2023).
Active transportation, such as walking and biking, complements public transit by encouraging healthier, more vibrant communities. Pedestrian-friendly environments foster stronger social connections, promote physical and mental health, and enhance local economies by drawing more foot traffic to local shops and restaurants (Eco-Counter, 2022; Otak, 2023). Montreal’s redesigning its streets to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists reflects its understanding that sustainable mobility enhances transportation and the overall quality of urban life (CityNews Montreal, 2024).
To further discourage car use, Montreal has explored reducing parking spaces and exploring Congestion pricing while providing incentives for adopting electric vehicles (EVs). However, the city recognizes that equity is central to these changes. By improving transit access for low-income and marginalized communities, Montreal aims to create a fair and inclusive urban environment where everyone benefits from sustainability initiatives (CityNews Montreal, 2024).
Montreal’s shift toward a car-free, sustainable future comes with challenges, such as balancing new developments with the city’s architectural heritage and integrating diverse transit systems seamlessly. Yet, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and leadership. By investing in green policies, Montreal sets an example for other cities worldwide, demonstrating that sustainability is possible and transformative.
This approach to sustainable mobility is more than just about moving people; it is about improving lives, fostering community, and building a future where urban spaces prioritize people over cars. As Montreal continues on this path, it is paving the way for a city where sustainability and livability go hand in hand.
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References:
Chapalain, R. (2022, April 12). Understanding the impact of pedestrianization in Montreal. Eco-Counter. https://www.eco-counter.com/blog/pedestrianization-montreal-qc/
Staff, O. (2023, August 31). Benefits of Active Transportation: Walking, Biking, and Healthy Community Design. Otak. https://www.otak.com/blog/benefits-of-active-transportation-walking-biking-healthy-community-design/
Sustainable Montreal 2016-2020. (n.d.). Retrieved January 15, 2025, from http://numerique.banq.qc.ca/
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