CDPQ Infra has signed an agreement with Canadian National Railway (CN) to advance the Réseau Electrique Métropolitain (REM) project.

The deal will help development of the REM project, which is intended to link four metropolitan rail lines with Central Station (Viaduc du Sud) acting as the intermodal hub. 

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

As part of the deal, CDPQ Infra will acquire the aerial structure leading to Central Station from CN, allowing REM to access the station directly. 

It will also allow the REM to use Central Station and run under CN’s tracks in the Pointe-Saint-Charles sector.

"The partnership seeks to improve the fluidity and efficiency of transportation in the Greater Montréal area."

The agreement also allows for the use of existing structures and reduces the need to build parallel tracks and close multiple streets.

CDPQ Infra president and chief executive officer Macky Tall said: "This agreement crystalises the vision we had for the REM, that of a unified system, integrated into the urban fabric. We are truly grateful for CN’s collaboration in helping us find solutions, particularly in facilitating the REM’s access to Central Station, the network hub.

"This speaks to the seriousness and commitment of a partner who, like us, seeks to improve the fluidity and efficiency of transportation in the Greater Montréal area."

According to the company, the deal will help in acquiring land, buildings, structures, bridges and rail infrastructure between Bridge and Saint-Antoine Streets in a central area of Montréal.

CN Corporate Development vice-president Janet  Drysdale said: "Considering the key role played by rail transportation in the fight against climate change, CN is proud to be able to facilitate the implementation of this major project that will benefit and develop the Greater Montréal area."

It is reported that the three operators of passenger services that use Central Station, the AMT-Mont-Saint-Hilaire line, Amtrak and VIA Rail, are not expected to be affected by its acquisition.