Montreal Metro

Montreal Metro
Name	Montreal Metro
Caption	An MR-73 train at Berri-UQAM station.
Locale	Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Transit type	Rapid transit
Began operation	14 October 1966
Stations	68
Ridership	1,111,700 (weekday average, 2023)
Operator	Société de transport de Montréal
Vehicles	909
System length	69.2 km
Track gauge	sg
El	Third rail, 750 V DC

Montreal Metro. The Montreal Metro is a rapid transit system serving the city of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Operated by the Société de transport de Montréal, it opened in 1966 as part of the city's preparations for Expo 67. The system is renowned for its rubber-tyred metro technology, distinctive architecture, and extensive integration with the city's underground city.

History

The system's development was championed by Montreal Mayor Jean Drapeau and his executive committee chairman, Lucien Saulnier. Initial plans were influenced by studies of the Paris Métro and the Chicago "L", leading to the adoption of rubber-tyred metro technology from the RATP Group. Construction began in 1962, with the first line opening in time for Expo 67, a catalyst for major urban renewal projects like Place Bonaventure and Place Ville-Marie. Subsequent expansions, including the Orange Line to Laval and the Blue Line, were shaped by political decisions from the Quebec government and funding agreements with the Government of Canada.

Network and stations

The network consists of four lines identified by colour: the Green Line, Orange Line, Yellow Line, and Blue Line. Key interchange stations include the tri-station hub of Berri-UQAM, Lionel-Groulx, and Snowdon. Stations are celebrated for their unique architecture and public art, with designs by noted architects like Victor Prus and Jean-Maurice Dubé, and artworks integrated per the government's Percent for Art policy. The system directly connects to major institutions such as Université de Montréal, McGill University, and Place-des-Arts.

Rolling stock

The fleet exclusively uses rubber-tyred metro trains, operating on roll ways with guide bars and powered by a third rail. The original MR-63 cars, built by Canadian Vickers, served from 1966 until their retirement after the 2014 Lac-Mégantic rail disaster. They were replaced and supplemented by the MR-73 model from Bombardier Transportation and the new Azur trains, also built by Bombardier Transportation in partnership with Alstom. All maintenance is performed at the Angrignon and Beaugrand garages.

Operation and services

The system operates daily from approximately 5:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., with extended service during events like the Montreal International Jazz Festival. It is managed by the Société de transport de Montréal and is fully integrated with the ARP fare system, which includes connections to Exo commuter trains and the Réseau express métropolitain. Special event services are run for games involving the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre and for festivals at Quartier des Spectacles.

Infrastructure and technology

The Metro is notable for its use of a rubber-tyred metro system on a track gauge of , with trains running on roll ways made of rolled steel and guided by horizontal guide wheels. It utilizes a third rail for its 750 V DC electrification and features extensive ventilation and smoke evacuation systems. The tunnels were primarily constructed using the cut-and-cover method beneath streets like Rue Sainte-Catherine and Boulevard de Maisonneuve. Its operations control centre is located at the Beaugrand garage.

Cultural impact and legacy

The Metro is a defining symbol of Montreal's modern identity and a key facilitator of its famous underground city, connecting major complexes like Complexe Desjardins and Eaton Centre. Its station architecture and integrated public art, including works by Marcelle Ferron and Jean-Paul Mousseau, have received international acclaim. The system's design and success influenced subsequent rapid transit projects in Canada, such as the SkyTrain and the Réseau express métropolitain. It remains central to daily life in the city, featured prominently in films, literature, and cultural discourse.

Category:Rapid transit in Canada Category:Transport in Montreal Category:Railway companies established in 1966