Montreal is bracing for significant traffic disruptions on May 14, 2026, as a combination of a Montreal Canadiens hockey game and ongoing construction projects will lead to multiple road closures across the city. Drivers are advised to plan alternate routes and expect delays.
Game Day Impact
The Canadiens are scheduled to play at the Bell Centre, drawing thousands of fans downtown. Roads around the arena, including Rue de la Gauchetière and Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal, will be closed or restricted starting in the early afternoon. Authorities recommend using public transit to avoid congestion.
Construction Closures
Several major construction projects are also contributing to the closures. Work on the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) and other infrastructure projects will close lanes on highways and key arteries. The Highway 20 and Highway 40 interchanges will see partial closures, as will sections of Rue Sherbrooke and Boulevard René-Lévesque.
- Highway 20 eastbound near Avenue Atwater will be reduced to one lane.
- Boulevard de Maisonneuve between Rue Guy and Rue Bishop will be closed for utility work.
- Rue Sainte-Catherine will have intermittent closures near the construction zone.
Timing and Duration
Closures will begin as early as 12:00 PM and continue until late evening, with some lasting overnight. The game starts at 7:00 PM, and post-game traffic is expected to be heavy. Commuters are urged to check real-time traffic updates and consider telecommuting if possible.
Montreal officials have deployed additional traffic agents to manage intersections and assist with detours. The city also reminds residents to obey all signs and avoid parking in tow-away zones to prevent further delays.
