Quebec Solidaire is urging the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) government to significantly increase investments in the Montreal metro system. The call comes amid growing concerns over aging infrastructure and rising demand for public transit in the city.
Aging Infrastructure Concerns
Speaking at a press conference, Quebec Solidaire spokesperson Ruba Ghazal highlighted the deteriorating state of metro stations and equipment. She pointed to concrete walls crumbling at Place-des-Arts station as a visible symbol of neglect. Ghazal emphasized that without immediate funding, safety and reliability could be compromised.
Proposed Investment Plan
Quebec Solidaire proposes a multi-billion dollar plan over the next decade to modernize the metro network. This includes upgrading signal systems, replacing aging trains, and renovating stations to improve accessibility. The party argues that such investment is essential for reducing car dependency and meeting climate targets.
CAQ's Response
The CAQ government has not yet responded directly to the proposal. However, Transport Minister Francois Bonnardel recently stated that the province is committed to public transit but must balance budgets. Critics say the CAQ has underfunded the Societe de transport de Montreal (STM) in recent years, leading to service cuts and delays.
Broader Transit Context
Montreal's metro system, one of Canada's busiest, carries over 1 million passengers daily. The STM has warned that without new investments, the system will struggle to cope with population growth. Quebec Solidaire's call aligns with advocacy groups demanding a shift toward sustainable transportation.
The party also linked metro funding to broader social and environmental goals, arguing that reliable public transit reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves quality of life. Ghazal concluded by urging the CAQ to prioritize the metro in the upcoming provincial budget.
