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As the launch date approaches, the West Island is poised for a significant transformation with the imminent opening of four new stations on the Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM) set for May 18. The stations—Des Sources, Fairview-Pointe-Claire, Kirkland, and l’Anse à l’Orme—promise to reshape local transit, yet accessibility concerns loom large for residents and visitors alike.
Accessibility Challenges at Fairview and Kirkland
While excitement surrounds the REM’s expansion, practical issues regarding access and parking have emerged. At the Fairview station, potential users currently face a significant hurdle: there are no designated parking spaces available. Mayor John Belvedere of Pointe-Claire highlighted the lack of safe crossings over the Trans-Canada Highway, noting that the absence of an overpass or bike paths complicates access for drivers and cyclists. He emphasised the necessity for community collaboration to create a functional transit experience.
Discussions are under way between REM officials and Cadillac Fairview regarding the possibility of establishing parking spaces at the Fairview location. However, as of now, no agreement has been formalised. “They’re looking at a certain number of spots,” Belvedere explained. “I believe it is only temporary until things settle down. Obviously, Cadillac Fairview has commitments to their tenants, too.”
In contrast, Kirkland will offer 200 parking spaces, but these will be exclusively reserved for its residents, potentially limiting access for others. Meanwhile, the Des Sources station will feature 484 spots, and l’Anse à l’Orme will provide 216 spaces for public use.
Anticipating Increased Traffic in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue
The upcoming REM stations are expected to attract more traffic to the West Island, a concern echoed by Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue’s Mayor Michel Boudreault. While he welcomes the changes brought about by the STM’s recent bus network overhaul—which aims to facilitate access to the REM and encourage public transport usage—there is apprehension regarding potential congestion, particularly on local routes such as the Morgan exit and Chemin Sainte-Marie.
Boudreault noted, “We’re already working on possible solutions in case it becomes an issue,” indicating that the municipality is proactively preparing for any challenges that may arise from the increased flow of vehicles.
Optimism for Economic Growth
Despite these accessibility hurdles, local leaders express optimism about the new transit system’s potential to enhance economic opportunities. Kirkland Mayor Michel Gibson is particularly hopeful that the REM will not only benefit residents but also attract visitors to the area. “It’s a welcome addition for our commercial and industrial base,” he stated. “They say it’ll be a great way to go downtown—but it’ll be a great way to come from downtown also.”
The overarching sentiment is that the REM’s integration into the community could mark a new chapter for the West Island, fostering both connectivity and economic development.
Why it Matters
The introduction of the REM stations is a pivotal moment for the West Island, heralding a shift towards more sustainable transportation options. However, the current logistical issues surrounding parking and access must be addressed to ensure that the benefits of this new system are fully realised. As local authorities navigate these challenges, the success of the REM will depend on effective collaboration among stakeholders and the community’s willingness to embrace a new transit paradigm. The outcome could significantly influence the region’s growth and development in the years ahead.
