Via Rail has unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at transforming the travel experience for long-distance train passengers in Canada. On Wednesday, the Crown corporation announced its intentions to establish a new integrated transit hub in Dorval, Quebec, which will seamlessly connect Via Rail services, exo trains, and shuttle services to Montreal’s Trudeau International Airport.
Streamlining Travel in Dorval
Karl Helou, a spokesperson for Via Rail, emphasised the objective of this initiative: to consolidate various transportation options under one roof. “The goal really is to group all of the transportation options together to provide a one-stop shop for transit for people in Dorval, as well as for those arriving from outside the city,” Helou stated. He further highlighted that the current transit system is “fragmented,” making it challenging for travellers to navigate.
Currently, passengers transferring from Via Rail to exo trains must traverse an underpass and cross several roads, a process that many find inconvenient. Local residents are optimistic about the proposed hub, with Paul Parisien, a West Island resident, expressing enthusiasm for a fully integrated public transportation system. “That would be fantastic. And if we could connect it with the REM [light rail] somehow, then we would have a totally integrated public transportation system,” he told Global News.
Local Support for the Project
Dorval Mayor Marc Doret has voiced his full support for the initiative, recognising the difficulties many face in navigating the current transport landscape. “It’s very difficult to get around the area right now,” Doret remarked. “We’re going to have everything together in one central area, and that’s what’s going to make it easier and user-friendly for the public.”
This integrated hub is envisioned not only as a convenience for passengers but also as a strategy to encourage greater use of public transport. Helou stated that “integrated mobility is a proven concept,” explaining that providing simple and accessible transportation options leads to increased usage. “For every transportation need, there is a transportation option,” he added.
Construction Plans and Timeline
The current plan includes closing the existing Via Rail station located on the south side of the Canadian National Railway tracks and constructing a new bimodal station on the north end, near the existing exo stop. An overpass will be built to ensure that both Via Rail and exo trains can continue to operate without disruption. “So no disruptions of service and a much better experience, an accessible experience for passengers,” Helou assured.
Funding for the project has been secured from the Government of Canada; however, a final budget has yet to be determined. While the timeline for completion remains uncertain, Helou indicated that full construction could take anywhere from two to five years.
Why it Matters
This initiative represents a significant step forward in improving public transport infrastructure in Quebec, offering a modern solution to long-standing connectivity issues. By streamlining transit options in Dorval, the project not only aims to enhance the travel experience for passengers but also seeks to reduce reliance on personal vehicles, thereby promoting a more sustainable urban environment. As cities worldwide grapple with traffic congestion and environmental concerns, the success of this hub could serve as a model for future transit developments across Canada.