Montreal’s Exo transit service is set to implement significant layoffs and has issued warnings about potential future service reductions as the public transportation sector in Quebec grapples with ongoing financial difficulties. The company has announced a reduction of approximately 11 per cent of its workforce—equating to 73 positions—as part of its 2026 budget, which sees an overall budget cut of 0.4 per cent compared to the previous fiscal year.
Budget Cuts and Workforce Reductions
Exo, which operates bus and suburban train services in the Montreal region, is facing mounting challenges that have forced its board of directors to make tough decisions. Pierre Fortin, chair of Exo’s board, acknowledged that the agency’s ability to achieve its target of cutting $100 million in expenses by 2028 could adversely affect its services. “We cannot achieve our financial goals without making sacrifices that will impact our riders,” Fortin stated, underscoring the precarious situation that transit services find themselves in.
The cuts come at a time when Exo is not alone in facing budgetary pressures. Earlier this month, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), the city’s primary transit agency, disclosed plans to eliminate around 300 jobs as it presented its own budget for 2026. This trend highlights a concerning pattern of financial strain across public transportation entities in the greater Montreal area.
Ongoing Financial Challenges
The persistent budget shortfalls have raised alarms among transit advocates and academics alike. Paul Lewis, a retired urbanism professor from Université de Montréal, pointed out that transit agencies have been battling escalating operational costs that have outpaced revenue growth. “It’s a vicious cycle; without adequate funding, services deteriorate, and ridership declines further,” he explained. This feedback loop poses a significant threat to the viability of public transport in the region.
As ridership numbers fluctuate, the need for reliable and affordable public transport remains critical for many residents. The prospect of service reductions could lead to longer wait times and reduced routes, pushing commuters to seek alternative means of transportation, which could exacerbate the existing traffic congestion in Montreal.
Implications for Commuters and the City
The impact of these budget cuts will undoubtedly resonate throughout the community. Commuters who rely on Exo’s services for their daily commutes may find themselves facing disruptions, which can lead to increased travel times and frustration. Already, many are expressing concerns about the future of public transport in the region.
Moreover, as the city promotes initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and encourage sustainable transport options, these cuts could hinder Montreal’s environmental goals. A robust public transportation system is crucial for reducing reliance on personal vehicles and mitigating the city’s carbon footprint.
Why it Matters
The decisions made by Exo and STM illustrate the broader challenges facing public transportation in Quebec, reflecting a struggle that could have lasting effects on commuters and urban planning. These cuts not only threaten the jobs of transit workers but also jeopardise the reliability and accessibility of transportation for residents. As cities increasingly turn to sustainable transport solutions, maintaining a strong public transit network is essential for fostering an environmentally friendly and economically viable future. The implications of these decisions will be felt far beyond the immediate financial landscape, influencing how Montreal evolves in the coming years.
