ARTM and CDPQ Infra present mitigation measures and alternatives to facilitate user travel

Source: ARTM

The Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM) and CDPQ Infra, in collaboration with exo, the Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL), and the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), present the mitigation measures that will be implemented during the full closure of the REM from July 5 to August 17, 2025. In anticipation of the next phase of the REM’s service, dynamic tests to be conducted across the entire network this summer require the complete closure of the REM for a duration of 6 weeks. The REM service will resume on August 18, and the detailed service hours will be available later this summer.

During this closure period, regular bus networks will be enhanced, with details outlined below. For this purpose, exo bus lines serving the Longueuil and Angrignon terminals will increase in frequency. RTL will maintain a regular frequency (instead of the summer schedule) on lines serving the Longueuil terminal. We encourage users to prioritize these lines for travel to downtown Montreal.

Users may also consider, when possible, traveling outside peak hours or opting for remote work. Several public transit options remain available for traveling between the South Shore and Montreal, including the metro (yellow line) and commuter trains (Mont-Saint-Hilaire and Candiac lines).

Fare Information

ARTM would like to inform users that during the months of July and August, shuttle lines 721, 722, 568, 176, and the collective taxi T72 will be available free of charge to users to help mitigate the impacts of this closure. The REM service will also be free of charge from July 1–4 and from August 18–31. Access to all other public transport services requires a valid fare.

It is important to note that no bus service can replace the frequency or capacity of the REM. Therefore, certain periods of high traffic could lead to overcrowding and longer wait times.

Benoit Gendron, General Director, ARTM"We know that the summer closure of the REM will complicate travel this summer, and we thank users in advance for their patience. We invite you to consult the tools we have provided to plan your trips effectively. This closure is a necessary step to allow for the launch of the next REM branches, which will transform mobility in the metropolitan area."

Denis Andlauer, Vice President of Operations, CDPQ Infra"This summer service interruption of the REM is necessary to enable the upcoming launch, thus providing users with expanded and simplified access to Greater Montreal through the network."

Sylvain Yelle, General Director of exo"It is essential to work hand in hand with our partners to maintain reliable and efficient service for citizens of the suburbs during this temporary closure."

Alain Dufort, General Director of RTL"RTL will be on the ground this summer to support users affected by the REM closure, with added buses, drivers, and staff on site."

Marie-Claude Léonard, General Director of STM

"As is customary, STM is committed to continuously supporting its partners in a collaborative manner to ensure smooth and predictable travel for public transit customers."