CDPQ Infra enters aerial structure agreement with CN

Written by Kyra Senese, Managing Editor
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CDPQ Infra and CN announced an aerial structure agreement on Aug. 24 for CN’s REM project.
CDPQ Infra

CDPQ Infra announced Aug. 24 that the company has entered an agreement with Canadian National Railway (CN) to further its Réseau Electrique Métropolitain (REM) project.

 

Through the new agreement, CDPQ Infra will acquire the aerial structure leading to Central Station (Viaduc du Sud) from CN, allowing the REM direct access to the station. The agreement also allows the REM to use Central Station and run below the CN tracks in the Pointe-Saint-Charles sector.

The REM project is intended to join different public transportation systems through Central Station, which is described as the “intermodal hub” that links four metropolitan branches.

The agreement allows for the use of existing structures and eliminates the need to build parallel tracks and close multiple streets, minimizing the inconvenience to residents.

“This agreement crystallizes the vision we had for the REM, that of a unified system, integrated into the urban fabric,” said Macky Tall, president and CEO of CDPQ Infra. “We are truly grateful for CN’s collaboration in helping us find solutions, particularly in facilitating the REM’s access to Central Station, the network hub. This speaks to the seriousness and commitment of a partner who, like us, seeks to improve the fluidity and efficiency of transportation in the Greater Montréal area.”

The agreement between CDPQ Infra and CN provides for the acquisition of bridges, structures, land and buildings, in addition to rail infrastructure between Bridge and Saint-Antoine Streets in Montréal. 

“Considering the key role played by rail transportation in the fight against climate change, CN is proud to be able to facilitate the implementation of this major project that will benefit and develop the Greater Montréal area,” said Janet  Drysdale, vice president of Corporate Development at CN.

CDPQ also announced on Aug. 24 that improvements have been made to the route based on technical and environmental consultations and studies conducted since the project’s announcement in late April.

“These improvements target all aspects of the project, including service quality and efficiency, the reduction of environmental and social impacts, and the reduction of travel times,” the company said.

The three operators of passenger services—the AMT – Mont-Saint-Hilaire line, AMTRAK and VIA Rail—that use Central Station are not expected to be affected by its acquisition. The REM project will require future construction work, which will be done without interrupting current passenger services.

An environmental impact public hearing regarding the project requested by David Heurtel, the minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and the Fight against Climate Change, begins on Aug. 29. 

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