Stepping Up the Cost to Cruise Around Montreal: Public Transit Fare Hikes
Increase in Fare Prices for Public Transportation in Montreal Region this Summer: 3% higher expenses
Starting July 1st, commuters in Montreal will feel a pinch in their wallets as public transit fares are set to rise. Expect an average boost of 3%, pushing the monthly zone A pass from $100 to $104.50. This news comes after the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (ARTM) announced a similar fare increase back in December 2022, slated for July 1, 2025.
The upcoming fare modifications, as outlined in the ARTM's newly unveiled fare grid, will affect fares within various metropolitan zones. Single fares in zone A will stay at $3.75 and zones ABC, ABCD will maintain their prices as well. However, fares for trips between zone A and B, including Laval and Longueuil, will see a bump from $4.75 to $5. Bus fares within zones A, B, and C will retain the $3.75 fee.
Monthly passes for all modes in zone A will rise to $104.40, $164.50 for zone AB (previously $160), and $200.50 for zone ABC (up from $196). The ARTM also plans to introduce specialized passes for users who take the Metropolitan Express Network (REM) from the South Shore. The price of a monthly pass for the Longueuil Transit Network (RTL) and REM buses will hike from $136 to $152.50, a 12% increase explained as a catch-up fare adjustment following the arrival of the REM, which replaced the old bus service.
The ARTM defends its decision to apply a 3% fare increase across the board, stating it is a responsible and necessary action that minimizes financial strain on customers while maintaining the delivery of a dependable, high-quality service.
The South Shore Public Transit Association raises concerns about the fairness of these fare increases, particularly as services have dwindled since the pandemic and the REM has proven chaotic. "Our customers are paying more and more each year for a deteriorating service," the organization laments.
In 2025, the west and north REM antennas are set to launch in the fall, stretching from Anse-à-l'Orme and Deux-Montagnes stations. Preparations are already underway, with the CDPQ Infra having initiated dynamic testing of the automated train in the Mount Royal tunnel and plans to conduct tests on the entire REM network this summer, necessitating suspension of service between Brossard and Central Station from July 5 to August 18.
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- In response to the proposed public transit fare hike, the South Shore Public Transit Association questions the fairness of the increases, given the decreasing services and chaotic REM implementation.
- The ARTM plans to launch the west and north REM antennas in the fall of 2025, which will extend from Anse-à-l'Orme and Deux-Montagnes stations, despite ongoing concerns about increasing costs for transportation.
- The Quebec government, led by Minister Belanger, has promised to monitor construction costs closely to avoid spending excessively on seniors' homes.
- As Montreal prepares for a major winter storm predicted to bring between 20 to 35 centimeters of snow, residents are bracing for potential disruptions in transportation and services.
- In an effort to cut costs, the Quebec government has enforced a hiring freeze to reduce the number of public servants, aiming for a decrease of 2000 individuals.
