The Montreal light rail network has reached a significant milestone with the official commencement of service on the new Deux-Montagnes REM line. The long-awaited expansion brings modern rail transit to the northern suburbs, marking a transformative moment for the region's transportation infrastructure.
Inaugural Journey Marks New Era
On Friday, November 14, 2025, the REM light rail system embarked on its inaugural run from the Deux-Montagnes station in Deux-Montagnes, Quebec. The historic journey saw passengers, including a young boy captured in photographs, riding the sleek new trains back toward downtown Montreal. The event represented the culmination of years of planning and construction that will fundamentally change how residents commute across the Greater Montreal area.
The official beginning of service was announced by MontrealNewsService on November 17, 2025, confirming that the system is now operational and serving passengers. Journalists Amy Luft and Marisela Amador reported on the development, while photographer Christinne Muschi documented the inaugural run for The Canadian Press.
Transforming Regional Connectivity
The new Deux-Montagnes line represents a major advancement in Montreal's public transportation network. The fully automated light rail system promises to reduce travel times, decrease road congestion, and provide a reliable alternative to automobile commuting for thousands of residents in the northern suburbs.
With its elevated tracks and modern stations, the REM system offers panoramic views of the region while connecting previously underserved communities to Montreal's urban core. The project has been closely watched by transportation advocates and urban planners as a model for sustainable transit development in Canadian cities.
Future Implications for Montreal Transit
The successful launch of the Deux-Montagnes line signals the beginning of a broader transformation of Montreal's transportation landscape. As the REM network continues to expand, it's expected to reshape commuting patterns, spur economic development along its corridors, and set new standards for public transit in Quebec.
The November 14 inaugural run demonstrated the system's operational readiness and provided the first real-world test of the technology that will soon become a familiar sight across the Montreal metropolitan region. Early rider feedback and operational performance during these initial days will be crucial for fine-tuning the system before full-scale operations begin.
Transportation officials anticipate that the new line will quickly become an essential component of the region's transit network, carrying thousands of passengers daily and reducing the environmental impact of commuter travel through its electric-powered operation.
