STM says Montreal Metro needs far more than Quebec is offering to keep wheels turning Montreal’s public transit authority has warned that the city’s Metro system requires significantly more funding than the province has allocated to address its deteriorating condition. Earlier this year, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) highlighted the urgent need for billions in repairs, but Quebec’s new budget has set aside only $1.2 billion for public transit across the province. Aref Salem, chair of the STM board, emphasized that the current funding falls far short of what is needed. The STM has described the Metro’s infrastructure as in critical condition, with underground stations suffering from severe structural issues. For example, concrete was removed from the ceiling of the Place-des-Arts station due to fears it could collapse on passengers. Some stations have corrugated plastic panels installed to manage leaks from overhead pipes. The STM’s rating system for station conditions shows that 35 out of 68 stations are rated D (bad) or E (very bad), with Place-des-Arts receiving a D rating. Recent incidents have further underscored the system’s vulnerabilities. Water infiltration caused the Yellow line to shut down during a rush hour in early 2025, while structural damage at Saint-Michel station led to a month-long closure in 2024. Salem estimated that at least $680 million is required for infrastructure and maintenance by 2030. He warned that the current asset deficit stands at around $7 billion and could rise to $9 billion by 2030 if no action is taken. The STM is urging both provincial and federal governments to reach an agreement on funding as soon as possible. Salem highlighted the growing challenges, including outdated equipment and aging infrastructure.#societe_de_transport_de_montreal #place_des_arts_station #jonatan_julien #stm #quebec
