Quebec Government to Invest $167B in Infrastructure Over Next Decade The Quebec government announced a plan to invest $167 billion in infrastructure over the next decade as part of its 2026–2036 infrastructure strategy. The Quebec Infrastructure Plan (QIP) is designed to preserve public assets, support economic growth, and meet rising demand for services amid global economic challenges. A major portion of the funding—$105.8 billion, or 71% of the total—will focus on maintaining existing infrastructure, an increase from the previous plan’s 65% allocation. The government emphasized this shift reflects a commitment to balancing asset preservation with new development projects. Infrastructure Minister Benoit Charette highlighted the plan’s role in stimulating the economy during a period of uncertainty, stating it provides a “responsible balance” between sustaining infrastructure and strengthening public services. The plan also includes an additional $5.2 billion in accelerated spending by 2030–2031, aiming to expedite project timelines. This investment is projected to safeguard over 4,400 jobs and contribute approximately $630 million annually to GDP by that time. Charette noted that progress made since 2019 has led to the completion of 405 projects valued at $20 million or more across Quebec. New funding of $12.6 billion will target priority sectors such as health and social services, education, higher education, and public transit. The plan underscores the government’s focus on improving critical systems, particularly within the health sector, to address long-standing challenges. The QIP’s emphasis on maintenance and modernization aims to ensure infrastructure remains functional and efficient while supporting long-term economic stability.#quebec #quebec_infrastructure_plan #benoit_charette #health_sector #public_transit
Exo welcomes Quebec budget measures, highlights ongoing gaps Public transit agency Exo has acknowledged that some measures outlined in Quebec’s 2026–2027 budget align with its priorities, though the organization emphasized that significant funding gaps remain, particularly for accessibility projects. The agency expressed appreciation for the provincial government’s decision to index the land transportation networks fund and allocate additional resources for public transit infrastructure through the Quebec Infrastructure Plan. Exo’s CEO, Marc Rousseau, described the increased infrastructure funding as a positive development, stating it could support improvements and expansions across the agency’s network. He highlighted the importance of reinvesting in infrastructure to ensure the long-term sustainability of the transit system, enhance the customer experience, and promote sustainable mobility in growing areas. Rousseau noted that such investments are critical for maintaining the network’s viability and adapting to the region’s evolving transportation needs. Despite the progress, Exo expressed disappointment over the lack of dedicated funding for making public transit infrastructure more accessible. The agency reiterated this concern in a press release released a week before the budget announcement. Exo argued that accessibility projects benefit a broad range of users, including individuals with disabilities, families with strollers, people with temporary injuries, travelers with luggage, and seniors. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to advancing accessibility and inclusivity, vowing to continue advocating for targeted financial support to address these gaps. Exo operates as the second-largest public transit provider in the greater Montreal region, serving communities across the North and South Shore.#montreal #quebec #exo #marc_roussel #quebec_infrastructure_plan
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
