Navigating Change: A Deep Dive into the STM 2025 Activity Report
The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) has officially released its 2025 Activity Report, revealing a year of strategic pivots, infrastructure milestones, and the navigation of complex socio-economic challenges. While the agency faced a dip in ridership, the focus has remained steadfast on modernizing the network to ensure Montreal continues to move efficiently.
Ridership Trends: Understanding the Decline
In 2025, the STM recorded 293.9 million trips, marking a 6.6% decrease compared to the previous year. This decline wasn’t accidental but rather the result of a “perfect storm” of factors:
- Demographic Shifts: New immigration policies led to a reduction in international students, a demographic that historically relies heavily on public transit.
- Labor Disruptions: Collective bargaining negotiations with union groups resulted in service interruptions that discouraged some regular commuters.
“Changes in how we do business combined with efforts to optimize our budget have made 2025 a decisive year for STM’s ability to continue to deliver efficient, reliable, safe, and cost-effective public transit,” stated Marie-Claude Léonard, CEO of STM.
Infrastructure Milestones: Building the Future
Despite the operational hurdles, 2025 was a landmark year for expansion. The most significant highlight is the progress on the Blue Line extension project. The agency introduced the largest tunnel boring machine ever utilized in Quebec to excavate a 4.6-km tunnel, bringing Montreal one step closer to an expanded metro reach.
Other key achievements include:
- Henri-Bourassa BRT: The launch of the second section of the bus rapid transit corridor.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Significant upgrades at the Atwater station to improve inclusivity.
- REM Integration: Seamless connection of the new Deux-Montagnes branch of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) with McGill and Édouard-Montpetit stations.
Prioritizing Safety and Customer Satisfaction
Public perception and safety have been top priorities for the STM. In response to rising incivility, the agency implemented social coexistence measures, including mandatory circulation policies in stations and an increased staff presence. Due to positive feedback, these initiatives have been extended until April 30, 2026.
Interestingly, customer satisfaction is on the rise. The STM reported a 10% overall decrease in complaints, with metro-related complaints dropping by 13% and paratransit complaints plunging by 31%. While bus service complaints rose by 6%, this was largely attributed to the aforementioned strike actions.
A New Era for Paratransit Services
To combat the challenges of an aging population and increasing demand, the STM is transforming its paratransit operations. Starting in 2026, external partners will fully operate the service. This strategic shift aims to:
- Standardize operational quality.
- Increase vehicle availability.
- Achieve the goal of zero trip denials.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 report paints a picture of an agency in transition. By balancing labor negotiations and ridership fluctuations with bold infrastructure projects and a commitment to safety, the STM is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and inclusive transit system for all Montrealers.
