A New Chapter for Montreal’s Transit: Leadership Changes at the REM
The Réseau express métropolitain (REM), Montreal’s ambitious automated light rail system, is undergoing a significant leadership transition. Pulsar, the consortium responsible for the operation and maintenance of the network, has announced the departure of its Director General, Loïc Cordelle.
The announcement comes at a critical juncture. While Pulsar describes the change as a natural evolution—transitioning from a development phase to a consolidation phase—the timing coincides with a period of heightened frustration for thousands of daily commuters.
Service Disruptions and Technical Hurdles
Since its launch in 2023, the Réseau express métropolitain has been plagued by reliability issues. For users, the experience has been far from seamless. During the winter months, service interruptions occurred on average every four days, leading to significant delays and commuter dissatisfaction.
Some of the most notable incidents include:
- n
- Tunnel Evacuations: Passengers were forced to walk through the tunnel under Mount Royal after a train breakdown, with no shuttle buses available to assist them.
- Communication Gaps: In a recent incident, a service slowdown between Brossard and Deux-Montagnes was initially attributed to “morning dew,” only to be later corrected as a track lubrication issue.
- Technical Glitches: Persistent software and mechanical “hiccups” that have hindered the system’s promise of efficiency.
Expanding the Network: Where Does the REM Stand?
Despite the operational turmoil, the network continues to grow. With the recent opening of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch on May 18, the system now spans 64 kilometres. The final stretch toward the airport is expected to bring the total network length to 67 km.
Pulsar—a partnership between Alstom and AtkinRéalis—holds a 30-year agreement with the owner, CDPQ Infra, to manage the entire infrastructure, including the 26 stations and the fleet of automated vehicles.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Stability
Taking over the helm is Jérôme Berthonneau, formerly the Senior Director of Operations. His primary challenge will be transforming the REM from a project under construction into a reliable, world-class transit utility.
While the company expressed gratitude for Loïc Cordelle’s leadership in delivering the initial phases of this unique North American project, the focus now shifts entirely to reliability. For Montrealers, the hope is that this change in leadership will finally put an end to the frequent delays and bring the stability promised by the Réseau express métropolitain.
