Montreal Canadiens' playoff surge lifts REM ridership after West Island line opening

Montreal Canadiens REM light rail West Island line ridership increase Bell Centre

The Montreal Canadiens' advance in the Stanley Cup playoffs has driven daily ridership on the city's Réseau express métropolitain (REM) light‑rail system up to roughly 104,000, up from about 78,000 before the playoffs. REM vice‑president Julien Hurel of the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec said the network aims for 150,000 daily rides by 2027, and the recent boost is largely thanks to fans travelling to the Bell Centre via the Bonaventure station.

The newest West Island branch of the REM opened on Friday, offering a direct 35‑minute ride from the West Island to the Bell Centre and further encouraging spectator travel. The line’s launch coincides with the Canadiens' strong performance, creating a positive trend for the transit authority.

Sources

Canadiens playoff run has increased ridership on Montreal's light-rail network [lethbridgeherald.com]

3 months ago

Canadiens playoff run has increased ridership on Montreal's light-rail network [www.sudbury.com]

3 months ago

Canadiens playoff run has increased ridership on Montreal's light-rail network (Canada) [www.castanet.net]

3 months ago

Photos: West Island branch of the REM opens Friday [montrealgazette.com]

3 months ago