Bus network redesign in the Centre-Nord and West Island: the STM will implement its future service in spring 2026 at the earliest

Press release

Following the REM announcement on October 20, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) expects its new bus service in the Centre-Nord and West Island sectors to be operational in spring 2026 at the earliest.

Since the new service is designed to provide more direct connections to the REM as a whole, the STM cannot implement it until both branches are in service.

Although it is ready, the STM will be able to roll out its redesign starting March 23, 2026, as agreed in its agreement with the ARTM.

The current network already offers connections to the 14 new stations on the REM's Deux-Montagnes branch, and starting November 17, customers will be able to plan their trips using our digital tools. The bus network already provides service to the stations on the former Deux-Montagnes train line, which will soon become stations on the REM's Deux-Montagnes branch.

Tools to familiarize yourself with the new network

As with previous redesigns, the STM will roll out a series of tools before the official launch to help customers with the transition. These will include:

  • An online route simulator to plan and visualize current and future trips;
  • Local activities such as open houses, kiosks, and targeted citizen meetings;
  • An information campaign for citizens 

In addition, preparations are currently underway in the boroughs and cities concerned to prepare for the rollout of the redesign. 

About the bus network redesign

In 2018, the STM undertook a collaborative process to redesign the surface network, making it even more efficient and attractive, taking into account the mobility needs of Montrealers and the urban development of Montreal. Guided by five key principles, the STM drew on large volumes of mobility data and consulted with representative and specialized stakeholders, the general public, and residents of different areas of the city to improve the customer experience and review the design and architecture of its surface network.