Residents and commuters in Vaudreuil-Hudson are expressing concerns about the future of their train line after the opening of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) in the West Island.
The REM, a light rail network, is set to open in 2023 and will connect the West Island to downtown Montreal. This has raised questions about the future of the Vaudreuil-Hudson line, which currently serves as the main mode of transportation for many residents in the area.
According to the Agence métropolitaine de transport (AMT), the Vaudreuil-Hudson line has seen a steady increase in ridership over the years, with over 1.5 million passengers in 2019. However, with the opening of the REM, some fear that this line will become obsolete and may even face potential closure.
One of the main concerns is the potential impact on commuters who rely on the Vaudreuil-Hudson line for their daily commute. Many fear that the REM may not provide the same level of service and convenience, especially for those who live in areas not directly connected to the new network.
In addition, there are concerns about the potential increase in travel time for those who will have to transfer from the Vaudreuil-Hudson line to the REM in order to reach their final destination. This could also result in added costs for commuters who will have to pay for two separate tickets.
Furthermore, the closure of the Vaudreuil-Hudson line could have a negative impact on the local economy. Many businesses in the area rely on the train line to bring in customers and employees, and its closure could lead to a decline in economic activity.
Despite these concerns, the AMT has reassured residents that the Vaudreuil-Hudson line will continue to operate even after the REM opens. They have also stated that they are working on a plan to integrate the two networks and ensure a smooth transition for commuters.
In the meantime, residents and local officials are calling for more transparency and communication from the AMT regarding the future of the Vaudreuil-Hudson line. They are also urging the government to consider the impact on commuters and the local economy before making any decisions about the line’s future.
As the opening of the REM draws closer, it is clear that the future of the Vaudreuil-Hudson line is a topic of concern for many. Only time will tell how the integration of these two networks will affect commuters and the community as a whole.
