The link below showcases the absolutely staggering network of metro lines originally envisioned by transit planners for Montreal. By 1982, we were intended to have something in the range of 112km of metro line connecting the island.

Although this original plan dropped entirely off planners’ radar screens by the mid-70s, Montreal still has some expansion plans up its sleeve. The Park/Pine interchange (described here as a “… monument to the car”) is set to be demolished, confirming to some degree that the city is still committed to a light rail/’tramway’ system with lines along Park Avenue and Cavendish, among others. Metro expansions apparently being considered include an extension of the Yellow line between the McGill and Berri-UQAM stations (the Plateau Express!).

The South Shore Yellow line extension is apparently pretty likely, and the Laval metro link is essentially a fait accompli. With the current provincial regime, though, it’s anyone’s guess how much of a commitment to public transit we can expect.

As for me? I’d settle for the 51 Bus and Orange line running a bit later. I hate having to dash out at the last minute from seeing live music in order to catch the last metro or bus home. Last metro just after 1 in a city that stays up ’till 4? I call bullshit on that one.