Dimitris Ilias
LJI Journalist

The City of Montréal has taken a significant step toward improving mobility in the MIL Montréal sector by approving an agreement with the Canadian Pacific Railway Company for the construction of a new level crossing. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity between the boroughs of Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension and Outremont, which have long faced accessibility challenges due to railway infrastructure acting as a physical barrier. Along with approving the agreement, the city has also authorized the contract for the construction work, ensuring that the project moves forward efficiently.
A Much-Needed Connection Between Neighborhoods
The new level crossing will be strategically located to link De L’Épée Avenue and Gare-de-Triage Avenue, creating a safer and more direct route for pedestrians and cyclists traveling between Parc-Extension and Outremont. Currently, these neighborhoods are divided by railway tracks, requiring residents to take longer and less convenient routes to cross between them. By adding this crossing, the city aims to reduce detours, encourage active transportation, and improve access to key areas within the MIL Montréal district.
The crossing is expected to play a crucial role in reducing the isolation of these sectors by allowing smoother movement between residential areas, commercial zones, and public transportation hubs. The improved accessibility will particularly benefit students, commuters, and residents who rely on walking or cycling as part of their daily routines.
A Focus on Accessibility and Safety
Beyond simply connecting the two neighborhoods, the project emphasizes universal accessibility and safety measures to ensure that the crossing can be used comfortably by all. Some of the planned features include:
Removable chicanes for bicycles at both ends of the crossing to help regulate traffic flow and ensure cyclists navigate the area safely.
Installation of bollards to define pathways and prevent unauthorized vehicle access.
Clearly marked signage to guide pedestrians and cyclists while ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
By integrating these elements, the city aims to create an inclusive and user-friendly environment where individuals of all mobility levels can travel freely and securely.

Project Approval and Timeline
Before construction can begin, the agreement between the City of Montréal and Canadian Pacific Railway—as well as the contract for the level crossing’s development—must receive final approval from the Montréal city council. This is a standard procedure to ensure that all legal, financial, and logistical considerations are properly addressed before work commences.
If approved as expected, construction on the new level crossing is scheduled to begin in March 2025, with completion anticipated by fall 2025. This relatively quick timeline reflects the city’s commitment to addressing urban mobility challenges and improving infrastructure within the MIL Montréal district.
A Step Toward a More Connected and Accessible City
The new level crossing represents a significant investment in urban connectivity, particularly for residents of Parc-Extension and Outremont, who have long faced mobility restrictions due to the railway. By creating a safer, more efficient, and accessible route, the project aligns with the city’s broader goals of promoting active transportation and reducing physical barriers between communities.
As Montréal continues to grow and evolve, infrastructure projects like this play an essential role in ensuring that all residents, regardless of their mode of transport, can navigate the city with greater ease. The upcoming construction of the level crossing marks a meaningful step toward a more integrated, pedestrian-friendly, and sustainable urban landscape.