Transportation

VIA Rail explores “alternative return to service” scenerios for the Gaspé

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – After more than ten years of stating that passenger rail services to Gaspé would only resume once the entire railway line was refurbished, VIA Rail is now exploring “alternative return-to-service” scenarios for the Chaleur train. 

Bonaventure Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Catherine Blouin tabled a motion on May 27 in the National Assembly, calling for the return of passenger rail services to New Carlisle as soon as possible. The motion, which was unanimously supported by the elected officials present at the time of the vote, calls for the return of the passenger train to New Carlisle as soon as possible, noting that the rail line would be operational to Port-Daniel-Gascons in the coming weeks. 

In addition, the motion called for the establishment of a shuttle between New Carlisle and Gaspé. The motion was brought to Ottawa on May 29 by Alexis Deschênes, the Member of Parliament for the riding of Gaspésie-Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine-Listuguj. However, the government remained very vague about its intentions. 

In an email dated May 30, “VIA Rail has always affirmed its commitment to restoring service in the Gaspé when the tracks are safe and allow competitive travel times to Gaspé,” noted the public corporation. VIA stated that it had begun work to prepare for a possible return to service, in collaboration with the Quebec Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, and based on its timelines for track refurbishment to Gaspé by 2027. 

“When the provincial budget was tabled on March 25, 2025, VIA Rail learned, at the same time as the Gaspé population, that the refurbishment work on the section between Port-Daniel–Gascons and Gaspé was postponed to the planning phase, with no new timeline to guide further efforts,” states VIA. 

It was from this point on that the carrier’s thinking seemed to have taken a new turn. “Faced with this major change, and still firmly committed to restoring rail service for Gaspé residents, VIA Rail must now return to the drawing board to explore alternative return-to-service scenarios,” explains the company’s communications department, adding, however, that it is too early to comment on the form or parameters of these scenarios. 

“(This is) music to my ears. This is a first for me to hear this type of comment,” says Ms. Blouin, who notes that she has been working on the file for a long time. She points out that collaboration between VIA Rail and Quebec is very good. 

“To see it written in black and white that it was pushing them to return to the drawing board. There is no reason why the passenger train should not run to New Carlisle. It gives us hope,” adds Ms. Blouin, who also notes that this opportunity must be seized and serious negotiations should begin. “This is a good indication because until very recently, the position has always been that there would be no return until the rail service was operational all the way to Gaspé. There is an opening, and I welcome it. I intend to collaborate with VIA Rail if they need anything,” says Bloc Québécois MP Alexis Deschênes, who will continue to put pressure on the carrier. 

“We’re right to ask. Everyone is talking to us about the return of the train. It’s an essential service that we want. So much the better if there’s a change of tone from VIA Rail. It’s the bare minimum we’re asking for,” he adds. 

A rumour is circulating at the provincial level that the carrier is toying with the idea of separating the Ocean train and the Chaleur train, which would run independently between Montreal and Matapedia. 

VIA, however, did not mention such a scenario in its email. The Coalition of Gaspesians for the Return of the VIA Rail Train believes that studying alternative scenarios for the Gaspé will put pressure on Quebec to refurbish the rail line to Gaspé. 

“The more people take the train, the more pressure there will be on the government to complete the section. It’s important that VIA Rail return to explain these alternative solutions,” says coalition spokesperson Micheline Saint-Onge. 

The coalition is ready to work with VIA Rail on the next steps, relaying the messages received from meetings held in recent months between Mataand those to come in Rocher-Percé and the Côte-de-Gaspé. 

Is the motion the key? 

Everything seems to be moving forward since the motion by the MNA for Bonaventure, who indicated that regional connections were at the heart of VIA Rail’s mandate. 

“The Matapedia-Gaspé regional connection is essential to serving the communities of the Gaspé. That the National Assembly request Via Rail to restore at least rail service to New Carlisle as soon as possible and to implement a shuttle to provide a connection to Gaspé,” states the motion read by the elected official. 

The Coalition of Gaspésians for the Return of the Passenger Train is pleased with this stance taken by elected officials in Quebec City, as the group has been struggling since January to secure such progress. 

“In April, we sent a specific letter to the two provincial MNAs, Ms. Blouin and Mr. (Stéphane) Sainte-Croix, and to the Minister of Transport, Geneviève Guilbault, asking them to take a position and take action and request a motion to support the project,” says Coalition spokesperson Micheline Saint-Onge. 

A meeting with the MNA Blouin, her Gaspé riding colleague Stéphane Sainte-Croix and a representative from the Ministry of Transport was held on May 15. 

“We are extremely pleased that this has produced results that have been expected since 2013,” added Ms. Saint-Onge. “We are now waiting for the next steps. June, July 2025 is not far off. We’re continuing the process to get the train back this summer,” she explained before VIA’s letter. 

A major factor holding VIA back from its return is the lack of rolling stock, in addition to stations, track safety, and staff. 

“What we learned from the meeting on May 15 is that there’s a committee in place with VIA and the Ministry of Transport. I don’t know where VIA is at,” notes Ms. Saint-Onge. 

“The only problem VIA had was with rolling stock. But a lot of pressure was taken off that file because new cars were delivered to the Quebec City-Windsor corridor. The ones that were removed need repairs, but that frees up 160 cars. I can’t believe there wouldn’t be a few cars that could come to the Gaspé,” she suggests

VIA Rail explores “alternative return to service” scenerios for the Gaspé Read More »

Agreement between Quebec and Maria to replenish the beach 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

place for beach replenishment work to begin in May to protect Maria’s shoreline from erosion and coastal submersion. 

On March 10, the municipal council approved a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Transportation for part of the work aimed at protecting Highway 132 between the municipal beach and the post office. The project will also coordinate with beach replenishment for the commercial sector between the IGA supermarket and the Lady Maria residence. “The storm water outfall, manholes, and engineering work are included in the beach replenishment memorandum of understanding,” says Mayor of Maria Jean-Claude Landry. 

Furthermore, the mayor is confident that the final authorizations for the work will be obtained under the direction of the Ministry of Public Security for the commercial sector. 

“It’s coming in gradually, and we should have all the requests made before the work begins,” says the elected official.  The authorizations are expected before the scheduled start of construction in late May or early June, with work continuing through November. 

For the commercial component, the government of Quebec granted $9.3 million in June 2022, while the municipality will need to contribute $684,000 to complete the financial package.  “I won’t give any figures because we’re in a call for tenders, but it should be included in the budget,” noted the mayor. 

The construction zone will span approximately 2.4 kilometers. However, for the Rue des Tournepierres area, Civil Security has determined that any work would serve no purpose in protecting residents, since the long-term effects of a construction project would be non existent. 

“The municipality is ensuring the protection of property and will support people,” he said. It’s difficult to predict what will happen next, but public services will be provided up to a certain limit. 

“Services will be maintained over time until it’s reasonable to do so. With climate change, we can’t predict what will happen in 10 or 20 years. Climate change will affect local residents,” the mayor explained. 

Approximately 53 residents live in the vacinity. Property owners could receive a maximum compensation of $385,000 to vacate the street.  Protecting this area was estimated to cost $41 million.  Last winter, three major storms severely impacted Pointe Verte residents. 

Agreement between Quebec and Maria to replenish the beach  Read More »

MTQ unveils two traffic studies in Gaspé 

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – A 2024 traffic analysis concludes that despite the possible addition of several hundred housing units on a street connecting to York Boulevard East, the Ministry of Transportation states that the impact on traffic in the area will be minimal. 

The study focused specifically on traffic at the corner of York Boulevard East (Route 198) and Dean Creek Street.  According to the study findings, the current configuration of Route 198 can meet anticipated traffic needs, even during rush hour. Consequently, no changes to geometry, signage, or markings are required. 

The Ministry is awaiting receipt of the developer’s proposal for access to the eco-district to assess its feasibility and determine whether an access and road permit can be issued. Recommendations have been submitted directly to the Town to help guide its decisions on matters under municipal jurisdiction. 

Meanwhile, minor improvements are planned for the Route 132 and 197 intersection in Saint-Majorique 

In August 2022, The Town of Gaspé requested an analysis from the Ministry of Transportation to improve safety at the intersection following a fatal collision on July 3, 2022. 

The site is located on a long, straight stretch at the exit of the Saint-Majorique ferry toward Rivière-au-Renard, where the speed limit is 90 kilometres per hour. However, many motorists fail to comply with this limit. 

Following its study, the ministry did not identify a significant safety issue related to traffic at the intersection of Routes 132 and 197.  However, the ministry has noted a recurring pattern of accidents on the eastbound approach to Route 132 from Cap-aux-Os, which requires action. 

At the end of the summer, the signage on the eastbound approach was improved: the alignment chevrons were increased in size and the “Curve Ahead” sign was replaced with the “Restricted Visibility Ahead on a Horizontal Curve” sign. 

Next summer, the speed limit will be lowered for part of the section of Route 132 on the eastbound approach to the intersection, and signage will be installed to reflect the new speed. Additionally, during a future roadway conservation project, the ministry will validate the slope transition and make corrections, if necessary, and will asphalt the shoulders to reduce the amount of granular material entering the roadway. 

The intersection will be monitored in the coming years to assess whether these measures effectively enhance safety. 

MTQ unveils two traffic studies in Gaspé  Read More »

Small Steps, Big Impact: Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles & REGIM partner for a greener Gaspésie 

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Arthur Poirier-Roy, LJI Journalist

CARLETON – At Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles, a quiet revolution is underway. Beyond the classrooms and labs, a shift in commuting habits is taking place, driven by a commitment to sustainability and a recognition of the power of collective action. The institution is actively encouraging employees and students to embrace eco-friendly transportation, and the results are impressive. 

Annie Léonard, a Cégep employee, is a prime example. For the past two years, she’s been a regular rider of the REGIM (Régie intermunicipale de transport Gaspésie Îles-de-la-Madeleine), the regional bus service. Her employer subsidizes a portion of her bus pass, making it a financially attractive alternative to driving. But for Annie, the benefits extend beyond cost savings. She’s consistently impressed by the dedication of the REGIM drivers, who go above and beyond to serve the students, whom they also drive to the Cégep since 2014. “The drivers make an incredible effort to best serve the students,” she says. She’s witnessed them adapt their routes to accommodate students, even turning back if they’ve missed a stop. They keep lost items safe and recognize the students who’ve misplaced them, creating a sense of community on the bus. “It’s more than just an environmentally conscious choice,” Annie explains. “It’s a humane experience.” 

For Cégep employees, the incentives are clear. Parking spaces on campus are expensive, designed to discourage single-occupancy vehicles. This has fostered a thriving carpooling culture, with teachers sharing rides and splitting parking costs. The Cégep has also installed electric car charging stations, which are used by a growing number of teachers. This visible commitment to sustainability creates a positive atmosphere, demonstrating that the institution is taking concrete steps to reduce its carbon footprint. 

A partnership between the Cégep and REGIM has further amplified the impact. The REGIM now provides bus service for students, replacing the traditional yellow school buses since 2014, according to the bus company. This collaboration, as Annie notes, fosters a sense of shared responsibility between the municipality and the region. 

Annie has also seen firsthand how raising concerns can lead to positive change. She’s previously requested improvements like better lighting at bus shelters and a crosswalk near a stop, demonstrating that the Cégep administration is receptive to suggestions. 

The financial benefits of taking public transit are undeniable. Considering the wear and tear on a vehicle, the rising cost of fuel, the carbon tax, and on-campus parking fees, the subsidized bus pass, costing Annie only $60 per month (down from $100), is a “no-brainer.” Despite this, the bus service struggles to fill up its seats on some days, showing partial adoption at best from the local population. 

While electric cars may not be accessible to everyone, there are always options for those wishing to lower their ecological footprint. Simply filling up your car with colleagues, instead of driving alone, is a great start. The Cégep’s efforts demonstrate that real change is possible when individuals and institutions work together. All it takes is a willingness to ask. 

Do you have a story to share about commuting in the Gaspésie? The Gaspé Spec invites readers to reach out and share their experiences with public transportation, whether it’s a wish for improvement or a positive story about how the REGIM has helped them. Let’s continue this conversation and work towards a greener future for our region. 

Full disclosure Arthur Poirier-Roy works for the Cegep.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles & REGIM partner for a greener Gaspésie  Read More »

Train will not go to Gaspé before the end of 2027 

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ- The Quebec Department of Transport is once again postponing the deadline to rehabilitate the reopening of the railroad to Gaspé, now targeting the fall of 2027. 

In 2017, the provincial government promised to reach Gaspé in 2022. Then it was 2026, 2025, then 2026 again and now, all the regional stakeholders in the file estimate that the terminus of the line will not see its first train until the fall of 2027. 

“It is a disappointment,” says Gaspé Mayor Daniel Côté, who participated in a rail work monitoring committee with the authorities of the Quebec Ministry of Transport on January 22. 

“We’re being told about 2027 in the broad sense, but I would venture to assume that it’s probably later than 2027,” Daniel Côté continued. 

For several weeks now, two major calls for tenders remain suspended by Transports Québec.  On January 22, the Ministry of Transport announced that it was cancelling these calls for tenders, citing significant differences with the estimated budget required. 

The first call launched on March 21 faced nine postponements, and bids were only opened on September 18.  Pomerleau submitted a bid for $258 million, while Partenariat Ferroviaire Gaspésie suggested $286 million to complete the work. 

The work involves repairing two bridges in Gascons, another between Gascons and Newport, one in Newport, and one in Douglastown. In addition, a bridge in Grande-Rivière was to be replaced, and a retaining wall in Pabos Mills is also part of the bid. 

The contract duration was estimated at 28 months, according to the call for tenders.  Another revised contract, which had originally provided for the repair or construction of nine infrastructure projects, but for which the price request was ultimately only for bridges, has also been dropped. 

The targeted sites were a small bridge in Pabos Mills, the Grand Pabos River bridge, the Pabos River bridge, the Barachois bridge and the road bridge on Highway 132 in Barachois. 

The Ministry of Transport had removed the four retaining walls at Anse-à-Beaufils and Sandy Beach from the project. The ministry indicated that the revised contract was estimated at over $50 million.  On August 28, Pomerleau submitted the lowest proposal of $79 million.  Hamel Construction, the only other bidder, was asking for $83.8 million. 

For the first contract, involving nine structures, only Pomerleau had submitted a bid of $104 million.  “Consequently, the ministry will review its planning for awarding contracts with the aim of completing the entire project. As such, the design and the strategy for grouping the work will be reviewed with the aim of obtaining more competitive bids during the next calls for tenders,” the ministry said in a January 22 press release. At the end of this review, it will be possible to present a new completion schedule for the remaining work between Port-Daniel-Gascons and Gaspé. 

“Everything is being done to complete all the work up to Gaspé as quickly as possible,” the ministry added. 

“This is the process we got bogged down in. The time it takes to get out of the process is time we’re not spending doing work. That largely explains why the work is delayed and why we’re disappointed,” says Mayor Côté. 

The total of the tenders could now surpass $517 million, the sum budgeted by Transports Québec for the Port Daniel-Gaspé stretch of railroad, Some contracts have already been awarded on that section. 

Not a surprise 

“It (another delay) is not really a surprise. We’ve seen it coming for a while, knowing that barely 50% of the contracts were awarded on the third section and that there were calls for tender rejected. It was inevitable,” comments the president of the Société du chemin de fer de la Gaspésie, Éric Dubé. “To meet the 2026 deadline, all the work would have had to be given in 2024,” adds Mr. Dubé. 

“The calls for tenders compared to the estimates have exploded. When they are not able to explain the discrepancies and with the leeway they can afford, they have to find solutions to return to calls for tenders,” he continues. 

“What will be important is for the ministry to come out with calls for tenders as soon as possible so as not to lose another year,” says Mr. Dubé. 

The ministry mentioned this coming spring. “The definition of spring is not a specific date. Will it be April? May? We want it as soon as possible to have an answer as quickly as possible. We will just know when the calls for tenders open if there will be other delays. We have just lost 2024,” says President Dubé. 

In an ideal world, bids should be called in February so as not to lose 2025. “They are working very hard to go to calls for tenders so as not to lose another year,” continued Mr. Dubé. 

The Société du chemin de fer de la Gaspésie could be asked to do more work to give a boost to the rehabilitation. 

“We think we can minimize costs. The ministry came to us with an additional bridge in Caplan since the section will not be open before June. It’s a big project and we will be able to deliver. That’s the role we can play to help,” says Mr. Dubé. 

The superstructures will not be able to be built by the company, but the culverts and level crossings could be taken care of. 

One billion dollars? 

Will a budget of $1 billion be needed to complete the entire refurbishment? 

“We asked ourselves whether additional funds will be needed. As long as that is not known, it will be difficult to ask for more until we have spent all the money we have. The ministry is working on the objective of carrying out the necessary work. Until all calls for tenders are open, it’s difficult to speculate. We’re not there yet,” Mr. Dubé analyzes. 

The work will continue in 2025 on six sites between Port-Daniel-Gascons and Gaspé. 

The interventions include the reconstruction of seven structures (five bridges and two walls), the rehabilitation of 18 structures, the relocation of track in three sectors, the replacement of more than 120 culverts, protection work against coastal erosion and submersion and interventions on the components of the railway for the entire section, with changes of ties as well as ballasting and levelling work. 

Section two between Caplan and Port-Daniel-Gascons should be put into service this spring. 

Can we believe in 2027 for Gaspé? “It will depend on how quickly the ministry awards contracts for the third section by summer. Otherwise, we will lose another year,” says Mr. Dubé. “We have political assurances that the file will be settled and that the last section to Gaspé will not be abandoned even if there were delays and additional costs,” says Daniel Côté. 

Economic development 

The postponement of another year to reach Gaspé will have impacts on the economic development of the Rocher-Percé and Côte-de-Gaspé MRCs. 

The ministry asked the company to find out if this announcement will have financial impacts on it. “Everything east of the cement plant, we have not yet quantified the impacts since we are one year behind. We will have to do the exercise. We will have to talk with the companies and the economic departments of the MRCs concerned to see what they had in their book,” says Mr. Dubé. 

It will have no impact on the Mines Gaspé revival project in Murdochville since exploitation is planned for around 2030. 

The picture could be different for LM Wind Power in Gaspé, which now manufactures smaller blades, the size of the blades that were previously transported by truck to New Richmond to be placed on a train. 

“This is an issue that we will have to quantify. Knowing that we would be in Port-Daniel in 2025, rather than bringing them to New Richmond, we have to see if we can transship them closer to the manufacturing point. It’s a bit like when we started transshipping them in New Richmond: we were supposed to do it for two years. We did it for six years,” says Mr. Dubé. 

“It’s a thorn in the side,” says Daniel Côté when asked about the credibility of the rehabilitation schedule that has been postponed again. 

“It always sounds a bit strange for companies for whom deadlines are important. We don’t necessarily have a million companies running after us. We can’t guarantee 2026-2027.” We have to postpone it to 2027. It has an impact on our credibility in our town and our region. There are elements over which we have no control other than to exert pressure. We continue to exert pressure, but there are things that are beyond our control, but it is certain that it has an impact on our credibility,” adds the mayor of Gaspé 

Train will not go to Gaspé before the end of 2027  Read More »

Mayor of Gaspé alleges Pascan inflated its rates; the company denies claims

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The mayor of Gaspé, Daniel Côté is accusing Pascan airline of inflating its rates following the announcement of the updated Regional Air Access Program (PAAR) 2.0 tabled by the Minister of Transport, Geneviève Guilbault in December at Michel-Pouliot airport in Gaspé. 

Daniel Côté made this statement following a detailed analysis of the new PAAR program that will be in effect as of February 3. The PAAR program is not the problem. 

“When we apply the government discount percentage to the PAL Airlines ticket, we arrive at around $500 for a round trip Gaspé-Quebec or Gaspé-Montreal. With Pascan, it doesn’t work. The prices were inflated shortly before the announcement. The prices are $600-700 for a round trip and not $500,” calculates Daniel Côté, who indicates that before the program was announced, the two carriers displayed an equivalent price grid. 

The Québec government has been made aware of this issue. “We were told that they were going to check and discuss the issue with Pascan. They were a little surprised,” maintains the elected official on the sidelines of the January 13 council meeting. 

In his opinion, the program remains good, whether it be the program that now applies to flights between Gaspé and the Magdalen Islands, the fact that non-profit organizations can benefit from the program or the end of the maximum usage limit for users. 

Pascan retorts that fares were not inflated before the announcement, according to co-owner Yani Gagnon, who learned of these comments from The SPEC. Before reacting further, Mr. Gagnon wanted to speak with Mayor Côté. 

A profitable airport 

Unlike other regional airports that are recording deficits, the Gaspé airport is doing well. 

The mayor mentions that the Michel-Pouliot Airport should end the 2024 fiscal year with a balanced budget, based on overall expenditures of $1.5 million. 

Regular use by two carriers, Pascan and PAL, generates landing fees. In addition, the airport brings in more revenue with additional services. “All the aircraft electricity charging systems, we provide the fuel, the de-icing of the aircraft, all the services are now offered by the airport instead of dealing with a subcontractor. We are now making a profit from these operations, which makes the activities profitable,” illustrates the mayor. For example, Baie-Comeau recorded a deficit of $350,000 in 2024. 

Bilingualism: No news from the Quebec Government 

Gaspé has not heard back from the Quebec Government following a request to give a little more latitude to communicate in English with citizens of the English-speaking community. 

Bill 96 requires communications in French, except in tourist communications or in emergency situations. 

“There is no response. The law was adopted for all of Quebec. There is no exemption for Gaspé. I imagine we will have to respect it,” says Mr. Côté. 

Vision Gaspe Perce Now will translate and transmit the communications. “They do it of their own free will. I applaud this initiative,” notes the mayor, who would like Quebec to take into account the historical particularity of Gaspé. 

Canadian and international instability 

The threats of 25% tariffs by American President-elect Donald Trump, the resignation of Liberal leader and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on January 6, and the uncertainty caused, not to mention world events, particularly those in South Korea or armed conflicts, are of concern to the mayor of Gaspé. 

Daniel Côté mentions that several sectors of the local and regional economy are at risk. “Our fishing industry exports a lot to the United States. Our wind industry exports almost exclusively to the United States. If there are 25% tariffs on everything manufactured here, it will hurt our economy,” notes the elected official. 

“We have to stick together, our business community or our council have to stick together to at least provide a minimum of stability to weather this storm. It’s part of my wishes for 2025,” the mayor mentions as a possible solution, admitting that in the end, it might not change much, but he adds that it’s worth a try. 

Mayor of Gaspé alleges Pascan inflated its rates; the company denies claims Read More »

No going back on reduced hours at local border crossings

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Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Reduced service hours at the Herdman, Trout River, and Lacolle Route 223 ports of entry went into effect on January 6.

The hours of service at the Herdman crossing, which connects the municipality of Hinchinbrooke to Chateaugay, New York, as well as the Trout River crossing that links Elgin with Constable, New York, have now been reduced by half: from 24 hours to 12, between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The hours at the Lacolle Route 223 border crossing at Rouses Point in New York have also been reduced from 24 hours to 12: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The joint decision to scale back the operating hours was announced in November by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), as part of a collaborative effort to coordinate the service hours at connecting ports of entry.

Despite an outcry from residents and local politicians on both sides of the border, as well as a concerted effort by Salaberry-Suroît MP Claude DeBellefeuille, the CBSA is intent on permanently maintaining the new hours.

In December, DeBellefeuille addressed a formal letter to Dominic Leblanc, then the minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Government Affairs, in which she asked for the CBSA’s decision to be reassessed while suggesting that a closing time of 10 p.m. would be more appropriate.

A formal response was received on January 2 from Andrew Lawrence, the director general of the CBSA’s Travellers’ Operational Guidance and Support Branch, on behalf of David McGuinty, the current minister of Public Safety.

Lawrence states that as a result of these changes, “Canada and the U.S. are able to resolve problems related to incompatible hours of operation at ports of entry.” These issues can include security risks posed by open barriers at ports of entry, coordination difficulties between the CBSA and CBP in the event of incidents, and delays in the removal of inadmissible travellers and goods to the other country.

Lawrence also refers to a study of operational pressures, peak periods, and related service requirements, which indicated that most of the affected entry points cleared – on average – no more than two cars or commercial vehicles per hour during the period in which they are now closed.

DeBellefeuille confirms that the Bloc Québécois requested a breakdown, by hour, of the number of crossings at both the Herdman and Trout River ports of entry from the CBSA; it showed numbers that were above the two vehicle-per-hour average.

The deputy says that since November, her team has received over 50 testimonials from local residents detailing how this decision will impact their daily lives. She has spoken out against the CBSA decision in the House of Commons and through the media, and shares that at least two municipalities, Elgin and the town of Huntingdon, have adopted resolutions similarly denouncing the reduction in operating hours.

DeBellefeuille says that despite her interventions, as well as the testimonials from locals and accurate traffic data, the CBSA has maintained its decision.

“Unfortunately, the response we received leaves no room for questioning this decision,” says DeBellefeuille. “Clearly, despite our best efforts, we have not succeeded in convincing the competent authorities.”

No going back on reduced hours at local border crossings Read More »

Gaétan Lelièvre not impressed by PAAR 2.0 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

observer for 40 years and someone who has been in charge of the Rocher-Percé and Town of Gaspé airports, Gaétan Lelièvre believes that the adjustments coming in February to the Regional Air Access Program will provide little to no benefits to passengers. 

Since the first summit on air transport in February 2018, held in Lévis under the Liberal government of Philippe Couillard, the former Minister Delegate for Regions under the Marois government and Member of the National Assembly for Gaspé believes that little progress has been made. 

“Absolutely not, or minimally. Ways to see progress would be to have an accessible and affordable service, which is not the case. From the moment you don’t have a service that is accessible seven days a week, reliable, at an affordable price, I don’t think there is any significant progress for the citizens of the regions,” analyzes Mr. Lelièvre. 

However, he acknowledges one positive aspect, travellers no longer need to pass through Quebec City and Montreal to be eligible for the discount. 

“But, in practice, there is no carrier that provides a connection between Gaspé and the Côte-Nord, Gaspé and Abitibi or Gaspé and Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean. Yes, we are giving access to a discount for an interregional trip without going through the metropolis or the capital, but will there be carriers that will develop these markets? That remains to be seen. That is the only element that could be positive about the announcement,” mentions Mr. Lelièvre. 

“With the current carriers, it is very unlikely that we will develop these lines. We will have to consider cooperative-style formulas where the regions will be involved, where the government will support these initiatives with a view to regional development and land use and not just to make profits,” adds the regional development consultant. 

He does not sense any government will to support initiatives like TREQ or the idea of a cooperative mentioned by the managers of the Mont-Joli Airport. 

“There isn’t any concrete action by the government to support this type of initiative. On the contrary, when we look at the announcements, it is a step backwards in terms of service. The $500 tickets are disappearing. We are told that we will have, for example, in Gaspé a 50% discount. I looked on Pascan’s website and, at a regular price, we have a Gaspé-Montreal at $1,500 and with the 50% discount, that comes to $750 that users will have to pay, unlike the old program that offered tickets when there were availabilities at $500,” calculates the former elected official. 

“What is absurd is that the minister hopes that, with these changes, ridership will increase. I cannot understand this logic, which only applies to the government. We increase prices, we do not improve the service and we think we will increase the clientele? I have rarely heard that. It is a unicorn world,” he says. 

Mr. Lelièvre also mentions a study conducted by the Institute for Research in Contemporary Economics (IREC). In that study, Quebec ranked tenth (last place) for air transportation in Canada. 

“New Brunswick, with its 800,000 inhabitants, is managing to hold its own. Do we like to compare ourselves with Ontario? We are not just behind Ontario, we are behind the nine Canadian provinces. This demonstrates the need to prioritize this issue. Unfortunately, this does not seem to have been the case for several years and it is not just the fault of the current government. The problem has been in place for years,” concludes Mr. Lelièvre. 

Gaétan Lelièvre not impressed by PAAR 2.0  Read More »

Quebec presents Version 2.0 of the PAAR for regional air transportation

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – After months of waiting, the Quebec government is finally launching its expanded, simplified version 2.0 of the Regional Air Access Program (PAAR), hoping that it will stimulate air traffic in Quebec’s regions. “We are setting the table to improve the situation for all carriers who would like to improve their offer,” says the head of air transportation for the CAQ (Coalition Avenir Québec) government and Member of the National Assembly for René-Lévesque, Yves Montigny, who travelled to Gaspé on December 10 to announce the new version with the Minister of Transport, Geneviève Guilbault. 

“We want to put the best model in place to allow markets to develop and operate on their own in the long term,” adds Mr. Montigny. Among the new features, the “$500” tickets are being eliminated to make way for a discount modulated according to distance, between 50% and 85%. According to the Québec government, from Gaspé, the discount percentage will be increased from 30% to 50%. 

A Gaspé-Montreal flight that cost around $915, came to $640. As of February 3, the date of implementation of the adjusted version of the PAAR, the flight will only cost $500. 

Another change is that the two current programs are merged into one, and instead of having to fill out documents to recover the credits, they will be directly reflected in the cost of the ticket with the carrier. There is also no longer a limit to the number of trips for one person. Tickets will no longer be offered only to go to Quebec City or Montreal. Discounts can apply to flights between regions or intraperitoneally. 

“We are creating better conditions to have more flights for all Quebec citizens, both to go from the regions to the major centres, from the major centres to the regions, but also from one region to another,” says Mr. Montigny. 

Non-profit organizations and also student trips will now be eligible for version 2.0, However, business clientele will not be entitled to it, even though the Fédération des Chambres de Commerce du Québec demanded it. 

“For people who travel for work, there is the whole issue of fly-in, fly-out. I don’t think it’s the government’s role to fund workers to get to work. We can’t pay for all of Quebec’s tickets. We have to draw a line somewhere,” explains the Minister of Transport. 

The first version of the PAAR, which began in June 2022, was budgeted at $50 million per year. For 2024-2025, until March 31, 2027, the program is increasing to $59 million per year. 

“We were given an additional $9 million each year,” comments the minister. 

In addition, the program will allow people to book their tickets more than six months in advance, which is not currently possible. 

According to the Quebec government, the changes made take into account not only the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Regional Air Transport, in place since winter 2023, but also the concerns of the various regional stakeholders. The president of the UMQ Air Transport Committee and mayor of Gaspé, Daniel Côté, welcomes the progress made by Quebec, criticizing Ottawa for its inaction. 

“In the current state of affairs, we welcome what the Quebec government is doing, unlike the federal government, which is adding new standards and new constraints that cost carriers and airport managers money, but does nothing concrete,” says Mr. Côté 

Regulating regional air transport is once again mentioned, but Daniel Côté is giving the runner a chance with version 2.0 of the program. 

“If demand really increases with this incentive, we will bet that supply will follow. We are stimulating demand to create additional supply. We would be on a good trend but I continue to believe that the convincing solution in the medium and long term would be to regulate the markets, but carriers are cautious, but we need them to offer the service,” continues the mayor. 

In the current context, the mayor believes that if carriers generate more profits, services will improve.  “What we would like is for services to be adapted to the needs of the population. Currently, when we leave Gaspé in the late afternoon and return in the morning, it does not meet our needs. We need to leave in the morning to return in the evening. If we have to sleep outside before returning, it is not profitable for the region,” believes the mayor of Gaspé. 

“The federal government would be able to put a few million to do similar work to improve what Quebec is doing, but it is radio silence,” repeats the mayor. 

In October, Federal Member of Parliament Diane Lebouthillier indicated that the federal government considers the organization of flights a provincial responsibility, with the federal government acting mainly in terms of security. 

Quebec presents Version 2.0 of the PAAR for regional air transportation Read More »

Canada/U.S. border hours to be halved at local crossings

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Travellers who frequently use the Trout River or Herdman border crossings to enter the United States are in for a shock.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced on Monday that it would be adjusting the service hours at 35 land ports of entry across the country as of January 6, 2025. This is being done in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which is adjusting its service hours at 38 ports of entry.

In the Haut-Saint-Laurent, the hours of service at the Trout River crossing, which connects the municipality of Elgin to Constable, New York, will permanently be reduced by half – from the current 24 hours to 12, between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. The Herdman crossing, which links the municipality of Hinchinbrooke with Chateauguay, New York, will also be limited to between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The Lacolle Route 223 border crossing at Rouses Point in New York will similarly see its hours reduced, from 24 hours to 12: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Trout River border crossing in Elgin is one of three area crossings that will see its operating hours reduced by half, following a collaborative agreement between the Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The reduced hours at the Trout River, Herdman, and Lacolle Route 223 (Rouses Point) ports of entry will start on January 6, 2025. (PHOTO Sarah Rennie)

In a statement, the CBSA said the changes will enhance overall security for both countries. “It will allow the CBSA to use its resources more efficiently by deploying officers at busier ports of entry. This will support the CBSA’s ability to process travellers and goods as well as to manage enforcement activities.”

The service hours at the three connecting U.S. ports of entry will now align with the Canadian hours of operation. The CBSA said this “will allow both countries to return inadmissible travellers and goods to the other country, which is more difficult when one side of the border is closed while the other remains open.”

The CBSA maintains the change is based on an “analysis of operational pressures, peak periods, and services required at the ports of entry, to minimize the impacts on border communities.”

According to the CBSA, the ports of entry process an average of two or less vehicles or commercial trucks per hour during the period they will no longer be in operation. The CBSA notes that alternative border crossing options exist within a 100-kilometre radius, notably at the Dundee-Fort Covington and the Hemmingford-Mooers ports of entry.

‘A misguided decision’

The Customs and Immigration Union (CIU), which represents CBSA officers and personnel, is demanding the agency reverse its decision. Union president Mark Weber referred to the move as an “incredibly misguided decision.” In a statement, the CIU said the decision was made without consulting frontline officers working at the affected ports, or the border communities in which the crossings are located.

A CBSA employee, who spoke with The Gleaner on condition of anonymity, confirmed that employees at the affected border crossings were given no advance warning of the reduction in hours. They said that officers were told they would not lose their jobs, but that some would be relocated to larger ports. “Our personal and family lives will be sacrificed because of this,” they added, noting the long commute that may be imposed on border service agency officers.

“Most locals think this is temporary, but it’s not. It’s permanent,” they pointed out, noting that while the custom offices will be closed at 6 p.m., travellers should not expect to cross up to the last minute. “It will be more like 5:30 or 5:45 p.m.”

The officer is concerned that security along the border will be impacted as well. “We are actually stopping people from coming in, criminals, drugs, and guns,” they said, while questioning how leaving a nearly 80-kilometre stretch of the border less secure overnight improves security.

Impact on families and the economy

Elgin director general Guylaine Carrière said the CBSA contacted her about the reduced hours. She says members of the council expressed their disappointment with the decision when she relayed the news, noting it will be a discussed during the regular meeting in December.

“I find it very, very early,” said Carrière of the 6 p.m. closing. “It will have a major impact on a lot of the families here in Elgin,” she added, while suggesting there will no doubt be consequences for the local economy as well. She was also taken aback by how soon the changes will come into force, noting the timeframe does not give people and businesses much time to adapt.

Carrière said she spoke with the CBSA about the fire-rescue mutual aid agreements that exist on both sides of the border, and was told a procedure would be put in place to allow first responders to cross at all hours in the event of an emergency. She admitted that while this is positive news, there were delays in response times when the border was closed during the pandemic.

The reduced hours are problematic for those who live on one side of the border but who work on the other, or who cross regularly for work. For Rick and Kenny Van Winden, who own land and farm in Chateauguay and Burke, New York, the new hours will be particularly challenging.

“They have been combining there for the last couple of weeks, and they are not home until 11 or 12 at night,” said Natalie Wattie, who is married to Kenny. “It is going to cause some problems, because while some springs and falls are ok, some are not. If you are planting and missing that window because you can’t cross, then you can’t get your crops in on time,” she explained.

“There is never a time when they are done at 5:30 p.m.,” Wattie added, noting the detour to Hemmingford or Dundee on a tractor would be “insane.”

Politicians express concern

New York State senator Dan Stec issued a statement on November 21 blasting the decision. “You can’t have a part-time border!” he exclaimed; while highlighting the disruption this will cause to the unique relationship that exists between communities, referring specifically to the mutual-aid pacts in place. The senator also pointed to the “turmoil” created in the region by irregular immigration, to suggest the move will impact the safety of those living along the border.

New York governor Kathy Hochul has publicly stated her opposition to reducing operating hours at the border, calling on the CBP to reverse its decision.

 On the Canadian side, Salaberry-Suroît MP Claude DeBellefeuille has also come out against the CBSA’s decision. “I cannot support a reduction in service that will have an impact not only on citizens, but also on businesses in our region,” she said, while decrying the lengthy detours this will entail. “I am already getting calls from businesses expressing their dissatisfaction,” she added.

“We know that there are major issues at the border,” said DeBellefeuille. “It strikes me as an odd time for the Border Services Agency to cut their services.”

The MP is now asking citizens and businesses who are affected by this announcement to contact her team so they can document the impact of the CBSA’s decision in the region.

Those interested in sharing their story can contact DeBellefeuille’s office by email at: claude.debellefeuille@parl.gc.ca.

Canada/U.S. border hours to be halved at local crossings Read More »

Walker Bridge in Huntingdon remains closed

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Ministère des Transports et de la Mobilité durable closed the Walker Bridge in Huntingdon on October 29 immediately following an accident involving a cube truck.

The century-old structure, which spans the Chateauguay River, was closed as a precaution after a cube truck collided with the clearance gauge as it approached the bridge.

The Walker Bridge in Huntingdon has been closed since October 29 following a collision between a cube truck and a clearance gauge. (PHOTO Sarah Rennie)

The clearance structure was damaged due to the collision. Marie-Michelle Pilon, the communications advisor and regional spokesperson for Montérégie, says the gauge needs to be repaired, particularly the bases and anchors that support the structure.

Pilon confirms the work will take place “over the next few weeks,” and that this will allow the bridge to be safely reopened.

Walker Bridge in Huntingdon remains closed Read More »

SCFG tourist train put on hold for now

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

NEW RICHMOND – Still waiting for a response to a funding request from the Quebec government, the Société du chemin de fer de la Gaspésie has temporarily put its tourist train project with automotive passenger cars on hold. 

The Société du chemin de fer de la Gaspésie (SCFG) had a purchase option that cost it $12,000 per month, with a Vermont company, to acquire 12 automotive cars to develop a multi-purpose tourist train, a project valued at nearly $15 million, including equipment modernization. 

“We are forced to put the project on hold, which we had submitted following a market study in the spring. Unfortunately, we were unable to secure the financial package to make the acquisition before the end of the purchase option, which terminated at the end of September and which we had extended by one month to give the two levels of government time to analyze our project,” says SCFG president Éric Dubé. 

The transporter could have borrowed the amount to proceed with the purchase but, without financial assistance, it was too risky. 

“We haven’t had a negative response even though they are analyzing it and seeing how to secure something because there is no regular program for our project. It required a longer ordeal to secure the financing. I understand that the economic context of the Quebec government meant that it didn’t move quickly to say ‘yes’,” explains Mr. Dubé. 

However, the project is not dead. “We’re going to work on something else this winter. We still have the Amiral train and, if we can secure funding, will we have the opportunity to find automotive cars? The project remains on the drawing board. After investing so much money to rehabilitate the rail between Matapedia and Gaspé, I don’t see why we couldn’t land a tourist train project,” he says. 

The automotive cars required a year of work before being operational, including adding toilets in the cars. They were originally used on a Texas commuter service before being acquired by Vermont-based AllEarth Rail. 

The SCFG market study that was tabled over the spring was linked to Percé. It would be difficult to run a tourist train in 2025 between Port-Daniel-Gascons and Matapedia. 

“Would there be tourism potential between Matapedia and Port-Daniel-Gascons? The study didn’t confirm it for the first year,” Mr. Dubé points out. 

The Amiral train could be an option, but it hasn’t been operational for a decade. It was essentially used between Gaspé and Percé in 2013 and 2014, except for a few excursions in the Bay of Chaleur area. 

“We were banking a lot on our project then (over the spring) so, we haven’t invested a lot of money to re-evaluate this (Amiral) equipment. It’s going to be part of the scenarios we’re going to study this winter. We’re lucky, it (the Amiral train) is in New Richmond. We have a company that’s capable of doing that (repairing it, Rail GD). When we know more about what needs to be done on it and the direction we’re going to take with the project, we’ll be able to come back and explain it further,” stresses Éric Dubé. 

“We’re giving ourselves time,” he concludes. 

AllEarth Rail equipment in good shape 

The AllEarth Rail automotive cars were refurbished in Montreal at the beginning of the 2000s and have been kept inside a warehouse since that time. 

Luc Lévesque, the SCFG’s director general, saw the machines in 2023 and affirmed that the equipment is in a very good state. Their refurbishment at the beginning of the 2000s was thorough, as the wiring and the mechanics were upgraded. The purchase option involves 12 Budd cars. 

The Amiral train consists of four passenger cars and two power-generating cars. The locomotive of that train was returned to New Richmond seven years ago and assigned to the SCFG freight trains. 

Having been vandalized on occasion, the five units, namely four passenger cars and one of the power generating cars, were transported from Gaspé to New Richmond at the end of May 2024. They had remained stranded in Gaspé since 2014, when the line was put in a dormant state in March 2015 by then Quebec Transport Minister Robert Poëti. A rockslide between Port Daniel and Gascons also contributed to leaving the cars in Gaspé. 

Transports Québec, which acquired the Matapedia to Gaspé line between March and May 2015, waited until May 2017 before announcing that the whole line would be upgraded. 

In March 2015, Minister Poëti offered the mayors of Rocher-Percé MRC the possibility of dismantling the line and turning it into a cycling trail, which was refused. 

(With contribution from Gilles Gagné) 

SCFG tourist train put on hold for now Read More »

Rocher-Percé Airport completes its facelift 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GRANDE-RIVIÈRE – The upgrade of Rocher-Percé Airport in Grande-Rivière is officially completed, with the inauguration of the new terminal on October 16. The building was renovated and expanded at a cost of $2.5 million. 

“This is the last step. We have efficient, safe and up-to-date facilities that are adapted for our employees, welcoming passengers with adapted facilities with a reception counter, and a beautiful waiting room. The controller now has a complete view of our runway,” notes Samuel Parisé, Prefect of the Rocher-Percé MRC. 

The airport ranks ninth in the province for the number of government planes. 

“The plane that lands the most is the ambulance plane. For us, it was a priority. We wanted our population to have access to a fast and efficient service and to leave quickly when they need urgent health services. This is an important aspect,” says the prefect. 

When the work to extend the runway was launched, the MRC mentioned the development of cargo and tourist planes.

“What we wanted before sitting down with certain developers was to have efficient and completed facilities. The runway is done, the terminal is done, the equipment has been modernized. We are now ready. When I propose a project, I want it to be complete in order to make the right decision based on what is offered,” says Mr. Parisé. 

The airport was originally built in 1986. Diane Lebouthillier, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Gaspésie- Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine recalls that, at one point, elected officials considered abandoning the runway. This reflection occurred when she was the MRC prefect from 2010 to 2015. 

“We had major discussions about whether we should keep or close the airport. It was part of the discussions at the time, and the decisions made by the council of mayors were to set aside $1 million for an airport development project. I am happy to see the culmination of the work,” notes Ms. Lebouthillier. 

The Canadian government is contributing $1.5 million to modernize the terminal. 

“The building we had before had holes, and letters were missing on the Rocher-Percé airport (sign). It was sad,” says Ms. Lebouthillier. 

The Québec government advanced $407,000 for this part of the project. 

In 2020, the airport saw its runway extended, and both the weather station and runway lighting were upgraded at a cost of $10.4 million. At the time, the Québec government provided $8.3 million in assistance for the work. 

With the completion of this project at the Rocher-Percé airport, all airports in Gaspésie – Bonaventure, Gaspé and Sainte-Anne-des-Monts – will have been upgraded. 

“It’s strategic. It’s an essential component of air positioning in our region. The Québec government has a clear vision, a vision that leverages infrastructure. We have just reached an important milestone in our territory,” says Gaspé MNA Stéphane Sainte-Croix. 

Now, the focus is on attracting more planes. 

“The big challenge is to make air transportation accessible to our community, to ensure that carriers have an interest. There is incredible potential here in terms of tourism, with the proximity of Percé Rock and the Pointe sector. There are opportunities to work on to restore air transportation to its full potential. We will soon be providing details for our upcoming programs,” says Mr. Sainte-Croix. 

“We are working on our support measures that encourage customers to turn more often to air transportation. We should be able to announce all of that soon,” he adds. 

Timeline: 

1986: The first runway was built at 1,600 feet. 

1991: Runway extended to 4,000 feet and asphalted; and construction of the first terminal. 

2020: Extension of the runway. 

2021: A Boeing 737 lands at the airport for the first time. 

2022: Start of work to expand the terminal. 

2024: Inauguration of the new terminal. 

Rocher-Percé Airport completes its facelift  Read More »

TRAM TRACKER: CAQ mandates Caisse Infra to build tramway Phase 1; RTC to run it

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

TRAM TRACKER: CAQ mandates Caisse Infra to build tramway Phase 1; RTC to run it

Peter Black, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

peterblack@qctonline.com

The Coalition Avenir Québec government, under political and time pressure, has given the green light to the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec Infra (CDPQ Infra) to kickstart Quebec City’s paused tramway project.

The decision came after a regular cabinet meeting on Oct. 9, communicated officially via a carefully worded CDPQ Infra news release, saying the pension plan agency “today accepted a new mandate from the government of Quebec to plan the first phase of the CITÉ plan and set up the organization required to ensure the proper development of the next stages of the tramway project.”

CITÉ stands for Circuit intégré de transport express, the name CDPQ Infra gave to the three-phase project it recommended in a study, released in June, of transportation needs in the Quebec City region the CAQ government ordered last fall.

The release notes: “CDPQ Infra will soon confirm the composition of the project team, which will include all the expertise needed for the mandate to move forward.”

The first phase would be a 15-kilometre tramway line linking Cap-Rouge and Boul. Laurier in the west with Saint- Roch and Charlesbourg in the east. An expansion of the South Shore (Lévis) bus service is also in the plan.

Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault told reporters after the cabinet meeting that CDPQ Infra is “being given the keys to planning Phase 1 of the tramway, so this is a very important step. This is confirmation that we are moving forward and taking the next step.”

While CDPQ Infra will be in charge of building the tram- way, its actual operation will be the responsibility of the Réseau de Transport de la Capitale (RTC), which manages the city’s existing transit network.

Coun. Maude Mercier Larouche, city executive committee member and RTC president, said in a statement, “We are pleased to see that the tramway project is progressing. … Our teams have all the experience and expertise needed to bring this crucial transportation project for Quebec City to life.”

The government mandate to CDPQ Infra contains a Dec. 15 deadline to file a final draft agreement containing more details on the roles of various players as well as the financial structure for the project.

Some political commentators see the deadline as hard to meet and a potential escape hatch for the CAQ government to delay and abandon the project with the prospect of a Conservative federal government on the horizon.

Québec Solidaire MNA Étienne Grandmont, who represents the Quebec City riding of Taschereau, said via an Oct. 9 news release, “Confirming partners is one thing, but I’m still waiting for the funding to be secured. The Dec. 15 deadline worries me; it’s the minister’s hand on the plug, and I fear she’s ready to pull the trigger.”

Limoilou Coun. and Transition Québec Leader Jackie Smith said, “We must immediately get the teams back to work by resuming the work that was interrupted a year ago. We want to see the funding promised for our city translate into new infrastructure as soon as possible.”

Nora Loreto, co-founder of Québec désire son tramway, told the QCT, “We’re very happy to see movement on the tramway file and look forward to this project being managed by the RTC.”

Mayor Bruno Marchand, whose revised higher budget for the tramway triggered the CAQ’s intervention, made a brief statement applauding the project restart. “I am delighted that the Quebec government is confirming with this gesture the implementation of the CITÉ plan. This is an essential project for the Quebec City region in the context of very strong population growth. We cannot wage an effective war on congestion without investing in the development of public transportation,” he said.

TRAM TRACKER: CAQ mandates Caisse Infra to build tramway Phase 1; RTC to run it Read More »

CAQ commits to ‘third link’ with call for ‘international interest’

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

CAQ commits to ‘third link’ with call for ‘international interest’

Peter Black, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

peterblack@qctonline.com

The Coalition Avenir Québec government is moving ahead with its off-again, on-again pledge to build a third link between Quebec City and the South Shore.

Transport Minister and Deputy Premier Geneviève Guilbault made the announcement on Oct. 11 of an “international call for interest” to parties to be considered as a partner in the development of the project.

Vowing that whatever option is decided will be “the best project at the best price,” Guilbault said if all goes according to plan a contract would be signed to build the link in early 2027.

Addressing a news conference in Complexe G following a technical briefing by transport ministry officials, Guilbault said the call for interest “marks an important step in the third link project, which will allow us to confirm the market’s interest in our project. I am convinced that we will arrive at the best solution to meet the fluidity needs of our citizens on both shores.”

The minister said the two principal objectives of the third link would be to ensure economic security for commercial transport in the event of the Pierre Laporte Bridge being closed and to reduce traffic congestion in the region.

Guilbault said the choice of which corridor the link would take would be decided by next summer, based on options identified in the report by the Caisse de depôt et placement Infra presented in June.

In a previous announcement of a third link proposal, the CAQ government had envisioned a bridge between the eastern ends of Lévis and Quebec City. A proposal prior to that envisioned a tunnel between the downtowns of the two cities.

Asked by the QCT how much influence politicians would have on the ultimate choice of a corridor, Guilbault said, “It’s too early to determine a specific corridor,” pending the submission of recommenda- tions from interested parties.

She also said having a bridge with enough clearance to allow for cruise ships to enter port in Quebec City or Lévis “would be taken into consideration.”

Transport officials and the minister did not exclude a tunnel as a preferred option, nor would they commit to the third link being used for public transit such as the tramway system.

Guilbault said in two years, after the next scheduled pro- vincial election, “we will be at a level of the evolution of the process [where] it will be irreversible.”

She said since all the op- position parties are opposed to the third link idea, the CAQ is the only one that is pursuing it. “People will realize we are actually doing it for real.”

Guilbault acknowledged the CAQ’s “credibility is at stake” with the third link project. “We have to demonstrate we are resolutely committed to the realization” of the project.

Opposition critics were quick to denounce this latest move by the CAQ. Liberal transport critic Monsef Derraji said in a statement, “It’s clear that this announcement is more about diverting attention from other issues than it is about genuinely advancing mobility in the greater Quebec City area. Should the CAQ lose power after 2026, this commitment could easily crumble. It all appears more like a campaign promise than a real solution.”

Québec Solidaire MNA for Jean-Lesage Sol Zanetti told reporters, “We will talk about it [the third link] for decades as the symbol of the promise of the electoral bauble that will never happen, that is irresponsible, that costs a lot, and that is useless.”

Parti Québécois MNA for Jean-Talon Pascal Paradis said, “There will be no project. It won’t happen. What we are being presented with today is a fabrication, a smokescreen.”

Guilbault would not commit to a price tag for the potential bridge or tunnel, saying it would be determined as the planning process proceeds. She highlighted the new collaborative approach the government is taking, saying, “[T]he government will work closely with the designer and the builder from the first stages of the project design.”

A series of calls for tenders will be launched in the spring “to obtain the professional services and support required throughout the project. A first call for tenders aimed at ob- taining consulting services in insurance and financial guarantees will be published in the coming weeks.”

The building of a third link was a CAQ promise in the 2018 election that brought the party to power. At the time, the party vowed that the project would be underway by the end of its first mandate.

CAQ commits to ‘third link’ with call for ‘international interest’ Read More »

The arrival of the first train in Gaspé might only happen in early 2027

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI journalist

 GASPÉ – The Gaspé riding Member of the National Assembly (MNA), Stéphane Sainte-Croix, makes no secret of the fact that the first train may not arrive at the Gaspé station in December 2026, as previously announced in June 2023. 

The last of the four major calls for tenders for the railway refurbishment between Port Daniel-Gascons and Gaspé, which were launched in March, opened on September 18. The announcement for that stretch was first made in November 2023, by Premier François Legault during his visit to the Gaspé Peninsula. 

However, according to the Quebec government’s electronic tendering site the contract has not yet been awarded, 

The estimate indicates that the expected duration of the contract without options is 28 months, which means the deadline is February 2027. 

“Following the opening, we are faced with the possibility that we will push back the agreed schedule. We will see with the selected bidders the state of play along the way but, indeed, we may have a challenge in terms of the schedule for the rest of things,” says Stéphane Sainte-Croix. “It is hasty to agree on the schedule, considering the discussions that will take place with the selected company, but it (a delay) is a possibility,” he adds. 

The commitment to refurbish the railroad to Gaspé remains strong. “Our objective has not changed: ensuring the complete connection of the Gaspé Peninsula railway to Gaspé remains a priority for all elected officials in the region and for mobilizing the government. That has not changed,” assures the MNA. 

His colleague from Bonaventure is a little more optimistic. “When I ask questions (to the Ministry of Transport), they tell me it’s possible,” affirms Catherine Blouin. 

After nine deadlines for the opening of bids for the call for tenders launched on March 21, the envelopes for two proposals received by the Ministry of Transport were opened on September 18. Pomerleau is requesting $258 million, while Partenariat Ferroviaire Gaspésie is proposing $286 million to carry out the projects in the plans and specifications. 

The work involves repairing two bridges in Gascons, the long bridge between Gascons and Newport, and another such structure in Newport, as well as the one in Douglastown at the mouth of the Saint-Jean River. Additionally, one of the two bridges between Grande-Rivière and Sainte-Thérèse-de-Gaspé must be replaced and a retaining wall in Pabos Mills is part of the bid. 

Quebec announced $872 million to rehabilitate the rail between Matapedia and Gaspé on June 27, 2023. The section between Caplan and Port-Daniel-Gascons must be fun  tional at the end of the current year. 

Exploramer’s expansion still assessed by the Quebec government 

Meanwhile, despite comments on social media to the effect that the additional aid requested to build the shark pool at the Exploramer museum in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts had been rejected, the MNA for Gaspé says that is not the case. 

“The file remains at the same level. We are still waiting for the update of the reviewed and corrected project in terms of the business plan and new financial assistance to be received,” mentions Mr. Sainte-Croix. 

According to him, communications are still happening, and the documents are pending. 

The MNA hopes that this matter will be resolved quickly in order to not compromise the 2025 tourist season. 

“Haute-Gaspésie cannot afford to lose its economic assets. This is an important one for the tourism industry. We hope to reach an agreement soon on the revision or maintenance of the assistance already granted. That is our wish,” he adds. 

Quebec had already granted $11 million of the initial $18 million for the renovation and construction of a pavilion dedicated to the museum’s St. Lawrence sharks. 

In March, after a meeting with stakeholders from Haute-Gaspésie, Stéphane Sainte-Croix mentioned that the project had changed significantly, as the aquarium expanded substantially without having previously notified the ministerial authorities, increasing the cost of the aquarium from $2.7 million to $12.7 million, “an increase of 370%, this is not normal,” adds the MNA. 

In this context, the MNA added that the Quebec government could not assume the new project alone. 

Exploramer is facing cost overruns of around $6.8 million. The museum has indicated it is prepared to make an additional effort by borrowing an extra $1 million. 

The arrival of the first train in Gaspé might only happen in early 2027 Read More »

Bids for the last of the four major tenders have finally opened

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

deadlines for the opening of bids for the last of four major calls for tenders launched on March 21 for the refurbishment of the railway between Port-Daniel-Gascons and Gaspé, the two proposals received by the Ministry of Transport were opened on September 18. 

Pomerleau is asking for $258 million and Partenariat Ferroviaire Gaspésie is suggesting $286 million to carry out the work in the call for bids. 

The work consists of repairing two bridges in Gascons, a third one between Gascons and Newport, another in Newport and one between Douglastown and Haldimand over the Saint John River. In addition, one of the two bridges between Grande-Rivière and Sainte-Thérèse-de-Gaspé must be replaced. A retaining wall at Pabos Mills is also part of the bid. 

The section between Caplan and Port-Daniel-Gascons is supposed to be functional by the end of 2024, with the section between Port-Daniel-Gascons and Gaspé ready for use in 2026. 

The contract duration is estimated at 28 months, according to the call for tenders, which suggests that the time frame to reach Gaspé by the end of 2026 is extremely tight. 

In June, the ministry indicated that questions submitted by contractors explained the postponements. Analysis is underway to validate the bids and award the contract if necessary. 

Another call for tender 

result remains unknown 

Meanwhile, the contract for the other revised call for tenders to repair various railway structures has still not been awarded. 

The public call for bids initially provided for the repair or construction of nine infrastructures, but the request for quotes now only covers bridges. 

The sites targeted are a small bridge in Pabos Mills, the Grand Pabos River bridge, the Pabos River bridge, the Barachois bridge, and bridge on Highway 132 in Barachois. 

The Ministry of Transport has removed the four retaining walls at Anse-à-Beaufils and Sandy Beach from the project. 

The ministry indicates that the revised contract is estimated at more than $50 million. 

Pomerleau submitted the lowest proposal of $79 million on August 28. Hamel Construction, the only other bidder, is asking for $83.8 million instead. 

For the first contract involving nine structures, only Pomerleau had submitted a bid of $104 million. 

The ministry had indicated in early June that it was analyzing several possibilities, while only one bidder submitted a proposal. 

The option of splitting the contract was ultimately retained, as indicated by our sources. Two of the four major contracts in the calls for tenders promised by Premier François Legault in November 2023 have been awarded so far. 

The first was with the Séma group from Sainte-Flavie for the rehabilitation of the bridges over Grande-Rivière and Anse-à-Brillant, and those over the Émile-Couture stream in Grande-Rivière and the beach in Gaspé will be rebuilt for $74.9 million. 

Stellaire Construction from Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures was awarded a $37 million contract for six bridges to be repaired in Pabos Mills, Pabos and Anse-à-Beaufils. Quebec announced $872 million to rehabilitate the rail line between Matapedia and Gaspé 

Bids for the last of the four major tenders have finally opened Read More »

City to jack tax on vehicle fee by $60 to boost transit service

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

City to jack tax on vehicle fee by $60 to boost transit service

Peter Black, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

peterblack@qctonline.com

Vehicle owners in Quebec City will be paying $60 more when they renew their registrations, a move by the city to raise money to expand urban transit service.

Mayor Bruno Marchand announced at a Sept. 11 news conference that the hike will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025, when the public transit contribution of vehicle registration will jump from $30 to $90, on top of the regular fee.

The $30 fee has been in effect since 1992; motorists in the Montreal region have been paying a special transit fee since 2011.

The measure, which the Quebec government made available to all municipalities in the province earlier this year, will affect some 300,000 vehicle owners in the Quebec City region. It is expected to raise $18.4 million in the first year, all of which, the mayor said, will be targeted to public transit improvements.

“We are waging a war on congestion,” Marchand said. “The longer we wait to develop the public transport network, the more congestion increases.”

Saying he was not happy to announce a fee increase, the mayor argued, “There is a cost associated with conges- tion. The family that has to buy a second or third car for their child who has to go to CEGEP represents an annual expense of thousands of dollars. The hours lost in traffic are time that people don’t have with their families and for themselves. Congestion has an economic cost and an impact on quality of life.”

The trade-off for the fee hike is an expansion of the Réseau de Transport de la Capitale (RTC) network with a plan rolled out over the next three years.

Each year, according to a press release, the RTC plans to add a new fast, high-frequency Metrobus-type route to serve the northern suburbs, a new peripheral sector served by Flexibus with local routes revised accordingly, extension of the àVélo bike-sharing network, and a new Parc-O- Bus lot.

Coun. Maude Mercier Larouche, RTC president and executive committee member, said, “Year after year, the same problem arises: the RTC wants to develop and improve its services, but the funding is not there. Today, we are taking steps to remedy this and are presenting you with an ambitious development plan that meets the needs of our citizens and users.”

Opposition councillors had a variety of reactions to the fee hike, a step dozens of other municipalities have already taken, with fees higher than Quebec City’s $60. Opposition Leader and Québec d’Abord Coun. Claude Villeneuve, whose party is the successor to former mayor Régis Labeaume’s Équipe Labeaume slate, convened a press conference to show plans for RTC network expansion that the Labeaume administration had drawn up – which he said were very similar to the plan Marchand unveiled.

Villeneuve told reporters, “We clearly have a mayor who is waving this plan around with his left hand and who, with his right hand, is going into the pockets of families to get more money – money that will not deliver more mobility and fluidity.”

Transition Québec Leader and Limoilou Coun. Jackie Smith, meanwhile, while sup- portive of the increased fee, offered other suggestions. In a news release, she proposed “the city offer the Opus card [transit pass] free of charge to residents of the neighbourhoods on the northern out- skirts of Quebec City who will pay the registration tax.

“The city is presenting us with an interesting project for what it will do with the money collected for the development of the public transit network in Quebec City, but I’m increasingly wary of these plans that are being dangled before us. As long as the CAQ is in power, I’m afraid that all mobility projects in Quebec City will remain imaginary projects,” said Smith.

To encourage drivers to try RTC services, the city plans to offer eight free bus tickets, a $30 value, upon request as of Jan. 1.

City to jack tax on vehicle fee by $60 to boost transit service Read More »

Switch error caused Godmanchester train derailment

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has concluded its investigation into the 2022 derailment of a Canadian National Railway Company train, just outside Huntingdon in the municipality of Godmanchester. A report on the investigation, which was released on February 8, attributes the accident to an incorrectly positioned switch.

The conclusion is the result of an in-depth analysis of the incident which took place just after 7 p.m. on December 11, 2022, when two head-end locomotives and six intermodal platforms left the track while travelling over a “switch point derail” linked to a radio-controlled switch system.

The train was being operated by a CSX crew in the Carr siding of the CSX Transportation Montreal Subdivision when it left the track. There were no injuries, and no cars carrying dangerous goods were involved in the incident; however, around 400 litres of diesel fuel were spilled from the locomotives. There was some damage to part of the siding and the main track at the derailment point.

A statement issued by the TSB clarifies that a “derail” switch prevents unauthorized movements or movements of unattended rolling stock from entering the main track. Once in position, the device is designed to derail any equipment that rolls over it.

The investigation determined that the locomotive engineer was distracted when he entered the code for the radio-controlled switch. As a result, the power-operated derail was not set in the correct position to allow the train to enter the main track.

The report alleges that the crew then misinterpreted visual and radio signals confirming the switch position, stating: “The train crew concluded that the auditory and visual confirmations issued by the power-assisted switch system corresponded to the required route for the train to leave the siding.”

The report notes that “Most radio-controlled, power-assisted derail switches linked to railway signals in Canada are equipped with a separate position indicator light and a reflectorized sign,” before pointing out the Carr siding was not equipped with either of these. The report also alleges the crew was unable to visually confirm the switch’s position due to the time of day and their distance from its position.

Data recorded by locomotive voice and video recorders (LVVRs) suggests the train was travelling at 22 miles per hour and accelerating before it left the track. There was no recorded effort on the part of the locomotive engineer to engage the emergency brakes. Train-initiated emergency brakes were engaged after the lead locomotive derailed.

In this case, the investigation discovered that data recorded by the lead locomotives voice and video recorders (LVVRs) did not include any voice recording from inside the cab, making it impossible to determine the verbal communications between the train crew members before the accident.

The lack of audio was related to the georeferencing system, which deactivates cab voice recording while the train is operating in the United States in compliance with U.S. regulations. The accident occurred so close to the Canada-U.S. border that the system prevented the activation of the cab’s microphones.

Patrick Sirois, a senior regional investigator with the TSB Rail/Pipeline Investigations Branch, was responsible for the investigation into the incident, which included work in the field to examine the derailment site and the wreckage, as well as interviews with witnesses.

The TSB does not assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability; the objective of the report is to advance transportation safety. As a result of the investigation, the TSB sent a letter to Transport Canada suggesting the functionality of voice and video recorders used by railway companies be verified to ensure they meet regulatory requirements.

The Gleaner reached out to CSX for a comment on the investigation findings but did not receive a response by press time.  According to the report, CSX confirmed to the TSB that as a result of the 2022 incident, the precise location of derail switches have been added to its Montreal Subdivision timetable, while also specifying the normal position of each one. 

Switch error caused Godmanchester train derailment Read More »

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