Montreal invests $30 million to expand one of North America’s leading cycling networks

Montreal, a city known for its active transportation culture, is set to expand and enhance its bike path network through an ambitious project. The City of Montreal announced on Tuesday its plans to invest $30 million in the development and improvement of approximately 59.1 kilometers of cycling infrastructure. With a total of 53 projects in the pipeline, this initiative aims to promote active mobility and make Montreal a carbon-neutral city by 2050.

“Our 2023 program improves cycling network connectivity and safety throughout Montreal, summer and winter,” said Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante, via social media. “A city that makes room for cycling is a fairer, healthier, and safer city. A city where life is good!”

The comprehensive cycling program will span 14 boroughs and extend to four neighboring municipalities, making it a significant step toward creating a more interconnected and accessible cycling network. The projects include various enhancements and additions to existing bike paths, as well as the creation of new lanes in strategic locations.

One notable project involves extending the Verdun Street bike path all the way to Atwater Avenue, providing cyclists with an extended route and better connectivity. Additionally, the city plans to develop new one-way lanes on Christophe-Colomb Avenue, set to be introduced later this year. These lanes will offer safer cycling options for residents and further contribute to the overall expansion of the network.

Another key project involves the development of a two-way path on Prieur East Street, which will link the Montreal North and Ahuntsic-Cartierville boroughs. This connection will facilitate easier and more convenient cycling between these areas, encouraging residents to choose active transportation as a viable commuting option.

Furthermore, the construction of the new Bourbonniere Avenue bike path will provide a direct link between the Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie and Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve boroughs. This addition will enhance accessibility and promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation within these neighborhoods.

In addition to these projects, the city plans to create a two-way path on Bourret Avenue, serving as a safe crossing for cyclists north of Sherbrooke. This development will address the need for improved infrastructure and further encourage individuals to opt for cycling as a means of travel.

The Vision Velo program, which spans four years and will continue until 2027, aims to add a total of 200 kilometers of bike lanes to Montreal’s network. By investing in cycling infrastructure, the city seeks to provide a safe and efficient environment for current cyclists while also encouraging more people to embrace cycling as a viable mode of transportation.

Montreal city councillor Marianne Giguere emphasized the city’s commitment to active mobility and its dedication to encouraging citizens to adopt sustainable transportation options.

“When we unveiled our Cycling Vision 2023-2027 in the autumn, we reaffirmed the extent to which the development of Montreal’s cycling network is a priority for us,” said Giguere. “We are pursuing our active mobility efforts to encourage people to get moving, to travel efficiently and enjoyably while helping to make Montreal a carbon-neutral city by 2050. Our administration is proud to always offer more mobility options in the metropolis, in particular by promoting the practice of walking and cycling all year round, in several Montreal boroughs.”

The expansion of the bike path network aligns with the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.

Montreal’s commitment to developing its cycling network and improving active transportation options reflects its dedication to creating a greener and more livable city. Through these investments, the city aims to foster a culture of cycling and make it a convenient and enjoyable choice for residents and visitors alike.