Quebec cities demand urgent transit funding to avert $20B crisis by 2035

A group representing Quebec’s largest cities is demanding more funding for public transit. They warn that without stable financial support, key infrastructure—like Montreal’s metro and bus depots—will continue to deteriorate. The call comes as transit agencies face a $20 billion shortfall just to maintain existing services by 2035. The Union des municipalités du Québec’s large cities caucus, led by Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, highlighted the financial strain on transit systems. Marquis-Bissonnette, who is also Gatineau’s mayor, criticised the province for wasting money on unfinished projects. She pointed to a Quebec City garage for electric buses, where funding was pulled mid-construction.

Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer echoed these concerns, describing the government’s funding approach as inconsistent. He cited a Concorde Boulevard project that was abandoned after $2.2 million was spent on planning. Meanwhile, Edmond Leclerc, chair of the Association du transport urbain du Québec, warned of a $550 million gap in operational funding over the next few years.

The group is pushing for long-term, predictable funding with fewer bureaucratic hurdles. They argue that proper investment in transit improves quality of life for residents. Without it, critical repairs—such as a needed lift in Sherbrooke for bus maintenance—will remain unaddressed. The municipalities’ request follows years of underfunding that has left transit networks struggling. Montreal’s aging metro and other systems require urgent attention, but the $20 billion needed by 2035 remains unsecured. Officials insist that without changes, service reliability and safety will suffer.