A Few More Cars, But Fewer Car Commuters: New Transit Montreal Area Transit Study

Some good news in this world of woe: public transportion use in Montreal increased by 15 per cent over the last five years, trips by foot and bike went up by 11 per cent, and for the first time in 40 years car commuting actually declined, by 1 per cent. In fact, 25 per cent of commuter trips are done by public transport now.

Monday transit and provincial government officials announced the result of a survey of 66,000 households. Part of an ongoing survey of transportation practices undertaken every five years since 1970, the most recent version was done in 2008. Among the highest increases in public transport use came in Laval and Longueuil, the suburban cities north and south of Montreal island. Three new Metro stations were opened in Laval 2007 with striking results: a 30 per cent jump in bus, métro and train use while automobile trips by Laval residents actually dropped by 1 per cent.

Bravo, I say. There are some caveats to note, though. One is that there are 10 percent more cars that before, even if people aren't using cars as much. The other is that all this transit use has meant more crowded buses, Metros and trains. What must be done now make sure the rolling stock necessary to serve the demand is bought and maintained, so that people don't switch back to using those cars they've got parked outside.