During the mid-20th century, urban transit in Canada went through significant changes due to suburban growth and the rising popularity of cars. This period saw new transit projects in major cities, shaping urban landscapes for years to come.

Urbanization and Transit Challenges
After World War II, Canada experienced rapid urbanization. The urban population jumped from 54 per cent in 1941 to over 70 per cent by 1961. This growth put a lot of pressure on city infrastructure, especially transportation. The need for efficient transit options grew as cities spread outwards with new suburban neighbourhoods. However, this spread made it tough for existing transit systems, designed mainly for downtown areas, to keep up.

The growth of suburbs and more people owning cars led to better road infrastructure and a social shift towards driving. This caused a drop in public transit use as people preferred the convenience of cars. Transit systems were strained, highlighting the need for better urban transportation planning that integrated both suburban and urban needs, managed congestion, and ensured accessibility for everyone.

In response, Canadian cities started exploring new transit solutions. These included expanding bus routes, developing rapid transit systems like subways and light rail, and improving pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. These efforts aimed to balance the needs of private and public transportation while promoting sustainable urban growth and economic development.

End of an Era and Start of a New One
In 1955, Vancouver saw the end of its 65-year streetcar era as the last streetcar ran through the city. Rising car ownership and suburban expansion led to the preference for the flexibility of buses over fixed rail routes. In 1958, Premier W.A.C. Bennett established the British Columbia Ferry Authority (BC Ferries) to modernize maritime transportation between islands and the mainland, meeting the growing travel demands in coastal communities.

Montréal’s Subway Dream Becomes Reality
In 1961, Montréal got the green light to start a major subway project led by Mayor Jean Drapeau. Inspired by a rivalry with Toronto, which recently opened its own subway system, the project aimed to reduce traffic congestion and modernize public transit. The Montreal Metro featured innovative rubber-tire cars and unique station designs, setting it apart from other systems and offering quieter, smoother rides.

Construction began in 1962, with measures to minimize disruptions. The subway was routed under De Maisonneuve Boulevard instead of the busier Sainte-Catherine Street to reduce construction impact. The first phase of the Metro, with 26 stations across three lines (Green, Orange, and Yellow), was completed in time for Expo 67, Montreal’s World’s Fair. The Metro became a key transportation link for millions of visitors, showcasing the city’s modernity and innovation.

Public Ownership and Administration
Many Canadian cities took over public transit operations from private companies to tackle financial issues and declining ridership:

• Hamilton: The Hamilton Street Railway became publicly owned by the city in 1960.
• Winnipeg: The Winnipeg Electric Company’s transit system was taken over by a Metropolitan Commission in 1953 and later by the Metropolitan Council of Greater Winnipeg in 1961.
• Vancouver and Victoria: The transit systems in these cities were acquired by the British Columbia

Hydro and Power Authority in 1962 to ensure coordinated transit planning and investment.
A 1961 report by the Technical Advisory Committee on Urban Transportation, with help from CUTA, emphasized the need for comprehensive urban transportation policies. The report called for federal and provincial support for balanced transportation systems and integrating public transit improvements with road infrastructure developments to sustain urban mobility and economic efficiency.

A Transformative Decade
The years from 1955 to 1964 were transformative for Canadian urban transit. The rise of modern rapid transit systems and the challenges posed by suburbanization and car dominance laid the foundation for future urban transit policies and infrastructure investments that continue to shape Canadian cities today.