Two major transit milestones are making headlines this month, as Toronto commuters prepare for the early reopening of the King and Dufferin intersection, and Montreal gears up for the launch of the Deux-Montagnes branch of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM).

King and Dufferin Intersection to Reopen Two Weeks Early

Good news for Toronto travellers—construction at the King Street West and Dufferin Street intersection is wrapping up ahead of schedule. The intersection will reopen this Thursday, two weeks earlier than expected, as the TTC completes renewal work on aging streetcar tracks. Once reopened, vehicles, TTC buses, and cyclists will be able to pass through the intersection. Streetcar service will resume next week following final testing of the new tracks. The project affected several routes, including the 504 King, 508 Lake Shore, 503 Kingston Road, 29 Dufferin, and 929 Dufferin Express. Originally scheduled for last year, the work was delayed due to supply chain issues but has now reached completion earlier than planned—welcomed news for local commuters and businesses.

Deux-Montagnes REM Branch Launches November 17

In Montreal, the transit network is set for a major expansion. The Deux-Montagnes branch of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) will officially launch on November 17, extending rapid transit service to thousands of new riders. Trains will begin running at 5:30 a.m. from both Deux-Montagnes and Brossard. Evening service will end at 9 p.m. to allow continued testing ahead of the Anse-à-l’Orme branch opening next spring. To support the launch, the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM), EXO, and the Société de transport de Laval (STL) have redesigned local bus networks. Riders can expect improved frequency, extended schedules, including evenings and weekends, and more efficient connections to employment, education, and leisure hubs. Partner teams will also be available on-site to help passengers adjust to the new routes. Mitigation measures, such as bus routes running parallel to the REM line, will remain in place to provide backup service in case of interruptions. To access the REM, passengers will need an All Modes (A–D) fare pass, which allows seamless transfers across all public transit services within their fare zones. Once fully complete, the REM will span 67 kilometres with 26 stations, linking downtown Montreal to the South Shore, West Island, North Shore, and Montreal-Trudeau Airport—creating one of the most connected transit systems in North America.