Major rail optimization project is completed at the Port of Montreal

The Montreal Port Authority has completed its extensive project to optimize rail capacity at its port facilities. The $62.4-million initiative phased over three years significantly increases the port’s rail capacity, which will improve the performance and fluidity of its logistical services.

Six kilometres (3.7 miles) of additional track and six switches to serve the port’s 14 terminals were installed. The port road along with its related infrastructure (such as water, power and telecommunication lines) were relocated. The project also involved erecting more than a kilometre (0.62 mi) of new retaining walls.

“Thanks to these significant improvements, we can not only increase our efficiency, but also substantially contribute to the local and regional economy," Julie Gascon, the MPA’s president and CEO, says.

Several measures were identified to minimize the project’s environmental footprint. They included conducting noise, dust, traffic and flora/fauna impact research before the project began. They also involved using excavated soil as backfill, constructing the new port road with recycled paving substance, and installing composite railway ties made of recycled plastic.

Funding from the governments of Canada and Quebec in the amounts of $18.4 million and $18.3 million respectively made the major infrastructure upgrades possible. The improvements are expected to optimize the port’s capacity to move 2,500 km (1,553 mi) of railcars annually. Approximately 45% of the port’s cargo is carried by rail at a rate of 60 to 80 trains per week.