Montreal’s spring construction season is ramping up this weekend with several major closures poised to snarl traffic across the island. As Montrealers prepare for weekend activities, navigating the city will require extra planning and patience.
The Ville-Marie Tunnel will see significant disruptions as crews continue essential maintenance work that began earlier this month. Transport Quebec confirms complete overnight closures between Panet Street and Guy Street exits from Friday at 11 p.m. until Saturday at 8 a.m., with similar closures scheduled for Saturday night.
“We understand these closures create frustrations, but this preventative maintenance is crucial for infrastructure safety,” explains Marie Bellerose, spokesperson for Transport Quebec. “We recommend motorists plan alternative routes, especially those heading downtown for weekend events.”
The Décarie Expressway isn’t spared from the construction blitz. The southbound lanes between Jean-Talon and Sherbrooke will reduce to one lane throughout the weekend, with officials warning of potential delays exceeding 30 minutes during peak periods.
Meanwhile, the Honoré-Mercier Bridge continues its partial closure pattern that’s become familiar to West Island commuters. One lane will remain open in each direction, with traffic alternating on the Montreal-bound span while crews advance the multi-year rehabilitation project.
Notre-Dame Street presents another challenge with complete closure between Dickson and Viau streets due to water main replacement work. Local merchants express concern about the impact on weekend business.
“Every spring it’s the same story – construction everywhere,” sighs Jean Tremblay, owner of Café Saint-Henri near one closure site. “My weekend customers are already calling to ask about detours.”
For those planning to attend festivals or events downtown, public transit offers the most reliable alternative. The STM has announced additional metro service to compensate for road disruptions, though buses will follow detour routes in affected areas.
The ongoing infrastructure renewal across Montreal reflects the city’s aging road network. Last year alone, Transport Quebec invested over $450 million in Montreal road infrastructure, with similar budgets projected for 2024.
Weather may further complicate matters, with Environment Canada forecasting scattered showers throughout the weekend. Wet conditions typically slow construction progress and can create additional hazards for drivers navigating unfamiliar detours.
The Jacques-Cartier Bridge will remain fully operational, offering a crucial alternative for east-end commuters. However, transport officials warn of increased congestion on this route as drivers seek alternatives to other closed thoroughfares.
Cyclists face their own challenges with several bike path detours in effect, particularly along the de Maisonneuve corridor where utility work has temporarily disrupted the bike network.
“I’ve learned to check the city’s traffic app before heading out anywhere on weekends,” says Monique Lavoie, a Plateau resident who relies on cycling for transportation. “Otherwise, you can find yourself suddenly facing unexpected detours.”
The city’s traffic management center will monitor conditions throughout the weekend, adjusting signal timing where possible to mitigate congestion at key intersections. Real-time updates will be available through Quebec511 and the Montreal Circulation apps.
For those who must drive, transport officials recommend allowing at least 30 minutes of additional travel time, especially when crossing the island or heading downtown. The most severe congestion is expected Saturday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
As frustrating as these disruptions may be, they represent necessary investments in Montreal’s future mobility. The construction season typically extends through November, with intensity peaking during the summer months.
“C’est Montréal,” as we often say with a resigned shrug. The orange cones have become as much a symbol of our city as bagels an
