MONTREAL - More commuter trains will be rolling down the tracks in the suburbs west of the city of next year, thanks to $20 million in upcoming improvements to the Vaudreuil-Hudson train line.
Switching and signaling equipment will be upgraded with the cash supplied from the Quebec government and the AMT transit authority.
One result of the renos is that six more trains per day will roll down the tracks starting sometime in 2013.
Also the trains will be timelier.
"Delays are reduced when they happen, and the traffic flow will be better managed with the railways," explained Paul Cote, President of the AMT transport service, which manages the line. "I think that is one thing passengers will greatly appreciate."
The AMT and the government say the service on this line has seen a major improvement over the past three years.
"In 2009, in January, we had a very tough time on this line. One train in four was late and the government committed itself to making a series of improvements," said local MNA Geoff Kelley.
The AMT still has to share the tracks with the Canadian Pacific and the constant freight car traffic will prevent a major increase of service outside of rush hours.
This led some to renew suggestions of a more comprehensive train to the west that politicians and residents have long lobbied for.
"The solution for commuters on the west end of the island and off island is the trains de l'ouest," said Pointe Claire Mayor Bill McMurchie.
