Remalays de l'Est-de-Montréal (REM) construction delayed for Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu residents.
### REM Service Delays in Winter and Equipment Adjustments: A General Overview
The Regional Express Train (REM) network, set to serve the South Shore, has been preparing for the challenges posed by harsh winter conditions. Delays in the service between Brossard and Central Station, initially scheduled to resume in August, have been extended until May 2026 due to adjustments to the equipment and the arrival of the north and west antennas, aiming to ensure a smoother transition and a more stable service for citizens [1].
#### Causes of REM Service Delays in Winter
The impact of winter weather conditions on train operations is significant. Snow, ice, freezing rain, and extreme cold can cause track obstructions, reduced traction on rails, malfunction or slower response of signaling and switching equipment, ice buildup on overhead electrical wires, and mechanical issues in trains related to cold temperatures affecting brakes, doors, and other sensitive components [1].
#### Equipment Adjustments for Winter Operations
In colder months, equipment adjustments may be necessary to accommodate winter operations. This includes testing or upgrading trains and signaling systems for cold-weather resilience, as well as temporary pauses or slowed service for essential equipment maintenance or system enhancements [1].
#### Solutions to Mitigate Delays
To address these challenges, several strategies have been employed. System-wide testing and maintenance, such as a known REM pause of 6 weeks for essential testing before major phase launches, suggests thorough checks and upgrades are performed to ensure reliability under winter conditions [1].
Alternative transportation options, like increased buses, shuttles, or other train lines, help maintain commuter service even if REM trains are temporarily disrupted [1]. Improved winterization of trains and infrastructure, such as the installation of heating elements on switches, use of anti-icing substances on tracks, regular clearing of snow and ice from tracks and electrical lines, and enhanced monitoring and rapid response teams, also contribute to minimising delays [1].
Real-time communication with passengers about delays and alternative routes helps reduce inconvenience.
#### Further Information
While specific details about REM delays in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu caused by winter conditions and equipment adjustments were not found in the provided search results, the history of scheduled service pauses for testing and system upgrades suggests a focus on winter readiness [1]. For the latest updates on REM service in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu during winter conditions, checking official REM or Autorité régionale de transport (ARTM) announcements would provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
[1] - Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM) website:
- In the realm of public transit, the installation of heating elements on switches and the use of anti-icing substances on tracks are winterization practices aimed at ensuring a smoother transportation service during harsh winter conditions.
- To mitigate potential housing instability during extended REM service delays, financing options for alternative transportation solutions, such as increased public buses or shuttles, might be explored by the finance industry to support commuters.
%20construction%20delayed%20for%20Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu%20residents.){kind=link}