Quebec City residents should prepare for significant traffic disruptions as construction on the city’s new tramway project intensifies this spring. City officials are warning that the extensive construction, slated to start mid-April, will inevitably lead to delays and even “days of chaos” for commuters.
The ambitious TramCité project, intended to redefine mobility in Quebec City and provide a sustainable transportation alternative, will bring a wave of construction to several key areas. Even as the initial phase of work, which began Saturday, saw limited impacts – primarily minor issues near the Grand Theatre and some traffic light synchronization problems – officials anticipate more substantial consequences as additional sites open.
According to Marc des Rivières, director of the city’s transportation service, “There will be days where it’s going to be chaos.” Construction is planned for areas including Boulevard de la Chaudière, Rue Mendel, near Boulevard Pie-XII, and Boulevard des Quatre-Bourgeois, between Pie-XII and Duplessis. The project’s timeline remains somewhat fluid, with some forestry work near Pie-XII having been moved up a week, while work on the Montée Mendel has been delayed by a week.
Despite the anticipated disruptions, the city reports a positive initial assessment of the tramway and accompanying bus network transition. However, authorities are maintaining a vigilant approach as the project progresses. The first phase of construction saw a positive response, but the coming weeks will test the city’s ability to manage the increased construction footprint.
The intensification of construction work beginning in mid-April will significantly increase the number of construction sites in the western part of the city, leading to more widespread traffic restrictions. This project underscores the challenges of modernizing urban infrastructure while minimizing disruption to daily life. Radio-Canada has more on the anticipated challenges.
City officials are advising residents to expect delays and plan accordingly as the tramway project moves forward. More information on the construction sites is available on the City of Quebec website. TVA Nouvelles and Journal de Québec also reported on the project’s initial progress and the potential for disruptions.
