The Montreal transit authority has announced the extension of its no-loitering rule in the metro system until April 30, 2027. This measure aims to prevent homelessness within the metro, especially on platforms and corridors, amid concerns about public safety.
Enhanced Security Measures in Metro System
Aref Salem, the chair of the STM board, affirmed that the policy is effective in improving ridership confidence. He highlighted that this step is part of broader efforts to enhance security. The policy prohibits individuals from remaining stationary in the metro, a regulation that has been in place since March 2025 due to a significant increase in the homeless population.
Implementation of the No-Loitering Rule
This “obligation to circulate” policy allows transit officers to remove individuals without requiring evidence of wrongdoing. Since its instatement, the STM has executed this rule approximately 2,500 times a month. This enforcement is correlated with a reported 22% drop in disruptions caused by intentional acts between November 2025 and March 2026, compared to the previous year.
- Decrease in homelessness visibility: 36% reduction in individuals escorted outside the metro at closing.
- Minor reduction in incivility incidents: 2% decrease in constable interventions.
- Employee safety: After a 6% increase in assaults on staff in 2024, the situation has stabilized.
Community Concerns
Despite these improvements, community organizations criticize the measure. Andrew Marrocco, director of Mission St-Michael, reported that their services are overwhelmed, often exceeding their capacity. He noted the adverse impacts on the mental well-being and stability of the homeless population due to this policy.
Responses from Community Leaders
Critics from the Réseau d’aide aux personnes seules et itinérantes de Montréal (RAPSIM) express concerns over the lack of alternatives for those removed from the metro. Annie Savage, a spokesperson for RAPSIM, stated that hundreds are expelled weekly without sufficient support.
Ongoing Efforts for Improvement
In light of these issues, Aref Salem acknowledged that the no-loitering policy cannot function as a standalone solution. Plans are underway to enhance collaboration between the STM, municipal authorities, and community organizations to address homelessness effectively.
- Increased surveillance in metro stations.
- Text message service for reporting incivilities.
- Closure of several metro entrances to manage drug use and incivility.
Public Safety Perception
Current surveys show that only 52% of transit users feel safe in the metro, a decline from 62% two years ago. This drop highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the STM in ensuring a safe commuting environment.
Homelessness Statistics in Quebec
The issue of homelessness remains critical, with over 12,000 individuals reported living on the streets in Quebec, representing a 20% increase since October 2022. Montreal is the most affected area, with a rate of 230 homeless individuals per 100,000 residents, reflecting a 6.7% rise.
Continued efforts are essential to address these pressing homelessness and public safety issues in Montreal’s metro system.
