Proposal for the Merger of CN and CP Railways: Enhancing Urban Transportation and Safety in Montreal

A Vision for Merging CN and CP Railways: Enhancing Urban Transportation and Safety in Montreal

Introduction

I have a visionary idea to merge the Canadian National (CN) and Canadian Pacific (CP) Railways. The goal is to move freight lines out of city centers and significantly increase passenger transport within urban areas, particularly focusing on Montreal. The above map shows the two competing railways. This concept also involves redeveloping the rail lines running through Montreal, allowing for buildings to be constructed over the tracks and adding crossings near the Van Horne Viaduct to enhance safety.

The Rationale for the Idea

Currently, CN and CP Railways operate independently, with both freight and passenger trains sharing tracks in and around urban centers. This dual-use system often leads to congestion, delays, and inefficiencies. By merging CN and CP Railways, freight operations could be streamlined and moved to dedicated lines outside city centers. This shift would free up urban tracks for passenger trains, facilitating more frequent and reliable public transport services.

Urban Development and Safety Enhancements in Montreal

Montreal stands to benefit immensely from this idea. The rail lines that run through the city, particularly those intersecting with the Van Horne Viaduct, could be the focus of significant development efforts. These efforts aim to transform the urban landscape and address critical safety concerns.

1. Building Over the Rail Lines: One aspect of the idea is to develop the space above the rail lines. This would involve constructing buildings and other structures over the tracks, and integrating the railway into the city's architectural landscape. This approach could maximize land use in the densely populated city and create new commercial and residential spaces.

2. Improved Crossing Infrastructure: Safety is a paramount concern, especially near the Van Horne Viaduct, where numerous injuries have occurred due to inadequate crossing facilities. This idea includes constructing well-designed pedestrian crossings at critical points, equipped with modern safety features, ensuring safe and convenient passage for residents.

3. Noise and Pollution Reduction: Moving freight lines out of the city could significantly reduce noise and air pollution, improving the quality of life for Montreal residents. The freed-up urban tracks could be utilized for quieter, more environmentally friendly passenger trains, contributing to a greener urban environment.

Potential Benefits

1. Enhanced Passenger Transport: With freight trains rerouted outside urban areas, passenger trains could operate more frequently and reliably within cities. This improvement in public transport could reduce reliance on cars, alleviate traffic congestion, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Economic Growth: Developing the space above rail lines and improving urban infrastructure could stimulate economic growth. New commercial and residential developments would attract businesses and residents, boosting local economies.

3. Safety Improvements: Addressing safety issues, particularly around the Van Horne Viaduct, could prevent injuries and fatalities, ensuring safer urban mobility for all.

4. Environmental Benefits: Reducing the number of freight trains within city limits would decrease noise pollution and lower emissions, contributing to a healthier urban environment.

The idea of merging CN and CP Railways represents a forward-thinking approach to urban transportation and development in Canada. By moving freight lines out of city centers and enhancing passenger transport infrastructure, particularly in Montreal, this concept promises to create a safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly urban transport system. Developing the rail lines and improving crossings, especially near the Van Horne Viaduct, highlights a commitment to safety and urban growth. This vision stands to transform Montreal's urban landscape, making it a model for modern, integrated city planning and transportation.

Recent Developments and Future Vision

Here is a recent development where the city installing a basketball court next to the tracks under the Van Horne Viaduc. This project exemplifies how urban spaces can be repurposed to benefit the community and integrate recreational facilities close to existing infrastructure .

Instead of spending 100 million to fix the Viaduct, tearing it down and using the concrete for the foundations of new affordable housing buildings could be a more efficient solution. This approach would not only address safety concerns but also contribute to solving the housing crisis. Here is a video from 2017 discussing the Van Horne Viaduct replacement .

Photo underneath the Viaduc Van horne

For a visual representation of what these developments could look like, consider this example from Miami, where similar urban redevelopment projects have been successfully implemented. I wouldn't suggest the height or raising the rail line but this should give you a good idea. Or explore the train on google maps.

There is a pool right next to the tracks.

By embracing these innovative ideas, Montreal can lead the way in urban transportation and development, creating a more sustainable and livable city for its residents

I encourage readers to build upon this idea, envisioning how the merger of CN and CP Railways and the subsequent urban developments could be tailored to benefit their communities. Your insights and suggestions can play a crucial role in refining and expanding this concept. Please share your thoughts and feedback, as collective brainstorming and collaboration are key to transforming this vision into a practical and impactful reality.