As summer arrives, cities and towns across the West Island are starting their annual road repair and rebuilding projects. However, finding the funds to pay for these projects has become a challenge. The agreement between the federal and Quebec governments to transfer funds from gasoline sales tax to local municipalities for infrastructure work has expired and not been renewed. This has left smaller municipalities without the necessary funds for infrastructure projects, at least until 2024 or 2025.
Despite this lack of federal transfers, some cities like Dorval are able to absorb the financial hit, but it does impact their ability to pay for infrastructure projects. Additionally, municipalities are now responsible for the resurfacing of service roads, a job that used to be paid for by Transports Québec. Kirkland Mayor Michel Gibson describes municipalities as being the “scapegoat,” being handed the responsibility to fund these projects.
In Kirkland, the city has been investing in road maintenance for years, leading to minimal work needed this year. This has earned the town bragging rights for having some of the best roads on the island, in comparison to Montreal. Similarly, the borough of Pierrefonds-Roxboro plans to spend millions of dollars on road work this year, with the advantage of tapping into Montreal’s resources for major projects. This coordination allows for more efficient and cost-effective infrastructure work within the region.
As drivers head out to their summer destinations, they are warned to expect detours and delays due to the road construction projects. Despite the challenges faced by municipalities in funding these projects, they are working hard to ensure that roads are rebuilt and repaired for smoother journeys in the future. With ongoing collaboration with Montreal’s resources, the West Island is making progress in maintaining and improving its road infrastructure for the benefit of residents and visitors alike.
