REM Project

Quebec, Canada

TBM EPB + Conventional

Construction method

3,600 m

Excavated length

6.45m / 7.37m

Internal diameter / Excavation

1 TBM

TBM number

70 m

Depth coverage

The Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM) is an ambitious light rail system designed to transform mobility across the Greater Montreal area. The project comprises a 41.63-mile double-track network, with 26 stations distributed across four branches, and represents one of the largest public transport developments ever undertaken in Canada.

Within this framework, DRAGADOS has participated in the construction of a 2.24-mile tunnel excavated using a tunnel boring machine, connecting downtown Montreal with the airport. Excavation was carried out using a 24.18 ft diameter EPB TBM, initially through water-bearing soils, mainly silty sands, followed by mixed-face conditions transitioning into hard massive rock. In its final section, the tunnel passes beneath one of Montreal Airport’s runways, requiring rigorous geotechnical and operational control.

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The project also included the excavation of Édouard-Montpetit Station, which connects the existing Mont Royal double-track tunnel,located at a depth of 229.66 ft, with the surface-level station at that location. This work was executed using the sequential excavation method with drill and blast, supported by a light permanent support system consisting of CT-type permanent rock bolts and two layers of steelfiber–reinforcedshotcrete, separated by a sprayed waterproofing membrane.

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The rehabilitation and enlargement of the Mont Royal Tunnel, an existing structure 3.11 miles long and more than 100 years old, also formed part of the project scope. A highly accurate tunnel scan was required to determine the most suitable solution for each section, minimizing excavation volumes while ensuring the correct installation of support and lining systems.

For these works, DRAGADOS deployed an in-house-developed automated system capable of scanning the tunnel surface, comparing measured data with the design model almost in real time, and projecting onto the tunnel walls the areas to be removed or enlarged. This technology enabled the works to be carried out safely, efficiently, and with a high level of precision.

Project data

Length:2.24 miles of TBM tunnel, rehabilitation of 3.11-mile tunnel and SEM station.

TBM diameter: 24.18 ft.

Completion year: 2024.

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