Unveiling New Names for Metro Stations Along Montreal's Blue Line

The Societé de transport de Montréal (STM) is set to add five new stations to the Montreal Metro's Blue line, marking a significant departure from the usual geographic naming convention. These stations, set to open in 2031, will honour individuals and events that have made significant contributions to various communities in the city.

The Blue line extension will span nearly six kilometres from its current terminal in Saint-Michel, reaching the Anjou borough. Among the new stations, Vertières Station will be at the intersection of Jean-Talon Street East and Pie-IX Boulevard. The name Vertières commemorates the 1803 battle that led to Haiti's independence and is a nod to Saint-Michel's vibrant Haitian community.

Another station, Anjou Station, will serve as the new terminus of the Blue line and will be located at the intersection of Highways 25 and 40. The name is reminiscent of the province of Anjou in France, "where many of Montreal's founders originated." This station is unique as it is the only one from the extension named after the borough it's in, making it easier for users to find their way around.

The station named after Mary Two-Axe-Earley, an Indigenous women's rights activist from the Montreal-area Mohawk community of Kahnawake, will be located at the intersection of Jean-Talon Street East and Viau Boulevard. However, the background of Mary Two-Axe-Earley and the station named after Madeleine Parent, a union leader and pioneer of Quebec's feminist movement, are not provided.

Césira Parisotto, also known as Mother Anselme, is named after a station at the intersection of Jean-Talon Street East and Lacordaire Boulevard in Saint-Leonard. Césira Parisotto was a prominent figure in Quebec's Italian community who founded several institutions, including schools and the Marie-Clarac Hospital.

In 2020, the STM's committee for the Blue line extension held public consultations and recommended that the station names highlight the contributions of ethnocultural communities, Indigenous peoples, and women. This decision reflects the city's commitment to recognising and celebrating the diverse voices that have shaped Montreal.

Work on the $5 million project began last May and is set to open in 2031, marking the first time the STM is naming stations after people and events rather than geographic points. These new stations will undoubtedly become significant landmarks in Montreal, symbolising the city's rich cultural heritage and commitment to social justice.