City officials in Montreal disclosed that engineering consultants hired by the municipality have advised the removal of the Rosemont‑Van Horne viaduct and the construction of an underground passage beneath the Canadian Pacific Railway line. The recommendation was released on Monday, September 14, 2026, and focuses on replacing the existing structure, which city engineers describe as deteriorated and outdated.
The Rosemont‑Van Horne viaduct, an elevated crossing that has served the area for decades, currently spans a busy Canadian Pacific Railway corridor. Over time, the structure has shown signs of wear that city planners consider significant enough to merit a full replacement rather than repair.
Engineers engaged by the City of Montreal evaluated the condition of the viaduct and concluded that demolition, followed by the creation of a tunnel beneath the rail line, would provide a more sustainable solution. Their report outlines the technical feasibility of building an underground route that would maintain rail operations while removing the aging overpass.
Canadian Pacific Railway, whose tracks lie directly beneath the viaduct, is a key stakeholder in the proposed project. The underground passage would be constructed beneath the existing rail line, allowing continued railway service throughout the demolition and construction phases.
The city is now reviewing the engineers’ recommendation as part of its broader effort to address aging infrastructure. Officials indicated that the proposal will be considered alongside other potential replacement options as the municipality plans its next steps for the site.