The city of Mercier has formally submitted a petition to the Quebec government on Saturday, June 27, 2026, urging provincial officials to intervene in the long‑standing traffic gridlock that plagues Route 138 on Montreal’s South Shore. The request comes from municipal leaders who say the congestion has become a daily obstacle for commuters and local businesses.
Mercier’s municipal administration outlined the petition as a direct appeal for resources, planning support, and infrastructure improvements that could relieve the chronic slowdown. The document was presented to the provincial transport ministry as part of the city’s broader effort to secure a coordinated response. Municipal officials emphasized that the petition reflects a collective demand from residents who have repeatedly voiced concerns about the road’s capacity during peak hours.
Residents of the South Shore community have endured heavy traffic on Route 138 for years, describing the rush‑hour jams as a source of frustration and lost productivity. The thoroughfare, which serves as a main artery linking Mercier to surrounding neighborhoods and downtown Montreal, regularly experiences delays that extend travel times well beyond normal expectations. Local commuters have reported that the congestion persists despite minor adjustments to traffic signals and occasional roadwork.
Provincial authorities have been asked to review the petition and consider long‑term solutions, such as expanding lane capacity, improving public transit alternatives, or implementing traffic‑management technologies. The city of Mercier indicated that it will continue to monitor the situation and remain in dialogue with the Quebec government until measurable progress is achieved. The petition marks a renewed push by South Shore municipalities to address a problem that has affected the region’s mobility for an extended period.