Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada of Montreal and Mayor Catherine Fournier of Longueuil issued a joint appeal on Tuesday, urging the Quebec provincial election campaign to place municipal infrastructure at the forefront of its agenda. The two leaders stressed that immediate funding and concrete actions are essential to address the growing gaps in road, water and transit systems that both cities are confronting.
Both municipalities have reported expanding deficits in their infrastructure portfolios, a situation the mayors said could lead to escalating maintenance costs if left unchecked. They warned that without a shift in provincial priorities, the financial burden on local governments will continue to rise, potentially outpacing the ability of the cities to keep up with necessary repairs and upgrades.
The call comes as the province prepares for a provincial election, a timing the mayors view as an opportunity to influence policy direction. By highlighting the urgency of municipal infrastructure, they aim to secure stronger provincial commitments and resources that can bridge the funding shortfall currently experienced by Montreal and Longueuil.
In their statements, the mayors emphasized that infrastructure is a foundational element for economic stability, public safety and quality of life. They argued that sustained underinvestment not only jeopardizes existing assets but also hampers future growth and resilience against climate-related challenges.
The appeal reflects a broader trend among Quebec municipalities seeking more robust provincial involvement in infrastructure planning and financing. As both cities grapple with aging bridges, deteriorating water mains and congested transit corridors, the mayors’ message underscores the need for a coordinated approach that aligns municipal needs with provincial policy and budgetary decisions.
The mayors concluded by urging provincial leaders to integrate infrastructure funding into their campaign platforms, positioning it as a critical priority for the province’s upcoming election and for the long‑term wellbeing of Montreal, Longueuil and their residents.