On September 6, 2026, residents of Saint-Lambert, Quebec, organized a petition aimed at preventing the closure of their local Via Rail station. The effort, spearheaded by a citizen petitioner, seeks a formal request to Via Rail to maintain service at the historic stop.
The petition highlights community concerns that the station provides essential commuter access and supports local businesses. Signatories argue that eliminating the Saint-Lambert stop would disrupt daily travel for a significant number of riders who rely on the rail link for work, education, and regional connectivity.
Via Rail is currently reviewing a proposal to construct a new station at the Longueuil airport. The airline‑adjacent location is being considered as part of a broader strategy to expand service options in the Greater Montreal area. The evaluation of this proposal has triggered opposition from Saint‑Lambert residents who fear the new airport station could render the existing Saint‑Lambert facility redundant, leading to its eventual shutdown.
The community’s opposition centers on the potential loss of a convenient, centrally located rail hub. Residents contend that the Saint‑Lambert station not only serves local commuters but also contributes to the neighbourhood’s character and accessibility. The petition urges Via Rail to weigh these community impacts against the benefits of a new airport station before making a final decision.
As the petition circulates, Via Rail officials have not yet issued a public response. The outcome of the agency’s assessment will determine whether the Saint‑Lambert station remains operational or is replaced by the proposed Longueuil airport facility.