The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) has started a pilot program in September 2026 that uses artificial intelligence to identify individuals loitering in its subway stations. The initial trial is being run at two stations, with plans to extend the technology to three additional locations later this year.
The AI system is designed to scan surveillance footage and flag people who remain in stations without a clear purpose, a pattern often associated with unhoused individuals. By automating the detection process, the STM aims to locate loiterers more quickly than with manual monitoring alone.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the transit authority to improve safety and address the visible presence of homelessness within the underground network. Station staff will receive alerts generated by the AI, allowing them to respond promptly, whether by offering assistance, directing individuals to services, or addressing security concerns.
The pilot reflects the STM's ongoing strategy to combine technology with existing social and security measures. While the AI component focuses on rapid identification, the agency continues to coordinate with municipal and community partners to provide support to those affected. The expansion to three more stations will follow an evaluation of the system's performance at the initial sites, including its accuracy and impact on station operations.
The STM has not disclosed the specific vendor or technical details of the AI platform, citing the early stage of the trial. Officials indicated that the program will be monitored closely to ensure it aligns with privacy regulations and the agency's public safety objectives. The pilot represents a measured step toward integrating advanced surveillance tools into Montreal's public transit infrastructure.