Three Montreal metro station entrances are closing for safety reasons—citing drug use and incivilities

The STM is indefinitely closing three Metro station entrances.

Citing safety concerns and a range of ongoing issues affecting certain areas of the network,  a report by the CBC states that the measure is intended to maintain a safer environment for both passengers and employees.

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What Montreal metro station entrances are being closed?

The entrances affected are:

The north entrance of De Castelnau station

The de Maisonneuve entrance at McGill station

The Belmont entrance at Square-Victoria-OACI station

Why is the STM closing metro station entrances?

According to the STM, the decision follows recurring issues in these locations, including cleanliness problems, loitering, disruptive behaviour and drug use. 

By restricting access points, the agency says it can concentrate cleaning and security efforts in smaller areas to improve oversight and operations.

The report also noted that a similar approach used last winter—when it temporarily reduced access and closed several entrances across the network—proved effective. 

It added that incidents of disruptive behaviour have tended to increase in March and April in recent years, framing the move as a preventive step to maintain control in the system.

The report goes on to detail that the decision comes as concerns about safety in the Metro continue to grow among staff and community organizations. Kevin Grenier, president of the union representing STM special constables, says a large majority of employees report feeling unsafe at work, adding that working conditions have become increasingly difficult and that both staff and passengers are facing greater risks.

Police data released earlier this year shows assaults in the Montreal metro rose by 15 per cent in 2025, with 726 incidents reported, up from 631 in 2024 and 652 in 2023.

City officials say the final decision rests with the STM. While the mayor had previously encouraged a more flexible approach during the winter months, the city maintains that the transit authority must now prioritize safety and security for both users and employees as conditions change with the season.

For more information about the CBC report, click here. 

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