Cartier station (Montreal Metro) is a station on the Orange Line of the Montreal Metro system. Located in the city of Laval, Quebec, Canada, it is one of the three stations that extended the Montreal Metro into the city of Laval, serving as a vital transportation hub for the region.
History The station opened on April 28, 2007, as part of the Laval extension of the Orange Line, which also included the stations De la Concorde and Montmorency. This extension marked the first time the Montreal Metro ventured outside the island of Montreal, significantly expanding public transit options for residents of Laval and the North Shore. The construction of the station involved tunneling under the Rivière des Prairies and integrating it into the urban fabric of Laval.
Location and Access Cartier station is situated in the Pont-Viau district of Laval, at the intersection of Boulevard Cartier Ouest and Boulevard des Laurentides, close to Autoroute 15. Its strategic location provides access to various residential areas, commercial establishments, and municipal services. The station is a major transfer point for the Société de transport de Laval (STL) bus network, offering numerous connections to different parts of Laval. It also features a large park-and-ride facility, accommodating commuters who drive to the station and transfer to the metro.
Architecture and Art Designed as a modern underground station, Cartier features two side platforms. Like many Montreal Metro stations, it incorporates public art into its design. A prominent feature is the large mural titled "Le Quai de débarquement" (The Landing Dock) by artist Félix Girard. This artwork, visible from the platforms, adds to the station's aesthetic appeal and reflects its role as a gateway. The station's architecture emphasizes functionality and passenger flow, with clear signage and accessible pathways.
Services and Facilities As a relatively new station, Cartier was built with accessibility in mind. It is equipped with elevators, making it fully accessible to people with reduced mobility. The station has multiple entrances to facilitate easy access from surrounding areas. Services include ticket vending machines, information displays, and customer service kiosks. Its integration with the STL bus terminal ensures seamless transfers for passengers using both metro and bus services, enhancing regional connectivity.