I was in Ste-Scolastique last week, following CPR's Lachute Sub, but I took note of what WAS CNR lines. Driving on the south side of Mirabel, I had seen the original Montford Sub r-o-w, then I seen the newer one which was recently abandoned. Upon my stop at the yard/junction in Ste-Scolastique, I followed the CNR line to the east a bit and went into the yard for some inspections. I do have questions though. First off is when did CNR reroute their Montford Sub and why? Second also deals with the original line. Was there a junction with CPR previously before one was made at Ste-Scolastique? Thanks all.
I don't think there are many members here familiar with the Quebec area. But I have a couple of friends who might be familiar with this location. I will print out your question and ask them, but it will take about a week.
Ah...that would be a reason why most of my Quebec questions have gone unanswered. Ok, I'll wait and I thank you for going out of the way like that. According to the Canadian Encyclopedia, the city of Mirabel was created in 1969 due to the merging of other towns and the creation of the airport. The reroute had to be around that time.
Your first question: "when did CNR reroute their Montford Sub and Why?" This is the only answer I could get for you. The reason for the relocation of the CN line was for the Mirabel Airport. But, I don't know when it was done. This is info from a CN employee who lived out east for a while and now works in the Thornton Service Yard in Coquitlam (Vancouver) BC. I'm assuming the relocation was to make the rails more convenient for air port access.
I live south shore of Montreal. I don't know the answer, but I can try to pass it to a friend of mine who work for CN. Yvan-Martin