Les Résidences Soleil and the STM Bring Our Residents Together to Tell 60 Years of Memories of the Montreal Metro
To mark the 60th anniversary of the Montreal Metro, Les Résidences Soleil – Famille Savoie had the pleasure of collaborating with la Société de transport de Montréal (STM) on a video featuring the memories of seniors who have witnessed the Metro evolve over the decades.
An STM team visited Les Résidences Soleil Manoir Plaza, in downtown Montreal, to hear our residents’ anecdotes, memories and perspectives on how the Metro has changed over the years.
60 Years of History Told by Our Residents
For some, those memories go all the way back to the Metro’s earliest days. In 1966, one of our residents was 19 years old, while another remembers being 30 when she first experienced the Metro.
“I went to the World’s Fair very, very, very often,” one resident recalls, thinking back to Expo 67 and the many trips he made by Metro.
At the time, the speed of the new system was particularly impressive:
“How could it take so little time for a trip that would normally have taken us half an hour by bus?”
Montreal’s Metro also stood out because of its unique design. Comparing Montreal’s system with New York’s, one resident explains:
“The subway is incredibly noisy. But ours runs on rubber tires.”
Over the years, the Metro has also become a true link to Montreal’s culture and neighbourhoods. The artwork found throughout the stations, trips to Place des Arts, the CHUM, Jean-Drapeau and outings with friends are all part of the memories shared in the video.
“You can get almost anywhere in the city by Metro,” one resident sums up. “You can cross the whole city underground. That’s almost priceless.”
Direct Metro Access That Is Part of Everyday Life
Even today, the Metro continues to play an important role in our residents’ lives. One resident says he takes it “two or three times a day,” including to run errands for people who are unable to get around themselves.
At Manoir Plaza, this proximity takes on a whole new meaning: Manoir Plaza is the only senior residence in North America to offer direct access to the Montreal Metro.
This private and secure access, reserved exclusively for residents and employees, provides direct entry to the Metro system without having to step outside the residence.
As one of our residents explains:
“Here, in the building, we have direct access to the Metro. In winter, we don’t have to go outside.”
This unique feature also makes it easier to reach several downtown destinations:
“By Metro, if I’m going to Place des Arts, I don’t need to go outside. If I’m going to the CHUM, I don’t need to go outside. It’s extraordinary.”
And for those who enjoy shopping, the Metro is quite literally just steps away:
“There are just as many stores downstairs as there are upstairs. I’m a shopping girl, you know. I love shopping.”
A Collaboration That Shines a Spotlight on Our Residents’ Memories
Through their stories, our three residents take us on a journey through 60 years of Montreal Metro history, from its inauguration to the trips that remain part of their everyday lives today.
Their participation in this video produced by the STM is a wonderful opportunity to highlight their experiences, their stories and their connection to the Montreal community.
And to celebrate the anniversary in their own way, one final, simple wish was shared:
“I wish the Metro a happy birthday.”
Thank you to the STM for this wonderful collaboration, and to our three participating residents for so generously sharing their memories!
To discover some of the most memorable moments from the Montreal Metro’s 60-year history, visit the STM’s official page:
60 Years of the Metro – Memorable Moments
Discover Les Résidences Soleil Manoir Plaza, a senior residence located in Montreal that offers an exceptional feature: direct and secure access to the Montreal Metro, reserved exclusively for residents and employees of the residence.
Feel free to book an appointment with one of our housing advisors, available 7 days a week, and see for yourself just how enjoyable life at Les Résidences Soleil can be!
Our unique financial programs, created by the Famille Savoie and combined with the many government subsidies you may be eligible for, help ensure that you have the financial means to live with us comfortably for many wonderful years to come.
