Long Read

quebec city's future is weird and wonderful: what's really coming down the pipeline

@Marcus Thorne2/8/2026blog
quebec city's future is weird and wonderful: what's really coming down the pipeline

so i was walking through vieux-québec last week and nearly tripped over a construction sign for the new tramway project. yeah, that's right-quebec city is finally getting a modern tram system after decades of "maybe someday." and honestly? it feels like the city's finally waking up from a long winter nap.

here's what's actually happening:

- the qc tramway (cdpq project) is a $8.1 billion investment stretching from beauport to saint-romuald. that's like, 67 km of track and 29 stations. first phase opens 2028.
- the new "quartier des retraités" (retirement district) near saint-roch is getting a complete overhaul with mixed-use buildings and green spaces.
- they're expanding the port of quebec to handle more cruise ships-which, let's be real, is great for the economy but might clog up the old town even more.

and before you ask-yes, i checked the numbers. average rent in qc is still around $950 for a one-bedroom, which is criminally low compared to montreal's $1,400. but with all these new projects, that's probably gonna creep up.

an aerial view of a large building with a clock tower

few cars on road near concrete buildings viewing sea


overheard at a café in saint-jean: "they're turning the old paper mill into lofts, but the parking situation is gonna be a nightmare." classic quebec city-always thinking about the past while trying to build the future.

if you're into data (and who isn't?), here's a quick table of what's cooking:

ProjectCost (CAD)CompletionImpact
QC Tramway$8.1B2028Major transit upgrade
Port Expansion$400M2026More cruise traffic
Saint-Roch Revamp$150M2025Housing & green space


and let's not forget the weather. right now it's that weird in-between where it's not quite spring but the snow's melting into slush. perfect for ruining your favorite boots. but hey, montreal and ottawa are just a quick train ride away if you need a change of scene.

i asked a local barista (who looked like they'd rather be anywhere else) what they thought about all these changes. they shrugged and said, "it's about time, but i hope they don't turn qc into another generic north american city." fair point.

if you're planning to move here or just curious, check out these links:
- Quebec City's Official Tramway Site
- Reddit r/QuebecCity for real-time gossip
- TripAdvisor's QC Forum for tourist traps and hidden gems
- Yelp Quebec City for the best poutine spots (because priorities)

the future of quebec city is messy, expensive, and probably a little chaotic-but isn't that what makes it interesting?


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About the author: Marcus Thorne

Sharing knowledge so you don't have to learn the hard way.

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