Projects / Rapibus
Designed by STGM Architecture, the Rapibus transforms a former rail corridor into a sustainable, city-shaping transit system in Gatineau.
A territorial vision focused on sustainable mobility
Following a comprehensive urban planning initiative based on growth projections, suburban expansion, and increasing traffic volumes, the City of Gatineau set out to rethink mobility through a sustainable lens. In this context, the Société de transport de l’Outaouais (STO) developed the Rapibus, a bus rapid transit (BRT) system designed to improve mobility and accessibility across the city. This high-frequency public transit service operates on more than 12 kilometers of dedicated bus-only lanes.
The Rapibus as a structuring axis of urban development
Since its launch in October 2013, the Rapibus has become a key driver of urban development in Gatineau. By transforming a former railway corridor into a major public transit axis, the project reshaped the region’s mobility landscape. Integrated with the local bus network, the Rapibus enables fast, reliable travel across the city and direct access to downtown Ottawa — free from traffic congestion. To serve the community efficiently, nine stations were strategically located and designed by STGM Architecture.
An architecture designed for comfort, safety, and the network’s identity
From the outset, the design team placed comfort and safety at the core of the project. Expansive glass surfaces and open, visible spaces foster a sense of transparency and reassurance, following the principle of “seeing and being seen.” A cohesive architectural language was developed for all stations, ensuring both visual harmony and strong identity within the urban fabric. The architectural concept draws inspiration from the natural character of the Outaouais region — its hills, forests, and waterways — translated through refined, durable materials.
Stations adapted to usage patterns and traffic intensity
The network features three types of stations. Six basic stations consist of open pavilions serving each direction. Three mid-size stations — including De la Gappe — act as key transfer points within the local bus network and include additional facilities for drivers. The De la Cité station serves as the heart of the system, housing ticketing services, public areas, operational spaces, and a pedestrian bridge crossing the Rapibus corridor. Its scale reflects high ridership levels and its proximity to major social, cultural, and educational hubs.