TORONTO — The Ontario government is marking a significant milestone in its plan to restore passenger rail service between Northern Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area, with the arrival of the first of three new Northlander trainsets in the province.
Announced on Jan. 8 by the Premier’s Office, the arrival signals tangible progress toward the long-anticipated return of the Northlander, a passenger rail service that will span 740 kilometres with 16 stops between Timmins and Toronto, including a connection to Cochrane. The project forms part of the province’s broader strategy to strengthen Ontario’s economy by improving regional connectivity, supporting northern industries and creating good-paying jobs.
“Today is a great day for the people of Northern Ontario as we move another step closer to bringing the Northlander back into service, so families and workers can travel conveniently from Union Station all the way to Timmins and Cochrane,” said Doug Ford. “Our government will continue to invest in the largest public transit expansion in Canadian history as part of our plan to create jobs, tackle gridlock and protect workers and businesses.”
The trainset, manufactured by Siemens, is currently undergoing testing and commissioning in Toronto. Once that phase is complete, it will be moved north, where Ontario Northland will conduct further testing along the Northlander corridor to ensure all systems meet required safety, performance and operational standards. The province expects the Northlander to return to service in 2026.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the project reflects a long-term infrastructure commitment. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is delivering on its promise to bring back the Northlander,” he said. “The Northlander is a key part of our $100 billion plan to build transit and highways so we can protect Ontario and connect families to good jobs, housing and the services they rely on.”
Preparatory work along the corridor has accelerated over the past year. In 2025, the province began construction of the Timmins-Porcupine Station, awarded contracts to reconstruct platforms and install shelters at multiple stops, and completed the North Bay Rail Bypass — a project expected to reduce travel times by approximately 15 minutes.
Once operational, the Northlander will provide passenger rail service linking Toronto, North Bay, Timmins and Cochrane. Provincial officials say the service will support northern industries and the resource sector while improving access to essential services such as health care and education, as well as employment opportunities.
Northern Ontario plays a substantial role in the provincial economy, home to more than 65,000 local businesses and contributing over $55.5 billion to Ontario’s GDP in 2024. Each new Northlander trainset consists of one locomotive and three passenger cars, offering 169 seats with features designed for comfort and accessibility, including wide aisles, accessible washrooms, Wi-Fi, charging ports and LED lighting.
Local and regional leaders welcomed the trainset’s arrival as a long-awaited step forward.
“The Northlander is an integral part of our government’s plan to equip northern communities, like Nipissing, with the safe, convenient and reliable transportation they deserve. The arrival of the first new trainset marks a significant and exciting milestone in this restoration process and will play a key role in ensuring Northern Ontario’s economy can be positioned for growth, resilience and prosperity for generations to come,” said Vic Fedeli.
Timmins MPP George Pirie described the return of the service as a catalyst for long-term growth. “Thanks to our government, Timmins is one step closer to proudly being the final destination of the Northlander. More than a train service, the return of the Northlander is an investment in the future of the north and a catalyst for long-term economic growth in Northern Ontario. By reconnecting our region with safe, reliable rail service, we’re creating new opportunities for tourism, business investment and good-paying jobs.”
Support also came from central Ontario and provincial advocacy organizations. Graydon Smith emphasized affordability and regional access, while Jill Dunlop highlighted Simcoe North’s role as a key link in the corridor.
Industry and municipal associations echoed that sentiment. “The arrival of the first new Northlander trainset is a significant milestone for communities across Northern Ontario that have long called for the return of reliable passenger rail,” said Rick Dumas, president of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association.
Business groups also pointed to the broader economic implications. “As a leading advocate for critical infrastructure, the Ontario Chamber welcomes this important step toward restoring the Northlander. Better connecting northern and southern Ontario will support industry, grow tourism and help build a more competitive and prosperous province,” said Julie Martini.
Ontario Northland CEO Chad Evans called the arrival of the first trainset “a major milestone,” while board chair Alan Spacek said the service will “fundamentally shift how people move across the province.”
With testing underway and infrastructure upgrades progressing, the province says the return of the Northlander is moving from promise to reality, positioning passenger rail as a key component of Northern Ontario’s economic and transportation future.
