The Ontario government is nearing completion of more than $100 million in rail infrastructure investments aimed at supporting the return of Northlander passenger rail service to northeastern Ontario later this year, marking a major milestone in the province’s efforts to strengthen transportation links and economic growth across the north.
According to the Ministry of Transportation, construction work along the Northlander corridor includes joint elimination, curve adjustments and upgrades at rail crossings designed to improve ride quality, enhance safety and reduce travel times. Once operational, the Northlander will operate along a 740-kilometre route between Toronto and Timmins, with a rail connection to Cochrane, serving a total of 16 stops across the province.
The project is positioned as a key component of Ontario’s broader strategy to protect and grow the provincial economy by improving connectivity between northern communities and southern markets, while supporting job creation and regional development.
“Our government is protecting Ontario by bringing back the Northlander and connecting thousands of people in northeastern Ontario to health care, education and economic opportunities,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “The rail work underway will help reduce travel times and deliver a smoother and more comfortable ride for passengers.”
Beyond track improvements, the province is continuing work to enhance safety across the network, including the installation of new warning systems, updated signage at rail crossings and the addition of gates at existing crossings. These measures are intended to improve safety for both passengers and communities along the corridor.
Local leaders say the return of passenger rail represents more than a transportation upgrade, pointing to broader economic and social impacts for northern Ontario.
“The return of the Northlander marks an important milestone in our government’s plan to deliver new economic opportunities and safe transportation to northern Ontario families,” said Vic Fedeli, Member of Provincial Parliament for Nipissing. “With work underway to enhance the rail corridor and modernize the North Bay Station, we are one step closer to restoring this Ontario staple and helping connect the people of this province.”
In parallel with corridor upgrades, the Ontario government has awarded a contract to renovate North Bay Station, which will serve the Northlander alongside Ontario Northland’s motor coach and Bus Parcel Express services. Construction is underway to modernize the station with new digital screens, seating and service counters, as well as washroom and lighting upgrades aimed at improving accessibility and passenger comfort.
Similar renovations are progressing at the Cochrane and Englehart stations, with construction expected to be completed in the spring. Work is also underway at the Timmins-Porcupine Station, as part of a broader effort to modernize station infrastructure across the network.
“Our government’s investment in track upgrades is delivering safer, smoother travel while building momentum toward the Northlander’s return,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Today’s announced improvements will make it easier and safer to move students, workers, and tourists across the north, and with construction well underway at the station in Timmins, our community is ready to welcome the Northlander back.”
The province has marked several recent milestones in preparation for the service launch, including the completion of the North Bay Rail Bypass, reconstruction of platforms and installation of shelters along the corridor, and the arrival of the first of three new Northlander trainsets.
Municipal leaders across northern and central Ontario have welcomed the investment, citing improved access to services, workforce mobility and economic opportunity.
“The Province of Ontario’s continued investment in rail infrastructure will have a measurable and lasting impact on our community. The Northlander’s return translates to a better connection to specialized healthcare, increased worker mobility, numerous economic benefits by way of tourism, and much more,” said Nancy Alcock, Mayor of Huntsville.
“Investment in rail infrastructure will drive Timmins’ economic engine forward – market reach will be expanded and supply chains strengthened. With the return of rail service, Timmins will be positioned as a true multi-modal transportation hub, connecting northern Ontario to opportunity and long-term growth,” said Michelle Boileau, Mayor of Timmins.
“North Bay looks forward to the return of the Northlander, which will help address long-standing transportation challenges and improve access to jobs, healthcare, and education for northern Ontario residents. Upgrades to the rail line and the modernization of the North Bay Station will strengthen the City’s role as a transportation hub, supporting future growth, tourism, and regional connections,” said Peter Chirico, Mayor of North Bay.
Additional support has come from communities including Cochrane, Englehart, Bracebridge, South River, Stouffville, Kirkland Lake and Black River-Matheson, as well as regional and industry organizations.
“Ontario Northland is pleased to share that rail infrastructure work supporting the Northlander service continues to progress. The enhancements to safety, comfort and overall travel time will directly benefit passengers using this service for years to come,” said Chad Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Northland.
“This government’s ongoing support of the Northlander has been unwavering. Sustained investment in rail infrastructure is turning momentum into service by modernizing the corridor, improving accessibility and safety, and reconnecting northern communities with reliable passenger rail,” said Alan Spacek, Chair of the Board, Ontario Northland.
Northern Ontario is home to more than 65,000 businesses and contributed over $55.5 billion to Ontario’s GDP in 2024. Provincial officials say the Northlander will strengthen Ontario’s integrated transportation network and advance work under the province’s Draft Transportation Plan for the North, as part of a $70 billion investment in transit — the largest expansion currently underway in North America.
