$109 Million to Refurbish 56 Rail Coaches
April 8, 2022GO Transit bi-level railcar deal supports manufacturing jobs and economic growth in the North
NORTH BAY – Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli has announced that Metrolinx and the Ontario Northland have signed a contract valued at nearly $109 million to refurbish 56 GO Transit bi-level rail coaches at Ontario Northland’s Remanufacturing and Repair Centre in North Bay. This new agreement will support jobs and economic growth in Northern Ontario and across the supply chain.
“Today’s investment is an important advancement in our government’s plan to strengthen economic growth and opportunities in the North,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade and MPP for Nipissing. “This is part of our plan to build a stronger, more resilient manufacturing sector in Northern Ontario that will provide the conditions for economic growth and continue to support high quality, good-paying jobs.”
“This contract will provide job stability for our employees while contributing to economic growth in Northern Ontario,” said Corina Moore, President and CEO of Ontario Northland. “Our continued partnership with Metrolinx, specifically for refurbishment projects, confirms our exceptional skillset and reputation for high quality remanufacturing services right here in North Bay. We are proud of the impact of this contract to the region as it will create long-term jobs as well as drive business to over 30 local suppliers.” – Corina Moore, President and CEO of Ontario Northland
“This vehicle refurbishment agreement is an important step in supporting the growth of our future rail capacity. We’re proud to make this progress, working with Ontario Northland and the communities of Northern Ontario to signal growth and opportunity in the area for transit to flourish.” – Phil Verster, President and Chief Executive Officer of Metrolinx
“This deal is great for the GO rail network and great for North Bay workers,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “Under Premier Ford’s vision for transit expansion, we are driving economic growth and prosperity in all corners of our province, ensuring Ontario continues to be the best place to live, work and raise a family.
“Congratulations to the Ontario government on today’s announcement. This contract will support high-quality, good-paying jobs in North Bay and help to create the right conditions for economic growth in the North,” said Mayor Al McDonald.
The refurbishment of the 56 bi-level coaches is expected to start later next month, with the completion scheduled for fall 2025. The coach cars will receive a complete overhaul that includes stripping the entire coach, structural work, and renewing or upgrading parts including new seating, washroom upgrades, electrical components as well as HVAC and door system upgrades.
Quick facts
- The $109.57 million investment for the refurbishment of 56 GO bi-level passenger rail coaches is in addition to the existing contract for the refurbishment of 15 cab cars that was signed between Metrolinx and the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission in 2019.
- The refurbishment work for the new contract will start on May 30, 2022, and is anticipated to be complete by late September 2025.