Ontario Taking Next Steps to Bring Back Northeastern Passenger Rail
December 15, 2022Province investing in new rail cars as part of its plan to connect communities and unlock economic opportunities in the north
NORTH BAY – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced that the Ontario government is purchasing three new trainsets as part of its plan to bring back northeastern passenger rail service. The $139.5 million investment marks a significant milestone in reinstating service between Timmins and Toronto, and unlocking the full economic potential of northern industries, resources and minerals.
“As part of our plan to build Ontario, our government is proud to be making this investment to help bring the Northlander back to the North,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “Passenger rail supports families, tourism, manufacturing jobs, innovation and economic growth, all while keeping the people of Ontario connected. As the long-time voice for this vital service, it’s an absolute pleasure be part of a government that is bringing passenger rail back to Northern Ontario, once and for all.”
Northlander
“This is a significant step forward in bringing back the rail service that northerners deserve,” said Stan Cho, Associate Minister of Transportation. “The reinstated Northlander train will support our northern industries and resource sectors and provide a safe and reliable transportation option for Northern communities, especially in the winter months. This purchase demonstrates real progress, as we continue to take concrete steps to build a better transportation network for the north.”
The new rail cars will be built by Siemens Mobility Limited and will meet the latest EPA Tier 4 emission standards, making them one of the most environmentally friendly diesel locomotives on the market. The fully accessible fleet will include built-in wheelchair lifts, mobility aid storage spaces, galley style food services and fully accessible washrooms.
The trainset interiors will also feature spacious seating and modern amenities, including Wi-Fi connectivity and passenger information systems with audio and visual announcements.
Once reinstated, northeastern passenger rail service will be offered from four to seven days a week, based on seasonal travel demands.
Quick Facts
- Ontario Northland Transportation Commission’s Northlander Passenger Train discontinued service in 2012.
- Ontario Northland currently operates four buses daily between Toronto and North Bay, and one to two buses daily from North Bay to Timmins and Cochrane.
- In April 2022 Ontario Northland Transportation Commission released the Updated Initial Business Case which included a preferred route from Toronto to Timmins with a rail connection to Cochrane.
- Cochrane will provide a connection to Polar Bear Express service to Moosonee.
- By 2041, annual ridership is currently estimated to be between approximately 40,000 and 60,000.
- Detailed design will focus on the route that includes 16 stops: Toronto (Union Station), Langstaff, Gormley, Washago, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, South River, North Bay, Temagami, Temiskaming Shores, Englehart, Kirkland Lake (Swastika), Matheson, Timmins and Cochrane.
- The new locomotives will meet EPA Tier 4 emissions standards and are equipped with particle filters reducing 95% of particles and 89% of Nitrogen Oxide emissions.
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