News

$5.7 Million Investment to Construct New Track for the Northlander

NORTH BAY – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing, announced that the Ontario government has completed the North Bay Rail Bypass, marking a major milestone in the province’s plan to bring back Northlander passenger rail service to Northern Ontario. The Ontario government has invested $5.7 million in the North Bay Rail Bypass. This 982-metre track will improve travel times by 15 minutes to North Bay Station, giving passengers more time with their families and friends while supporting tourism, jobs, and economic growth in northern Ontario.

“The completion of the North Bay bypass marks an important milestone in our government’s revitalization and restoration of the Northlander, and delivers on a promise to connect Nipissing families, workers, and industries with economic opportunities across the province,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “We look forward to seeing the Northlander back in action, delivering the efficient, convenient, and affordable transportation that the Northern Ontario residents deserve.”

The Bypass track connects the CN Newmarket subdivision to the ONTC mainline track on the Temagami Subdivision. It will also ensure that Northlander passenger trains avoid the busy North Bay Rail Yard, improving safety and operational efficiency by keeping them clear of active freight operations between CN, Ottawa Valley Railway, and Ontario Northland. The province’s record investments in infrastructure, including the Northlander, are helping to keep workers on the job in the face of tariffs and economic uncertainty.

The Northlander will connect Toronto to Timmins with a rail connection to Cochrane, including a total of 16 stops along the way. It will support northern industries and the resource sector, improving access to good-paying jobs and essential services, including healthcare and education.

QUICK FACTS

• In July 2025, the province announced the award of a contract to build Timmins-Porcupine Station, which will serve Northlander trains, as well as Ontario Northland’s motor coaches and Bus Parcel Express services.
• In June 2025, the province awarded a contract to EllisDon to reconstruct platforms and install pre-manufactured shelters at train stops along the Northlander corridor from South River to Washago.
• In December 2024, the province announced the award of a contract to reconstruct platforms and install pre-manufactured shelters at train stops along the future Northlander corridor from North Bay to Cochrane.
• In May 2024, the province announced the award of three contracts to design and manufacture nine new Northlander station shelters, enhance rail safety, and complete warning system upgrades.