“The Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC), through their 16-stop consultation process, hope to gauge what ridership want in the newly refurbished Northlander set to hit the rails sometime in 2026 if all the components are on track. […] Following the announcement last spring that the provincial government would provide $75million to reinstate passenger rail, three sets of cars have been ordered and plans for rail construction is underway.”

“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.”

“In November 2021, Ontario named Timmins — one of the largest municipalities in Northern Ontario and a major employment hub — as the terminus station for the Northeastern Passenger Rail Service. The government has also identified a preferred route that includes a rail connection to Cochrane. To support the reinstated service, the government is making the necessary $75 million capital investment to support corridor, fleet and station upgrades. The release of an updated Initial Business Case brings Ontario one step closer to building a more connected transportation network that would support economic opportunities, the tourism industry and improve access to health care, education, as well as other critical services.”