Northlander passenger service moves closer after Ontario track deal

Northlander passenger service is moving closer to restoration in Ontario. As reported by Rail Journal, Ontario bought the 205km section from Washago to North Bay. Canadian National was the seller. The line is part of the 740km railway linking Toronto with Timmins and Cochrane. The deal is valued at C$138m (US$100.7m).

Northlander passenger service and the CN track acquisition

The purchase is a key part of the province’s plan to restore the Northlander passenger service. Also, it is expected to benefit freight traffic. At the same time, it would remove the need to switch operation between CN and Ontario Northland.

Meanwhile, rolling stock work is also moving ahead. As Ontario Northland notes, the first of three Siemens Venture diesel-electric trains arrived in January. It is for testing and commissioning. In addition, the other two sets are due later this year. Each train comprises a power car and three coaches.

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Infrastructure improvements on the Washago – North Bay section

Ontario Newsroom said in January that C$100m in infrastructure improvements were nearing completion. For example, the work includes rail welding, curve adjustments and level crossing upgrades. Also, the upgrades are intended to improve ride quality. In addition, they are meant to reduce journey times and improve safety.

Separately, a 1km bypass of the busy North Bay yard was completed in September 2025. It cost C$5.7m. Still, it is expected to reduce the journey time by 15 minutes.

Station upgrades and Northlander service plans

Last month, Ontario Northland awarded a contract to renovate North Bay station. At the same time, work to modernise the Cochrane and Englehart stations is already underway. It is expected to be completed shortly. Meanwhile, a new station is under construction at Timmins-Porcupine.

No date has yet been announced for the introduction of the new service. Still, it is expected to run overnight between Toronto and Timmins. Depending on the season, it would run on four to seven days per week. Also, there is expected to be a connecting service to Cochrane.

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