Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government has awarded EllisDon the contract to renovate North Bay Station as part of preparations for the return of the Northlander train service. The station will also continue to serve Ontario Northland’s motor coach and Bus Parcel Express services.
Construction is already underway to modernize the station with new digital screens, seating, service counters, washroom upgrades, and improved lighting to enhance accessibility and passenger comfort. Similar renovations are taking place at Cochrane and Englehart stations, with work expected to be completed in the spring.
“The return of the Northlander marks an important milestone in our government’s plan to deliver new economic opportunities and safe transportation to northern Ontario families,” said Vic Fedeli, Member of Provincial Parliament for Nipissing. “With work underway to enhance the rail corridor and modernize the North Bay Station, we are one step closer to restoring this Ontario staple and helping connect the people of this province.”
The Ontario government is investing more than $100 million in rail infrastructure to support the return of the Northlander passenger service to northeastern Ontario.
The 740-kilometre route between Toronto and Timmins, with a connection to Cochrane, will have 16 stops. Work along the corridor includes joint elimination, curve adjustments and improvements at rail crossings aimed at enhancing safety, comfort and travel times.
Additional safety upgrades include new warning systems, updated signage and gates at existing crossings.
“Our government’s investment in track upgrades is delivering safer, smoother travel while building momentum toward the Northlander’s return,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “These improvements will make it easier and safer to move students, workers, and tourists across the north, and with construction well underway at the station in Timmins, our community is ready to welcome the Northlander back.”
Several milestones have already been reached, including the completion of the North Bay Rail Bypass, the start of construction at Timmins-Porcupine Station, platform reconstructions and shelter installations along the corridor, and the arrival of the first of three new Northlander trainsets.
In early January, Ontario took possession of the first of three Northlander trains it expects to have on track this year. Testing is underway, but no date has been released for test runs Toronto to Timmins.
“The train set is currently undergoing testing and commissioning work in Toronto before moving north, where Ontario Northland will begin testing the train along the Northlander corridor to ensure all systems function correctly and meet safety, performance and operating requirements. The Northlander is expected to return to service in 2026,” officials said in a news release.
