By Rosalind Russell – The chairman of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission says the Northlander is on track for its return in 2026.
Al Spacek provided an update on the progress that’s being made to date including the train sets, adding the commission was able to tag onto an order from Via Rail or there may have been longer timelines.
He says there are several stops to make sure the tracks are in top shape adding engineering and geo-technical work continues at the new terminus in Porcupine.
Once it’s complete, they hope to release drawings on the terminal to the public for input.
The passenger rail service will provide service from Toronto to Timmins with a rail connection to Cochrane.
The route identifies 16 stops including Toronto (Union Station), Langstaff, Gormley, Washago, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, South River, North Bay, Temagami, Temiskaming Shores, Englehart, Kirkland Lake (Swastika), Matheson, Timmins, and Cochrane.
Photo: The objective to get the Northlander Train running through the North took another step forward this month with the ordering of train sets for the line. If all goes well, the rail line with 16 stops could be inaugurated by next year. Photo provided ONTC