The Ontario government is marking a major milestone in its commitment to bring back the Northlander with the arrival of the first of three new Northlander train sets in Ontario.
The Northlander will span 740 kilometres between Timmins and Toronto, with a connection to Cochrane, and is part of the government’s work to protect Ontario’s economy by connecting northern communities, creating good-paying jobs, supporting local industries and driving economic growth across the north.
“Today is a great day for the people of Northern Ontario as we move another step closer to bringing the Northlander back into service, so families and workers can travel conveniently from Union Station all the way to Timmins and Cochrane,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Our government will continue to invest in the largest public transit expansion in Canadian history as part of our plan to create jobs, tackle gridlock and protect workers and businesses.”
“Restoring Northlander passenger rail service is a clear sign of our government’s steadfast commitment to delivering greater affordability, economic opportunity and everyday convenience for the people and communities of Parry Sound—Muskoka,” said Graydon Smith
MPP for Parry Sound—Muskoka. “We’re taking action to strengthen regional connections, support local businesses and create more reliable travel options across northern and central Ontario. I look forward to riding the new Northlander trains, and I’m excited about the many opportunities this service will bring for residents, workers, students and visitors throughout Parry Sound—Muskoka.”
In 2025, the province began construction of Timmins-Porcupine Station, awarded the contract to reconstruct platforms and install shelters along the Northlander corridor and completed the North Bay Rail Bypass, which will cut travel times by 15 minutes. Once complete, the Northlander will offer rail service to sixteen stops from Toronto to Timmins, with a connection to Cochrane. Service will strengthen northern industries and the resource sector while improving access to good-paying jobs and essential services, including health care and education.
“The Northlander is an integral part of our government’s plan to equip northern communities, like Nipissing, with the safe, convenient and reliable transportation they deserve,” said Vic Fedeli, Member of Provincial Parliament for Nipissing. “The arrival of the first new trainset marks a significant and exciting milestone in this restoration process and will play a key role in ensuring Northern Ontario’s economy can be positioned for growth, resilience and prosperity for generations to come.”
The trainset 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.
“The arrival of the first of three new trainsets marks a major milestone on our journey toward the new era of the Northlander,” adds Chad Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Northland. “Designed with comfort, accessibility and safety top of mind, these new trainsets will offer a modern and reliable travel experience for all passengers. We are excited to continue to build momentum as we move another step closer to the launch of service.”
