“The completion of the North Bay Rail Bypass marks a transformative moment for our city and the entire region,” says Peter Chirico, Mayor of North Bay.
The Ontario government has completed the North Bay Rail Bypass, marking a major milestone in the province’s plan to bring back Northlander passenger rail service to northern Ontario. The 982-metre track will improve travel times by 15 minutes to North Bay Station, giving passengers more time with their families and friends while supporting tourism, jobs and economic growth in northern Ontario.
“With record investments in infrastructure, including the Northlander, our government is getting it done for the people of Ontario by helping to keep workers on the job in the face of tariffs and economic uncertainty,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “People and businesses across the north have long awaited the return of the Northlander and that is why we are delivering on our promise to restore this vital transportation network that will propel northern economic growth.”
The new track will ensure that Northlander passenger trains avoid the busy North Bay Rail Yard, improving safety and operational efficiency by keeping them clear of active freight operations between CN, Ottawa Valley Railway and Ontario Northland.
“This vital infrastructure investment will not only improve travel times and safety, but also strengthen our local economy by supporting tourism, job creation, and northern industries,” Chirico says. “We are proud to be part of the journey to bring back the Northlander, a service that will reconnect communities and expand access to essential services across northern Ontario. On behalf of the residents of North Bay, I want to thank the Ontario government for their continued commitment to northern growth and for getting it done for the north. ”
“The completion of the North Bay Rail Bypass marks an important milestone in our government’s revitalization and restoration of the Northlander, and delivers on a promise to connect Nipissing families, workers, and industries with economic opportunities across the province” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “We look forward to seeing the Northlander back in action, delivering the efficient, convenient, and affordable transportation that northern Ontario residents deserve.”
The Northlander will connect Toronto to Timmins with a rail connection to Cochrane, including a total of 16 stops along the way. It will support northern industries and the resource sector, improving access to good-paying jobs and essential services, including healthcare and education.
“The completion of the North Bay Rail Bypass contributes an important feature to the new era of the Northlander passenger rail service,” said Chad Evans, CEO of Ontario Northland. “This new section of track will enhance safety, improve passenger comfort, and reduce travel time. It marks an important milestone and the continued momentum propelling the Northlander program closer to in-service.”
