The Ontario government is investing over $350 million to refurbish 121 GO Transit bi-level rail cars at Ontario Northland’s facility in North Bay. The province says this investment is part of the ongoing service expansion across the GO rail network and will support hundreds of manufacturing jobs and economic growth in northern Ontario.
“Premier Ford and our government have an ambitious plan to increase access to fast, affordable and reliable public transit across Ontario, and we need all hands on deck to achieve it,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “We’re proud to invest in made-in-Ontario solutions that will deliver world-class transit while keeping good jobs in our province, right where they belong.”
A news release states that the refurbished rail cars will be equipped with new interior finishings, such as seating, flooring, walls, and ceilings, as well as new doors and HVAC control system. The work will be completed by Ontario Northland in North Bay, benefitting the region by sustaining and creating well-paying jobs, while supporting local suppliers and businesses.
“Today’s investment of over $350 million to refurbish 121 GO trains at Ontario Northland’s Remanufacturing and Repair Centre in North Bay will support jobs and economic development here in our region,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “As part of our government’s plan to build Ontario, we’ll continue to support local industry while enhancing public transit across the province.”
Refurbishing the bi-level rail coaches will extend their life by 20 years, while supporting the province’s ambitious GO Expansion program, which aims to deliver two-way, all-day service to Oshawa, Burlington, Kitchener, Stouffville and Barrie.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the government of Ontario and Metrolinx on these important refurbishment projects,” said Chad Evans, Chief Executive Officer of Ontario Northland. “Our commitment to excellence continues to attract business to our Remanufacturing and Repair Centre that has resulted in job creation and job stability for our employees and continues to drive economic growth throughout the region.”
