The Ontario government has announced the completion of construction work on 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, connecting the CN Newmarket subdivision to the ONTC mainline track on the Temagami Subdivision.

It will also 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.

“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 province invested $5.7 million to build the project. It has since announced several construction contracts to support the delivery of the new rail infrastructure. These include a contract to EllisDon to reconstruct platforms and install pre-manufactured shelters at train stops along the Northlander corridor from South River to Washago, another to build Timmins-Porcupine Station, and a third to reconstruct platforms and install pre-manufactured shelters at train stops along the Northlander corridor.

Once complete, 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.