The Ontario government has revealed the first of three new Northlander passenger trains, signaling progress towards the anticipated revival of rail service between northern Ontario and Toronto. Premier Doug Ford emphasized the significance of reinstating the Northlander after its cancellation by the previous Liberal administration nearly 14 years ago. He highlighted the train’s vital role in connecting communities from Cochrane and Timmins to downtown Toronto, underscoring its importance as a link to employment, education, family, and social connections.
The Northlander service was terminated in 2012 due to high operational expenses and low ridership, prompting a shift to bus service under the former Liberal government led by Premier Kathleen Wynne. However, during his 2018 election campaign, Ford committed to reinstating the Northlander. Recently, the province announced the procurement of three new trainsets comprising a locomotive and three passenger cars for $139.5 million. The anticipated ridership is projected to range from 40,000 to 60,000 passengers annually by 2041.
The Northlander route will span approximately 740 kilometers between Toronto’s Union Station and Timmins, with stops at 16 locations and a connection to Cochrane. The journey is estimated to take 10 to 11 hours end-to-end, offering amenities such as accessible seating, washrooms, Wi-Fi, and charging ports. Following testing and commissioning in Toronto, the trains will undergo additional trials up north before commencing service later in 2026.
While the total cost of the Northlander’s reinstatement and ticket prices are undisclosed, a 2022 business case estimates annual operating expenses at around $283 million, offset by potential revenues of up to $93 million if ridership reaches approximately 58,000 passengers by 2041. In comparison, the Northlander transported about 39,000 passengers in 2011 before its discontinuation, requiring a $100 million annual subsidy to sustain operations.
Kirkland Lake Mayor Stacy Wight lauded the upcoming train service for simplifying travel, particularly for families with university students in southern Ontario. Wight emphasized the convenience the train will offer, streamlining journeys for students like her son and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents in northern Ontario.
