The chairman of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission says the Northlander is definitely on track for its return in 2026. Al Spacek provided an update on the progress that’s being made to date including the train sets. He says the commission was able to tag onto an order from Via Rail or there may have longer timelines.
“We are now getting close to the manufacturer of the rolling stock that is required,” he said. “You can appreciate there are a number of steps whether to make sure the tracks are in top shape for this or the safety attributes that have to be place for this reintroduction of this service. All of this is going well.”
Spacek says engineering and geo-technical work continues on the new terminus in Porcupine, and once it’s complete they hope to release drawings on the terminal to the public for input.
Spacek adds the support for the Northlander has been tremendous.
“No matter what community it was whether it was north of North Bay or South of North Bay people are very excited about the return of the Northlander and the opportunities it will present for passenger travel,” he said.