Ontario Acquiring More Railway to Help Deliver Fast, Reliable Northlander Service

March 13, 2026

Our government is taking a major step toward bringing back the Northlander by securing a dedicated rail corridor that will deliver fast, reliable passenger service and better connect families and workers across Central and Northeastern Ontario.

The acquisition of 205 kilometres of track between North Bay and Washago will improve on-time performance and reliability, create good-paying jobs and drive economic growth across the north.

While passenger rail service will be prioritized on the track, the acquisition will also support timely freight rail traffic, with freight revenues directed back to the provincial Crown corporation Ontario Northland.

Today’s announcement will help people and goods move more quickly and efficiently across the province, supporting our government’s plan to build a more competitive, more resilient and more self-reliant Ontario.

This progress builds on key milestones already achieved, including the arrival of the first Northlander trainset, over $100 million in rail infrastructure upgrades and the completion of the North Bay Rail Bypass.