Ontario Finishes North Bay Rail Bypass, Citing Shorter Northlander Travel Times

The Ontario government reports that it has completed a 982-metre rail bypass in North Bay. Officials state that the new section of track will reduce Northlander passenger train travel times by 15 minutes. The province indicated the project cost $5.7 million.

The bypass is designed to allow Northlander trains to avoid the North Bay Rail Yard, which is used by Canadian National (CN), Ottawa Valley Railway, and Ontario Northland. According to government statements, this separation is intended to keep passenger services away from freight train activity on that stretch of track.

Government sources state that the Northlander passenger train will run between Toronto and Timmins, with a rail connection to Cochrane. The service is expected to make 16 stops in towns across northeastern Ontario along its route.

Chad Evans, CEO of Ontario Northland, said, “The completion of the North Bay Rail Bypass contributes an important feature to the new era of the Northlander passenger rail service. This new section of track will enhance safety, improve passenger comfort, and reduce travel time.”

Several recent government contracts relate to the Northlander line. In July 2025, a contract was awarded for construction of Timmins-Porcupine Station, which will also serve Ontario Northland’s bus routes. In June 2025, EllisDon received a contract for reconstructing platforms and installing pre-manufactured shelters at stops from South River to Washago. Another contract announced in December 2024 covers similar upgrades from North Bay to Cochrane. In May 2024, contracts were announced for the design and manufacture of nine new station shelters, as well as for upgrades to rail safety and warning systems along the Northlander corridor.