Ontario Construction News staff writer
EllisDon has been awarded a construction contract to build platforms at train stops in North Bay, Temagami, Temiskaming Shores, Englehart, Kirkland Lake, Matheson and Cochrane.
The Government of Ontario has awarded a contract for stations along the future Northlander corridor, a milestone in the province’s plan to bring back safe and reliable passenger rail service between Timmins and Toronto.
“The Northlander will not only bring safe and reliable transportation back to communities ranging from Muskoka to North Bay to Timmins, it will also help unlock the province’s full economic potential by supporting northern industries and resource sectors and improving access to good-paying jobs and essential services like health care and education,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation.
In each location, crews will install raised concrete platforms with improved accessibility, lighting and signage. The contract also includes the installation of pre-manufactured shelters at stops in Matheson, Kirkland Lake, Temiskaming Shores and Temagami. The government will award a separate contract for the construction of Timmins-Porcupine station.
“Northern Ontario has always been a major contributor to our provincial economy, with potential for further growth in the years to come” said George Pirie, MPP for Timmins. “By fulfilling our promise and bringing back the Northlander, our government is connecting the north to new economic opportunities and enabling improved access to services.”
New exterior design of the Northlander were also revealed last week, a first look at fully accessible trains that will feature built-in wheelchair lifts, mobility aid storage spaces, galley-style food services, Wi-Fi and fully accessible washrooms.
Once reinstated, the Northlander will provide southbound service leaving from Timmins and northbound service leaving from Toronto, four to seven days a week, based on seasonal travel demands. There will be 16 stops in both directions.
“The construction now taking place will ensure the Northlander stops are safe, reliable and welcoming for all passengers,” said Chad Evans, CEO for Ontario Northland. “We are excited to see this work being delivered and to showcase the exterior design of the trainset.
“These are critical milestones as we prepare for the new era of the Northlander.”