Northlander train still being repaired months after crash during testing
In early July, one of the Northlander trains ploughed into a vehicle at the rail crossing on High Falls Road when the lights were active to stop cars entering the track.
In July, a newly ordered Northlander train, intended to restart rail service to northern Ontario, was involved in a collision with a tow truck near Bracebridge. Despite the incident, which did not result in any injuries, the train has been out of service for nearly two months undergoing repairs. The Ministry of Transportation stated that the train's repairs would be finished soon, and testing and commissioning activities were progressing as preparations for service launch continued.
Premier Doug Ford had pledged to reopen the Northlander in his 2018 election campaign; however, its route had previously been discontinued by the Ontario Liberals in 2012.
The route is set to connect Toronto's Union Station with Timmins and Cochrane. Ontario NDP MLA Guy Bourgouin expressed frustration among locals who have been eagerly awaiting the train's return to their region. He noted that the government has yet to provide a clear timeline for the Northlander's reopening, with initial projections suggesting a launch by the end of August and then September.
While the Ministry of Transportation has not announced a specific opening date, they have indicated that the train line will commence operation in 2026.
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