Construction Underway on Northlander’s Timmins-Porcupine Station
July 15, 2025
Province marking major milestone in plan to bring back the Northlander
TIMMINS — The Ontario government has awarded a contract to build Timmins-Porcupine Station, marking a significant step in the province’s work to bring back Northlander passenger rail service between Timmins and Toronto. The northern terminal station for the Northlander will support northern industries, the resource sector and tourism, helping to support economic growth and keep thousands of people on the job in the face of tariffs and economic uncertainty.
“Our government is getting shovels in the ground on this critical station, delivering on our promise to bring back the Northlander and better connect northern communities to jobs, health care and opportunity,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “It’s all part of our plan to protect Ontario in the face of unprecedented U.S. tariffs. We’re supporting northern industries and the resource sector, unlocking economic growth and investing in infrastructure that builds a stronger, more resilient future for Ontario.”
Early work construction is currently underway on the platform, parking area and a passenger waiting area. Once complete, the Timmins-Porcupine Station will be a modern station with accessible washrooms, varied seating and a ticket counter. Outdoor features will include an accessible platform, motor coach bays, parking, pedestrian pathways, a taxi stand and a designated passenger pickup and drop-off area.
“The Northlander will fundamentally shift how people move across the province, creating more connections to the province’s integrated transportation network,” said Chad Evans, Chief Executive Officer at Ontario Northland. “The Northlander will provide improved access to essential services, such as health care and education, while supporting economic prosperity and tourism in the region, strengthening the connection between the north and the south.”
Work is also underway along the Northlander track to adjust curves to ensure the train runs at higher speeds and with fewer disruptions. Once reinstated, the Northlander will provide southbound service leaving from Timmins and northbound service leaving from Toronto, up to seven days a week, based on seasonal travel demands. There will be 16 stops in both directions, including a rail connection to Cochrane.
Quick Facts
- EllisDon has been awarded a contract to build Timmins-Porcupine Station, which will serve Northlander trains, motor coaches and Bus Parcel Express services.
- Last fall, the province awarded a contract to reconstruct platforms and install pre-manufactured shelters at train stops along the future Northlander corridor from North Bay to Cochrane.
- In May 2024, the province awarded three contracts to design and manufacture nine new Northlander station shelters, enhance rail safety and complete warning system upgrades.
Quotes
“The construction of the Timmins-Porcupine Station marks a major step forward in our government’s plan to restore the Northlander and expand passenger rail service across northern Ontario. This investment will better connect our communities to jobs, health care and education, while driving long-term economic growth. It’s a proud moment for Timmins and a clear demonstration of our commitment to building a stronger, more connected northern Ontario.”
– George Pirie
MPP for Timmins
“In these times of trade uncertainty, northern Ontario’s resources and industries have proven vital in bolstering our province’s economic resilience and unlocking new opportunities for workers and families. The revitalization of the Northlander represents a significant step forward in supporting improved labour mobility and regional growth, and affirms our government’s commitment to delivering safe, convenient, and reliable transportation for northern communities. We look forward to seeing the Timmins-Porcupine Station come to life and become a part of Ontario’s integrated transportation network. “
– Vic Fedeli
MPP for Nipissing
“The awarding of this contract to build the new Northlander station in Timmins is another important step toward restoring passenger rail service in northeastern Ontario. This project not only boosts regional connectivity, but also creates economic opportunities across the province—including right here in Parry Sound–Muskoka. Our government remains committed to strengthening rural and northern communities with the infrastructure they need to grow and thrive.”
– Graydon Smith
MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka
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