October 23, 2020
TORONTO ― Ontario is launching an online survey as part of its commitment to improve passenger rail and bus services between Toronto, North Bay, Timmins and Cochrane. Responses to the Northeastern Ontario transportation survey will be used to explore options for passenger rail services and help inform the future transportation plan for Northern Ontario.
“We’re inviting everyone, particularly in Northeastern Ontario, to take our survey and help build a transportation network that works for their needs,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “The feedback we receive will be an important component to improving transportation options for northern communities and supporting economic growth in the north.”
The Northeastern Ontario transportation survey seeks feedback on preferences for passenger rail and bus services in Northeastern Ontario, including departure times, train frequency, travel time and cost considerations. The survey is open to public feedback, including municipalities, Indigenous communities, businesses and industry, with the deadline for all submissions on or before November 20, 2020.
“As part of our government’s plan for passenger rail services in the North, we are seeking input and feedback on key details from the public,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade and MPP for Nipissing. “This survey will allow people in Nipissing and communities across the region to have their say in continuing to improve those vital connections.”
This survey builds on the province’s recent actions to improve transportation across Northern Ontario. This includes building and upgrading rest areas along highways in the North to provide drivers with safe places to stop and enhancing winter maintenance activities to clear roads faster. Through 2020-21, Ontario will invest $625 million to expand and repair northern highways, estimated to create or sustain approximately 4,370 direct and indirect construction jobs for the people of Northern Ontario.
“Our government recognizes the unique transportation needs and challenges of the North,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. “Improving transportation options and connecting communities will enhance quality of life by providing northerners with better access to services, medical appointments and family.”
Quick Facts
- Ontario is developing regional transportation plans that will help build a better transportation system to keep people and goods moving across the province, including Northern Ontario. This project is part of the province’s plan to get people where they need to go and support economic opportunities in the North.
- The northeastern rail corridor from Toronto to Cochrane is home to over 3.1 million people.
Natasha Tremblay, Minister Mulroney’s Office, 437 778-3503 Natasha.Tremblay@ontario.ca
Michael O’Morrow, Communications Branch, 416 327-1158 MTO.media@ontario.ca
As you may have an interest in seeing passenger train service resume in northeastern Ontario, the Committee Promoting Muskoka Rail Travel (CPMRT) and the Northeastern Ontario Rail Network (NEORN) are pleased to forward to you this recent media release from the Ministry of Transportation.
We urge you to complete the Ministry of Transportation survey as well as forward this content to your contacts who may share your interest in passenger rail service from Toronto to northeastern Ontario, through Muskoka to North Bay all the way to Timmins and Cochrane, connecting with the Polar Bear Express to Moosonee.
HELP GET THE TRAIN BACK ON THE TRACK —
TAKE THE SURVEY!!!!! NOW! DEADLINE NOVEMBER 20.
NEORN Co-Chairs THANK YOU
Lucille Frith lakeofbays.lucille@gmail.com
Howie Wilcox williamwilcox48@gmail.com
The Northeastern Ontario Rail Network (NEORN) continues to advocate to the provincial and federal governments for:
- the return of passenger rail service in Northeastern Ontario,
- improving existing passenger and freight rail services in the north,
- placing a moratorium on removal of any rail lines.