Northlander’s return reignites calls for passenger rail stop in Beaverton

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: As Ontario prepares to welcome back the Northlander passenger train, the release of the revived service’s proposed schedule has reignited calls, in Beaverton, for a long-sought return to the passenger rail map.

Ontario Northland recently announced details of the restored Northlander service, which will operate between Toronto’s Union Station and Timmins, with a rail connection to Cochrane. The return of the train which is anticipated in 2026, marks a major milestone for northern and central Ontario communities which have been without passenger rail service for more than a decade.

Under the proposed schedule, northbound and southbound trains will stop in communities, such as: Timmins, Huntsville, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Washago, and Gormley. The full route spans approximately 740 kilometres, with 16 stops along the corridor. Service is expected to operate four to seven days a week, depending on seasonal demand. A specific launch date has not yet been announced, and Ontario Northland has not responded to requests for clarification on when the first trip will take place.

Notably absent from the list of stops, is Beaverton, despite the community’s location along the rail line and its historic role as a passenger rail stop. The gap between Gormley and Washago leaves northern Durham Region and parts of Kawartha Lakes without direct access to the revived service, a reality which has frustrated residents and strengthened calls for a Beaverton station.

“It feels like we’re being skipped over again,” said, longtime Beaverton resident, Karen Mitchell, who commutes regularly to the Greater Toronto Area. “Passenger rail would be a game-changer for people who don’t want to rely on highways every day. The tracks are already here, so why wouldn’t Beaverton be part of the plan?”

That concern was echoed at a Township of Brock council meeting, in September of 2024, where representatives from Durham Region’s Planning and Economic Development Department presented a detailed feasibility study, on reintroducing passenger rail service to Beaverton.

The presentation included a historical overview of rail service in the community which was discontinued in 1990. Once a busy stop along the Canadian Northern Railway, Beaverton’s station was removed shortly after service ended, with the site later repurposed for CN Rail maintenance.

Regional Councillor Cria Pettingill said, the renewed discussion reflects both the town’s growth and changing transportation needs.

“A station in Beaverton would be huge for our communities and would tick so many boxes, from improved transportation options to environmental benefits,” Councillor Pettingill said. “This is about long-term planning and making sure Brock Township isn’t left behind, as major investments are made elsewhere.”

According to the regional analysis, a Beaverton station could serve approximately 6,100 residents and 1,900 jobs, in the immediate area. By 2041, those figures are projected to grow to 7,700 residents and 3,000 jobs within the town, with an additional 53,000 residents and 12,000 jobs within a 20-kilometre radius.

For residents like Mark D’Souza, who moved to Beaverton ten years ago, those numbers reflect what he sees on the ground.

“Beaverton isn’t the quiet little town it used to be,” Mr. D’Souza said. “We’ve got young families, seniors and people commuting in all directions. A train stop would connect us properly to the rest of the province.”

Mayor Mike Jubb highlighted the potential impact on travel times, particularly for those heading south.

“We’re talking about reducing travel times to Union Station from five and a half hours to just under two hours,” Mayor Jubb said. “That kind of improvement would be transformative for residents, whether they’re commuting for work, education or medical appointments.”

Council was shown three possible station locations: the original site near Victoria Avenue, a location near Main and Simcoe streets, and an area at the end of Nine Mile Road. The Victoria Avenue site emerged as a strong contender, due to its proximity to the downtown core and existing infrastructure.

Estimated construction costs range between $1 million and $3 million, depending on site selection and station design. Proposed features include: a 50-metre platform, a heated shelter, CCTV surveillance and between 10 and 20 parking spaces. Township and regional staff indicated they would explore cost-sharing opportunities with provincial and federal partners.

Meanwhile, Ontario Northland says, passengers can expect a significantly upgraded experience aboard the revived Northlander. Planned improvements, including modernized stations with Wi-Fi, reliable heating, and real-time arrival updates, as well as new rolling stock. The service will feature a new locomotive and three new passenger cars, equipped with power outlets, wide aisles, adjustable tray tables and improved accessibility. Track and infrastructure upgrades are also expected to provide a smoother, more fuel-efficient ride.

Ticket prices have not yet been finalized, though Ontario Northland has stated, affordability will be a key consideration when fares are announced closer to the service launch.

As anticipation builds for the Northlander’s return, Beaverton residents say, the newly released schedule has only sharpened their resolve to ensure the community is not left watching the train pass by once again.