With Ontario working to return passenger train service to Northern Ontario, Timmins has been named as a train terminal site.
Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney made the announcement on social media Thursday after the province released its 2021 Ontario Economic Outlook.
In a statement, Mayor George Pirie said the benefits of the train service would be widespread.
"This is positive news for residents, local business and industry. While studies are ongoing, the fact that Porcupine has been chosen as their terminus location is a great start. Timmins' position as a regional hub will be enhanced by having another transportation option available," he said.
In the spring, the government announced plans to return passenger train service to the north. Planning and design work is expected to be completed in 2022, with rail service potential being restored in the mid-2020s. The province has committed $5 million for the feasibility work.
Communications advisor Nick Eakins said Timmins is a key hub because of its large population and employment base.
"We are currently working to assess the route, and this includes collaboration with the ONTC to speed up work on a track audit on a section of the North Bay corridor that will examine safety and infrastructure needs for potential future train service," said Eakins.
"We want to get this right and will not be taking any shortcuts as we move forward.
"We will also continue to explore opportunities to connect Cochrane with any future Northeastern Passenger Rail service."
The MTO did not give a firm date or further timeline for the return of the passenger train.
Passenger rail service was cancelled in Northern Ontario in 2012. At that time the train service did not run into Timmins and was a Toronto to Cochrane line.
In 2018, Premier Doug Ford made a campaign promise to restore passenger rail service.
The next Ontario election is June 2022.
In Timmins, Pirie is the PC candidate.
