Train Service between Moosonee and Cochrane Expected to Resume on Thursday

NORTH BAY, ON, Dec. 9 /CNW/ - Repairs to Ontario Northland's rail line between Moosonee and Cochrane are nearly complete and train service is expected to resume on Thursday.

The Polar Bear Express passenger train, which travels between Cochrane and Moosonee, is expected to resume its regular schedule beginning Thursday, December 10, 2009 . Extra coaches will be added to Thursday's train in order to accommodate all passengers holding tickets for travel on December 7 , 8, 9 and 10, 2009.

Passengers wishing to travel on Thursday are asked to arrive at the Station well in advance of travel time as a high volume of traffic is expected.

"We would like to thank all of our customers and partners for their patience and support over the last several days, and apologize once again for the inconvenience caused by this situation," said Steve Carmichael , President and CEO of Ontario Northland. "Thank you as well to our employees, who have gone above and beyond to repair our track and ensure that the needs of our customers were met during this difficult time."

Ontario Northland will once again be accepting reservations for travel on the Polar Bear Express, effective immediately. Passengers may call 1.800.265.2356 or 1.705.272.5338 to make train reservations.

Passengers wishing to ship vehicles via chain car are asked to contact 1.705.272.4212 to make reservations. Chain car space is limited and priority will be given to those individuals whose chain car reservations were cancelled earlier this week.

Rail freight service is also expected to resume on Thursday.

Passenger Information

For more information, passengers are encouraged to visit: www.OntarioNorthland.ca or to call 1.800.265.2356 or 705.272.5338.

For chain car reservations, customers are asked to call 1.705.272.4212.

Background

On Sunday, December 6, 2009 , an individual set fire to the Moose River Bridge, damaging a 60' section of railway track. As a result, the rail line between Moosonee and Cochrane was closed and all Ontario Northland passenger and freight trains were cancelled. The subject has been arrested and is in OPP custody.

Ontario Northland

Ontario Northland, an agency of the Province of Ontario, was established in 1902 and is a recognized leader in creating prosperity in the North by providing innovative transportation and telecommunication solutions. Operating primarily in northeastern Ontario, Ontario Northland's enterprises include: the Northlander, Polar Bear Express and Dream Catcher Express passenger trains; rail freight services; motor coach scheduled and charter services; refurbishment services; and Ontera telecommunication services.

For further information: Beverly Martin, Chief Communications Officer, Ontario Northland, [phone] or 1-800-363-7512 ext. 265; cell: [phone]