GO Transit’s Bradford to Barrie Commuter Extension
- Served as the general contractor
- Rehabilitated 21 miles of track
- Undercut and replaced more than 13 miles of track
- Managed subcontractors to perform related work
PNR RailWorks served as the general contractor to construct a commuter extension on GO Transit’s Bradford to Barrie line in Ontario.
PNR RailWorks crews began work in January of 2007 on the nearly 21-mile track rehabilitation project for customer GO Transit. Track crews undercut and replaced more than 13 miles of track with new 115-lb continuous welded rail. The new rail required more than 400 thermite welds, installing 32,000 new ties as well as ballasting and surfacing more than 21 miles of track.
As the general contractor, PNR RailWorks was responsible for coordinating with a range of subcontractors on related work, including completing bridge repairs, replacing culverts, preparing grades and installing more than 42 miles of new fencing.
The line’s expansion presented the additional challenges of working in populated areas with environmental considerations. PNR RailWorks coordinated closely with the townships along the route as well as a GO Transit environmentalist and the Ministry of Environment. This coordination contributed to the successful completion of the project on time and without any incidents or environmental damage.


