By Railfan & Railroad Staff

The rehabilitation of Manitoba’s Hudson Bay Railway took a major leap forward in 2024, helping increase track speeds on the Indigenous- and community-owned railroad.

The 810-mile Hudson Bay Railway is owned by Arctic Gateway Group, which also owns the Port of Churchill, Canada’s only Arctic seaport serviced by rail. The former Canadian National route between The Pas and Churchill, Man., features freight and passenger service. 

In 2024, the railroad completed 2.3 million feet of spot surfacing; installed 119,965 new ties; unloaded 1,600 carloads of ballast; completed three major grade crossing rehabilations; and upgraded 11 switches. According to a press release, the improvements have cut travel time on the rail line by three hours 

“This year has been pivotal for AGG and the Hudson Bay Railway, with significant strides in improving our infrastructure and operations,” said Chris Avery, CEO of Arctic Gateway Group. “The upgrades completed this year are a testament to our commitment to providing reliable and efficient railway services and ensuring that the Port of Churchill and the Arctic Trade Corridor can finally reach their full potential after so many years of neglect.”