Community Profile 2016 | Page 13

Gas

Union Gas Limited is a major Canadian natural gas storage, transmission and distribution company based in Ontario with over 100 years of experience and service to customers. The Union Gas distribution business serves about 1.4 million residential, commercial and industrial customers in more than 400 communities across Ontario, including Cochrane.

Communications

Broadband and wireless have broken traditional economic constraints that have restricted opportunity in more rural environments, and the Town of Cochrane has led the way in ensuring the population is well positioned to take advantage of latest communication and technological advancements. Cochrane Telecom Services (CTS) offers the latest in internet, telecommunications, and advanced information technology. In addition to ensuring failsafe connectivity through its recently upgraded fiber optic infrastructure, CTS provides up to $800 thousand dollars annually in revenues, and gainfully employs many local residents.

Transportation

& logistics

Conveniently located along Highway 11, Cochrane is serviced by a network of road, rail, and air systems, connecting the town to major centers such as Timmins, Sudbury, and Toronto.

Rail

Operated by Ontario Northland (ONR), the Cochrane Railway Station represents a key hub for freight and cargo shipping by rail, for industry stakeholders in the community. Working in partnership with the Economic Development department, the ONR has been able to accommodate various industrial sectors, including forestry and mining, with possibilities of also catering to the agricultural sector. Soon to host a multi-modal site for industry partners in the area, the railway connection to Cochrane will be an important and affordable method of freight transportation for businesses in the North. The Railway Station also supports Cochrane’s tourism industry and is the southernmost stop for the Polar Bear Express, which operates five days a week and connects the community with Moosonee. In 2017, ONR will unveil a unique refurbishment project, set to enhance the transportation experience for tourists and residents of the James Bay Coast.

Bus

Ontario Northland also provides out-of-town motor-coach bus service, as well as parcel express shipping with lower competitive rates, between Toronto and locations in Central and Northern Ontario, including Cochrane. Wifi is available on all Ontario Northland coaches for passengers wherever a cellphone signal exists.

Water & Wastewater

The Water & Wastewater Services Department provides safe, potable water to all locations within its distribution system. In fact, Cochrane was in the first 5% of all Ontario municipalities to reach 100% accreditation for water quality, and has won back to back titles as the best tasting water in Northeastern Ontario. There is currently a metered rate structure for residential and commercial properties. In addition to providing the highest quality water, Cochrane’s Water and Wastewater Department is responsible for the collection and treatment of wastewater in accordance with provincial safety standards.

Air

The Cochrane Airport has a runway of 4,500 feet and serves as a vital hub linking passengers and freight to the James Bay Coastline. Home to two recently built hangars and warehouse, each measuring between 5,040 to 7,000 square feet, sites for aero development and storage are readily available. From private and executive charters coming and going, air cargo flights scheduled weekly, medivac services, lower fuel rates, and stationed aircraft maintenance engineers, the Cochrane Airport is always bustling with activity.

2015 WATER RATE RATE

COMPARISON

AIRPORT FEES

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