In a significant development for transportation in northern Illinois, Metra, in partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and Union Pacific Railroad, is set to restore passenger rail service between Chicago and Rockford. This service, which has been absent for over 40 years, is part of Governor JB Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital program.
Project Overview
The Chicago to Rockford corridor, approximately 90 miles long, will be revitalized with several key improvements. These include track enhancements to support speeds up to 79 mph, construction of a connection between Metra and Union Pacific tracks at Big Timber, and station improvements at Elgin, Huntley, and Belvidere. Additional work will involve enhancing grade crossings, upgrading bridges, and building new control points and sidings.
Key Improvements and Infrastructure
The project will see significant infrastructure upgrades, including the construction of new stations in Huntley and Belvidere, and the improvement of existing stations. The Milwaukee District West line, which currently serves Chicago's northwestern suburbs, will be extended beyond Elgin to reach Rockford. This extension will involve double-tracking at various locations and the rehabilitation of the track segment between Belvidere and Rockford, including the bridge over the Rock River.
Service Details
The restored service is expected to commence by late 2027, with two daily round trips planned. The travel time between Chicago and Rockford is anticipated to be slightly less than two hours. The service will include stops in Elgin, Huntley, and Belvidere, in addition to the terminals at Chicago Union Station and a new station in downtown Rockford.
Public Engagement and Information Sessions
IDOT is hosting a series of public meetings to inform the community about the project. These meetings, held in an open-house format, will provide an opportunity for attendees to learn about the project details, view exhibit boards, and engage with the IDOT project team. This public engagement is crucial for gathering feedback and ensuring the community is well-informed about the upcoming changes.
The restoration of passenger rail service is expected to have a positive impact on the region, including the creation of construction and engineering jobs, economic growth, and reduced pollution and traffic congestion. Local officials, such as State Senator Steve Stadelman and State Rep. Maurice West, have expressed enthusiasm about the project's potential to spur economic development and improve the quality of life in northern Illinois.
