Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) are partnering with Union Pacific Railroad and Metra to re-establish intercity passenger rail service from Chicago to Rockford, with intermediate stops planned in Elgin, Huntley and Belvidere. This service will provide efficient, safe and reliable transportation operations, with passenger trains traveling at maximum speeds of up to 79 mph, connecting Illinois communities in Cook, Kane, McHenry, Boone and Winnebago. Passenger service is expected to begin by 2027.
Passenger rail service between Chicago and Rockford is available through the "Black Hawk" route, which ends due to reduced funding and as automobiles become the transportation mode of choice.
Operators and IDOT conduct feasibility studies and weigh route options.
Governor Pritzker allocates $275 million in the "Rebuild Illinois" capital plan for Chicago to Rockford Intercity Passenger Rail allowing IDOT to reinstates the program. IDOT begins negotiating stakeholder and operator agreements.
Governor Pritzker announces Metra will operate Chicago to Rockford Intercity Passenger Rail service.
IDOT advances design, field reviews, environmental clearances and stakeholder coordination.
Construction of proposed improvements required for Chicago to Rockford Intercity Passenger Rail Service.
Intercity Passenger Rail service between Chicago and Rockford is anticipated to resume.
Join the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) at one of four public meetings to learn more about the Chicago to Rockford Intercity Passenger Rail Program. The public meetings will follow an open-house format with a repeating presentation and exhibit boards available to view. Attendees will also have an opportunity to engage and discuss any questions with the IDOT project team. Click here to learn more about the upcoming meetings!
IDOT released program updates regarding crossings and stations. If you would like to subscribe to receive future updates, please visit the Stay Informed page of the website.
IDOT released its third issue of the program newsletter on February 1st. Click here to view program updates. If you would like to subscribe to receive future updates, please visit the Stay Informed page of the website.
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) concluded their first series of public meetings in September. Additional engagement opportunities will become available as the program progresses. If you were not able to attend a public meeting, the meeting presentation is available for further viewing. View Presentation
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) invites you to learn more about the Chicago to Rockford Intercity Passenger Rail Program. IDOT is hosting a series of public meetings to introduce the program and facilitate feedback opportunities. Learn more about these meetings.
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