From Chicago Sun-Times · · 2m
Metra's Dream Plan for Crosstown Service
Metra aims to run trains every 15-30 minutes connecting suburbs to O'Hare via Union Station.
In brief
Metra aims to run trains every 15-30 minutes connecting suburbs to O'Hare via Union Station. Metra's draft plan would create crosstown service with trains every 15-30 minutes by running through Union Station. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Metra Unveils Regional Rail Plan
Metra released a draft Systemwide Network Plan to convert 11 commuter rail lines into all-day frequent regional rail.
Crosstown Service Through Union Station
The plan would create crosstown service by running trains through Chicago’s Union Station.
Trains Every 15-30 Minutes
Metra aims to run trains every 15-30 minutes connecting south and west suburbs directly to O’Hare Airport.
$9 Billion Price Tag
The estimated cost of Metra’s plan is $9 billion, 18 times greater than its current $500 million infrastructure budget.
First Phase: Frequent Service
Metra could add trains every 30-60 minutes with few track changes by dividing service into inner and outer zones.
O’Hare Connection Challenge
Getting trains to O’Hare every 30 minutes is difficult due to shared tracks with freight railroads.
Second Phase: 15-30 Minute Service
The second phase would run trains every 15-30 minutes and provide direct crosstown trips.
Union Station Upgrade
The plan estimates a $610 million price tag to improve Union Station for train through service.
Rock Island Line Option
Metra considers running the Rock Island Line through Union Station from LaSalle Street Station.
Battery-Powered Trains
Metra needs many more smaller, faster battery-powered trains to achieve frequent service.
Joseph Schwieterman's View
Joseph Schwieterman says the plan identifies routes best suited for crosstown service.
Union Station Complexity
Metra acknowledges Union Station’s complexity and plans a detailed start with one through-track.
Funding Challenges
Metra must negotiate with freight railroads and faces capacity issues at rail yards and Union Station.
Post-Pandemic Response
Metra began studying regional rail in 2023 as a response to changing ridership habits post-COVID-19.
The one thing
Metra's draft plan would create crosstown service with trains every 15-30 minutes by running through Union Station.
