Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is organizing public meetings this month to discuss the re-establishment of passenger rail service between Chicago and Rockford. This initiative is part of Governor JB Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital program.

"As IDOT continues to progress with delivering this important Rebuild Illinois project, we invite the public to visit with the project team, learn more and ask questions," stated Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. "We are excited to share updates and hear from you about re-introducing passenger service between Chicago and Rockford."

These meetings will provide information about the project and offer an opportunity for public feedback. They will be conducted in an open-house format, featuring a video presentation, exhibit boards, and other relevant materials. Staff members will also be available for inquiries.

The meetings are scheduled as follows:

- Huntley: Thursday, September 21, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Huntley Park District.

- Rockford: Tuesday, September 26, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Veterans Memorial Hall.

- Elgin: Thursday, September 28, from 4 to 7 p.m., at The Centre of Elgin.

Rebuild Illinois has allocated $275 million for this rail project as part of a broader $1 billion effort within a six-year, $45 billion capital program aimed at enhancing passenger and freight rail services across the state. In July, Governor Pritzker announced Metra would operate the new service using the existing Milwaukee District West line in collaboration with Union Pacific Railroad.

The new service is tentatively set to begin in 2027. It will connect Chicago and Rockford with planned stops in Elgin, Huntley, and Belvidere. Project plans include improved grade crossings, upgraded bridges, double-tracking in certain areas, and new stations in Huntley and Belvidere.

Travel time between Chicago and Rockford is expected to be just under two hours with two round trips daily. Details regarding boarding locations in both cities along with fare structure and schedule are yet to be finalized.

For further details on the project or meeting specifics visit www.chicagotorockfordrail.org.