Construction Overview

In September 2010, one of the first construction projects in the national High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail (HSIPR) program began along the Chicago to St. Louis route to prepare it for future train operations at up to 110 miles per hour. This track renewal project will be completed over two construction seasons: 2010 and 2011.

The State of Illinois has ensured that the Chicago to St. Louis corridor remains at the forefront of passenger rail development.

On April 1, 2011, the second round of construction began to upgrade approximately 96 miles of existing track from Elkhart to Dwight. An additional 18 miles were also constructed between St Louis and Lenox. Construction was completed August 23rd.

Construction work for 2012 is scheduled to begin in late March or early April depending on weather conditions. Improvements in preparation for higher speed travel will be concentrated between Wann and Godfrey and from Pontiac to Joliet. Work will include building new sidings and second track, upgrades to bridges and culverts, drainage improvements, installation and upgrades to signal and wayside equipment and continued crossing and approach improvements.