Where Are We Now?

Record of Decision (ROD) & Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

As a result of the 2004 Record of Decision (ROD), Illinois’ signature passenger rail route, Chicago to St. Louis, was selected by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for $1.1 billion for corridor improvements between Dwight and St. Louis.  These improvements include upgraded track built and maintained to 110 miles per hour standards, siding and crossovers, grade crossing surfaces, signals and warning system, stations, and new high-speed passenger trains.

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. Learn more about the 2011 Construction »

Construction work in 2012 is scheduled to begin in 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. Upgrades through Springfield will not take place at this time. A study is currently underway to determine the best route through that area.

As a result of the FRA’s $1.25 million funding selection, the Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) study for the full build out (a second mainline track) began in late Fall 2010. This study will determine routing alternatives for Chicago to Dwight.  Learn more about the Tier 1 EIS »