Monday, December 11, 2023
Amtrak and its Midwest collaborators have secured over $101 million in federal grants for the Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP). The funds will enhance existing routes and support Amtrak’s expansion plans. Amtrak Board Chair Tony Coscia emphasizes the collaboration to maximize Chicago’s role as the central hub, driving improved mobility and economic growth. Multiple grants, announced under USDOT’s Federal State Partnership (“Fed-State”) and Corridor Identification and Development (“Corridor ID”) programs, will directly benefit Amtrak and its partners.
“With soaring ridership, these grants enable further investment in Chicago Union Station and enhance services across the Midwest,” says Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner. CHIP aims to transform intercity passenger rail by expanding capacity, improving reliability, and providing better access. The grants received, including $93.6 million for Chicago Union Station, will enhance the customer experience by renovating platforms, improving access, ensuring ADA compliance, and upgrading ventilation systems.
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) awarded up to $500,000 in grant funding to all four Corridor ID applications submitted by Amtrak. These include studying an increase in daily Cardinal train service between Chicago and New York City. Amtrak VP Jeannie Kwon underscores the need for additional investments to meet mobility needs and support future services in the Midwest.
The comprehensive intercity passenger rail planning program led by the FRA, created by the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, aligns with Amtrak’s position to support the proposed expansion of intercity passenger rail across identified corridors. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker highlights the federal investment’s significance, envisioning a robust, accessible, and connected railroad system. Illinois U.S. Senator Dick Durbin acknowledges the strategic move to ensure Chicago remains a thriving nexus, connecting people, goods, and ideas.
Improvements to Chicago’s Union Station are deemed critical by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, addressing congestion, bottlenecks, and delays. U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley emphasizes the major step in modernizing Union Station for a safer and more efficient future of passenger rail travel. U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly welcomes historic investments, noting the positive impact on the economy, climate, and communities.
FRA Administrator Amit Bose recognizes the long history of investing in Chicago’s rail hub, including grants for Chicago Union Station. The Corridor Identification and Development Program will address bottlenecks and improve access in the existing Midwest corridor network. FRA looks forward to collaborating with state, regional leaders, and Amtrak to ensure the vital rail hub is positioned for the future.
Saturday, December 30, 2023
Saturday, December 30, 2023
