across the Chicago region
of national and regional significance
generated in economic benefits
estimated job years created
This project will eliminate the most congested rail chokepoint in the Chicago Terminal, Belt Junction, where 30 Metra and 90 freight trains per day cross each other’s paths. The rail-rail flyover at 75th Street will eliminate conflict between 30 SouthWest Service Metra trains and 35 freight trains operating on the Western Avenue Corridor (CSX). The construction of an additional main line for Metra operation and the rail-rail flyover connection will reduce congestion and freight conflicts and will connect Metra’s SouthWest Service with the existing Rock Island District tracks, increasing capacity and improving reliability.
This project will allow SouthWest Service trains access to LaSalle Street Station instead of Union Station, which increases capacity for the SouthWest Service while also freeing capacity at Union Station for increased Amtrak service and proposed high-speed rail. This project also is expected to improve Amtrak Cardinal service performance by eliminating freight conflicts in the vicinity of 80th Street. The road-rail grade crossing separation at 71st Street will reduce neighborhood traffic delay and improve safety.
Spotlight Projects
CREATE Program Map
Explore CREATE's regional impact with the interactive project mapping tool.
Scroll, zoom, and select the project icons to learn more about past and current rail investments across the region.
Featured Bids & Request for Proposals
Fake Active Bid – Due Tomorrow
Fake Active Bid – less than a week out
CREATE B12 CSXT/IHB Third Mainline in Alsip, IL
Metra Issuing an Invitation to Bid on CREATE EW2 Metra Rock Island District Bridge Raise Construction
LEARN MOREUnion Pacific Railroad Issuing a Request for Qualifications for CREATE Project WA1 Construction Management Services
LEARN MORENorfolk Southern Railway Company Issuing an Invitation to Bid on CREATE Project EW3 – Segment A Construction
LEARN MORESee What CREATE is
Working on now
Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program is a first-of-its-kind partnership between the U.S. DOT, State of Illinois, Cook County, City of Chicago, Metra, Amtrak and the nation’s freight railroads. A project of national significance, CREATE will invest billions in critically needed improvements to increase the efficiency of the region’s passenger and freight rail infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for Chicago-area residents.
CREATE Program Benefits
Economic Growth
Chicago will be able to accommodate growth in passenger and freight trains
Fewer Delays
Reduced delay to passenger and freight trains
Cost Savings
Reduced shipping costs can be passed on to customers
Increased Safety
Eliminating rail-roadway conflicts at 25 grade crossing sites
Reduced Congestion
Easier movement through the area for trucks and cars
Fewer Delays
Reduced delay to vehicles from eliminating 25 grade crossings
Sustainability
Reduced emissions caused by idling vehicles and roadway congestion
Increased Safety
Eliminating rail-roadway conflicts at 25 grade crossing sites
Community Advisory
Community Mobility
Local Hiring, Workforce Dev.
Union Outreach
Education Program
DBE & Minority Contracting
Advancing Equity
Testimonials / Success Story
