Our Projects
Melrose Connection
Topline Community Benefits
Increased freight rail reliability for over 25 trains.
Modern physical infrastructure upgrades.
Enhanced capacity and operational efficiency.
Project Funding Needs
Project Location Map
This map highlights the project's location within the region.
To learn more about other CREATE projects, zoom out to explore the map.
Municipality
Bellwood
Project Area
| North Limit | Lake St. |
|---|---|
| South Limit | Erie St. |
| East Limit | 25th Ave. |
| West Limit | I-294 |
Project Overview & Impact
Prior to the completion of this project, trains departing Proviso Yard on the original single track would block the Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad (IHB) main lines, preventing other trains from moving through the area at the same time. This project added new track on a new bridge to create a second connection between the IHB and Union Pacific’s Proviso Yard.
The second connection on the new rail bridge allows trains to maintain active operation on the IHB at the same time trains are entering and departing Proviso Yard, which greatly increases capacity.
Project Benefits
CommunitiesThe Melrose Connection improves the rail system by providing enhanced reliability, increased capacity and less congestion for rail operators.
Nearby Chicago, IL Community Areas: Bellwood
Jobs & EconomicsIncreased freight movement enables higher throughput of goods and associated economic activity.
EnvironmentalImproved operations and design reduces emissions from idling trains.
Passenger Rail ServicesFreight system improvements benefit the entire rail system.
Get Involved
If your organization is interested in working with the CREATE Program, please refer to our Bid Advertisements and RFP page to apply for active projects.
We also encourage you to attend our Get On Board: Business-to-Business networking events, Union Outreach events, and other relevant events to learn more about the Program and build connections. Please see our Events page for the latest information on upcoming events.
CREATE partners also fund on-the-job training on construction projects for entry-level positions who have graduated from IDOT’s Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP). For more information on the program, please click here to learn more.
Project Status
| Phase I | Completed |
|---|
| Phase II | Completed |
|---|
| Phase III | Completed |
|---|
Project Status Definitions:
– Phase I: Environmental & Preliminary Engineering
– Phase II: Final Design (Plans, Specifications & Estimates)
– Phase III: Construction
Stay Informed About These Projects
Want to stay in the know? Sign up for the CREATE newsletter to receive the latest project updates and ongoing project information.