Our Projects
Thornton Junction Connection
Topline Community Benefits
Increased freight rail reliability for 80 trains.
Enhanced connectivity between lines.
Improved routing flexibility.
Project Funding Needs
Project Location Map
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Municipality
South Holland
Project Area
| North Limit | E 164th St. |
|---|---|
| South Limit | E 168th St. |
| East Limit | South Park Ave. |
| West Limit | State St. |
Project Overview & Impact
Thornton Junction installed a new interlocked connection between the CN and UP/CSX subdivisions in the southwest quadrant of the crossing. As part of the project, the team installed upgrades between the area near 168th Street and State Street.
Previously the UP and CN tracks crossed each other but did not connect. Due to the lack of a connection, trains could not switch from one line to the other. The new connection allows trains to switch between the lines and provides increased flexibility for dispatchers routing trains throughout the Chicago Terminal District.
Project Benefits
CommunitiesThe Thornton Junction Connection improves regional rail by enhancing connectivity and flexibility in the system.
Nearby Chicago, IL Community Areas: South Holland
Jobs & EconomicsIncreased freight rail movement enables higher throughput of goods and associated economic activity.
EnvironmentalImproved operations and design reduces emissions from idling trains.
Passenger Rail ServicesFreight rail system benefits support the entire rail system.
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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
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