Metra Rock Island Line Finalizes New Schedule

The Metra Rock Island line has finalized its new schedule. A trial run of the new schedule is set to begin on Monday, January 28^th and will not affect the weekend schedule.

The changes are needed for the new Positive Train Control (PTC) safety system, which is federally mandated. Under the Rail Safety Improvement Act, Metra must install PTC on the five train lines it controls, which includes Rock Island. The new safety system will assist in preventing derailments and accidents due to high speeds and increase safety for passengers and railroad workers, among other features.

The new schedule changes also reflect feedback from over 800 riders regarding the original proposed schedule by Metra officials.

Some updates include maintaining a proposed inbound train that arrives downtown before 6:00 a.m., restoring the departure time for several outbound trains, and converting an inbound train from Tinley Park-80^th Avenue into an express train. Metra Rock Island passengers are urged to preview the new schedule to see if their commute is affected.

Metra officials are expected to monitor and evaluate progress over the next few months during the trial period.

The Metra Rock Island line runs from Chicago’s LaSalle Street Station to Joliet and currently includes 26 stations along the route.

More information about the new schedule changes can be found here.

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