The first train on the new South Shore Line double track from Michigan City's 11th Street station departed Oct. 25 as scheduled.
The completion of this first phase of the project will allow passengers to board trains between Carroll Avenue and Dune Park stations, according to a revised train schedule that began Oct. 25.
“We look forward to welcoming everybody back to our new, massively improved railroad,” said an update from the South Shore Line. “We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we progress through this important construction project. As always, please be cautious at grade crossings and keep a safe distance from the tracks.”
Construction on the project from Gary to Michigan City began in late 2021 and is set for completion by May 2024. Travel times are estimated to decrease from 1 hour 41 minutes to 67 minutes on an express from Michigan City to Chicago once the project is fully completed.
The Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District was awarded New Starts federal funds to build 16.9 miles of a second track along the South Shore Line between Gary and Michigan City, according to a project overview. The project was estimated to cost $649.5 million, with 30% of that cost coming from the New Starts and American Rescue Plan funds. The rest of the cost is funded by state, RDA and local funds.
