CROWN POINT – The Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA) and the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD) have chosen URS Corp. to develop a strategic business plan for commuter transit in northern Indiana.

The two organizations will split the estimated $550,000 cost of the plan, which is expected to be complete in early 2014.

“Connectivity to Chicago is key to the economic health of the region,” said RDA President and CEO Bill Hanna. “This plan will help us to maximize the job creation and economic development potential of the South Shore line.”

Mark Yagelski, NICTD Board chairman and LaPorte County Council president, said that NICTD is looking forward to having the RDA/URS team help chart a course for future strategic investment that will enhance Northwest Indiana’s access to Chicago.

Items and issues that URS will address as part of the strategic plan include, but are not limited to strategies for increased ridership, transit-oriented development, access to airports and recreational destinations, public/private partnerships and expansion of service.