Gov. Mike Braun, who was on hand for the Monon Corridor ribbon cutting, reported that the project was completed under budget.

“The West Lake Corridor project on the South Shore Line sets the table for massive future growth opportunities supporting the economic engine in northwest Indiana, creating jobs and helping to revitalize this region of our state,” said Braun in a press release. “Projections suggest that these projects will return $2 for every $1 of state investment, and I believe we will exceed these returns. The State of Indiana, and the Region, is open for business.”

The City of Hammond also plans a groundbreaking for the new downtown train station on April 16. It will be the third Hammond stop on the Monon Corridor.

The Monon Corridor, formerly the West Lake Corridor, is 8 miles of new track that connects north Hammond with the Munster/Dyer station. Passenger service officially began with the 11:45 a.m. train on March 31.

Federal, state, regional and local leaders were on hand for the first train's departure.

“As head of the organization that put together the funding for this project, and was subsequently charged with its financial oversight, the words ‘under budget’ are music to my ears,” said Sherri Ziller, president and CEO of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority. “This is an historic investment that will change the face of Northwest Indiana.”

The extension was projected to cost $943 million.

Dignitaries pointed out the importance of the double-track project and the Monon Corridor.

“The completion of this and other Northwest Indiana infrastructure projects will benefit Hoosiers for years to come,” said U.S. Sen. Todd Young. “Projects like the West Lake Corridor show how public-private partnerships can deliver big results, enhancing safety and regional connectivity.”

Others pointed to future economic development.

“Let’s not lose this momentum and continue working together, across all levels of government, to strengthen regional connectivity and secure the next generation of transformational investments to grow our economy,” said U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan.

Both South Shore Line projects are expected to attract 6,000 new jobs and $5 billion in economic development by 2048.