The Connecting Illinois via High-Speed Rail project upgraded the Chicago to St. Louis corridor; allowing train speeds to rise from 79 miles per hour to 110 miles per hour. This $2 billion initiative improves service along the Midwest’s most heavily traveled passenger rail route, while encouraging a more balanced use of transportation modes. Currently, 99 percent of the 35 million annual trips between Chicago and St. Louis are by highway and air. Led by the Illinois Department of Transportation, this new enhanced rail service offers a “greener” transportation option, creates jobs, boosts economic activity and reduces congestion. Since the corridor spans the state, improvements positively impact dozens of communities, including Joliet, Dwight, Pontiac, Normal, Lincoln, Springfield, Carlinville, and Alton. All of these communities have new or renovated stations with improved amenities, including free WiFi and expanded bicycle accommodations. These stations were designed with community input to meet the specific needs of stakeholders in each community. Additionally, the new stations provide an entry point to each community that will improve tourism and community connectivity, while making train travel easier.
America's Transportation Awards 