South Shore Line to run first commercial trips on new track
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The South Shore Line will run its first commercial trips on new track this week.
The service operated by the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District announced Friday that trains will begin travel through the Michigan City to Dune Park stretch of track starting Wednesday, marking a major milestone in the line’s ongoing Double Track NWI project.
The service began construction in 2021 to rebuild existing track and lay a second line between a 17-mile stretch connecting Gary and Michigan City in an effort to reduce commute times by about 20 minutes. The South Shore Line has been busing passengers between the stops during construction.
The new stretch of track features safety enhancements including high-level platforms and the elimination of at-grade crossings. South Shore officials ran the service’s first test trains on new track in August. The overall project is expected to cost $649 million.
“The completion of the first phase is a momentous accomplishment and paves the way for the subsequent stages of the Double Track NWI project,” NICTD officials said in a news release. “As we celebrate this achievement, we extend our gratitude to our riders, our employees, the communities impacted, and all those involved for their steadfast support and patience during this construction period.”
Busing will continue between Dune Park and Gary Metro Center as crews continue to work in that area. When complete, the service will offer 14 additional weekday trains, reducing commute times between Northwest Indiana and Chicago.
“Looking ahead, the South Shore Line is committed to bringing the Double Track NWI project to full fruition by May 2024,” NICTD officials said. “The culmination of this ambitious endeavor promises a new era of efficient, safe, and connected transportation for the region.”
More information about revised train schedules and construction updates are available on the South Shore Line’s website at doubletrack-nwi.com/construction/next-steps.