CHICAGO, Ill. – Improvements made to the Lincoln Service Amtrak line will make for a faster trip.
The Lincoln Service travels between Chicago and St. Louis, with stops in central Illinois in Normal and Springfield.
Illinois Department of Transportation spokesperson Paul Wappel says changes made through a nearly $2 billion high-speed rail project have now enabled passenger trains on the line to reach speeds up to 110 MPH. Currently, max speed is 90 MPH.
“Effective June 26th, 15 minutes will be eliminated from the existing route. And that’s 30 minutes difference from when it was 79 MPH. But 15 minutes will be eliminated from Chicago to St. Louis,” Wappel said.
Wappel adds that not only will the trains more faster, but they will be safer.
“212 grade crossings and four quadrant gates have been installed. Loop detectors to help prevent collisions with vehicles on the tracks. And pedestrian gates and fencing were also installed. So it’s going to save time, going to be safer,” Wappel said.
Wappel says 39 crossings deemed at-risk were also permanently closed.
In addition, improvements and upgrade were made to stations along the Lincoln Service route, including stations in Normal and Springfield.
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