HISTORY & MISSION.
History: The High-Speed Railway Commission Act created the High Speed Railway Commission to create a statewide plan for a high-speed rail line and feeder network connecting St. Louis, Missouri and Chicago, Illinois that includes current existing Amtrak and Metra services, connects the cities of Rockford, Moline, Peoria, and Decatur, and uses inter-city bus service to coordinate with the rail line. The Commission shall conduct a ridership study and shall make findings and recommendations concerning a governance structure, the frequency of service, and implementation of the plan.
The High-Speed Rail Commission Mission Statement: To create a statewide high-speed railway network plan for Illinois through actionable, achievable recommendations engaging governments on the local, state, and federal levels. Our efforts will support connecting the state with high-speed trains integrated with other modes of transportation linking additional communities into the passenger rail system. Our plan will benefit the people of Illinois through enhancements to both passenger and freight rail mobility, positive environmental benefits, potential economic development, and positioning Illinois for future funding opportunities.
To learn more about the High-Speed Rail Commission and to access Commission documents, click here.
STUDY
GOALS.
The primary goal of the study is to determine the feasibility of implementing high-speed rail between St. Louis, MO and Chicago, IL with a focus on providing safe, consistent, and reliable service while ensuring a comfortable customer experience. The service will aim to minimize trip travel time and maximize the frequency of service in line with the population served, ensuring ADA accessibility throughout. Key considerations include optimizing station locations to serve as many people as possible, facilitating connections to local transit, intercity bus networks, and airports, and ensuring coverage in disadvantaged communities. Public input will play a vital role, and the project will seek to maximize economic development through enhanced regional connectivity.
COMMITTEES.
One or more Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) will be established made up of individuals with specific technical expertise that may aid in the study development. TAC meetings will share information and foster discussion by addressing specific study issues, allowing for more specialized discussions and input. Up to 12 TAC meetings will occur throughout the project. These meetings are on an “as needed” basis, with no set schedule.