City, County and Business Leaders have a prime opportunity to change economic development momentum in the region by participating with Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties in an upgrade of the South Shore rail network by double tracking a 16.9 mile section of track between Gary and Michigan City. This new double track section of rail, coupled with 9 new rail station platforms, 4 new bridges, and the closure of 21 at-grade crossings in Michigan City, will increase safety, eliminate the need for the passenger line to wait for oncoming freight trains, and allow for an increase of passenger trains running along the entirety of the line.
Visit the Double Track NWI website to stay updated on the current status of the project
Local officials are also studying the realignment options for a new terminus station in South Bend. One proposal being studied looks at taking the rail line to the west side of the terminal building at the South Bend International Airport. Another option is to extend the rail line and put a new terminus station adjacent to Four Winds Field in Downtown South Bend. The studies are being completed looking at both locations and decisions should be made in 2020 about next steps for this project. Again, safety and efficiency are the purposes for studying a new station location.