Double Track

Bringing Indiana to Chicago

The existing South Shore Line (SSL) provides a vital transportation link that connects Northwest Indiana to Chicago. The SSL proposes to expand the SSL from single track to double track between Gary and Michigan City and construct, signal, power, and platform improvements at five passenger stations.

In May 2014, the South Shore Line (as the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District) adopted a 20-year Strategic Business Plan. This Plan details proposed improvements to the South Shore Line traveling approximately 25 miles through Lake, Porter and La Porte Counties, and the communities of Gary, Portage, Ogden Dunes, Dune Acres, Beverly Shores, Pines and Michigan City, Indiana. The project’s main component is to add a second track to the single track route, and move the street-running tracks along 10th and 11th Streets in Michigan City. This will allow the SSL to add 14 weekday trains for more frequent service, reduce delays and improve travel times.

Video created and produced by Group 7even and TFF Productions

The Federal Transit Administration executed a Full Funding Grant Agreement in January 2021, awarding $172,964,241 to the project. It is anticipated that the FTA’s Capital Investment Grant New Starts Program will provide approximately 26% percent of the Project’s capital cost. The non-New Starts costs will be covered by a combination of funding sources, including the State of Indiana, Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority, American Rescue Plan, and local counties and communities.

For more information on the FTA’s New Starts program and process, visit: https://www.transit.dot.gov/funding/grant-programs/capital-investments/about-program.

Double Track

Connectivity

Bringing Indiana to Chicago