Double Track

· Project Development. The FTA approved NICTD's request to enter into the project development process in 2016. The project development process included an environmental review that included completing environmental studies, developing and reviewing alternatives, and identifying a locally preferred alternative. The Environmental Assessment is available at: After reviewing public comments and identifying measures to mitigation impacts, the FTA issued a Finding of No Significant Impact in November 2018.

• FTA approved the Double Track project to enter the Engineering phase of the project and provided a positive project Rating (Medium-High) on February 11, 2020.

· Engineering. The project team completed the project design in 2020 and requested a Full Funding Grant Agreement from the FTA. The Double Track NWI project received its Full Funding Grant Agreement from the Federal Transit Administration in January 2021, allowing NICTD to proceed with real estate acquisition and advertise the project for construction bids. Real Estate acquisition is nearly complete.

· Construction. Construction began in 2021 and ended in April 2024. This was a Design-Bid-Build project. NICTD issued invitations for bid on three demolition contracts and seven construction contracts. FTA provided oversight throughout the construction process.