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 underway and will continue through early 2022.

· Construction. (We are here). This is a Design-Bid-Build project. NICTD issued invitations for bid on three demolition contracts and seven construction contracts. Construction began in 2021 for some smaller contracts; the main construction for the project is expected to begin in March 2022. FTA will continue to provide oversight throughout the construction process and preparation to begin the expanded Double Track service in 2024.