The Illinois High-Speed Rail Commission has initiated design work on a high-speed rail line connecting Chicago and St. Louis, marking a significant step toward revolutionizing transportation in the Midwest. This study aims to explore various route options for electrified trains capable of speeds up to 186 mph, with the goal of reducing travel time between the two cities to under two hours.
Although not yet part of the federal Corridor ID program, the project will follow its guidelines. The study will examine three main route possibilities: existing railroad rights-of-way, highway rights-of-way, and fresh alignments, with a focus on delivering a high-speed rail experience.
Public engagement is a key aspect of this study, with virtual meetings, surveys, and community events planned to gather input. This initiative is seen as a crucial opportunity to demonstrate the benefits of high-speed rail for the entire Midwest, potentially expanding to other cities like Detroit, Minneapolis, and Indianapolis.