UTICA – It’s all aboard the Chicago to Peoria Passenger Rail project. Elected officials met on Thursday in Utica to discuss the findings of the Peoria Passenger Rail Feasibility Study. Just over 31,000 responses were received with over 80% indicating they were very likely to use the service. The preliminary cost to implement the service is estimated at $2.4 billion. Ray LaHood, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation says the plan is to use existing lines with freight rail companies.
LaHood says it could take a decade for the train service to come to fruition. According to the former transportation secretary, no formal discussions have been held with any of the rail freight companies that could potentially be involved.
The North Central Illinois Council of Governments plans to give $310,000 towards continued study in the area. A forecasted ridership is projects five round trips daily.
