The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has earmarked $354.6 million in grant funds to aid the largest public transit investment in Indiana’s history.
“This $354.6 million federal infrastructure grant will better connect Northern Indiana residents to jobs, education and critical services,” Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao said.
Indiana officials said the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD) West Lake Corridor Project is funded through a mix of federal, state, and local dollars and is expected to cost nearly $945 million.
Construction is slated to be completed in late 2024, with passenger service starting in early 2025, resulting in enhanced transportation options for Lake County, Indiana, residents traveling to downtown Chicago and South Bend International Airport, in addition to reducing travel time and spurring economic development.
“FTA is proud to join our partners in northern Indiana to improve public transportation and support economic recovery,” FTA Deputy Administrator K. Jane Williams said. “Commuters on the South Shore Line can now look forward to faster and more efficient transit service connecting them to major employers in Chicago, enhancing opportunities for Lake County residents while encouraging economic development locally.”
The work scope includes a 7.8-mile southern extension of the NICTD’s existing South Shore Line (SSL) commuter rail service between Dyer and Hammond in Indiana, with four new stations.
Sen. Todd Young (R-IN) said the funding allotment results from efforts made over the last several years.
“The West Lake Corridor Project will bolster job creation and economic growth in Northwest Indiana,” he said. “I’m extremely proud of what this commuter rail project will mean for Indiana, and I look forward to seeing its advancement in coming months.”