Metra, the rail service providing public transit in the Chicago area, announced it has renegotiated the terms of a new contract with BNSF Railway to extend commuter rail service for another 10 years.
The announcement is the latest development in the long-standing relationship between the railroad and the commuter rail system that dates back to Metra’s creation in 1983.
“BNSF is proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Metra through this new agreement, which strengthens a relationship built over decades of collaboration,” BNSF Assistant VP of Passenger Operations Jim Tylick said. “Just as our freight network keeps goods moving across the country, we believe passenger rail plays a vital role in keeping people connected to the places and opportunities that matter most. We’re excited to continue shaping the future together with Metra through sustainable transportation solutions.”
The agreement includes a five-year term starting April 1, 2026, with an automatic five-year extension unless either party elects to terminate the agreement. Commuter rail service runs on the BNSF-operated line seven days a week.
“Metra and BNSF have been collaborative partners for decades, working together to make sure residents of communities along the line are well-served with safe, reliable, fast, and affordable service,” Metra Executive Director/CEO Jim Derwinski said. “We are happy to lock in our working relationship with this fair agreement for another decade and look forward to continuing to deliver for BNSF riders.”