Trains in Illinois will run at speeds up to 110 miles per hour after federal approval to increase the maximum speed from 90 mph.

Amtrak – the USA‘s National Railroad Passenger Corporation – has announced that alongside the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), it has received federal approval for maximum speeds up to 110 mph for most of the Chicago-St. Louis corridor, primarily between the Amtrak stations in Joliet and Alton. Until now, 90 mph has been the maximum authorised speed on the tracks owned by Union Pacific Railroad. Amtrak operates Lincoln Service and other trains under a contract with IDOT.

This will help establish shorter schedules for the four Amtrak Lincoln Service round-trips and the Texas Eagle. The timetable will not change at this time for the ten daily Amtrak trains on the route.

Volunteers are giving safety presentations, which are arranged by the Illinois coordinator for Operation Lifesaver.

Amtrak is advising motorists, pedestrians and cyclists to always use caution on this important rail corridor, as trains are faster than they might appear and are quieter than ever.

• Only use designated public crossings.
• Never disregard flashing crossing signals or go around lowered gates or trespass on railroad property.
• If there is a problem or emergency on or near railroad tracks, the railroad company can be contacted immediately utilizing the telephone number on the blue Emergency Notification Sign located at every crossing.
• See Stay Off The Tracks for more.

Special equipment has been installed as part of IDOT’s Chicago to St. Louis High Speed Rail Project, and monitors the trains and traffic control systems, alerting train crews of any potential problems. Additional warning signs and fencing have also been installed in some areas to encourage safety and deter trespassing.

John Oimoen, IDOT Deputy Director, Rails, said “Trains will continue to operate at 110 mph for several weeks without a change in schedule to ensure everything on the system is running properly and to monitor the actual travel time between stations.”

Justin Meko, Amtrak Vice President, Operational Safety, said, “Amtrak, IDOT and the Illinois Commerce Commission work with Operation Lifesaver, an industry-sponsored campaign that educates persons of all ages on how to stay safe around railroad tracks. Now is a great time for schools, companies, and other groups to schedule safety presentations.”