Note to the Press: Please include the following statements from local legislators on the recent opening of the new expansion and renovation to the historic South Shore Line, connecting Northwest Indiana to Chicago. The two-year, $650 million project added a second track line between Michigan City and Gary, significantly reducing travel times, and constructed new platforms while improving safety and functionality at existing stations. The project funding came from federal, state and local funds and expanded 26 miles of track in Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties to service 53 trains to and from Chicago.
STATEHOUSE (May 13, 2024) – " This double track line is a strong investment in Northern Indiana and will foster growth in our economy by attracting development and jobs, while better connecting us to each other. It's a great day when we see how the communities coming together will make a wonderful impact now and, in the years, to come," said State Rep. Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point).
"Over the past two years, we've anticipated the completion of the Double Track Northwest Indiana project and I couldn’t be more excited to finally see the ribbon cut. I look forward to this addition providing a more effective and efficient connection between the Region and Chicago, which will also open more opportunities for growth in the area," said State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie), chair of the House Roads and Transportation Committee.
"The Transit Development District concept was built into the legislation to encourage further development around every station. That was the basis for the projected ROI to benefit all Hoosiers around the state. To date, we already have in excess of $500 million committed as a result of the rail expansion," said State Rep. Hal Slager (R-Schererville), author of the legislation to obtain state grants for the double track project.
"This project has been a long time coming, and I'm excited to see it all come to fruition. With this needed expansion, the South Shore Line will strengthen opportunities in the Region and boost our economy, making Northwest Indiana a hub for investments and industry," said State Rep. Ed Soliday (R-Valparaiso), former chair of the House Roads and Transportation Committee and co-author of the legislation to obtain state grants for the double track project.
To learn more about the South Shore Line, visit mysouthshoreline.com.
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State Rep. Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point) represents House District 19,
which includes portions of Lake and Porter counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents House District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
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State Rep. Hal Slager (R-Schererville) represents House District 15,
which includes a portion of Lake County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Ed Soliday (R-Valparaiso) represents House District 4,
which includes a portion of Porter County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
