The partnership between the University of Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation and a special advisory group will carry out the US$1.25m (£765,000) study. It is due to report late next year and is designed to complement the ongoing construction of a regional 110-mph network that will connect Chicago to 40 cities in the Midwest.
“Illinois is leading the nation with our work to expand high-speed and passenger rail,” said Quinn. “This study will provide greater insight into how we can make a 220mph rail service a reality.”
The study will explore the potential costs and benefits of establishing a 220mph service between O’Hare International Airport, downtown Chicago, McCormick Place, and Champaign-Urbana. It will also look at extending the corridor in the region to cities south of Champaign-Urbana, including St Louis and Indianapolis.
In addition to offering route recommendations, the study will produce estimated passenger projections, economic impacts, construction costs and financing options. An advisory group composed of transportation experts, rail advocates, union leaders, and regional planners will provide input during the course of the study.
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