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FTA Official Says Metra Union Pacific West Line Delivered On Time and Within Budget
The federally funded Metra Union Pacific West Line is a model public transportation project, Deputy Federal Transit Administrator Sandy Bushue said, noting that the 8.5-mile rail extension arrived on time and within budget. Bushue joined House Speaker Dennis Hastert and state and local officials today in celebrating the grand opening of new line.
“This project shows what happens when local officials, with federal guidance and support, commit to delivering transit services that will make a difference for thousands of commuters,” Bushue said.
FTA entered into a multi-year commitment with Metra in 2001, in which the Federal government agreed to provide $81 million in New Starts funding for the $135 million project.
The extension from Geneva to Elburn, which includes two new stations at LaFox and Elburn, 600 new parking spaces, and a new overnight train storage yard, is expected to carry 3,900 daily riders by 2020. The route extension will ease parking congestion and enhance suburb-to-suburb opportunities.
During the ceremony at the Elburn Village Hall, Bushue stressed the connection between efficient transportation systems and a growing economy. “With public transportation comes economic opportunity and independence,” she said. “Well planned and designed public transit projects improve the customer’s quality of life.”
In addition to the opening of the Union Pacific West Line, the North Central Service Line and the SouthWest Service Line will begin service this week. Bushue praised Metra for completing all three projects on budget and on time.
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