As the community may have seen covered in the press over the last year, the State of Illinois has selected Metra to operate intercity passenger rail service from Chicago to Rockford (https://chicagotorockfordrail.org/). This service will utilize the Union Pacific tracks through Gilberts and the project is currently in the design, field review and stakeholder coordination phase (2023 - 2026). On July 16, 2024, the Village Board will hear from project consultants from WSP to review the project design elements including:
A) Discussion pertaining to the railroad’s plan regarding the crossings within Gilberts
B) Fencing along the railroad route within Gilberts; and
C) Impact on the existing parking lot at Waitcus Park, which is on railroad right-of-way.
The presentation will focus on proposed and required design elements and what the impact will be on the Village, and will be an opportunity for the Village to continue engagement with the project.
