News Summary
A new proposal aims to revive the Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha interurban rail system, known as the Milwaukee Area rail with stops to Racine and Kenosha (MARK). Projected to be operational by 2029, this service will enhance connectivity between these Wisconsin cities and Chicago. With crucial federal support expected, the MARK line seeks to improve regional transportation and stimulate local economies by providing efficient transit options for residents and visitors alike.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin – A proposal has emerged to revive the Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha interurban rail transit, which originally operated from 1897 until its discontinuation in 1947. The new rail service, known as the Milwaukee Area rail with stops to Racine and Kenosha (MARK), is projected to potentially become operational by 2029, responding to a growing interest in reconnecting these key Wisconsin cities.
The planned MARK line aims to create a seamless transit experience by connecting directly to Union Station in Chicago, providing an efficient transportation link between Wisconsin’s lakeside communities and the greater Chicago area. This proposed service would include planned station stops in downtown Milwaukee, Cudahy, Oak Creek, Racine, Kenosha, and further towards Evanston, Wilmette, and Waukegan, culminating at Union Station.
Federal support will be crucial for this initiative, particularly the attention of the Federal Surface Transportation Board (STB). Recently, the STB approved a trackage use rights application for Chicago Metra on Union Pacific track, a strategic move that lays the groundwork for expanding services. Metra has successfully operated passenger trains for decades, serving as a reliable commuter rail service in the Chicago metropolitan area. If the MARK line is implemented, it is expected that Metra would gain new riders and additional funding, as it extends its reach to Milwaukee.
Establishing passenger service to Racine and Milwaukee appears feasible since Metra currently runs trains to Kenosha. Furthermore, Union Pacific has indicated a focus on developing new freight transportation services, potentially benefiting the region economically by attracting new businesses along the rail line. The revival of this interurban rail service could facilitate enhanced customer pick-up and delivery services, stimulating local economies in both Kenosha and Milwaukee.
Collaboration among key stakeholders, including local transit authorities, Union Pacific, the federal Department of Transportation, and private entities, will be essential to expedite the project. The development of the MARK extension is also expected to complement existing Amtrak services in Wisconsin, presenting an alternative transit option to Amtrak’s Hiawatha service for travelers heading between Chicago and Milwaukee.
To ensure modernity and efficiency, Siemens may be tasked with train-set fabrication from their factory in Sacramento, California. The proposed trains would feature newly designed engines utilizing diesel with kinetic recovery electric storage battery systems, enhancing energy efficiency. Commuter cars would be upgraded to improve passenger comfort during travel, making the journey more enjoyable for riders.
The MARK rail line represents a significant step forward in establishing an advanced technological rail passenger and freight service model within North America. A pressing need exists for fast initiatives that can capture public interest and foster robust partnerships among involved parties. This initiative would aim to provide seamless connectivity for Wisconsin lakeside communities, minimizing the need for trips to downtown Milwaukee.
Experts in the field, including William Hume, a retired civil engineer with knowledge in railroad design, are proponents of this project and advocate for its swift progression. The revival of the Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha rail service is not just a restoration of past transit capabilities but a forward-thinking project anticipated to enhance regional connectivity and invigorate local economies through improved rail service and infrastructure.
In summary, the proposed Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha interurban rail transit, with a target operation date of 2029, stands to transform regional transportation, bolstering economic growth and providing efficient travel solutions for residents and visitors alike in Wisconsin.
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Additional Resources
- BizTimes: Establishing Passenger Rail Service
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee
- Kenosha News: Kenosha’s Interurban Railways
- Google Search: Milwaukee Racine Kenosha interurban rail service
- JSONline: End of Milwaukee’s Rapid Transit
- Google Scholar: Milwaukee Racine Kenosha rail service
- Milwaukee Independent: Timeline of Milwaukee’s Rapid Transit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Milwaukee
- Milwaukee Magazine: KRM Commuter Rail Study
- Google News: Milwaukee Racine Kenosha transportation
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
