News Summary
Milwaukee is poised for the revival of its historic interurban rail system, the Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha (MARK) line, with plans for a high-tech commuter service set to launch in 2029. This new route aims to connect Milwaukee with Chicago, enhancing regional transit. Recent approval from the Federal Surface Transportation Board is paving the way for this ambitious project, which focuses on sustainability and advanced technology to provide a modern travel experience. Collaboration with local transit agencies and stakeholders is vital for the project’s success.
Milwaukee is set to see a revitalization of its historic interurban rail system, the Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha (MARK) line, which previously operated from 1897 to 1947, as plans gain momentum for a launch in 2029. A high-technology commuter rail line, connecting Milwaukee to Union Station in Chicago with stops in Racine and Kenosha, is being proposed with the intention of enhancing regional transit options.
Key to this initiative is the Federal Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) approval and oversight. Recently, the STB approved Chicago Metra’s application for trackage use rights on Union Pacific track, which is crucial for facilitating the MARK project. This approval comes as Metra has been successfully operating passenger trains on Union Pacific lines for decades, supporting substantial commuter transport across the Chicagoland area. By extending its services to Milwaukee, Metra would not only introduce new riders but also secure additional funding to support operations.
The development of passenger services to Racine and Milwaukee appears to be highly feasible, given that Metra already operates trains to Kenosha. Union Pacific, known for its freight transportation services, is simultaneously expanding its business in Wisconsin, creating a timely opportunity for the MARK project. Collaboration with Union Pacific’s business development division will play a critical role in ensuring the MARK project’s efficiency and likelihood of success.
The proposed route for the MARK service aims to include station stops from downtown Milwaukee to Cudahy, Oak Creek, Racine, and Kenosha before continuing to Evanston, Wilmette, and Waukegan, eventually terminating at Union Station in Chicago. This planned infrastructure is anticipated to offer year-round, weatherproof travel options, enhancing connectivity between Wisconsin and Illinois.
Train cars for the MARK line could potentially be manufactured by Siemens at their facility in Sacramento, California. These new diesel engines would feature advanced technology, incorporating kinetic recovery electric storage battery boosts to improve energy efficiency. Additionally, the newly designed commuter cars are expected to prioritize passenger comfort to create a more appealing travel experience.
The MARK project is not just about transportation; it also represents an opportunity to integrate cutting-edge technology into North American rail services. As part of its development strategy, there is a strong focus on gaining public support and involvement from municipal transit divisions and private stakeholders, to ensure a collaborative approach to the project. Development initiatives will require cooperation from transit commissions, federal departments, and engineering firms, focusing on both commuter and freight transportation aspects.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, the MARK plans to construct climate-friendly stations situated along the route, further promoting an environmentally conscious approach to regional transit. This initiative is poised to provide residents in Wisconsin’s lakeside communities alternate routes to Chicago, removing the necessity of navigating through downtown Milwaukee.
The MARK project identifies itself as a vital asset to regional connectivity and convenience in transport, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable transit solutions within the region. With support from local stakeholders and the meticulous planning underway, the new interurban rail line may soon become an attractive option for commuters and travelers in the area.
William Hume, a retired civil engineer and land surveyor with expertise in railroad design, is among the advocates of this reconstruction effort. His background lends credibility to the technical aspects of the project, reinforcing confidence in the feasibility of establishing a modern, effective commuter rail service.
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Additional Resources
- BizTimes: Establishing Passenger Rail Service
- Kenosha News: Old Kenosha Interurban Railways
- JSONLine: The End of Milwaukee’s Rapid Transit
- Milwaukee Independent: Timeline of Rapid Transit
- Wikipedia: General Knowledge
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.
