South Shore Line airport terminal move on hold after rejected federal funds
SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Plans to slash travel times between South Bend and downtown Chicago to 90 minutes have hit a roadblock after federal officials denied a critical $56 million grant for the South Shore Line.
Local partners had previously committed $56 million to relocate the rail terminal at the South Bend International Airport from the east side to the west side. The move was designed to cut the travel time between South Bend and Chicago from two hours down to just 90 minutes, with local leaders seeking matching federal funds to cover the remaining half of the estimated $112 million project.
However, transit leaders received word that the funding application was unsuccessful, marking a second recent setback in grant funding cycles.
Jeff Rea, president and CEO of the South Bend Regional Chamber, expressed frustration over the decision while emphasizing the economic importance of the rail link.
"For us to be connected to the third largest economy in the country is pretty significant, and to have sort of that daily option is great," Rea said.
South Shore Line officials said in a statement that they are disappointed by the delay but are continuing to push forward with complete engineering plans backed by strong local support. The transit district is currently meeting with federal regulators to refine its application for future grant cycles, though officials note that delays could ultimately drive-up project costs.
Logistical hurdles also contribute to the project's multi-million-dollar price tag. A significant portion of the budget stems from where the new tracks will cross Lincolnway, necessitating the construction of an overpass or underpass to avoid disrupting local traffic.
For the everyday commuters who rely on the corridor the delay is a frustrating setback. Despite the hurdle, local officials and transit advocates remain hopeful that the project will gain federal approval in future funding rounds to strengthen regional connectivity.