Illinois Rail Infrastructure: $50.6B Plan Boosts Passenger, Freight

Illinois unveils its largest-ever $50.6 billion infrastructure plan, with $2.9 billion earmarked for crucial freight and passenger **rail** improvements across the state’s network. This significant investment supports the **railway sector**.

Illinois Rail Infrastructure: $50.6B Plan Boosts Passenger, Freight
October 4, 2025 2:54 am
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Introduction

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation unveiled a $50.6 billion, six-year infrastructure plan this week, marking the largest program of its kind in the state’s history.

Program Overview

The Fiscal-Year 2026-31 Proposed Highway and Multimodal Improvement Program encompasses all transportation modes and all of Illinois’ 102 counties. It includes investments in roads and bridges, aviation, transit, freight and passenger rail, waterways, and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. The $50.6 billion budget exceeds the previous record of $41.4 billion established last year.

Funding Allocation

The program allocates specific funding amounts to various sectors. Transit will receive $13.8 billion, while freight and passenger rail will be allocated $2.9 billion. Ports and waterways are slated for $200 million in investment.

Rail Network Details

Illinois boasts a rail network comprising 9,982 miles of railroad tracks. Of this total, 7,792 miles are operated by Class I railroads, primarily BNSF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad.

Community Support

A new addition to this year’s multiyear program is $400 million allocated through a special legislative appropriation. This funding, signed into law by Governor Pritzker, aims to address local transportation needs, with particular consideration given to disadvantaged or economically distressed communities.

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Conclusion

The new infrastructure program, totaling $50.6 billion over six years, represents the largest investment in Illinois’ transportation infrastructure to date. It will distribute funds across various transportation modes and prioritize community needs.

Company Summary

BNSF Railway: A Class I railroad operating a significant portion of the rail network in Illinois.

Union Pacific Railroad: Another Class I railroad operating a significant portion of the rail network in Illinois.

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