WisDOT Awards Millions to Improve Rail Service Between Milwaukee and Chicago

MILWAUKEE, Wis (Civic Media) — An increase in rail service is moving along in the Dairy State with a $72.8 million federal grant awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.  The money will be used to improve rail capacity and potentially expand Amtrak service between Milwaukee and Chicago.

The funding will support the Muskego Yard bypass project, an effort to upgrade and reconfigure routes to reduce congestion between commuter and freight trains.

The project includes creating a two-track mainline for freight trains to bypass the Milwaukee Intermodal Station, minimizing delays and freeing up tracks.

The changes will allow for an increase from seven to eight daily round trips on Amtrak’s Hiawatha Service between Milwaukee and Chicago. 

The grant will also fund the replacement or rehabilitation of five bridges along the route.

WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman called the project pivotal, stating, “The future of rail in Wisconsin hinges on a successful Muskego Yard bypass project.”

WisDOT aims to implement the expanded service by 2026, coinciding with the completion of the Milwaukee Airport Rail Station project.