What we know about the Amtrak problem at Union Station – and what it means for Metra riders
Metra informed people who left Union Station to consider alternative commutes, since an Amtrak signal problem that disturbed the morning trip was not resolved during the evening rate.
Union Station on Thursday night was jammed with commuters waiting for trains. Eighty-six Metra trains are currently affected, with delays of up to three hours. Amtrak trains are also delayed.
What happened?
Signal problems with the automated system controlling trains from Union Station have forced officials to use manual controls. Workers are trying to restore the signaling system.
A message on Metra's website was blunt: "Customers for all CUS lines should expect extensive delays and distress and should consider alternative transport if possible."
Who is affected?
If you take the train from Union Station, this affects you. Meters s BNSF, Milwaukee District West and Milwaukee District North, Heritage Corridor, North Central and SouthWest all have significant delays. Amtrak has been hit too. All in all, over 60,000 people may be looking for another way home Thursday evening.
What is the alternative?
Metra said, "BNSF will operate" cargo and go "service, with trains not running a set schedule, but as soon as they are filled to capacity, all stops between Union Station and Downers Grove Main Street or any stop Downers Grove Main Street and Aurora. Customers should consider using alternative transportation, such as UP West Line. Incoming service will be extremely limited. "
Some riders who usually use the Milwaukee District West line may possibly use Union Pacific the line to the western suburbs, which travels out of Ogilvie Station. The Rock Island line may be an option for some Heritage Corridor passengers, as well as some SouthWest service passengers.
CTA said it would be Metra pass.
What about Uber and Lift?
If the road home is a trip sharing trip, be prepared to pay. The cost of a lift trip from Chicago downtown to Glenview was close to $ 1[ads1]00 around 5pm, up from about $ 40 around 3pm. A trip to Naperville costs close to $ 100 at 15:45, up from about $ 70 at 3pm. There are also traditional taxis.
When should the service be restored?
At 17.00, Metra said it was unclear. But even after the system has been restored, delays are likely, said Metra.
