A group of Chicago business leaders has announced plans for the O'Hare Flyer, an electric train that would run non-stop between downtown Chicago's West Loop and O'Hare's Terminal 2. The route would use existing freight rail lines owned by CSX, Canadian National, and Union Pacific, stitched together to create the express service. Organizers have signed a letter of intent with CSX and say talks with the other railroads are underway.
The trip is planned to take 15 minutes, with trains departing every 15 minutes. A Chicago Tribune editorial estimates fares around $25 to $35 per rider, well above the $2.50 fare on the existing CTA Blue Line, which is slower and makes more stops. This is a privately funded project, and organizers say they are not seeking public transit subsidies that could otherwise support agencies like the CTA or Metra. The group also has an agreement with local building trades unions and expects the project to create union construction jobs.
For homeowners, this isn't an energy-efficiency program or rebate opportunity, so there's nothing to act on for your own house. It's mainly relevant if you live in the Chicago area and care about transportation options or nearby development. The first trains aren't expected to run until around 2030, and the group is still in early talks with public officials, businesses, and community groups to move the plan forward.
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