BNSF and Metra renew deal for Chicago-Aurora line

The BNSF Metra agreement keeps the Class I freight railroad operating Metra passenger service. The new 10-year deal covers the Chicago area’s busiest commuter corridor. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Why the BNSF Line stands apart on Metra?

BNSF Railway and Metra have entered into a new 10-year agreement. Under it, the freight carrier will continue passenger service between Chicago and Aurora, Illinois.

Commuters know the former Chicago, Burlington & Quincy route as the BNSF Line. It is now the only Metra line still operated by a freight carrier under contract. Until last year, Union Pacific operated the three former Chicago & North Western routes. Still, that arrangement ended when the company withdrew from the agreement.

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How the BNSF Metra agreement is structured?

Meanwhile, the new contract took effect on April 1. It starts with a five-year term and automatic extension. Either party can choose to terminate it.

“BNSF is proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Metra through this new agreement, which strengthens a relationship built over decades of collaboration,” said BNSF Assistant Vice President of Passenger Operations Jim Tylick. “Just as our freight network keeps goods moving across the country, we believe passenger rail plays a vital role in keeping people connected to the places and opportunities that matter most. We’re excited to continue shaping the future together with Metra through sustainable transportation solutions.”

Other commuter services operated by BNSF

Separately, BNSF operates Metrolink commuter trains in California and Sounder in Washington state. Until earlier this year, it also operated Northstar in Minnesota.

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