An analysis examining possible operating plans and preliminary costs for a passenger rail line connecting Chicago to Fort Wayne and Columbus is on track to be complete by the last quarter of 2017.

HNTB, the contractor hired to complete the study, provided an update on the work during a recent meeting of passenger rail stakeholders hosted by Northern Indiana Passenger Rail Association (NIPRA). The analysis, formally called the Alternatives Analysis and Public Involvement Process, is required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) under federal law in order to begin the rail project.

Once complete, the analysis could position the project for federal funding of design and construction of the passenger rail line. Supporters of passenger rail are optimistic limited service could begin by 2020.

As part of the work, HNTB will recommend the most efficient and effective route, operating speeds, train frequency, and station sites, as well as estimate ridership rates and possible revenue. Cost of the analysis is just under $350,000 and is being paid for with funding from cities and businesses along the corridor.

“We are making great progress in our efforts to return passenger rail to Fort Wayne and northern Indiana and northwest Ohio,” said Geoff Paddock, longtime NIPRA member and Fort Wayne City Council member. “This passenger rail line will boost economic development efforts by connecting people and businesses throughout the region and it will enhance the quality of life for area residents.”

Also during the meeting, representatives from the Indiana Department of Transportation and the Illinois Department of Transportation presented updates on passenger rail initiatives across the two states. Representatives from the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission announced that more than $300,000 has been committed by local Ohio communities along the line to complete the same type of Alternative Analysis and Public Involvement Process study for the Ohio side of the corridor.

The Chicago-Fort Wayne-Columbus corridor would provide high-quality passenger rail connections to 100 Midwest cities through a regional rail network that offers safe, comfortable and reliable service with amenities such as Wi-Fi and food service. Initial plans are for trains to travel at a maximum speed of approximately 75 miles per hour and eventually travel at 110 miles per hour. In many communities along the route, scheduled stops would take place at existing historic train stations, such as the Baker Street Train Station, 221 W. Baker St. More information about the Chicago-Fort Wayne-Columbus passenger rail can be found online at www.niprarail.org.