CHICAGO (WBBM Newsradio) – A proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern could increase delays at more than 50 railroad crossings in northeastern Illinois, disrupt passenger rail service and worsen air quality, regional planners warn.
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning outlined the concerns in a recent memo, urging federal regulators to require protections as they review a proposal that would create the nation’s first transcontinental railroad.
Railroad estimates cited by CMAP show freight traffic could increase by about five trains daily between Geneva and Northlake and nearly 14 trains daily between Northlake and Chicago’s West Side. Trains also would be longer, increasing the potential for crossing delays and collisions, the agency said.
CMAP identified six frequently blocked crossings in Chicago, Maywood, Winfield and Geneva. It recommended requiring the railroads to help pay for bridges or underpasses at key locations.
Additional freight traffic could also slow Metra’s Union Pacific Northwest, Heritage Corridor and SouthWest Service lines, along with Amtrak routes out of Chicago. CMAP asked regulators to obtain more information about those effects and recommended zero-emission locomotives, reduced engine idling and air quality monitoring.
Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern argue the merger would improve shipping efficiency and strengthen competition. Union Pacific spokesperson Robynn Tysver said it would remove more than 2 million truckloads from roads, easing highway congestion.
U.S. Sens. Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin of Illinois have raised concerns that the merger could eliminate railroad jobs, reduce competition and increase shipping costs. Union Pacific disputes those claims.
Public comments are due Nov. 18. An environmental review is underway, and the U.S. Surface Transportation Board is expected to hold a public hearing in spring 2027 before issuing a decision.
