Indiana’s largest transit infrastructure project, the Monon Corridor Commuter Rail Extension, officially opened for service, increasing access to efficient train service between Chicago and several Northwest Indiana communities.

The extension adds eight miles of track to the South Shore Line, connecting the existing Lakeshore Corridor to four new stations in Hammond, Munster, and Dyer. The $945 million design-build project also includes expanded parking and a new maintenance and storage facility to support the additional service.

The Road to Completion

HDR supported the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD) on this project from its beginning in 2016, providing program management, environmental services, engineering, and grant support. This work contributed to NICTD securing a $355 million Federal Transit Administration Capital Investment Grant and completing a nationally recognized Final Environmental Impact Statement.

The firm completed preliminary engineering design ahead of the design-build team selection, after which HDR transitioned to support NICTD with quality assurance, risk management, and project controls.

“The opening of the Monon Corridor Project reflects years of coordinated planning and collaboration,” HDR Global Transit Director Matt Tucker said. “We’re proud to have worked alongside NICTD from the beginning to deliver a transformative project that expands access to regional mobility.”

The HDR Partnership

HDR assisted NICTD with navigating several complex design and environmental challenges, including developing a two‑tiered stormwater retention system to protect the Grand Calumet River and an elevated track alignment designed to avoid impacts to federally protected recreation areas.

The new stations include high‑level platforms for improved accessibility and more efficient boarding.

“The Monon Corridor is a major investment for mobility and a huge win for people in northwest Indiana,” NICTD President Mike Noland said. “It improves access to jobs, healthcare, and special events, reduces congestion, and strengthens the communities we serve. We were proud to welcome riders to this new extension.”