Built in 1909, the Kensington Interlocking is a critical connection point for the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District’s (NICTD) commuter rail service into Chicago. As ridership increased over time, this historic junction became a significant bottleneck that created delays for thousands of daily riders. To improve reliability and reduce congestion, NICTD advanced a $21.2 million program to modernize the interlocking’s layout, enhance performance and support smoother commuter rail operations across the region.
What challenges did STV address?
The aging interlocking could no longer accommodate growing train volumes efficiently, resulting in operational conflicts that slowed service. Improving the junction required threading new rail infrastructure across four Canadian National (CN) freight tracks and connecting to four Metra mainline tracks. Coordinating access across multiple railroads, managing construction staging and updating critical systems within an active, heavily used corridor introduced significant logistical and technical challenges.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV provided construction management, program management and project controls support while overseeing the delivery of complex upgrades. The team coordinated track outages, improved the track and overhead catenary system and modernized key elements of the signal system. STV also facilitated communication among NICTD, CN, Metra and the contractor team to ensure safe, efficient construction across intersecting freight and commuter rail territories.
How does this project benefit the region?
With the improvements in place, the Kensington Interlocking now operates more smoothly, reducing delays and creating a more reliable commuting experience for millions of passengers each year. The modernization strengthens a vital transportation link that supports economic activity and daily mobility across the Chicago region.
Key stats and accolades
- New route spanning four CN freight tracks and four Metra main tracks
- Upgraded signal, track and overhead catenary systems
- Improved reliability for thousands of daily commuter rail users
