DeKalb Rail Project Proposed for Planning Funds

JOLIET – Representative Lauren Underwood announced a proposed $1,200,000 federal funding request to support planning for a Metra rail extension to DeKalb. The request is part of Community Project Funding submissions for fiscal year 2027 and is not guaranteed funding. The proposal would fund environmental studies and development plans for extending service along the Union Pacific West Line from Elburn to DeKalb. Officials said the effort would improve access to transportation for the city, which has not had passenger rail service since 1971.