History
The railroad between Chicago and Aurora was originally constructed by the Chicago and Aurora Railroad (later merging in to the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad) in 1864. The CB&Q operated the commuter service until the railroad became part of the Burlington Northern in 1970. Burlington Northern merged with Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in 1995, and the name of the new railroad became Burlington Northern Santa Fe. The railroad has now been renamed to simply BNSF.
With its three tracks and fast and frequent Amtrak and Metra passenger trains plus many BNSF freight trains, this line earned the nickname "The Racetrack" (though even 79 mph has not been allowed for many years).
The Clyde station, at South Austin Boulevard and West 29th Street in Cicero, was closed on April 1, 2007, due to low ridership and its dilapidated condition. At time of closing, it was only used by about 50 passengers a day.
Read more about this topic: BNSF Railway Line
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