South Shore Line Resumes Regular Service After Derailment Repairs

Regular service on the South Shore Line will recommence on Friday. This follows the June 24 freight train derailment near East Chicago. The substitute busing between the Hammond Gateway and East Chicago stations will conclude with the last train on Thursday, according to the railroad company.

The derailment involved a South Shore Freight train at the Grand Calumet River Bridge. Thirteen empty coal cars tipped, damaging supports and overhead wires crucial for powering passenger trains. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. New parts had to be manufactured and installed for repairs.

The use of buses during this disruption has cost the railroad an estimated $750,000, as stated by Chief Experience and Engagement Officer Nicole Barker. The first train returning to the regular schedule will be Train 401, departing from Carroll Avenue Station in Michigan City at 3:50 a.m. on Friday.

Since the derailment, trains have followed a weekend and holiday schedule with additional early rush hour services from Munster/Dyer via the Monon Corridor.

“We thank the South Shore Line crews, Iron Workers Local 395, Operations Local 150, DLZ and Superior Construction for their efforts in making these repairs safely and quickly,” South Shore Line President David Dech said. “We also appreciate our passengers’ patience during this difficult period.”