Chicago's Metra Introduces Bikes On Trains Initiative

CHICAGO, IL (BRAIN)--On June 1, passengers with bicycles began boarding non-rush hour weekday and weekend Metra trains that service northeastern Illinois.

Metra's Bikes on Trains initiative also includes reverse-commute trains. Two bicycles are allowed in the priority seating area in each accessible rail car at no additional charge.

Bringing bikes on Metra trains creates a transportation alternative for residents in the counties of Cook, DuPage, Lake, Will, McHenry and Kane. While the 495-mile Metra system provides significant rail service in Chicagoland, people often times have difficulties making connections to their destination or from their point of origin. Using a bicycle for these travel segments in conjunction with Metra trains allows many people to leave their cars at home.

Metra's Bikes on Trains initiative will also open up recreational cycling for many people without adding more cars to the already congested roadways in northeastern Illinois. Cyclists will be able to visit many of Chicagoland's multi-use trails from Chicago's Lakefront Trail in the east to the Fox River Trail in the west by using Metra trains.

The Chicagoland Bicycle Federation has been advocating for this service for many years and worked with Metra to develop the program.