CSX and CREATE Program Launch First Train Over Forest Hill Flyover

CSX and the CREATE program reached a major milestone on Oct. 15, 2025, as the first train crossed the new Forest Hill Flyover, a transformative project aimed at alleviating decades of rail congestion in Chicago. The flyover elevates CSX tracks above a critical intersection, enhancing efficiency, safety, and reliability for both freight and passenger rail operations.

Part of the 75th Street Corridor Improvement Project, the Forest Hill Flyover is the result of a collaborative effort between public and private partners. By separating CSX tracks from those of BRC, Metra, and Norfolk Southern, the project eliminates a long-standing bottleneck where 30 SouthWest Service Metra trains and 35 freight trains intersect daily along the Western Avenue Corridor. This separation reduces congestion, minimizes delays, and improves service across the region.

The placement of the final girder in July 2025 and the first train movement in October mark a new era for Chicago’s rail infrastructure. The project highlights how innovation and collaboration can drive meaningful progress in one of the nation’s busiest rail hubs.

As trains now roll smoothly over the new structure, CSX and CREATE remain committed to shaping the future of transportation, ensuring a more efficient and reliable rail network for years to come.