As a transportation planner involved in the creation of the Regional Transportation Authority in the mid-1970s, I applaud Metra’s recent decision to rename its rail lines. For decades, these lines have carried the names of their historic operators, a practice that no longer aligns with today’s realities, especially now that Metra will be soon taking over the operations of the Union Pacific routes.
To address this, Metra is seeking rider input on two proposed naming systems through a public survey. This move is both timely and necessary, reflecting a shift toward a more logical and user-friendly approach to the region’s transit network.
As one of the authors of the first comprehensive long-range rail plan for the RTA in 1978, I’d like to propose a third approach, one that better honors Chicago’s legacy as a rail hub and the rich history of the region’s subareas.
Instead of the options currently on the table, I suggest naming rail lines based on their historic terminus, significant geographic landmarks, or the cities and villages they serve. This approach would provide clearer geographic context while preserving names that have established recognition and equity with riders. By grounding the names in both history and practicality, we can create a system that is both meaningful and user-friendly.
Commuter rail systems in other cities often use geographic-based names rather than relying solely on colors or numbers. In the New York metropolitan area, for instance, Metro-North has preserved the historic names of its rail lines despite their complex operational histories. The Hudson Line follows the Hudson River, the Harlem Line traces the route of the former New York and Harlem Railroad, and the New Haven Line reflects its origins as part of the New York, New Haven, and Hartford Railroad, which extended to New Haven, Connecticut.
In each case, these historic names provide riders with a clear sense of the regions the lines serve, demonstrating how tradition and practicality can coexist in transit naming.
North Shore Line (formerly Union Pacific North Line): Chicago’s oldest commuter rail line, first operated in 1855; this route has always been known as the North Line, from its early days operated by the Chicago & North Western Railway to its current operation under Union Pacific. Renaming it the North Shore Line reflects its deep connection to the North Shore suburbs and pairs well with the South Shore Line, which does not require renaming.
North Central Line (no change): This line, introduced in 1996 as Chicago’s first new commuter rail route in over 70 years, has built recognition under its current name. Keeping North Central Line preserves that identity.
Fox Lake, McHenry, Elgin, Geneva, Aurora, and Joliet Lines (replacing Milwaukee District, Union Pacific, BNSF, and Rock Island lines): These new names reflect the historic termini of their respective routes, providing riders with a clearer sense of direction and geography. While McHenry is not technically the terminus of the current Union Pacific Northwest Line, this line is widely recognized as McHenry County’s commuter rail service, making it a logical choice.
Heritage Corridor Line (no change): No renaming is needed for this line, as its name already honors its proximity to the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal Heritage Corridor. Many towns along this route have deep historical ties to the canal, making the name both meaningful and geographically relevant.
Orland Park Line (formerly SouthWest Service): The current name, SouthWest Service, is generic and lacks historical or geographical significance. This route originated as a Wabash Railroad operation in 1893, and for much of its history, Orland Park served as its terminus. While the line now extends to Manhattan, Orland Park remains a key destination with three stations, making it a fitting namesake.
Electric Line (no change): The Metra Electric Line holds strong name recognition and equity with riders. Its branches and the Main Line should also retain their existing names to maintain consistency.
By color-coding lines based on their downtown terminals, we can further enhance wayfinding, making Metra’s system even more accessible for both daily commuters and first-time riders. This proposed naming approach not only simplifies navigation but also pays tribute to Chicago’s storied rail history, offering a clearer, more intuitive way to connect riders with the region they call home.
Bruce W. Mainzer is a former mass transit executive in Chicago and New York City and has also worked as a consultant in ground transport and other industries. He retired in 2019.
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