Hi to all.
Would anyone know if the gap in triple tracking between the east side of West Chicago thru to, the triple track on the west side side of Geneva? If they do this this will the bridge crossing the Geneva Il river have to be rebuilt or whoud it handle another set of tracks.
Thanks, Conrad
The river bridge pillars appear to be wide enough for at least one more track on the south side, which is where a 3rd track would go. The actual bridge and track work would have to be all new. And then there’s of course always the question if the existing pillars can indeed support another track, based on age and possible damage or deterioration.
It is an old structure, but sound. One can see two trains crossing the bridge at times since between UP freight and Metra scoots, the line is very busy. Carl (retired CNW) might know the age.
All I can say is that it’s before my time! [;)]
Actually, the piers have room for another bridge just like the current one–so they could accommodate four tracks if needed (I’m sure anything built there will be only one added track and make it impossible for more, though). UP will make use of those piers as a good starting point, and reinforce them as necessary–probably a lot less costly than starting over.
The new bridge being built to carry Illinois Highway 38 over the tracks has plenty of room underneath it for a third track and probably an access road.
There are issues with bridges to be resolved before a third track can be put in, though. The right-of-way underneath the overpass at Randall Road is definitely too narrow for more than two tracks, and, at the west end of the two-track stretch, the bridge taking Keslinger and Peck Roads over the tracks (built not that long ago!) won’t be able to fit three tracks underneath, either.