South Shore Line Service Resumes After Derailment

Regular service on the South Shore Line will resume Friday following a freight train derailment near East Chicago on June 24. The disruption led to bus substitutions between the Hammond Gateway and East Chicago stations. This substitution will conclude with the last train on Thursday, according to the railroad.

The derailment damaged the catenary system on the Grand Calumet River Bridge, which provides power to the line’s freight cars. Workers have been repairing these overhead lines to restore the South Shore Line’s functionality.

The incident resulted in an estimated $750,000 cost for the railroad, as stated by Nicole Barker, the Chief Experience and Engagement Officer. The first train to operate on the regular schedule will be eastbound Train 401, departing from Carroll Avenue Station in Michigan City at 3:50 a.m. on Friday.

Since the derailment, trains have been running on a weekend and holiday schedule. Additional early rush hour trains have been operating from Munster/Dyer on the Monon Corridor route.

The June 24 accident involved 13 cars of an empty South Shore Freight coal train tipping over on the Grand Calumet River Bridge. The mishap caused significant damage to the bridge’s supports and the overhead power lines. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. New parts needed fabrication and installation to address these damages.

David Dech, President of the South Shore Line, expressed gratitude in a news release. He thanked the crews, Iron Workers Local 395, Operations Local 150, DLZ, and Superior Construction teams for their hard work in safely completing the repairs. Dech also acknowledged the passengers for their patience during this period.

Doug Ross reported this story as a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.