IL HR0252

Urges the Illinois Department of Transportation and High Speed Railroad Commission to develop a Statewide Integrated Network Plan combining high-speed rail and regional rail services across Illinois.

Plan must identify desired service points, key transfer stations, theoretical rail and bus schedules with timed transfers, and ridership/revenue models for the proposed network.

Requires estimation of needed infrastructure investments and development of a phased implementation plan to expedite construction and reduce capital expenses.

Emphasizes that Metra's conversion to Regional Rail using "memory schedules" (consistent hourly arrivals and departures) would provide foundation for future 220 mph high-speed rail lines.

Highlights federal funding availability for rail network expansion and notes that a unified approach would create statewide benefits by connecting downstate communities to Chicago, universities, and O'Hare International Airport.