CLASSIC TRACK DIAGRAMS
ILLINOIS CENTRAL
Chicago Terminal Division
Former Illinois Central main line in Chicago area, as it likely existed during 1950's. Information is based on a 1942 track chart, along with notes and observations made during 1970's. Spacing shown between tracks indicates the separate through and commuter tracks, and does not indicate actual spacing between tracks. Route basically included from west to east 2 or 4 or 6 electrified commuter tracks, 2 through passenger tracks, and 2 freight tracks. In 1962, outer two commuter tracks were removed between Roosevelt Road and 51st St. And in 1968, CTC enabled removal of freight tracks north of 67th Street. Signal support structures had remained in place after these projects. Also in 1964, bidirectional signals were installed on the commuter tracks between Kensington and Homewood, apparently economically by lengthening many blocks. In 1977, bidirectional signals were installed on the commuter tracks between Homewood and Richton, at the same time the commuter service was extended south to what now is University Park. And in later years, additional bidirectional signals were installed on the passenger tracks, and signals were removed on many segments of the freight tracks.
