The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will host the last open house tomorrow to answer questions about the high-speed rail project between St. Louis and Chicago.
The public meetings, which began March 1, are aimed at answering questions about a recent environmental study. The study evaluates the impact of adding a second track to the high-speed route.
IDOT spokesman Josh Kauffman says the department has been pleased with turnout so far and has gotten positive feedback from the public.
Kauffman said the meetings have brought residents, representatives and railroad workers together and have helped IDOT and the FRA pinpoint concerns and potential issues.
While the study looks at the potential environmental impact, Kauffman says there will be a social impact, like growth in hotels and foot-traffic, from the construction as well.
The construction, as well as the environmental impact study, is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Tomorrow’s hearing is from 4-7 at the Alton Holiday Inn.
