CHICAGO — Service on Metra’s Heritage Corridor was cancelled Monday and Amtrak service was also affected after a Canadian National train derailed near Willow Springs, Ill., earlier in the morning.
Metra was informed at about 3 a.m. of the derailment, which blocked both tracks on the former Gulf, Mobile & Ohio/Illinois Central route, the Chicago Sun-Times reports. All three morning trains between Joliet and Chicago were cancelled, as were Amtrak Lincoln Service trains No. 300 from St. Louis and No. 301 from Chicago. Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari says other Amtrak trains that use the route — the Texas Eagle and six other Lincoln Service trains — will detour over the Metra Rock Island District between Chicago and Joliet and will experience some delays.
CN spokesman Jonathan Abecassis says five cars ended up on their side as a result of the derailment; one of the cars was carrying a plastic resin, leading to a small leak that has since been contained. No hazardous materials were involved and no danger to public safety resulted.
Metra has subsequently cancelled evening trips on the Heritage Corridor, as well. Passengers should check the Metra website for news on resumption of service.
— Updated at 10:55 a.m. CST with information on Amtrak, cancellation of afternoon Heritage Corridor Metra service; updated at 12:55 p.m. with details on derailment from CN; updated at 3 p.m. with photo of derailment.
