West Chicago station
| Company type | Commuter rail station |
|---|---|
| Industry | Transportation |
| Founded | July 14, 1990 |
| Headquarters | West Chicago , United States |
Area served | West Chicago, Illinois |
| Products | Metra Union Pacific West Line service |
West Chicago station is part of Metra's Union Pacific West Line and is situated within West Chicago, Illinois. It lies from the eastern endpoint of the line at Ogilvie Transportation Center. Within Metra's fare zoning system, this station falls under zone 4. As of the most recent data, it ranks as the 88th busiest out of 236 non-downtown stations, accommodating an average of 586 boardings on weekdays. Typically, inbound services utilize the north side platform, while outbound trains stop at the southern island platform.
Starting February 16, 2024, service includes 51 trains on weekdays—26 inbound and 25 outbound—as well as all 20 scheduled trains on Saturdays and all 18 trains running on Sundays and holidays. One weekday inbound train begins its route at this station.
Located just south of West Chicago City Hall near the Wilson Avenue Bridge, the station comprises two platforms serving three ground-level tracks. The side platform and island platform are divided by two tracks, with an additional track positioned to the south of the island platform. Passengers access the island platform through a tunnel that connects the parking area to the tracks. The station house is unstaffed but includes a waiting room open daily from 5 a.m. until noon on the north side.
History
The initial West Chicago station was part of the main line for the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad, which was absorbed by the Chicago and North Western Railway (C&NW) in 1864. This rail line later became incorporated into Metra during the 1980s following C&NW's succession.
In 1988, plans were announced by the West Chicago City Council to construct a new commuter facility to replace a leased waiting space located in the Community Center. Metra allocated $1.69 million toward building the station, enhancing lighting and drainage systems, and creating parking for 200 vehicles, with $235,000 dedicated specifically to the building itself. The city contributed an additional $25,000 to ensure that the station featured a historic design reminiscent of 19th-century architecture instead of a contemporary style.
The station officially opened on July 14, 1990, aligning with West Chicago's annual "Railroad Days" event that celebrates its rich railroading history.
In 2001, a second parking lot was developed east of the original lot, adding over 170 spaces and effectively doubling commuter parking availability. This expansion aimed to increase ridership and encourage economic growth within downtown West Chicago. The new lot offered daily parking at $1 per day, while the original lot was converted to permit-only use.