Show me the Land of Lincoln: The St. Louis-Chicago Amtrak

The Lincoln Service of the Amtrak, the route between Chicago to St. Louis, traverses 284 miles of the rolling hills of Southern Illinois: galloped by horses, nourished by farmland, and preserved by woodland. This rail service is in the midst of a several year project to make improvements to the route, and operate more high speed trains.

Several years behind Europe in increasing the efficiency of train transportation, particular areas of the route already have trains speeding along at 110 mph.  In an effort to move speeds up to 125 mph and reduce the commute between the two Midwest cities to approximately 3 hours, there is a Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) evaluation being conducted.

“The 16-month Tier 1 EIS will identify and evaluate improvements needed to accommodate higher speed (125 mph maximum) trains and additional daily round trips. Higher speed trains would reduce travel time, increase service reliability and enhance safety. The Tier 1 EIS is separate from the construction currently taking place along the corridor”

The EIS is a mandatory evaluation that considers the impact of the rail service on the natural environment, the impact on surrounding communities, and the archaeological record at stake. After careful examination, the EIS will purpose the best options for the project’s continuance to the Federal Railroad Administration and the project can move forward from there.

Originally hoping for the first trains to run in 2014, the expected dates are now pushing back to 2016 for the high speed rail service. These pioneering American efforts will forge the Midwest cities as top travel destinations for international visitors.

Written by Ciara Brewer on behalf of Monica Brewer

Midwest Treks

Midwest cities have a large unfair advantage: close proximity to some of the most beautiful natural wonders of our country. A mere 20 minute drive out of St. Louis and you are embalmed by the indescribable scent of fresh air, cascades of green, and crisp waterways. Rolling hills fence in the city awaiting adventurers and serenity-seekers alike. It is the prime real estate for weekend getaways, day trips, or longer explorations of the natural landscapes.

Take a relaxing hike or hit the mountain bike trails for an afternoon at Castlewood state park:

Located on the Meramac river with scenic bluffs, broad meadows, winding trails, a bird sanctuary and plush St. Louis history, this is a great place for a day trip with or without the family. http://mostateparks.com/park/castlewood-state-park

Take a weekend to canoe the 11 point river:

This vast river winds through the Missouri Ozarks and offers access to caves, waterfalls and a natural fed spring. With several launch points, make it as short or long as you would like. Explore the Ozarks in their most pristine form, watching the sunset on the river with nothing but the beautiful surroundings of nature, your loved ones, and the unique wildlife.
http://www.11pointcanoe.com/

Or voyage northbound to camp at Devil’s Lake, Wisconsin

Located near Baraboo Wisconsin, Devil’s Lake offers miles of hiking, swimming, rock climbing...

not to mention the  remnants from the Ice Age Midwest glacier. http://www.devilslakewisconsin.com/

The state parks are well maintained and equipped to entertain everyone from the city slicker to the outdoor novice. Where will you be enjoying your prime real estate this summer?

Written by Ciara Brewer, Photographed by Rachel Broaddus on behalf of Monica Brewer