CN to invest $170M in Illinois to build capacity and power sustainable growth

Jun 11, 2025

CN announced its plans to invest approximately US$170 million in Illinois, as part of its 2025 capital investment program. This investment will support track maintenance and strategic infrastructure initiatives in the state. This includes investments towards the construction of the Chicago Logistics Hub and projects to upgrade technology and training facilities at CN’s Homewood Campus, as well as network improvements. These projects will help ensure the safe movement of goods and support long-term sustainable growth in Illinois and across CN’s network.

“We believe that investing in our network is about building for the future. Our continued infrastructure investment in Illinois will help strengthen the resiliency and efficiency of our network across the state. Our focus remains on providing exceptional service to our customers and supply chain partners, supporting strong economic growth for North America and across communities where we operate.” - Tracy Robinson, President, and Chief Executive Officer of CN

“CN has been a tremendous community partner across Will County for many years. This announcement today of additional regional investments highlights their commitment to our areas ongoing success.” - Hugh O’Hara, President of the Will County Governmental League

In 2024, CN invested approximately US$234 million in Illinois for track maintenance and key infrastructure initiatives. Highlights of this investment include:

Over USD $54 million for a four-mile siding extension in the Greater Chicago area, boosting corridor capacity by 17%.
More than USD $15 million for new equipment, including the acquisition of 500 intermodal (EMP) containers and a number of vehicles as part of a fleet renewal program to be used in Illinois and across CN’s network.
Approximately USD $10 million to improve intermodal operations and build capacity in the Greater Chicago area.

Illinois in Numbers: