Metra Burlington Northern trains running, but schedule in flux

A construction crane that fell on the tracks of Metra's BNSF line halted serviced for almost the entire Wednesday afternoon, and caused continued delays through the night.

Metra officials do not expect any residual delays Thursday and plan on returning to normal scheduled service the morning.

The crane fell on the tracks just west of Cass Avenue in Westmont around 11:50 a.m. Wednesday while workers were erecting a signal bridge, Deputy Fire Chief Jim Connolly said.

Metra officials were advising riders to be flexible and expect changes in regular departure and arrival times. Trains started moving around 4:47 p.m.

“We anticipate that there will be some delays throughout the remainder of the evening,” a Metra statement said. “We are encouraging passengers to come to Chicago Union Station as service has resumed and trains are running. Please note that service will not run at a normal schedule. When you arrive at the station please listen for updated service announcements.” The BNSF is one of Metra's busiest lines and operates multiple express trains during rush hour.