Expect Metra delays, no closures during NATO summit

Delays but no major closures on Metra lines during May’s NATO summit was the verdict of the U.S. Secret Service Tuesday.

As authorities determine strategies to keep Chicago and the region secure when world leaders gather next month, one option had involved halting operations on train routes going under McCormick Place, where the event is located.

That would have affected Amtrak and Metra’s South Shore and Electric lines.

The Secret Service and Chicago Police Department have worked “to devise a plan that will allow commuter trains to run during the summit without compromising security,” Chicago Field Office Special Agent Frank Benedetto said in a statement.

But commuters on trains approaching and passing through the convention center will be in store for slowdowns because of security issues, officials said.

“Metra continues to meet with the Secret Service, Chicago police and local police agencies to share and coordinate information and develop plans for the upcoming NATO summit in Chicago,” spokesman Michael Gillis said. “Our primary focus has been and will continue to be on delivering reliable and safe transportation for our customers.”

A list of station closures will be released in the next few weeks. But anyone looking for a comprehensive list of security and transportation restrictions will have to wait until later in May, the Secret Service said.

The NATO summit is May 20 and 21. Fifty heads of state, foreign and defense ministers will be convening in Chicago from May 19 through May 21.

Thousands are expected to stage protests at the event, including a scheduled rally at Grant Park May 20.

“Metra will release additional information as it becomes available on our website and through e-alerts,” Gillis said. “We will continue to evaluate our plans as new information becomes available and advise our customers of any changes that may impact their transportation options.”