Metra adds trains to its busiest route on weekends

Metra BNSF riders seeking a weekend getaway will have significantly more trains to chose from starting in May.

The commuter railroad on Thursday announced an expansion that will boost both weekday and Saturday and Sunday service on its most popular line.

On Saturdays, Metra will add six more BNSF trains to the schedule and 16 additional trains on Sundays.

The change will mean the same number of trips both days with inbound service between 5 a.m. and noon plus 2 to 7 p.m., and outbound service between 10 a.m. and midnight.

“We continue to listen to our riders and adjust our schedules to meet their needs,” Executive Director Jim Derwinski said in a statement.

“We’re especially excited to be able to offer more weekend service so that Metra is an even better option for anyone wanting to enjoy all the events and attractions that are part of summer in Chicago.”

Here’s a look at some other specific changes effective Monday, April 29.

• On weekdays, Metra will tweak the departure times for non-rush hour local trains. That means trains after 9 a.m. will leave Aurora at 5 minutes past the hour, which will affect departure times at subsequent stations on the route.

• Three morning outbound trains will have slightly earlier departure schedules from Chicago. Train 1201 will leave at 5:33 a.m., Train 1205 will leave at 6:16 a.m. and Train 1211 will leave at 6:46 a.m.

• Also, more stops are being added for off-peak local trains at Fairview Station in Downers Grove and at the Westmont Station.

Metra had to reduce service when ridership dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic and has been gradually ramping up.

Details about the new timetables can be found at metra.com.