Indiana gives South Shore expansion $4 million boost

CHESTERTON - The South Shore commuter rail line is getting $4 million that will help extend service to the Lake County town of Dyer.

Gov. Mike Pence on Thursday signed a law that closes a Lake County tax loophole and directs the $4 million a year in savings to the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority to establish or improve public mass rail transportation systems in Lake County.

The Times of Munster reports those funds will be combined with economic development tax revenue contributed by Lake County cities and towns to create the local match needed to obtain federal funds to extend the commuter rail line eight miles to Dyer. The line runs between Chicago and South Bend.

Supporters hope the extension will bring economic development and jobs.