UPDATE 05/23/25: Shermer Road Railroad Crossing has ended and the roadways are open.
Metra has informed the Village that its crews have not yet completed their work to reopen the Shermer Road railroad crossing. Originally expected to be completed by May 21, the closure is now anticipated to remain in place through Tuesday, May 27.
Why the Closure is Necessary
Metra has indicated that they have observed defects at the crossing, which have been closely monitored. Although these defects have not yet made the crossing unusable, they are approaching a point where action is required to prevent further deterioration. To ensure safety and maintain reliable operations, Metra will be performing repairs and rehabilitation of the crossing.
As crews were completing repairs, Metra addressed a potential tripping hazard, which required a reset of the signal system. This includes a Positive Train Control (PTC) update to the CAD system, a federal safety requirement that must be completed before reopening. Construction will be completed on May 21, but the crossing must remain closed until the system update is finalized. Businesses in the area remain open. We appreciate your patience as Metra works to reopen the crossing safely and as soon as possible.
Closure Schedule
May 5, 2025: Installation of barricade lights and information boards.
May 12, 2025: Road closure begins at 8:30 a.m. with saw-cutting of the road surface.
May 13-14, 2025: Removal of rubber and asphalt, debris loading, and PVC pipe installation.
May 15, 2025: Continued debris loading and signal work.
May 16-18, 2025: Track panel removal and installation.
May 19, 2025: Installation of full-depth concrete panels.
May 20, 2025: Asphalt paving of the roadway.
May 21, 2025: Road striping and reopening. EXTENDED
For the full Metra notification flyer from the Village, please click here.
Current Metra Project on Techny
A Metra project at Techny Road between Waukegan and Shermer Roads is currently underway, with work nearing completion. This portion of Techny Road is anticipated to reopen within the next 24-48 hours.
Detour Route Information
Motorists should be aware that Shermer Road will be fully closed at the crossing for the duration of the project. A clearly marked detour will direct traffic as follows:
Shermer Road to Walter Avenue
Walters Avenue to Pfingsten Road
Pfingsten Road to Dundee Road
Dundee Road to Waukegan Road
Waukegan Road to Shermer Road
Pedestrians should follow the alternative routes shown below until the work is complete. Alternate routes include going south and crossing at the Train Station or going north and using the Cherry Lane Underpass. Work is expected to be complete by May 21, 2025.
Impact on Local Businesses and Residents
Businesses in the Central Business District will remain open and accessible throughout the project. Pedestrians and cyclists should note that sidewalks and bike lanes at the crossing will also be closed during this period.
The 2025 Downtown Project, aimed at enhancing sidewalks, providing space for additional outdoor dining, and improving overall downtown beautification, is also underway. This additional Metra work will not delay the streetscape project, which is still expected to be nearly complete by the end of May 2025.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as Metra completes these essential repairs. For any questions regarding the closure or repairs, please contact Katelyn Dote, Metra’s Senior Legislative & Community Affairs Liaison, at kdote@METRARR.COM or 312-322-6783.