The Times They Are a-Changin'

Metra, the northeastern Illinois commuter rail line, has apparently changed a previous decision regarding the location of a station in Ridgefield. The location of the station in the center of the tiny community of Ridgefield has now been withdrawn by the commuter rail company.

For many months since early 2009, the 17.5 acre parcel of property located on the north side of the Union Pacific rail line was to be the location of a commuter station for Metra. Former Executive Director for Metra made the deal for the property at the location adjoining the Alexander Lumber Company.

Now Crystal Lake city officials have been informed that Metra is no longer interested in that location, and the annexation of the property which has been on Council agendas for months, was withdrawn. The property was once again listed on the agenda for annexation but was withdrawn.

West Ridgefield Road Location

As of April 2008 the location of the station was to be on what is known as west Ridgefield Road near the sports complex. That suddenly switched in early 2009 when the property owner of the originally chosen site was informed that an ongoing dialog had been taking place for sometime regarding another site.

The location of the "new" site was adjoining Alexander Lumber Company property and placed the location near the busy intersection in Ridgefield. The property was part of holdings of the former Flowerwood owners.

Work on that halted the beginning of May 2010 after Metra Executive Director Phil Pagan took his life by standing in front of a Metra commuter train. Since then, Metra has retained a new Executive Director but continued to put the annexation of the Ridgefield property on hold. Now it has been decided to withdraw the plan and undoubtedly other planning will be considered.

McHenry County College had already strongly indicated to Metra that a station closer to the College's "rear" entrance off Ridgefield Road would be beneficial for students and faculty. At the time, Metra seemed interested, but nothing further was considered.