Metra Yard Electric Upgrade

Client: Metra
Location: Chicago, IL
Completion Date: 2022

John Burns was selected in spring 2020 to perform critical electrical infrastructure upgrades at Metra’s 47th Street Yard. This project included the installation of new 15kV switchgear and power ductbanks to support operations at the north end of the yard. In addition to upgrading yard power, the team installed a new traction power substation and wayside power boxes to provide hotel power for cleaning and maintenance crews. John Burns self-performed the installation of conduits and cabling for the upgraded electrical power supply. All work was performed in an active rail maintenance yard, requiring continuous coordination with yard operations and maintenance staff to ensure safe train movement and uninterrupted service.

• Installed new 15kV switchgear
• Installed four wayside power boxes
• Installed new traction power substation
• Installed four backup power transformers for the maintenance yard
• Installed conduit and wiring to support all new systems