The rhythmic clatter of a train’s wheels. A familiar sound for River Grove Metra Station. This unassuming station holds a secret. A tragic accident forever etched in its history.
River Grove Metra Station. A seemingly ordinary commuter stop. Opened in 1946 it serves the North Central Service and Milwaukee District West Line. It’s located 11.4 miles from Chicago Union Station. It sits in zone 2 of Metra’s fare system.
In 2018 it saw an average of 333 weekday boardings. This makes it the 138th busiest of Metra’s 236 non-downtown stations. The station boasts a side platform and an island platform. Passengers can also connect to Pace buses. Route 319 and Route 331 offer convenient connections.
But River Grove’s quiet exterior belies a devastating event. In February 2004 a tragic accident occurred. A 10-year-old boy was struck by a train. Three Metra engineers were fired for safety violations. They were accused of lying about a freight train obstructing their view. The investigation revealed the freight train was miles away. The engineers’ actions were deemed a violation of safety rules designed to protect passengers.
The accident at River Grove Metra Station serves as a stark reminder. A reminder of the importance of safety and responsibility in our daily lives. Even in this seemingly quiet place. A place where trains come and go daily. A place where stories of both ordinary commutes and profound tragedy intertwine.
The station remains a vital link. A vital link connecting River Grove to the wider Chicago area. Its history continues to unfold. A history forever marked by the event of 2004. Yet River Grove Metra Station continues to serve its community. It continues to stand as a symbol of resilience. And perhaps also of our collective need for greater awareness. Greater awareness and respect for the everyday dangers and risks we sometimes face.