Elmhurst, IL – Drivers in Elmhurst are facing significant traffic delays Monday afternoon after a Union Pacific freight train became disabled and blocked several key railroad crossings across the city.
According to the Elmhurst Police Department, two freight cars traveling on a Union Pacific Railroad train became decoupled around 12:45 p.m. Monday, causing the train to stop and block the West Avenue railroad crossing. The disruption quickly expanded to other nearby crossings as the train remained stationary.
Police said railroad crossings at Myrtle Avenue, Prospect Avenue/Maple Avenue, and Addison Street/Cottage Hill Avenue are also blocked by the stopped freight train. The closures are affecting north-south travel through central Elmhurst and surrounding neighborhoods.
Union Pacific Railroad crews have been notified and are responding to address the issue. No estimated time has been provided for when the crossings will reopen.
Motorists are being asked to avoid the affected areas and use Illinois Route 83, York Street, or Palmer Drive as alternative routes to cross the railroad tracks. Drivers should also expect increased congestion on nearby arterial roads as traffic is diverted.
The incident is impacting afternoon travel across Elmhurst in DuPage County, particularly for residents commuting through the city or heading toward nearby suburbs in the western Chicago metro area.
Police urge drivers to remain patient, follow posted detours, and avoid blocking intersections near the crossings while crews work to resolve the situation.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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